Chile: when to go?
méditerranéen central, aride nord, océanique sud climate
Chile offers exceptional climate diversity across its 4,300 km length, but Santiago and the central valley benefit from an ideal Mediterranean climate for discovering the country. The austral summer (November to March) reveals Chile at its best: mild temperatures, azure skies and virtually no rainfall. It's the perfect time to explore the vineyards of Colchagua valley, hike in the Andes or head to the Atacama. Winter (June-August) brings coolness and rain to Santiago, but remains perfect for skiing in the Cordillera or visiting Patagonia under dramatic light. The desert north remains accessible year-round with marked temperature variations, while the temperate south offers lush landscapes in spring. Our recommendation: opt for December to February for a complete journey, from Santiago to the Atacama desert, making the most of long, sunny days.
- Best period
- November to March
- Good alternatives
- April to May, September to October
- Rainy winter
- June to August
Year-round overview
Select a month to plan your trip
Climate in numbers
Monthly temperatures and precipitation
Temperature (°C)
Precipitation (mm)
Find your best time to go
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Climate zones
Climate varies by region. Discover the unique characteristics of each zone.
General climate Chile
FavorableStretching from the Atacama Desert to Patagonian glaciers, Chile presents every climate: arid in the north, Mediterranea...
North and Atacama
IdealLake Region
FavorableWine valleys
IdealSouthern Patagonia
FavorableSantiago and surroundings
IdealEaster Island
IdealMonth by month
Find detailed climate information for each month of the year.
Temperature
6° — 30°C
Precipitation
28 mm
Average temperature
2.9°C
Rating
Ideal
By climate zone
Ideal for visiting the entire country. Perfect for the Atacama Desert and wine regions.
Temperature
6° — 30°C
Precipitation
28 mm
Average temperature
2.9°C
Rating
Ideal
By climate zone
Excellent conditions everywhere. Best season for Patagonia.
Temperature
4° — 28°C
Precipitation
40 mm
Average temperature
2.5°C
Rating
Ideal
By climate zone
Perfect temperatures. Start of the harvest season in wine valleys.
Temperature
2° — 25°C
Precipitation
56 mm
Average temperature
2°C
Rating
Good
By climate zone
Beautiful autumn colors. Still accessible for most regions.
Temperature
0° — 23°C
Precipitation
91 mm
Average temperature
1.5°C
Rating
Fair
By climate zone
Significant rainfall hitting Santiago. North still accessible.
Temperature
-3° — 22°C
Precipitation
105 mm
Average temperature
1.2°C
Rating
Average
By climate zone
Ski season in the Andes. Avoid Patagonia, favor the north.
Temperature
-4° — 21°C
Precipitation
99 mm
Average temperature
1.1°C
Rating
Average
By climate zone
Cold and humid in the center. Perfect for skiing, desert always accessible.
Temperature
-3° — 21°C
Precipitation
73 mm
Average temperature
1.4°C
Rating
Fair
By climate zone
Progressive improvement. Last chance for Cordilleran skiing.
Temperature
-1° — 22°C
Precipitation
47 mm
Average temperature
1.6°C
Rating
Good
By climate zone
Gradual recovery. Desert blooming if favorable conditions.
Temperature
1° — 24°C
Precipitation
36 mm
Average temperature
2.1°C
Rating
Ideal
By climate zone
Return of fine weather. Ideal for treks in preparation for summer.
Temperature
3° — 26°C
Precipitation
29 mm
Average temperature
2.4°C
Rating
Ideal
By climate zone
Perfect to start the season. All regions become accessible again.
Temperature
5° — 29°C
Precipitation
27 mm
Average temperature
2.8°C
Rating
Ideal
By climate zone
Perfect conditions everywhere. High tourist season in Patagonia.
Frequently asked questions
Everything about the climate and the best time to visit Chile
The best months to visit Chile are November, December, January, February, March. This period offers favourable weather and ideal conditions for exploring the country at its best.
The Mediterranean climate of Chile is characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. The average annual temperature is 14.5°C. It's one of the most pleasant climates in the world, ideal for cultural travel.
Rainfall in Chile is mainly concentrated between June, July, August. These showers remain generally moderate, alternating with sunny days. This period is ideal for cultural tourism without crowds.
Yes, swimming is pleasant from November, December, January, February, March. The sea stays warm until autumn. Peak summer months are ideal for beaches, while spring and autumn are best for hiking and cultural experiences.
Spring and autumn (November, December, January, February, March) are perfect for vineyard visits, local markets and fine dining. Harvest season (September-October) offers an unparalleled wine tourism experience.
If your travel dates don't match the ideal season in Chile, the Nomadays network brings together more than 100 local agencies worldwide. Get in touch to find out which destination would be ideal for your dates.
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