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

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

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

Contents

When to go to Valparaíso, Chile

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

What to wear/what to pack for Valparaíso, Chile

Already know when you're traveling?

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

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

January

January for Valparaíso is balmy and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day.

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.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Valparaíso. 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 locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and L. Be careful to pick the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

If you go to the Museo Naval y Maritimo (Naval and Maritime Museum), wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

February for Valparaíso is balmy and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day.

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

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Valparaíso. 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
  • 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 sure to pick the correct type. Many adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to the Museo Naval y Maritimo (Naval and Maritime Museum), wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

If you vacation in Valparaíso during March, you might notice that it is mild and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 50s F (low 10s C).

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 things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Valparaíso. 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 more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and L. Be sure to choose the right type. The majority of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect 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.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to the Museo Naval y Maritimo (Naval and Maritime Museum), wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

If you visit Valparaíso during April, you might find that it is balmy and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (low 10s C).

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 added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Valparaíso. 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 neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and L. Take care to get the right type. A lot of adapters currently available are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.

If you go to the Museo Naval y Maritimo (Naval and Maritime Museum), wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

If you visit Valparaíso during May, you are likely to see that it can be chilly. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Valparaíso. 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.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and L. Make sure to find the correct type. Many adapters currently available are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

If you go to the Museo Naval y Maritimo (Naval and Maritime Museum), wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

Traveling to Valparaíso in June, you will notice that it is relatively cool and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C).

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 luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Valparaíso. 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 neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and L. It's important that you pick the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you go to the Museo Naval y Maritimo (Naval and Maritime Museum), wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

July for Valparaíso is relatively cool. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day. 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 Valparaíso. 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

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • 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 penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and L. Ensure that you pick the right type. A lot of adapters available online are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

If you go to the Museo Naval y Maritimo (Naval and Maritime Museum), wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

August in this region is relatively cool. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (mid 10s C) during the day. It rains occasionally.

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 luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Valparaíso. 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 more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

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. Save money with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and L. Be sure to get the right kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

If you go to the Museo Naval y Maritimo (Naval and Maritime Museum), wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

September in Valparaíso is crisp and dry with little rain. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 40s F (single digits C).

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 constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Valparaíso. 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 added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

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

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and L. Be careful to pick the right type. Many adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

If you go to the Museo Naval y Maritimo (Naval and Maritime Museum), wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

If you are traveling to Valparaíso in October, you will notice that it is crisp and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the 60s F (high 10s C).

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 constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Valparaíso. 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

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and L. Ensure that you choose the correct kind. Most adapters available are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • 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 go to the Museo Naval y Maritimo (Naval and Maritime Museum), wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

November for Valparaíso is balmy and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C) during the day.

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 additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Valparaíso. 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
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and L. Ensure that you get the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • 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 go to the Museo Naval y Maritimo (Naval and Maritime Museum), wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

Traveling to Valparaíso in December, you will notice that it is mild and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (low 20s C).

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 some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Valparaíso. 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 neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and L. Make sure to pick the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to the Museo Naval y Maritimo (Naval and Maritime Museum), wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Valparaíso, Chile

Valparaíso, a city located in the central coast of Chile, is a perfect destination for travelers who are looking for a unique and authentic experience. The city is famous for its colorful houses, stunning architecture, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Here are the top tourist attractions in Valparaíso, Chile.

1. Cerro Alegre and Cerro Concepción

Cerro Alegre and Cerro Concepción are two of the most popular hills in Valparaíso, which are known for their beautiful pastel-colored buildings, street art, and stunning views of the bay area. The hills are home to many cafes, restaurants, galleries, and boutiques that attract both locals and tourists.

2. La Sebastiana

La Sebastiana, a house-turned-museum, was once owned by the Chilean poet Pablo Neruda. It is located in Cerro Bellavista and features stunning views of Valparaiso Bay. Visitors can explore the home, which is filled with original artwork, personal belongings, and eccentric decor.

3. Art and Museums

Valparaíso is full of museums and galleries that are worth visiting. The Museum of Fine Arts, located in Plaza Echaurren, has a collection of Chilean and Latin American art. The Paseo Yugoslavo, located in Cerro Concepción, has a collection of sculptures created by national and international artists.

4. The Port of Valparaíso

The Port of Valparaíso is one of the city's most important landmarks. It has been the gateway to the Pacific Ocean and the rest of the world for centuries. When visiting the port, travelers can watch ships come and go, shop for souvenirs, and explore the various seafood restaurants that serve fresh catches of the day.

5. The Ascensores

The Ascensores, or elevators, are a series of funicular railways that were originally built to help residents navigate Valparaíso's steep hills. Today, many of these elevators are still in operation and provide a unique and fun way for travelers to explore the city. Some of the most popular ascensores include the Concepción and the Polanco.

6. Playa Ancha

Playa Ancha, located on the outskirts of Valparaíso, is the perfect destination for travelers who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The beach is known for its beautiful sunsets, relaxed atmosphere, and delicious seafood restaurants.

7. Cielo Abierto

Cielo Abierto is an outdoor art project that features over 20 murals created by national and international artists. The murals are located in the Cerro Bellavista neighborhood and are a must-see for anyone interested in street art.

In conclusion, Valparaíso is a city that is filled with history, culture, and stunning views. With its colorful houses, funicular railways, and stunning museums, it is no wonder that this charming city is considered one of Chile's top tourist destinations.

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.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Vista, California, United States of America, Coal Region, Pennsylvania, United States of America, Penedo, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Nanchang, China, Sterling Heights, Michigan, United States of America, Pacific City, Oregon, United States of America, Joal-Fadiouth, Senegal, Central West, New South Wales, Australia, Lisdoonvarna, Ireland, Trenton, Ontario, Canada, and Vaitheeswaran Koil, India.