Chile : Safety by City
Chile stretches along the western edge of South America, spanning over 2,600 miles from the Atacama Desert in the north to the windswept fjords of Patagonia in the south.
Bordered by the Pacific Ocean and the Andes Mountains, this long, narrow country offers an incredible range of landscapes, climates, and cultural experiences.
Its history is shaped by Indigenous civilizations, Spanish colonization, and 20th-century political upheaval.
The Mapuche, one of South America’s most resilient Indigenous groups, resisted European rule for centuries.
Chile gained independence from Spain in 1818 and later endured a military dictatorship under Augusto Pinochet (1973–1990).
Today, it’s a stable democracy with a strong economy.
Nature is one of Chile’s biggest draws.
Tourist numbers are increasing, with five million people arriving in 2024.
The Atacama Desert, one of the driest places on Earth, is famous for surreal landscapes, salt flats, and world-class stargazing.
Central Chile is home to Santiago, a bustling capital framed by the Andes, along with coastal cities like Valparaíso, known for its colorful hills and artistic vibe.
The Lake District offers volcanoes, forests, and adventure sports, while Patagonia stuns with glaciers, jagged peaks, and the famous Torres del Paine National Park.
Most visitors start in Santiago before branching out.
The north appeals to desert explorers, the central region is perfect for wine lovers, and Patagonia attracts trekkers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Easter Island, with its mysterious moai statues, is a bucket-list destination.
Whether you’re here for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or scenic road trips, Chile delivers diverse and unforgettable landscapes.
Unfortunately, the country has also seen an increase in crime.
Let’s take a look at the safety guidance so you can enjoy an epic trip to Chile.
Warnings & Dangers in Chile
OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM
Chile is one of the safest countries in South America, but crime, natural disasters, and occasional protests make this a medium risk. Keep in mind that it's not one of the safest countries in the world. Visitors who stay alert, use common sense, and avoid risky areas at night will generally have a trouble-free experience.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM
Another medium risk here. Public transport in Chile is efficient but has some risks, particularly in Santiago. Metro and buses can be crowded, making them a target for pickpockets. Unofficial taxis overcharge or scam tourists, so use official taxis or ride-hailing apps like Uber or Cabify for safer and more transparent pricing.
PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH
Pickpocketing is the most common crime against tourists, especially in Santiago, Valparaíso, and public transport hubs. Thieves often work in groups, using distractions to steal wallets or phones. The risk is high, and you really have to watch your stuff to avoid being a victim.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
Chile is one of the most seismically active countries in the world. Earthquakes and tsunamis can occur with little warning, and wildfires are common in dry seasons. Flooding affects parts of the Atacama Desert and southern regions. Stay weather-aware and sign up for emergency alerts.
MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM
This is another medium risk, and throughout this article, we'll tell you the most dangerous places for muggings. Don't carry valuables or display wealth in public. Limit how much cash you hold, and always protect your passport in a hidden spot. If robbers confront you, don't resist.
TERRORISM RISK: LOW
The risk is lower than things like personal crime, but you should still be aware of crowded areas and report suspicious activities. Take steps to blend in with your surroundings to avoid being a potential target.
SCAMS RISK: LOW
Scams targeting tourists include fake taxi meters, overcharging at restaurants, and staged accidents or distractions to steal valuables. Some ATMs may have card skimmers. Phone scams often happen, so limit what personal information you give out. In fact, I recommend researching the most common scams and fraud reports before your trip to avoid falling victim.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Women have the same risk as anyone else but do face the potential for verbal harassment or catcalling. Don't take a drink from anyone, as criminals have been known to drug tourists and then rob them. Avoid traveling solo or find group tours so you can be around other people.
TAP WATER RISK: LOW
Tap water is safe to drink in major cities like Santiago, Valparaíso, and Punta Arenas. However, in rural areas and the Atacama Desert, water quality varies, and bottled or filtered water is recommended. If traveling to Easter Island, avoid tap water as it may cause stomach issues.
Safest Places to Visit in Chile
The tourism website for Chile is chile.travel.
Tap on the About Chile section to get the basics of entry requirements, getting around, and weather.
The website breaks Chile down into five regions.
We’ll follow suit and highlight some of the best things to explore in each location.
North Chile | The Atacama Desert
The Atacama Desert is home to otherworldly landscapes, including Valle de la Luna, massive salt flats, and geysers like El Tatio.
San Pedro de Atacama serves as the gateway to stargazing at some of the world’s clearest night skies.
The region also features ancient petroglyphs, the UNESCO-listed Humberstone and Santa Laura Saltpeter Works, and high-altitude lagoons surrounded by flamingos.
Central Chile | Santiago and Valparaiso
Santiago boasts cultural landmarks like the Pre-Columbian Art Museum, La Moneda Palace, and Cerro San Cristóbal, which offer sweeping views.
Nearby, Valparaíso, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is famous for its colorful street art, funiculars, and historic port.
The Casablanca Valley offers some of Chile’s best wineries, easily accessible from both cities.
Rapa Nui | Easter Island
Easter Island is best known for its moai statues, found at sites like Ahu Tongariki and Rano Raraku, the quarry where they were carved.
The island’s volcanic craters, such as Rano Kau, and the ceremonial village of Orongo reveal its Polynesian heritage.
Anakena Beach offers a rare tropical escape with archaeological significance.
That all sounds amazing, right?
Keep in mind that getting to Easter Island requires a 5.5-hour flight from Santiago over 2,300 miles of the South Pacific Ocean. Flights are limited.
Southern Chile | Lakes & Volcanoes
The Lake District features stunning landscapes with Villarrica and Osorno Volcanoes, along with national parks like Vicente Pérez Rosales.
The German-influenced town of Puerto Varas is a popular base for exploring glacial lakes, waterfalls, and outdoor activities.
Chiloé Island, with its UNESCO-listed wooden churches, offers a unique cultural experience.
Patagonia Antarctica
Patagonia is home to the legendary Torres del Paine National Park, with its granite peaks, glaciers, and hiking trails.
Further south, Punta Arenas serves as a gateway to Magdalena Island’s penguin colony.
The Chilean Antarctic Territory is accessible via flights from Punta Arenas, offering research stations and untouched polar landscapes.
Places to Avoid in Chile
A little bit later, we’ll go into the cities and neighborhoods that are known for violent crimes or fraud.
However, none of the specific concerns rise to an increased advisory rating.
It is wise to avoid traveling or being in public on March 29, May 1 and 21, September 11, and October 18.
Those dates are known to have demonstrations or protests in the country.
The Araucanía region has ongoing land conflicts between Indigenous Mapuche groups and the Chilean government, leading to occasional protests, roadblocks, and isolated incidents of violence, especially in rural areas.
While major cities like Temuco are safer and tourists aren’t usually the target of any attacks, it’s wise to reconsider traveling to that region.
Plus, be sure to leave if conflict erupts.
While stunning year-round, Patagonia’s winter months (June–August) bring freezing temperatures, strong winds, and limited accessibility.
Many lodges and trails in Torres del Paine close and ferries may be canceled due to rough seas.
The best time to visit Chilean Patagonia is November to March.
Safety Tips for Traveling to Chile
- Chile’s national police force is Carabineros de Chile. In an emergency, dial 133 for police assistance, 131 for medical emergencies, and 132 for firefighters. Tourist police (Politur) operate in major cities and can assist travelers with crime-related issues.
- Chile’s ONEMI (National Emergency Office) issues alerts for earthquakes, tsunamis, and wildfires. The S!E (Sistema de Emergencias) text alert system sends warnings to all mobile phones. Download the Chile Alertas app or follow ONEMI on social media for real-time updates.
- Don’t display signs of wealth or affluence to avoid pickpockets and muggers. Avoid flashy jewelry, designer bags, and visibly expensive electronics. Keep wallets and phones secured, and be extra cautious in crowded markets, bus stations, and public transport.
- Unmarked minefields still exist along Chile’s borders with Peru, Bolivia, and Argentina (Patagonia). Stick to designated roads and trails, especially in remote areas, and avoid venturing off paths in desert or border regions where old landmines may still be active.
- Dengue fever, spread by mosquitoes, is endemic to Easter Island but not found on mainland Chile. Symptoms include fever, rash, and joint pain. There’s no vaccine, so use insect repellent, wear long sleeves, and stay in accommodations with screened windows.
- Chile’s seasons are reversed from the U.S. and Europe. Summer is December–February, and winter is June–August. Patagonia and ski resorts are best in their respective seasons, while Santiago and the coast are most pleasant in spring (September–November) and fall (March–May).
- Air pollution is a major concern in cities like Santiago, Rancagua, Temuco, and Coyhaique, especially in winter (May–August) due to heating emissions and weather conditions trapping smog. On high-pollution days, outdoor activity restrictions may apply. Check Santiago’s air quality index before heading out.
- Chile has high UV radiation levels, especially in the Atacama Desert, Patagonia, and central regions. The ozone layer is thinner here, increasing sunburn risk. Wear high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, even on cloudy days, and avoid midday sun exposure.
- Cities like Putre (11,500 ft), San Pedro de Atacama (8,000 ft), and El Tatio Geysers (14,000 ft) can cause altitude sickness. To acclimate, ascend gradually, stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, and rest if you feel dizzy or nauseous. Ask your doctor about altitude sickness medication before your trip.
- Most major highways (autopistas) are toll roads. Urban areas like Santiago use an electronic tag system (TAG), while long-distance highways have manual toll booths. If renting a car, ensure it has a TAG device or be prepared to pay tolls in cash or card at booths.
So... How Safe Is Chile Really?
General guidance from the U.S., the U.K., Canada, and Australia reports that enhanced caution is required when visiting Chile.
That’s the second of a four-level warning system, with one being the lowest and four being the highest.
Australia and Canada’s Level 2 states, “Exercise a high degree of caution,” while the United States’ Level 2 is “Exercise Increased Caution.”
All countries note that the enhanced risk is due to civil unrest and violent crime.
The U.S. lists Santiago, Valparaiso, Viña del Mar, Antofagasta, Calama, and Iquique as places where violent crimes like carjackings and break-ins often happen.
The warning goes on to say that these areas are known for frequent pickpocketing and muggings:
- Cerro Santa Lucia
- Cerro San Cristobal
- Mercado Central
- Plaza de Armas
- Bellavista
- Yungay
- Barrio Lastarria
- Persa BioBio
- Barrio Meiggs
- Patronato
- Centro Cultural Estación Mapocho
- Los Dominicos in Santiago
Santiago, Valparaiso, and Iquique to Arica in northern Chile are also known for carjackings and car thefts.
Again, all that is according to government sources.
At the same time, you’ll find article after article saying that Chile is one of the safest countries in South America to visit.
After doing a little digging, it turns out the U.S. advisory for Chile was implemented in early 2025.
Before, the advisory level was Level 1: Exercise Standard Precautions.
It’s the increase in street crime, violent crime, and civil unrest that has prompted the elevated risk level.
While there’s no reason to cancel a trip to Chile, it is important to read the most recent news headlines and the updated advisories to see if there’s really a risk that you aren’t willing to take.
How Does Chile Compare?
| Country | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Chile | 79 |
| Morocco | 54 |
| Denmark | 94 |
| Poland | 84 |
| Serbia | 77 |
| Belgium | 70 |
| Iceland | 95 |
| Ireland | 83 |
| Italy | 77 |
Useful Information
Visas
Visa requirements vary depending on your home country. For example, those from the EU or the US don't need a visa. Australians need a particular eVisa. Check the updated rules before you book a trip. Travelers from the US, Australia, Canada, and Mexico will pay a reciprocity fee upon arrival. That amount varies from $23 to $160. Passports must be valid for the length of stay.
Currency
The Chilean peso (CLP) is the local currency. ATMs are widely available, but they often charge fees for foreign cards, and many are in places that aren't safe to use. Credit cards are accepted in cities but less common in rural areas. Carry small bills for taxis and markets. Exchange rates fluctuate, so check before converting cash.
Weather
Chile’s climate varies wildly. Santiago has hot, dry summers and mild winters, while Patagonia is unpredictable year-round. The Atacama Desert stays dry and sunny, and the Lake District sees heavy rain. If visiting multiple regions, pack for different seasons—layers are essential, even in summer.
Airports
Santiago’s Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL) is the main hub, with domestic connections across Chile. Other major airports include Antofagasta (ANF), Punta Arenas (PUQ), and Puerto Montt (PMC). Domestic flights can be pricey but save significant travel time compared to Chile’s extensive but slow bus network.
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended. Chile’s healthcare system is excellent in cities but expensive for foreigners without coverage. Policies should include medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and adventure activities like trekking or skiing. All governments recommend having medical evacuation insurance at a minimum.
Chile Weather Averages (Temperatures)
Average High/Low Temperature
| Temperature / Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °C | 30 | 29 | 27 | 23 | 19 | 15 | 15 | 17 | 19 | 22 | 26 | 28 |
| Low °C | 15 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 13 |
| High °F | 86 | 84 | 81 | 73 | 66 | 59 | 59 | 63 | 66 | 72 | 79 | 82 |
| Low °F | 59 | 57 | 54 | 48 | 45 | 41 | 39 | 41 | 45 | 48 | 52 | 55 |
Chile - Safety by City
| City | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Iquique | 42 |
| La Serena | 76 |
| Punta Arenas | 77 |
| Santiago de Chile | 71 |
| Temuco | 31 |
Seriously?
Time to update your review to reflect current events
Chile is probably the safest place in all South America
I have been to all the south of Chile
I’ve been also at Santiago.
Santiago is not safe for tourists but for travelers. They love stealing phones but in my case I always been really cautious.
In the south of Chile I always feel safe. In small towns they protect travelers. I’ve been camping and overall great experiences. The only advice I would give is to never tell your location or where you’re going because Chileans are very curious and often mean well but come across as creepy sometimes! I plan to go camping in Chile this year!! Again
Not recommend now
With all the protests and such going on right now, I would not recommend going here. I went a few years ago and it wasn’t the safest place but I am a well-knowledged traveler. I would not recommend going here if you have never been here or if you have no travel experience.
I enjoyed Chile
Having been to Chile 3 times now, I think it is absolutely beautiful. I did two group trips and one solo trip and all three times, I loved it. I feel like today may be a bit different seeing as the last time I traveled there was back in 2013 but I still recommend going. It is a wonderful place.
which city is pictured above in the description?
Valparaiso and Viña del Mar
Is this a joke?
I left Chile because I was robbed, molested many times in the street, assaulted with a gun, scammed by a University… Scammed by people so many times… Who wrote this? The government is insanely corrupted, social justice doesn’t exist at all. And the Chilean average see the foreign visitors a way to get easy money.
Is such a wonderful and beautiful country… But omg you never know when someone will take your car, will stole you bag, will touch you without consent… Many restaurants and places ask hidden cost to tourist!
No es verdad yo he estado en chile es precioso y la gente es muy gentil y onesta
40 years living in Chile
I have lived in Chile since 1972 with houses in both Santiago and tourist resorts. I have not experienced violence of any kind or had anything stolen. I am British and this is not my experience on visiting the UK.
11 years.
What are you talking about? I’ve been living in Chile for nearly 11 years and I’ve never experienced what you are talking.
I lived in Providencia during my exchange and I didn’t have any problem.
Chile is a wonderful country. Of course it has flaws, but deffinitely it’s the best one in South America.
I hope I will go back there as soon as this pandemic ends.
This is true and common. My brother in law had been robbed twice in three months. And yes, there is a chance that you will be molested or your purse will be snatched.
I am still going to Chile.
I am going to Chile doing Spring Break trip.
A safe place
If the safety tips are as accurate as the average temperature tables shown, then the tips are worth nothing at all! Chile is 4500 km long – a distance equivalent from Norway to Morocco – so there is no such thing as an “average” temperature.
I am British and have been living in Chile for 33 years. With regard to safety, you need only to look out for pickpockets, which tend to concentrate on foreigners in big cities. Chile is by far the safest country in the Americas after Canada. I have never been a victim of any crime, and the police is trustworthy in general. In the last couple of years the situation has changed for the worse due to political violence, but as long as you are sensible and refrain from participating in political demonstrations, you wont have a problem.
100% – the temperatures sounds like Hawaii’s which is not true unless you are in Arica which is located in the north. Temperature and weather varies depending on which city. From 100 F in the North to below 0 in the South and everything in between.
The place is not safe today. Crime is high. Drug cartels are in. They use fireworks, yes fireworks, to announce when the drug is in. That tells you how much the authorities are doing about it. Immigration became a problem as they “welcome” everybody and have no immigration laws. Immigrants have placed tents in the street for shelter.
Safest country in SA
Lived in Chile for over a year and felt safe most of the time. If you do not go into poblaciones as a tourist and if you watch your stuff it is quite safe, however muggings do happen. In the “Sector Oriente” you can walk at night without any danger. Beware of scams especially online, they are quite common. Outside Santiago I felt even safer.
Safe And Fun
I had a great time in Chile! the whole time I felt very safe. The people were friendly and helpful. Most of my stay was in Santiago but I also went to La Serena. My highlights were San Cristóbal Hill, Sky Costanera and La Serena beach. All the places I mentioned I felt safe and are family friendly. I’ll certainly be visiting again!
No way
I have been threatened with a gun, assaulted and know family members who have been frequenting robbed. Drink spiking is a massive problem in chile and has not been acknowledged by most people
Thieves have a radar for cowards like you, this is an amazing country, very safe, and people get scammed and robbed in every place of the world not only in Chile.
“cowards like you”. So I guess you would resist and get killed? You are stupid, my friend.
So beautiful
Chile is one amazing because of its beauty and the huge coastline it has. This country is one of the best ones from what I’ve visited so far and I visited a few of them. I wouldn’t say it’s a dangerous country. I haven’t experienced anything out of the ordinary while here so I don’t consider it a dangerous place. I saw pickpockets a few times which I expected to see, especially in the bigger cities or in crowded areas. It’s only logical they would show up there.
I have heard of someone getting mugged in the nighttime so there’s that. I think that with a bit of care and by paying attention to surroundings and not going into bad areas (which you should familiarize yourself with), you’ll be fine. I, for one, wouldn’t travel alone to any country. Everything is better and safer for 2 or more people but that’s just me.
I managed to visit a few interesting places and I loved every minute of it. Easter Island was on my bucket list and I’m glad I got a chance to experience it. It’s a remote place and it’s not the easiest place to get to but it was worth it for me. You should know that you get here by flight and it takes around 5 hours so plan on staying a while.
Santiago is a particularly beautiful city and it will probably be the first place you see in Chile. This city has so many things to offer so ask around and see what you like. It has something for everyone from museums and parks to nightlife and entertainment.
Chile also has many natural monuments, one of them being the Los Pinguinos Natural Monument which is worth visiting. You’ll get a chance to see penguins, sea lions and seals but you’ll have to use guided boat tours.
.
The page is correct, Uruguay is a little safer though, I would say its not that dangerous.