Travelling to Chile?

Secure the best rates for Chilean currency online.

Prepare for your Chile adventure! Convert pound sterling to Chilean pesos at Manor FX today. Get the best exchange rate for Chilean pesos and have more CLP to enjoy.

Get speedy home delivery and enjoy our straightforward online ordering process. 

Securely receive Chilean peso banknotes at your home or office the next working day. Or collect them from our Manor FX bureau near Heathrow.

Chilean travel money

Set off to Chile well-prepared. Here are helpful insights about cash, card payments, costs, and more in Chile.

Where can I buy Chilean pesos?

Planning a trip to Chile and need some local currency? Here are a few ways to get Chilean pesos:

• Specialist currency exchange providers like Manor FX. Opt for a trusted provider and compare rates and delivery options (Hint: we offer the best rates nationally!)
• Prefer online shopping? We can deliver Chilean pesos straight to your door. Enjoy the same superb exchange rates at our bureau de change in Datchet.
• High street currency exchange offices or bureaux de change in city centres and airports.
• Local travel agencies, some providing currency exchange services.

Chilean pesos are not as commonly found as major currencies. They’re not typically available at most banks or the Post Office. Plan ahead and compare rates and fees for the best exchange deal.

Remember to check the latest travel advisories and restrictions before buying foreign currency.

Can I buy Chilean pesos in the UK?

Yes, you can, though Chilean pesos are less common. 

Dreaming of exploring Santiago or the Atacama Desert? Get your Chilean pesos in the UK with us.

We guarantee top rates and deliver currency right to your doorstep, no matter where you are in the UK.

Should I exchange money before I travel to Chile?

Definitely. Exchange some GBP to Chilean pesos before your trip.

You could exchange pounds for pesos on arrival, but it’s better to have local currency when you land. Avoid hassles and poor airport exchange rates.

What currency should I take to Chile?

Bring Chilean pesos for travel in Chile. Taking some US dollars is also a smart idea.

Can I use my bank card in Chile?

Yes, most international hotels and large shopping malls in major Chilean cities accept international debit and credit cards.

However, British cards might not work in some Chilean payment terminals, particularly in smaller shops and remote areas.

Merchants may also have a minimum spending requirement for card payments.

Be aware that some British banks charge for international card payments. 

Your bank’s CLP to GBP exchange rate might not be favourable. This is one way banks make a profit.

Contact your bank before using your card in Chile to prevent your card from being blocked.

Should I bring cash to Chile?

Yes, especially for travelling within Chile. Cash is often the preferred payment method. Having cash is also useful for bargaining and securing better deals.

Many smaller shops, particularly in less urban areas, only accept cash. This includes greengrocers, butchers, newspaper stands, street food vendors, and candy stores.

Is it better to use cash or credit card in Chile?

Carrying cash is advisable. Credit cards are accepted in major cities and tourist spots, but smaller establishments and local markets often prefer cash. Some places might even give cash discounts. However, having a credit card as a backup is a good idea.

How can I avoid ATM fees in Chile?

Most Chilean ATMs charge withdrawal fees, especially with foreign cards. Here’s how to avoid these fees:

• Exchange your pounds to Chilean pesos before leaving the UK.
• Seek ATMs without withdrawal fees for certain foreign cards.
• Withdraw larger amounts less frequently to reduce ATM charges.
• Use your card for purchases to avoid ATM fees.

Is Chile cheap for tourists?

Chile’s cost for tourists can vary greatly depending on your travel style and the regions you visit. Here’s a breakdown:

• Accommodation. Prices range from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Hostels and guesthouses are affordable, especially outside major cities. Upscale hotels in popular areas like Santiago or Patagonia can be pricey.
• Food and dining. Local eateries, street food, and markets are budget-friendly options. Dining in high-end restaurants, particularly in tourist areas, can be expensive.
• Transport. Public transport is relatively cheap. Long-distance buses are a cost-effective way to travel between cities. Renting a car or taking domestic flights can increase your expenses.
• Attractions and activities. Many natural attractions are free or have a small entrance fee. However, guided tours can be costly, especially in areas like the Atacama Desert or Torres del Paine.
• Shopping and souvenirs. Local markets and street vendors offer reasonable prices. High-end shops and tourist-centric stores will have higher prices.
• Tipping and additional costs. Tipping is customary in restaurants and for services, adding to the cost. Also, consider additional costs like travel insurance and any visa fees.

Chile can be budget-friendly if you opt for more economical choices. Think staying in hostels, eating at local spots, and using public transport. 

It can become expensive if you choose luxury accommodations. We’re talking about dining at upscale restaurants and participating in guided tours or activities in tourist hotspots.

How much cash should I take to Chile?

The amount of cash you should take to Chile depends on various factors. The duration of your stay, travel style, and planned activities all play a part. Here’s a general guideline:

• Daily expenses. For budget travellers, around 20,000 to 30,000 Chilean pesos (£20 to £30) per day can cover basic expenses like meals, public transportation, and minor purchases. This is for modest dining and using economical transport options.
• Accommodation. If you haven’t prepaid for lodging, consider the cost per night. Hostels and budget hotels might range from 10,000 to 20,000 pesos (£10 to £20) per night, while mid-range or luxury hotels can cost much more.
• Activities and tours. Set aside funds for any specific activities you plan to do, like wine tours, guided treks, or museum entries. These can range from a few thousand pesos to much more for premium experiences.
• Emergencies and miscellaneous. Have some extra cash available for unexpected expenses or emergencies.
• Credit or debit cards as backup. While carrying cash is recommended for smaller transactions and rural areas, it’s also a good idea to have a credit or debit card for larger expenses or in case you need additional funds.
• ATM access. Remember that you can withdraw cash from ATMs in Chile, though this may come with fees.
• Duration of stay. Multiply your estimated daily budget by the number of days you’ll be in Chile for a total estimate.

For a moderate travel experience, budgeting around 20,000 to 30,000 Chilean pesos per day is a good starting point. This excludes accommodation and activity costs.

Adjust this amount based on your travel preferences and your planned activities. Always have a bit extra for emergencies and unexpected expenses.

How does tipping work in Chile?

Tipping is customary in restaurants and cafes. Tips are vital for staff income. Typical tips range from 5% to 10%, more for exceptional service.

Chilean currency

Chilean peso banknotes

Chilean banknotes come in various denominations, featuring significant figures, landscapes, and cultural symbols.

Denominations include $1000, $2000, $5000, $10000, and $20000. Avoid accepting discontinued or extremely old banknotes.

Chilean currency may include slightly worn banknotes. Always handle currency carefully, avoiding damaged or counterfeit notes.

Chilean peso coins

Chilean coins range from 1 to 500 pesos, depicting national symbols and denominations.

Ensure you’re handling genuine coins to avoid counterfeit currency.

Leftover Chilean peso coins? Our sister company, Leftover Currency, can help you exchange them back into cash.

Chile’s currency import and export regulations

Importing currency to Chile

Currently, there are no restrictions on bringing foreign currency into Chile. This includes both cash and traveler’s checks. 

If you carry a total value equal to or greater than $10,000 (or its equivalent in other currencies), you must declare it to customs upon arrival. 

Exporting currency from Chile

Like the import regulations, you can take foreign currency out of Chile without any restrictions. 

However, if the total value equals or exceeds $10,000, it must be declared to customs upon departure.

Chilean pesos

There are no restrictions on the amount of Chilean Pesos (CLP) you can bring into or take out of the country. 

However, carrying large amounts of local currency is less common, and it’s advisable to have a mix of local currency and USD, especially for large transactions or emergencies.

Buy Chilean pesos online

With Manor FX, order your Chilean Pesos online and get the best Chilean peso rate. 

Receive them securely at your home or office. Or pick them up from our travel money shop near Heathrow. Click here to convert pound sterling to Chilean pesos.

Selling back Chilean pesos

Have Chilean pesos to sell? Follow this link to exchange Chilean pesos to pounds and get the best pesos exchange rate. Select ‘CLP Chilean peso’ under ‘sell currency’. We offer competitive rates when you convert Chilean pesos to GBP. 

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