Chile is remarkable in its narrowness and length—more than 4,000 miles of coast from the desert north to the sub-Arctic regions of Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego. As you can imagine, the best time to go depends on which parts of the country you’ll be visiting.

Speaking in broad generalities, the high season is for leisure travel to Chile is December through February. The shoulder season months—October to November and March to April—can also be excellent, with mild climates and fewer visitors.

Spanish is the official and predominant language in Chile. English is spoken in locations frequented by foreign visitors and larger cities.

What to pack for your trip to Chile depends on which destinations you’ll visit, how long you’ll be away, what you’ll be doing in Chile, and the time of year.

Still, packing for Chile is not difficult. Here are some of our recommendations:

• Sun protection (30+ sunblock, sunhat, and sunglasses)
• Camera, batteries / chargers, and data cards
• Prescription medications
• Synthetic fleece pullover, as well as a down parka or some other warm layer. Atacama is a high-altitude destination, and mornings can be frigid.
• Thermal underwear
• A wool hat
• Wind resistant jacket, gloves, trekking pants
• Swimwear
• Daypack or small backpack
• Light, informal clothing for dining and hotel
• Comfortable walking / hiking shoes (preferably waterproof)
• Electrical adapters and converters. Chilean electricity is officially 220V 50Hz. Many sockets have no ground pin. Some sockets accept US plugs; this does not mean that these sockets deliver the US standard 110 volts. Make sure that your equipment can handle 220 volts; irreparable damage and even fire can result. Most laptop power adapters and many portable electronics chargers are designed to work on dual voltage; check the specifications for your equipment to be sure.

LANDED has also prepared this packing list for travelers visiting Patagonia.

Chile is generally quite safe; however, common-sense precautions are still important. Bag snatchers and pickpockets target public transportation hubs and tourist areas. As a general rule, you should not be out in the streets alone after dark. Stay in well-lit areas and be aware of your surroundings. Most incidents occur in the street. Keep your travel documents (e.g. passports) in the hotel safe or concealed in a zippered pocket. Leave that flashy wristwatch at home or in the hotel security box. The hotel concierge and local guides can provide the most up-to-date safety guidance.