Chile travel guide for Britons

UK passport holders do not need a visa for tourism, business or transit stays of up to 90 days.

The passport must be valid for at least six months after the intended departure date.

Immigration officers may ask for a return or onward ticket and evidence of sufficient funds (≈ £50 per day).

If you plan to stay longer than 90 days, work, study or volunteer, apply for the appropriate visa at the Chilean consulate before travel.

The United Kingdom’s diplomatic mission is in Santiago:

British Embassy Santiago

Avenida Los Leones 1005, Piso 12, Las Condes, Santiago

Phone: +56 2 2367 2000

Emergency consular assistance: +56 2 2367 2000 (24 h).

A two‑week itinerary (Santiago, Atacama, Patagonia) for a mid‑range traveller typically costs:

- Flights from London to Santiago (return): £800‑£1 200

- Domestic flights (Santiago‑Calama, Santiago‑Punta Arenas): £150‑£250 each

- Accommodation (mid‑range hotels/hostels): £50‑£80 per night

- Meals: £20‑£35 per day

- Transport (buses, taxis, car hire): £150‑£250 total

- Park entry fees (e.g., Torres del Paine): £30‑£45

Overall budget: £2 500‑£3 500 per person (check for seasonal variations).

Direct flights London‑Santiago take about 14 hours.

Chile is UTC‑4 (mainland) year‑round; during Chilean summer (Dec‑Feb) some regions observe UTC‑3.

Use the flight‑time planner tool for exact connections from your home city.

Chile uses Type C (Europlug) and Type L (Italian) sockets, 220 V 50 Hz.

UK travellers should bring a dual‑voltage plug adapter; most modern chargers handle 220 V.

A 10 % service charge is common on restaurant bills; if not included, leave 10 % in cash.

Tips for hotel staff, guides and drivers are optional but appreciated (≈ £1‑£2 per service).

Police (Carabineros): 133

Fire: 132

Medical ambulance: 131