Central Santiago and some other cities in Chile are experiencing violent demonstrations against recent price hikes in the Santiago Metro system. Although the civil unrest was sparked by the price rise of metro tickets these actions involve a frustrated lower-income group of Chilean society that has been building up over a number of years.
If you are due to arrive to Santiago in the next few days it would be advisable to be careful when venturing out and if possible avoid the central part of Santiago altogether.
The main tourist destinations outside of Santiago such as San Pedro de Atacama, Easter Island, Pucon and Patagonia (Torres del Paine) are not affected and perfectly alright.
We will up date you, but it is hoped that the situation will die down during the coming week.
As we say, main tourist spots are perfectly OK and you have no need to change any travel plans to such places.