THE BEST TIME TO VISIT SOUTH AMERICA

With weather conditions that are as diverse as the landscape, the best time to visit South America depends on which region you are planning to visit. It’s an enormous continent, spanning from the equator to Cape Horn, so planning the perfect South America tour depends entirely on what you wish to see and do. In contrast to North America and Europe, the seasons of the southern hemisphere of South America are reversed with the summer months falling between November and February with winters between June and August. 

 

Beagle Channel, Patagonia

 

There is also a massive mountain chain that runs through South America called The Andes and these mountains also have their own very distinctive weather patterns, largely based on the elevation in these mountains. For example, the best time to visit Patagonia in the south is between November and February, where harsh winters, from June through September will close down most local operations. The best time to visit Peru is actually during the dry season between May and October with blue skies and warmer daytime temperatures, but chilly evenings. Visitors will want to avoid the rainy season between January and March if they plan to visit the Andes, yet the beaches and coastal areas are in the middle of Summer! Let's explore the best time to visit South America for your vacation!

 

Rainbow Mountain, Peru

 

Summer

Summer in South America is from December to February. During this time, the continent enjoys warm temperatures, long days, and excellent conditions in the evenings for nighttime exploration. In the summer season, travelers and locals alike enjoy the coastal towns for their fantastic beaches, ideal for lounging and sunbathing, especially in Brazil! In addition to the great weather, some of the world’s largest festivals take place in South America during the summer, such as Carnival in Brazil. In major metropolises, events from outdoor concerts, boutique markets, and even parades are a regular occurrence.
For the more adventurous and nature-oriented, the sunnier weather and longer days make destinations like Patagonia an ideal time to see some of the world’s most incredible natural wonders. However, in the Andean regions, like Bolivia, Peru, and Ecuador, summer is often rainy, and the highlands are enjoying their wet season.

 

Carnaval, Rio de Janeiro

Autumn

Autumn in South America is from March to May. In general, this time of year results in fewer crowds, and the price of transportation and hotels can drop throughout the continent as the busy summer season nears an end. Travelers will find great deals on hotels and tours at this time, while genuinely getting to experience the cities and cultures of the continent in relative peace compared to the busy summer. In March, travelers can enjoy exploring the abundant marine life of the Peruvian Pacific, the volcanic islands in Brazil, the roaring waterfalls of Iguazu, and the incredible, untouched wildlife of the Galapagos.

 

Blue Footed Boobies,Galapagos

 

Winter

Unlike other world continents, winter is an exciting season in South America, as it offers pleasant weather to every traveler. For visitors craving warm weather, Brazil, Ecuador, and Colombia are ideal. All three countries have a consistent, more temperate climate year-round. For visitors who want to see Machu Picchu or the Andean regions of Ecuador, Bolivia, and Peru, these months perfectly align with their dry season. During this time, trails will reopen, and temperatures lower to a comfortable hiking level. Winter sports enthusiasts will find no shortage of adventure during South America’s summer season. In Argentina and Chile, ski resorts and snow-covered mountains offer some fantastic skiing, snowboarding, or cross-country experiences throughout the winter.

 

Machu Picchu

 

Spring

Spring is from September to November, and it is a fantastic time to visit South America. In general, spring marks the beginning of warmer weather throughout the continent. For example, in Buenos Aires, Argentina (the Paris of South America), travelers experience sunny, bright days and the beautiful bloom of Jacaranda trees that line its streets. In tropical climates, like Colombia and the Amazon Rainforest, the seasons have little impact on weather changes, operating on their wet (approximately December – May) and dry seasons (June – December). In addition to the warm and temperate weather conditions, travelers enjoy the added benefit of fewer crowds. It is during this time that European and North American families return to school and work after the northern hemisphere’s summer season, leaving South America even more enjoyable.

 

Coffee Triangle, Colombia

 

So to cut a long story short, you can actually travel to South America all year round! A lot depends on what you want to do on your vacation and there are certainly better times of the year for wildlife opportunities, festivals, beaches, and low seasons. Contact us here for more information about the best time of the year to travel in the country you are planning to visit and we can give you all the information you need!