Best Time to Visit Chile

Visiting Chile in Spring: September to November

Spring in Chile (September – November)

Spring in Chile is from September to November. During this time, the country enjoys warm weather and longer days as the summer season approaches. September is a great month for a visit to Santiago and the Atacama Desert, due to the warmer weather and fewer crowds before the peak summer season from December to February.

Chile Weather in the Spring

Chile’s weather in the spring consists of warm days and chilly nights. The average temperature of Santiago de Chile in September is 53F / 12C. In October, Chile’s weather will begin to transition closer to the summer season. This means average temperatures will rise to 73F / 23C in Santiago, and even higher to 77F / 25C in San Pedro de Atacama. Overall, spring is a great time to visit Chile, just remember to pack some layers because though the days are full of warmth, temperatures do drop at night.

Best Things to Do in Chile during Spring

The best things to do in Chile during Spring involve exploring the northern regions of the country. Destinations like the Elqui Valley, La Serena, and the Atacama desert are ideal at this time for their agreeable weather and limited tourist crowds. In these northern regions, the weather is warmer and the days are longer than in the winter. The top thing to do in both the Elqui Valley and Atacama desert at this time are stargazing. With the clear skies of Spring, visitors will experience some of the world’s best stargazing, with no city lights causing interference. In La Serena, the long sunny days are perfect for enjoying the serene beaches and coastal walks along the town’s edge.

Visiting Chile in Summer: December to February

Summer in Chile (December – February)

From December to February Chile enjoys its pleasant and very popular summer season. This is the most attractive time to visit Chile and for good reason. The days are long and hot, with picturesque sunsets and warm evenings nearly every night. Whether your interests are city sightseeing or trekking through nature, the Chilean summer season has it all.

Note: Chileans like to take their holiday in December so the coastal regions/areas might be a bit busy.

Chile Weather in the Summer

In contrast with the spring season, Chile’s weather in the summer includes warm temperatures at night. In Santiago, the city reaches highs of 86F / 30C and lows of 53F / 12C. This makes exploring the city streets at night very enjoyable. During the peak of summer, Chile is busy with tourists. This is one of the best times to visit Chilean Patagonia, particularly Torres del Paine National Park, as temperatures reach a comfortable high of 61F / 16C and the skies are a beautiful baby blue.

Best Things to Do in Chile during Summer

Summer in Chile is a stunning time to visit, where the climate is dry, warm, and sunny. One of the best things to do in Chile during the summer is visiting the capital, Santiago. Featuring an impressive array of sites and monuments, like La Moneda and Plaza de Armas, a visit to Santiago will be full of inspiring moments. Additionally, Santiago summers are renowned for their lively festivals. Nearly every night, whether a concert in the park or local arts and craft market on the street, you’re bound to find something rich in culture to seize your time.

Summer is also an ideal time to visit Patagonia when the weather is the warmest and hiking trails are in full force for the season. Visitors at this time will have open access to all the impressive natural wonders of this region. Patagonia is a coveted destination this time of the year, so advanced bookings are a must.