Lakes Region : Formalities and administrative procedures

Lakes Region : Organize your stay

Money Lakes Region

Chile's national currency is the Chilean peso (denominated in $, while the US dollar is denominated in US$). The Chilean peso is relatively stable in relation to the dollar and European currencies, as a result of the neoliberal economic policies implemented in the early 1980s. US dollars and euros are generally accepted in hotels, and entitle you to deduction of the IVA (19%). Other currencies are less widely used and therefore traded at less attractive rates. You'll often hear the expression "luca", which means 1,000 pesos. " Dame 3 lucas " means "Give me 3,000 pesos".

In Argentina, the official currency is the Argentine peso (also marked $), which is divided into 100 centavos (centimes). Beware, the rate in Argentina is very (very!) volatile. In recent years, the peso's meteoric depreciation has given tourists more than their money's worth: the current economic climate is benefiting foreigners in the face of uncontrollable inflation. So beware of the prices for Argentine Patagonia given in the guide: although updated when the guide is published, they vary from month to month and from season to season. Prices in this guide (but also on site) are often quoted in US$, making them less volatile.

Exchange rates in January 2025. In Chile: €1 = $1,032; $1,000 = €0.97. In Argentina: €1 = $1,065; $1,000 = €0.94.

Budget & Tips Lakes Region

Despite the many similarities between the Argentine and Chilean lifestyles, we think it's important to separate the budget you need to allocate to each destination. First of all, Patagonia is more expensive than anywhere else in Chile or Argentina. In fact, Chilean Patagonia is far from cheap.

In Chilean Patagonia. Generally speaking, prices are higher on the Route Austral than in the more developed Magellanic South. But it all depends on how you travel... Here are three examples to help you plan your daily budget.

Small budgets, if well equipped, will be able to count on between $10,000 and $15,000 per person for a room (less for camping); between $3,500 and $6,000 for a menu; buses are relatively expensive on the Route Austral; hitchhiking can work, however, if your schedule is flexible. Less than $20,000 a day is pretty unrealistic... or you'll have to cut back on extras like excursions and guided tours: don't panic, though, as many hiking, walking and other options are free of charge: yes, fortunately, nature remains accessible to all (as long as you respect it, of course).

For average budgets, you should expect to pay between $15,000 and $35,000 per person for accommodation, with meals costing between $5,000 and $10,000, plus outings, excursions and transport. Expect to pay between $30,000 and $50,000 per person per day. Bigger budgets can expect to pay between $50,000 and $90,000 per person for accommodation; between $10,000 and $20,000 per meal; and can easily do without buses and opt for air travel (although this is much more expensive and not always justified). Expect to pay no less than $60,000 to $80,000 per person per day, especially if you want to indulge in excursions, outings and restaurants.

In Argentine Patagonia, prices may seem similar to Chile, but transportation is more expensive where restaurants are less so. However, the country, which is currently in the throes of an economic crisis and is seeing the peso plummet, is banking on tourism to attract dollars. Paradoxically, this is a real godsend for tourists, who will be able to afford a trip that's certainly cheaper than expected, without having to restrict themselves. As in the case of Chile, we'd like to give you a few pointers to help you plan your budget, but once again, please note that this may change over the coming months and years. That's why we try to display prices in dollars (US$) whenever possible. Inflation in Argentina is a real scourge.

Small budgets can expect to pay between US$15 and US$30 per person in a dormitory, between US$8 and US$20 for camping; around US$10 and US$15 for a menu or tenedor libre ("free fork", i.e. all-you-can-eat dishes or buffet); transport fares have rocketed in recent years... expect to pay between US$15 and US$50 for fairly long distances (over 5 hours' travel), and between US$70 and US$130 for almost 20 hours' travel (a Bariloche - Buenos Aires trip, for example). Of course, add the extras (excursions, outings, etc.). Around 50 - 60 US$ per day is a realistic assumption if you're really short of cash and looking for the cheapest addresses (if you're cooking or eating empanadas, for example), but a little idealistic if you intend to make the most of it.

For average budgets, expect to pay around US$50 per person for accommodation; meals around US$20. Allow at least US$80 to US$120 per person per day. For a double room, higher budgets should expect to pay from US$ 100; gourmet meals from US$ 30 to US$ 60 per person; as usual, excursions and transport (plane if necessary) at extra cost. Expect to pay around US$200 per person per day to be in heaven, and much more if you don't count.

Passport and visas Lakes Region

Passports and visas. European Union citizens do not need a visa to enter Argentina or Chile. You must present a valid passport (still valid six months after the date of return). A three-month residence permit will then be stamped in your passport (free of charge). To renew your residence permit, it's much simpler to leave the country and re-enter (a new stamp for three months). A trip to Patagonia easily lends itself to this border crossing.

You will only need a visa if you wish to stay for more than three months (if, for example, you wish to apply for a working vacation permit). For other nationalities, please contact your nearest consulate.

All passports issued in France are now biometric. They include your photo, fingerprints and a secure chip. To obtain a passport, go to the town hall with a tax stamp, proof of address, a piece of identification and two passport photos. The passport is issued in around three weeks and is valid for ten years. Children must have a personal passport (valid for five years). Before you leave, remember to photocopy all the documents you take with you. In the event of loss or theft, this will make it much easier to renew your passport with the consular authorities. You can also keep copies on the official website (mon.service-public.fr). Simply create an account and scan all your identity papers and other important documents into the confidential area.

Working Holiday Permits. Every year, Argentina and Chile welcome young French people under the Working Holiday Program, a temporary visa that allows you to travel for a year while working to finance your trip. To qualify, you need to meet a few prerequisites: have a valid French passport, be aged between 18 and 30 in Chile, or between 18 and 35 in Argentina, and have 2,500 euros at your disposal when you enter the country. Since the start of this program in 2011 in Argentina and 2015 in Chile, quotas have been imposed, but these have been revised upwards in recent years. Chile welcomes 400 French nationals and 750 Canadians per year, while Argentina welcomes 1,000 French nationals per year. Most PVT participants devote themselves to woofing missions: in the Patagonian countryside, the agricultural and livestock sectors are recruiting! You'll be able to experience working on a farm and assist with a wide range of odd jobs. Many PVT participants also land odd jobs in the tourism industry. The procedure is similar in both countries. You'll need to complete and submit a file to the Argentine or Chilean consulate in your country. To complete your application, you'll need to gather together a number of documents, such as a letter of motivation, a medical certificate, an extract from the criminal record and an insurance quote. Also note that in Chile, applying for the PVT has been a two-stage process since summer 2019: in addition to compiling the application, the Chilean authorities have added an additional stage on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website. Finally, while the application is free in Argentina, you'll need to pay a fee of 115 euros (or 135 US$ for Canadians) when you collect your visa for Chile. For more information, visit www.pvtistes.net

Driver's license Lakes Region

In both Chile and Argentina, you can use the driver's license issued by your country of origin (France, Belgium, Switzerland or Canada), although we ideally advise you to opt for an international license, valid for up to three years. Even if police checks on your pink card are generally lenient, insurance companies will certainly not be in the same frame of mind in the event of an accident or mishap. So you'll need an international driver's license, or you can get one on the spot. In Chile, officially, you can't drive for more than three months, even with an international license. In this case, you'll need a local permit. This costs the equivalent of $20,000, and includes a 35-question theory test, a medical examination and a driving test. You'll also need proof of residence in the commune where you're taking the test (if you don't have any, ask a friend for proof of accommodation), a RUT (valid Chilean identity card), and a certificate of your driver's license diploma translated into Spanish and stamped by the embassy of the issuing country in Chile.

However, even if we have to tell you about these formalities, you should be aware that this is a theory that is rarely applied, and that in the majority of cases, Chilean police and rental agencies don't seem to care about these procedures. To rent a vehicle, the minimum age is 21 in both Chile and Argentina, although this may vary depending on the type of vehicle. For a 4x4 or campervan, for example, some agencies will not rent a vehicle under the age of 25. To cross the border from one country to another, you'll need to show proof of authorization to drive in the country concerned. In the vast majority of cases, this authorization is provided by the vehicle rental agency. Last but not least, insurance is compulsory, and a certificate must be presented at every check. In Argentina, the maximum blood alcohol level is 50 mg per 100 ml of blood. In Chile, restrictions are much stricter: zero tolerance has applied since 2012, so don't take any chances, it could cost you dearly.

Health Lakes Region

Some sanitary particularities exist in Chile or Argentina but as a general rule cosmopolitan diseases (such as influenza, ENT, lung or urinary infections) are more to be feared than tropical diseases! The seasons are reversed compared to Europe (we are in the southern hemisphere) and the diseases follow this trend: viruses such as the flu also occur during the winter, from June to August. Traveling in this country does not require any particular health precautions or vaccinations. However, the risks of hypothermia do exist for unprepared or ill-equipped hikers: weather conditions can indeed be extreme and do not count on diligent help. Don't forget that the wind is sometimes very violent: remember to protect your body, your neck, your hands, but also your lips.

Security Lakes Region

Like any self-respecting megalopolis, Buenos Aires can arouse feelings of insecurity that are unfortunately well-founded. The crime rate is high, and not a day goes by without a newspaper report of a snatch, bank robbery or shooting. So avoid walking around at night, especially in the train station districts of Retiro, Constitución and Once. Also, make sure you blend in with the crowd and avoid dressing up as a tourist: you'll be easy prey for pickpockets and other snatchers.

In Santiago, there are a few minor acts of delinquency, but with a certain amount of vigilance, nothing should happen.

In Patagonia, no problem: people are very hospitable and will bend over backwards to help you, and if you're unlucky enough to be hassled, you can be sure that the locals will come to your defense and raise their voice. Single women should, unfortunately, avoid walking around at dusk and at night, and be indifferent to the "piropo" culture. A typical Latino compliment of admiration, it can sometimes be disrespectful and insistent: clear, precise answers are enough to ward off the most assiduous. Generally speaking, they're not dangerous, just heavy-handed.

Last but not least, danger also lies in the so-called "natural" hazards: volcanic eruptions, landslides, earthquakes... Patagonia rumbles regularly.

For the latest information on safety in Patagonia, consult the "Conseils aux voyageurs" section of the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs website (www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/voyageurs). Be aware, however, that the site provides an exhaustive list of potential dangers, which can sometimes give a rather alarmist picture of the country's actual situation.

Time difference Lakes Region

The time difference with France is 4 hours during the Argentine summer (reversed from ours) and 5 hours during the winter. So, in January, when it's 8 p.m. in Paris, it's 4 p.m. in Argentina. On the other hand, in July, when it's 8pm in Paris, it's 3pm in Argentina.

Chile and Argentina have an hour's difference in winter (move your watch forward one hour when going from Chile to Argentina, move it back one hour when going from Argentina to Chile), but they have the same time in summer (unless Argentina again decides to impose daylight saving time). The time difference with France is 4 hours during the Chilean summer (reversed from ours) and 6 hours during the winter. So, in January, when it's 8 p.m. in Paris, it's 4 p.m. in Chile. On the other hand, in July, when it's 8pm in Paris, it's 2pm in Chile.

Spoken languages Lakes Region

Spanish, often called castellano (Castilian), is the official language in Chile as in Argentina. English is spoken by some tourist service providers (hotels, car rental agencies...), but do not believe in miracles... especially in Patagonia! German can be an alternative in the South, especially in the Lakes region... You should not rely too much on French during your trip, even if it is always possible to find an establishment run by a compatriot.

Communication Lakes Region

Telephone coverage is excellent in the vicinity of Buenos Aires and Santiago: outside these areas, the further south you go, the more capricious the network will be. In some remote areas, only the satellite phone works, and even then. On the Ruta 40, for example, between Esquel and El Chaltén, the network is almost non-existent, and the same thing along the Carreterra Austral. If you take a mobile subscription specifically for Argentina or Chile, check the coverage because it could be limited to a few cities or a single area. Also note that some French operators allow you to use your subscription in a foreign country without going over budget. You can then benefit from unlimited calls, SMS and internet. As far as Wifi is concerned, it is offered for free but it is not yet present everywhere: in El Chaltén for example it is still practically non-existent. But the Internet terminals and self-service computers, although still present, tend to disappear gradually from the landscape.

Electricity and measurements Lakes Region

The alternating current is 220 volts. However, in some places in Argentina, if the old plugs are like ours, they are gradually being replaced by flat plugs (three plugs arranged in a triangle). In this case, an adapter is required. Chile and Argentina use the metric system.

Luggage Lakes Region

Of course, it all depends on the season and the region. Here are a few useful tips when packing. First of all, opt for a soft-sided bag of between 50 and 80 liters, and forget about clamshell suitcases: with the long distances you'll be covering, your suitcases are likely to get roughed up, and we can't guarantee that the terrain will always be stable enough to roll them on! Above all, don't forget that the seasons are reversed. In the icy, windy regions of Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego, the cold is generally the order of the day, and in order to be perfectly prepared, you'll need to observe a few basic rules. When it comes to clothing, make sure you respect the three-layer principle: the under-layer must be thin, thermal and breathable (this is a garment with insulating properties to prevent loss of body heat), for the second layer opt for a fleece and for the third and final layer choose something waterproof and hard-wearing: a down jacket or a heavy windbreaker. Top it all off with light, waterproof pants, gloves, a scarf and a hat. Even in midsummer, the cold wind can chill your bones.

Experienced hikers will set out on the Patagonian trails fully equipped and prepared. Trekking in these latitudes is dangerous, both for your skin (reduced ozone layer) and your endurance (strong winds, difficult routes, etc.). Don't go off the beaten track unless you're an experienced walker and have the necessary equipment (compass, GPS, etc.). In addition to your wardrobe, don't forget sun cream (despite the cold, the sun's reflection can be treacherous), sunglasses, waterproof shoes, chapped-lip stick, a flashlight, a few basic medicines, a water bottle or reusable bottle and a waterproof bag in case of heavy rain! It's a good idea to remember to bring an adapter for three-prong flat plugs, such as those increasingly used in Argentina.

Lakes Region : Daily life

Hello? Lakes Region

The international dialing code for Argentina is 54 and 56 for Chile.

In both Chile and Argentina, the WhatsApp application is widely used for communication: most establishments and infrastructures (hotels, agencies, restaurants...) have a WhatsApp number, and you can easily make reservations by sending a message. In fact, most telephone packages offer unlimited access to the application. However, if you're coming to Chile with your own cell phone and want to take advantage of 4G, you'll need to register your phone before buying a prepaid card (around $5,000) and using it in your own mobile (if it's been de-locked). Since 2016, this can be a tedious process, as Chilean law requires all foreign phones to be registered within 30 days of your arrival. You don't have to pay. Visit www.multibanda.cl to use the Chilean network freely: you can also buy a cell phone locally (Entel, Movistar, Claro...), the cheapest costing around $15,000 to $20,000.

Accessibility Lakes Region

Despite slight progress in this area, particularly in hotels, travel in Patagonia remains a challenge for people with reduced mobility. In cities, buildings and public transport are increasingly equipped with access ramps and reserved areas. What's more, national parks offer reduced or even free fares. However, for a trip in the best possible conditions, it's best to go through a specialized agency that will be able to customize your stay: the Korke agency (www.korke.com) offers trips adapted for wheelchair users and people with reduced mobility.

Last but not least, if you want to travel to Patagonia with your children, it's safe to bring them along! However, the lack of infrastructure in the Deep South and the long days of trekking mean that conditions are not optimal when traveling with small children.

Health Lakes Region

All regions, whether in Argentina or Chile, have hospitals, clinics and health centers. Specialized centers, however, are found in the major cities. Pharmacies are also to be found in all regions, although you'll have a harder time finding them on the Carretera Austral, along Ruta 40 and in Tierra del Fuego.

Hygiene. Water is drinkable everywhere in Chile and Argentina, or very close to it. In Patagonia, it's even very good... even excellent when it flows directly from the glaciers into your flask or bottle (try to buy a reusable flask or bottle). However, it is not advisable to drink tap water if you have a sensitive stomach, at least in certain isolated regions. Likewise, avoid seafood or raw vegetables that seem dubious, fruit that has already been peeled (peel it yourself), buffets (exposed to flies), unsterilized dairy products, and fresh fruit juices in the street (as far as possible, even if it's nice to have on a trip). This will prevent traveler's diarrhea and other similarly transmitted diseases such as viral hepatitis (including hepatitis A), amoebae, salmonella and others..

Emergency numbers Lakes Region

In the event of problems, dial 131 in Chile and 107 in Argentina for ambulance services, and 132 in Chile and 100 in Argentina for the fire department. We also recommend that you contact the embassy or consulate of your home country, which is responsible for protecting and assisting citizens abroad.

Securty Lakes Region

Patagonia is probably one of the safest regions in the world! Pickpocketing is not impossible in the major urban centers during peak tourist periods: but you'd be out of luck if anything were to happen to you during your trip! The greatest danger, in fact, is the weather: if you're going hiking, don't take it lightly. Trails are not always well defined (although they are perfectly organized in the most famous parks), and rescue services are not very diligent... you're often at the end of the world! Don't forget that a storm can follow a day of clear blue skies. Hikers would be well-advised to equip themselves accordingly to prevent all the little (and bigger) mishaps.

LGBTQ Lakes Region

In Chile as in Argentina, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Questioning or Two-Spirited people are generally well received, even if in small villages you may be surprised by the resistant reaction of some people in need of benevolence. In larger cities, you'll find more establishments promoting these values of respect, support and non-judgmental equality. Friendly accommodations or agencies organize tailor-made holidays (cruises, skiing, visits to natural sites...) and are particularly open and welcoming to members of the LGBT community. Argentina was a pioneer in Latin America when it legalized same-sex marriage on July 15, 2010, marking a significant step forward for LGBTQ+ rights. In Chile, although homosexuality has been legal since 1998, it is still frowned upon in some conservative circles. It's worth noting that, among the local population, the subject is rarely discussed, although it is not taboo (as is sexuality in general).

Embassies and consulates Lakes Region

The role of French consulates is to protect their country's nationals when they are outside their country of origin. Embassies, on the other hand, play an essentially diplomatic role, representing a state within another country. During your stay, in the event of loss of passport, financial difficulties, serious accident or other difficulties, you should contact the consulate. France has an embassy in Santiago de Chile and an embassy in Buenos Aires. Consulates can be found in Ushuaia, Río Gallegos, San Carlos de Bariloche, Esquel and Trelew in Argentina, and in Osorno, Punta Arenas and Temuco in Chile (cl.ambafrance.org). Swiss nationals should contact the consular agencies in Buenos Aires, Santiago and Temuco (www.eda.admin.ch), while Belgian nationals should contact the consular agencies in Buenos Aires, Santiago, Temuco, Punta Arenas or Ushuaia (www.diplomatie.belgium.be/fr).

Mail Lakes Region

Post offices (Correos de Chile or Correo Argentino) are located in almost every town and are open weekdays from 9am to 5pm, and on Saturdays from 9am to noon. It takes between three weeks and a month to send mail to Europe. To send mail to Chile, you need to label the envelope as follows: Last name + First name - Address (street + number) - Colonia (district for Santiago) - City - Region (optional) - Chile. In Argentina, Correo Argentino is present throughout the country, but mailboxes are rare. The easiest way is to go to an office and post your mail there directly. OCA is a much more expensive service, and its prices are only justified for urgent items. In larger towns, the central post office is generally open Monday to Friday from 8am to 8pm, and until noon on Saturday mornings. In smaller towns, the post office also takes a siesta and doesn't open on Saturdays.

Local media Lakes Region

In Argentina and Chile, there are local TV and radio stations in the major cities. Among these, Radio Mitre and Continental are the most listened-to radios in Argentina, and Telefe and El Trece are the most watched channels. In Chile, TVN, Canal Trece and Mega are the most popular channels, alongside Radio Chilena and Radio Corporative. From news bulletins and political news to the latest musical hits and cultural features, the media enjoy total freedom of expression.

But in Patagonia, although in most cases the region is covered by public television channels, there are few local media. There are, however, several daily and weekly newspapers on sale in the various regions and provinces. The best-known and most widely read are La Prensa Austral (laprensaaustral.cl) in the Magallanes region, Punta Arenas' main daily, El Diario del Fin del Mundo (eldiariodelfindelmundo.com) in the Tierra del Fuego region of Argentina, Diario Jornada (www.diariojornada.com.ar) in the Chubut province of Argentina and El Divisadero (www.eldivisadero.cl), in Chile, covering the Coyhaique and Aysén regions.

Last but not least, radio is not always easy to pick up, due to the lack of signal and towns close enough together, but it remains the most widely used medium, the indispensable tool for connecting with the civilized world in such a vast region. At the local level, magazines and brochures are also distributed free of charge and made available to travelers and tourists. As well as learning about local news, you'll be able to take advantage of good recommendations.