VPNs and other tools worth installing before you go, curated for travelers visiting Chile.
Chile does not require a special emergency or utility app for short-stay visitors. Before departure, enable Apple's Find My or Google's device-finding service, use a strong passcode, hide message previews, set account recovery and record the carrier, bank and insurer contacts needed if the phone is stolen. Street theft often targets a phone that is visible on a restaurant table, beside a car window or near the curb. Plan routes indoors, avoid walking while focused on the screen, and prioritize your safety rather than resisting a robber. Chile's SAE sends geolocated emergency messages to compatible phones for threats such as tsunamis, volcanic eruptions and wildfires. It is automatic and uses the cellular alert system rather than a traveler app, but an imported handset or roaming setup should not be treated as guaranteed. Pay attention to sirens and instructions from SENAPRED, police, park staff and local authorities. In coastal areas, move to the signed safe zone after a strong or prolonged earthquake without waiting for an app notification. Check official risk and evacuation maps before sleeping near the coast or visiting a volcanic area. Call 133 for police, 131 for an ambulance and 132 for fire services; 137 is the maritime emergency number and 136 is Andean rescue. Save those numbers plus your accommodation and consulate offline. If the phone is lost or stolen, secure the line and financial accounts from another device, then obtain a police report when safe and practical.
These apps need data
Guac eSIM covers Chile with plans from $1.50 per GB. Install it before you land and activate instantly.
Chile does not require a special emergency or utility app for short-stay visitors. Before departure, enable Apple's Find My or Google's device-finding service, use a strong passcode, hide message previews, set account recovery and record the carrier, bank and insurer contacts needed if the phone is stolen. Street theft often targets a phone that is visible on a restaurant table, beside a car window or near the curb. Plan routes indoors, avoid walking while focused on the screen, and prioritize your safety rather than resisting a robber. Chile's SAE sends geolocated emergency messages to compatible phones for threats such as tsunamis, volcanic eruptions and wildfires. It is automatic and uses the cellular alert system rather than a traveler app, but an imported handset or roaming setup should not be treated as guaranteed. Pay attention to sirens and instructions from SENAPRED, police, park staff and local authorities. In coastal areas, move to the signed safe zone after a strong or prolonged earthquake without waiting for an app notification. Check official risk and evacuation maps before sleeping near the coast or visiting a volcanic area. Call 133 for police, 131 for an ambulance and 132 for fire services; 137 is the maritime emergency number and 136 is Andean rescue. Save those numbers plus your accommodation and consulate offline. If the phone is lost or stolen, secure the line and financial accounts from another device, then obtain a police report when safe and practical.
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