BEFORE YOU LEAVE YOUR COUNTRY

Chile does not require visas for citizens of the United States, Canada or Europe, but you will be issued tourist card when you enter the country. Please retain this document, as you will need it to leave the country. Citizens of other countries, check with your Embassy or Consular office for further information.

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Flights & Travel arrangements

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We recommend reconfirming your flights at least 72 hours prior departure.

EMERGENCY CONTACTS & DELAYS EN ROUTE

Please make sure the person you have designated as your emergency contact while you are on the trip has a copy of your air and land itinerary. 

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In the event you are delayed on route, please contact the Emergency numbers below: 

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Contact:

Emergency phone: +56 99 278 1331

Email: winetravelchile@gmail.com 

WHAT TO BRING

Clothing

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Excursions require comfortable sports clothing. Given the powerful sun in this part of the world, we strongly recommend that you carry all necessary items for protection against sunburn, sunglasses, sun block, and lip protection. 

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Dress Code

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None of the restaurants/ excursions require formal clothes, tie, or jackets, etc. Plan on informal wear during the day and smart casual for evenings.

A FEW THINGS TO REMEMBER

Cross Cultural Tips

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The famous expression "When in Rome, do as the Romans do," is an excellent bit of advice. Remember that you are travelling to a foreign country where you are the visitor, and you need to adapt to the culture and customs of the local people, not vice-versa. It is common for events to arise that place your own cultural beliefs in contrast with those of your hosts. On a short trip, you probably will not learn all, or even most, of the cultural differences. It is possible, however, to learn enough to better understand these differences and to attune your behavior to that of the people around you. A lot of the comforts you are accustomed to may not be available to you, and time flows at a different pace. Patience and respect are the crucial ingredients for a successful trip and an enriching experience. 

CLIMATE

Temperature

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Santiago, due to its position in the central region, has a Mediterranean climate with well-defined seasons. Spring, between September and November is mild, which contributes to the flourishing green color of the plants and trees. Summer, between December and February, is hot and dry with temperatures that can reach over 30°C (87ºF) and cool down at night. Temperature decreases on the coast and in the mountains is much more extreme. Autumn falls between March and May, and temperatures decrease gradually. In winter, from June to August, mornings are cold, some as low as -2º C (28º F), and although the temperature rises at midday, it rarely exceeds 15°C (60ºF).

HEALTH ISSUES

Tap water

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Although the water is safe to drink throughout the country, we recommend drinking only bottled water to prevent any issues that may arise with the change in mineral content. 

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Warning

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Fruits (fresh or dried) may not be brought into Chile. This includes everything from an apple in your carry-on, the banana from your in-flight breakfast, or the raisins in a packet of trail mix. If you have any doubts, declare any food items, otherwise you may incur a significant fine. 

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Currency 

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Chile’s currency is the Chilean Peso. The exchange rate will be better in Chile than the official rate available in the United States or Canada. It is recommended that you bring a small amount of small bills for tips and small purchases. Your trip leader will advise you of the best way to exchange US Dollars to Chilean Pesos (CLP)

GRATUITIES

Restaurants

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The customary tip is 10%

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Taxis

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Tipping is not required, although drivers do appreciate one if you are happy with the service.

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Guides and driver

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It is customary to tip your local guides if you feel they have gone the extra mile to accommodate you.