Patagonia features high on many people’s bucket lists – and with good reason. Its breathtaking views and unique wildlife are something else but the exhilarating rush of climbing its peaks is life-changing. While most travellers visit this region in the summer, here’s why autumn (March-May) is the best season to visit this incredible part of the world. 

Views 

Patagonia is jaw-droppingly beautiful all year round. Its rocky snow-capped mountain peaks shape the skyline; freshwater streams and rivers trickle and roar down the mountainside; wild forests fill northern Patagonia while glaciers dominate the south. Yet those fiery autumnal colours on the trees take the views to another level. The bright oranges, reds and yellows contrast the grey rock of the Patagonia peaks and (metaphorically speaking) set this uninterrupted landscape ablaze in the autumn. The scattering of green that remains and the blues of the sky and lakes – this is the kind of natural beauty that stirs your soul. 

If that’s not enough, catching the sun rising over Patagonia is the perfect way to wake up to the most beautiful part of the world. But we know you’re on holiday and don’t want to wake up unreasonably early. Another perk of travelling in the autumn is that the sun rises later! 

You can catch it between 7am at the beginning of March and 8:30am by the end of April. Best of all? You’ll have plenty of time (and energy) to hike afterwards.

Authentic wilderness

Besides the views, if you want to experience the true Patagonia wilderness with uninterrupted views of the scenery and sounds of nature, autumn is when you should visit. Patagonia’s remoteness means that it is never overly crowded, but groups can gather at the most popular sights. But if you’re wanting to escape from the busy modern world or get the perfect photo, we recommend visiting in autumn. There are far fewer people on the trails or at hotspots like the Torres del Paine, meaning that you can take in the full view only with those you want to share it with.

The reduced crowds also mean that you’ll have more chance of spotting the wildlife. While pumas and other wild animals hide from the many trekkers in the summer months, they come out in autumn when there are fewer people around, so keep your cameras ready!

Finally – and this one is important – you will also find more choice and availability of accommodation. Places to stay (hotels, hostels, and refuges) fill up quickly in the summer season. By coming in autumn, you don’t need to compromise on style or budget. Instead, you can find the perfect place for you to rest.

Weather

Patagonia is an extreme part of the world with unpredictable weather all year round. However, autumn (and spring) offer moderate conditions for visitors. Yes, temperatures are definitely colder outside of the main season (average lows of 37-42oF / 3-6oC and average highs of 51-58oF/11-14oC) but with a couple of extra layers of clothing, you won’t regret it. Without the notorious summer winds, activities like trekking and kayaking are more possible and easier and even more enjoyable. To top it off, the reduced wind lets the mountains be reflected in the lakes for those picture-perfect landscapes. 

So, will we see you in the autumn? Talk to one of our advisers today to book your Patagonian trip of a lifetime!