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With vivid reds and yellows of autumn set against turquoise waters, March in Patagonia is a fabulous time to unveil its hidden treasures, from sighting marine life in Peninsula Valdés to trekking the world’s southernmost trail, Dientes de Navarino. A trip to Patagonia in March can be guaranteed with reasonably priced, quiet, and crowd-free travel. Take advantage of the comfortable temperatures and ample daylight hours to go hiking, horseback riding, or skydiving.

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Patagonia Weather in March

Autumn landscape with Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre mountain in Patagonia.
Autumn ushers in slightly colder temperatures and the start of Patagonia's fall foliage.

Autumn brings with it slightly colder temperatures, and the beginning of the fall foliage in Patagonia, both in Chile and Argentina. The average high temperature is 30 °C and the low is 22 °C. However, the temperature in Patagonia in March varies depending on where you plan to travel. The weather conditions get more severe as you travel further south.

For a seasonal overview, check out our guide on the best time to visit Patagonia.

  Torres del Paine Ushuaia El Calafate El Chalten
Avg high 16°C 13°C 18°C 20°C
Avg low 6°C 3°C 8°C 10°C
Rainfall (mm) 50 55 40 35

Why Visit Patagonia in March

Patagonian hares in their natural habitat in Patagonia in March.
You will get a chance to spot Patagonian hares in their natural habitat during March in Patagonia.
A woman enjoys the scenery after her hike in National Park of Patagonia.
Enjoy a hike in Patagonia in March because the weather is ideal for it.

March provides a fantastic way to catch the first signs of autumn in Patagonia. The moderately cool weather makes outdoor explorations more comfortable and refreshing. Below are some other reasons that explain why you should visit Patagonia in March:

  • Low tourist crowds: Most summer visitors would have left Patagonia by the middle of March. As a result, visitors will find the region’s popular destinations less crowded.
  • Affordable rates: Visiting Patagonia at the start of the fall's shoulder season means cheaper accommodation and transport costs. To get the best deals, we advise planning your vacation at least three months in advance.
  • Outdoor fun: With largely dry skies and mild temperatures, March in Patagonia is ideal for outdoor activities. While hiking is a great idea, you should also check out zip-lining, white-water rafting, and skydiving near Pucon and kayaking and cycling tours in Ushuaia.
  • Wildlife adventure: The Patagonian national parks will be notably quieter during the shoulder season, resulting in an excellent wildlife sighting opportunity. If you are lucky, you will spot Patagonian hares, foxes, armadillos, guanacos, and Pumas around this time.
  • Events and festivals: The National Trekking Festival happens every year in El Chaltén, featuring a marathon as well as trekking and climbing competitions. The event honors Argentina's initial attempt to conquer Mount Fitz Roy, which occurred on March 18, 1948. Foodies should not miss out on the National BBQ Festival Asado where crowds gather in Cholila, Argentina, to share grilled pork while enjoying a music festival and craft fair.

Where to Go and What to Do

Fitz Roy mountain, El Chalten, Patagonia, Argentina
The Fitz Roy hike is a test of endurance, but the view along the way makes it among the most beautiful hikes in Patagonia.

Patagonia straddles parts of southern Chile and Argentina, and both sides offer plenty of things to do, especially in March. Kick-start your journey from the Chilean lands, hike the W-trek of Torres del Paine National Park and drive the Carretera Austral, Chile’s southern highway. From there, take a ferry to Puerto Natales and raft on the whitewater of Futaleufu. Explore the historic Punta Arenas, and soak your sore muscles in the Termas del Ventisquero. Visit Nao Victoria Museum to explore full-size replicas of historic ships. Spice up your tour by kayaking to Capilla de Marmol and exploring Pumalin’s temperate rainforests.

Next, cross over to Argentina by either hiking the Andean crags or by car, and in due course, admire its virgin forests and myriad glacial lakes. Spot wildlife at Peninsula Valdes and see dinosaur skeletons at the Museo Paleontologico Egidio Feruglio. Experience two seasons at once while gazing at the blue-white monolith of Glaciar Perito Moreno. Meet penguins at Punta Tombo and trek around El Chalten, Argentina’s trekking and rock-climbing capital. No matter where your destination is, Patagonia in March has a lot in store for visitors.

As the stunning landscapes of Patagonia come to life beneath the clear skies and vibrant fall foliage. The region’s vast, mystically beautiful spaces, which range from expansive steppes and dry deserts to enormous glaciers and crystal-clear rivers, are ideal for exploration during the shoulder season. Visit Patagonia in March and make use of the discounted prices offered during the season to create a well-rounded trip full of adventure and exploration.

If you have managed to snag a trip to Patagonia in March, you have most certainly made the right decision. For ideas on what you can do on your trip to Patagonia in March, see our guide on things to do in Patagonia

Other related articles:
Patagonia in February
Patagonia in April

Published by Astha Joshi, updated on June 21, 2023

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