Snow-capped mountains, historical monuments, glittering skyscrapers – in the beautiful Latin-American city of Santiago, Chile, there’s a lot to do and a lot to see.
With markets, museums, statues, palaces, and more, there will never be a dull moment during your time in Santiago. Are you ready to explore? Get the right travel medical insurance or travel insurance, and prepare for the trip of a lifetime.
Santiago Travel Medical Insurance for International Travelers — FAQs
Do I need travel medical insurance for Santiago?
Travel medical insurance is no longer required by the Chilean government for international visitors. However, travel insurance covering COVID-19 is still recommended by the US Embassy in Chile and other government agencies.
Why buy travel medical insurance for Santiago?
If you need medical attention in a foreign country, financial assistance is a must.
It is always better to be prepared, so buy travel medical insurance and don’t take any unnecessary risks. Without insurance coverage, you would be forced to pay for any and all medical treatment out of your own pocket.
Santiago Trip Cancellation Insurance for International Travelers — FAQs
Sometimes, things don’t go as planned. A family emergency could arise, you could get sick, or a natural disaster could occur. In any of these situations, travel could be impossible, forcing you to cancel your trip. But what about all of the money you’ve already spent on prepaid bookings? That’s where trip cancellation insurance comes in.
Why buy trip cancellation insurance for Santiago?
Canceled bookings can be a huge financial burden. Be it hotel reservations, airline tickets, or tour bookings, these prepaid expenses are usually nonrefundable. However, with trip cancellation insurance, you can be reimbursed for these expenses if your trip must be cancelled for a covered reason. With all of the money you can save, trip cancellation insurance is just as essential for international travel as your suitcase is.
What can be covered under trip cancellation insurance for Santiago?
Most comprehensive trip cancellation plans include coverage for:
- Trip cancellation for a covered reason
- Loss of baggage
- Delayed and canceled flights
- Emergency medical treatment
When travel plans don’t go as they should, be prepared — buy travel insurance.
Things to Do for Travelers in Santiago
San Cristóbal Hill
In the middle of the city, San Cristóbal Hill (Cerro San Cristóbal) provides a stunning view of the Santiago skyline. Here, you’ll find the famous statue of the Virgin Mary.
Here, there’s a National Zoo you can visit, a Japanese garden where you can relax, and swimming pools to take a dip in if the heat starts getting to you.
La Moneda Palace
One building you have to visit is La Moneda Palace (Palacio de La Moneda). It’s the seat of the current President of Chile, and it’s every bit as fancy and grand as you would expect.
Tourists can roam the inner courtyards of the palace for free. For a more enriching experience, we suggest you book tours of the palace, as they can be highly informative.
Cerro Santa Lucia
Cerro Santa Lucia is an immaculate hill and a peaceful place to visit. It’s almost akin to a small park. But, don’t let the word “small” fool you, because there is a lot to do here.
Visit the Castillo Hidalgo, a 200-year-old cultural monument, and don’t forget Fuente Neptuno. If you don’t feel like doing so much, simply sit back and enjoy the view of the city that the hill offers.
Plaza de Armas
Close to Cerro Santa Lucia is the historical hotspot of the city — Plaza de Armas. This place exudes colonial beauty and cultural significance. Here, you’ll experience the city of Santiago in all its glory.
There’s so much to do here that you can keep wandering for hours without getting bored. A good place to start would be the Metropolitan Cathedral. Follow that up with the Royal Court Palace.
Museum of Pre-Colombian Art
As the Chileans call it, “Museo de Arte Precolombino.” Featuring a vast collection of pottery, sculptures, artworks, and other artifacts, this museum preserves the captivating history of South America.
This is a must-visit for anyone interested in history and culture. The artistic splendor of Latin-America isn’t something to miss out on.
Travel Risks for International Travelers in Santiago
Smog/Pollution
There’s no denying it — Santiago has a pollution problem. As the capital of Chile, it has a population larger than it can support, and this shows in the air quality of the city.
Carry a mask along with you. An N-95 mask prevents harmful particulate matter from entering your lungs. Carrying one along with you will be your best bet.
Traffic
The traffic in Santiago is aggressive, plentiful, and downright dangerous. You will get stuck in jams more often than not.
Therefore, it is advised to book taxis over renting cars and driving on your own.
Taxi drivers
Know how much you’re paying, and compare and contrast rates. Booking cabs through Ola and Uber would be advisable, as cab drivers can overcharge you if they know you are a tourist.
Food
Food in Chile can have a high amount of salt, sugar, fat, colors, or preservatives. Obviously, this depends on what and where you are eating.
So, be mindful about your eating habits while in Santiago. It isn’t worth ruining your stomach for a couple of tasty bites.
Pickpockets
In general, Santiago is a safe city. But as a foreigner, be extremely cautious of pickpockets and bag-snatchers.
Keep your luggage close to you, and your wallet closer. Invest in a slash-proof bag or an RFID wallet.
Before You Travel to Santiago - Do This
Vaccinations
There are some dangerous diseases that are common in Santiago. Make sure you are vaccinated against:
- Measles
- Typhoid
- Hepatitis A
- Hepatitis B
- COVID-19
Slash-proof purse
To stay safe from pickpockets, invest in a slash-proof purse and an RFID wallet. Consider buying locks for your luggage and bags, as it might deter thieves.
Buy insurance
With money, take no risks. A single calamity is enough to send you on the verge of bankruptcy. Stay prepared by purchasing travel medical insurance or travel insurance.