Chile is a popular destination among South American countries. The Andes, the vibrant capital Santiago, the street art mecca Valparaiso or the Atacama Desert are just a few of the attractions that attract many backpackers every year. In this article we tell you how you should behave in Chile and which cultural peculiarities are waiting for you.
Welcome to Chile, the exotic among the South American countries! Although many things work the same here as in neighboring Argentina, Peru and Bolivia, there are a few small differences that you should know before your trip.
Language confusion and a moderate temperament
Chileans are rather introverted compared to other South American cultures. Compared to Europe, however, they are still very outgoing and sociable. However, if you compare Chile to countries like Colombia, the difference in temperament is still evident. Machismo is also very widespread here, a type of male pride that is exaggerated by European standards.
Another difference: Chilean Spanish is almost a language of its own. With many indigenous loan words and a singsong peculiar to Chileans, it is difficult to understand everything at first, even for experienced Spanish speakers. After a few days, however, you will be quite familiar with the language – you won’t get very far with English, especially in rural areas. A Spanish course before the trip or directly there is a good idea.
Kisses left, kisses right and flexible views on punctuality
In Chile, you don’t stand out with your usual greeting rituals. Men shake hands or give each other a pat on the back, women are greeted with kisses – by all sexes.
Punctuality is not a virtue in the German sense in Chile either. Delays of up to an hour are not only normal, but are also taken into account. You will even get your host into trouble if you show up on time. Long-distance traffic is a bit more orderly – buses and planes are usually on time.
Reading tip: How to pack your backpack – The 5 most common mistakes when packing and how to avoid them
Say it through the flower
Another cultural difference that can trouble a Northern European is how to deal with honesty and directness. Chileans feel attacked by blunt statements and would never speak their mind as directly as Germans if something doesn’t suit them. On the contrary, they often prefer to lie rather than talk straight.
If you want to criticize in Chile, you should practice the high art of hidden messages and learn to read them. Then you’ll know where you stand without making unnecessary waves. In addition, Chileans pay close attention to the gestures and facial expressions of their counterparts and deduce a lot from them.
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Casual conversation, well-groomed appearance and two curiosities
Normally, people address each other by their first names and without titles. Older people are addressed as “Don” or “Doña” before their first name. By the way, you never answer the phone with your full name, but usually with a short “hola”.
In Chile, the smell of sweat and a general lack of personal hygiene is a big no-go. Even though you may not always look your best as a backpacker, you will automatically gain more respect if you have a certain basic level of hygiene.
Dress-wise, women are not as conservative as in Europe: skimpy skirts and high heels are everywhere, but normal jeans and sneakers are also okay. Men do well to wear a T-shirt or shirt even in high temperatures.
Finally, we have two curious tips for you. First, there is often no toilet paper in public restrooms. Chileans carry their own. You also don’t throw it into the bowl, but into a separate bucket. By the way, this is also widespread in Asia, as it prevents clogging.
Secondly, when you take the bus, thank the driver before you get off. This is sure to score you points with the locals and please the driver.
Quick facts about Chile
- Official language: Spanish
- Form of government: republic and presidential democracy
- Population: approx. 17.5 million
- Capital: Santiago de Chile (approx. 5.2 million inhabitants, without catchment area)
- Currency: Chilean peso (CLP)
- Time zone: UTC -4 (mainland)
- Climatically best time to travel: December to March
- Climatically warmest period: November to March
- Telephone area code: +56
Planning a trip to Chile? You can also find a lot of information on https://www.chile.travel/en/.
