Chile is 2,500 miles long and only 200 miles wide. Squeezed between the Andes and the Pacific Ocean, Chile is a long, thin land packed with a jaw-dropping diversity of geographical and cultural landscapes. From parched deserts to fertile Winelands, icy fjords in Patagonia and the mysterious island of Rapa Nui. The north can be visited any time of year and combines well with a thrilling road trip from the Atacama Desert into Argentina’s northern province. Patagonia and southern Chile are at their best between October and April when the dramatic weather has eased and the season starts for mountain walking, trout fishing and wildlife spotting.
To experience the impact of Chile’s contrasting landscapes, combine a visit to the Atacama Desert in the North and Patagonia in the South. In the Atacama Desert, you will discover salt lakes filled with flamingos, hot springs in the shadow of volcanic peaks and the softest dunes sprinkled between lunar valleys. Travel south to Patagonia, and the same Andes Mountain range is capped with snow and reflected in impossibly blue mountain lakes. The Winelands in Chile’s Central Valley is home to some of South America’s most exclusive boutique wine hotels and a must for any wine-lover keen to learn more about one of the country’s finest exports.
Local Time: GMT+3
Local Currency: Chilean Peso
The weather in Chile varies enormously from the north to the south, and as a result, the best times to visit these areas within the same country are different as well.
For southern Chile, particularly the Lake District, as well as northern and southern Patagonia, the southern hemisphere summer is the best time to visit in terms of the weather, from November to late March/early April. The festive season in December, as well as January and the first half of February are the busiest times to visit, but it’s also when the weather is typically warmest. Most lodges in Patagonia close for the winter season between May and October.
For the northern part of Chile, particularly the Atacama Desert, the season is quite different due to the altitude within the Andes mountain range. Despite being one of the most arid deserts in the world, the Atacama Desert experiences a rainy season from Dec-Feb. Sometimes the rains are heavier and other times less so, however, there have been reports of flooding that have disrupted trips in the past, so we always advise avoiding these months if possible. The dry season is typically a better time to visit this part of the country, from April-November, however, note that in the height of the dry season (July/Aug) it can get very cold at night and can even snow in some areas.
Easter Island is visitable all year-around, with February being a key month for cultural events on the island. The temperature varies little throughout the year but it is typically warmer from January to March and coolest from July to September.
If you’re doing a trip combining both the north of Chile and the south, we would recommend travelling in the ‘shoulder’ seasons for both extremes, which would mean March/April or late October to early December, which would also work well for Easter Island.
Travelling to Chile with True
Logistically, Chile can prove challenging, which is where expert planning and knowledge can prove to be invaluable. Our expert travel designers create your travel itinerary to ensure everything is smooth and well connected.
Our travel design process starts with you and your ideas, each trip created from a blank piece of paper.
Our Latin America specialists have created a selection of example itineraries to provide a sense of what can be crafted for you in Chile.
19 Day Itinerary
Guide Price: £16,300pp
Guide Price: $19,500pp
Discover vibrant cities and nature wonders, trekking Torres del Paine and visiting the Perito Moreno Glacier. Indulge in Buenos Aires’ hidden eateries and a romantic tango show, before an exhilarating boat journey through Iguazu Falls.
17 Day Itinerary
Guide Price: £12,600pp
Guide Price: $15,100pp
Embark on a tour showcasing Buenos Aires’ hidden eateries, exhilarating activities and panoramic views of natural wonders such as the Perito Moreno Glacier and Torres del Paine. Conclude with a serene stay at Viña Vik, blending local flavours, natural wonders and luxury.
8 Day Itinerary
Guide Price: £5,200pp
Guide Price: $6,300pp
Explore Chile, where charming colonial cities rich in history are seamlessly woven with a captivating natural landscape. Discover the enchanting lunar like scenery of the Atacama Desert, the perfect setting for stargazing.
8 Day Itinerary
Guide Price: £8,900pp
Guide Price: $10,600pp
Embark on an unparalleled Chilean adventure to Patagonia, where a spectrum of outdoor activities awaits, allowing you to fully engage with the breathtaking landscape of glaciers, rugged mountains and lakes of an impossible blue colour.
Discover vibrant cities and nature wonders, trekking Torres del Paine and visiting the Perito Moreno Glacier. Indulge in Buenos Aires’ hidden eateries and a romantic tango show, before an exhilarating boat journey through Iguazu Falls.
Embark on a tour showcasing Buenos Aires’ hidden eateries, exhilarating activities and panoramic views of natural wonders such as the Perito Moreno Glacier and Torres del Paine. Conclude with a serene stay at Viña Vik, blending local flavours, natural wonders and luxury.
Explore Chile, where charming colonial cities rich in history are seamlessly woven with a captivating natural landscape. Discover the enchanting lunar like scenery of the Atacama Desert, the perfect setting for stargazing.
Embark on an unparalleled Chilean adventure to Patagonia, where a spectrum of outdoor activities awaits, allowing you to fully engage with the breathtaking landscape of glaciers, rugged mountains and lakes of an impossible blue colour.
Discover Chile’s impressive highlights by exploring its diverse landscape featuring the scenic Lake District, sprawling vineyards and the historic architecture of colonial towns such as Santiago.
Take a voyage through three countries, across vineyards, lakes and mountains on trip for the ultimate South American adventure.
With a variety of landscapes and terrain, there is almost an endless list experiences that are possible. Whether you’re looking for active adventures, or a slower pace, our experts can create an itinerary something special for you.
Each trip True Travel curate is based on the experience you are looking for and as an independent travel operator, we are not obliged or committed to any properties. You can rest safe in the knowledge that the accommodation we recommend for your stay has been chosen based on your interests, not ours.
With a focus on eco-conscious luxury, this architecturally impressive property offers a haven of relaxation and adventure on the Eastern shore of Lake Sarmiento.
The Singular Santiago is a gorgeous boutique hotel, located in the cultural and historical hub of Santiago.
The Singular Patagonia is the preserver of the century old cold storage Frigorífico Bories, declared a national heritage in 1996, the museum has preserved the original century-old industrial machinery.
Diverse geography and cultural allure, there is a lot to explore in Chile. Santiago, the sophisticated capital, blends modernity with Andean charm. The Atacama Desert captivates with lunar landscapes and stargazing. Patagonia’s Torres del Paine National Park stuns with granite peaks and pristine wilderness. Explore the coastal beauty of Valparaíso and Viña del Mar.
From the deep cobalt lakes in the north of Patagonia to the icy fjords and glaciers in the south, few first-time visitors to Chile come without exploring the natural beauty of this region. Dramatic mountain peaks in the Torres del Paine National Park are perfect for hiking and walking, with never-ending lofty views and landscapes that defy the imagination.
Taking care of your Latin America travel needs is Evie, our Senior Latin America Specialist. There are few people as passionate about the people and culture of the region, ensuring that in addition to the extraordinary destination highlights, you will experience the most authentic side of Latin America with a True Travel itinerary.
Evie has lived in Argentina and travelled countless times throughout Central and South America; acquiring a particular love for wildlife, epic scenery and endless outdoors adventures.
INSPIRATION
SIGN UP
Weekly travel inspiration, news and updates from our team of travel specialists
Sign up