Patagonia in July: Travel Tips for Winter
If you are fond of skiing, an outdoor enthusiast, or an adrenaline junkie, then you should definitely travel to Patagonia in July. From Bariloche and Araucania to exploration of the Lake District in Argentina, you will find a lot of ski resorts to choose from during this time of the year. July falls in the middle of the winter in Patagonia, so compared to other seasons, you will also find fewer tourist crowds around. But expect mountain ski resorts to be crowded with skiers and snowboarders, particularly with Chilean and Argentinian families on winter vacations.
- Salvatore T.
Patagonia Weather in July
The weather in Patagonia in July is not attractive for everyone. July is the wettest and coldest month here and the temperatures can fluctuate quite a lot depending on where you are visiting. Typically, Patagonia’s temperatures in July can range from -2 °C to 3 °C. Southern towns like El Calafate and Ushuaia can be slightly warmer at 4 °C. While snow sports like skiing and snowboarding are the best reasons to visit Patagonia in July, other outdoor activities may be restricted due to shorter daylight hours and adverse weather.
For a more seasonal overview, check out our guide on the best time to visit Patagonia.
| Torres del Paine | Ushuaia | El Calafate | El Chalten | |
| Avg. high | 6°C | 3°C | 7°C | 9°C |
| Avg. low | -3°C | -6°C | -1°C | 0°C |
| Rainfall (mm) | 85 | 90 | 75 | 70 |
Why Visit Patagonia in July
July weather in Patagonia can be quite wet and snowy, with a variety of micro-climates in each region. Still, there are plenty of reasons to visit Patagonia in July. Here are some of the top reasons:
- Skiing fun: Patagonia in July draws skiing enthusiasts from around the world. While many hiking trails are closed for the season, winter sports season is in full swing at resorts in Ushuaia and Los Glaciares.
- Marine life sightings: In the Valdes Peninsula, the shoreline offers the opportunity to witness colonies of sea lions, penguins, and elephant seals during the month of July. This is also a great time for whale-watching, as the gentle giants arrive here to breed.
- Festivals: Several festivals and events take place in Patagonia in July, such as the Snow Festival in Bariloche, Fiesta de la Nieve in Puerto Williams, Carnaval de Invierno in Punta Arenas, and the National Nordic Skiing and Biathlon Festival in Ushuaia.
- Fewer crowds: Colder Patagonia weather in July means the tourist season is experiencing a lull, and, as a result, popular tourist attractions like Torres del Paine are less crowded.
- Affordable costs: Patagonia is very quiet in July. Although several lodges close for the season, many are still open and offer greatly reduced prices to attract tourists.
Where to Go and What to Do
If you are traveling to Patagonia in July, the Chilean Volcano and Lake Districts, as well as Argentina's Southern Andes, have a ton of top-notch ski resorts. You should consider resorts like La Hoya and Chapelco. Wildlife and nature lovers should head to the Valdes Peninsula for the opportunity to view sea creatures like elephant seals, whales, sea lions, and penguins. They should also explore through Nahuel Huapi, Lago Frias, and Todos Los Santos lakes to reach the Andean Lakes Crossing, one of the most beautiful border crossings in the entire world.
Although the UNESCO-listed national parks of Patagonia are accessible throughout the year, inclement weather may prevent you from engaging in your preferred hiking routes and activities. So we recommend you base yourself in El Chaltén and El Calafate for access to Mt. Fitz Roy and to explore the Los Glaciares. Day trips to Torres del Paine, Puerto Natales, and Punta Arenas are great places to start from.
What to Bring
Weather in Patagonia in July can be quite challenging. With so many micro-climates in different locations, be prepared for unpredictable weather conditions. Include a down or fleece jacket, waterproof jacket, fleece pants, and waterproof hiking boots in your bag to stay dry and warm. Essentials like thermal underwear, breathable long-sleeved t-shirts, ski gloves, wool hats, and woolen socks will also be needed. And do not forget to pack a first aid kit, medications, sunscreen, toiletries, adaptors, and chargers.
Low temperatures, snow, and rain can put off many people from visiting Patagonia in July. But even in the peak of winter you can enjoy Los Glaciares, spot sea creatures in Valdes Peninsula, and enjoy many winter festivals throughout the region. You will also be able to explore this winter paradise in comparative peace and quiet and see more of Patagonia while staying within your budget, thanks to the discounted tour and accommodation rates of the low tourist season.
For more ideas on what you can do on a trip to Patagonia in July, check out our guide on the things to do in Patagonia.
Other related articles:
Patagonia in June
Patagonia in August
