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Mountains in Chile

Table of contents

Weather by season
Weather by month
Weather by region
The best time to visit
Travel tips for every weather
Your packing list for Chile
Weather phenomena
FAQ

Chile, a land of breathtaking contrasts, invites travelers to explore its natural and cultural wonders during every season. From the snow-capped Andean peaks to the Atacama desert, the weather in Chile shapes its diverse landscapes, offering unforgettable experiences. Read on to learn about the best seasons to visit this South American gem.

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Weather in Chile by season

  • Patagonia

    Spring (September to November)

    From September to November, Chile blooms in vivid colors, ushering in moderate temperatures and a landscape decked in wildflowers. Spring is the perfect time to stroll through vineyards or discover the budding wildlife in Patagonia.
     

    Chile tours in spring
  • Santiago

    Summer (December to February)

    From December to February, summer in Chile is a top destination for sun lovers. With temperatures high, it's an ideal time for beach getaways, stargazing in the Atacama Desert, or exploring Santiago's lively nightlife.
     

    Chile tours in summer
  • Wine tasting

    Fall (March to May) 

    March to May sees Chile bathed in golden brown hues. The weather in Chile during fall is pleasantly cool, making it an exceptional time for hiking to Machu Picchu or wine tasting in the Central Valley.
     

    Chile tours in autumn/fall
  • Skiing

    Winter (June to August) 

    Winter in Chile is from June to August. Snow blankets the Andes, creating a haven for skiers and snowboarders. Meanwhile, the Atacama Desert offers clear, crisp nights for stargazing.
     

    Chile tours in winter

    Monthly overview of the weather in Chile

    MonthAvg Temp °CAvg Temp °FRain/Snow
    January2577Moderate (rain in Santiago, light rain in the south, hot and dry in the north)
    February2475Moderate (rain in Santiago, light rain in the south, hot and dry in the north)
    March2272Moderate (rain in Santiago, light rain in the south, some rain in the north)
    April1864Low (rain in Santiago, cooler weather, light rain in the south, dry in the north)
    May1559Low (rain in Santiago, snow in the south, light rain in the north)
    June1254Low (rain in Santiago, snow in southern Chile and Patagonia, very cold in the north)
    July1152Low (snow in southern Chile and Patagonia, cold and dry in the north)
    August1355Low (snow in southern Chile and Patagonia, cold and dry in the north)
    September1559Low (rain increases in Santiago, snow continues in Patagonia)
    October1864Moderate (increases in Santiago, snow decreases in Patagonia, warmer weather in the north)
    November2170Moderate (rain in Santiago and the north, still cool in the south)
    December2475Moderate (rain in Santiago and northeast, dry in Patagonia and the south)

    Weather in Chile by region

    • Atacama Desert

      Atacama Desert

      With barely any rainfall, the Atacama Desert offers otherworldly landscapes under crystal-clear skies. The weather in Chile's driest region is a unique spectacle, with chilly nights contrasting very hot days.
       

      See Atacama Desert tours
    • Santiago

      Santiago

      Santiago's Mediterranean climate offers warm summers ideal for beach lovers and cool, wet winters, perfect for exploring the city's vibrant culture and historic sites.
       

      See Santiago tours
    • Valparaíso

      Valparaíso

      Known for its mild, temperate climate, Valparaíso offers pleasant weather year-round. Travelers can enjoy colorful towns, street art, and delicious, fresh seafood.
       

      See Valparaíso tours
    • Patagonia

      Patagonia

      Weather in Chile's Patagonia region is unpredictable, creating awe-inspiring experiences. Expect anything from sunlit days to sudden snowstorms, all adding to Patagonia's wild beauty.
       

      See Patagonia tours

    Best time to visit Chile based on weather

    Chile's weather is as diverse as its landscapes, offering adventures year-round. For those seeking warm, sunny days, visit from December to February. Spring and autumn offer mild weather, ideal for hiking or wine tasting. And for snow sports fans, the Chilean winter from June to August is hard to beat. Find your perfect organized trip in Chile on TourRadar.
     

    Read more about Chile
    Patagonia

    Weather-related travel tips

    General tips for all seasons

    Understand the Diversity: The weather in Chile varies drastically from north to south. The northern Atacama Desert is dry and hot, while the southern regions are colder and rainier. 

    Sun Protection: Regardless of the region, always carry sunscreen. The sun is deceptively strong, particularly in high-altitude areas.

    Layer Up: Temperature changes between day and night can be significant. Dress in layers to adapt easily.

    Stay Hydrated: Particularly in the arid regions, it's crucial to keep hydrated.

    Respect the Environment: Chile’s weather conditions can change rapidly. Pay attention to local weather forecasts and respect any warnings or advisories.

    Packing list for Chile

    • Summer essentials

      • Sunscreen
      • Sunglasses
      • Lightweight clothing
      • Swimsuit
      • Rain jacket
      • Hiking boots
      • Hat/Cap
      • Water bottle
      • Lightweight fleece
      • Insect repellent

    • Winter essentials

      • Warm, layered clothing
      • Thermal underwear
      • Waterproof boots
      • Raincoat
      • Winter accessories (hats, gloves, scarves)
      • Sunscreen
      • Sunglasses
      • Insulated water bottle
      • Lip balm
      • Moisturizer

      Weather phenomena in Chile

      • Atacama desert

        Atacama Desert's Flower Bloom

        After rare heavy rains, the usually arid Atacama Desert transforms into a colorful bed of wildflowers.

      • Patagonia

        Patagonian Wind

        Experience the sheer force of winds in Patagonia, a unique weather phenomenon that shapes the landscape of the region.

      • Santiago

        Santiago's Winter Rain

        Santiago's winter rain brings a captivating beauty to the city, transforming its streets into reflective waterways.

      • Snowed mountains

        Snowfall in the Andes

        The majestic Andes mountains blanketed in snow are a sight to behold. A winter wonderland for skiers and snowboarders awaits!

        Best Chile tours

        Top-rated operators for Chile tours

        What people ask about Chile

        • What is the weather like in Chile?

          Chile's weather is highly diverse, ranging from desert conditions in the north to a Mediterranean climate in the center and a cool, rainy climate in the south.
        • When is the best time to visit Chile?

          The best time depends on the region you're visiting. Summer (December - February) is ideal for Patagonia, spring (September to November) and fall (March to May) are ideal for Machu Picchu, and the Atacama Desert can be visited year-round.
        • What should I pack for a trip to Chile?

          Your packing list should reflect the diverse weather in Chile. Essentials include sun protection, layered clothing, insect repellant, and, depending on the season, a swimsuit or winter accessories.
        • Does it snow in Chile?

          Yes, in winter, snow is common in the Andes and the southern regions, making skiing and snowboarding popular activities.
        • How hot does it get in Chile?

          In the Atacama Desert, temperatures can exceed 30°C (86°F) in summer. Central and southern regions are generally cooler.
        • Does it rain in the Atacama Desert?

          Rain is scarce in the Atacama Desert, making it the driest place on earth. However, when it does rain, a stunning flower bloom can occur.

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