Health Risks

Medical certificates and vaccinations are not required to enter Chile except when arriving from infected areas. Take precaution against hepatitis, and gastroenteritis, as these are present in Chile. Avoid eating raw seafood, unpeeled or unwashed vegetables and fruits. Tap water in the cities is considered safe for drinking, however, be careful when going to some rural areas. Diarrhea is common among travellers who may have a bad reaction to the water and some foods.

To be safe, stick to bottled water and choose well-cooked foods. Health standards have improved over the years in Chile. Recently, private hospitals have sprouted offering efficient and reliable health care. There is plenty of bottled water to buy in small stores and supermarkets, but always ask for mineral water "sin gas" otherwise you'll get seltzed water.