Best Travel Insurance for Chile in 2025
- The best travel insurances for Chile
- Travel Safety in Chile
- Is travel insurance required for a visa to Chile?
- Why take out travel insurance for Chile?
- What coverage is included in travel insurance for Chile?
- The Cost of Travel Insurance for Chile
- How to pay less for your travel insurance to Chile
- Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Chile?
- FAQ
Travel insurance for Chile: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for Chile covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and other unforeseen travel-related incidents.
2. Key protection: Insurance is not mandatory for U.S. citizens but is highly recommended for medical emergencies.
3. Healthcare cost: Private healthcare in Chile is expensive, with hospital stays often exceeding $1,000 USD per night.
4. Price: A one-week travel insurance plan for Chile typically costs between $30 and $60 USD.
5. Good to know: Ensure your policy covers adventure activities like hiking or skiing if you plan such excursions.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travelers every month. After analyzing 38 travel insurance policies available in the US, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for Chile.
The best travel insurances for Chile
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | $1.1M | Comprehensive protection for travel to Chile. - high medical limits - repatriation included - strong natural disaster cover |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | $1.1M | Effective plan for travelers who want robust support. - 24/7 medical helpline - no deductible - cancellation cover |
| Tourist Card | $550k | Suitable for tourism in Chile, with balanced guarantees. - good medical cover - emergency assistance - accessible price |
| Travel Pass Monde | $770k | Strong overall protection and high worldwide acceptance. - repatriation covered - emergency support - hospital costs included |
| Globe Partner | $330k | Essential coverage for extended stays in Chile. - medical expenses abroad - civil liability - simple claims process |
| Globe Traveller | $550k | Good for short stays and basic needs in Chile. - essential medical cover - fast reimbursement - limited ceiling |
- high medical limits
- repatriation included
- strong natural disaster cover
- 24/7 medical helpline
- no deductible
- cancellation cover
- good medical cover
- emergency assistance
- accessible price
- repatriation covered
- emergency support
- hospital costs included
- medical expenses abroad
- civil liability
- simple claims process
- essential medical cover
- fast reimbursement
- limited ceiling
Travel Safety in Chile
As of June 2025, the US Department of State advises travelers to exercise increased caution when visiting Chile, primarily due to civil unrest and a heightened risk of crime in specific areas.
- Security risks: incidents of pickpocketing and mugging are frequently reported in tourist zones like Plaza de Armas and Bellavista in Santiago. The Araucanía region is under a state of emergency, with ongoing conflict and sporadic violence.
- Health risks: medical care in major cities is generally good, but the standard drops in remote or mountainous regions. Santiago suffers from high air pollution during winter months, which can worsen respiratory problems for sensitive travelers.
- Environmental hazards: Chile regularly experiences earthquakes and, less commonly, tsunamis or volcanic eruptions. For example, past earthquakes have led to travel disruptions and temporary infrastructure shutdowns.
- Urban considerations: unregulated taxis and counterfeit ride-share drivers operate in Santiago. Official advice is to use only recognized taxi companies with orange or yellow license plates.
Although not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended by the US Department of State, particularly to cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation, which can be extremely costly in Chile.
Is travel insurance required for a visa to Chile?
No, travel insurance is not mandatory for US citizens to obtain a visa or enter Chile for tourist stays of up to 90 days.
Travel insurance is still strongly recommended due to the risk of unexpected medical costs, emergency evacuation, or trip disruptions. Health care can be expensive or limited outside major cities, and coverage for events like earthquakes or civil unrest is essential for financial protection.
According to our data, 80% of travelers purchase travel insurance before going to Chile. This high percentage is due to the combination of costly private medical care, a risk of natural disasters, and security concerns.
Why take out travel insurance for Chile?
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Chile.
In Chile, private clinics such as Clinica Alemana in Santiago or Clínica Las Condes offer high-quality care, but costs are significant, with foreigners often directed to private facilities. Public hospitals can be overcrowded or lack modern equipment, especially outside large cities.
Travel insurance covers medical fees, hospitalization, medication, ambulance transport, and emergency repatriation to the US in case of a serious incident.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Chile.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at Clinica Alemana | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | CLP 2,200,000 (about $2,300) | up to $100,000 |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | CLP 950,000 (about $995) | up to $100,000 |
| I need to be repatriated | CLP 7,500,000 (about $7,800) | up to $250,000 |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | CLP 3,200,000 (about $3,325) | up to $100,000 |
These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions. It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.
What coverage is included in travel insurance for Chile?
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Pays hospital bills, consultations, and medication after accident or illness, including COVID-19. Recommended limit: $100,000+ per person. |
| 🚑 Medical evacuation & repatriation | Covers emergency transport, helicopter evacuation, and return to the US if medically required. Recommended limit: $250,000. |
| 📦 Baggage loss or theft | Reimburses lost, stolen, or delayed baggage. Recommended limit: $1,500+ per trip. |
| 🏡 Trip cancellation/interruption | Covers prepaid expenses if you cancel due to illness, emergencies, or disasters. Recommended limit: $3,000–$5,000 per person. |
| 🦠 Personal liability | Coverage if you unintentionally injure someone or damage property. Recommended limit: $100,000. |
| 🏞️ Natural disaster & civil unrest | Covers extra expenses caused by natural disasters like earthquakes or trip interruptions due to unrest. Recommended limit: $1,000+. |
| 👨⚕️ 24/7 Assistance services | Offers phone support, local contacts, and help finding medical care and translation if needed. Always included in quality policies. |
Recommended limit: $100,000+ per person.
Recommended limit: $250,000.
Recommended limit: $1,500+ per trip.
Recommended limit: $3,000–$5,000 per person.
Recommended limit: $100,000.
Recommended limit: $1,000+.
Always included in quality policies.
Travel insurance from local providers or bank cards often has low limits and excludes many scenarios. For safer travel, it is best to choose a trusted insurer with broad, reliable coverage. Compare the top options on HelloSafe and subscribe online to get your certificate immediately.
The Cost of Travel Insurance for Chile
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | $21 |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | $42 |
| 1 month | 35 years old | $60 |
| 1 month | 70 years old | $135 |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
The price of your travel insurance policy depends on several key elements: the traveler's age, trip duration, destination, coverage limits, and optional add-ons like a cancellation waiver. It is important to keep these factors in mind to choose the right plan that fits your needs and budget for your trip.
💡 It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.
👉 Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareHow to pay less for your travel insurance to Chile
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Chile while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 🗓️ Trip duration | Insurance cost depends on length of stay. Longer trips to Chile, such as a month, generally cost more. | Adjust coverage to actual dates and avoid adding extra days you do not need. |
| 🎂 Traveller's age | Age impacts price. Some insurers increase costs significantly for travelers over 60 visiting Chile. | Look for policies with stable pricing. Heymondo does not increase over age 62. |
| ⛰️ Level of coverage | High medical limits are advised in Chile due to natural disaster risks. Lower limits may reduce cost. | Choose essential medical and repatriation coverage, and avoid excessive extras. |
| 👨👩👧👦 Number of travelers | Family or group policies can offer better per-person rates for trips to Chile. | Consider group coverage to access multi-person discounts for your party. |
| 🏥 Medical network | Access to bilingual or international hospitals may affect the cost and quality in remote areas. | Choose plans that list direct payment options and strong local partnerships. |
| 💳 Deductible | Policies with higher deductibles cost less, but you’ll pay more out of pocket in Chile if you claim. | Select a deductible based on your budget and risk tolerance, without over-insuring. |
| 💼 Activities planned | Adventure sports are common in Chile and raise premiums. Exclude sport coverage if you will not need it. | Remove optional adventure coverage if not relevant for your planned activities. |
Natural Disaster and Insurance Risks in Chile
Earthquake and natural disaster risks in Chile mean you should review policy limits for emergency evacuation, repatriation, and hospital care, even if you are focused on cost savings.
Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Chile?
It is completely legitimate to wonder if your current coverage—like your credit card insurance or private health insurance—can protect you during a trip to Chile. Unfortunately, these options are often limited or insufficient for travel abroad. Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Valid in Chile? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (Medicare, Medicaid) | No, never | No coverage for medical expenses or repatriation abroad. | Travel insurance covers up to $250,000 in medical care, repatriation, and emergency evacuation. |
| Private health insurance (Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, Blue Cross Blue Shield) | Yes, partly | Emergency health claims abroad, often limited to $50,000. Routine care and evacuation are excluded. | Travel insurance can cover $250,000+ for medical and includes evacuation, hospitalization, and local support. |
| Classic credit card (Chase Freedom, Citi Double Cash, Capital One Platinum) | Yes, partly | Medical expenses typically less than $10,000, no cover for trip cancellation or lost baggage. | Travel insurance offers higher limits, up to $250,000, plus trip and baggage coverage. |
| Premium credit card (Chase Sapphire Reserve, Amex Platinum, Capital One Venture X) | Yes, partly | Better: medical up to $100,000, limited trip delay and baggage loss protection. | Travel insurance also includes $5,000+ in trip cancellation, 24/7 assistance, and more flexible coverage. |
Example
While trekking in Patagonia, Mark suffered a severe leg fracture. The helicopter rescue and surgery in a Santiago clinic cost $25,000. His Chase Sapphire card's insurance covered only $2,000, and his US health plan considered the foreign clinic out-of-network, leaving him to pay the remaining $23,000 for his mountain adventure.
Expert advice
Always check the terms, exclusions, and limits of your existing insurance. Essential situations, like trip interruption due to a relative’s illness, might be excluded. Read the conditions carefully to avoid unpleasant surprises abroad. In all cases, it is safer and more reassuring to buy dedicated travel insurance tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Chile?
US citizens do not need a visa for tourist visits to Chile of 90 days or less. You must have a valid passport for the entire stay and will receive a Tourist Card upon entry, which must be presented upon departure as well.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Chile?
Start by using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool to compare available plans. Next, review the coverage and exclusions, taking into account Chile’s specific risks like natural disasters or medical costs. Then you can purchase your plan online and immediately receive your insurance certificate.
Are medical services in Chile expensive for travelers?
Medical care can be costly at private clinics in Chile, especially for foreigners, with hospital stays often exceeding $1,000 per day without insurance. Most providers require upfront payment. Travel insurance helps you avoid large out-of-pocket expenses for emergency treatment or evacuation.
What should I look for in a travel insurance policy for Chile?
Ensure your policy covers at least $100,000 for medical expenses, includes emergency evacuation and repatriation, and provides good coverage for trip cancellations and lost luggage. Consider policies that protect against natural disasters and civil unrest, which occasionally occur in Chile.
Does travel insurance cover natural disasters or civil unrest in Chile?
Many comprehensive travel insurance policies include coverage for trip interruptions or evacuations due to earthquakes, wildfires, and other emergencies, as well as disruptions from civil unrest. Always read your policy’s terms closely to confirm the specific coverage for these events.
Can I use travel insurance to cover lost or stolen belongings in Chile?
Yes, most travel insurance plans offer protection for lost, stolen, or delayed baggage and personal items, subject to coverage limits. You’ll need to provide supporting documentation such as police or airline reports to file a claim for these incidents.
Do I need a visa to travel to Chile?
US citizens do not need a visa for tourist visits to Chile of 90 days or less. You must have a valid passport for the entire stay and will receive a Tourist Card upon entry, which must be presented upon departure as well.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Chile?
Start by using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool to compare available plans. Next, review the coverage and exclusions, taking into account Chile’s specific risks like natural disasters or medical costs. Then you can purchase your plan online and immediately receive your insurance certificate.
Are medical services in Chile expensive for travelers?
Medical care can be costly at private clinics in Chile, especially for foreigners, with hospital stays often exceeding $1,000 per day without insurance. Most providers require upfront payment. Travel insurance helps you avoid large out-of-pocket expenses for emergency treatment or evacuation.
What should I look for in a travel insurance policy for Chile?
Ensure your policy covers at least $100,000 for medical expenses, includes emergency evacuation and repatriation, and provides good coverage for trip cancellations and lost luggage. Consider policies that protect against natural disasters and civil unrest, which occasionally occur in Chile.
Does travel insurance cover natural disasters or civil unrest in Chile?
Many comprehensive travel insurance policies include coverage for trip interruptions or evacuations due to earthquakes, wildfires, and other emergencies, as well as disruptions from civil unrest. Always read your policy’s terms closely to confirm the specific coverage for these events.
Can I use travel insurance to cover lost or stolen belongings in Chile?
Yes, most travel insurance plans offer protection for lost, stolen, or delayed baggage and personal items, subject to coverage limits. You’ll need to provide supporting documentation such as police or airline reports to file a claim for these incidents.
