Emergency
Dial 133 for police, 131 for medical assistance, or 132 for firefighters in any urgent or critical situation, to ensure immediate professional help.
Dial 133 for police, 131 for medical assistance, or 132 for firefighters in any urgent or critical situation, to ensure immediate professional help.
Chileans are night owls, with dinner typically starting around 8-10 PM and social gatherings often lasting until the early hours, especially on weekends.
The next public holiday in Chile is New Year's Day on January 1, 2025, celebrated with family gatherings, festive meals, and traditional customs.
Tap water is safe to drink in most areas, but not commonly ordered in restaurants. Bottled water is more common, though it can be requested.
Homeurbano offers medium- and long-term apartment rentals in major cities, catering to travelers and locals with flexible options.
Toilet paper is used and can usually be flushed, but in some areas of Chile, it’s advised to dispose of it in a bin due to plumbing limitations.
It is generally safe for tourists, with efficient law enforcement and a focus on safety. Visitors should be cautious in crowded areas like transport, markets, and festivals to avoid theft.
Chilean cuisine is a mix of fresh seafood, meats, and local produce, with dishes like pastel de choclo, empanadas, and curanto, reflecting indigenous, Spanish, and immigrant influences.
A tourist asks: "What’s your favorite food?" Local: "Chilean empanadas!" Tourist: "I love those! What’s inside?" Local: "We fill them with anything we can find in the fridge."
In Santiago, the public transport system includes the metro, buses, and trams. The Bip! card is used for travel, and contactless payments are also accepted on the metro.
Santiago TransportIn Chile, the two main intercity bus operators are Turbus, known for its vast nationwide network, and Pullman Bus, praised for its comfort and reliable connections to key cities.
TurbusChile's train network, operated by EFE, connects cities like Santiago, Valparaíso, and Concepción, offering regional and suburban services, with modernization ongoing.
EFEThe Atacama Desert is one of the best places in the world for stargazing due to its clear skies and minimal light. It's home to several international observatories.
Easter Island (Rapa Nui) is famous for its large Moai statues, carved by ancient inhabitants. These statues are a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Chilean Patagonia features stunning landscapes, including glaciers, fjords, and Torres del Paine National Park, a beautiful trekking destination.
Home to several penguin species, including the Humboldt and Magellanic penguins, which can be found along its coasts and southern islands.
Family is central to Chilean society, with close bonds between relatives and frequent gatherings, particularly on Sundays for shared meals.
Asado (barbecue) is an important social event in Chile. Friends and family gather, spending hours around the grill, sharing food, conversation, and laughter.