Security

In the City

Santiago and most other cities are fairly safe. As in any city however, there are certain neighbourhoods in the outskirts that are more dangerous and should be avoided by night. Also, it is not advisable to let strangers approach you or wear expensive jewellery. Keep valuables out of sight and be particularly alert to pickpockets in within the Metro and buses. Very important: in restaurants and cafés never leave your valuables behind your seat or unattended.

Hotels

Backcountry areas are quite safe either in established campgrounds or out in the wild. One of the most common dangers is getting lost or stranded when hiking in the mountains. If you are travelling without a guide, please inform Carabineros or the Andean Rescue Service ('Cuerpo de Socorro Andino') about your itinerary. Take into account that the weather is unpredictble especially in the mountains but also that it is a very cold environment, even during summer. Go prepared.

Women travelling alone

It is becoming very common to see women travelling alone in Chile, especially to places frequented by tourists. Chileans is very kind to foreigners even outside the cities and the country has a culture of respect towards women. However, we do not recommend women to hitchhike, unless with travelling families.
It is very normal for Chilean men to be very open with compliments, ("piropos") and these can sometimes be rude. The best to do is ignore such behaviours. It is best to avoid construction sites, as workers are known to be particularly vociferous with these "piropos".

Minor details aside, Chile is a secure place for women to travel on their own.

Emergency Numbers

Ambulances: 131
Firefighters: 132
Police:133
Investigator Police: 134 
Mountain Rescuers: 136
Corporación Nacional Forestal (Conaf): 130 
General Informations: 103