Let’s Patagonia

There is no wrong time to visit Patagonia, though you will have a lot more access to the trails and activities if you visit during the summer months. The highest season is between December and March, though November and April are lovely months as well. Just keep in mind that dependent on the year, November and April can be somewhat risky because of snow closing some of the trails, though the spring and the autumn are beautiful.

If visiting in the winter, prepare for a different experience. In Argentina’s Bariloche, it’s the perfect time to go skiing. In the rest of Patagonia, though, plan on sleepier towns, fewer open activities, and limited options for things to do.

Weather-wise, when it comes to Patagonia, the best thing to do is prepare for anything. The region is known for incredibly strong winds, sometimes reaching over 100 km/h, and storms that can materialize out of nowhere and disappear just as quickly. While it can be warm, don’t expect hot summer weather that you might encounter closer to the equator. When it comes to dressing for the weather in Patagonia, plan on wearing things that are waterproof, including your hiking boots, and prepare for the possibility of freezing temperatures.

The vast wilderness region shared between southern Chile and Argentina is an adventure lovers’ paradise. Wide open plains as far as the eye can, glacial lakes and glaciers to climb, epic landscapes, majestic mountains, and amazing wildlife everywhere. If you adventure traveler, you could easily spend the rest of your life exploring Patagonia and never see the same place twice. Make sure you go at least once in your life! 

My must-know parting tips: 

• Many restaurants in Patagonia still do not accept credit cards so be prepared with some cash in hand. 
• Service is usually very slow and laid-back so if you are used to the ‘service with a smile’ in North America, be prepared to adjust. 
• If you are used to an early dinner after a long day out on the trail then you may need to back a few extra empanadas for the road. Typically in Argentina and Chile, restaurants will open for dinner service between 8pm and 1am.  

Platos típicos (typical dishes)

Cordero patagónico – Carnivores rejoice! Arguably the best lamb you have ever eaten was cooked on an iron cross over hot coals in Argentine Patagonia. 

Hongos del bosque – Forest mushrooms are usually harvested and dried. You will find them in sauces or as an accompanying side dishes to your fish and lamb all year round. 

Trucha patagónica – An absolute must-try! The trout in Southern Patagonia is, I think, one of the best known pleasures of Patagonia beyond the traditional lamb. 

Chupe de Centolla – Not a red meat eater? There are still plenty of seafood options to discover! Patagonian King Crab , ‘Chupe’, is a traditional Chilean dish in which seafood is cooked in a stew with breadcrumbs baked on top leaving a thick, creamy chowder beneath.

Cervezas Artesanales – Craft beers are everywhere in the Americas, and Patagonia is no exception. Where is the best place to find them, you ask? Stop in at any of the many refugios along your hiking trails to experience the best of the best.