Internet & Calling in Chile
Internet Access & Telephones
Internet and Phones
From the Atacama Desert to the mountains and glaciers of Patagonia, plus fantastic vineyards, Chile is the perfect place to relax and disconnect. That said, for those who have to stay connected, here are our tips:
Most hotels in Chile provide internet access (sometimes at a cost) and international telephones – although for calling home, you will likely receive better rates using an internet-based phone service such as Skype or WhatsApp. Do not expect good WiFi access in all locations, especially in remote lodges and on cruises. In remote parts of Patagonia WiFi should not be relied upon.
For heavy internet users, a service such as Skyroam, a wireless hotspot device, may be your best option for connecting to the internet in Chile. GlocalMe is another good hotspot option. If you plan on bringing your smartphone to Chile, make sure to remember to leave it on airplane mode to avoid any roaming charges. Just enable WiFi to access the Internet.
We don’t recommend buying a cell phone or sim card in Chile. There are often long waits, non-English speaking employees and local ID may be required. In addition, if you are traveling to multiple countries within South America, you will most likely need to buy a sim card for each. The easiest option for travel to Chile is to get a plan with your carrier in your home country that allows you to make emergency calls and/ or receive texts. If you do choose to buy a sim card in Chile, ask your guide where they recommend finding one and make sure your telephone is unlocked. Before traveling, consider checking about international call options and prices with your network provider.
Electrical Adaptors
When traveling to Chile, we recommend taking an electrical adapter on your trip. Some hotels in Chile provide adapters, but you should not rely on this. Before using adapters make sure to check the voltage of your electronic device to ensure that you have a charger equipped to handle a higher voltage. If not, you will need to use a voltage converter.
Chile uses plug types C and L. The standard voltage is 220 V and frequency 50 Hz.
This means:
- When traveling from the USA or Canada to Chile, you will need an electrical adaptor and voltage convertor.
- When traveling from Australia or New Zealand to Chile, you will need an electrical adaptor.
- When traveling from the UK, Ireland, Malaysia or Singapore to Chile, you will need an electrical adaptor.
- When traveling from South Africa to Chile, you will need an electrical adaptor.
