Weather in Chile in May

Fewer tourists and a crisp fall charm mean Chile is appealing in this off-peak month. The weather in Chile in May brings cooler temperatures, which signals the transition to winter, however, regional temperature variations can be significant. Whether hiking through the national forests or admiring the tranquil beauty of the Lake District, travelers may have a more serene and unhurried experience in May. Clear skies in the Atacama Desert make it a great option for outdoor activities, and May is a favorite month for wine tasting in the middle valleys because the foliage is at its most brilliant.

Chile in May at a glance

A quieter prelude to winter, Chile in May is a time of transition, when the country moves from landscapes that are alive with fall colors to the chillier winter months.

• Average temperatures vary between areas. For example, Santiago experiences temperatures between 45°F and 70°F (7°C to 21°C), while Patagonia sees a chillier range of 36°F to 48°F (2°C to 9°C).
• In May, popular things to do encompass exploring lively cities such as Santiago and Valparaíso, going wine tasting in the central valleys, and hiking in the Atacama Desert.
• Being an off-season month, May gains from less tourists, so attractions are quieter and national parks are more peaceful. Off-season prices generally make flights, accommodations, and tours more reasonably priced.
• The weather in Chile in May does have drawbacks. Cooler weather restricts activities in Patagonia, and fewer daylight hours limit opportunities for outdoor exploration. However, exploring museums and other indoor attractions are best enjoyed in May.

Is May a good time to visit Chile?

Cooler temperatures and a calmer vibe characterize late fall in Chile. If you’re looking for a less hectic and more budget-friendly trip, then May is the perfect month to travel. There are still lots of things to do, even though some places are starting to get ready for winter.

During the milder months in Santiago, you can enjoy the city’s museums, historical buildings, and markets without having to fight your way through the crowds and summer heat. The allure of the coastal cities such as Valparaíso remains, thanks to the combination of cultural offerings and breathtaking scenery. Fall foliage still enhances central Chile, where tours of the Casablanca and Colchagua Valley vineyards continue, but with the benefit of being less busy. 

As the days get shorter and the temperatures cool off, Patagonia becomes less of a draw, but photographers will still want to visit to capture stunning pictures of the landscape. Clear skies and warmer weather, ideal for desert adventures, persists in the Atacama Desert.

Average daily temperatures in May

Due to the country’s varied terrain, the weather in Chile in May can differ from region to region. May can be wet in the south, whereas northern regions normally stay warm with very little precipitation. In the Atacama Desert you may expect daily highs of 63°F to 68°F (17°C to 20°C) and chilly nights of 34°F to 41°F (1°C to 5°C). 

Daytime highs In Santiago and central Chile can reach 54°F to 63°F (12°C to 17°C), while it cools off to 43°F and 46°F (6°C to 8°C) at night. Typical temperatures in Patagonia range from 41°F to 50°F (5°C to 10°C), dropping to 30°F (-1°C).

What about the crowds and costs?

May is one of the quietest times to travel to Chile, with significantly fewer people visiting major destinations and sites. Consequently, the national parks and cultural attractions, including those in Santiago and Valparaíso, are easier to get around. Additionally, you can save money by going during this off-season period. 

Compared to summer, flights, accommodations, and tours are priced lower. This combination of less tourists and cheaper rates makes May a perfect month for budget-conscious travelers to explore Chile. Even though the cooler weather in Chile in May limits activities in Patagonia, the affordability still makes it a great choice for a cheap getaway.

Things to do in Chile in May

May is quieter and cooler, ideal for those seeking reflection and a break from the usual tourist crowds. From city sightseeing and taking in fascinating museums to exploring the country’s diverse regions, here are some of the best things to do in Chile this month.

Museums in Santiago

May’s chillier days are the ideal time to visit indoor attractions. Visitors who are interested in history and art should not miss the opportunity to explore Santiago’s Chilean Museum of Pre-Columbian Art and La Moneda Cultural Center.

Chiloé Island mystique

Located off the west coast of Chile, Chiloé in May is characterized by misty forests, rain-soaked landscapes, and hearty seafood stews. Admire the picturesque palafitos, colorful stilt houses built on the water, and learn about this island’s legends, while embracing the moody weather. 

Hiking Valle de la Luna

Under beautiful clear skies but without the summer heat, the Atacama Desert in May is an excellent time for hiking among the dramatic rock formations and salt apartments of the Valle de la Luna (Valley of the Moon).

Festivals and events in Chile in May

The month of May doesn’t have a particularly busy festival calendar. However, there are a few noteworthy events and festivities that provide visitors with a chance to experience Chile’s heritage and local traditions in a setting that is both relaxed and authentic.

• A national vacation in Chile, Chilean Naval Day is celebrated annually on May 2, and commemorates the historic Battle of Iquique. Coastal cities like Valparaíso and Iquique are locations where patriotic parades, ceremonies, and displays are held to honor the maritime heritage of Chile.
• In May, harvest festivals continue to be held all around the central wine regions. These festivals take place at vineyards to commemorate the grape harvest by offering wine tastings, traditional Chilean music, and delectable local dishes. Amid stunning autumnal scenery, these small gatherings allow visitors the opportunity to savor the finest aspects of Chilean wine-making traditions.

Plan your trip with our Chile itineraries

Planning your trip doesn’t have to be complicated. Our Chile itineraries give you a clear path to the country’s best experiences, with plenty of room to adapt.

• 10-day Chile itinerary: Ten days to soak up Chile’s highlights, from buzzing Santiago to breathtaking landscapes.
• 14-day Chile itinerary: With two weeks, you’ll dive into Chile’s dramatic wilderness and connect with local traditions.