Chile - Communications

International dialling code for Chile is +56.

WiFi

WiFi is widespread in towns of any size (not villages) and often free to customers. Marinas generally have free internet.  In some cases, this means connecting your computer to a cable, but many have WIFI (you just need the key to connect).

SIM Cards

These can be purchased in the Kiosk areas of larger supermarkets and phone stores in towns (normally costs $2,000-$4,000 but comes with at least some of that as credit).  Top-up credit can be purchased in the smallest of villages.

ENTEL has the best coverage, but it is also a little more expensive.  Other providers are WOM, Movistar, Claro. Most have all 'Social Media' data use as free (i.e. Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp) - so you don't have to purchase a data plan for these, and if you have a data plan, your data isn't reduced when using these apps.  Many businesses use WhatsApp.

Most providers will send you a text message when your data plan is 50% and 80% and ALL used. Ask at the store when you purchase your SIM what numbers are required to enter to check your balance and to view/select plans (each provider differs).

Note that the websites that allow for easy top-up and data use checks etc. require you to register with a Chilean ID number - impossible for a visitor. This means that to check your balance actually costs you. There are also no options to manage the menu/help/top-up info in English, so you will need to learn a few Spanish words.

Data plans seem to provide data at a reasonable speed (i.e. can watch you-tube videos), but plans are generally for low amounts of data.

ENTEL coverage includes Easter Island, and WOM has an Easter Island 'Package'. It is recommended to buy a data plan before arriving on Easter Island if possible.

Last updated:  March 2018.