Chile, the world’s narrowest country, stretching like a ribbon along South America’s west coast, welcomed over five million international visitors in 2024. Known for its natural wonders, Chile attracts nature lovers with its unique landscapes, including the Marble Caves, Patagonia, and the Atacama Desert. Even Easter Island, located over 3,600 kilometers off the coast, is famous for its stone statues and preserved Polynesian culture due to its isolation.
However, despite these attractions, Chile is facing rising safety concerns. The U.S. State Department recently updated its travel advisory, raising the country’s rating from Level 1 (“Exercise Normal Precautions”) to Level 2 (“Exercise Increased Caution”). This new warning, which reflects growing concerns over crime and civil unrest, places Chile alongside countries like Mexico, France, and Germany.
The advisory highlights common street crimes such as muggings, pickpocketing, and theft, along with an increase in violent crimes like assaults, carjackings, and burglaries. Additionally, large-scale protests are becoming more frequent in Santiago and other major cities.
Earlier this year, the U.S. Embassy in Santiago specifically warned of a rise in carjackings. While these concerns primarily affect major cities, they do not extend to Chile’s more remote regions, which continue to be popular with travelers.
