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Reviewed: 31 March 2010, 15:46 NZDT
Still current at:
03 September 2010
There is high risk to your safety in the regions of Maule, Biobio and O’Higgins and we advise against all tourist and other non-essential travel to these areas due to earthquake and tsunami damage, and the ongoing risk of aftershocks.
An 8.8 magnitude earthquake centred near the city of Concepcion, 317 kilometres south-west of Santiago, struck Chile on 27 February 2010. Aftershocks measuring between 5.0 and 6.2 magnitude continue to be felt daily, mostly in the Maule, Biobio and O’Higgins regions and recently in the Atacama region as well. Further aftershocks can be expected.
The Chilean government has designated the regions of Maule, Biobio and O’Higgins (6th, 7th and 8th regions) as “States of Catastrophe.” There is extensive damage to critical infrastructure in these regions. Travel within Chile is difficult in parts due to earthquake damage to roads and other major infrastructure – particularly south of Santiago. Communications throughout Chile are improving, but may also be affected at times by significant aftershocks. New Zealanders in the earthquake affected areas are advised to follow any advice and instructions issued by the local authorities.
Santiago International Airport is operating and repairs to processing facilities are well advanced though travellers may still experience some delays. Travellers should check with their airline or travel agent what arrangements may be in place for their scheduled flights.
There are landmine fields in Chile’s northern border with Peru and Bolivia and on the southern border with Argentina in Patagonia. Travellers should follow clearly identified roads, observe all warning signs and seek advice from local authorities before travelling to these areas.
The Chaiten volcano, located in the Los Lagos region and the Llaima Volcano in the Araucania region both erupted in 2009 following earlier eruptions the previous year. Local authorities remain on alert as further eruptions can not be ruled out. There are national parks in both regions and New Zealanders visiting these areas should monitor local media reports for developments and follow any restrictions and instructions issued by the local authorities.
Small scale bomb attacks and bomb-threats occur from time to time in Santiago, including on 3 November 2009 at the Marriott Hotel. These incidents are generally associated with anarchist groups. New Zealanders are advised to take any bomb threats seriously and closely adhere to instructions issued by the local authorities for their own safety.
Protests and demonstrations occur occasionally in Chile and have the potential to turn violent. We recommend you avoid such situations. Dates of national significance 11 September (anniversary of military coup), 29 March (anniversary of the Young Combatant) and 1 May (Workers’ Day) may be a focus for protesters.
New Zealanders travelling or resident in Chile should have comprehensive travel or medical insurance policies in place that include provision for medical evacuation by air.
New Zealanders travelling or resident in Chile are encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
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Contact details are
Street Address El Golf 99, Oficina 703, (Casilla 112), Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Telephone + 56 2 290 9800 Facsimile +56 2 458 0940
Email embajada@nzembassy.cl
Website New Zealand Embassy Santiago [external link]
Office hours Mon-Fri 0845– 1300hrs, 1400 – 1715hrs
