Weather in Chile in December

In the Southern Hemisphere, summer kicks off in December, making it an exciting month to visit Chile for outdoor pleasures. The weather in Chile in December is warm with clear skies and plenty of daylight hours, and the country’s varied landscapes are quite breathtaking. Whether you intend to hike the renowned trails of Patagonia, sunbathe on Pacific Coast sandy beaches, or maybe a wine tasting in the verdant central valleys, December has something to suit all tastes. Additionally, the vibrancy of your trip will be enhanced by the growing festive atmosphere as Christmas and New Year’s celebrations draw near.

Chile in December at a glance

The weather in Chile in December delivers beautiful warm, sunny days, making it an ideal month for travel across Chile. The landscapes are stunning, and there is a festive atmosphere in anticipation of the Christmas period.

• On average, December temperatures across the country range from 50°F to 86°F (10°C to 30°C), but this will vary from region to region.
• November is a perfect time for visiting just about any destination or attraction in Chile, but highlights include trekking in Torres del Paine, stargazing in the Atacama Desert, wine tasting in central Chile, relaxing on the beaches of Viña del Mar, and celebrating the vacation season in Santiago and Valparaíso.
• The number of travelers to all regions steadily increases throughout November peaking as Christmas and New Year approaches. As the demand grows with visitors arriving from around the world, so do the rates for accommodations and flights; so reservation early is highly recommended.
• Torres del Paine is a popular tourist spot and will be much busier toward the end of the month, so if you don’t want to share the hiking trails with too many people avoid this time.

Is December a good time to visit Chile?

The lovely summer weather in Chile in November provides countless options for discovery and fun. As the nation welcomes the warmth and vitality of summer, this energetic month assumes a festive atmosphere throughout the country. This, combined with the stunning natural beauty makes December a wonderful time to visit. The school vacations and seasonal events increase the demand for accommodations in December so early reservations are encouraged.

Before the summer weather reaches peak temperatures, early November is a prime time to enjoy outdoor activities. The hiking trails in Patagonia are in excellent shape for trekking. Long daylight hours are perfect for exploring the Torres del Paine, with its spectacular glaciers, mountains, and turquoise lakes. Many visitors are drawn to kayaking, hiking, and swimming in the picturesque Lake District. Beachgoers retreat to coastal towns like Viña del Mar and La Serena, while Valparaíso gears up for its renowned New Year’s Eve fireworks show. 

Central Chile in December is inviting, due to Santiago’s and Valparaíso’s buzzing vacation vibe, and the sunny days ideal for sipping wine at a vineyard. In the Atacama Desert, December clear skies are especially ideal for stargazing.

Average daily temperatures in December

Chile’s geography means diverse temperatures across the country. In December, the warm, sunny weather in the north and central regions contrasts with the cooler but pleasant summer conditions in Patagonia. The Atacama Desert daytime highs average from 79°F to 86°F (26°C to 30°C), with cooler nights around 50°F to 54°F (10°C to 12°C). 

Santiago and Central Chile range from 55°F to 84°F (13°C to 29°C) in the day, with mild nights between 54°F and 59°F (12°C to 15°C). While Patagonia sees comfortable daytime averages between 54°F and 63°F (12°C and 17°C), dropping to 41°F to 45°F (5°C to 7°C) in the evening.

What about the crowds and costs?

Chile in December enters the start of the busiest season, when summer begins and vacation travelers arrive. In early December, tourism is relatively quiet throughout the regions, but Christmas and New Year bring many more visitors to popular destinations like Patagonia, Santiago, and Valparaíso. 

Flights, accommodations, and tours cost more as demand rises, and in late December planning ahead is essential to secure availability and lower rates. Many places outside the vacation hotspots remain cheaper and less busy. Despite the crowds, December’s festive spirit, warm weather, and lively events make it an unforgettable time to visit Chile.

Things to do in Chile in December

The weather in Chile in December delivers some stunning sunny days from the north to the south. Visitors and locals alike flock to the natural wonders, coastal towns, and festive cities over the Christmas vacation period. Here are some of the best things to do in Chile this month.

Patagonia adventures

December is a prime time for adventures in the Patagonia region. The pleasant weather conditions and long daylight hours are idyllic for multi-day treks and kayaking in fjords. A highlight for adventurers is kayaking along Glacier Gray or embarking on guided wildlife tours to spot guanacos and Andean condors.

Christmas in the cities

Santiago is a magical place to spend Christmas and New Year’s. The city is illuminated with festive lights, markets come alive, and street performances add to the atmosphere. In the spirit of the vacation season, stroll through the ancient Lastarria neighborhood, enjoy some Chilean food at Mercado Central, or climb Cerro San Cristóbal to see the cityscape. The coastal city of Valparaíso hosts a spectacular New Year’s Eve celebration when the bay is lit up by the famous fireworks display.

Atacama exploration

The Atacama Desert is a magical destination, and exploring the area in December under warm, sunny skies is especially appealing. Marvel at the dramatic moon-like landscape and El Tatio Geysers at sunrise, relax in the Puritama Hot Springs or take a stargazing tour that offers unparalleled views of the cosmos.

Festivals and events in Chile in December

The festive season falls in December when you can celebrate Christmas with the Chileans and ring in the New Year amid a plethora of cultural and vacation events. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Feria Internacional de Artesanía (International Craft Fair): Held in Santiago, this event showcases handcrafted goods from across Chile and other Latin American countries. It’s a great opportunity to find unique souvenirs and learn about local artisans.
• Christmas celebrations: Cities and towns across Chile light up with festive decorations, markets, and events leading up to Christmas. Plaza de Armas in Santiago becomes a focal point for vacation cheer, featuring concerts, nativity scenes, and family-friendly activities.
• New Year’s Eve in Valparaíso: Valparaíso’s New Year’s Eve fireworks display is one of the most spectacular in South America. The celebrations include live music, street parties, and food vendors, creating an unforgettable experience for visitors.

Plan your trip with our Chile itineraries

Our Chile itineraries help you hit the highlights without the stress of overplanning. Think of them as a flexible guide that you can adjust to suit your travel style.

• 10-day Chile itinerary: Capture the essence of Chile with a mix of urban energy, iconic sights, and natural wonders.
• 14-day Chile itinerary: Dive deeper into Chile’s extremes — from the otherworldly Atacama Desert to the glaciers of Patagonia.