Chile – Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution Advisory Issued May 20, 2026
The health risk indicator was added. There were no changes to the advisory level. Updated to include Health Information.
Exercise increased caution in Chile due to crime and civil unrest.
Health
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has issued a Level 1 Travelers’ Health Notice for Andes virus (Hantavirus) in the region. The risk for most travelers is extremely low; the United States is working with international partners to investigate and prevent further viral spread. Review the CDC’s Travelers’ Health Notice for more information on Andes virus.
Country Summary: Street crime (e.g., muggings, pick-pocketing, theft) is common in Chile. Rates of violent crime, such as assaults, homicide, carjackings, and residential break-ins, are increasing.
Large-scale demonstrations periodically occur in Santiago and other cities in Chile. Demonstrations can take place with little or no notice, and often result in disruptions to transportation, including public bus and Santiago metro services.Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Chile.
If you decide to travel to Chile:
- Do not leave luggage unattended, even in locked vehicles.
- Always carry a copy of your U.S. passport and visa (if applicable). Keep original documents in a secure location.
- Avoid demonstrations.
- Follow the instructions of local authorities including movement restrictions and obey all curfews.
- Find a safe location and shelter in place if in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests.
- Review the Country Security Report for Chile.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
- Follow the U.S. Embassy and Department of State on Facebook, Instagram, and X/Twitter.
- Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
- Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
Source: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/chile-travel-advisory.html
Originally Published: May 20, 2026