Find Cheap Flights to Chile and Book Your Next Adventure

Summer is the high season, ideal for exploring Patagonia and visiting coastal cities. Flights to Chile in December and January tend to be more expensive.

Autumn brings mild temperatures and vibrant colors, making it an excellent time to visit vineyards and cities. Flight deals to Chile start to appear.

Winter is the low season, except in ski areas. It is the best time to find flights from Portugal to Chile at lower prices and enjoy the snow.

Spring is a fantastic time, with the weather warming up and nature blooming, especially in the north. It is a good time to find flight promotions to Chile.

Portuguese citizens traveling to Chile for tourism for a period of less than 90 days do not need a visa. A passport valid for at least six months after the date of entry is required. Upon arrival, you will receive a tourist card (Tarjeta de Turismo), which you must keep until you leave the country. Always keep a copy of your travel documents with you.

Chile is a long country, and internal transportation varies greatly. For long distances, domestic flights are the fastest option, connecting Santiago to cities like Puerto Montt and Punta Arenas. Long-distance buses are comfortable, reliable, and economical, ideal for traveling between central cities. In Santiago, the subway is efficient and easy to use. For taxis, use transport apps or official taxis, especially at airports, to avoid issues. Renting a car is great for exploring remote regions, such as Patagonia, but be prepared for challenging roads.

Chile offers a wide range of accommodations. In Santiago and larger cities, you can find luxury hotels, international chains, and modern hostels. In rural and tourist areas, such as the Atacama Desert or Patagonia, options include 'cabañas' (cabins/cottages) and 'hospedajes' (family-run accommodations), which offer a more local and welcoming experience. Book in advance, especially during high season (December to February) and in locations with limited capacity, such as Easter Island. Consider staying near subway stations in Santiago for easy access to tourist spots.

Chile is generally safe, but caution is needed, especially in busy areas of Santiago and Valparaíso. Be aware of pickpockets on public transport and in markets. Avoid displaying valuables. In case of emergency, call 133 (police). Unlike Portugal, where card payment is the norm, always carry some cash (Chilean pesos) for small purchases and taxis. Do not accept help from strangers at ATMs. When walking at night, stick to well-lit and busy streets. Pay attention to protests, which may occur in Santiago; avoid areas with large crowds.

Chileans are formal and polite. A handshake is common when greeting, and among close friends, a kiss on the cheek (only one) is typical. Lunch (almuerzo) is the main meal, and time spent at the table is valued. Punctuality is important, but there may be some flexibility in social settings. At dinner, it is customary to leave a 10% tip in restaurants. Using the formal address 'usted' is a sign of respect, especially with older people or strangers. Avoid talking about politics or the country's recent history unless invited to do so by a trusted local.

Chilean food is rich and varied, with a strong coastal influence. Be sure to try 'pastel de choclo' (a kind of corn pie), 'empanadas' (stuffed with meat, cheese, or seafood), and 'curanto' (a seafood and meat stew, typical of the south). Chile is famous for its wines, especially Carmenère. Try 'pisco sour', the national drink. Dinner time is typically later than in Portugal. In markets, such as the Mercado Central in Santiago, you can find fresh seafood at affordable prices. Venture beyond tourist spots to discover true Chilean cuisine.

Chile is a country of extreme contrasts. If you only have one week, focus on the central area (Santiago, Valparaíso, Vineyards). With two weeks, you can include the Atacama Desert (north) or Patagonia (south), but not both, due to the long distances. For Patagonia, allow at least five days to explore Torres del Paine. In Atacama, high-altitude tours require acclimatization. Remember that the seasons are opposite to those in Portugal: summer is from December to February. When planning, consider domestic flights to save time, as land travel is long but scenic. Planning should be flexible, especially in regions with unstable weather.

Due to the climatic diversity, your luggage must be versatile. If traveling between the north and south, bring clothing for extreme heat (Atacama) and warm, waterproof layers (Patagonia). In Santiago, casual and comfortable clothing is best. Include sunscreen and a hat, as solar radiation is strong throughout the country. Sturdy hiking boots are essential if you plan to explore national parks like Torres del Paine. Don't forget a plug adapter (Type L or C) and a good windbreaker jacket for coastal and mountainous areas. Carrying a small first-aid kit is always a good idea.