Visiting Chile in January

It’s peak summer in Chile in January, and one of the best times to visit the country – although also one of the busiest. Many residents leave Santiago though, as temperatures hit 30C, so it can be a quieter month to explore the city and colourful Valparaiso, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage for its vibrant architecture and funiculars climbing the steep hillsides.

It’s high season in Patagonia too, where you can explore the wild and beautiful landscapes during some of the year’s best weather. There’s up to 18 hours of sunlight, meaning long days for hiking, plus a good chance of seeing whales and other animal life this month. The island of Chiloé is one of the few places in the world where both the Humboldt and the Magellanic penguin nest. It’s not too hot despite being midsummer, with highs of around 20C in Torres del Paine, although it’s cooler at Punta Arenas.

The country’s beaches are also packed this month, with locals and visitors making the most of the sun, and the perfect time for stargazing in the Atacama desert with brilliantly clear skies. Head to San Pedro de Atacama, the driest place on earth, ringed by volcanoes and salt flats, and home to bubbling geysers. Or discover more of the country’s fabulous landscapes this month. This month is also a great one to drive one of the world’s most memorable road trips along the Carretera Austral through the Andes, although watch out for horseflies in Chile’s Lake District.

It’s one of the busiest months on Easter Island too, but if you’re wondering when to go to Chile’s fascinating Polynesian territory, the weather is ideal in January.

Festivals: Chile starts the new year with fireworks and festivities, as well as parades and processions for Three Kings Day on January 6.

On January 20, the Fiesta de San Sebastian is celebrated in Yumbel , with thousands of pilgrims taking part in one of the country’s most important religious events.

Best for: Hiking and wildlife in Patagonia, exploring the whole country, stargazing in the Atacama, road trips.