Chile has one of the highest vaccinations rates in the world. Entry into Chile requires full vaccination status, a PCR Test (negative) prior to arrival into Chile and a second PCR Test (negative) upon arrival in Chile. A mandatory quarantine is in effect for all international travelers arriving into Chile for the duration of awaiting PCR test result (12-24 hours). Getting to your lodging- you can only take private transport while waiting for your arrival PCR test results. We would recommend traveling like you would anywhere else in these unique times (please bring masks). IMPORTANT- For most up-to-date info, please see the English language Chilean Tourism Page (below) and follow their step by step instructions (registering for Mobility Pass, Submitting your Travel Affidavit, Health Insurance, etc.) Further questions- contact Kyle 213-610-7922 www.chile.travel/en/traveltochileplan/
***We'd highly recommend staying near Concón, Reñaca, or coastal Viña del Mar.*** We feel an Airbnb in these areas would be a great option to be close to the wedding venue and ocean. For hotels... Radisson Hotel Concón https://www.radissonhotels.com/en-us/hotels/radisson-blu-concon-acqua-spa Sheraton Miramar Hotel https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/knasi-sheraton-miramar-hotel-and-convention-center/
Renting a car is a great option to freely get around and explore on your schedule. Very important to book early in advance for the SCL (Santiago airport) location. Please keep in mind that highways are private and there are tolls to travel. Keep Chilean Pesos on hand as toll booths are everywhere. Bus- Buses are safe, comfortable, efficient and affordable. They can get you virtually anywhere. We like Turbus, Pullman, and Condor. Air- Air travel within Chile (to Patagonia, Atacama, etc.) is easy and affordable. Fly with Sky Airline for domestic flights within Chile. Uber-Completely safe and efficient in medium to large-sized cities. Tipping appreciated but not necessary. Colectivos- Shared ride with set routes (pickups and drop offs). Bring Chilean Pesos as cash only. Micros- Small locally run buses. Cheapest inter-town transport. Metro Santiago- A great subway for getting around Santiago.
Tipping is not like the USA. For restaurants and bars, 10% is the norm.
Chile is the #1 Safest Country in Latin America and within top 30 in the World (Global Peace Index 2019) and the most economically and politically stable. Many places will feel as safe as being at home. That being said, non-violent crime, such as pick pocketing can occur. Please be vigilant with your belongings in all places, especially tourist places like Valparaiso and Plaza de Armas, Santiago.
So much to explore! Please be aware that Chile is a very long country. North to South, Chile measures over 2,600 miles long. That's a little more than Cabo San Lucas, Mexico to Vancouver, Canada! If you're short on time, we'd recommend staying 3-5 days locally around the wedding location (Concón, Reñaca, Viña del Mar) plus Santiago (1-2 days). Two great road trips- Southbound from Viña del Mar/Santiago, head to Pucón and the Lakes District. This is an amazing part of the country that is lush and green. Snow capped volcanoes, lakes, rivers, hot springs, and great beer! Northbound from Viña del Mar/Santiago. La Serena is a beautiful beach town. The Elqui Valley has excellent stargazing in the desert! This is where the grapes for Pisco are grown. If you have more time and Covid travel allows, (10 days +), we'd recommend the area highlights like Patagonia, Easter Island, or the Atacama Desert. These areas must be flown into from Santiago. ¡Disfruta!