Money and duty free for Chile

Currency and Money

Currency information

Chilean Peso (CLP; symbol CH$) = 100 centavos. The local symbol is simply $. Notes are in denominations of CH$20,000, 10,000, 5,000, 2,000 and 1,000. Coins are in denominations of CH$500, 100, 50, 10, 5 and 1, although 5 and 1 are now very rare.

Credit cards

Credit cards are commonly accepted in towns and cities, but bring cash if you are heading to smaller shops or rural areas.

ATM

ATMs are widely available.

Travellers cheques

Travellers' cheques are no longer popular.

Banking hours

Mon-Fri 0900-1400.

Currency restrictions

The import and export of local and foreign currencies is unlimited, however amounts exceeding the equivalent of US$10,000 must be declared.

Currency exchange

Foreign exchange transactions can be conducted through commercial banks, casas de cambio, or authorised shops, restaurants, hotels and clubs. Casas de cambio are open daily 0900-1900 (Mon-Sat) and 0900-1400 (Sun). Ask for bills in smaller denominations.

Chile duty free

Overview

Banned Imports

Food (fruit, vegetables, meat and meat products) cannot be imported unless you have the appropriate documents and permits. Discard any uneaten food given to you by the airlines upon arrival.

Other banned items include used cars, drugs and pharmaceutical products.