Patagonia in September: All You Need to Know
With winter still in touch and spring creeping in, you will find the visitor numbers dropping in Patagonia in September. This is the time when you will have snow-covered landscapes and national parks all to yourselves. If you do not mind the pesky weather on your trip to Patagonia, September is a perfect time for skiing on the dramatic peaks between Chile and Argentina, watching whales around Peninsula Valdes, or snapping up some rare wildlife with your camera at Torres del Paine National Park.
- Salvatore T.
Patagonia Weather in September
The weather in Patagonia in September marks the official transition of the region from winter to spring. However, sping does not arrive till November. The average temperature ranges between lows of -1°C and highs of 15°C.
Expect warm days and cool nights coupled with strong winds if you are visiting Patagonia in September. The positive is that the region sees little rain and longer daylight hours, allowing you to spend more time on outdoor adventures. For a fjord tour and a great wildlife encounter in Puerto Natales, September has the ideal weather. This is also the best time for extreme spring skiing at the snow-piled Bariloche.
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 | 11°C | 8°C | 12°C | 14°C |
| Avg low | 0°C | -3°C | -1°C | 1°C |
| Rainfall (mm) | 70 | 75 | 65 | 60 |
Why Visit Patagonia in September
As winter gives way to spring, September in Patagonia marks the beginning of the shoulder season. Below are a few of the many reasons to inspire a trip to Patagonia in September:
- Better prices: Patagonia in September is an excellent option because hotels are just starting to accept guests after the chilly winter months. Thus, you can secure great deals from hotels and airlines. People traveling to Chilean Patagonia should, however, be aware that rates may increase at popular locations closer to Independence Day celebrations.
- Fewer crowds: Now that fewer people are visiting Patagonia, you can explore the national parks and other popular destinations at your own pace without large tourist crowds distracting you.
- Outdoor fun: Despite the strong winds, September weather in Patagonia is still ideal for touring, hiking, and a variety of other activities. Enjoy the beautiful snow-covered vistas, and try skiing on one of the numerous volcanoes, ice caps, or ski resorts. This is also a great period for photographers because there is a higher probability of clear days.
- Wildlife adventure: Since there is still snow on the ground, animals can be found in the lower valleys close to where you will be strolling, driving, or riding. This is a time when you are guaranteed to get a closer encounter with Patagonia's wildlife.
- Festivals: On September 18, Chileans celebrate Independence Day with barbecue parties, wine, and a range of festivities. On the Argentine side of Patagonia, you will find the National Ski Festival where people from different countries compete in skiing, kayaking, and mountain biking events. This is a great time to get in on the festivities.
Where to Go and What to Do
Chile's Futaleufu and Puerto Natales, El Chalten, and Peninsula Valdes of Argentina are just a few of the many best places to visit in Patagonia in September. Kick-start your journey with an experience of Patagonia's Torres del Paine. Tour the northern Patagonian ice field and go on a boat expedition to General Carrera Lake's marble caves. You can also snowshoe when you visit Los Glaciares and ski-tour the Araucaria Forest. Explore the small Chilean village, Futaleufu, and raft on one of the finest white water rafting spots in the world, the Futaleufu River, While at it, take in the unique ambiance of the untouched landscape. Next, navigate the Balmaceda and Serrano Glaciers from Puerto Natales and explore the Milodon Cave.
As you head to your next destination, take your time to walk with penguins on Magdalena and Marta Islands and climb the snow-capped Villarrica Volcano. Alternatively, try ice-trekking the difficult Cagliero Glacier or kayaking down the Las Vueltas River in El Chalten. Later, head on to Peninsula Valdes, the pride of Argentina, and spot some orcas along the coastline of Punta Norte. Visiting the pink salt lakes of Valdes and viewing the mesmerizing sunset at Salina Grande or Chica are some of the other relaxing things to do in Patagonia in September.
Visitors from all over the world have always been charmed by Patagonia's untamed and stunning scenery. By visiting Patagonia in September, you can take advantage of fewer crowds and off-season pricing, all while enjoying Patagonia's most thrilling outdoor expeditions, and photogenic backdrops.
Chat with our travel experts in the country who can help you design a tailor-made trip to Patagonia, or have a look at our guide on how to plan a Patagonia trip for more information.
