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Map of the ISA office and the Pontifical Catholic University of Valparaiso in respect to Plaza Victoria.

Valparaíso and Viña del Mar are located in central Chile, halfway down the Pacific coast. The region acts as a meeting point between the foothills of the Andes mountains and the sparkling waters of the Pacific Ocean. With a total population of 564,000 these sister cities are full of life and culture.

Time Zones:
*From October to April the time zone is 2 hours later than Eastern Standard time.
*For the rest of the year the time zone is the same as Eastern Standard time.

Chile's climate makes a steady transition between the extreme arid heat of the desert north to the bitterly cold and wet conditions of the far south. The central region is generally mild and temperate, especially on the coast, where temperatures range from 40°F to 70°F. Remember that the seasons are backwards from what you are used to in the United States! July and August are the coldest months, while the warmest months are from November to February. The rainiest months are from late April to early October. The rest of the year (October to April) is quite comfortable when the days are almost always beautiful, although January can be quite hot. Layering clothing is crucial, as temperature can vary greatly, even over the course of one day. For example, sunny winter days can heat up somewhat in the afternoons, and hot summer days can be rather cool at night.

Houses/apartments in Chile have space heaters instead of central heating, so pack accordingly! Keep in mind that winters (May through August) are quite cold, so be sure to bring a jacket and warm clothes. You should be prepared for just about everything, especially if you plan to travel to the extreme northern or southern parts of the country or to places of high altitude.

**Average monthly highs and lows (degrees Fahrenheit) and rainfall (inches) in Valparaiso and Viña del Mar**