Chile tours are a good idea almost any time of year; when you go depends on what you're hoping to experience! Just like many of our Latin America tours, Chilean Patagonia offers the best weather during the Southern Hemisphere's summer season, which is from December through February. Just keep in mind that sunny days do draw larger crowds of visitors to Torres del Paine National Park. On the other hand, the northern city of Santiago gets fewer visitors during the dry summer season, which is when many locals head out on their own vacations.

Spring and fall (known as shoulder seasons) could be considered the best times to visit Chile thanks to pleasant temperatures and less crowds—the best of both worlds! Spring in Chile is from September through November, and fall is from March to May. Go to marvel at spring blooms, changing leaves, and more during these beautiful times of year.

When planning trips to Chile, it's best to avoid the cold winter season, which goes from June through August in the Southern Hemisphere. This may be a good time for winter enthusiasts, but it's not the best time to walk around and explore. We want you to have a memorable, enjoyable experience on tour, which is why none of our Chile group tours depart at this time of year.

Delicious food, stunning artwork, great wine from Casablanca Valley–you'll enjoy many things when you visit Chile, but one of the most impressive is the natural beauty of Torres del Paine National Park in the Patagonia region. This is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Chile. Here, turquoise lakes, snow-capped mountains, and a variety of wildlife are just the beginning of the beauty you'll uncover.

For an even deeper dive into the nature of the area, head to Milodon Cave to stand in awe of prehistoric fossils. Or, add an excursion and head off the coast from Punta Arenas to visit Isla Magdalena, where Magellanic penguins nest.

Go beyond Chile's rugged natural landscapes and visit Santiago, the country's vibrant capital, where culture and history are at the forefront. Then, personalize your Chile travel by adding an excursion to Valparaíso, “The Jewel of the Pacific.” This destination is home to both a UNESCO-listed port and breathtaking street art, and offers a whole different view on the country.

No Chile tours are complete without a taste of seafood dishes, which are made from the freshest catches pulled from the Pacific. The destination also boasts plenty of fresh vegetables, fruits, and grains thanks to its varied geography and climate. Here are some of the top bites to try:

• Ceviche, or raw fish "cooked" in citrus juice and eaten with toppings like cilantro, pepper, and onion
• Native pink razor clams topped with parmesan cheese
• Chilean salmon and sea bass
• Mussels with salsa verde
• Empanadas, which are baked pastries filled with ingredients like seafood, cheese, or meat. A Chilean classic is the empanada de pino, which is filled with ground beef, raisins, onions, olives, and hard-boiled egg
• An Andean dish called pastel de choclo, or corn pie made with meat, potatoes, and vegetables
• Completos, Chilean hot dogs with toppings like mashed avocado, mayo, sauerkraut, tomato, and onion

Want more expert guidance on which Chilean cuisine to try (and where to find it)? Choose our Food & Wine: Uruguay, Argentina & Chile tour to taste some of the country's best dishes with the help of local guides.

One of the best ways to get the most out of Chile trips is by packing light. Our expert advice: Lay out everything you think you'll need, cut it in half, and cut it in half again! You'll have an easier time when you need to handle your baggage, and more space to pack souvenirs to bring home.

Whether you're exploring Chile's cities or setting off in the Patagonia region, you'll need a sturdy pair of walking shoes. Plus, layers always come in handy; temperatures can vary depending on whether you're in the city or a national park. Patagonia experiences varied weather including snow and strong winds, especially in the fall and winter, so bring a warmer layer, a rain coat, and a hat.

A camera is a must for any dream trip, but you may also want to throw a pair of binoculars in your carry-on so that you can get an up-close look at wildlife in Torres del Paine National Park, a highlight of all Chile tours. Long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and insect repellent are recommended for certain outdoor activities.

Have any questions about what to bring with you on our Chile guided tours? Our Customer Experience Team is always here to answer any questions you may have! You can also download the Go Ahead Tour Companion app once you're booked on trips to Chile, so you’ll have all the info you need about your trip right in your pocket.