Top 5 Destinations For Winter in South America

Last updated on March 24th, 2021 at 10:31 am

Top 5  Destinations for Winter in South America

Have you thought about a Summer vacation during the South American winter! The season when all those low-heel booties are traded for sandals and flannels are exchanged for breezy maxi dresses, however, down south, the weather is starting to resemble the temperatures of the winter season. You may ask yourself, why would I tour South America during their winter months? Is there such a thing as fun in the sun, during that time?  In fact, there are destinations where more crowds visit during Winter in South America like the Andean mountains in Peru and Bolivia. Also, there are some other countries with lower prices, fewer crowds, and better deals in accommodations! You can customize and combine different destinations and have a unique, unforgettable vacation! Read below for my Top 5 Destinations for Winter in South America:

1. Machu Picchu, Peru

Ironically, “winter” is the driest time to visit the Andean Mountains and for that reason, winter is the best time to visit Peru especially for hikers. During this season you can expect clear skies and sunny days, although the nights are usually cold. … This is the perfect time to visit Machu Picchu, a city embedded in the middle of mountains flooded with vegetation. From June to August, you are most likely to get a blue clear sky and nice comfortable weather. Also if you are planning to hike in the Andean mountains, there is no better time than South American Winter.

Insider Tip: Spend some time wandering the local markets of the Sacred Valley. Venture into quaint towns, such as Ollantaytambo, where some additional Incan archaeological sites are located. You will find that most trains from Cusco to Machu Picchu stop in town, making the trip quite convenient.

2. Santiago Tours in Winter, Chile

Are you the type of person that spends their weeks in the city and packs their snowboard gear for a weekend away in the mountains? Me too. Believe it or not, during the months of June – September, you can still find some fresh pow in South America! For both city and serenity, visit the snow-covered mountains of Chile, not far from Santiago. Santiago is where most skiers and boarders choose to stay, packing up their gear to hit the slopes at one of the many ski resorts nearby.

Insider Tip: Make sure to fuel your body for those big ski days by consuming plenty of protein-rich seafood that can be found in the city. I’m sure you can meet some locals or restaurant chefs that enjoy eating and cooking up that tasty fresh fish that you can’t find anywhere else!

3.  Lake Titicaca, Peru

Have you ever seen the Milky Way? Because it’s as beautiful as everyone says it is, and during the off-season in Lake Titicaca, you have more of a chance of seeing this spectacular site! During the day, hike the rolling hills, explore the local markets and handicrafts, and float on the blue water in traditional reed boats. At night, visit “the birthplace of the sun” (during the Winter month’s May – September), where you’ll have a fabulous opportunity to see the bright stars fill up the night sky!

Insider Tip: Combine your trip to Lake Titicaca with a trip to the metropolitan city of La Paz. La Paz is the highest administrative capital in the world. Take a cable car ride over the city for panoramic views of the Andes mountain range and city lights below.

4. The Galapagos Islands

Winter in South America is not that wintery as you move to North. The Galapagos Islands are a once-in-a-lifetime experience and, thankfully, can be visited at any time of the year. You can see the average temperatures here. Embark on an exciting adventure to the stretch of islands that inspired Darwin’s research. Seamlessly combine visits to all of the islands on a Luxury Galapagos Cruise, where you can experience the unique flora, fauna, and wildlife straight from the comfort of the ship. The Petrel Luxury Catamaran is a fantastic option for travelers looking to explore the terrain of the Galapagos during the day, and relax in the elegance of a private cabin at night.

Insider Tip: Hit the beach! South America crosses the equator, creating balmy weather year-round. Visit Bahía Tortuga Beach, which offers guests the chance to get close to marine turtles, with baby turtles that hatch in June and July. To extend your trip, choose an additional beach locale like the exotic Guayaquil, by staying in one of the surrounding resorts or city hotels.

5. Argentine Patagonia

Argentine Patagonia is another excellent place to continue snowsports year-round! Winter in South America can be experienced to the best in Patagonia. Come close to the “End of the World,” as you reach the regions untouched nature, well-kept around the various resorts and ski centers. Though I’ve talked about Chile’s frosty landscape above, Argentina is another great destination to sport your puffy jackets and colorful beanies. With places like Bariloche, Ushuaia, and Tierra del Fuego, any skier, snowboarder, or snowshoer will not be disappointed. Summer in South America surely will not disappoint.

Insider Tip: Indulge with delicious, locally produced artisanal chocolates and beers in the Argentine Patagonia Lake District, especially in Bariloche. Bariloche borders Nahuel Huapi and is best-known for its Swiss alpine architecture. Stroll along the streets of this charming resort town, hike or ski in the nearby mountains, or boat across the Lake District.

Are you ready for a wintery-summer vacay?! Contact us today and we can help you plan your best summer vacation yet!