Things You Must Know Before Heading to Chile

You might only know Chile as a thin country in South America. The truth is this place has a lot more to offer. From the Easter Island to its national parks, Chile is definitely a country you need to see in person. Before planning your trip, here are a few things you need to know.

It’s quite pricey

Traveling to South America is generally cheap due to the low cost of living. It’s quite different with Chile since it is a bit pricey. It’s more like a developed country and has the most “Europe-like” features of the South American countries. While price can be a downside, you will get what you deserve when you’re there.

It’s generally safe

Safety might be a concern when you’re heading to countries like Venezuela, but it’s not an issue in Chile. You will also find touristy places with crowds from around the world. Whether you’re at the heart of big cities like Santiago or up the breathtaking mountains, safety won’t be a concern.

Some outdoor adventures can be hard

You might be excited to try skiing or hiking in Chile. You can’t be faulted for feeling that way since the pictures alone will give you that level of excitement. However, you must realize it’s not easy to try these activities. In some instances, you have to train for weeks before getting started. You don’t want to be injured due to the lack of preparation.

Be prepared for long trips

If you intend to see the entire country, get ready for long trips. The entire country is approximately 2,700 miles and is the longest country in the world. Some flights might take almost four hours. Road trips are even longer and more treacherous. If you wish to see different locations, prepare yourself.

Border crossing can be tricky

Argentina and Chile share a really long border. In some areas, it’s easy to move from one country to another. There are a few challenges, though, since some immigration checkpoints are several miles away. Determine how you’re going to cross the border if you intend to do so to prevent delays.

Speaking Spanish might not be enough

If you know a few Spanish words, you might be in for a surprise. Chileans have a “special” version of the language and they might say some words differently. It still helps if you have basic understanding of Spanish to facilitate your transactions.

Chileans are warm and hospitable

Tourism plays a huge role in Chilean economy. Therefore, people are used to having foreigners around. It’s another reason to be confident about your trip. You will be welcomed wherever you go. Of course, you still need a bit of precaution just like your travel to any other country.

Now that you understand what it takes to visit Chile, it’s time to organize your trip. Make sure you deal with all the details and you will feel satisfied with the results. You may also return for another trip since there are more places worth exploring.

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1^st and featured image from https://www.howlanders.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/informacion-general-chile.jpg

2^nd image from https://www.enchantingtravels.com/destinations/south-america/chile/chile-travel-guide/