Money in Chile: Currency and Exchange Tips for Travelers in 2025

Currency in Chile

• The official currency is the Chilean Peso (CLP).

• Prices are often quoted with a “$” sign, but that always means Chilean pesos — not US dollars.

• Some places also accept USD and EUR.

Credit & Debit Card Use

• Widely accepted in cities, hotels, and restaurants.

• Tip: In most hotels in Chile, you pay 19% less if you use a credit card (to be charged in USD) as opposed to a debit card or cash.

• Some small shops, hostels, and rural areas are cash-only, so always carry some pesos.

• For contactless payments, Google Pay and Apple Pay are slowly expanding but not guaranteed.

Currency Exchange in Chile

• Best exchange rates are found in Santiago (especially the city center’s “casa de cambio” offices).

• Rates in airports are usually poor.

• In Patagonia, exchange options are limited — bring pesos with you before traveling south.

• US dollars are sometimes accepted in tourist areas, but at bad exchange rates — always pay in pesos when possible.

• Tip: We prefer to use our Revolut debit card at ATMs for better exchange rates.

• Tip: Revolut works well for paying in pesos directly and avoiding high bank fees.