Find Cheap Flights to Chile and Book Your Budget Air Tickets

Summer is the high season in Chile. Expect clear skies, warm temperatures, and the largest influx of tourists, which impacts the prices of cheap flights to Chile.

Autumn is an excellent shoulder season. The weather is mild, the colors are beautiful in the south, and prices for budget air tickets to Chile begin to drop after summer.

Winter is the low season, except in the ski areas. It is the best time to find flight deals to Chile and enjoy the snow in the Andes Mountains.

Spring is an excellent season, with pleasant temperatures and blossoming landscapes. It is a good time to find better flight prices Chile before the summer peak.

Spanish citizens do not need a visa for tourist stays of up to 90 days in Chile. Only a valid passport for at least six months from the date of entry is required. Upon arrival, you will receive a Tourist Card (valid for 90 days), which you must keep until your departure. Make sure you also have a return or onward ticket, as it may be requested upon entry. This process is simple, unlike other destinations in America.

Chile's long and narrow geography means internal transportation varies greatly. For long distances (such as flying from Santiago to Punta Arenas or Iquique), domestic flights are the fastest option and often the most convenient if you find cheap flights to Chile. Within cities, the Santiago metro is efficient and safe. For medium distances, intercity buses are modern and comfortable, offering high-quality services. In rural or tourist areas, consider renting a car for greater freedom, although southern roads can be challenging. Remember that, just like in Spain, you drive on the right.

Chile offers a wide range of accommodation, from luxury hotels in Santiago and Valparaíso to budget hostels and cabins in the south. In large cities, you can find options similar to those in Spain. To save money, look for 'hospedajes' or 'residenciales', which are more local and personal. Book in advance, especially if you are traveling in high season (December to February) or if you are looking for cheap Santiago Chile tickets. Use comparison sites to ensure the best prices and read reviews from other travelers to avoid surprises. In the Atacama desert, consider accommodations that offer stargazing experiences.

Chile is generally safe, but as in any tourist destination, you should take precautions. In Santiago and Valparaíso, be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas and on public transport. Avoid displaying valuables or carelessly using your mobile phone in the street. App-based taxis are safer than street taxis. If you go on an excursion, hire registered guides and never venture alone into national parks without informing them of your route. Keep copies of your important documents separate from the original. Scams are rare, but caution is your best ally.

Chileans are known for being friendly and formal. The usual greeting is a kiss on the cheek (even between strangers if they are women or between a man and a woman). Punctuality is important, although there may be some flexibility in social gatherings. As in Spain, the after-dinner conversation is valued. A tip: avoid comparing Chile with Argentina or Peru, as they highly appreciate their unique identity. Tipping (propina) is common in restaurants (around 10%) and is expected for good service. Learning some phrases in 'chilenismos' will earn you smiles, but standard Spanish is sufficient.

Chilean food is robust and varied. Don't miss the 'Pastel de Choclo' (a stew covered with sweet corn), the 'Empanadas de Pino' (meat, onion, olives, and egg), or the 'Cazuela' (a hearty broth). On the coast, seafood is fresh and excellent. Chilean wine is world-famous; try the Carmenère and Sauvignon Blanc varieties. For drinking, the 'Pisco Sour' is the national cocktail. A local tip: look for 'picadas', small, unpretentious restaurants where the food is homemade and very cheap. Dinner time is later than in other countries, similar to Spain, around 8 or 9 PM.

Due to Chile's length, planning well is crucial. A two-week trip is usually divided between the north (Atacama), the central area (Santiago, Valparaíso), and the south (Patagonia). If you are looking for cheap flights to Chile, consider focusing on one region. Packing should be versatile: you will need light clothing for the desert and Santiago in summer, and thermal layers for Patagonia. Never forget sunscreen and sunglasses, even in winter. A good tip from TICKETS.COM.ES: for a spectacular photo, visit the Valley of the Moon at sunset, near San Pedro de Atacama, where the desert colors are unreal.