Climate
A land of extremes - the Chilean climate varies greatly according to altitude and latitude. The north of the country lies in the tropical zone but is an arid desert. The central valley has a Mediterranean climate of hot dry summers and mild wet winters. The lake district’s temperate climate resembles that of the UK, while further south it rains almost every day in winter. The climate in the far south (Patagonia) varies on a daily basis, it is usually cool and windy all year round but seldom does the temperature fall below freezing point.
Below are two graphs showing average 24-hour temperature and rainfall for Santiago, Antofogasta in the north, Punta Arenas in the south and London for comparison.
Average 24-hour Temperature (in oC)
Average Rainfall (in mm)
Festivals & Holidays
Most of Chile’s festivals and holidays derive from Catholicism, tempered by the influences of pre-Colombian cults and rituals. In central Chile there is a strong colonial flavour to the celebrations. In the south, the culture of the dwindling Mapuche ethnic communities introduces a mythical content with magic and faith-healing.
In the countryside you may well come across a rodeo, featuring Chilean huasos (cowboys) renowned for their performance of the cueca, Chile’s national dance.
Currency
The local currency is the Chilean peso. Current exchange rates are available via Google currency conversion or the OANDA currency converter. It’s not advisable to try to acquire Latin American currency before travelling, if a currency is available in high street banks or exchange outlets the exchange rate is usually very poor. You can change US dollar cash or travellers checks locally and obtain cash advances via ATMs in most towns and cities. We’d advise that you tell your bank you intend to use your card abroad before you set off.
Visas
British citizens can find up-to-date information on the Foreign & Commonwealth Office website. Citizens of other countries should consult their embassy or the Chilean Embassy in London before travel.
Vaccinations
We recommend that you always check with your own travel clinic or health professional before you travel, for advice specific to your requirements. The NHS Fit For Travel website contains for up-to-date health advice and lists the common vaccinations for travellers to Chile.