Santiago enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters, nestled in a valley between the Andes and the coastal range.
Nearly all rainfall occurs between May and August, meaning you'll need waterproof layers only during the winter months.
Summer temperatures regularly hit 30-35°C, while winter days hover around 10-15°C with occasional frosts at night.
The city experiences low humidity year-round, but persistent smog can settle in the valley during winter when temperature inversions trap pollutants.
The intense high-altitude sun burns skin year-round despite the temperature, making sunscreen as essential as your metro card.