UK citizens do not need to pay any kind of entry fee to get into Chile. However, for four countries there is a one-time charge, good for multiple trips into the country so long as it is on the same passport. This is collected to counter the similar visa fee charged to Chileans travelling to these nations and so the amounts collected vary depending on where you're from. The fees are USD15 for Mexicans, USD56 for Australians, USD131 for US citizens and USD132 for Canadians.
While American citizens don't need a visa to enter Chile, they do require valid passports. Keep fresh, clean and crisp currency notes ready in denominations of 20, to pay the fee.
At the port of entry, whether you arrive by cruise ship, road or airplane, you will have to fill in a tourist card to give to customs, valid for stay in the country for a period not exceeding 90 days. Retain this carefully since it will offer you tax rebates. You will need to submit it to Customs upon departure from Chile. Hotels discount the 19% tax on room rental if this card is produced and rental is paid in USD, so be sure to show this when paying.
Airports charge an airport tax of $18 (or equivalent amount in Pesos) for all passengers flying out of Chile. Domestic flight prices already have this cost built in.
Useful Information
Tourism Information: http://www.visitchile.org/
Consulate information/Embassy site: www.echileuk.demon.co.uk/consulatevisas.htm
OR http://www.chile-usa.org/
Chile Tourism office at the Embassy of Chile in Washington DC ofitur@embassyofchile.org
Warning!
Chile is highly dependent on agriculture and the import of any perishable items is therefore considered illegal. These laws apply across the country since it operates under a unified judicial system.