The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.

Wildfires 

Active forest fires are currently affecting multiple areas of Chile, including parts of:  

• Aysén 
• Biobío 
• La Araucanía 
• Los Lagos 
• Maule 
• Metropolitan Santiago 
• O’Higgins 
• Valparaíso  

The Chilean authorities have declared a state of emergency. Local authorities have closed roads and issued evacuation orders in various locations. 

To facilitate the work of emergency services and evacuations, the authorities have imposed curfews in several municipalities. Further evacuations or curfews may be declared in the coming hours and days if the fires continue to spread. 

Shelters have been established in some locations.  

If you are in or near the affected areas: 

• follow the advice of local authorities, including evacuation orders 
• monitor local media to stay informed of the rapidly evolving situation 
• notify friends and family of your safety 
• review your personal security plans 
• make evacuation plans that do not rely on British government assistance 
• have travel documents up to date and easily accessible 
• carry identification at all times, such as your passport or a copy of it 

For up-to-date information about forest fires, check the following links: 

• Chilean National Emergencies alerts – SENAPRED (in Spanish) 
• Agriculture Ministry’s summary of forest fires - CONAF(in Spanish) 
• Local weather forecast - Chilean Meteorological Service (in Spanish)

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide and see support for British nationals abroad for information about specific travel topics.

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.