Chile

October – May

It is highly dependent on which part of Chile you’re in and what you’d like to do but generally speaking visiting close to or during the Southern Hemisphere summer months is a good bet. 

Many of the most prestigious climbs in the Chile/Argentina Andes – e.g. Ojos del Salado, Aconcagua, etc – are only possible during the height of summer (December-February) when the conditions are ideal. 

Further south, summer is also a good time to go hiking in Patagonia but this period is also notoriously windy. Visiting during the shoulder months (October-November and March-April) are probably preferable but these periods can potentially be colder and snowier. The weather this far south is always unpredictable so proper planning is essential.

Chile is extremely varied geographically and has many different climatic zones. You’ll encounter some of the driest and wettest places on Earth here so you’ll need to pack accordingly. 

• The Altiplano (Northern Andes, ~17°S – 23°S)
  The Altiplano has a cold desert climate with dry conditions, intense sun, and extreme temperature shifts between hot days and freezing nights. High-altitude trails (3,500m+ / 11,500ft+) offer stunning volcanoes, salt flats, and lagoons but pose risks of altitude sickness. Best time to hike: April–November to avoid summer storms.
• Central Andes (27°S – 38°S)
  This region has a Mediterranean-to-Alpine climate, with warm, dry summers and snowy winters, making high-altitude hikes best from November to March. The mountains feature glaciers, valleys, and challenging climbs, with unpredictable weather at higher elevations. Altitude sickness and sudden storms are the main challenges.
• Patagonia (Southern Chile, ~45°S – 56°S)
  Patagonia has a subpolar oceanic climate, with cool summers (5–15°C / 41–59°F), strong winds, and unpredictable rain year-round. Famous for jagged peaks, glaciers, and remote landscapes, it’s best for trekking from November to March when conditions are milder. Expect rapidly changing weather and intense winds, especially in open areas.

For our Chilean trips, we usually stay in a mix of 3-star hotels, local bed and breakfast guesthouses, and tents.

The tents we use for hiking/climbing activities are robust, 4-season tents built to battle the high-altitude elements.

Prices are based on same gender room sharing (two people to a room and tent).

Single tent + hotel rooms are available with an extra cost. 

There are three main mobile operators in Chile: Entel, Movistar, and Claro.

You can purchase a local SIM card at major airports like Santiago International Airport or at various shops in cities such as Santiago, Puerto Natales, or Punta Arenas if you’d like local data during your trip.

Note that in remote mountain areas and Patagonia, cell signal is very limited, except occasionally at higher elevations.

For emergencies, your guide carries a satellite communication device, ensuring we are always able to stay in contact.

Chile has always been one of the safest countries to visit in South America and usually gets higher accolades from travelers. That being said, it’s still South America, which has much higher crime rates than many global averages.

Travelers and trekkers in Chile should be aware of several safety concerns. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag-snatching, is common in tourist areas of Santiago, Valparaíso, and other major cities. It’s best to stay alert, avoid displaying valuables, and use reputable transportation services.

For trekkers, Chile’s diverse landscapes present natural hazards. The Andes and Patagonia offer stunning hikes but come with unpredictable weather, rough terrain, and altitude sickness risks. Always check forecasts, carry proper gear, and inform someone of your plans. In remote areas like Torres del Paine or the Atacama Desert, limited cell service and emergency services make self-sufficiency crucial.

Chilean cuisine is a rich blend of indigenous Mapuche traditions and Spanish, European, and even some Middle Eastern influences. Due to the country’s long coastline, seafood plays a significant role in its gastronomy. Dishes like ceviche (marinated raw fish), paila marina (seafood soup), and congrio frito (fried conger eel) are must-tries for seafood lovers.

Meat lovers will enjoy Chile’s famous asado (barbecue), featuring grilled beef, pork, or lamb. Another classic is empanadas de pino, baked pastries filled with seasoned beef, onions, olives, and hard-boiled eggs. In the south, indigenous Mapuche-inspired dishes like curanto—a hearty stew of seafood, meats, and potatoes—are popular.

For drinks, Chile is renowned for its wines, especially Carménère and Cabernet Sauvignon. Pisco sour, a cocktail made with grape brandy, lemon juice, and sugar, is a favorite. Non-alcoholic options include mote con huesillo, a sweet peach and wheat drink. 

United States Citizens:

• Visa Requirement: U.S. citizens do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days.

• Tourist Card: Upon arrival, you’ll receive a Tourist Card (“Tarjeta de Turismo”) valid for up to 90 days. Keep this document safe, as you’ll need to return it upon departure. If lost, obtain a replacement from the International Police (PDI) before leaving Chile.

• Passport Validity: Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay and in good condition.

European Union Citizens:

• Visa Requirement: Citizens of EU member states can enter Chile without a visa for tourism purposes for up to 90 days.

• Tourist Card: Similar to U.S. citizens, EU travelers will receive a Tourist Card upon arrival, which must be retained and returned upon departure.

• Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date.

United Kingdom Citizens:

• Visa Requirement: UK citizens can visit Chile for up to 90 days without a visa.

• Tourist Card: Upon arrival, you’ll be issued a Tourist Card valid for the duration of your stay, which must be surrendered upon departure.

• Passport Validity: Your passport should be valid for the entire duration of your stay in Chile.

Additional Considerations for All Travelers:

• Extensions: If you wish to extend your stay beyond 90 days, you can apply for an extension at the Chilean Immigration Office.

The official currency of Chile is the Chilean Peso. 

ATMs are common in Santiago, Calama, and other urban areas but less common in more off-the-beaten-path places where one would normally hike. We recommend bringing a small amount of foreign cash to have on hand in case your cards fail to work.

Valparaíso – This bohemian port city is a vibrant maze of color, culture, and history. Wandering through its steep, winding streets, you’ll encounter stunning street art, historic funiculars, and sweeping views of the Pacific. Valparaíso isn’t just a place to visit; it’s a place to get lost in, to soak up the creative energy, and to experience the city’s unique rhythm. If you have time, exploring its diverse neighborhoods and coastline will reveal why it has long been a haven for artists and dreamers.

Bariloche – Nestled in Argentina’s Lake District, Bariloche is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. Whether you’re drawn by the snow-capped peaks, glacial lakes, or world-renowned chocolate, this Patagonian gem has something for everyone. Hiking in Nahuel Huapi National Park, skiing in the winter, or simply enjoying the stunning alpine scenery makes Bariloche an unforgettable experience. If you have extra time, venturing deeper into the surrounding wilderness will only make you appreciate its beauty even more.

Valle de la Luna – Stepping into Valle de la Luna is like landing on another planet. This surreal desert landscape in Chile’s Atacama region is shaped by wind and time, creating dramatic rock formations, vast salt flats, and otherworldly hues that change with the light. Whether you’re hiking through its jagged terrain, watching the sunset paint the cliffs in shades of red and orange, or gazing at one of the clearest night skies on Earth, Valle de la Luna offers an experience that feels truly out of this world.

Aconcagua – Towering at nearly 7,000 meters, Aconcagua is the highest peak in the Americas and a challenge that beckons mountaineers from around the world. But even if you’re not aiming for the summit, the surrounding landscapes of the Andes offer incredible trekking opportunities, from scenic day hikes to multi-day adventures. The journey here is as rewarding as the destination, with rugged beauty, remote valleys, and a sense of awe that only the high mountains can provide. If you have time to acclimatize and explore, Aconcagua will leave a lasting impression.

Patagonia – Getting lost in Patagonia and exploring it at one’s own pace is a bit of a dream come true. If you have the time, exploring southern Chile could reveal to you some of the finest hikes and landscapes you’ve ever seen. Make no mistake though: Patagonia is not something you tackle in a few extra days: you’ll need plenty of time and maybe even additional support depending on where you’re going. Torres del Paine, Tierra del Fuego (Argentina), Pumalín, and much, much more are all superlative options.