Chaitén, Chile: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Chaitén, Chile? If you're planning to go to Chaitén, here is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Chaitén, Chile

Based on the climate and weather in Chaitén, Chile, the best time to go is January. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Chaitén, Chile

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Chaitén, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Chaitén, Chile by month

January

If you go to Chaitén in January, you will notice that it is chilly. Expect it to rain sometimes. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 50s F (mid 10s C). There is frost sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Chile has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chaitén. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and L. It's important that you find the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters currently available are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you see the Museo de Sitio, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

February for Chaitén dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost once in a while. It rains once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Chile has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chaitén. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and L. Ensure that you get the right kind. Many adapters on sale are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you see the Museo de Sitio, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

March in Chaitén is cool. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost regularly. It rains sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Chile has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chaitén. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and L. Ensure that you choose the correct type. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.

If you see the Museo de Sitio, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

If you are traveling to Chaitén in April, you will notice that it is cold. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 40s F (single digits C). There is frost about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Chile has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chaitén. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and L. Be sure to get the necessary type. Most adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

If you see the Museo de Sitio, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

May here can be brisk. Temperatures average in the low 40s F (single digits C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost about half of the time. It rains a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Chile has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chaitén. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and L. Take care to get the correct kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.

If you see the Museo de Sitio, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

If you are traveling to Chaitén in June, you will notice that it can be brisk. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 30s F (single digits C). There is frost about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Chile has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chaitén. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and L. Be sure to choose the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you see the Museo de Sitio, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

If you are traveling to Chaitén in July, you will notice that it is cold. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 30s F (single digits C). There is frost most days.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Chile has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chaitén. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and L. Take care to get the right kind. Most adapters currently available are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you see the Museo de Sitio, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

August can be very chilly. Temperatures average in the high 30s F (single digits C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost about two thirds of the time. It rains about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Chile has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chaitén. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and L. Be careful to get the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you see the Museo de Sitio, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

September in Chaitén can be very chilly. Temperatures average in the low 40s F (single digits C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost about half of the time. It rains about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Chile has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chaitén. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and L. Take care to choose the correct type. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

If you see the Museo de Sitio, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

Traveling to Chaitén in October, you will notice that it is pretty cool. Expect it to rain once in a while. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 40s F (single digits C). There is frost about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Chile has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chaitén. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and L. Make sure to find the necessary kind. Many adapters available are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you see the Museo de Sitio, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

November in this region is crisp. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost a bit less than half of the time. It rains once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Chile has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chaitén. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and L. Be careful to pick the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters on sale are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you see the Museo de Sitio, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

December in Chaitén is relatively cool. Temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost occasionally. It rains sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Chile has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chaitén. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and L. It's important that you choose the correct kind. Most adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you see the Museo de Sitio, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Chaitén, Chile

Chaitén, a small town in southern Chile, might not be the most well-known tourist destination in the country, but that doesn't mean it's not worth a visit. Located on the coast of the Pacific Ocean, in the Los Lagos Region, Chaitén offers something for everyone, from beautiful natural landscapes to cultural and historical sites. Here are some of the top tourist attractions to check out in Chaitén.

1. Parque Nacional Corcovado - This national park is one of the most pristine wilderness areas in Chile. With an area of over 600,000 hectares, it's home to an incredible array of flora and fauna, including pumas, huemul deer, and Chilean dolphins. Visitors can hike through the park on trails that wind through forests, across rivers, and up to mountaintops, offering spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.

2. Bay of Chaitén - The town of Chaitén is situated on the shores of this beautiful bay, which is framed by mountains and offers stunning sunsets. It's a great place for a stroll or a picnic, or you can take a boat tour to explore the bay and see wildlife like sea lions and penguins up close.

3. Volcán Chaitén - This active volcano erupted in 2008, causing widespread damage to the town of Chaitén and forcing residents to evacuate. Today, it's a popular hiking destination, with trails leading up to the crater and offering sweeping views of the surrounding countryside.

4. Museo de Chaitén - This small museum offers a fascinating look at the town's history, including its indigenous heritage and the impact of the 2008 eruption. Exhibits include artifacts, photos, and videos, offering insight into the culture and lifestyle of the local people.

5. Playa Santa Bárbara - This beautiful black sand beach is located just outside of Chaitén and is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. The waves here are often big and powerful, making it a great destination for experienced surfers.

6. Termas del Amarillo - These hot springs are located in a secluded valley surrounded by mountains, offering a natural oasis of relaxation and rejuvenation. The waters are rich in minerals and said to have healing properties, and there are several pools to choose from, ranging from hot to cool temperatures.

Whether you're a nature lover, history buff, or just looking for a beautiful place to unwind, Chaitén has something to offer. From exploring a national park to soaking in hot springs, this Chilean town is a must-visit for any traveler looking to discover the beauty and diversity of this incredible country.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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