The climates of Peru, Chile, Argentina, and Brazil vary significantly due to their diverse geography, ranging from coastal deserts and high mountains to tropical rainforests and temperate plains. Peru and Chile both feature regions with dry, desert-like conditions along the coast and cooler, wetter weather in the Andes. Argentina’s climate spans from subtropical in the north to cold and windy in the south. Brazil is mostly tropical, with hot, humid weather in the Amazon and milder conditions in the south.
In Peru, coastal areas like Lima are generally mild and dry, with temperatures between 18°C and 28°C (64°F to 82°F) throughout much of the year. The highlands, including Cusco and Machu Picchu, experience cooler temperatures ranging from 5°C to 20°C (41°F to 68°F), especially at night. The weather can be very unpredictable, so it’s important to pack warm clothing and dress in layers. A typical outfit might include a light t-shirt paired with a sweater that can be easily removed, as temperatures can shift rapidly, changing from hot to very cold, with rain in between - all within a single hour. Dry season (May to September) is ideal for trekking, while the wet season (October to April) brings frequent rain. Lightweight layers for the day and warmer clothing for the evenings are recommended.
Chile’s climate varies widely, with the Atacama Desert in the north among the driest places on Earth. Central Chile, including Santiago, enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers from December to February and mild, rainy winters from June to August. Southern Chile is cooler and wetter year-round. In central regions, light, breathable clothing suits the summer, while warmer layers and waterproof items are needed in winter and in the south.
Argentina’s northern regions are hot and humid in summer (December to February), with temperatures often above 30°C (86°F). The central Pampas and Buenos Aires have warm summers and cool winters, where temperatures range from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F). Patagonia in the south is much cooler and windier, with summer highs around 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F) and cold winters. Layering is essential across Argentina to adapt to rapid weather changes.
Brazil’s climate is mostly tropical and humid, especially in the Amazon and coastal regions, where temperatures frequently range between 25°C and 35°C (77°F to 95°F) with high humidity. The south experiences more defined seasons, with cooler winters between June and August, when temperatures can drop to 10°C (50°F) in some areas. Lightweight, breathable clothing is essential year-round, with rainwear advisable during the wet season from December to March.
Final Tips
Comfortable footwear is essential for walking and hiking.
