Best time to visit Chile

Visiting Chile in February

In the warm north of the country, some villages such as San Miguel de Azapa host the Carnavalón Festival. Here you can enjoy vibrant celebrations as thousands of Chileans stream into these hillside locales to dance, share regional produce and bestow joy for the rest of the year.  

Also in the month of February, Easter Island sees the annual Fiesta Tapati. This singular festival showcases the cultural practices of the Rapa Nui people here, from Takona body painting to the oratory of local legends. 

Visiting Chile in March

As vivid autumn creeps over the centre and the south of the country towards the end of the month, the Winelands are full of regional festivals. Head to Curico for the Grape Harvest Festival – the oldest of these celebrations, here festivities consist of the ceremonial blessing of the first batch of the year, a stomping competition and an impressive parade. 

In March you can also witness the Campeonato Nacional de Rodeo, the biggest rodeo event held in Chile. The marvellous cultural sceptical is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.  

Visiting Chile in April

Another worthwhile wine event is the Pirque Wine Festival, one of the last celebrations of the wine season and one of the biggest. Join the wine enthusiasts who flock from nearby Santiago to enjoy music, dancing, equestrian displays and other entertainment in honour of the wine-loving culture here.   

For a more intimate experience, travel to the picturesque region of Casablanca Valley. Famous for the grapes produced here, you can also enjoy a warm autumn climate as you explore the scenic vineyards. 

Visiting Chile in May

Chileans really know how to celebrate Labour Day. On 1 May, drink in the lively atmosphere and look out for the banners of Che Guevara as workers take to the streets in colourful parades. 

For a more tranquil experience, head down to Patagonia and admire the breath-taking views of the Southern icefields, glaciers and crater lakes on your journey to the phenomenal Torres del Paine National Park. On your horseback expeditions you can spot the resident guanacos darting between the trees and gorse bushes.

Visiting Chile in June

While winter hits the south of the country hardest, visit the vast Atacama Desert to the north. Head out with your guide to witness this time-warped topography. The driest location on the planet, the Atacama is full of wonder. Here you’ll find the breezy city of Calama, where the modern and the indigenous blend in the artistic culture that holds sway. Aymara, Quechua, Rapa Nui and Mapuche people celebrate new year on winter solstice, which falls here in the month of June, making this a good time to learn about the pre-colonial cultures of Chile. 

Visiting Chile in July

As winter continues towards the south, the party-loving heart of the country is far from dampened. Enjoy the Snow Festival in Puerto Williams where a huge amount of winter sports and activities take place, as well as concerts and the crowning of a festival queen. July also sees the Winter Carnival in Punta Arenas, where street bands perform beneath spectacular firework displays. 

Further north, you can still experience warm weather in July at the UNESCO-recognised Inca Road System. Once spanning over much of South America, these trails are some of the last remnants of the Inca Empire. 

Visiting Chile in August

With winter still in full sway in the south of Chile, most visitors head to the north of the country. August is another good time to explore the Atacama’s wild landscapes and fascinating archaeological sites, from Tulor Village to Pukará de Quitor. 

Chile’s catholic communities never miss an opportunity to celebrate, and on 15 August you can witness the Assumption of Virgin Mary throughout the country. All of the cities see stunning parades, while remote rural communities tend to host intimate festivals and markets, as well as widely attended church ceremonies.   

Visiting Chile in September

Spring finally emerges in the centre and south. Those with an adventurous spirit can start to explore a spectacular world of snow-capped volcanoes and crystal-clear lakes in Patagonia or the Lake District, which can become inaccessible in winter.  

On 18 September, the Fiestas Patrias takes place. This national holiday showcases ramadas (or temporary buildings used to house the celebrations) and delightful treats such as empanadas and chichi (a lightly alcoholic drink). In this atmospheric setting, local residents take part in cueca and cumbias dances. The following day sees the commemoration of the First Assembly of the Government of 1810, when military parades and athletic competitions are held.  

Visiting Chile in October

October offers several opportunities to get acquainted with Chile’s unique culture. Reformation Day is a protestant and evangelist holiday celebrated by these communities throughout the country. Demonstrating tolerance and progressive values, Chile was the first South American country to implement such a holiday. With mild weather too, you can explore the Jesuit heritage at the Chiloé Archipelago where 16 17th-century churches demonstrate a blend of European and indigenous architectural styles. 

Visiting Chile in November

As temperatures begin to climb, experience the incredible mountain vistas and deserted expanses of the south with a cruise around mysterious Patagonia aboard the Stella Australis. Showcasing majestic wildlife, unparalleled scenery and an insight into the lives of those who have braved this wilderness centuries, these southern reaches are full of wonder.   

All Saints Day is celebrated on 1 November, and it’s on this day that those who have lost somebody in their life take some time to remember. Locals head out to adorn the graveyards with bright flowers, while in the evenings memories are shared and loved ones remembered. 

Visiting Chile in December

As summer finally reaches the south and the central regions see even higher temperatures, December is a good month to experience the capital. Santiago is a vibrant city full of intriguing architecture and enticing delicacies. Christmas here is a bustling affair with warm markets and atmospheric festivities as the city residents once again take to the streets to celebrate. 

Another event in December is the Fiesta de La Virgen de Andacollo, when the vital resource of copper is the focus for celebration. Held in Andacollo, a little to the north of Santiago, this celebration offers an insight into the Molle culture here.