The 2026 meteor showers in Chile will be one of the most anticipated astronomical spectacles of the year. From the north, with its clear skies in the Atacama Desert, to Patagonia, there will be multiple opportunities to enjoy these natural phenomena that amaze both adults and children.
In this article, you'll find a meteor shower calendar, viewing tips, and the best places in Chile to experience them.
When to see meteor showers in Chile in 2026
During 2026, there will be more than ten meteor showers visible in Chile. Some of the most notable are:
| Meteor shower | Maximum date | Meteor shower rate per hour | Visibility in Chile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quadrantids | January 3-4 | 120 | Very good in the north |
| Lyrids | April 22 | 20 | Good throughout Chile |
| Eta Aquariids | May 6-7 | 50 | Excellent in the north |
| Delta Aquariids | July 30 | 25 | Favorable in the center and north |
| Perseids | August 12-13 | 100 | Average, better in the north |
| Draconids | October 8-9 | 10 | Limited, visible at the beginning of the night |
| Orionids | October 21-22 | 20 | Good throughout Chile |
| Leonidas | November 17-18 | 15 | Moderate, visible in clear skies |
| Geminids | December 13-14 | 120 | Very good throughout Chile |
| Ursids | December 22-23 | 10 | Low, visible in the northern hemisphere |
Source: CalendarioChile.com
Best places in Chile to observe meteor showers
Chile is a prime country for astronomical tourism. Its clear skies and low light pollution in certain areas make it an ideal destination. Some recommended spots include:
San Pedro de Atacama: one of the best skies in the world for astronomical observation.
Elqui Valley: the epicenter of astrotourism in Chile, with specialized observatories and tours.
Chilean Altiplano: with unique landscapes and clear skies most of the year.
Southern National Parks: Offer clear skies in areas far from cities.
Tips for enjoying meteor showers
To get the most out of your meteor shower viewing experience in Chile in 2026, consider the following:
Check the astronomical calendar to find the best date and time.
Find a place away from cities, without light pollution.
Bring a coat, water, and a blanket or a reclining chair to be comfortable.
Let your eyes adjust to the darkness for at least 20 minutes.
Avoid using flashlights or bright screens that disrupt visibility.
Astronomical tourism in Chile 2026
Astronomy tourism in Chile has grown significantly in recent years. Regions such as Coquimbo, Atacama, and Antofagasta offer observatories open to the public, night tours, and educational activities ideal for the whole family. Taking advantage of the meteor showers in 2026 will be an excellent excuse to explore these destinations.
On our site, you can find more articles related to astronomical phenomena, such as the 2025 Chile eclipse and meteor shower calendar , which will help you compare dates and plan your trips.