Health Advice
Health and Advice for Chile
Overall Chile has good health care throughout the country however the best resources are generally at private medical facilities with more modern equipment and a faster response. Most doctors are bilingual. Pharmacies in Santiago are relatively easy to find and prices for medicines are quite low. Health insurance is essential for all travellers. No vaccinations are required for travel to Chile however tetanus, diphtheria, rabies, hepatitis A and typhoid are sometimes recommended depending on the season and region visited. Tap water is safe to drink.
Santiago lies in one of the most seismically active regions in the world so you are almost certain to experience more than one tremor while visiting Chile. Earthquakes are common, however major ones only strike every decade or two.
Santiago, the capital of Chile, suffers from a high rate of pick pocketing and muggings. Stay alert and be especially careful in all crowded areas and when travelling in the downtown area avoid wearing expensive-looking jewellery or watches, even during the day. If you have a laptop leave it in your hotel room and visit an Internet café if you need to be connected. Wallets, cameras and cell-phones regardless of price and quality are lucrative amongst criminals for their own use or sale in the black market so take special care with these items and keep them out of sight when outdoors.
When dealing with Chilean currency it is advised to separate coins and bills as coins are frequently used when paying for public transport, newspapers or snacks. Store them in a small handbag so that your bills will remain concealed and keep in mind that all bills are the same size, yet, they all are very differently coloured and designed. Do not reach for your wallet until the vendor tells you the price.
Chilean Carabineros (National Police) are very trustworthy. Do not try to bribe a carabinero, as it will get you into serious trouble as they are very proud and honest, and bribery would be a serious offence against their credibility.
Chilean drivers tend to be not as erratic and volatile as those in neighbouring countries. Chileans do tend to become curious around foreigners and may stare so be prepared if you are blonde, black or Asian. Although they are infrequent there have been reports of racist attacks, however the police (carabineros) have become better at handling these situations. If you are from the Middle East, it will be easier to blend in and will not get the same level of attention as a black or Asian would.
Avoid taking photographs of navy ships and buildings or other military buildings as this could lead to being arrested and all your photos being erased. Chile lives in peace with its neighbours Argentina, Bolivia and Peru however the country is always preparing for an attack. Some cities like Talcahuano and Punta Arenas are naval cities so be extra careful when taking photographs here. Some marines may speak a little English so always ask before taking any photos and never provoke the guards.
Emergency numbers are: ambulance 131, police 133, and fire 132.
