Where to go when - our weather guide to Chile
Wondering when is the best time to visit Chile? Explore our in-depth guide to the weather in Chile by seasons, as well as wildlife spectacles and cultural events throughout the year.
December - February
All across the country, temperatures are at their warmest and you’ll enjoy glorious sunny skies in many regions. This is the busiest time for visitors, so expect a buzzing atmosphere and lively crowds in popular destinations. Clear weather conditions make these months ideal for marvelling at Patagonia’s towering massifs or stargazing in the vast Atacama desert. This is a good time to visit Santiago, as the city empties out considerably and temperatures soar to 30°C. Out on Easter Island, the Tapati Rapa Nui festival in Feb draws crowds to watch the traditional challenges of horseback riding and tree climbing among local families.
24°C Average max daytime temperature
12°C Average min nighttime temperature
4 days per season rainfall
None humidity
March - May
The Chilean autumn sets landscapes aglow with crimson, orange and golden foliage. Temperatures begin to cool but remain pleasant in many areas, with chillier night and slightly increased rainfall. With fewer visitors you stand better chances of spotting Chile’s more elusive wildlife, like the graceful puma found predominantly in Torres del Paine, Aisen and Tierra del Fuego. In the vineyards, the Vendimias harvest festivals are in full swing. This is the perfect time to take a tour of the lush, fertile valleys and partake in grape stomping and, naturally, wine tasting.
19°C Average max daytime temperature
7°C Average min nighttime temperature
3 days per season rainfall
None humidity
June - August
The winter ushers in colder temperatures with increased rainfall and snow in some parts of the country. Nights often plunge below freezing, and some hotels and hiking trails will be closed though many national parks remain open. This is an ideal time to visit for winter sports enthusiasts, as the snow-drenched Andes provide an unrivalled playground for snowboarding and skiing. Try the Valle Nevado ski resorts outside Santiago or the glacial wilderness of southern Patagonia for smooth slopes and staggering views.
13°C Average max daytime temperature
1°C Average min nighttime temperature
3 days per season rainfall
None humidity
September - November
Bursts of rain, beaming sun and rising temperatures characterise spring in Chile. Areas of astounding natural beauty burst into bloom, with wildflowers carpeting the meadows and mountainsides of many national parks. The Lake District is particularly beautiful at this time of year, both for its endemic flowers and the nesting colonies of Magellanic and Humboldt penguins found in Chiloé. Patagonia has fewer visitors and more visible wildlife during these months.
19°C Average max daytime temperature
6°C Average min nighttime temperature
3 days per season rainfall
None humidity
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