Cheap car rentals Chile - Safety and Security

Book car rentals in Chile now!

Safety and Security

SAFETY AND SECURITY: The U.S. Government remains deeply concerned about the security of Americans overseas. As a result of U.S. military actions in response to the September 11 terrorist attacks, there is a potential for retaliatory actions to be taken against U.S. citizens and interests throughout the world by terrorists and those who harbor grievances against the United States. The Department of State urges Americans to review their circumstances carefully and to take all appropriate measures to ensure their personal safety. Americans are urged to monitor the local news and maintain contact with the nearest American Embassy or Consulate.

Due to the presence of suspected terrorist organizations in the Tri-Border Area ( Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay ), activities related to terrorism are a concern in the entire region. However, there are no reports of credible threats directed against American interests in Chile specifically.

Public demonstrations are common in Chile around September 11, the anniversary of the 1973 Chilean military coup. Political, labor, or student protests, sometimes violent, can also occur at other times, often near government buildings in Santiago and Valparaiso or in the vicinity of major universities. Regardless of when or where such assemblies occur, American citizens traveling or residing in Chile are advised to take common-sense precautions and avoid any large gatherings or any other event where crowds have congregated to demonstrate or protest. Additional advice about demonstrations, particularly during the September period, may be obtained from the U.S. Embassy at the telephone numbers listed below.

There are credible reports that land mines may pose a danger to hikers in remote sections of several popular national reserves and parks near northern border areas, including Lauca and Llullaillaco National Parks, Salar de Surire National Monument, and Los Flamencos National Reserve. Visitors should check with park authorities before entering less-traveled areas and observe all warning signs. There are also demarcated land mine fields in the Magallanes region of southern Chile, between Punta Arenas and the Torres del Paine National Park, and on Tierra del Fuego, which should be strictly avoided.

For the latest security information, Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department's Internet website at http://travel.state.gov where the current Worldwide Caution Public Announcement, Travel Warnings and Public Announcements can be found.

The Overseas Citizen Services call center at 1-888-407-4747 can answer general inquiries on safety and security overseas. This number is available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). Callers who are unable to use toll-free numbers, such as those calling from overseas, may obtain information and assistance during these hours by calling 1-317-472-2328.