The extreme heat in Chile has become a phenomenon that no longer surprises, but rather worries. The high temperatures recorded in different regions of the country are changing the way Chileans and tourists enjoy their vacations. This summer of 2026 promises to be one of the hottest of the last decade, with direct effects on tourism, the environment, and health.
According to the Chilean Meteorological Directorate, heat waves of up to 38°C are expected in the central part of the country, especially in the central valley and urban areas such as Santiago and Rancagua. This situation is prompting many families to change their traditional vacation plans.
How heat waves are changing holiday destinations
For years, destinations like the central coast or the south of the country have been favorites for escaping the heat. However, the intensity of the temperatures is changing those preferences.
More and more people are looking for places with moderate temperatures, natural shade, and access to fresh water. For example:
The high plateau and mountainous areas such as San Pedro de Atacama and Elqui offer cooler nights.
Southern Chile , especially in regions like Los Ríos and Aysén, is seeing an increase in hotel bookings.
National parks and nature reserves , with abundant vegetation and rivers, are positioned as natural refuges from the heat.
In contrast, the beaches in the north and center face challenges with higher temperatures and water scarcity, affecting both tourism and local communities.
Also check out our article on nature tourism and Chilean coasts for summer 2026 .
Effects of extreme heat on the health and well-being of vacationers
The sustained rise in temperature is not only changing travel plans, but also how people enjoy their vacations. The Ministry of Health has warned of an increase in cases of dehydration, heatstroke, and respiratory problems.
Some tips for enjoying summer safely:
Avoid direct sun exposure between 12:00 and 16:00.
Maintain constant hydration, especially in children and older adults.
Opt for lightweight clothing and light colors.
Opt for outdoor activities during the morning or evening.
This phenomenon has also fueled the rise of wellness tourism , with more people choosing quiet places with spas, thermal baths or green spaces, in search of physical and mental rest.
Environmental impact of extreme heat in tourist areas
Extreme heat has significant ecological consequences for tourist ecosystems. Lack of rainfall, forest fires, and water scarcity directly affect flora, fauna, and tourism services.
In areas like Araucanía and Maule, the increase in wildfires has forced the temporary closure of trails and nature reserves. This not only puts biodiversity at risk, but also the local economy based on tourism.
Therefore, more and more tourism businesses are committing to sustainability , implementing measures such as:
Reduction of water consumption.
Use of solar energy in accommodations.
Reforestation programs and environmental education for visitors.
Changes in the behavior of Chilean tourists
Heat waves not only alter the climate, they also change consumer behavior. Many tourists now seek shorter experiences, nighttime activities, or trips to less crowded places where the heat is bearable.
Among the new trends, the following stand out:
Short breaks to coastal areas during the week to avoid crowds.
High-altitude tourism in the foothills of the Andes.
Indoor panoramas , such as museums, cultural fairs or air-conditioned cafes.
This change in habits is also reflected in booking platforms: accommodations with air conditioning or access to rivers and lakes are experiencing record demand.
How Chilean cities are adapting to the heat
The phenomenon of extreme heat is not only affecting rural tourist destinations. Large cities are also adapting their infrastructure. Municipalities like Santiago and Valparaíso are implementing "green city" programs, with more trees, shaded spaces, and public water fountains.
Furthermore, the increase in temperature has led to a rethinking of summer activities: concerts, festivals and fairs now favor nighttime hours or indoor venues.
To learn how these events unfold, check out our article on cultural festivals and fairs in Chile 2026 .
If you're planning your vacation during extreme heat, consider these practical recommendations:
Plan ahead and check weather forecasts.
Prioritize accommodations with natural ventilation or eco-friendly cooling systems.
Avoid long journeys on hot days.
Explore alternative destinations : southern coastal towns, inland valleys, or lake regions.
Smart and sustainable tourism is becoming a necessity in the face of climate change, not just an option.