Destination: Chile

LONELY PLANET'S OFFICIAL GUIDEBOOK INFORMATION

Dangers & Annoyances

Chile is a remarkably safe country. Its violent crime rate is one of the lowest in South America (and much lower than the US). Nevertheless, it still has a healthy nonviolent crime rate. It’s a good idea to take certain precautions, especially against pickpocketing, which is on the rise. Avoid carrying large amounts of money in vulnerable spots. Money belts and leg pouches are two secure means of carrying cash and other important documents.

An annoyance rather than a danger are ‘students’ who hand out poems with a sob story about their financial status and inability to study. They’re rarely students, and the poems are rarely theirs.

Oh, and if you’re clearly gringo, you might get charged by the odd maverick park attendant to get into free parking areas.

Photographing military installations may lead to getting the film confiscated and possibly a visit to jail.

Dogs & Bugs

Chile’s stray canine gangs are a growing problem. These are usually not your emaciated, mongrel variety, but well-fed purebreds – especially hoards of German shepherds in the south. Chile doesn’t have much of a spaying or neutering program (most Chileans think it immoral to chop the cojones off any beast) and, in more rural areas, locals may purchase the dogs and coddle them as puppies but then let them fend for themselves later on. In tourist towns, dogs sniff out the foreigners and follow them everywhere, but are usually harmless: they know who’ll pet them and feed them half an empanada. Unfortunately dog attacks do happen, usually to kids. If driving, be prepared for dogs barking and running after the bumper.

Summertime in the south brings about the pesty tábano, a large biting horsefly that is more an annoyance than a health risk. Bring along insect repellent and wear light-colored clothing.

Natural Hazards

Earthquakes happen here: it’s a fact of life for most Chileans. Local construction often does not meet seismic safety standards; adobe buildings tend to be especially vulnerable. If you’re hyper-safety conscious, make contingency plans for safety or evacuation before going to sleep.

Volcanoes are less likely to threaten safety, since they usually give some warning before blowing their top. However, a few popular resorts are potentially vulnerable, including Pucón, nestled at the base of Volcán Villarrica.

Many of Chile’s finest beaches have dangerous offshore rip currents, so ask before diving in and make sure someone on shore knows your whereabouts. Many beaches post signs that say apto para bañar (swimming okay) and no apto para bañar (swimming not okay) or peligroso (dangerous).

In the winter, the smog in Santiago can become a health risk. The city declares ‘pre-emergency’ or ‘emergency’ states when the level of smog is dangerously high and takes measures to limit emissions. Children, senior citizens and people with respiratory problems should avoid trips to downtown Santiago at these times.

Personal Security & Theft

Santiago’s central plazas, Barrio Brasil, markets and bus terminals are prone to pickpockets and petty thievery – as are its buses and metro. Keep an eye on all belongings, and take advantage of the secure left-luggage services at bus terminals and hotels. Violent crime is still fairly unusual in Santiago; men or women can travel in most parts of the city at any time of day or night without excessive apprehension.

Valparaíso has a bad reputation for robberies – sometimes violent – in its southern neighborhoods, several of which are best avoided altogether. Beach resorts are prime territory for thievery in the summer, including Viña del Mar, Reñaca and La Serena. Be alert for pickpockets and avoid leaving valuables on the beach while you go for a swim.

Don’t fall for distractions, such as someone tapping you on the shoulder, spitting or spilling something on you, since these ‘accidents’ are often part of a team effort to relieve you of your backpack or other valuables. Grip your bag or purse firmly, carry your wallet in a front pocket and avoid conspicuous displays of expensive jewelry. Valuables such as passports and air tickets can be carried in money belts or neck pouches; alternatively an elastic leg pouch is less cumbersome but can get very sweaty in hot weather.

Baggage insurance is a good idea. Since the doors to rooms in many budget hotels have only token locks, do not leave valuables such as cash or cameras in your room. You may want to bring your own lock. Upmarket hotels often have secure strongboxes in each room.

Travelling to Chile?
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