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Elqui Valley Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Elqui Valley.
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Climate overview of Elqui Valley
The Elqui Valley is one of the best places in the world to look at the stars. To see the most beautiful starry sky it is best to visit the valley around the new moon.
You can visit the valley and the surrounding area all year round. Yet you have higher temperatures in summer. We recommend visiting the Elqui Valley from December to March.
Elqui Valley Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Elqui Valley - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Elqui Valley
Visitors to Elqui Valley can expect significant temperature changes throughout the year. On average, daytime temperatures range from a pleasant 18°C (64°F) in January to a chilly 7°C (45°F) in July.
Nighttime temperatures range from 10°C (50°F) in January to -5°C (23°F) in July.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Elqui Valley
Elqui Valley typically sees modest rain/snowfall throughout the year, with an average annual precipitation of 407 mm (16 in). The amount of precipitation varies moderately throughout the year. The wettest month, June, sees around 47 mm (1.9 in) of snow/rainfall, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of snow/rain now and then. The driest month, April, still receives a respectable 24 mm (0.9 in) of rainfall. For more details, please visit our Elqui Valley Precipitation page.
The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow
The average number of days each month with precipitation
Sunshine Hours in Elqui Valley
In Elqui Valley, summer days are longer and more sunny, with daily sunshine hours peaking at 8.3 hours in January. As the darker season arrives, the brightness of the sun becomes less. May sees a soft sun for only 4.7 hours per average day.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Data from: La Serena, Chile (73 KM, 45 Miles).
Daily hours of sunshine
Data from: La Serena, Chile (73 KM, 45 Miles).
Humidity in Elqui Valley by Month
The city experiences its highest humidity in December, reaching 89%. In January, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 80%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Data from: La Serena, Chile (73 KM, 45 Miles).
Best Time to Visit Elqui Valley
For comfortable weather, consider visiting Elqui Valley in January, February, March, April and December. Conditions are usually least favourable in June, July and August.
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
Jan
very good
Feb
very good
Mar
very good
Apr
very good
May
mixed
Jun
cold
Jul
cold
Aug
cold
Sep
good
Oct
good
Nov
good
Dec
very good
- Best overall: January, February, March, April and December
- Warmest weather: January, February, March and December
- Most sunshine: January
- Seasonal pattern: A distinct dry season from August to May, with pleasant summers and cold winters
- Coldest conditions: July, with freezing nights around -5°C (23°F).
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Elqui Valley
What is the best time to visit Elqui Valley?
January, February, March, April and December typically offer the most optimal weather in Elqui Valley. In contrast, June, July and August tend to have less optimal conditions. Elqui Valley has a distinct dry season from August to May, with pleasant summers and cold winters.
What temperatures can I expect in Elqui Valley?
Daytime highs range from 7°C (45°F) in July to 18°C (64°F) in January. Nighttime lows range from -5°C (23°F) to 10°C (50°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does Elqui Valley get?
Annual rainfall is around 407 mm (16 in). June is the wettest month with 47 mm (1.9 in), while April is the driest with 24 mm (0.9 in). In the coldest months, precipitation may fall as snow/rain.
How sunny is Elqui Valley?
Elqui Valley receives around 2,204 hours of sunshine per year. January is the sunniest month with 250 hours, while May is the cloudiest with just 142 hours. Overall, Elqui Valley enjoys abundant sunshine.
Elqui Valley 3-Day Forecast
Elqui Valley on the map
Elqui Valley is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.
Popular in September
Where to go in September - average daytime high across popular destinations.
San Pedro de Atacama21°C (70°F) Hanga Roa
21°C (70°F) La Serena19°C (66°F) Santiago18°C (64°F) Viña del Mar16°C (61°F) Concón16°C (61°F) Valparaíso15°C (59°F) Pucón
13°C (55°F) Bucket list
Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.
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