Chile

When to go

Much of Chile has a mountain climate, with continual snow and glaciers in the higher areas. The north of the country is desert, one of the driest regions in the world, and is temperate and attractive year round. It is warm during the day, but can be quite cold during the night.

The Altiplano has a rainy season from December to January, although rainfall is usually limited to an afternoon storm. Central Chile has a Mediterranean climate, with warm summers and mild winters, and is best visited in the spring or autumn. The southern region has a changeable cool and wet climate.

Torres del Paine and the Lake District are best visited in the southern hemisphere's summer. The islands are best visited outside the summer months, when they are cooler, drier and less crowded.

See also:

• Chile - When to go: Climate charts