With springtime blooms, November is a beautiful month in Patagonia—arguably the best of the year. If that’s not enough, you can visit popular sites and national parks while the crowds and high prices are still a month away. Read this monthly guide to learn more.
## Patagonia in November: A Traveler’s Guide to Spring in the South
Springtime in Patagonia is a unique experience, arriving a touch late but bringing with it a promise of vibrant landscapes and longer days. November marks a transition, a shoulder season offering a sweet spot between the harsh winter and the bustling summer months. This is a time of awakening, where nature begins to unfurl, and the region prepares to welcome travelers from around the globe.
**Weather in Patagonia in November**
While spring officially arrives in November, it’s important to remember that Patagonia operates on its own schedule. The weather is notoriously unpredictable, and microclimates are prevalent throughout the region. In Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world, daily high temperatures tend to hover in the mid-50s Fahrenheit. As you venture north into other areas of Northern Patagonia, you can expect a slight warming trend, with temperatures reaching the mid-60s.
However, don’t be fooled by these averages. Rain is still a common occurrence during this time of year, and it’s not uncommon to experience all four seasons in a single day. Be prepared for sunshine, wind, rain, and even a touch of snow, especially at higher elevations. Layering is key to staying comfortable and enjoying your Patagonian adventure.
Despite the unpredictable nature of the weather, November offers a unique opportunity to witness the region’s wildflowers in bloom. When the sun does shine, the landscapes are painted with vibrant colors, creating a truly breathtaking spectacle. And with daylight hours stretching upwards of 15 hours, you’ll have ample time to explore the outdoors and soak in the beauty of Patagonia.
**Crowds and Costs in Patagonia in November**
November holds a special appeal for travelers seeking a balance between affordability and accessibility. As the last month of Patagonia’s shoulder season, it offers a respite from the peak summer crowds while still providing access to most of the region’s attractions and activities. This means you can often find lower prices on accommodation, tours, and transportation compared to the high season.
Popular destinations like Pucon, Torres del Paine National Park, Isla Magdalena, Los Glaciares National Park, Ushuaia, and Tierra del Fuego are particularly attractive during this time. You’ll be able to explore these iconic locations without being overwhelmed by hordes of international tourists, and you’ll likely find more reasonable prices for lodging and other travel expenses.
However, it’s still wise to plan ahead. To ensure you secure your preferred accommodations and tours, it’s recommended to make your reservations at least three months in advance. This is especially important for popular destinations and specific activities that may have limited availability.
**Where to Go in Patagonia in November**
The entire region of Patagonia is awakening from its winter slumber in November, gearing up for the high season. With such a vast and diverse landscape, deciding where to focus your time can be a challenge. For a classic Patagonian experience, this is an excellent month to explore the major landmarks before the peak season crowds arrive.
On the Argentine side, Los Glaciares National Park is a must-see destination. Home to 13 glaciers and the iconic Mt. Fitz Roy, it’s a hiker’s paradise, offering a wide range of mountaineering options for all skill levels. You can hike to stunning viewpoints, trek across glaciers, and marvel at the towering peaks that dominate the landscape.
Further south, Ushuaia beckons with its unique charm and stunning coastal scenery. Here, you can explore Tierra del Feugo National Park, hike along coastal trails, and embark on boat cruises through the Beagle Channel. These cruises offer opportunities to spot marine life, including seals, penguins, and various seabirds.
Across the border in Chile, Torres del Paine National Park awaits with its dramatic granite peaks, turquoise lakes, and abundant wildlife. November marks the re-opening of seasonal lodgings within the park, allowing you to stay overnight and fully immerse yourself in its natural beauty. For a unique experience, consider staying at an eco-camp, where you can learn about the nomadic tribes such as the Kaweskars and Yaghans, and the history of sheep farming in the region.
Further north, the Lake District provides a more temperate landscape with a wealth of outdoor activities. Explore scenic trails, go fishing or kayaking on pristine lakes, or simply relax and enjoy the breathtaking views. For a more adventurous experience, consider driving along the Carretera Austral, a scenic route that winds through remote valleys and past stunning landscapes. For a touch of luxury, a stay at the Puyuhuapi Lodge can be combined with a boat trip to the Hanging Glacier, offering a truly off-the-beaten-path experience.
**What to Do in Patagonia in November**
Late spring in Patagonia unlocks a plethora of outdoor adventures. Day hikes and multi-day treks are popular choices, allowing you to explore the region’s diverse landscapes at your own pace. Glacier tours offer a chance to get up close and personal with these icy giants, while water sports like kayaking and rafting provide an exhilarating way to experience the region’s rivers and lakes.
Wildlife spotting is another highlight of a Patagonian adventure. Keep an eye out for guanacos, rheas, condors, and various other species that call this region home. And for a more relaxed experience, consider taking a sightseeing cruise along the coast or on one of the region’s many lakes.
Now that organized tours, services, and local guides are operating at full steam, you’ll have plenty of options for exploring the region safely and efficiently.
The Chilean Lake District offers a range of adrenaline-pumping activities, including white-water rafting, zip-lining, and skydiving. You can also embark on volcano tours and explore the trails of Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park. This park is a haven for photographers and hikers who want to immerse themselves in nature without feeling rushed.
In Argentina’s Lake District, Bariloche offers its own network of well-maintained trails with breathtaking views. This charming town is also a popular base for exploring the surrounding mountains and lakes.
If you’re traveling to Los Glaciares National Park, consider taking a guided ice trekking tour to the top of the Perito Moreno glacier. Equipped with crampons and an ice ax, you’ll traverse deep blue ice crevices and hike over meltwater streams, experiencing this rare advancing glacier up close. Alternatively, you can take a boat tour to get a closer view of the glacier from the water.
Near El Chaltén, several day hikes await, including a brisk two-hour trek through the native forest to Laguna Capri, a deep blue lake that sits at the foot of the mountains and offers stunning views of the Fitz Roy massif.
Further south, Tierra del Fuego National Park encompasses an incredible 155,000 acres of land. To make the most of your visit, consider hiring an experienced guide who can lead you to the best hikes, lakes, and lookout points.
Wildlife enthusiasts interested in seeing Chile’s largest colony of penguins can take a half-day tour from Punta Arenas on the Strait of Magellan to Isla Magdalena. You’ll also stop at Marta Island, home to a large colony of Patagonian sea lions and seabirds, including cormorants, skuas, arctic pigeons, and more.
**Events in November**
November brings a variety of cultural and gastronomic events to Patagonia.
* **Puerto Montt International Jazz Festival:** This renowned festival in Chilean Patagonia is the only event of its kind in Chile offering instrumental clinics and free concerts for the community.
* **Lamb National Festival in Puerto Madryn:** This Argentinean gastronomic celebration takes place each November, highlighting the flavors of Patagonian lamb.
* **Goat, Dancing & Singing Festival:** During the second week of November, Argentina’s Neuquén hosts this cultural extravaganza featuring folkloric dances, music, and traditional cuisine.
* **Fishing Season Opening in Patagonia:** The Chimehuín River near Argentina’s Junín de los Andes celebrates the formal opening of the Patagonian continental fishing season in November.
With its unique blend of stunning landscapes, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences, Patagonia in November offers an unforgettable travel experience. This shoulder season provides the perfect opportunity to explore this incredible region before the arrival of the peak summer crowds, allowing you to discover its beauty and charm at your own pace.
B-2013