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 your travel insurance for Chile should cover
- The cost of travel insurance for Chile
- How to pay less for your travel insurance to Chile
- Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Chile?
- FAQ
Travel insurance for Chile: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for Chile covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and other unforeseen travel incidents.
2. Key protection: Travel insurance is not mandatory for Canadians but is strongly recommended for financial and medical protection.
3. Healthcare cost: Private healthcare in Chile is expensive, with hospital stays costing over $800 CAD per night.
4. Price: A one-week travel insurance policy for Chile typically costs between $30 and $60 CAD.
5. Good to know: Be prepared to show proof of sufficient funds for your stay upon arrival in Chile.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travellers every month. After analyzing 38 travel insurance policies available in Canada, 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 | CA$1.5M | Excellent for Chile. Offers full scope protection, suitable for emergencies and unrest. - high medical ceiling - repatriation - evacuation |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | CA$1.5M | Versatile for city or rural travel. Good support for complex risks. - 24/7 helpline - hospitalization - trip cancellation |
| Tourist Card | CA$770k | Tailored for classic tourism. Solid hospital support at a fair price. - hospital admission - accident care - affordable |
| Travel Pass Monde | CA$1.1M | Suits longer stays and adventure travel in Chile. - extensive medical care - repatriation - emergency evacuation |
| Globe Partner | CA$465k | Useful for short city breaks and excellent basic cover. - medical care - liability protection - prompt reimbursement |
| Globe Traveller | CA$770k | Reliable for safe tourism in Chile. - emergency hospitalisation - medical evacuation - reasonable ceiling |
- high medical ceiling
- repatriation
- evacuation
- 24/7 helpline
- hospitalization
- trip cancellation
- hospital admission
- accident care
- affordable
- extensive medical care
- repatriation
- emergency evacuation
- medical care
- liability protection
- prompt reimbursement
- emergency hospitalisation
- medical evacuation
- reasonable ceiling
Is it currently safe to travel to Chile?
As of June 2025, the Government of Canada advises travellers to exercise a high degree of caution when visiting Chile, mainly due to ongoing demonstrations and civil unrest in key urban areas.
Here are their four main recommendations.
- Security risks: protests and civil unrest are frequent in Santiago (Plaza Italia/Plaza Baquedano), Valparaíso, and Concepción. These events can turn violent, often disrupting transit and public services for several hours.
- Health risks: outside of Santiago and major cities, medical facilities may be limited. There are also risks from mosquito-borne diseases like dengue and chikungunya in some regions, making timely access to healthcare important.
- Legal constraints: strict rules apply to arrivals, including an online SAG affidavit for all animal and plant products entering with travelers. Minors traveling without both parents need a notarized, apostilled, and translated authorization letter.
- Financial requirements: proof of funds is mandatory, with officials requiring at least the equivalent of USD $46 per day of stay. The tourist card received upon arrival must be presented when leaving.
Although not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended by the Government of Canada, 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 mandatory for Canadian travellers to enter Chile.
However, it is strongly recommended by both Canadian and Chilean authorities, as private healthcare in Chile can be expensive, and travel outside major cities may make medical evacuation necessary. Having robust insurance ensures access to quality care and covers unexpected emergencies.
According to our data, 80% of travellers purchase travel insurance before going to Chile. This is mainly because private health services and repatriation costs are high, and unpredictable events like civil unrest can occur.
Why take out travel insurance for Chile?
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Chile.
In Chile, foreigners often rely on private hospitals such as Clínica Alemana or Clínica Las Condes in Santiago, where medical fees can be significantly higher than in the public system. Outside major cities, medical infrastructure is limited and transport to advanced care may be required.
Travel insurance covers medical fees, hospitalization, medication, ambulance transport and emergency repatriation to Canada in the event of a serious incident.
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 | CLP 2,000,000 (CA$3,000) | up to CA$1,500,000 |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | CLP 1,000,000 (CA$1,500) | up to CA$1,500,000 |
| I need to be repatriated | CLP 12,000,000 (CA$18,000) | up to CA$1,500,000 |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | CLP 4,500,000 (CA$6,800) | up to CA$1,500,000 |
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 your travel insurance for Chile should cover
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Covers hospital and clinic care in case of illness or accident. Recommended reimbursement limit: CA$500,000. |
| 🚑 Emergency evacuation | Pays for medical transport to the nearest qualified facility or back to Canada. Recommended limit: CA$200,000. |
| 💊 Medications | Covers prescribed medicines following an accident or illness. Recommended limit: CA$5,000. |
| ✈️ Trip cancellation | Refunded non-refundable trip costs if you have to cancel for covered reasons. Recommended limit: CA$5,000. |
| 🧳 Lost/stolen luggage | Reimburses for baggage loss, theft, or delay. Recommended limit: CA$2,500. |
| 🚗 Personal liability | Covers legal liability or injuries to others or property damage abroad. Recommended limit: CA$1,000,000. |
| 🦴 Sports/adventure cover | Covers injuries during activities like trekking or skiing in the Andes. Recommended limit: CA$25,000. |
Recommended reimbursement limit: CA$500,000.
Recommended limit: CA$200,000.
Recommended limit: CA$5,000.
Recommended limit: CA$5,000.
Recommended limit: CA$2,500.
Recommended limit: CA$1,000,000.
Recommended limit: CA$25,000.
Travel insurance from local providers or bank cards often has low coverage limits and many exclusions. It is safer to select a reputable insurer offering comprehensive protection. Compare leading offers on HelloSafe and subscribe online for instant proof of coverage.
The cost of travel insurance for Chile
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | CA$24 |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | CA$33 |
| 1 month | 35 years old | CA$52 |
| 1 month | 70 years old | CA$98 |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
The cost of travel insurance is influenced by several factors: your age, trip duration, destination, coverage amount, and optional add-ons like cancellation insurance. For your trip to Chile, keeping these elements in mind is key to finding the right coverage at a fair price, ensuring you travel with peace of mind.
💡 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 | Medical care and repatriation from Chile can be very expensive for Canadians in emergencies. | Choose a policy with essential hospital and medical evacuation cover to reduce costs. |
| 👤 Traveller's age | Insurance is often more expensive for older travelers, especially over 60, in many plans. | Some providers, like Heymondo, do not increase prices for those over 62, so compare age-related rates. |
| ⏳ Trip duration | Costs rise with longer coverage, especially for extended stays in South America. | Select exact trip dates for your insurance, rather than the maximum eligibility period. |
| 🧑🤝🧑 Number of travelers | Group or family policies may be cheaper per person than individual plans for a trip to Chile. | Opt for a group or family policy if applicable to benefit from volume discounts. |
| 🏥 Deductible/Excess | A higher deductible usually lowers your premium, but increases your share of expenses if needed. | Choose the highest deductible you can comfortably afford for a lower premium. |
| 🌍 Annual/multi-trip plan | Frequent travelers to South America can save with an annual policy rather than multiple singles. | Consider a yearly plan if making two or more trips, even if one is to Chile. |
| 🏞️ Activities covered | Adventure sports cover increases costs and is only needed if planning risky activities in Chile. | Select cover for specific activities only if you plan to do them to avoid unnecessary costs. |
Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Chile?
It is completely legitimate to wonder whether your current insurances, such as Canadian public health insurance or credit card insurance, can cover your trip to Chile. Unfortunately, this coverage is often limited or insufficient. 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 (provincial health plan) | Never | No direct coverage for medical costs in Chile, only possible partial reimbursement after return, no repatriation or local hospitalisation. | Travel insurance covers up to CA$1,000,000+ for medical fees, hospitalization, repatriation, and 24/7 local assistance. |
| Private health insurance (Manulife, Sun Life, Blue Cross) | Limited coverage | Possible partial reimbursement (after return), maximum between CA$10,000-CA$100,000, often no repatriation or on-site assistance in Chile. | Travel insurance offers up to CA$1,000,000+, direct foreign hospital payment, and full emergency evacuation during your stay. |
| Classic credit card (TD Classic, CIBC Aventura, RBC Visa Classic) | Limited coverage | Emergency medical coverage only (CA$25,000–CA$50,000), excludes trip cancellation, baggage, and many pre-existing conditions. | Travel insurance provides much higher medical limits, trip interruption, lost baggage, and minimal age or pre-condition restrictions. |
| Premium credit card (Visa Infinite, Amex Gold, World Elite MC) | Limited coverage | Medical emergency up to CA$500,000, limited or no coverage for repatriation, cancellation, or dangerous activities, strict conditions apply. | Travel insurance covers up to CA$1,000,000+, includes adventure activities, cancellations, and provides reliable local support. |
Example
While trekking in Patagonia, Liam suffered a severe ankle fracture. The emergency evacuation and surgery in a Santiago clinic cost CA$25,000. His RBC Avion card's included insurance had a low limit, covering only CA$2,000, and his provincial plan covered almost nothing. He was left with a shocking CA$23,000 bill.
Expert advice
Your credit card or provincial health plan may not cover trip interruption for a relative's illness or death. Always read your policy's fine print to avoid costly surprises abroad. In all cases, it's safer and more reassuring to purchase dedicated travel insurance tailored to your specific trip.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Chile?
Canadian citizens do not need a visa for tourist stays of up to 90 days in Chile. Upon arrival, you receive a Tourist Card, which must be presented when leaving the country. Make sure your passport is valid for the entire duration of your stay and has at least one blank page for the entry stamp.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Chile?
To buy travel insurance for Chile, first compare available plans using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool to find the best fit for your needs. Carefully check policy coverages and exclusions, especially those relevant to travel in Chile. Purchase the selected plan online and receive your certificate by email within minutes.
What are the risks of traveling to Chile without travel insurance?
Without travel insurance, you may face high medical costs, especially in private clinics. Emergency evacuation, including helicopter rescue from remote areas, can result in overwhelming bills payable on the spot. Travel insurance also covers unexpected incidents such as trip interruptions or theft that are not reimbursed by your public insurance.
Can I get travel insurance that covers adventure activities in Chile?
Yes, many insurers offer policies covering activities like trekking, mountain biking, or surfing, which are popular in Chile. However, you must check that your chosen plan specifically lists coverage for risky sports. Certain extreme activities, such as mountaineering, may require additional protection or be excluded.
How much does travel insurance for Chile typically cost for Canadians?
For a two-week trip to Chile, a standard travel insurance policy for a healthy adult typically costs between CA$35 and CA$80, depending on the level of coverage and optional add-ons. Prices may increase if you add cancellation, high medical limits, or coverage for high-risk sports or pre-existing conditions.
Do I need a visa to travel to Chile?
Canadian citizens do not need a visa for tourist stays of up to 90 days in Chile. Upon arrival, you receive a Tourist Card, which must be presented when leaving the country. Make sure your passport is valid for the entire duration of your stay and has at least one blank page for the entry stamp.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Chile?
To buy travel insurance for Chile, first compare available plans using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool to find the best fit for your needs. Carefully check policy coverages and exclusions, especially those relevant to travel in Chile. Purchase the selected plan online and receive your certificate by email within minutes.
What are the risks of traveling to Chile without travel insurance?
Without travel insurance, you may face high medical costs, especially in private clinics. Emergency evacuation, including helicopter rescue from remote areas, can result in overwhelming bills payable on the spot. Travel insurance also covers unexpected incidents such as trip interruptions or theft that are not reimbursed by your public insurance.
Can I get travel insurance that covers adventure activities in Chile?
Yes, many insurers offer policies covering activities like trekking, mountain biking, or surfing, which are popular in Chile. However, you must check that your chosen plan specifically lists coverage for risky sports. Certain extreme activities, such as mountaineering, may require additional protection or be excluded.
How much does travel insurance for Chile typically cost for Canadians?
For a two-week trip to Chile, a standard travel insurance policy for a healthy adult typically costs between CA$35 and CA$80, depending on the level of coverage and optional add-ons. Prices may increase if you add cancellation, high medical limits, or coverage for high-risk sports or pre-existing conditions.
