Best Time to Visit Patagonia
The windswept steppes of Patagonia feature some of the most stunning vistas in all of Argentina and Chile, but during the summer (from late November to early March) is the ideal time to visit this enchanting region. Since it is in a remote corner of the world, even the high season does not imply heavy tourist traffic.
While strong gales characterize this area year-round, they are typically more powerful during the summer months, and temperatures in the normally chilly Tierra del Fuego and Torres del Paine National Park in southern Patagonia can get as high as a balmy 52ºF (11ºC). Additionally, hiking trails are more accessible during this time of the year. Though not as strong as the summer winds, there are still gusts consistently throughout the winter.
Autumn (late March-April) and spring (October-November), considered the shoulder seasons, are fair alternatives to the summer months, with generally less wind but cooler temperatures than the summer months.
DO NOT GO between June and August, during the southern winter. Many of the main attractions are closed or inaccessible, and the weather is fairly miserable, with bitter temperatures. Some say this is a particularly picturesque time to visit, but the severe weather and closure of major trails, especially in Torres del Paine, make it a bad time to visit.
Patagonia’s weather is unpredictable
The only thing predictable about Patagonia’s daily weather is that it is unpredictable – storms could pop up quickly and weather patterns also tend to change quickly, so you should always be prepared with adequate layers.
Dress for the wind & chill
No matter when you decide to go, layers and a good windbreaker are essential for an enjoyable experience in Patagonia.
Summer
January
Best time to visit: Warm temperatures & high winds.
February
Best time to visit: Warm temperatures & high winds.
Autumn
March
Good alternative: Shoulder season, lower winds, chillier temperatures, lower prices
April
Good alternative: Shoulder season, lower winds, dropping temperatures, lower prices
Winter
May
Okay for scenery & skiing; Otherwise not a great time to visit.
June
Not ideal: Many trails & parks (including Isla Magdalena & Torres del Paine) are closed or inaccessible due to extreme weather; blue skies, lower winds, bitter cold, impassable conditions.
July
August
September
Spring
October
Good alternative: Shoulder season, lower winds, chillier temperatures, lower prices
November
Good alternative: Shoulder season, lower winds, rising temperatures, lower prices
Summer
December
Best time to visit: Warm temperatures & high winds.
Cheska is a great asset for your company she is very knowledgeable and pleasant to work with
Susan Johnson
5 days ago
Adventure Life set us up with great guides and locations, seamless transportation, and good advice. Will work with them again. Thanks
Scott Sepsy
1 week ago
Amazing trip and the best customer service
Liz
1 week ago
Hannah and Nur got the gist of what we wanted our trip to be. They got us in hotels that were located centrally to historic tours. Tours and excursions that were significant, enriching and enjoyable. We had drivers that were on time/reliable. We got from location to location with ease. I would never have been able to plan this myself. I would not have known enough to ask for what we needed. This was above and beyond what I expected. Well done!
Kelly Mattingly
1 week ago
This is at least the fifth trip we have booked with AdventureLife. Jess has always had excellent ideas.