WHEN TO TRAVEL TO CHILE

Location

Climate

Understanding the Chilean climate to choose the best season

Chile stretches almost 4,300 km from north to south, offering a wide variety of climates. So, before deciding when to go to Chile, it's important to know the specific climatic characteristics of each region:

• Northern Chile The region is characterized by a desert climate, with high temperatures all year round and little rainfall. The best time to visit is between March and November.
• Central Chile The area enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with warm summers and mild winters. The ideal time to travel here is between October and April.
• Southern Chile The climate is temperate oceanic, with cold, rainy winters and cool summers. The best time to discover southern Chile is during the austral summer, between December and February.
• Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego The South Pacific: located in the extreme south of the country, these regions enjoy a cold, wet climate all year round. They are best visited during the austral summer, from November to March.

Not-to-be-missed cultural events in Chile

Chile's rich history and cultural diversity are reflected in the many events it hosts throughout the year. Here are some of the most important:

Grape Harvest Festival (Fiesta de la Vendimia)

This celebration takes place every March in the Colchagua wine region in central Chile. It celebrates local wine production and offers a wide range of activities including tastings, traditional shows and Chilean cooking workshops.

Tirana Festival (La Tirana)

Every July, the small village of Alto Hospicio, near Iquique in northern Chile, hosts this religious festival in honor of Our Lady of Mount Carmel. The event attracts thousands of pilgrims who come to watch the processions, dance to traditional music and admire the colorful costumes of the participants.

Navy Day (Dia de la Marina)

Celebrated on May 21, this holiday commemorates the naval battle of Iquique, which took place in 1879 during the War of the Pacific between Chile and Peru. Military parades, fireworks and official ceremonies are held throughout the country to honor the Chilean army and its heroes.

Chilean National Day (Fiestas Patrias)

September 18 and 19 mark Chile's national holiday, also known as "El Dieciocho". The whole country celebrates this event, with traditional dance performances, equestrian parades, cueca (national dance) competitions and popular barbecues called "fondas".

Valdivian week (Semana Valdiviana)

Every year in February, the southern Chilean town of Valdivia hosts Valdivian Week, a cultural and tourist event featuring a variety of activities such as regattas, concerts, exhibitions of local crafts and a grand fireworks display to round off the week's festivities.

Public holidays and high and low season in Chile

In addition to cultural events, it is important to take into account public holidays and high and low season periods to choose the best time to go to Chile :

• Public holidays Public holidays: Several public holidays are celebrated in Chile, including the National Day (September 18 and 19), the Feast of the Immaculate Conception (December 8) and Christmas (December 25). Public services and some businesses may be closed on these days.
• High season The summer period, from December to February, is Chile's peak tourist season. Accommodation and transport prices rise accordingly, and we recommend booking in advance to avoid inconvenience.
• Low season The low season runs from April to November, with a dip in June and July. Accommodation and transport prices are generally more affordable, but some attractions and activities may be limited due to the less favorable climate in certain regions.

Latin America is a region marked by strong migration and tourism dynamics. Among its many countries, Chile stands out for its economic and political stability, as well as for the diversity of its landscapes.

Chile, a land of welcome for migrants

Located at the south-western tip of Latin America, Chile has seen sustained growth in its immigrant population in recent years. According to official data, the number of migrants residing in the country rose by almost 270% between 2005 and 2020, from 200,000 to over 740,000.

The main nationalities represented

According to Chilean government statistics, the majority of migrants in Chile come from neighboring countries such as :

• Peru : about 22% of migrants
• Colombia : 14%
• Bolivia : 10%

However, there is also a significant proportion of nationals from other parts of the world, including :

• Haiti: 13% of migrants
• Venezuela : close to 8%
• Argentina : about 6%

Most popular visas in Chile

Chile offers various options for those wishing to settle, work or simply visit the country. The main categories of visas issued by the consular authorities are :

Temporary residence visa

This type of visa is intended for foreigners wishing to stay in Chile for a specific period and for a specific reason, such as work, study or family reunion. It is generally valid for one year, and may be renewed once.

Worker visa

It allows the holder to engage in paid employment in the country. To obtain this visa, the employer must present a valid employment contract, as well as proof that the salary offered is equivalent to or higher than the Chilean minimum wage.

Student visa

Issued to persons admitted to a Chilean educational establishment, this visa entitles the holder to a stay of between three months and one year, renewable until completion of studies.

Tourist visa

It is intended for travellers wishing to discover the country for a maximum period of 90 days. This visa is exempt for nationals of many countries, including most European and North American countries.

International tourism in Chile: figures and trends

Thanks to its varied landscapes, from the arid deserts of the north to the Patagonian glaciers of the south, Chile is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. Here are a few key figures for international tourism in this country:

• Number of foreign visitors : nearly 4.5 million in 2019, an increase of more than 60% compared with 2010
• Tourism revenue : almost $3 billion in 2019, representing about 1.7% of national GDP
• Main issuing markets : Argentina (30%), Brazil (11%) and United States (8%)

The most popular destinations

Among the sites most visited by foreign tourists are :

• The capital Santiagowith its rich historical and cultural heritage
• The Valparaiso and its famous colorful houses
• THE Torres del Paine National Parkoffering spectacular views of Chilean Patagonia
• THE Atacama Desertconsidered the most arid in the world
• Easter Island and its mysterious moai

Take care when travelling as a tourist

Although Chile is a relatively safe country, you should take certain precautions during your stay. In particular, the authorities recommend :

• Comply with safety regulations in force in national parks and tourist sites
• Protect against pickpocketing and muggings, especially in areas frequented by tourists
• To be vigilant on the roads, because of the risk of traffic accidents.