When to go & weather

Weather

Chile's central valley enjoys a Mediterranean climate that makes it an ideal spot for growing grapes, apples and other fruits. Golden sunshine bathes the region most days from about mid-September until mid-May, with little in the way of precipitation. Obviously this trend changes the higher you climb the Andes to the east. The area's ski resorts tend to open at a similar time to those nearest Santiago (mid-June to end September), although Chillán sometimes has snowfalls in mid-May, enabling it to open earlier.

In coastal areas, the weather is not quite as dependable as it is inland. Morning fogs can mar the ocean view in some of the beach resorts, and the area is prone to more rainfall. Winter temperatures average around 10°C to 15°C, while in the summer they can rise to around 30°C.