Chile in April

April weather, activities, events & insider tips

April Weather in Chile

24°C (75°F) High Temp

8°C (46°F) Low Temp

0.0 mm (0.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is April Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect harvest season weather with cool mornings (8°C/46°F) ideal for wine country visits and warm afternoons (24°C/75°F) perfect for outdoor activities
Shoulder season pricing saves 30-40% on accommodations compared to peak summer months while weather remains excellent
Crystal clear mountain air with minimal rainfall (0.0mm) makes this the best month for Andean photography and stargazing in the city
Autumn foliage transforms central valleys into stunning landscapes, particularly around the city and wine regions, with fewer crowds than summer

Considerations

Significant temperature swings between morning (8°C/46°F) and afternoon (24°C/75°F) require careful layering and packing strategy
the city enters shoulder season with unpredictable weather and some lodge closures, limiting southern Chile options
Morning fog in coastal areas like the city can disrupt early flights and outdoor photography until 11am

Best Activities in April

Atacama Desert Stargazing Tours

April offers the clearest skies of the year with zero rainfall and cool evening temperatures (8°C/46°F) perfect for astronomical observation. The high UV index (8) during day means incredible clarity at night. This is when world-class observatories offer their best viewing conditions.

Booking Tip: Reserve 14-21 days ahead as this is peak stargazing season. Tours typically cost $80-120 USD per person. Look for operators offering high-altitude sites above 2,400m (7,874 ft). Check current astronomical calendar options in booking section below.

Wine Harvest Tours

April is harvest season (vendimia) in Chilean wine country. Cool mornings are perfect for grape picking while warm afternoons (24°C/75°F) create ideal fermentation conditions. You'll witness actual wine production, not just tastings, with golden autumn foliage as backdrop.

Booking Tip: Book harvest tours 10-14 days ahead as this is the only month for authentic harvest experiences. Expect to pay $60-100 USD for full-day experiences including lunch. Seek operators offering hands-on picking and crushing activities.

Andean Hot Springs Circuit

Cool April temperatures (8°C/46°F mornings) make natural hot springs incredibly appealing while clear skies provide stunning mountain views. The temperature contrast creates the most therapeutic and enjoyable soaking experience of the year.

Booking Tip: Day trips typically cost $45-70 USD. Multi-day circuits run $150-250 USD. Book 7-10 days ahead as this is prime hot springs weather. Look for operators including transportation from the city or Mendoza.

Central Valley Hiking Circuits

Perfect hiking weather with cool starts preventing overheating and warm afternoons extending daylight activities. April's stable weather (0.0mm rainfall) means reliable trail conditions and exceptional Andean visibility for photography.

Booking Tip: Multi-day treks cost $200-400 USD. Day hikes run $40-80 USD including transport. Book 14 days ahead for popular routes. Ensure operators provide early morning starts (7am) to maximize cool weather hiking.

Patagonia Photography Tours

April's variable conditions create dramatic lighting for photography with autumn colors at lower elevations. While southern the city enters shoulder season, northern areas like Torres del Paine still offer excellent weather windows.

Booking Tip: Photography tours cost $300-600 USD for 3-5 days. Book 21-30 days ahead as this is last month of reliable the city weather. Seek operators specializing in autumn landscape photography with flexible itineraries.

Pacific Coast Surfing Expeditions

April brings consistent swells with comfortable water temperatures and fewer crowds than summer. Morning fog clears by 11am revealing perfect afternoon surfing conditions with warm air temperatures (24°C/75°F).

Booking Tip: Surf lessons cost $35-55 USD. Multi-day packages run $150-300 USD. Book 7 days ahead. Look for operators offering afternoon sessions (post-11am) when fog lifts and conditions optimize.

April Events & Festivals

Early to Mid April

Vendimia Harvest Festivals

Traditional wine harvest celebrations throughout central valleys featuring grape stomping, live music, and authentic Chilean cuisine. Each winery hosts different weekend events with local families participating in centuries-old traditions.

Early April

Festival de la Canción de Viña del Mar Aftermath Events

Post-festival cultural activities and reduced-price concerts continue into early April, offering access to venues and artists without peak season crowds and pricing.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Merino wool base layers for temperature regulation - you'll experience 16°C (29°F) daily swings from 8°C to 24°C

High-SPF sunscreen (50+) essential for UV index 8, especially critical at altitude in wine country and Andes

Packable down jacket for early morning activities and mountain excursions where temperatures drop significantly

Moisture-wicking hiking pants - not cotton - for variable conditions and 70% humidity levels

Wide-brimmed hat for afternoon sun protection during wine tours and desert excursions

Lightweight rain shell despite low rainfall - morning fog creates dampness that burns off by midday

Sturdy hiking boots rated for rocky terrain if visiting Andean regions above 1,500m (4,921 ft)

Polarized sunglasses absolutely critical for high-altitude activities and wine country driving

Insulated water bottle to keep drinks cool during warm afternoons and prevent freezing in cool mornings

Quick-dry clothing for hot springs visits - you'll want multiple temperature-appropriate layers

Insider Knowledge

Book accommodations in wine regions for weekdays only - Chilean families flood vineyards on weekends during harvest season, tripling prices and crowds

Start outdoor activities at 7am to maximize cool weather comfort, then take midday breaks from 1-3pm when UV peaks

In the city, use the metro extensively during April - this is when locals return from summer holidays and the system runs most efficiently

April is when Chilean restaurants feature special harvest menus - ask for 'menu de vendimia' at traditional establishments for seasonal specialties unavailable other months

Avoid These Mistakes

Packing only for warm weather and freezing during early morning wine tours or mountain excursions - temperature swings are extreme

Booking the city activities assuming summer weather continues - many southern services reduce operations significantly in April

Scheduling outdoor photography for midday instead of golden hour periods which are extended and spectacular in April's variable conditions