Recognized as one of the most arid regions on our planet, the Atacama Desert has a favorable climate for a trip practically every month of the year. However, it’s important to be aware of the seasons and the changes that the climate causes in each period.
The Atacama is a destination of extremes, not only in terms of the beauty of its landscapes but also in terms of altitude and temperatures. These two points combined, along with intense winds, can result in conditions that require the traveler to be prepared beforehand.
Because of this, understanding what the climate is like in the Atacama Desert, the best time to travel and how you should prepare for any time of year is essential for a good travel experience.
On trips above 4,000 meters above sea level, even in the hottest months of the year, it is often very cold. As the tours usually start very early, some even before sunrise, the temperatures tend to be even colder.
When is the best time to travel to the Atacama Desert?
When we talk about the climate in the Atacama Desert, it’s important to note that weather changes are possible at any time of year. Even so, the northern region of Chile favors travelers with good conditions practically every month of the year.
For those looking for milder temperatures, the months between March and May and September and November are the most suitable.
Between June and August, winter in the southern hemisphere, the coldest temperatures are more intense, especially on high altitude tours. Despite the cold, the desert landscapes during this period are even more exuberant.
The period that deserves attention in terms of climate is from December to January, known as the Altiplano winter. In these months, although quite rare, it can rain in some parts of the Atacama Desert. Heavy rain in the region can cause unforeseen events such as blocked roads, canceled tours and even, in more extreme situations, the evacuation of critical places.
Important for your trip
On walks above 4,000 meters above sea level, even in the hottest months of the year, it’s often very cold. As the tours usually start very early, some even before sunrise, the temperatures tend to be even colder.
It’s worth noting that we’re talking about a destination of extremes and that climate change on our planet can produce surprises at any time of year, so it’s important to bear in mind that adjustments to your trip may be necessary.
This is one of the most important points to consider when choosing a reliable agency that works in accordance with all security protocols. This way you can guarantee not only a safe trip, but also the right solution to any unforeseen circumstances during your trip.
Atacama weather throughout the year
Weather and temperature in all months
Being prepared for extreme conditions, even if they don’t occur on your trip, is always the best way to avoid trouble. Here’s a look at the weather and temperatures in Atacama throughout the year and get ready for one of the most incredible trips you’ll ever take.
January in the Atacama Desert
The month of January in the Atacama Desert is marked by the so-called altiplano winter – even though it is summer in the southern hemisphere. This phenomenon, which can confuse foreign travelers, is already well known among the local people.
Temperatures are higher during the day, especially in the San Pedro de Atacama region and also on the nearby tours, such as Lagunas Escondidas, Valle de la Luna and Valle de la Muerte. As for the tours above 4,000 meters, although this is a time of better conditions and not so intense cold, you may encounter snow and even storms.
In San Pedro de Atacama in January, temperatures range from 8ºC at the start of the day to 25ºC in the hottest hours. At altitude, as we’ve mentioned, it’s possible to find sub-zero temperatures.
February in the Atacama Desert
The month of February in Atacama continues with the characteristics of the altiplano winter. Warm days and cool nights, especially in the San Pedro de Atacama region.
For high-altitude treks, it’s worth considering extra protection for possible weather changes. Temperatures vary between 8ºC at the start of the day and 24ºC in the hottest hours – always considering the averages recorded in the town of San Pedro de Atacama.
On high-altitude tours, as we’ve mentioned, temperatures can be low and the thermal sensation negative.
March in the Atacama Desert
In March the altiplano winter comes to an end and one of the best periods for a trip to the Atacama Desert begins. During the day the temperatures are no longer so intense and just after sunset the icy winds begin to appear.
In this month, the lowest temperatures on the altitude tours are already more frequent and it’s important to be prepared. The more extreme tours, such as Geysers and Volcanoes, are an excellent choice for this period.
Temperatures, recorded in the town of San Pedro de Atacama, vary between 5ºC at the start of the day and 24ºC in the hottest hours.
April in the Atacama Desert
April is one of the best months to take a trip to the Atacama Desert. The period, which we call the intermediate season, maintains excellent weather conditions and temperatures that are not as extreme as in the coming winter.
With the arrival of fall, the days only get hotter in the areas near the town of San Pedro de Atacama, reaching close to 24ºC. After sunset, temperatures drop and the day can start with the thermometer registering around 3ºC.
During this period you’ll easily find sub-zero temperatures on walks above 4,000 meters, so it’s always important to keep warm.
May in the Atacama Desert
The month of May in the Atacama Desert follows the characteristics of the fall months. Temperatures are lower at night and around sunrise, hovering around 2ºC.
During the day, in the San Pedro de Atacama region, thermometers rise to close to 24ºC, reflecting a wide range of temperatures.
As in previous months, high-altitude tours are experiencing increasingly low temperatures and require more protection from travelers. By the end of May, snow can be seen covering the volcanoes and the highest points of the Andes.
June in the Atacama Desert
June is the month that marks the arrival of winter in the Atacama Desert and with it, the lowest temperatures. Although the intense cold worries many travelers, the landscapes during this period are even more beautiful and exuberant.
In the San Pedro de Atacama region, temperatures vary between 2ºC at the start of the day and 21ºC in the hottest hours – with the wind, the thermal sensation is lower.
For the high altitude tours, above 4,000 meters, you can get up to -15ºC at sunrise – or even colder, as is normal at the El Tatio Geysers.
July in the Atacama Desert
July is a month of extreme temperatures in the Atacama Desert. During this period, the cold is more intense at night and the winds begin to blow more strongly.
In addition, this month marks the vacation season and the arrival of many travelers to the destination. For this reason, to guarantee good accommodation options and prices, we recommend booking in advance.
We have a list of selected hotels that we recommend. All of them can be booked through Booking.com, remembering that by booking your hotel through our links you contribute to our work and don’t spend anything extra on it.
In July, the temperature varies between 1ºC and 21ºC in the San Pedro de Atacama region. On tours such as the Geysers El Tatio, temperatures can be close to -20ºC before sunrise.
August in the Atacama Desert
Like July, the month of August in the Atacama has the same characteristics as winter: nights and early mornings with low temperatures, intense winds and days with mild temperatures.
For those who want to go hiking at altitude, the snowy landscape is a sure thing during this period. Places like the Antiplanic Lagoons can have their landscape altered by the arrival of snow.
In the San Pedro de Atacama region the variation is between 2ºC at the start of the day and 22ºC at the hottest time.
September in the Atacama Desert
September marks the end of winter in the southern hemisphere and also of a month of strong winds in the Atacama Desert. Although temperatures rise again during this period, it is still possible to find the Andes covered in snow and very cold at altitude.
It’s worth noting that September is marked by commemorative dates in Brazil and also in Chile, which makes movement in the Atacama quite intense during this period. As this is considered a high season month, it’s very important to plan ahead.
September temperatures in San Pedro de Atacama vary between 3ºC at the start of the day and 23ºC in the hottest hours – with the wind, the thermal sensation is lower.
October in the Atacama Desert
After the Chilean holiday season and the arrival of warmer temperatures, October is one of the best months to travel to the Atacama Desert.
Spring arrives with lush days in the desert and the streets of the town of San Pedro de Atacama become quieter. Temperatures in this region vary between 4ºC and 24ºC, but it can feel colder near sunrise and warmer in the middle of the afternoon.
On high-altitude tours, the start of the day can still register sub-zero temperatures, so even with winter over, it’s important to travel well equipped.
November in the Atacama Desert
November is an excellent month to travel to the Atacama Desert. The temperatures are already much milder, the days are warmer and you don’t have the presence of the altiplano winter yet.
In San Pedro, the temperature range is between 5ºC and 24ºC, with weaker winds than in previous months. In the afternoons, in the town, the thermal sensation is higher and at altitude it’s not so cold.
As there are important public holidays in Brazil this month, our suggestion is for days off. If you have flexibility in your schedule, plan your trip for before or after the holiday. If you don’t have a choice, remember to plan your trip in advance.
December in the Atacama Desert
December marks the arrival of summer in the southern hemisphere and higher temperatures in the Atacama Desert. It also marks the beginning of the period known as the altiplano winter.
Despite the higher temperatures and arid climate, the altiplano winter comes with possible storms and sudden climatic changes.
It’s worth noting that this period is also the start of the vacation and travel season, which can deplete accommodation options and drive up prices. Once again, if you decide to travel during this month, planning and booking ahead is very important.
Temperatures in December in the Atacama range from 7ºC at the start of the day to 24ºC in the hottest hours. With the region’s climate, it is common for the thermal sensation to be higher than this average.
Remember that on high-altitude treks, above 4,000 meters, you can get up to -2ºC at the start of the day, including snow and rain in some periods – changes that come with the altiplano winter.
IMPORTANT
Book your accommodation in advance
In San Pedro de Atacama you have a wide range of accommodation options. From simple hostels to luxurious hotels and resorts. With a good search, you can find comfortable and cozy options at fair prices.
We recommend Booking.com as a great option for booking your hotel safely and at the best prices. Booking is one of the safest hotel booking tools used in destinations around the world.
By booking through our links, you not only guarantee a safe stay, but you also contribute to our work without spending anything extra. We appreciate your help in continuing this work, helping as many travelers as possible to get to know Chile.
