The U.S. Embassy advises U.S. citizens traveling and residing in Chile that potentially violent disturbances are probable in Santiago and possibly Valparaiso in connection with the anniversary of the Day of the Young Combatant (Día del Joven Combatiente) on Tuesday, March 29. This day commemorates the deaths of the brothers Rafael and Eduardo Vergara Toledo on March 29, 1985. Disturbances could begin in the days leading up to March 29.
Historically this day has been marked by incidents of violence, including the burning of buses and throwing of rocks and bricks at bystanders and vehicles. In 2015, a Carabinero was killed. Incidents have occurred in downtown Santiago, specifically on Avenida Libertador Bernardo O’Higgins and Avenida Americo Vespucio as well as in the vicinities of Universidad Pedagogico de Macul, Villa Francia, Estacion Central, Cerro Navia, Puente Alto, and La Legua. We recommend avoiding these areas on March 29, as well as outlying parts of Santiago and Valparaiso, particularly at night when incidents of violence will likely escalate. There will be a large increase in Carabineros posted throughout Santiago. In previous years, Santiago residents have been advised to keep flashlights and candles nearby in case electrical transformers are damaged by vandalism.
The area around Nido de Aguilas school has, in previous years, seen rocks and other objects thrown near the front gates of the school. However, no disruption in classes or services is expected. The school will operate normally unless prompted to change by the events of the day.
You should monitor the media for the latest information on demonstration locations, stay alert to your surroundings, and avoid any large crowds or demonstrations.
The U.S. Embassy strongly recommends that U.S. citizens traveling to or residing in Chile enroll in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program. STEP enrollment gives you the latest security updates, and makes it easier for the U.S. embassy or nearest U.S. consulate to contact you in an emergency. If you don’t have Internet access, enroll directly with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
Regularly monitor the State Department’s website, where you can find current Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and the Worldwide Caution. Read theCountry Specific Information for Chile. For additional information, please refer to our “Traveler’s Checklist” page.
Contact the U.S. Embassy in Chile for up-to-date security information. The U.S. Embassy in Santiago is located at Andres Bello 2800, Las Condes, Santiago and is open Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm (telephone number: +56 22 330 3716). If you are a U.S. citizen in need of urgent assistance, the emergency number for the U.S. Embassy is +56 22 330 3000.
You may also call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free from within the United States and Canada, or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
