Travel Vaccines and Advice for Chile
Chile often attracts tourists with its unique culture and landscapes.
The northern part of the country contains the world’s driest desert, the Atacama Desert. This desert is full of fertile oases containing all kinds of wildlife. Central Chile is home to the capital city, Santiago. This city is has many parks, sporting events, and cultural activities. For a taste of a thriving Chilean nightlife and authentic cuisine, Santiago is the place to go.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Chile?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Chile
Is a Passport or Visa Required for Chile?
What Is the Climate Like in Chile?
How Safe Is Chile?
Take a Trip to Valparaiso
What Should I Take to Chile?
Canadian Embassy in Chile
Do I Need Vaccines for Chile?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Chile. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Chile: typhoid, hepatitis A, polio, rabies, hepatitis B, influenza, pneumonia, meningitis, chickenpox, shingles, Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) and measles, mumps and rubella (MMR).
See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:
- Typhoid –
Food & Water –
Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. - Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travellers. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travellers to any destination. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
Moderate risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Recommended for travellers to most regions. - Influenza –
Airborne –
Vaccine components change annually. - COVID-19 –
Airborne –
Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. - Pneumonia –
Airborne –
Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. - Meningitis –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. - Chickenpox –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. - Shingles –
Direct Contact –
Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. - TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) –
Wounds & Airborne –
Only one adult booster of pertussis required. - Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) –
Various Vectors –
Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.
See the table below for more information:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for Chile |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Typhoid | Food & Water | Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. |
| Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travellers. |
| Polio | Food & Water | Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travellers to any destination. |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | Moderate risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Recommended for travellers to most regions. |
Routine Vaccinations for Chile |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Influenza | Airborne | Vaccine components change annually. |
| COVID-19 | Airborne | Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. |
| Pneumonia | Airborne | Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. |
| Meningitis | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. |
| Chickenpox | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. |
| Shingles | Direct Contact | Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. |
| TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) | Wounds & Airborne | Only one adult booster of pertussis required. |
| Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) | Various Vectors | Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended. |
Specific Vaccine Information
- Typhoid – Salmonella Typhi causes typhoid, a severe infection transmitted via contaminated food and water. Vaccination is recommended for travellers and those with elevated infection risks. Practicing proper hygiene and safe food handling can also reduce the likelihood of contracting typhoid.
- Hepatitis A – Hepatitis A is a highly contagious liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus, typically spreading through contaminated food or water, or close contact with an infected person. Symptoms can include fatigue, nausea, stomach pain, and jaundice. The hepatitis A vaccine is a safe and effective shot that provides immunity against the virus, usually given in two doses.
- Rabies – Rabies, a deadly viral disease, spreads via bites or scratches from infected animals. Vaccination is the cornerstone of prevention, including post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for suspected exposures and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for individuals with regular animal contact or travellers.
- Hepatitis B – Hepatitis B is a serious liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus, primarily spread through blood and bodily fluids. The hepatitis B vaccine, given in a series of injections, effectively prevents the infection, offering long-term protection against this potentially life-threatening disease.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are highly contagious viral infections. Vaccination is the cornerstone of prevention. The MMR vaccine, with its two-dose regimen, ensures strong immunity, reducing the risk of disease transmission and protecting both individuals and the broader population from these potentially severe illnesses.
Few mosquito-borne diseases are present in Chile. But, some tick-borne infections are present. Consider bringing bug spray on your trip.
Visit our vaccinations page to learn more. Travel safely with Passport Health and schedule your appointment today by calling or book online now.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Chile
Prevent Bug Bites in Chile
To ward off bug bites, follow PHAC advice: wear long clothing, use screens, and remove standing water. Opt for EPA-registered repellents with DEET, picaridin, or OLE for protection. If bitten, wash the area, avoid scratching, and apply remedies. Seek medical help for severe reactions.
Food and Water Safety in Chile
When abroad, prioritize food safety by adhering to PHAC guidelines: opt for fully cooked dishes, steer clear of raw seafood, and choose eateries with good hygiene practices. Stick to bottled beverages, be cautious with ice, and drink alcohol responsibly. Prevent travellers’ diarrhea through vigilant hand hygiene and avoiding unsanitary street food.
Altitude Sickness in Chile
At high altitudes, altitude sickness can strike, causing symptoms like headaches and nausea due to oxygen deprivation. Preventive measures include gradual ascent, hydration, and medication like acetazolamide. If symptoms develop, swift descent to lower altitudes, rest, and medical evaluation if necessary are crucial for recovery and safety.
Infections To Be Aware of in Chile
- Chagas disease (American Trypanosomiasis) – Chagas disease, transmitted by kissing bugs, can be prevented through insecticide use and insect avoidance.
Is a Passport or Visa Required for Chile?
Canadian nationals using Canadian passports do not need a visa to visit Chile as a tourist or business traveller.
Chile Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Chile? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | ||
| Vaccinations | ||
Sources: Embassy of Chile and Canadian Travel and Tourism
Parents must provide proof of relation if travelling with a minor. Original or authenticated birth certificates are considered the best form of proof.
Visit the Canadian Travel and Tourism website for more information on entry and exit requirements.
What Is the Climate Like in Chile?
Due to the unique structure of Chile, the climate differs throughout the country. But, the entire region does tend to have consistent, seasonal weather. Chile’s summer lasts from December to February, and the winter lasts from June to August.
- Northern Chile – Containing the Atacama Desert, this region can have temperatures as high as 30. Travellers should prepare for high heat as well as cold, as night can dip below freezing.
- Central Chile – This region has a Mediterranean feel to it. It has many beach areas that provide plenty of sunshine for travellers to enjoy throughout the year.
- Southern Chile – With strong winds and icy areas, it is best to explore this area in the summer months. Temperatures are fairly low all year round and bringing layers is recommended.
How Safe Is Chile?
Chile is generally a safe and secure environment for travellers. Chile has the lowest amount of violent crimes in all the Latin America.
Demonstrations and street crimes do occur, especially in cities. In the metropolitan Santiago area, home invasions and vehicle thefts are more common. To avoid being a victim to these criminal acts, stay alert and aware of your surroundings.
Tourist areas can have pickpockets and be sites of some types of petty crime. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times and, when possible, travel in a group.
Take a Trip to Valparaiso
Avoid an Embarrassing Stop
Over 70% of travellers
will have diarrhea.
Get protected with Passport Health’s
travellers’ diarrhea kit!
Valparaiso is a colorful city in Chile that many tourists visit for its beautiful buildings, street art, museums, food and more. Tourists can explore the city’s historic neighborhoods on foot or by taking a funicular, which is like a cable car.
Valparaiso is known for its vibrant street art scene, and tourists can take a tour or simply walk around to see the many murals and graffiti art that decorate the buildings. The city also has several museums, including one about fine arts, natural history, and naval and maritime history. Tourists can also enjoy traditional Chilean cuisine or international dishes at one of Valparaiso’s many restaurants, cafes, and bars.
Nearby wine regions like the Casablanca Valley offer opportunities for wine tasting. Valparaiso is located on the Pacific coast, so tourists can take a boat tour or go to the beach to enjoy the stunning views.
Valparaiso has something for everyone, and tourists are sure to have a great time exploring the city’s unique culture and attractions.
What Should I Take to Chile?
While a developed nation, there is still some preparation needed for a trip to Chile.
- Sunglasses – It is almost always sunny in Chile, especially near the beaches. Bring along a good pair of sunglasses to protect your eyes during your time outside.
- Layers – Chile, especially in the northern region, has unpredictable temperatures. Bring layers of clothing such as a hoodie, sweater, or jacket.
- Walking Shoes – There are a lot of parks and walking paths throughout Chile. Whether you are visiting a city, beach, or nature site, you should expect to be walking a lot. Comfortable walking shoes are key to helping you enjoy the trip.
Canadian Embassy in Chile
Canadian consular services can help travellers with many issues they may face including passport services. Once in Chile, the information for the Canadian Embassy is:
Embassy of Canada in Chile
Nueva Tajamar 481, Torre Norte, 12th floor,
(Edificio World Trade Center)
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Telephone: (56-2) 2652-3800
Ready to start your next journey? Call us at or book online now!
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Chile
“Needed a yellow fever vaccination for Chile and South America. I had to plan in advance to get it (2 months) but once I got there it was easy peasy. Friendly, knowledgeable staff!”
“This is our first time to see this clinic . Nurse are very knowledgeable and friendly in preparing us to go to Chile.”
“Great experience. Explained all my options thoroughly and suggested ways in which to save costs but remain safe, which is important for students travelling to Chile on a budget.”
“Overall I had an excellent experience- the nurse was very knowledgeable about Chile and helpful!”
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