Volcanoes, deserts, glaciers, snow-topped mountains, beaches, islands — yes, it’s possible for one country to pack them all in and that country is Chile.
Chile’s popularity as a destination for gap year programs has grown consistently over the past few years.
The country offers visitors a wide variety of climates and a range of activities from skiing to wine tasting. However, the welcoming and friendly people of Chile is what makes this country a special destination.
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Chile Facts
• Capital City: Santiago
• Currency: Chilean Peso, CLP
• Language: Spanish
• Time Zone: -4 GMT
• Dialling Code: +56
• Religions Practised: Christianity (Roman Catholic and Protestant)
• Total Area: 756,950 square kilometres
• Population Size: 17224200
Practical Information
Voltage and Plug Info:
220 V.European plug with two round metal pins.
Visas:
Citizens of the USA, EU, Canada, Australia and New Zealand do not need a visa to enter but Australian, US and Canadian citizens will have to pay a ‘reciprocal’ fee in cash upon arrival.
Safety:
Pickpocketing and petty crime is common in cities but, in general, Chile is one of the safest gap year destinations in South America. As in most cities, you should be careful not to carry around items of value, especially in Santiago and the beach resorts.
Vaccinations and Health:
There are no compulsory vaccinations but many are recommended. Ensure you seek medical advice well in advance of your trip. It’s always advisable to drink bottled water, although tap water is fairly safe in most parts of the country. In case of emergency illness, the number is 131.
Best Time to Visit?
If you are hoping to visit the south, December to March are the best months weather-wise. The middle of the country is best visited between September and November (spring) or between February and April. High season is generally between December and March.
Getting There and Away
Most international, direct flights arrive at Santiago’s Aeropuerto Internacional Arturo Merino Benítez and fly from Europe, North America and Australasia. You can also fly directly from one of Chile’s neighbours. In terms of overland travel, buses link the country to most other South American nations.
Getting Around
Chile has a great infrastructure for air travel, but the shape of the country results in, often, multiple stopovers. But internal flights are however, quicker, easier and often just as affordable asbuses. Boat travel is more common in the south and buses are available all over the country but standards and prices vary so be sure to do your research. You might want to consider a combo trip to Argentina, Bolivia or Peru.
Don’t Leave Here Without…
Bobsledding, without the sled
Crampons, check. Ice axe, check. You’ve made it to the summit of Villarrica volcano – now you just have to get back to your hostel. Easy. Don a pair of waterproof trousers and slide down snow chutes on your bum.
Gaining a few pounds
There’s no avoiding it, Chileans love snacking and it usually involves pastry. Grab a vegetable-filled empanada on the go and buy sugar-loaded alfajores for long bus journeys.
Making a splash
Paddle a kayak on Lago Llanquihue in the Swiss-style Lake District (complete with Alpine lodges) or catch a wave in top surf spot Valparaíso.
Solving an archaeological riddle
How did Easter Island’s ancient inhabitants erect the huge stone statues which stand guard over this speck in the Pacific ocean? Try and solve the mystery on a trip to the baffling and beguiling wilderness. It’s expensive but you won’t regret it.
Giving your camera a workout
Clear your memory card and head to the Atacama Desert to check out the lunar landscape and vast salt flats – scene of many a perspective-skewed photograph.