When winter hits the Western Hemisphere, who can blame the sun-worshippers that jump ship for summer in the Southern Hemisphere? From laidback coastal towns and buzzing cities to undulating mountain ranges and dense rainforests, South America has it all. But in this vast and varied land mass, it can be hard to know where to visit at what time of year. Luckily, we know where to go in search of sunshine and how to swerve seasonal rains. Read on for our guide of where to go in South America in winter…
1. Colombia
2. Chile
3. Peru
4. Brazil
5. Argentina
Colombia
First up on our list of places to visit in South America in winter is Colombia. December kicks off Colombia’s dry season, so expect sunny skies and warm climes upon touchdown. On the coast, stick to the sun-drenched Caribbean Sea for reliable weather (the Pacific coast is prone to downpours during these months). From discovering the jungle-clad paradisical beaches of Tayrona National Park to touring colourful Cartagena’s UNESCO-protected sites, there’s plenty to see and do in this corner of the country. Colombia during our winter isn’t just for beach bums, though. The West Andes, which run parallel to the Pacific, are also at their best during these months; lace up your hiking boots to enjoy the cool mountain air and just-right temperatures. Colombia’s cosmopolitan capital, Bogota – nestled in the eastern branch of the Andes at 7,500 ft above sea level – also boasts beautiful weather if you can handle the odd rain shower.
Image by Kevin Faingnaert
Chile
It'll come as no surprise that this skinny 2,700-mile-long country hosts a multitude of climates. Chile might be chillier in the south, but head north between December and February to catch the country’s summer. The nation’s plentiful coastal towns enjoy the best weather; skip sweltering Santiago and head to vibrant Valparaiso, a central coast port town with colourful buildings, street art and beautiful beaches. Or discover some of the country’s best sandy stretches further north in Zapallar. And if you fancy a far-flung adventure? Fly to Easter Island, a tiny speck in the South Pacific over 2,000 miles from the mainland. It might be crowded at this time of year, but the mysterious Moai statues and lush landscapes will make up for that. Summer is also the best time to explore the dramatic landscapes of Torres del Paine in Chilean Patagonia, so you can tick this off the bucket list too.
Image by Alix Pardo
Peru
Like neighbouring Chile, Peru’s diverse landscapes of rainforests, mountains and coast each have their own microclimates. Although we’d recommend steering clear of the Peruvian Andes and the Amazon (which enter their wet season from December until April), Peru’s coastal region is one of the best places to visit in South America in winter. But where to begin with over 1,550 miles to discover? Surfers can enjoy consistent Pacific swell (and warm waters) on Peru’s northern beaches, including the famed Chicama – home to the longest wave in the world – and the lively surf town of Máncora, near the Ecuadorian border. Our winter months are also best for visiting Peru’s coastal capital, Lima, and avoiding the ‘La Garua’ fog that shrouds the city for much of the year. After a day spent touring the hip Barranco neighbourhood, discovering a pre-Inca pyramid and meandering the Malecon (a six-mile-long cliffside walkway), sip on well-deserved pisco sours and tuck into fresh ceviche at one of Lima’s reputable eateries.
Image by Xavier Popy/REA
Brazil
In our opinion, the mighty nation of Brazil—the largest country in South America—is a wonderful destination at any time of year. However, there’s no debate that it really comes into its own during the summertime. Although this is the hottest, busiest and priciest time to visit Rio de Janeiro, Brazil’s summer months are also the most atmospheric. Experience fun like no other as the city buzzes with passionate partygoers from around the world, who descend upon Rio for New Year’s Eve and Carnival (the latter usually takes place in February). Head north of Rio to cool off on the beautiful (but busy) beaches of Buzios, or Cabo Frio for a more relaxed vibe. Further inland, the lush, rolling landscape of Minas Gerais beckons with its gorgeous weather. Wander the cobbled streets of the UNESCO-listed city Ouro Petro, marvel at baroque architecture in sleepy Tiradentes, or explore the great outdoors in Serra do Cipo National Park.
Image by Alix Pardo
Argentina
Our final pick for where to visit in South America in winter is Argentina. Temperatures in Buenos Aires average around 25°C in the Argentine summer – although occasionally climb as high as 40°C. The cooling Pampero and Sudestada winds do offer some respite, however, and make touring the city’s street art, sampling its parrillas (steakhouses) and browsing its beautiful bookshops a delightful experience. This is also the best time of year to visit the 400,000-square-mile Argentine Patagonia, thanks to mild temperatures between 15 and 20°C, long, light-filled days and little rainfall. You might feel some strong summer winds, but conditions are generally optimal for exploring this awe-inspiring corner of the world. Whether visiting the colossal Perito Moreno Glacier or road-tripping past jaw-dropping scenery on legendary Route 40, Patagonia pairs perfectly with sunny skies.
Image by Mathieu Richer Mamousse
Written by Hannah Whitehall | Header image by Faustine Poidevin
