Chile travel guide

Chile FAQs

• Is Chile safe to visit right now?

  Absolutely yes. Like anywhere in the world there is always the chance of petty theft, but trekking in Patagonia is very safe in both Argentina and Chile.
  

• Do British citizens need a visa for Chile?

  UK passport holders do not require a visa to enter Chile. On arrival you will be granted a maximum 90 day stay in the country. On arrival in Chile the immigration authorities will issue you with a 'Tarjeta de Turismo - Tourist Card'.
  

• Is Chile open for travel now?

  As of 9 May 2023, no Covid-19 related restrictions or requirements apply to travellers entering Chile. Proof of Health Insurance is no longer required.
  

• Which airport do you fly into for Patagonia?

  For those taking on the W or O treks, we will pick you up from Puerto Natales Airport (code PNT) in Chile. If you are taking on our longer Peaks of Patagonia tour, then you will need to fly to El Calafate (code FTE). For our Ultimate Patagonia tour you will start your trip in Buenos Aires with a night spent in Argentina's vibrant capital.
  

• When is the best time of year to go to Chile?

  The best time to visit Patagonia is during the summer months of December to February. At this time, you can expect daytime temperatures between 6 °C and 20 °C. Night time temperatures could go as low as 0°C.
  

  The more northern parts of Chile stay warm throughout the year so they are a good option when Patagonia is under snow. 
  

• Is Chile expensive?

  In comparison to other South American countries Chile is quite expensive. However, if you are happy avoiding the posh restaurants and eating in the same places as the locals using set lunch menus you will find prices aren't too bad. Transport is also relatively inexpensive. 
  

• How much does a trip to Patagonia cost?

  This really depends on what you want to do while you are in the region. The refuges and campsites can be expensive so it is a good idea to join a group and share the costs. Take a good look at what is included in the price of your trip.  On our Ultimate Patagonia trip we include accommodation in Buenos Aires at the start and end of your tour as well as domestic flights to Ushuaia and loads of other experiences such as boat trips, city tours, airport transfers and meals.  These make this trip more expensive than the likes of our O and W Treks which are predominantly trekking trips. However we think the important thing is to look for value for money, not just the lowest price. 
  

• How long does it take to hike Patagonia?

  Patagonia is a huge region that covers parts of Argentina and Chile, how much time you need really depends on what you want to see and do. Our Peaks of Patagonia trip is 15 days and includes the big, iconic trekking routes in Torres del Paine and the Fitz Roy region. Our O Trek is shorter, taking 10 days and completing another famous route in the Torres del Paine area. Our W Trek is the shortest route we offer, a 6 day trip in total, which makes it a perfect inclusion to a longer trip. 
  

• What do I need to know before travelling to Chile?

  • Chilean Spanish and taught Spanish are two very different languages. 
    
  • You don't need a visa to travel to Chile from the UK or the US.
    
  • Chile is an extremely long, narrow country so it can take a while to get between locations. 
    
  • It lies over a tectonic hot zone and therefore earthquakes are common in Chile. 
    
  • Mealtimes are later, particularly evening meals, as Chileans enjoy embracing a late night.  
    

• How many days should you spend in Chile?

  A minimum of a week is really necessary to be able to experience some of the wonders Chile has to offer. If time isn't a constraint then indulge in two weeks or a month for a full Chilean cultural tour.