When is the best time to visit Chile?

Visiting Chile in March

As the crowds in Patagonia ease off and accommodation prices drop a little, March is a lovely time to travel across Chile; particularly to the Lake District and winelands.

Events & Festivals

• Vendimias (late February to early May): These are wine harvesting festivals that take place across Chile's wine growing area, usually featuring grape stomping, local music and wine tasting.

Visiting Chile in April - August

April to August are much quieter in terms of visitor numbers in Patagonia in particular, with many hotels closing for the season. However, for those wishing to experience Torres del Paine at its wildest, the park remains open and unique wildlife spotting opportunities are available.

Events & Festivals

• Puma spotting in Torres del Paine National Park (April and May): There is an increased chance of spotting the elusive puma during these months in Torres del Paine National Park.
• Vendimias (late February to early May): These are wine harvesting festivals that take place across Chile's wine growing area, usually featuring grape stomping, local music and wine tasting.

Visiting Chile in September

September is a good month for a visit that combines Santiago, the central valleys and the north of the country; including the Atacama Desert. Crowds are small and the days are beginning to warm up.

Events & Festivals

• Independence Day (September 18): Nationwide festivities take place to mark the anniversary of Chile's independence from Spain, including parties, dances and traditional meals.

Visiting Chile in October

Spring flowers in the Lake District begin to make an appearance in October, creating beautiful scenery. You can, however, expect more rain here at this time of year.

Visiting Chile in November

November is the start of Chile's summer and crowds across the country — particularly in Patagonia — begin to increase in size. Make sure you book well in advance if traveling at this time to ensure you get the best accommodation choices.

Visiting Chile in December

Chileans like to take their vacations in December, so coastal areas such as Valparaiso can become busy. As with January and February, December is a popular time to visit Torres del Paine National Park and we recommend booking well in advance for a stay here during this period.

Events & Festivals

• New Year's Eve (December 31): Celebrate New Year's Eve in style, where many of our recommended hotels offer wonderful views of the fireworks displays that take place over the bay in Valparaiso.