Chile spans over 2600 miles along the western side of South America and is known for its striking geographical diversity. From arid deserts in the north to icy glacial fields in the south, and from verdant valleys to active volcanoes and captivating beaches in between, the country offers a wide range of landscapes. This diversity allows for year-round attractions, including winter skiing and summer activities like trekking and beach visits.
Quick Facts.
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Prime beach weather, outdoor activities, and festivals galore
- Fall (March-May): Brilliant foliage in northern Patagonia, grape harvest in full swing
- Winter (June-Aug): Great skiing/snow sports; some tourist spots close at this time
- Spring (Sept-Oct): Blooming flowers, lively festivals, mild temps, and fewer crowds.
Planning Your Trip to Chile.
Summer (December to February).
In Chile‘s peak season, there is an abundance of outdoor activities available, thanks to the long summer days and average daily high temperatures of about 80°F/27°C. Along the coast, mild temperatures and refreshing breezes are prevalent, although inland regions, especially in the northern desert areas, can experience intense heat.
Even during the summer, nights can become chilly, particularly in the Andes and the Atacama desert, where temperatures can drop to 54°F/12°C. It’s advisable to pack a sweater and light jacket. As you travel further south, the weather becomes colder and rainier. For example, in Valdivia, the high temperatures in January and February reach around 72°F/22°C, while in Punta Arenas, the highs hover around 57°F/14°C.
If you’re considering a trip to Easter Island, the summer is the liveliest time to visit, especially if you plan your trip around the extensive two-week cultural festival of Tapati Rapa Nui in February. Other vibrant summer events not to be missed include Santiago a Mil, the largest theater festival in Latin America, and New Year’s Eve. On December 31st, one of the most exciting places to be is Valparaiso, with midnight fireworks illuminating the bay.
Fall (March to May).
March marks a transitional phase, as the summer crowds gradually diminish by the end of the month. It remains an excellent time for hiking, benefiting from dry weather conditions in Patagonia and the Andes.
Furthermore, this period presents the opportunity to partake in prominent harvest festivals in Chilean wine country. For instance, Santa Cruz in the Central Valley hosts one of the finest Fiestas de la Vendimia (grape harvest festivals), featuring folk dancing, culinary and craft stalls, and abundant wine.
Winter (June to August).
Chile‘s chilliest three months experience cold temperatures, with average lows of approximately 38°F/3°C. While the north experiences minimal rainfall, other regions see a slight increase in precipitation, averaging three inches per month nationwide from June to August.
Central Chile, with a more Mediterranean-like climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters, encounters somewhat higher levels of precipitation. Some areas in Chile embrace the winter rains as an occasion for festivities, such as the Festival de la Lluvia in Puerto Varas in the Lakes District, featuring concerts, street performances, and umbrella-themed parades.
The southern region is notably cold and receives substantial rainfall during the winter. Transport services are limited in Patagonia. Nonetheless, adventurous travelers should not discount the far south, as remote places like Ushuaia offer opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and even dogsledding during winter.
Spring (September to November).
Spring presents an enchanting opportunity to explore Chile. In September, visitors can witness the blossoming of wildflowers throughout the central and northern regions of the country. Some travelers even schedule their Atacama excursions to coincide with the extraordinary desert blooms. Spring arrives in the southern areas in November, offering an excellent chance to avoid crowds and benefit from reduced prices at beach resorts and in Patagonia.
Despite being the low season in Chile, the country is brimming with vitality during these months. The Fiestas Patrias (Chilean Independence) is celebrated with great fervor during the week surrounding September 18. The subsequent month provides an opportunity to delve into Chile‘s German heritage, with large Oktoberfest celebrations held in Malloco (just outside of Santiago), as well as in Valdivia and Puerto Varas.
