A jigsaw of dry desert, towering mountains, monstrous glaciers, dense forests, and vast lakes spread across the southern tip of Chile and Argentina, Patagonia is nature’s playground for adventurous spirits. The landscapes of this region are so breathtaking and the ecosystems so fragile that much of it has been protected as national parks. While Torres del Paines is known for its tower-like peaks and ice-blue lagoons, Los Glaciares is known for its impressively large glaciers, and Nahuel Huapi is known for its coniferous Alpine-style forests. Although each park offers a different Patagonian experience, they all promise exceptional outdoor adventures with unforgettable views.

Patagonia is best known for its unparalleled hiking opportunities like the epic ‘W Trek’ in Torres del Paines and the renowned ‘Laguna de Los Tres’ trek from El Chalten to Fitz Roy mountain peak in Los Glaciares. However, hiking is only one way of immersing in Patagonia’s immense beauty. While the super fit can go climbing, mountain biking, and rappelling, those who prefer to enjoy nature at a slower pace can spend their days cycling, kayaking, and horseback riding through the plains. However, you choose to spend your days exploring Patagonia, its luxury lodges, hotels, and estancias await to provide a luxurious place to rest your weary feet. A hearty Patagonian meal, a bit of pampering, and a spacious suite with undisturbed views of the surrounding landscape are a perfect remedy for rejuvenation. With the help of our Patagonia experts, who specialize in luxury Patagonia tours, you can tailor your dream adventure vacation by finding the activities and accommodations best suited to you.

As the southernmost region of Chile and Argentina, Patagonia receives extremely cold and snowy winters and very mild yet sunny summers. As a result, it’s considered a very seasonal destination. During winter, as Patagonia becomes buried in snow and temperatures rarely rise above freezing, many of its national parks go into hibernation. Things only open up again in late spring when enough snow has melted to reveal the mountain hiking trails. By summer, Patagonia’s tourist season is in full swing as keen hikers congregate at its iconic trails.

With up to 17 hours of daylight and temperatures up to 60 °F (16 °C), there’s no better time to see Patagonian nature in its full glory. However, that doesn’t mean it’s the best time to visit Patagonia overall. There’s something special about visiting in spring when many paths are freshly paved, the animals are reawakening, and everything still feels quiet. Then there is early autumn when crowds disperse and fall foliage appears in the foreground of Patagonia’s chiseled mountainscapes. So while summer may be the obvious choice to visit Patagonia, you’re sure to fall in love with it whether you go at the beginning, middle, or end of the open season.

Patagonia In January & February
Patagonia in March & April
Patagonia in May & June
Patagonia in July & August
Patagonia in September & October
Patagonia in November & December

Patagonia in January & February

Best Time to Visit Patagonia:

The year in Patagonia begins in the height of summer, the perfect time to visit this cold and mountainous region. The days in early January are up to 17 hours long and temperatures reach around 60 °F (16 °C) — optimal conditions for outdoor adventure. By this point, much of the snow and ice has melted, even from the highest mountain trails. This makes hiking conditions much, much better, although you can expect trails to be busier as a result. Since the southern parts of Patagonia go into hibernation during the winter due to adverse weather, those wishing to visit Tierra del Fuego should take the opportunity to do so now.

Patagonia in March & April

As the busy summer season begins to come to a close in March, hiking trails begin to feel less crowded and accommodation becomes cheaper (bar Easter week). By the end of April, Patagonia’s landscapes are transformed by fall foliage which only enhances its beauty. Although the days are getting noticeably colder and shorter at this time of year, there’s still enough daylight to cover serious ground when hiking or enjoying other outdoor adventures. Many Patagonians believe this is the best time to visit northern and central Patagonia. In southern Patagonia, however, many of the hotels and tours will have already closed for the season.

Patagonia in May & June

By May, winter has begun to set in and the days become noticeably shorter and colder with highs of 30 °F (-1 °C). As the wettest month of the year too, it usually only appeals to experienced adventurers looking for a more serious challenge. By June, many tours and hotels have closed for the winter, allowing visitors to enjoy a greater sense of solitude. But as hiking destinations like El Chalten wind down, things begin to wind up in Bariloche and Ushuaia as the exciting Patagonian ski season begins.

Patagonia in July & August

The height of winter hits Patagonia in July and August which see the shortest and coldest days of the year. By this point, nearly all Patagonia’s national parks have gone into hibernation as hiking becomes near impossible. Even the most experienced adventurers steer clear of the region during this time! However, it’s the perfect time to hit the powdery slopes of Bariloche and Ushuaia.

Patagonia in September & October

While it is still pretty cold in September and October, the snow that has blanketed the region over winter begins to melt and Patagonia’s hiking trails reappear along with signs of spring. As the wildflowers begin to bud, Patagonia’s hotels and tours begin running again, many of them offering tempting shoulder season deals! Although the days are still quite short and cold, especially in early September, you’ll reap all of Patagonia’s rewards with ease. Between the lower prices, gorgeous spring landscapes, and uncrowded trails, this is an excellent month to get your adventure on in Patagonia.

Patagonia in November & December

As summer brings longer days and warmer weather, we approach peak season in Patagonia. By late December, you can expect up to 17 hours of daylight and temperatures of around 60 °F (16 celsius), creating optimal conditions for hiking and other outdoor adventures. Although this means that trails are more crowded than usual, they are by no means over-crowded and the quality of your experience won’t be compromised. The only downfall to traveling at this time of year is the prices, but after witnessing the majesty of the Torres del Paine mountain peaks or the Perito Moreno glacier you’ll agree it’s worth every penny.

Since Patagonia is seasonal and parks, hotels, and tour operators close for business over the winter, there is a limited window for travel in the region. While the summer opens more opportunities for outdoor adventure, traveling to Patagonia in this period comes at a higher price. So, although there are fewer park areas open and tour operators running at the beginning and end of Patagonia season, you’ll benefit from better hotel and tour deals. The most important thing to bear in mind as you decide when to travel to Patagonia is that the weather is much fairer in northern Patagonian parks which mean they stay open longer than those in the south. To help you decide what parts of Patagonia to visit and when, you’ll need to consider these factors: