Town in Magallanes, Chile
Healthcare in Puerto Natales: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in Puerto Natales
Basic care in town; serious cases and evacuations go to Punta Arenas. Insurance with trek evacuation cover is strongly advised.
Hospitals for foreigners in Puerto Natales
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| Hospital Dr. Augusto Essmann Burgos | Public hospital in Puerto Natales for emergencies |
| Hospital Clínico Magallanes (Punta Arenas) | Referral hospital for serious cases, about 3.5 h away |
Key facts
- Doctor's visit: $30,000–60,000 ($31–61) at a private clinic without insurance.
- In Chile: Private clinics in Santiago are among the region's best but expensive; public hospitals are stretched. Get travel insurance, especially for Patagonia and Atacama trips.
- Pharmacies: Cruz Verde, Salcobrand and Farmacias Ahumada are everywhere; many medicines need a prescription.
- Health spending: US$1,760 per person a year (2024); 3.3 doctors per 1,000 people (2023), World Bank.
- Emergency: Police 133 · Ambulance 131 · Fire 132.
Travel and health insurance
Travel insurance isn't required to enter Chile, but treatment for visitors is paid upfront.
| Insurer | Good for |
|---|---|
| SafetyWing Nomad Insurance | Monthly subscription for nomads and long trips; cancel anytime. |
| Genki | Health insurance for nomads, from a European insurer. |
| World Nomads | Trip insurance that covers many adventure activities. |
| Heymondo | Single-trip, annual and long-stay plans with a medical app. |
| IMG Global | Travel medical and long-term international health plans. |
Quick answers
What is the best hospital in Puerto Natales for foreigners?
Hospital Dr. Augusto Essmann Burgos: Public hospital in Puerto Natales for emergencies
How much does a doctor's visit cost in Puerto Natales?
About $30,000–60,000 ($31–61) at a private clinic.
Do I need travel insurance for Chile?
It isn't required for entry, but recommended: hospitals in Chile expect visitors to pay or show insurance.
More about Puerto Natales
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Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: Chile
- Corporación Nacional Forestal (CONAF)
- Servicio Nacional de Turismo (Sernatur)
- Bus Sur
SoloSquare has no commercial relationship with the insurers listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.