What to Expect
You are embarking on an overseas adventure in a place and amongst people whose lives are very different from your own.
Many aspects of life in Chile may seem unusual. Remember that these are often the same aspects that make an area an exotic and attractive destination.
While the activities require a mid-level of fitness, you should prepare to be physically active throughout this trip and the fitter you are the more you will enjoy each activity.
In addition to the personal physical challenges you may face, travel conditions can present unexpected obstacles, such as rough and bumpy roads and changeable weather.
To prepare for this “pack” a flexible and relaxed attitude. Bring a spirit of adventure and inquiry, a healthy sense of humour and a willingness to encounter the unexpected, and you will find your trip to Chile the adventure of a lifetime!
Chris says "TASTE"
"Mote con Huesillo is a truly Chilean affair. Available from street vendors and market stalls all over Santiago, it's a sweet (non-alcoholic) Peach drink, with plump pieces of flesh, and sweet nectar, drizzled atop a base of bloated wheat. It sounds unusual, but isn't half bad and is super refreshing!"
When Is The Best Time To Travel To Patagonia?
Summer (December and January) has longer days, warmer days and more wildlife activity. But it also has more human activity too so it is a busy time to trek, paddle and ride.
February is a great time to visit as the weather is still fine, wildlife is abundant and humans are less frequently seen.
In March and April, the weather starts to get cooler and the wildlife starts to disappear but so too do humans.
Winter (May, June, July, August, September), some say their favourite time of year. Torres del Paine is dramatic at this time of year and cold. So most trails are limited, refugios are closed, kayaking of course doesn’t happen and wildlife is scarce as are humans.
October is a great time to hike as all trails are open, there is barely anyone out there and wildlife is slowly coming back
November sees the opening of refugios, longer days, warmer weather, and more wildlife and it is just before the busy December part of the season. More humans are out and about as well.
Our favourite months are? October, November and March. A great balance of weather, wildlife, and human activity.
Travel Documents
A valid passport is required by all foreigners travelling to Chile.
Passports must be valid for at least 6 months after your trip concludes (return home date) to allow you to apply for a travel visa.
Chilean Tourist Visa
Australians can enter Chile for up to 90 days for recreational, sports, health, study, business, family or other similar purposes and are required to obtain a valid visa prior to arrival.
Visa and other entry and exit conditions (such as currency, customs and quarantine regulations) can change at short notice.
Check here for the most up to date Chilean Visa advice:
https://serviciosconsulares.cl/tramites/e-visa-para-australia
Check here for the most up to date travel advice:
https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/americas/chile
International guests, please consult your relevant government advisory body.
Accommodation
Accommodation
(IN PATAGONIA)
When trekking, we use a combination of our own EcoCamp, Refugios and tents when required.
Ecocamp accommodation details: Ecocamp Patagonia is located in the heart of Torres del Paine National Park in Chile with views of the majestic granite Paine Towers. It was the first geodesic dome hotel in the world, offering an upscale camp at the domes inspired by the region’s ancient nomadic inhabitants.
We only use Superior or above EcoDomes. These include heating, Queen or two single beds and a private Ensuite. Upgrades to Suites are available (reach out and we can find you the current price which varies over Peak, High, Shoulder & Low season).
Refugios: These are typical mountain huts, open to the public visiting Torres del Paine.
Note: Since Covid, accommodation will be provided in tents (until further notice). The campsite includes access to bathroom facilities. Meals will be served inside the Refugio.
The refugios have rooms for 4-6 people. The beds are single bunks and we will provide you with a sleeping bag and a polar fleece liner (you don’t need to bring a sleeping bag!).
This is an upgrade option, subject to availability.
The bathrooms are shared and they have hot water. The refugios are heated and have a very comfortable dining area where plentiful meals are served.
(ON EASTER ISLAND)
On Isla de Pascua, our sphere of exploration is much smaller, so we’ll be using a single, central location in Hanga Roa as our base, from which we depart and return each day.
Hanga Roa accommodation details:
Our first option will be Hotel O’tai which means “In the Coast” in Rapa Nui language.
As its name implies, the hotel is just steps from the coastline and at the same time, in the heart of the village of Hanga Roa, near all the most important services, it is perfectly located to explore the community on foot during any spare time.
Note: If O’tai Hotel is not available, a similar option will be offered.
Chris says "DO"
"Eat at one of the many oceanfront restaurants in Hanga Roa. With several surf breaks (Easter Island is a bucket list surf destination) near town, you can experience the roar of waves crashing and board rider spotting. Make it a sunset dinner booking for a real treat!"
(IN THE ATACAMA)
Like Easter Island, our sphere of exploration is much smaller, so we’ll have another central base.
San Pedro de Atacama accommodation details:
Our first option will be Hotel Kimal, a boutique hotel in the desert town of San Pedro de Atacama.
In the historical center of town, Hotel Kimal provides a full range of services in a setting of traditional local architecture. With a pool and outdoor hot tub, bar and restaurant open all day.
Note: If Hotel Kimal is not available, a similar option will be offered.
Insurance
Emergency Medical Evacuation Insurance is a requirement for all guests travelling on our expeditions. Once you have booked on an expedition we suggest booking your travel insurance as soon as possible to protect your investment. Trip cancellation insurance will reimburse you for any non-recoverable air or land expenses should you have to cancel your trip due to personal or family illness or leave the expedition early due to other reasons. For our Australian guests, we are offering policies from NIB Travel for adequate cover, and you can contact our office direct, via phone or email, to obtain an insurance quote from us.
For guests travelling with us from outside Australia, please check Travel Insurance options within your Country.
If you should receive an injury 12 months prior to your travel date, you must contact the Insurance Company with details to ensure you are covered for this injury whilst travelling. Should you not do this and require medical assistance for this injury whilst travelling you may not be covered by the insurance company.
In the event that an aircraft evacuation is required, No Roads Expeditions will undertake to arrange the evacuation on the condition that the expenses are reimbursed by the passenger before departing the Country.
Note: Accidents caused by the inappropriate consumption of alcohol or drugs may void your travel insurance.
Get a Quote
While we don’t anticipate any uninvited medical disruptions during your trek, No Roads wants to keep your mind at ease and help you get adequate assistance and cover for your well-earned time away. It is extremely important that we ensure you’re covered during your great alpine experience.
We are able to provide you with Travel Insurance for your trip, allowing you to tick this off your ‘To-Do List” as soon as possible. (We strongly recommend that you take out baggage loss and accident insurance)!
Already have a trusted insurance provider?
That’s no problem at all, our primary concern is that you have adequate cover.
Got a Pre-Existing Condition?
Simply call our Insurance Team and quote the reference number we provide you with and they’ll complete an assessment on your behalf. In many cases, there is no additional premium that needs to be paid! Many common conditions are also automatically covered.
In the event that an aircraft evacuation is required, No Roads Expeditions will undertake to arrange the evacuation on the condition that the expenses are reimbursed by the passenger before departing the Country.
Again, if you’ve any questions, don’t hesitate to ask info@noroads.com.au.
Getting There and Away
INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS
The major entry and entrance point into Chile by air, will be through Santiago’s Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL) served by many direct services to and from Australia, Europe, North America and elsewhere in South America.
The southern city of Puerto Natales is only served seasonally with flights, so at times you may need to fly into Punta Arenas and utilise a transfer service from there.
Anyone looking for a different (and slower) connection, should consider a trip either too or from Puerto Natales by boat (services run between it and Puerto Montt). It is a several day journey through the Chilean Fjords, with ample opportunity for both Dolphin and Whale spotting!
Chris says "SEE"
"Museo de la Memoria y los Derechos Humanos (Museum of Memory and Human Rights) is a museum or memorial like nothing else I've ever seen . A very sobering place, it commemorates the victims of the 17 year Pinochet regime in photo, word and even song. Words are not needed for this experience, so don't be deterred if you're not a Spanish speaker..."
DOMESTIC FLIGHTS – Patagonia
From Santiago, it will be necessary to make your way to either Puerto Natales (PNT) or Punta Arenas (PUQ) for the commencement of any Patagonia expedition.
Note: Puerto Natales will not always have regular services outside of the summer season.
A transfer service will collect you upon arrival and return you for departure (which is why it is imperative that you provide all of your flight details).
DOMESTIC FLIGHTS – Easter Island
Direct services from Santiago, to Easter Island (IPC) are usually available 2 to 3 times per week, operated by LATAM.
The flight arriving from Santiago is usually also the returning aircraft, departing later in the same day.
DOMESTIC FLIGHTS – Calama
All guests travelling to the Atacama Desert will need to fly first to nearby Calama (CJC).
There are usually daily flights, operated by LATAM, as well as low cost operators such as JetSmart & Sky Airline.
NOTE: All flights are at an additional, and individual cost. They are not included as part of the tour booking.
Important Information: The luggage allowance for your domestic flight may differ from your international flight. Please make sure you are aware of your allowance for both, to save yourself any awkward (or expensive) moments at check-in.
About Chile
Somewhat like a 1990’s Supermodel, Chile is tall and thin (the coastline is over 4,000 miles (6,437 kilometers) long, it is only about 61 miles (91 kilometers) wide).
The driest desert in the world (outside of Antarctica), the incredible snow-capped Andes Mountains, beautiful fjords, incredible wildlife, colonial cities and towns… Chile truly is a delight!
About Patagonia
Patagonia is basically the vast southern tip of the South American continent shared by both Argentina and Chile. The Andes extend all the way down to the southern tip and effectively divide the two countries laying claim to Patagonia.
Patagonia has some of the most diverse landscapes and ecosystems on the planet from fjords to 7000-meter peaks, deserts and glaciers. It has been home to humans for over 10000 years and is the backdrop to some of the most epic treks on the planet.
Packing for your trip
PERSONAL GEAR
During the day, you will generally only need to carry a small pack. That said, internal flights within Chile may have a limited baggage allowance (see under Domestic Flights). With this in mind, please try and pack as light and efficiently as possible.
The luggage that is transferred for you during the day should be packed in a duffle bag or a large sports bag. Suitcases are not recommended.
In your day pack, you will carry water, a light rain coat, perhaps some snacks, and whatever else you would like to take (camera, sunscreen, etc).
SLEEPING
This is obviously a personal decision (whatever you feel comfortable in), however, be mindful to remain respectful to the local people
DAY WEAR
Ultimately you want to be comfortable. Consult our recommended packing list, but above, try to ensure that what you wear during your trip, is not being worn for the first time!
OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT
Camera film, Spare camera batteries, lens cleaner & paper. A small supply of favorite snacks – bigger supply for longer and remote area trips. Binoculars, notebook, etc
Note:
If you have any questions regarding the above list or any other items that you want to ask about please contact us. We can provide you additional information at any time.
To download our handy Packing Check List
- Passport
- Insurance Papers (3 copies)
- Tourist Visa
- International Airtickets
- Comfortable clothes for travel
- Plastic Zip Lock bags for paperwork
- Smart clothes for nightlife
- Personal Toiletries (toothbrush & toothpaste, deodorant, etc)
- Hiking Shoes (or sturdy sandals)
- Day Pack
- Rain Jacket
- Water Bottle
- Trekking/Hiking clothes (non-Cotton)
- Sunblock/Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Sunhat
- Insect Repellent
- Swimsuit/Swimshorts
- International Power Adaptor(s)
- Bike Shorts (optional)
- Personal first aid kit to include: painkillers, plasters (band-aids), moleskin, anti-septic cream, after-bite, anti-diarrhoea tablets, throat lozenges, re-hydration salts & personal medication.
Fitness
All guests should ensure they are suitably fit for the expedition. No Roads is not a medical adviser and we take no legal responsibility for medical or other emergencies that may arise on the course of a trek. As the service provider and hosts, we will take all necessary steps needed to evacuate injured or ill clients on the understanding that all costs involved will be paid to us before leaving the country (see Insurance).
We hope this helps you all enjoy your time on the expedition.
Immunization
In order to enter Chile, all travellers must follow the Health Protocol Requirements.
These requirements are fluid and are changing according to international COVID 19 developments. Please click here for more information about arrival requirements in Santiago.
COVID 19 – As part of the Chilean entry requirements proof of a full COVID 19 vaccination status has to be provided when entering the country.
To enter Chile there are no other mandatory vaccinations. However, we suggest you do consult a doctor before you leave your country for vaccination against Hepatitis, Tetanus, and Typhoid.
We adhere to strict hygiene guidelines so all our food is hygienically prepared, cooked and served.
Typhoid: Recommended for Chile. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
Hepatitis A: Recommended for Chile. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
Tetanus: Recommended for Chile. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
Hepatitis B: Recommended for Chile. Ideally 2 months before travel.
Influenza & Rabies are also considered risks in Chile. Please consult your travel doctor for the best means of immunization or risk prevention.
Plan ahead for getting your vaccinations (seriously, vaccinations are one thing that should NEVER be left until the last minute when TIME can truly be your enemy). Some of them require an initial shot followed by a booster, while some vaccinations should not be given together.
You do not need to carry an extensive medical kit as your Trekking Group Leader carries a comprehensive first aid kit for the group and staff. However, we do advise you to carry your personal medicine.
Insect-borne diseases
Outbreaks of Zika virus and Dengue have occurred on Easter Island.
If you’re pregnant, the Australian Department of Health recommends that you:
- discuss any travel plans with your doctor
- consider deferring non-essential travel to Zika virus affected areas
Altitude sickness
You’re at risk of altitude sickness if you travel above 2500m.
Altitude sickness can be life-threatening and can affect anyone, even if you’re fit and healthy.
You’re at greater risk of altitude sickness if you:
- ascend quickly or make rapid ascents at higher altitudes
- have had altitude sickness before
- exercise or drink alcohol before you get used to the altitude
- have lung problems that affect breathing
If you’ll be travelling above 2,500m:
- see your doctor for specific advice
- check your insurance covers emergency evacuation from altitude and related medical costs
WATER
Visitors should drink only bottled water, which is widely available. Do not drink tap water, even in major hotels, and try to avoid drinks with ice. Many hotels and guest houses will have a large jug (think office water cooler) from which you are able to fill your own bottle.
Note: However, no matter how safe the water may be, we insist that all travellers use either water purification tablets such as Aquatab (iodine) or Steri Pen.
WOMEN’S HEALTH
On top of the normal health considerations, women are advised to bring a tube of Canesten and an applicator. The Canesten is used for the treatment of thrush (which can be very painful if left untreated) and can be applied to both internal and external thrush.
Prescriptions can be filled at farmacias and boticas; it’s best to know the generic name of your drug, however, to save time and possible confusion, it is recommended you bring most of your medicinal and sanitary needs with you.
MEDICINES AND FIRST AID
All travellers are recommended to carry a personal first aid kit with medicines for common ailments, cuts and bruises, pain killers, etc. Anyone using any prescription medicines regularly should carry a supply for the whole duration of their expedition. Please consult your doctor and include items and medicines that may be required for you or for the area you are traveling in. No Roads does not supply any medicines and takes no legal responsibility for any medical treatment or professional medical support to our clients.
We will do everything we can to support guests that have disclosed a medical condition, allergy or anaphylaxis, by informing all in-country personnel and ensuring reasonable provisions are made. We do, however, suggest and encourage all guests in this situation to assist us by reconfirming this information in situations or instances where it may be required to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable adventure experience.
*If you have something you are particularly prone to such as ear infections, sinus problems or mild asthma bring what you need with you.
The No Roads Guide will be carrying an extensive Wilderness First Aid Kit.
Your personal first aid kit should contain:
Band aids, Paracetamol, Deep Heat or other muscle liniment, Blister pads, Crepe bandages, Antibiotic cream for cuts and scratches, ‘Imodium’ tablets, Strapping tape (for knees and ankles), Anti chaffing cream e.g. Pawpaw cream, Foot powder, Waterless hand disinfectant, Anti-inflammatory cream, Broad-spectrum antibiotic tablets, Anti-Nausea Tablets.
Money
In Chile, the official currency is the Chilean Peso (CLP).
If carrying funds from home, this money can be exchanged at banks or exchange vendors (look for Casa de Cambio).
Alternatively, you can use your ATM card to withdraw money in most large towns (research if your card type will function abroad, and be sure to alert your bank before you travel so they don’t flag your account for suspicious activity).
Prices in Chile, tend to by slightly higher than neighbouring countries Bolivia or Peru, however is generally cheaper when compared to Australia, North America and most Western European nations.
Note: Prices on remote Easter Island are much higher than continental Chile (being one of the most remote, inhabited places on Earth will do that)
TIPPING
Tipping in many countries can be a problem and can add a great deal of stress to your holiday. Remember Tipping is entirely voluntary and how much you give depends on how you feel about the service you have received, and also how much you can realistically afford.
For greater context for how much of a difference you may be making, Chile has a minimum salary just over US$400 a month. In many of the lower-paid jobs (eg waiters, porters etc) this is not always enforced.
THE ENVIRONMENT
Many of the places you will visit are pristine. As travelers, we should try to have as little impact on these natural environments as possible. As such we recommend the following:
- Please do not dispose of plastic bags and wrappers along the trail. These may be put in your backpack and disposed of at your local hotel at the end of the day.
- Follow the well-marked walking trail (for both your safety and to maintain the integrity of the landscape).
- Do not touch or fed any wildlife spotted on the way as you might cause severe harm to the animal.
By abiding by these simple guidelines, you will be protecting the local environment for the people who live there and for their children’s children.
POWER IN CHILE
For Chile, there are two associated plug types, types C and L. Plug type C is the plug that has two round pins and type L is the plug that has three round pins (type C is generally the most common, and 2 pin adaptors will often work in both socket types). Chile operates on a 220V supply voltage and 50Hz.
PATAGONIA WEATHER
Due to its southern location, Patagonia is of course seasonal. During the Winter months, which run from late April all the way to mid-October, temperatures can drop well below Zero C and daylight hours in June and July are down to around 9 hours per day.
During the warmer months from October to April, temperatures rise to in mid-summer of 22 C with daylight being approximately 17 hours per day.
The wind however is a constant throughout the year. Even in Summer, Patagonia can be hit by snow so warm clothing is a must no matter what time of year you visit it.
EASTER ISLAND (ISLA de PASCUA) WEATHER – Add on Option
With its remote, southern Pacific location, Easter Island lies at the mercy of the elements from all directions.
The climate of Easter Island is subtropical, warm and humid in summer and mild in winter, in fact, the average daily temperature ranges from 23/24 °C (74/75 °F) in the period from January to March to 18.5/19 °C (65/66 °F) in the period from July to September.
The wind blows frequently throughout the year.
Since the island is located in the ocean and at a great distance from the continents, the daily temperature range is reduced. Although the maximum temperatures are usually not too high and are around 27 °C (81 °F) in the warmest period that goes from January to March, they can sometimes reach 28/30 °C (82/86 °F) from November to March, while in winter, from June to September, they reach a maximum of 25/26 °C (77/79 °F).
In the latter period, sometimes at night, it can get a bit cold, in fact, the temperature can sometimes drop down to 7/9 °C (45/48 °F).
Please make sure you have all the items on the packing checklist before you travel to the airport for your flight to Chile.
Torres del Paine Meteorology
As you could imagine, the weather in Torres del Paine can be extreme. The following charts will give you an idea of when is the best time of year to hike in Torres del Paine.
SOME BASIC SPANISH TO GET YOU STARTED
Hello ~ Hola ~ o.la
Goodbye ~ Adios ~ a.dyos
How are you? ~ Que tal? ~ ke tal
Fine thanks~ Bien gracias ~ byen gra.syas
Excuse me ~ Perdon ~ per.don
Sorry ~ Lo siento ~ lo syen.to
Please ~ Por favor ~ por fa.vor
You are welcome ~ De nada ~ de na.da
Yes ~ Si ~ see
No ~ No ~ no
PHRASES
My name is ~ Me llamo ~ me ya.mo
Do you speak English? ~ Habla ingles? ~ a.bla een.gles
PHRASES (continued…)
I don’t understand ~ No entiendo ~ no en.tiyen.do
Where is..? ~ Donde esta..? ~ don.de es.ta
The bill please ~ La cuenta por favor ~ la kwen.ta por fa.vor
Cheers! (To your health) ~ Salud! ~ sa.loo
How much is it? ~ Cuanto cuesta? ~ kwan.to kews.ta
That’s too expensive ~ Es muy caro ~ es mooy ka.ro
SIGNS
Open ~ Abierto
Closed ~ Cerrado
Entrada ~ Entrance
Exit ~ Salida
Toilet ~ Banos
Our Contact Phones & Address
Please make sure to carry our full address with contact numbers (given at the end of this message) in case you need to contact us for any reason.
NO ROADS EXPEDITIONS
In Australia Office : (03) 95988581
24 Hr Access Peter Miller : + 61 425 726 623 Irene Miller: + 61 430 705 222
