When to go to Atacama Desert
December - February
During these summer months, the hot and sunny days and pleasantly warm nights attract many visitors. The clear skies are perfect for stargazing, with the milky way often visible. You’ll spy wild flamingos gathered together in large groups on the ethereal salt flats, though access may be restricted by bursts of rain in January.
18°C Average max daytime temperature
6°C Average min nighttime temperature
12 days per season rainfall
None humidity
March - May
While temperatures drop a little, the climate remains pleasantly warm and autumn nights are cool in the desert. As the peak season is over, you’ll find fewer visitors at popular attractions like the hissing geysers.
16°C Average max daytime temperature
2°C Average min nighttime temperature
4 days per season rainfall
None humidity
June- August
The days are shorter during the winter months, and while daytime temperatures remain pleasant, nights are often below freezing with possible snowfall in July. Though the desert is generally very dry, there is an increased chance of rainfall during the winter, the aftermath of which is an explosion of endemic wildflowers blooming across the arid plains.
13°C Average max daytime temperature
-2°C Average min nighttime temperature
0 days per season rainfall
None humidity
September - November
With fewer crowds than the high season and temperatures warming up, this is an ideal time to visit the Atacama. Try horse riding or hiking across the lunar landscapes.
17°C Average max daytime temperature
2°C Average min nighttime temperature
3 days per season rainfall
None humidity
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