Tourism in Chile has historically been a driving force behind regional development. However, the effects of climate change are transforming travel patterns, preferred destinations, and how people experience nature. By 2026, this relationship between climate and tourism will be more evident than ever.
From rising temperatures in the north to changes in rainfall patterns in the south, climate change presents new challenges, but also opportunities for more sustainable and conscious tourism.
Climate changes that are already affecting Chilean tourism
Chile, with its long and varied geography, is one of the countries where climate change is felt most diversely. In the north, desertification is advancing; in the central region, prolonged droughts are becoming increasingly common; and in the south, humid ecosystems are being altered by changes in rainfall patterns.
Some direct impacts on tourism are:
Glacial retreat in the southern zone, affecting the natural appeal of parks such as Torres del Paine and Laguna San Rafael.
More intense heat waves are altering tourist seasons in areas such as the Elqui Valley and San Pedro de Atacama.
Increased risk of forest fires , especially in regions such as Valparaíso, Biobío and La Araucanía.
Alterations in flora and fauna that change the experiences of ecotourism and species observation.
These phenomena not only affect the availability of destinations, but also infrastructure, transportation, and visitors' perception of environmental safety.
Sustainable tourism as a response to climate change
Given this scenario, sustainable tourism emerges as the main strategy for addressing the effects of climate change. By 2026, both the public and private sectors are expected to strengthen environmental adaptation and mitigation policies.
Among the most relevant initiatives are:
Green certifications for accommodations that reduce the carbon footprint and promote the efficient use of energy.
Promotion of community ecotourism , where local communities offer experiences with low environmental impact.
Tourism education campaigns , promoted by SERNATUR, to encourage good practices among visitors.
Environmental regulation of tourist transport , especially in high-traffic areas such as San Pedro, Pucón and Puerto Varas.
The trend points to a change in mindset: moving from mass tourism to responsible tourism.
Areas of Chile most vulnerable to climate change
Certain tourist destinations will be more sensitive to the effects of climate change in 2026:
Northern Chile and Northern Chile
Rising temperatures and water scarcity will affect activities such as astrotourism and tours of oases and salt flats. However, technological innovation will allow for more sustainable experiences, such as self-sufficient accommodations and low-energy night tours.
Central Zone
Water stress will directly impact wine tourism and rural tourism, especially in the Casablanca and Colchagua Valleys. Wineries are already implementing efficient irrigation and reforestation strategies to maintain production and the tourist experience.
Southern and Austral Zone
Melting glaciers, changing rainfall patterns, and wildfires pose serious threats. But at the same time, a boom in scientific and educational tourism is expected, driven by the desire to understand and document these climate changes.
You can read more about how rural tourism is adapting to new conditions in this article about rural tourism in Chile .
New opportunities for Chilean tourism in 2026
Although climate change presents challenges, it also opens up opportunities to innovate in the tourism sector:
Expansion of mountain tourism over longer seasons thanks to increased temperatures.
Revaluation of coastal tourism in areas that maintain stable conditions, such as Coquimbo and Atacama.
Creation of scientific and climate tourism routes , where visitors can learn about ecosystems in transformation.
Growth in domestic tourism , driven by campaigns that promote nearby and low-impact destinations.
These transformations show that Chile can position itself as a benchmark for resilient tourism , capable of adapting to a changing planet.
How to prepare to travel responsibly in 2026
The role of the traveler will also be key. Conscious tourists can contribute to mitigating climate change by following simple but effective practices:
Choose accommodations certified as sustainable.
Use public transport or bicycles instead of private cars.
Avoid single-use plastics during your trip.
Participate in local activities with an ecological focus.
Offset the carbon footprint of flights.
These small collective actions can have a significant impact on the conservation of Chilean destinations.
Measures taken by the Chilean government to address the impact of climate change on tourism
The Ministry of the Environment, together with SERNATUR and CORFO, is working on projects to reduce the vulnerability of the tourism sector to climate change. The following projects are expected to be implemented by 2026:
Training programs for tourism entrepreneurs in sustainable management.
Funds to support the energy conversion of tourist establishments.
Climate risk studies by region to plan safe investments.
Educational campaigns aimed at national and international travelers.
These measures seek to maintain the competitiveness of Chilean tourism and protect its natural and cultural heritage.
You can review other environmental topics in the article Regulation of textile waste in Chile and its impact on fashion, culture and the environment .
Perspectives of Chilean tourism in the face of climate change
Despite the challenges, Chilean tourism has a unique opportunity in 2026 to demonstrate environmental leadership. Sustainable experiences, climate education, and destination diversification will be fundamental pillars for the future.
Chile, with its biodiversity and extreme geography, can become a natural laboratory for responsible tourism. But this will depend on the collective commitment of travelers, businesses, and authorities to protect the environment and adapt to changing times.