The Best Travel Insurance Plans for Chile in 2025
- The best travel insurance plans for Chile
- Is it currently safe to travel to Chile?
- Is travel insurance required by law to enter Chile?
- Why take out travel insurance for Chile?
- What travel insurance for Chile should cover
- The cost of travel insurance for Chile
- How to pay less for your travel insurance to Chile
- Your Current Insurance Coverage in Chile
- FAQ
Travel insurance for Chile: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for Chile covers medical emergencies, repatriation, and unexpected travel disruptions.
2. Key protection: Insurance is not mandatory but is highly recommended due to expensive private medical costs.
3. Healthcare cost: Private healthcare in Chile is expensive, with hospital stays often costing over AUD $1,000 per night.
4. Price: A one-week travel insurance policy for Chile typically costs between AUD $40 and AUD $80.
5. Good to know: Australian citizens must obtain an e-visa before travelling to Chile for tourism purposes.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travellers every month. After analysing 38 travel insurance policies available in Australia, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for Chile.
The best travel insurance plans for Chile
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | AUD 1.6M | Our recommendation for trips to Chile. - high medical cover - flexible conditions - strong customer support |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | AUD 1.6M | Ideal for short or long stays, with reliable service. - 24/7 medical hotline - strong repatriation - medical evacuation |
| Tourist Card | AUD 800k | Practical plan for tourism in Chile. - solid health cover - useful emergency assistance - straightforward terms |
| Travel Pass Monde | AUD 1.1M | Balanced for comprehensive travel needs. - high hospital limits - repatriation - wide regional coverage |
| Globe Partner | AUD 480k | Good choice for international travel with essential protection. - hospital care - repatriation - civil liability |
| Globe Traveller | AUD 800k | Affordable option for standard trips. - essential medical cover - fast reimbursement - reduced limits |
- high medical cover
- flexible conditions
- strong customer support
- 24/7 medical hotline
- strong repatriation
- medical evacuation
- solid health cover
- useful emergency assistance
- straightforward terms
- high hospital limits
- repatriation
- wide regional coverage
- hospital care
- repatriation
- civil liability
- essential medical cover
- fast reimbursement
- reduced limits
Is it currently safe to travel to Chile?
As of June 2025, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) advises travellers to exercise a high degree of caution when visiting Chile, due to ongoing civil unrest and an elevated risk of crime in urban and rural zones.
Here are their four main recommendations.
- Security risks: crime such as mugging, armed robbery, and pickpocketing is common in cities like Santiago, Valparaiso, and Calama, especially after dark or during protests in areas such as Plaza Baquedano.
- Health risks: travellers face high costs at private clinics and must pay upfront for care. Easter Island has reported outbreaks of Zika and dengue, and altitude sickness is a concern above 2,500 metres, for example in San Pedro de Atacama.
- Legal obligations: an e-visa is mandatory for entry for Australians, with strict document checks at immigration, and tourists must keep their tourist card until departure.
- Environmental hazards: Chile is earthquake-prone and subject to volcanic eruptions and wildfires. Air pollution in Santiago is severe from April to October.
Although not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, particularly to cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation, which can be extremely costly in Chile.
Is travel insurance required by law to enter Chile?
No, travel insurance is not legally mandatory for Australian travellers to enter Chile.
Travel insurance is still highly recommended by the Australian Government due to the risk of expensive private medical care, potential evacuation needs and the possibility of natural disasters. Covering medical expenses and emergencies abroad can prevent major unexpected costs and delays.
According to our data, 80% of travellers purchase travel insurance before going to Chile. This high rate reflects the risks and cost of healthcare as well as the country’s advice for well-prepared travel.
Why take out travel insurance for Chile?
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Chile.
In Chile, private hospitals such as Clínica Alemana in Santiago or Clínica Las Condes charge foreign patients for all services, and costs can quickly become very high. Public hospitals are available, but foreign travellers may face language barriers, limited resources and long waiting times in cities like Valparaíso or Concepción.
Travel insurance covers medical expenses, hospitalization costs, medications, ambulance transportation and repatriation costs to Australia in case of a serious issue.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Chile.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at Clínica Alemana | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | 2,400,000 CLP (about 4,150 AUD) | Up to 1,600,000 AUD per claim |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | 1,100,000 CLP (about 1,900 AUD) | Up to 1,600,000 AUD per claim |
| I need to be repatriated | 17,000,000 CLP (about 29,400 AUD) | Up to 1,600,000 AUD per claim |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | 4,800,000 CLP (about 8,300 AUD) | Up to 1,600,000 AUD per claim |
These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions.
It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.
What travel insurance for Chile should cover
Here is a summary table of the main coverages you should look for in a travel insurance policy for Chile.
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Covers medical treatment following accident or illness, including hospital stays and doctor’s fees. Recommended reimbursement limit: at least 1,000,000 AUD. |
| 🚑 Emergency evacuation | Covers the cost of ambulance transport or medical evacuation to Australia if needed. Choose a limit of at least 1,000,000 AUD. |
| ✈️ Repatriation | Includes return to Australia for medical reasons. Opt for a reimbursement limit of at least 500,000 AUD. |
| 👜 Baggage and valuables | Compensation for lost, stolen, or damaged luggage and personal effects. Minimum recommended limit: 3,000 AUD per person or trip. |
| ⛷️ Activities cover | Useful for skiing, trekking, or adventure sports in the Andes. Ensure activities are not excluded and have a limit of at least 50,000 AUD. |
| 💳 Personal liability | Protection if you accidentally harm someone or damage property. Minimum recommended limit: 1,000,000 AUD. |
| 🚫 Trip cancellation | Refunds for non-refundable travel or accommodation costs in case of serious illness, accident, or family emergency. Choose at least 10,000 AUD coverage. |
| 🦟 Epidemic or disaster | Covers costs due to sudden health crises or natural disasters. Confirm coverage up to 250,000 AUD, essential in Chile’s earthquake-prone areas. |
Recommended reimbursement limit: at least 1,000,000 AUD.
Choose a limit of at least 1,000,000 AUD.
Opt for a reimbursement limit of at least 500,000 AUD.
Minimum recommended limit: 3,000 AUD per person or trip.
Ensure activities are not excluded and have a limit of at least 50,000 AUD.
Minimum recommended limit: 1,000,000 AUD.
Choose at least 10,000 AUD coverage.
Confirm coverage up to 250,000 AUD, essential in Chile’s earthquake-prone areas.
Travel insurance from local providers or bank cards often offers limited coverage, with low reimbursement limits and many exclusions. It is safer to choose a trusted insurer with full coverage. Remember to compare the top options on HelloSafe and subscribe online for instant certification.
The cost of travel insurance for Chile
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | 45 AUD |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | 85 AUD |
| 1 month | 35 years old | 115 AUD |
| 1 month | 70 years old | 295 AUD |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
The price of your travel insurance for Chile depends on several factors: your age, the duration of your trip, your destination, the level of cover, and any add-ons like cancellation protection. It's important to keep these in mind to find a policy that fits your needs and budget for your South American adventure.
💡 It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.
👉 Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareHow to pay less for your travel insurance to Chile
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Chile while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 🏥 Level of coverage | High-quality medical care in Chile is expensive, especially for hospital stays and evacuations. | Select a policy with only the essential cover you need to avoid paying for unused benefits. |
| 👤 Traveller's age | Premiums increase significantly for older travellers and coverage options may decrease. | Compare multiple insurers; Heymondo does not increase its prices for people over 62. |
| 🗓 Trip duration | Covering unnecessary extra days raises your premium for no benefit. | Insure only the exact dates of your trip, not additional days before or after. |
| 👫 Number of travellers | Family or group policies can reduce the individual cost per person, especially for children. | Explore family or group plans if travelling with others to maximise discounts. |
| 🏞 Activities planned | Adventure sports and high-altitude trekking are common in Chile and require specific coverage. | Only add adventure sports cover if you plan on such activities, as it increases premiums. |
| 🌍 Area of coverage | Worldwide coverage is pricier, but most travellers to Chile only need South America or global ex-AU. | Select “region-specific” cover for South America rather than worldwide if not needed. |
| 🚑 Excess/deductibles | Higher deductibles lower the upfront cost but require you to pay more if you claim. | Choose a higher excess if you are comfortable paying more out of pocket for small claims. |
Your Current Insurance Coverage in Chile
It’s completely legitimate to wonder whether your existing Australian cover, such as Medicare, private health insurance, or credit card insurance, will protect you during a trip to Chile. Unfortunately, this coverage is often too limited or insufficient for overseas travel needs. Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Valid in Chile? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (Medicare) | Never | No cover for medical or hospital costs overseas, no repatriation, no assistance if sick or injured. | Travel insurance covers up to unlimited AUD for medical costs and evacuation, plus assistance with emergencies. |
| Private health insurance (Bupa, Medibank, NIB) | Limited coverage | May cover some medical emergencies overseas to capped limits (often 2,500-5,000 AUD), no repatriation. | Travel insurance usually provides up to unlimited AUD for emergencies, hospitalisation, repatriation, and more. |
| Classic credit card (ANZ First, Commonwealth Low Rate) | Limited coverage | Sometimes accident cover and travel delay, usually low maximums (often below 5,000 AUD), strict conditions, rarely medical. | Travel insurance can cover medical expenses, lost luggage up to 15,000 AUD and cancellations, which most cards do not. |
| Premium credit card (ANZ Platinum, Westpac Altitude Black, NAB Qantas Signature) | Limited coverage | May include travel accident, baggage, and some medical cover (up to 500,000 AUD), strict eligibility, excess applies. | Travel insurance covers emergencies up to unlimited AUD, includes repatriation, and pre-existing condition options. |
Example
While skiing in the Andes, Liam suffered a severe leg fracture. The private hospital in Santiago demanded AU$45,000 upfront. His CommBank card's complimentary insurance had a low limit for high-risk sports, and his Australian health fund offered nothing, leaving him with a massive out-of-pocket expense for his adventure.
Expert advice
Trip interruption cover for a relative's illness or death is often excluded from bank card and health insurance policies. Always check your policy's PDS carefully to avoid surprises abroad. In any case, it's safer and more reassuring to get dedicated travel insurance tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Chile?
Yes, Australian citizens now require a visa to visit Chile for tourism or business. You need to apply for the e-visa in advance using the SAC Ciudadanos platform. Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your planned date of arrival. It is important to keep your tourist card provided upon entry, as you will need it to exit the country.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Chile?
To buy travel insurance for Chile, first compare policies online using a tool like the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Check what each plan covers and pay special attention to exclusions relevant to Chile, such as medical expenses, evacuation, or adventure activity cover. Once you have selected a plan, buy it online and receive your certificate by email.
What specific risks should travel insurance cover in Chile?
Travel insurance for Chile should cover medical expenses due to illness or accidents, as private healthcare can be expensive. It should also include emergency evacuation, theft or loss of belongings, and coverage for disruptions caused by natural disasters or civil unrest, which are possible risks while travelling in Chile.
Are there any health precautions I should consider before visiting Chile?
Yes, you should be aware of health risks in Chile such as altitude sickness in high regions, and outbreaks of Zika or dengue especially on Easter Island. Vaccinations for hepatitis, typhoid, and influenza are recommended. Safe food and water precautions are also important to avoid common illnesses while travelling.
Does travel insurance cover adventure activities in Chile?
Many travel insurance plans do not automatically cover adventure or extreme sports that are popular in Chile, such as hiking at altitude or skiing. Always review your policy’s terms to ensure that activities you may participate in are included, or consider adding extra coverage for adventure sports if needed.
How quickly can I receive help if I have a medical emergency in Chile?
Most travel insurance providers offer 24/7 emergency assistance hotlines, which you can call from anywhere in Chile. They can arrange for medical care, hospital admission, and sometimes medical evacuation if necessary. Private hospitals in Chile may require upfront payment, so your travel insurer’s support can be vital in urgent situations.
Do I need a visa to travel to Chile?
Yes, Australian citizens now require a visa to visit Chile for tourism or business. You need to apply for the e-visa in advance using the SAC Ciudadanos platform. Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your planned date of arrival. It is important to keep your tourist card provided upon entry, as you will need it to exit the country.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Chile?
To buy travel insurance for Chile, first compare policies online using a tool like the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Check what each plan covers and pay special attention to exclusions relevant to Chile, such as medical expenses, evacuation, or adventure activity cover. Once you have selected a plan, buy it online and receive your certificate by email.
What specific risks should travel insurance cover in Chile?
Travel insurance for Chile should cover medical expenses due to illness or accidents, as private healthcare can be expensive. It should also include emergency evacuation, theft or loss of belongings, and coverage for disruptions caused by natural disasters or civil unrest, which are possible risks while travelling in Chile.
Are there any health precautions I should consider before visiting Chile?
Yes, you should be aware of health risks in Chile such as altitude sickness in high regions, and outbreaks of Zika or dengue especially on Easter Island. Vaccinations for hepatitis, typhoid, and influenza are recommended. Safe food and water precautions are also important to avoid common illnesses while travelling.
Does travel insurance cover adventure activities in Chile?
Many travel insurance plans do not automatically cover adventure or extreme sports that are popular in Chile, such as hiking at altitude or skiing. Always review your policy’s terms to ensure that activities you may participate in are included, or consider adding extra coverage for adventure sports if needed.
How quickly can I receive help if I have a medical emergency in Chile?
Most travel insurance providers offer 24/7 emergency assistance hotlines, which you can call from anywhere in Chile. They can arrange for medical care, hospital admission, and sometimes medical evacuation if necessary. Private hospitals in Chile may require upfront payment, so your travel insurer’s support can be vital in urgent situations.
