When to Go

Chiloé is increasingly a year-round destination, but like the rest of southern Chile, the ideal time to go is during the summer months, from December to March. Summer is sunnier and the prime time for cultural festivals all over the island. Although Chiloé is known to be rainy—some parts receive more than 150 inches annually—periods of sunshine regularly break the spells. Year-round, however, mist and fog prevail and deepen the mystery of the islands, while the crisp, breezy air is refreshing.

Festivals and Events

Like elsewhere in southern Chile, most of Chiloé's festivals take place in summer. Fiestas Costumbristas, which celebrate Chilote customs and folklore, take place over several weekends between December and February in Ancud, Castro, and other towns. There are still other special events, such as a biodiversity fair in Castro the third week of February and a small open-air film festival in Ancud during the first few days of February.