If you are considering venturing into the remote wilderness of Patagonia but you are unsure of when to go, this quick guide will give you an insight into what each season offers.
Autumn (March – May)
The temperature drops (average high 17ᴼC / low 3ᴼC) but so do the number of visitors. The autumn leaves and their beautiful colours make Patagonia in autumn a delight for photographers and hikers alike. The contrasting colours light up the landscape as the mountains soar above. A pleasant surprise when visiting during this season is that the winds drop-back again making the temperature quite pleasant for hiking and other outdoor activities.
Winter (June – August)
Most of the hiking trails and main attractions are closed in winter so you may wish to avoid visiting during this time. However for photographers winter presents an opportunity for incredible images. The mountains and glaciers are covered in snow and the National Parks are often considered their most picturesque during this time. It is extremely cold (average high 15ᴼC / low 0ᴼC) so you will need to ensure you have the right clothing to keep you warm, the wind also adds an additional chill factor. The days are short with between 8 & 9 hours of daylight – plenty of time to enjoy the warmth and hospitality of the many excellent lodges.
Spring (September – November).
The temperature is cool (average high 17ᴼC / low 3ᴼC) but if you desire a more private experience and are prepared with suitable gear you will find springtime exceptional. You will be spoilt with colourful spring bloom and a greater possibility of spotting some of the more timid animals due to fewer visitors. The winds are often not as strong as they can be during other seasons and accommodation is priced to reflect the ‘shoulder’ season.
Summer (December – February).
Summer is the peak season when Patagonia has the highest number of visitors. Summer offers the warmest weather (average high 22ᴼC / low 5ᴼC) and long days (17 hours of daylight), it is a great time to get outdoors and enjoy the wilderness as well as the spectacular views. However as this is aptly called the ‘peak’ season you will find that you will be sharing the parks with many other visitors and be subject to peak season accommodation prices. Another element worth noting is that the wind is particularly strong during the summer months and can reach up to 120 kilometres per hour.
When planning your trip you can use this as a guide but please be aware that the weather fluctuates greatly from day to day so you may experience snow, rain, sleet, sun any day during any season and sometimes all in one day.