Before I went to Chile, I can tell you guys, that my mom was convinced I was heading into some kind of danger. She was showing me the Chilean crime rates compared to the German level and earthquake reports in the news. Well, after five times and a total of over 6 months in multiple regions of Chile, I want to give some insights to share about safety in Chile (note: from a blonde European, non-spanish speaker point of view). So, is it safe? Here’s what I found.
General Safety in Chile: Use Common Sense
Let’s start with the most obvious: street safety. My wife’s family is from Valparaíso, and we have many friends in Santiago, so I’ve had plenty of firsthand experiences in both cities. Like any big city, they each come with their challenges, but walking around during the day is usually fine as long as you’re mindful of your belongings.
Now, let me be honest: as a blonde, European looking guy, I received some comments and curious or uncomfortable looks, especially in certain neighborhoods. There were moments when I pulled out my phone for just a few seconds, only to have strangers pass by and say, “Cuidado” which means “Be careful!” While most people mean well, and it’s a friendly reminder, it can feel overwhelming when it happens frequently.
My Street Safety Tips:
- Uber Over Public Transport or Collectivos: This is especially important at night. Using a service where your ride is tracked adds an extra layer of safety for me. Also Chilean Uber is really affordable (compared to my German and US experiences)!
- Public Transport in Santiago vs. Other Cities: The bus and train system in Santiago genuinely impressed me; it’s clean, efficient, and far better than what I’m used to in Berlin. However, outside the capital, public transport is much less reliable and harder to navigate.
- Keep Your Phone in Your Pockets: Markets, train stations and touristic areas are hotspots for pickpockets, so keep your phone in your pocket unless needed.
- Don’t flex your valuables: If you’ve got a brand new Rolex or expensive jewelry, it’s probably best to leave it at home.
- Know the Neighborhoods: Providencia and Las Condes? Safe and laid-back. Downtown Santiago or Valpo at night? Definitely riskier, so use common sense and avoid walking alone after dark. Especially if you are alone and/or drunk! I have heard many stories of people getting mugged in the streets and around 99% they were alone, drunk or both – so just avoid this! 😉
- I was often advised not to speak English in certain areas, as it could attract unwanted attention and mark me as a tourist. Speaking basic Spanish helps blend in and shows respect for the local culture, making interactions smoother and safer.
- Intercity Travel: Traveling on buses like Pullman or Flixbus is very safe and a great way to get around.
- Most importantly: if you ever feel unsafe, trust your instincts and move away from the area.
The Overall Experience:
Despite these precautions, I never faced any real danger. In fact, I found most Chileans to be incredibly warm and welcoming. Following basic street smarts will go a long way in ensuring a safe and enjoyable trip.
Earthquakes: Living on Moving Ground
Now, this is the big one. If you’re heading to Chile, you will hear about earthquakes. They’re definitely part of life there. Imagine my first one: I’m sitting in a bar, chatting with friends, and then suddenly, the glasses start shaking, and the sound is like a bomb exploded next to the bar. But how did the locals react? They screamed in laughter and clapped! My friends said to me “Welcome to Chile”. It turns out it was just a little one, probably a 5.5 or so, but enough to make my heart race. My mom was right after all :D.
Why You Can Feel Safe:
- Earthquake-Resistant Buildings: Most new buildings, especially in larger cities like Santiago or Valparaíso, are constructed to withstand huge earthquakes. Chile’s building codes are some of the most rigorous in the world.
- Prepared Population: Schools, workplaces, and public areas often conduct regular earthquake tests. People know exactly what to do when the ground starts to move.
- Honest Advise: If you feel a quake, stay calm, find shelter under a big table or in between a door, or follow what the locals do. They’ve experienced it many times and know how to respond.
Tsunamis: The Alarm You’ll Never Forget
I never thought I’d experience a tsunami warning in my life, but Chile had other plans. One afternoon, while taking a nap, I suddenly woke up by this horrible noise. Not just my phone – it was literally every phone in the city going off at once. My heart dropped. My wifes brother started laughing. It was a tsunami warning triggered by a volcanic eruption all the way in Tonga that sent shockwaves across the Pacific.
Thankfully, this was mostly precautionary, but it showed how seriously Chile takes these warnings. If you’re near the coast and get a tsunami alert:
- Move to higher ground quickly. Don’t hesitate; these warnings are there for a reason.
- Listen for updates. Chile has an effective emergency broadcast system, so keep an ear out for instructions.
- Stay calm. Most times, these warnings don’t result in an actual tsunami, but it’s good to stay prepared.
To be honest, most Chileans really seem to know which of those warnings they should take seriously. When we received our tsunami warning, it was interesting to see how calm everyone was. The city of Viña del Mar was still bustling, with people going about their day, and some even swimming in the ocean as if nothing had happened. Later in the news I saw one report, that a few people had to be rescued in the ocean, but no one (gladly) died.
Wrapping It Up: The Real Take on Safety in Chile
Looking back, the biggest lessons were to stay aware and be smart. Yes, you need to watch your stuff, especially in busy or poorer areas. Yes, earthquakes happen, but the country is ready for them. And yes, there are occasional tsunami warnings. But the reality? Chile is modern, organized, and, for the most part, safe. Millions of people live their lives there just like anywhere else, and as a traveler, you can, too.
My advice? Use common sense, respect local customs, and prepare a little for natural disasters – not out of fear, but because it’s just smart. And remember, I got through my trip with barely any Spanish and no major issues. If I can do it, you absolutely can.