Best Time to Visit Patagonia

Spring in Patagonia – October to November

Spring is the high season in Patagonia, as the region bursts into vibrant colors of wildflower blooms—a setting for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Hiking trails become more accessible, allowing adventurers to explore the stunning Torres del Paine and Los Glaciares National Parks. The season also sees the return of migratory birds, such as Andean condors and Magellanic penguins, for breeding and nesting. This is also the best time to go for whitewater rafting adventures in Patagonia, as rivers swell due to melted snow.

Avg. Temperature	2–15° C / 36–60° F
Rainfall	25–39 mm
Season	Spring
Is this a good time to visit Patagonia?	Yes, it is one of the best time of the year to visit Patagonia, as the landscape comes alive with a riot of wildflower hues and the remarkable return of migratory birds like Andean condors and Magellanic penguins.

Highlights:

• Enjoy moderate temperatures and explore the iconic Torres del Paine National Park trails with fewer tourists.
• Observe newborn wildlife, such as guanacos and pumas, in the region's protected areas.
• Take a trip to Los Glaciares National Park to witness the ice calving in Perito Moreno Glacier.
• Participate in the National Hops Festival held in El Bolsón, Argentina, for beer tasting and craft fairs, and the National Cherry Festival in Los Antiguos, Argentina, for artisan fairs and regional cuisine.

Travel tips:

• Pack clothing suitable for changing weather conditions. Bring layers that you can add or remove.
• Be ready for a few rain showers here and there, particularly in September and October.
• Wear waterproof footwear and clothes for your Patagonia trip.

Our in-depth monthly guide:
Patagonia in October
Patagonia in November

Summer in Patagonia – December to February 

The summer months of December to February mark the peak season in Patagonia, attracting travelers from all over the world. As the snow melts and temperatures rise, Patagonia during summer transforms into a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. From exploring the iconic granite peaks and turquoise lakes of Torres del Paine National Park to witnessing the majesty of the Perito Moreno Glacier up close, adventure awaits at every turn. The extended daylight hours allow plenty of time to explore the region. Cities like El Calafate and Ushuaia also offer outdoor plenty of excursions like boating and Patagonia glacier tours during this time. Just remember to book your trip in advance, as summer in Patagonia is the peak season.

Avg. Temperature	6–21° C / 43–70° F
Rainfall	22–32 mm
Season	Summer
Is this a good time to visit Patagonia?	Yes, it is one of the best times to visit Patagonia offering unparalleled opportunities to sail through the unspoiled fjords of Tierra del Fuego and visit penguin colonies on Martillo Island and Isla Magdalena.

Highlights:

• The famous Perito Moreno Glacier is more captivating with its calving activity during this time. Explore the stunning Glaciers National Park, including the Upsala Glacier and Spegazzini Glacier.
• The iconic national parks like Torres del Paine and Los Glaciares are more accessible, while trekking routes are also open.
• Summer is one of the best times to sail through the pristine fjords of Tierra del Fuego.
• Visit the penguin colonies on Martillo Island and Isla Magdalena for an up-close encounter.
  

Travel tips:

• Opt for breathable and lightweight clothing to stay comfortable during warm days, especially if you plan to engage in physical activities.
• Some attractions may be crowded during the summer months. So it is best to plan your visits to popular sites like Torres del Paine and Perito Moreno Glacier early in the day to avoid high visitor traffic.

Our in-depth monthly guide:
Patagonia in December
Patagonia in January
Patagonia in February

Fall in Patagonia – March to May 

Fall in Patagonia, between March and May, is for those travelers who wish to experience a more tranquil experience. Explore the breathtaking beauty of Torres del Paine and Los Glaciares National Parks, where hiking amidst the stunning fall foliage offers a truly magical experience. This is also one of the best times to visit Patagonia for wildlife spotting. Head to the charming town of El Chalten, which serves as the perfect base to witness the spectacular Fitz Roy mountain and its surrounding landscapes. As crowds are generally thinner during this season, travelers can relish a more tranquil and intimate experience in Patagonia during the fall season.

Avg. Temperature	2 – 14° C / 36–58° F
Rainfall	29–134 mm
Season	Fall
Is it a good time to visit Patagonia?	Yes, this is a good time to visit Patagonia as there are fewer crowds allowing you to fully embrace the breathtaking splendor of national treasures like Torres del Paine and Los Glaciares National Parks.

Our in-depth monthly guide:
Patagonia in March
Patagonia in April
Patagonia in May

Winter in Patagonia – June to September 

The winter months, from June to September, constitute the low season in Patagonia. While cold temperatures and snowfall may deter travelers from visiting the region, winter is one of the best times to plan a trip to Patagonia for winter sports and sightseeing. Embrace the thrill of skiing and snowboarding on pristine slopes in destinations like Cerro Catedral in Bariloche and Cerro Castor on your Ushuaia tour. Delight in the tranquility of frozen lakes and see how the wildlife survives Patagonia’s harsh winter. Spot penguins and orcas along the coastal areas like Punta Tombo and Peninsula Valdes.

Avg. Temperatures	30 – 46° F / -1 – 8° C
Rainfall	57.9 – 140.7 mm
Season	Winter
Is this a good time to visit Patagonia?	Maybe, skiing, and snowboarding enthusiasts will find this a prime time to experience Patagonia, with Bariloche providing an enticing mix of winter sports amid stunning frozen lakes.

Highlights: 

• Hit the slopes in popular winter destinations like Bariloche and Cerro Catedral for thrilling winter sports. Do not miss out on the National Ski Festival in Ushuaia.
• Take guided snowshoeing or trekking excursions in Tierra del Fuego, immersing yourself in the untouched beauty of Lapataia Bay's frozen landscapes.
• Enjoy the natural hot springs of Copahue and Caviahue, surrounded by snowy landscapes.
• Marvel at Southern Hemisphere constellations in El Chaltén's unpolluted skies.

Travel tips:

• Pack proper winter clothing, including warm insulated jackets, gloves, hats, and waterproof footwear suitable for snow.
• Winter weather can lead to travel disruptions, so plan for potential flight and road delays and allow extra time for transportation between destinations.
• Ski resorts are typically crowded during the winter months, so make sure to book accommodations and activities in advance.

Our in-depth monthly guide:
Patagonia in June
Patagonia in July
Patagonia in August
Patagonia in September

Patagonia is a wild and untamed beauty — a definite not-miss on your Chile tour or trip to Argentina. It’s a place that can be visited repeatedly and you would still never have the same experience twice. Nature enthusiasts, outdoor adventurers, photographers, day-trippers, and thrill seekers will all have their expectations met and exceeded in this wondrous region.

You can also include Patagonia in your customized trip to Argentina. Contact our travel expert for assistance.