| Geographically speaking Chile is unlike any other country: it is a long sliver of land spanning 4000 Km. but never more than 180 Km wide, limited by natural borders such as the Andes mountain range acting as a great icy barrier to the east and the Pacific ocean to the west. These characteristics have created a country distinct from any other country in South America: it is westernized, politically stable with an orderly government and the safest and most relaxing country to travel in, whilst its capital, Santiago, is one of the easiest and least intimidating cities to arrive in. People are warm and hospitable, and the police are uncorrupt, polite and helpful. Recognized as a trade pioneer in Latin America, Chile has increasingly assumed regional and international leadership roles befitting its status as a stable, democratic nation.
Due to the huge distance the country covers, Chile has a great variety of landscapes, from the immense deserts of the "Altiplano" in the north, to the giant ice fields and glaciers of "Patagonia" in the south. Chile's population of 16 million is predominantly concentrated in the Santiago and Viņa del Mar regions, making it hardly noticeable throughout many parts of the country. This explains the country's many vast and untouched wilderness regions. While many of these regions have become a paradise for outdoor activities and adventure tourism, there are still a large number of these areas where it is possible to be the only person for miles around and where you can truly find solitude and tranquility.
Useful Facts
Language: Spanish.
Currency: Chilean Peso. (US$ 1 = CLP$ 475 approx.)
Arrival to the country: Visas required for: New Zealand, Haiti, India, Lebanon, Egypt, Philippins, Russia. On arrival, visitors receive a 90 day visa.
Taxes: VAT (locally known as IVA): 19%. Visitors paying for accommodation in US$, will have IVA automatically discounted.
Electricity: 220 volts
Communications Telephone Country code:
56, Santiago city code: (0) 2 |
Explore Chile
|
