The region of Patagonia, shared by Argentina and Chile, is an explorer’s dream. With miles of stunning mountain ranges, lakes, fjords, and glaciers, it’s easy to understand how this place has become a bucket list spot for the adventure lovers out there. Many people flock to this South American paradise during the summer months, but what about the winter? Patagonia is a wintery diamond in the rough, filled with allure, adventure, and wonder. Don’t believe me? Keep reading to know 10 reasons why Patagonia should be your next winter travel destination!
1. It’s Quiet - During the winter months in Patagonia, the tourist numbers tend to dwindle. Even some of the most popular parks, like Torres del Paine, are quiet. This gives the world’s more intrepid travellers the chance to experience this stunning region all on their own. They can be far away from the crowds, and truly immerse themselves in the landscapes of Patagonia.
2. You Can Go Skiing - On both the Chilean and Argentinian sides of Patagonia, there is once-in-a-lifetime skiing in Patagonia. Although it can get quite expensive, it’s SO worth it! The powder is great and the views are even better. Some ski resorts you can make a pit stop at including Catedral Alta Patagonia (Argentina), Corralco (Chile), Chapelco (Argentina), and many more. For a full list of ski resorts in the Patagonian region, click here!
3. There’s Rare Wildlife Viewing - With less tourists around, the wildlife of Patagonia like to come out of their hiding places. Winter travellers to this region can have rare opportunities to view the local wildlife. You might see pumas, king penguins, foxes, or the impressive condor flying overhead! With all the chances to view these species in their natural habitat, we ask all visitors to keep themselves at a distance from the wildlife, and only to take pictures. These animals are wild, and staying at a distance will keep both you and them safe.
4. Better Weather Conditions - Most people tend to think that the winter would have harsher weather conditions, but in Patagonia it is actually the opposite! Although the days are shorter, if you visit this region in the winter months instead of the summer, there will be less gale force winds, more sunshine, and less clouds!
5. You Can Visit El Chaten, Argentina - This small Argentinian town sits right along the border with Chile, and it has ALL the hippie vibes. This spot is a culturally unique experience you have to visit if you’re in Patagonia! It’s close to some of the best spots for kayaking, hiking, and horseback riding. We suggest booking a hotel ahead of time if you want to stay in the town overnight, as many accommodations close for the winter months.
6. You Can Explore Patagonia on Horseback - Imagine trekking through the snowy glacier trails on horseback. Sounds pretty amazing right? Well in Patagonia during the winter time, this dream becomes a reality! Many local tour companies offer horseback trail riding tours year-round, and during the winter months the snowy landscape adds an extra sense of magic to the experience (click here for a list of horseback riding tour companies).
7. You Can Hike the Dientes de Navarino Circuit - This hiking route is a 5-day trek. It’s as remote and off-the-grid as it can get, but it is so worth it! You’ll see some of the most stunning views, reconnect with nature, and have some amazing photos to return home with. This hike can get quite challenging, so we do not recommend this route for beginners. If you need help packing for this hike, or any others you wish to do, check out our Packing Guide for Patagonia!
8. You Can Visit Ushuaia, Argentina - This is the southernmost city in the world, and it does not disappoint! Perched on a hill at the bottom of the continent, Ushuaia is home to tons of winter sports like skating, skiing, snowshoeing, and dog sledding! Ushuaia is also known as the “Gateway to Antarctica”, and is just a hop, skip, and a jump from the southernmost continent in the world, if you’re feeling extra adventurous!
9. Value for Your Money - The winter is low-season for tourists in Patagonia, but for those who travel here, you’ll get a bang for your buck! Many businesses offer special deals or lower prices during this time of the year. This allows visitors to stretch out their dollar, get add-on excursions, or even stay longer without blowing the budget.
10. You Can Try a Pisco Sour - Chile’s national drink, the pisco sour, delivers a funky South American drinking experience. This fizzy, sweet, yet tangy drink may be available around the world, but there’s nothing like having it served to you by a local Chilean bartender, who takes great pride in serving their customers this fun drink!
Have we given you enough reasons why Patagonia is the ultimate winter destination for adventure lovers? We certainly think so! If Patagonia is calling your name, Acanela Expeditions offer year-round departures to this intrepid South American paradise. An excursion with Acanela could include Torres del Paine National Park, staying in sustainable accommodations, hiking Patagonian backcountry, and reconnecting with nature while taking in this stunning landscape! Email expeditions@acanela.com to learn more!