Visiting Chile in April

As autumn continues across Chile, the whole country starts to get quieter, with hotels closing for the season across Patagonia and rain becoming more likely. It’s still possible to visit Torres del Paine, although be prepared for temperatures around zero. Some of the longer and more challenging hikes like the W Trek may not be recommended this month. You will get to see some of the fabulous autumnal colours across the region though, along with some of the shyer wildlife such as puma, which avoids the crowds of summer.

The best places to visit in Chile in April are further north though. Now is when to go to Santiago de Chile, with pleasantly warm temperatures to sightsee here and in Valparaiso after the heat of summer, as well as a chance to explore the winelands as harvest continues this month – the valleys look spectacular this month too, with festivals in full swing.

The autumn colours begin to fade in the Lake District but you can start to see snow on the peaks, plus there’s some great hiking in the central regions this month before temperatures drop too far during the winter months. In the north, the Atacama desert stays dry and warm enough to explore during the day, including the geysers at San Pedro de Atacama. Be prepared to wrap up at night, especially if you’re planning to go stargazing.

Rainfall increases slightly this month in Easter Island, though it’s still a good time to explore without the crowds of summer.

Festivals: The grape harvesting festivals, or Vendimias, are at their peak this month – you’ll find festivals across the winelands from late February onwards, but one of the best this month is the Pirque Wine Festival, one of the last of the season and one of the biggest, with dancing, music and equestrian displays.

The Campeonato Nacional de Rodeo, Chile’s biggest rodeo event, takes place this month (or late March) in Rancagua, with some of the country’s best riders competing.

The Chile + Cultura festival takes place across the country this month, celebrating film-making, art, poetry, dance and music.

Best for: Santiago, grape harvest in the winelands, Lake District, puma in Torres del Paine