ChileBest Time to Visit

Chile's extensive length as a country means the best time to visit can vary depending on which part of the country you intend to explore. Each season in Chile opens up new activities and experiences. Whether it's the lush spring, vibrant summer, colourful autumn, or snowy winter, Chile promises a unique and memorable visit at any time of the year. It's all about matching your travel desires with the right Chilean season.

When is the ideal time to visit Chile?

For the most variety in activities, including the tail end of warm weather, it is ideal to visit during their Fall, from March to May. The wine regions as the vineyards are in harvest, and the central region is awash with autumnal hues. The Lake District presents a dramatic backdrop with clear, crisp air and fewer travellers, offering a more peaceful experience. Though, if you are exclusively seeking Chile’s beaches and warm weather, do plan to visit during their summer, from December to February.

When is Chile's peak tourist season?

Summer delights from the month of December to February, and is the peak season for tourists, especially in Patagonia, where all hiking and walking trails are fully accessible. The days are long and generally sunny with moderate weather. Coastal regions like Valparaíso offer a cool ocean breeze against the summer heat, and it's an excellent time for beach activities and seafood by the seaside. Many locals also flock to the coast in search of sunshine.

Winter months from June to August are the best time and peak tourist season for winter sport enthusiasts to visit the Andes. It is popular for locals to book ski vacations during this time too. Meanwhile, the north of Chile, including the Atacama Desert, is more accessible due to milder temperatures. It's also the ideal time for spotting migratory wildlife in the Patagonian region. Santiago sees frequent precipitation during these months, however there are plenty of museums and galleries to check out indoors.

Which is the most affordable time to visit Chile?

Spring in Chile is September to November, and is a beautiful season to visit most regions, while also being the most affordable. You'll find wildflowers blooming in the Atacama Desert and pleasant weather in Santiago and the central regions, making it ideal for wine tours and urban exploration. Patagonia is also coming to life after the winter, though many areas may still be recovering from the snow. Torres del Plaine National Park does experience unpredictable weather during these months.

How long should I plan to visit Chile?

Due to Chile’s size, if you are hoping to see highlights of the country from North to South, including Easter Island, you should ideally plan to spend two weeks exploring. You can start in Santiago, spend a couple of days exploring Easter Island, continue onto Patagonia's Torres del Paine, then experience otherworldly desert landscapes in the Atacama desert.

If you are interested in the highlights of either the South or the North, you could choose one, and plan to spend seven nights. Start with a visit where 35% of Chile’s population calls home, Santiago. Visit the historic 1541 founding place of Santiago at Plaza de Armas. Walk through the vast, scenic vineyards of the Casablanca Valley where Chile's best wines come from. Then head to the coast to explore Valparaiso's historical quarter, appreciating the beautiful architecture lining the city's colourful hillsides.