Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Most nationals of countries that have diplomatic relations with Chile don't need a visa.
Upon entering, customs officials issue a tourist card, valid for 90 days and renewable for
another 90; authorities take it seriously, so guard it closely to avoid the hassle of repla-
cing it. If arriving by air, US citizens must pay a one-time reciprocal entry fee of
US$160, valid for the life of the passport; Canadians pay US$132 and Australians
US$95.
Temperature-sensitive travelers will quickly notice a difference after leaving energy-
rich Argentina: in public areas and budget accommodations central heating is rare;
warmer clothing is the norm indoors.
US cash is not widely accepted. Prices here are given in Chilean pesos (CH$).
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Punta Arenas
0612 / POP 130,700
Today's Punta Arenas is a confluence of the ruddy and the grand, witnessed in the elab-
orate wool-boom mansions, the thriving petrochemical industry and its port status. Visit-
ors will find it the most convenient base to travel around the remote Magallanes region,
with good traveler services. Watch for more cruise-ship passengers and trekkers to re-
place the explorers, sealers and sailors of yesterday at the barstools - but save a spot for
the old guard.
Founded in 1848 as a penal settlement and military garrison, Punta Arenas was con-
veniently situated for ships headed to Alta California during the gold rush. The economy
took off only in the last quarter of the 19th century, after the territorial governor author-
ized the purchase of 300 pure-bred sheep from the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas).
This experiment encouraged sheep farming and, by the turn of the century, nearly two
million grazed the territory.
