Chile - climate and when to go to Chile

Climate

The territory of Chile extends from the tropics down almost to Antarctica, and from sea level up to breathtaking altitudes, therefore the country has a wide variety of climate conditions.
In the north there is hardly any rainfall and conditions are very hot and dry. The climate in central Chile is Mediterranean, with cool, wet winters between April and September.

Average annual rainfall increases, and temperatures go down, as you move further south. In Santiago average temperatures vary between 20ºC in January, the height of summer, and 8ºC in July, midwinter. In the extreme south the weather is cold and wet most of the year, snow covering the mountains and with cloudy skies.

When to go

Travelers should be prepared for unpredictable weather at any time of year. Most travelers consider the summer months, December to February, to be the best time to visit southern Chile as these months boast the warmest temperatures. However, winds are also the strongest during these months.

The shoulder season, October/ November and March/April, typically has slightly lower temperatures, but also less wind and fewer travelers so this can also be a good time to visit. Travelers do not generally visit southern Chile during the winter months of May-September as most trails are closed and waterways are iced over. Travelers visiting northern Chile, such as the Atacama Desert or Easter Island, can travel year round.