Health
Vaccinations
No mandatory vaccinations for entry from Germany. Recommended are:
- Standard Vaccinations: Tetanus, Diphtheria, Polio (refresh)
- Hepatitis A: Recommended
- Hepatitis B: For longer stays
- Rabies: Only for travel to remote areas
Altitude Sickness (Mal de Altura)
The biggest health challenge in Chile — especially in the Atacama:
- San Pedro de Atacama: 2,440 m — mild symptoms possible (headaches, fatigue)
- Geysers del Tatio: 4,320 m — serious altitude sickness possible
- Lagunas Altiplánicas: 4,100–4,300 m — likewise
Prevention: On the first day in San Pedro, only light activities, drink plenty of water (3–4 liters/day), avoid alcohol and heavy meals, drink Mate-de-Coca tea. Excursions above 4,000 m only from the 2nd–3rd day. If you experience severe headaches, vomiting, or confusion, descend immediately!
Sun & UV Radiation
In the Atacama and Patagonia, UV radiation is extreme:
- Sun Protection: SPF 50+ is mandatory, especially at high altitudes and in Patagonia (ozone hole!)
- Headwear: Hat or scarf, especially during hikes
- Sunglasses: UV-400 with side protection for the desert and glaciers
Medical Care
Chile has the best medical care in South America. In Santiago, Valparaíso, and larger cities, there are clinics at European standards. In Patagonia and the Atacama, care is more limited — travel health insurance with repatriation is highly recommended.