5 Cultural Quirks in Chile

When traveling to Chile, you’ll quickly notice that the culture is as vibrant and layered as the country’s stunning landscapes. From quirky timing to warm greetings, here are a few things to know before you go—so you can travel like a local, not a tourist.

1. “Chilean Time” Is Real If you’re used to running on a tight schedule, get ready to loosen up. In Chile, punctuality is more of a suggestion than a rule. Being 15–30 minutes “fashionably late” is perfectly normal, especially for social events. Dinner often doesn’t begin until 9 or 10 PM—so take a deep breath, grab a pisco sour, and watch the sun dip behind the Andes. You’re on Chilean time now.

2. One Cheek Kiss, Please Chilean greetings are warm and personal—don’t expect a stiff handshake. A single kiss on the right cheek (air kiss-style) is the standard greeting, even between strangers. It’s a simple gesture that speaks volumes about the country’s friendliness and close-knit social culture.

3. Lunch Is the Main Event Forget the rushed sandwich-at-your-desk vibe. In Chile, lunch is the most important meal of the day. It’s a time to gather, eat well, and really talk. Expect multiple courses and conversations that linger long after the food is gone. It’s not unusual for lunch to last two hours—so slow down and savor the experience.

4. Politeness Goes a Long Way Chileans are famously kind, and good manners are taken seriously. A friendly “buenos días,” “por favor,” or “gracias” can earn you big points. Even if your Spanish isn’t perfect, showing respect and effort will get you far.

5. Crosswalks? What Crosswalks? Urban navigation in Chile can be an adventure. While there are traffic signals and crosswalks, they’re sometimes treated more like decoration. Locals often cross wherever and whenever it feels right, and drivers don’t always stop. Stay alert, follow the locals’ lead—but always look both ways!

Ready to embrace Chilean culture? Whether you're sipping late-night pisco sours or mastering the one-cheek kiss, experiencing Chile is all about immersing yourself in its unique rhythms. Respect the customs, take your time, and enjoy every spontaneous moment. ¡Buen viaje!