One of the first questions we’re asked regarding travel to any particular place is, “When is the best time to travel there?” The short answer is that the best summer weather in Patagonia and Chile is during the U.S. winter, making December, January, February and March ideal times for travel. This means the best time to plan a trip to Patagonia is now, during August and September.
Whether you’re looking to stay in one of the world’s finest adventure lodges such as Explora Salto Chico or if you’re more into the idea of a multi-sport trip with camping, Patagonia’s crown jewel known as Torres del Paine National Park is in high demand during these months. Availability is already problematic during the holidays and is starting to fill up for January and February.
During these summer months, even though Patagonia sits at the very bottom of the South American continent, the climate is quite warm, dry and sunny. In Torres del Paine National Park in January, February, or March you can expect temperatures to be in the low to mid 60’s F, although the sun is particularly strong and many remark that it feels ten degrees warmer. In the Northern Patagonia up near Puerto Varas, Chiloé, Cochamo Valley, and Pucon, expect high 60’s and low 70’s. However, in either of these regions weather patterns are unpredictable and, as they say, you can find the four seasons in just one day so layerable clothing is always recommended. Another bonus during these months is very long hours of daylight.
These are also the summer months in Central Chile, so between November and March you can expect sunny days with daytime highs averaging in the high 80’s F. This makes a few days exploring Chile’s central coast and its exciting cities like Valparaiso along with boutique vineyards and charming winery properties the ideal cap to a Patagonia adventure. Not to mention you get to do it all while escaping the wintery conditions in North America and Europe!
Que disfruten la Aventura, Jordan
Jordan is a Co-Founder of Knowmad Adventures, a company dedicated to creating unique, private and custom trips in South America. He was recently honored by Travel & Leisure as the A-List Top Travel Specialist for Chile, Argentina, and Peru. “Travel brings me incredible experiences and challenges, highlighting the world’s natural beauty while connecting me with inspiring people. I am convinced that travel makes us better people, and better people make a better planet.” Read Jordan’s biography and more about the Knowmad team.
