FAQ

We understand that travelling brings up many questions.

All you need to know about it, right here! If there is still any question, contact us!
We will be happy to answer every question you have.

1. What kind of luggage can I bring with me on this trip?
A suitcase or travel backpack is ideal, as it’s easier to handle in vans and small hotels.
Bring a daypack for daily excursions and keep your main bag under 22 kg/44 lbs. if possible.
Summer weather can still be unpredictable, so prioritize layered clothing and waterproof gear over bulk.

2. What are the entry requirements for Chile?
Entry rules depend on your nationality:

Citizens of the UK, EU, USA, Canada, Australia, and most Latin American countries can enter visa-free for up to 90 days with a passport valid for at least 6 months.

You’ll receive a Tourist Card (Tarjeta de Turismo) on arrival—keep it safe, as you must present it when leaving Chile.

  • Travel insurance covering health and accidents is strongly recommended (we also offer this service)

*Always double-check with the Chilean Ministry of Foreign Affairs or your country’s consulate before traveling*.

3. What’s the time zone in the Lake District?
 The region follows Chile Standard/Daylight Time. Example: When it’s 12 pm in Detroit, it’s 1 pm in Chile during summer.

Summer (Dec–Apr): GMT-3 (Daylight Saving).
Winter (May–Aug): GMT-4.

4. Which currency is used in Chile?
The local currency is the Chilean Peso (CLP).
Exchange rates fluctuate, but in fall 2025:

  • 1 USD ≈ 950–1,000 CLP

  • 1 EUR ≈ 1,000–1,050 CLP
    Change money at banks, exchange offices (casas de cambio), or withdraw pesos from ATMs.

5. How can I pay in Chile?
Credit and debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Amex) are widely accepted in cities. Smaller villages, markets, and ferry terminals often prefer cash, so carry some pesos. Mobile apps such as Mercado Pago and Mach are also common.

6. Do I need to tip in Chile?
Tipping is customary but not compulsory.

  • Restaurants: about 10% of the bill (sometimes added automatically).

  • Taxis: round up the fare.

  • Guides, porters, or drivers: a small cash tip is appreciated for good service.

7. What’s the internet like in the Lake District? Should I buy a SIM card?
 Cities and main towns have reliable 4G coverage and free Wi-Fi in cafés, hotels, and restaurants. In rural areas or on Chiloé Island, reception may drop. For consistent data, you can buy a local SIM or eSIM from Entel, Movistar, or WOM at airports, supermarkets, or official stores, or consider activating a roaming service.

8. What language do they speak in Chile?
 The official language is Spanish, spoken with a distinctive Chilean accent.
Useful phrases:

Hello – Hola
Thank you – Gracias
Please – Por favor
How much is this? – ¿Cuánto cuesta esto?
Excuse me – Disculpe
Many locals in tourist areas understand basic English.

9. What kind of plugs are used in Chile?
Chile uses Type C and Type L plugs, 220 V / 50 Hz. Travelers from the UK, USA, or Australia need a universal adapter and should check that devices can handle 220 V.

10. What’s the main religion in Chile?
 Chile is predominantly Roman Catholic, but it’s religiously diverse and welcoming.
Major holidays include Christmas (Dec 25), New Year’s Day (Jan 1), and Fiestas Patrias (Sept 18–19)—though these occur outside the summer trip dates.

11. What should I pack for the Chilean Lake District in summer?
 Even in summer (Dec–Mar), expect cool evenings and occasional rain. Pack layers:
Clothing
 - Light T-shirts and breathable shirts for warm afternoons (15–25 °C / 59–77 °F)
- Fleece or mid-layer for chilly mornings/evenings
- Waterproof jacket or rain shell (rain is frequent)
- Comfortable pants/jeans and quick-dry trousers
-  Bathing suit
Footwear
Sturdy walking or hiking shoes for trails and volcano viewpoints
Trainers for city strolls
Sandals for sunny days or hot springs
Accessories & Tech
Sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen (UV is strong even on cloudy days)
Travel adapter (Type C/L)
Camera or smartphone + power bank
Toiletries & Medications
Standard toiletries, insect repellent, personal meds.

12. What’s the weather like in the Lake District during summer?
 Summer (December–March) offers long daylight hours, mild to warm days, and frequent showers. Rain is common but usually short-lived—pack waterproof layers and quick-dry clothing.

  • Daytime: 15–25 °C (59–77 °F)

  • Night: 7–12 °C (45–54 °F)

13. Is the flight included?
 International and domestic flights are included.

14. Which are the accepted payment methods for booking?
Rayen Travels accepts:

  • Credit or debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Amex)

  • PayPal (international)

Balances are payable in USD or EUR as indicated in your invoice.

15. Can I cancel or modify my booking?
Yes. You can cancel or change your trip up to 31 days before departure for a full refund of the tour price. Cancellations are processed as a refund.

16. What type of accommodation should I expect?
 We select luxury hotels and eco lodges during your experience. All accommodations are carefully vetted for luxury and comfort. You have the option of shared room or private room.

17. Can I find out my travel group’s flights?
Flights are booked independently.

18. What’s the average size and age of a Rayen Travels group?
Groups are of 7 travellers and 2 guides, to guarantee exclusivity and privacy during your experience.
Typical ages: Group 30-55 and 56-75, English/German-speaking.
A love of nature and a flexible mindset are more important than age!

19 . Can I see who’s in the group before I book the trip?
Yes. A week before the trip we share basics demographics (age range and gender). There is also the option to share your personal information with other members of the travel group as soon we all confirmed so you can connect with them prior the experience! Of course, if you prefer, we keep names private until the day of the trip!

20. If a location is mentioned, is it guaranteed that we’ll spend the night there?
 The itinerary lists the lodging were we are staying. Final hotel details are confirmed a few days before departure. Occasionally we may stay in a nearby village if accommodations are limited or weather affects logistics.

21. Who is the Rayen Travels guide and what do they do?
Your guide is an experienced local naturalist and multilingual trip leader. They handle logistics—transport, timing, accommodations—so you can focus on enjoying the landscapes, culture, and flora.
You’ll meet them virtually when the WhatsApp group is created about two weeks before the trip.

22. Will I share the room?
It depends on the approach you choose.
If you are looking to connect with other passengers, I would recommend our Elemental Bond package.
However, if you prefer privacy and immersion in nature, the Luxury into Nature package might better suit your expectations. A single supplement is available upon request and subject to availability.

How can I be part of the community?

Once you travel with us, you’re part of the Rayen Travels’ community!
Stay connected following us on Instagram, stay tuned to our website, read our adventure blog or /and contact us over e-mail or over WhatsApp!
Or even better! Book a free call with us and get to know each other!

Once a Rayen traveler, always a Rayen traveler.