Chile travel advice

Risk level

Disclaimer

The features in this map do not constitute an authoritative source of geographical information. This map is solely intended to assist Canadians by illustrating the risk levels contained in the Travel Advice and Advisories for this destination. The features in this map do not necessarily represent the views of the Canadian government on international boundaries, nomenclature or political status. The text under the Risk levels section takes precedence over this map.

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Chile travel advice

Disclaimer

The features in this map do not constitute an authoritative source of geographical information. This map is solely intended to assist Canadians by illustrating the risk levels contained in the Travel Advice and Advisories for this destination. The features in this map do not necessarily represent the views of the Canadian government on international boundaries, nomenclature or political status. The text under the Risk levels section takes precedence over this map.

Safety and security

Crime

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, bag snatching and theft from vehicles, can occur in any part of the country. However, you should remain especially vigilant in larger cities such as:

• Santiago
• Valparaíso / Viña del Mar
• Calama
• Concepción
• Villarica
• Iquique

Theft occurs frequently in:

• popular tourist areas, including lookouts
• bus and train stations and airports
• the subway in Santiago
• shopping malls
• hotel lobbies
• restaurants, including patios located near streets
• gas stations and highway service centres

These types of crimes are often carried out using distraction. Pickpockets and bag snatchers work in pairs or groups and use a variety of ruses to divert their victim’s attention. In some cases, thieves on foot work with thieves on motorcycles, “motochorros,” to snatch purses, cell phones and backpacks.

In Valparaíso and Santiago, thieves target rental cars. They puncture the tire of a vehicle, then steal items when the occupants get out to check the tire.

Another distraction technique involves spilling a substance on victims and then robbing them while pretending to help clean the stain.

During your trip:

• be suspicious of strangers approaching you, because they may attempt to distract and rob you
• do not use your cell phone while walking on the street
• keep bags and purses on your lap instead of on the table or hung on chairs
• keep your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, in a secure place
• keep a copy of your identification or passport with you
• do not carry large sums of cash
• avoid showing signs of affluence or wearing expensive jewellery

On the road:

• do not leave valuables within reach or in plain sight
• keep doors and windows closed and locked at all times
• do not leave personal belongings unattended in a vehicle, even in the trunk

Violent crime

Armed assaults and robberies have increased in recent years. Tourists have been attacked, even during the daytime. Be particularly careful and avoid walking after dark in the following areas:

• around Cerro Alegre and other cerros (hills) in Valparaíso
• in Cerro San Cristóbal park, north of Santiago
• in Santiago:
• in parks
• in the Bellavista and Barrio Lastarria neighbourhoods
• at Cerro Santa Lucia
• in common tourist areas, such as Plaza de Armas and Mercado Central

Carjackings occur, including as drivers leave their vehicles to open or close gates or wait for gates to open or close.

• Always be aware of your surroundings
• If you’re threatened, hand over your cash and valuables without resistance

Residential break-ins are becoming increasingly common, especially in larger cities when properties are unoccupied.

• Keep doors and windows closed and locked at all times

• Keep your personal belongings in a secure place

Express kidnappings

Express kidnappings, where kidnappers demand immediate ransoms, occur occasionally.

Criminals kidnap the victim from the street or a taxi and force the person to withdraw funds from an ATM or transfer funds online. The victim is sometimes held overnight so that a second withdrawal can be made the next day.

These kidnappings occur throughout the country and are often committed by organized gangs, but they can also be committed by taxi drivers.

• Only use reputable taxi companies or ride-sharing applications

• Avoid hailing taxis on the street

• If you're threatened by armed criminals, stay calm and do not resist
• Do not accept rides from new acquaintances or strangers

Araucanía and Biobío regions

There has been politically motivated violence in some parts of the Araucanía and Biobío regions of southern Chile. In 2022, the Government of Chile declared a state of emergency in the area, which is re-evaluated every 30 days.

Violent protests, barricades, looting, arson attacks and fatal shootings have occurred. Exercise caution if you’re travelling in these regions.

Terrorism

There is a threat of terrorism. Explosions of small-scale devices occasionally occur in Santiago.

Targets have included:

• transportation hubs
• churches
• corporate buildings
• businesses
• banks and ATMs

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.

Be particularly vigilant during:

• religious holidays
• public celebrations
• major political events, such as elections

Terrorists may use such occasions to mount attacks.

Demonstrations and strikes

Demonstrations and strikes occur frequently in Santiago, including at Plaza Italia, also known as Plaza Baquedano, as well as in Valparaíso and Concepción. They also occur occasionally elsewhere in the country. They may lead to:

• roadblocks
• public transportation disruptions
• confrontations with police, who sometimes use tear gas and/or water cannons

Public sector strikes also occur and can affect service availability.

Large demonstrations often take place on dates of national significance such as:

• March 29 (Day of the Young Combatant)
• May 1 (International Workers’ Day)
• September 11 (anniversary of the 1973 military coup)
• October 18 (anniversary of the 2019 civil unrest)

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Fraud

Credit and debit card as well as ATM fraud occurs.

When using your debit or credit card:

• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• pay careful attention when others are handling your cards
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
• check the amount being charged on the card reader
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Telephone scams are also frequent in Chile.

• Never provide any personal or financial information over the phone
• Never provide information about the whereabouts of your family members
• Never reply to or click on links in text messages coming from unfamiliar numbers

Overseas fraud

Women's safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment or verbal abuse.

Advice for women travellers

Spiked food, drinks and other items

Snacks, beverages, gum and cigarettes may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

• Be wary of accepting these items from new acquaintances
• Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers
• Pay attention when drinks are prepared and served, especially in tourist neighbourhoods such as Santiago’s Bellavista and Suecia neighbourhoods

Adventure travel

Outdoor activities, such as volcano tours, desert expeditions, water activities, hiking, and mountain biking, can be dangerous. Trails are not always marked and weather conditions can change rapidly, regardless of the season.

Safety features in vehicles and on small boats used in river and lake excursions are not always reliable.

If you intend to participate in adventure travel activities:

• share your itinerary with a friend or family member if you’re alone
• use a registered tour/expedition company
• buy travel insurance that covers incidents related to these types of recreational activities and includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
• avoid venturing off marked trails
• ensure that you’re adequately equipped and bring sufficient water
• monitor weather conditions and other possible hazards
• know the symptoms of acute altitude sickness, dehydration and heatstroke, which can be fatal

For outdoor activities along the borders with Argentina, Bolivia or Peru, you must register with Chile’s National Department of State Borders and Boundaries (DIFROL).

Useful links

• Adventure travel health and safety
• Parks and wilderness areas – National Forest Corporation (CONAF) (Spanish only)
• Local weather forecast – Chilean Meteorological Service (Spanish only)
• Advice for trekking and mountaineering – Ministry of the Interior and Public Safety (Spanish only)
• Outdoor activities in border areas – DIFROL

Landmines

Marked minefields pose a risk in remote areas bordering the following countries:

• Argentina
• Bolivia
• Peru

If you’re travelling to remote border areas:

• stay on main roads and paved surfaces
• avoid fields, roadside ditches, shoulders and unmarked trails
• cross only at official border crossings
• pay attention to signs indicating the possible presence of landmines

Land border posts with Argentina

Due to weather conditions impacting road safety, authorities regularly close land border posts with Argentina during the winter, from June to September.

• Stay informed of regional weather forecasts
• Plan accordingly
• Follow the instructions of local authorities

Border crossings – Ministry of the Interior (Spanish only)

Roads

Road safety

Road safety may vary considerably across the country.

Accidents, particularly in Santiago, are common.

Road conditions

Road conditions in urban areas are generally very good. However, driving on some secondary roads or in mountainous areas can be dangerous due to:

• insufficient lighting
• lack of guardrails
• poor maintenance
• difficult winter weather conditions
• strong side winds
• unpaved roads

Driving habits

Drivers are often reckless or aggressive, and the road laws are different from those in Canada.

You should drive defensively if you’re driving in Chile.

Public transportation

There has been an increase in recent years of criminal groups targeting tourists using public transportation. They use the ploy of distracting their victims and then taking their belongings on buses and the metro, and at bus stations and airports.

Tourists travelling on intercity buses, especially from Calama to Antofagasta, San Pedro de Atacama or Santiago, have been robbed while sleeping.

• Always be vigilant and take extra care when using public transportation
• Watch your bags at all times while waiting for transportation
• Always carry your valuables and identification with you and avoid storing them in overhead compartments on buses and trains

Taxis

Credit card fraud has happened in unauthorized taxis, particularly at airports. Drivers may pretend to be driving official taxis and charge excessive amounts, sometimes without customers' knowledge. This is done by adding extra digits to the fare or presenting a card reader without a readable display.

When using a taxi from the airport:

• book and prepay for your taxi at an official stand inside the terminal
• beware of people posing as taxi drivers, especially near the terminal exit
• board taxis only in designated areas
• check the amount on the card reader before inserting or tapping your payment card

In cities:

• book a taxi in advance rather than hailing one on the street, especially late in the evening
• never share a taxi with strangers
• avoid using taxis that don’t have a meter
• agree on the fare with the driver before you get in to avoid overcharging

Travelling safely in taxis and buses – Government of Chile (Spanish only)

Travel recommendations

Chile’s national tourism service provides information and safety tips for travellers visiting the country.

Recommendations for travel in Chile – National Tourism Service of Chile

Air travel

We don't make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Entry and exit requirements

The authorities of a country or territory decide who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from Chilean authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.

Chile has strict entry and exit requirements, especially for dual citizens and children.

Passport

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you're travelling with.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country's entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay in Chile.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, verify this information with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

You should also be aware that current systems used by some countries and travel companies may not recognize the “X” gender identifier. You may still be asked to provide your sex/gender information as either male or female when travelling.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, verify this information with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics
• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports and other travel documents

Visas

Tourist visa: not required
Business visa: not required
Student visa: required
Work visa: required

Other entry requirements

The Chilean government requires visitors to have at least $46 USD per day available to cover their expenses during their trip. Customs officials may ask you to show them proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.

Temporary stays – Government of Chile (Spanish only)

Tourist card

You will receive a tourist card upon arrival. The card is valid for a maximum period of 90 days.

You must keep the card and present it to immigration officers upon departure from the country. Failure to do so may result in delays.

Replacing a tourist card

If your card is lost or stolen, you may obtain a new one online.

Alternatively, you may go, well in advance of departure:

• to a special police unit (Jefatura Nacional de Migración y Policia Internacional) in Santiago
• to the nearest office of the Police Investigations Service outside Santiago

Useful links

• Migrations and International Police – Investigations Police of Chile (Spanish only)
• Replacing a tourist card – Police Investigations Service (Spanish only)

Extension of stay

You can request an extension of stay for up to 90 days online. You must do so before your current tourist card’s expiration date. A fee applies.

If you stay in Chile for longer than the allowed period, you will have to pay a fine at the Chilean immigration office before you can leave the country.

Useful links

• Migrations Chile – National Migration Service
• Portal for digital processes – National Migration Service (Spanish only)

Easter Island

Stays on Easter Island (Rapa Nui) are limited to 30 consecutive days for all travellers, including Chileans who reside on the mainland. To board a flight and upon arrival on the island, you will have to show:

• a round-trip ticket
• a passport valid for the duration of the stay
• proof of reservation of an accommodation authorized by local authorities

You’ll also have to complete the Rapa Nui Entry Form.

Useful links

• Travelling requirements – Government of Chile
• Rapa Nui Entry Form – Government of Chile

Dual citizenship

Canadian-Chilean dual citizens residing in Chile must enter and depart the country using their Chilean passport.

Canadian-Chilean dual citizens travelling to Chile on their Canadian passport must request an extension of stay if they decide to stay longer than 90 days. They may have to depart the country on a Chilean passport if they fail to do so.

Children and travel

Chile has strict requirements for the entry and exit of persons under the age of 18, including special documentation. Children travelling with only one parent, with a guardian or alone, are required to carry:

• a notarized, apostilled and translated letter of authorization from the other parent or a court
• the child’s apostilled long-form birth certificate

For more information on these requirements, contact the nearest Chilean embassy or consulate before travelling to Chile. If you’re already in Chile, contact a local Chilean notary public.

Useful links

• Children and travel
• Entry and exit of minors from the country – Minstry of Foreign Affairs (in Spanish only)
• Authentication of documents

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Health

Routine vaccines

Make sure your routine vaccinations are up-to-date before you travel, no matter where you’re going.

These may include vaccines for measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), polio, varicella (chickenpox), meningococcal disease, seasonal flu, and others.

Provincial and Territorial Immunization Information

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

When travelling in this destination, you might be at risk for diseases that can be prevented with vaccines or medications. Talk to a travel health care provider about which ones are right for you based on your travel plans.

The highlights below will also tell you if your destination may require that vaccine for entering or exiting.

Safe food and water precautions

Eating or drinking unsafe food or water, or swimming in contaminated water can make you sick while travelling. Take precautions by following these tips:

• Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it (only eat food that is prepared safely)
• Avoid, if possible, getting water in your eyes, mouth, or nose when swimming in freshwater (like streams, lakes, or canals), especially after heavy rain or flooding - the water might look clean but can still be contaminated 
• Don’t swallow water when bathing, showering, swimming in pools, or using hot tubs 

Eat and drink safely abroad

Tick and insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by bites from infected ticks and insects like mosquitoes, fleas, or flies. Before you travel, find out what types of ticks or insects are in the area, when they’re most active, and what diseases they can spread.

To protect yourself from bites:

• use an approved bug spray (insect repellent) on exposed skin
• wear light-coloured, loose clothing made of tightly woven materials like nylon or polyester
• wear socks and closed-toe shoes
• sleep under mosquito netting if you’re outdoors or staying in places that aren’t fully enclosed
• do a full body tick check on yourself, your children, your gear, and any pets you’re travelling with when you return from outdoor activities

Insect bite and pest prevention
Personal insect repellents

Animal precautions

Some infections can spread directly from animals to people, like rabies or bird flu (avian influenza). Others don’t spread directly from animals but can infect people who visit areas animals have contaminated with their droppings or body fluids.

Certain activities can increase your chances of coming into contact with animals, their droppings, or their body fluids, like:

• travelling in rural or forested areas
• camping, hiking, or visiting caves
• visiting places where live animals are sold or killed for food, like wet markets

To reduce your risk of getting sick:

• avoid contact with animals like stray dogs, livestock (such as pigs and cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats.
• stay away from places where animal waste can build up, such as caves
• avoid eating undercooked meat

Make sure to closely watch children; they are more likely to try to touch animals.

Person-to-person infections

When travelling, you can reduce your risk of getting or spreading respiratory infections, like the flu or COVID-19, by:

• staying at your accommodation and limiting contact with others if you’re sick
• wearing a well-fitting mask, especially: 
  
  • if you’re sick and need to be around others 
  • when you’re at large indoor events or in crowded settings, like sporting events, concerts, and airports
• cleaning your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or using hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol
• covering your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow, not your hands

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)
Clean your hands to help reduce the spread of infectious diseases
Respiratory infectious diseases: How to reduce the spread with personal protective measures

To lower your risk of getting sexually transmissible infections (STIs), HIV, and mpox, you can:

• get vaccinated against mpox if you’re eligible
• practise safer sex methods
  • use barrier protection during sexual activity, like condoms and dental dams.

Mpox vaccines
Sexual health and travel
HIV and AIDS: Travel health advice

Medical services and facilities

Health care in Chile is good, especially at private facilities. Service is widely available in Santiago and other major cities but can be very limited in remote areas.

Treatment at private clinics and hospitals is expensive. Most doctors and smaller hospitals typically require advance payment.

If you have a pre-existing health condition, carry an up-to-date medical report from a Canadian physician for reference.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Health and safety outside Canada

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

Laws and culture

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.

Drugs

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.

• Pack your own luggage and monitor it closely at all times
• Never transport other people’s packages, bags or suitcases

Drugs, alcohol and travel

National parks

Protected areas of national parks are safeguarded by Chilean legislation. Penalties for violations can be severe, especially in the case of fires.

Open fires are strictly forbidden in national parks outside permitted camping areas. This includes burners for cooking purposes.

Local authorities may revoke your tourist card if you’re caught starting a fire illegally. They may ask you to depart Chile within 72 hours or you may be subjected to deportation proceedings. You may also face detention and heavy fines if the open fire results in a forest fire.

• Respect protected areas, even if there are no warnings or signs to this effect
• Ensure you have a good understanding of local rules and regulations before entering national parks

National Forest Corporation (CONAF) (Spanish only)

Heritage sites

Heritage areas are safeguarded by Chilean legislation. Penalties for violations can be severe, from payment of a fine to imprisonment. If you are detained for breaching the rules of a heritage site, local authorities may prevent you from leaving the country during the investigation.

• Ensure you have a good understanding of local site rules and regulations
• Don’t alter landmarks in any way

Importation of agricultural products

Chile imposes severe restrictions on the importation of agricultural products, such as food and animal products.

Make sure to declare all agriculture items on your customs form when entering Chile, including packaged products, or you may face detention and heavy fines. You can also complete a Digital Affidavit for Entry to Chile before arrival.

Useful links

• Chilean customs regulations – National Customs Service (Spanish only)
• Digital Affidavit for Entry to Chile – Agriculture and Livestock Service (Spanish only)

Driving

You can drive with your valid Canadian driver’s licence for up to 90 days. However, you should still carry an international driving permit. If you’re a resident of Chile, you must apply for a Chilean driver’s licence from the municipality in which you live.

The country has a zero-tolerance policy for drinking and driving. Penalties include:

• licence suspension
• fines
• detention

Right turns at red lights are prohibited, unless otherwise posted.

Some car rental companies may not allow for international trips. If you intend to travel outside the country in a rental vehicle:

• make sure the rental company allows it before making your reservation
• request written authorization from the car rental company 3 to 5 days before your trip

International Driving Permit

Insurance

Some insurance companies might not cover pickup truck rentals or have exclusions related to damage caused on unpaved roads.

There is no car insurance available on Easter Island. In case of accident or damage to your rented vehicle, you will have to pay for the repairs yourself.

Restrictions in Santiago

To combat high levels of pollution in the winter, restrictions on driving in central Santiago, within the Américo Vespucio ring road, are in place from May to September.

Vehicles with a green seal registered before September 1, 2011, are subject to a daily restriction based on the last two digits of the licence plate. When there is an alert, restrictions are in effect from Monday to Friday between 7:30 am and 9 pm.

If a pre-emergency or environmental emergency is decreed, additional digits could be restricted.

You can check the list of affected plate numbers in newspapers and online.

Vehicle restrictions – Ministry of Transport and Telecommunications (Spanish only)

Political activities

Chilean law prohibits political activities by foreigners. Participating in demonstrations or promoting dissent, including on social media, may result in you being detained and/or deported.

2SLGBTQI+ persons

Chilean law does not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex.

While homosexuality is generally tolerated, Chilean society remains fairly conservative. 2SLGBTQI+ persons could be discriminated against based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or sex characteristics.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Chile.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Chile, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements.

Dual citizens

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Chile.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Chile, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Chilean court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Chile to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

Useful links

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• Children and travel
• The Hague Convention – Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

Money

The currency of Chile is the Chilean peso (CLP).

Some small restaurants and stores outside Santiago may not accept credit cards.

U.S. dollars are easily exchanged at banks and official foreign exchange bureaus across the country. However, purchases in U.S. dollars can only be made in certain stores in Santiago.

Natural disasters and climate

Chile is subject to various natural disasters such as:

• volcanic eruptions
• earthquakes and tsunamis
• torrential rains, floods and mudslides
• wildfires
• coastal swells
• tornadoes

Border crossings can close due to severe weather conditions.

Useful links

• Latest alerts – National Service for Prevention and Response to Natural Disasters (SENAPRED) (Spanish only)
• Border crossings – Ministry of the Interior (Spanish only)

Volcanoes

There are 500 active volcanoes in Chile. Local authorities closely monitor the following volcanoes:

• Villarica
• Osorno
• Llaima
• Calbuco
• Grupo Descabezados

Debris from erupting volcanoes can clog rivers and cause them to overflow, resulting in flash floods and landslides. Ash clouds may also cause disruptions to domestic and international flights.

If you’re travelling near active volcanoes:

• monitor levels of volcanic activity through the local media
• pay careful attention to all warnings issued
• follow the instructions of local authorities
• be prepared to modify your travel arrangements or even evacuate the area on short notice

Useful links

• Volcano alerts – National Geology and Mining Service (Spanish only)
• Volcanic eruptions – National Service for Disaster Prevention and Response (SENAPRED)

Earthquakes and tsunamis

Chile is located in a very active seismic zone. Earthquakes and tsunamis can occur anywhere throughout the country.

A tsunami can occur within minutes of a nearby earthquake. However, the risk of a tsunami can remain for several hours following the first tremor. If you're staying on the coast, familiarize yourself with the region's evacuation plans in the event of a tsunami warning.

In the event of an earthquake or tsunami:

• monitor local media for the latest information
• follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders

Useful links

• Earthquakes – National Service for Disaster Prevention and Response (SENAPRED)
• Latest alerts – National Service for Disaster Prevention and Response (SENAPRED) (Spanish only)
• Latest earthquakes – U.S. Geological Survey
• Tsunami alerts – U.S. Tsunami Warning System

Torrential rains, flooding and mudslides

Flooding is frequent during the fall and the winter, especially between May and August. It occurs throughout the country, mainly as a result of heavy rains and overloaded sewage systems. Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged.

Flooding from rising river levels after heavy rain can cause injuries and deaths.

Avoid riverside accommodations, especially in central and southern Chile, because dry riverbeds swell rapidly.

Useful links

• Winter – National Service for Disaster Prevention and Response (SENAPRED)
• Floods – National Service for Disaster Prevention and Response (SENAPRED)
• Mudflows – National Service for Disaster Prevention and Response (SENAPRED)

Coastal swells

Dangerous waves caused by large ocean swells occur along the Chilean coast. Large waves carrying rocks and other debris can occur without warning and even when the weather is clear.

If you plan to travel near the coast:

• monitor local swell reports
• exercise caution in coastal and rocky areas
• do not enter the ocean or engage in water activities when swell warnings are in force

Useful links

• Marine forecasts – Chilean Navy Weather Service (some information in Spanish only)
• Sea surges – National Service for Disaster Prevention and Response (SENAPRED)

Wildfires

Bush and forest fires are common during the summer months, from December to March. They can happen anywhere, but they usually occur between Santiago and Valparaíso, and in Magallanes.

Heavy smoke may deteriorate the air quality in areas near active fires.

In case of a major fire:

• stay away from affected areas, particularly if you suffer from respiratory ailments
• monitor local media for the latest information
• follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders

Useful links

• Current situation and fire forecast – National Forest Corporation (CONAF) (Spanish only)
• Latest alerts – National Service for Disaster Prevention and Response (SENAPRED) (Spanish only)
• Wildfires – National Service for Disaster Prevention and Response (SENAPRED)

Air pollution

Santiago is one of the most polluted cities in South America. Heavy smog can pose serious health hazards from May to October.

The ozone layer is especially thin over parts of Chile.

Take precautions to protect yourself from sunburn and avoid going outdoors when the pollution levels are high.

Useful links

• Regional UV index – University of Santiago (Spanish only)
• National Air Quality Information System – Ministry of the Environment (Spanish only)