Autumn is in full swing this time of year in Patagonia with cooling temperatures and fiery colors. Crowds thin out across the region making this a great time to visit with decent hiking weather and lower prices (except for Easter week). Let this monthly guide help you find the best places to visit and things to do._x000D_
April in Patagonia: A Comprehensive Travel Guide
## Weather in Patagonia During April
April is widely regarded as an excellent time to visit Patagonia, offering the advantage of relatively mild temperatures throughout the region. As the fall season unfolds, the forests are painted with vibrant colors, creating breathtaking landscapes. This time of year also presents enhanced opportunities to observe wildlife, as the crowds begin to thin out. However, it’s important to note that as you venture further south into Patagonia, the likelihood of encountering rain increases. Therefore, it’s highly recommended to pack accordingly with warm layers and appropriate outdoor gear to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Those who come prepared may find that they are rewarded with absolutely perfect hiking weather.
While the temperatures may be cooler, with daily highs ranging in the 40s and 50s Fahrenheit and lows in the 30s Fahrenheit, April can still be an appealing time to explore Patagonia. The winds tend to be less intense compared to the summer months, providing a more pleasant outdoor experience. It’s worth considering that daylight hours start to decrease during this time, but you can still expect approximately 11 hours of daylight in April, allowing ample time for trekking and other activities before winter fully sets in.
## Patagonia: Crowd Levels and Costs in April
April marks the shoulder season in Patagonia, presenting an ideal opportunity to capitalize on reduced prices for accommodations and flights following the peak summer season, which spans from December to March. In Northern Patagonia, visitors can anticipate stunning foliage and agreeable weather conditions, perfect for extended days of walking and sightseeing. However, the crowds begin to dissipate, especially in Southern Patagonia, due to the cooler temperatures and increased rainfall.
It is essential to remember that Easter typically occurs in April, which may result in a temporary surge in prices as both locals and international tourists take advantage of the holiday. Nevertheless, in general, traveling to Patagonia during the autumn season translates to more affordable prices and fewer tourists, providing a more intimate and tranquil experience.
## Exploring Patagonia: Where to Go in April
During April, you can still explore almost all areas of Patagonia before the onset of winter closures in the high mountain regions. However, if you prefer warmer and drier conditions, it might be best to focus your travels towards the northern parts of the region. For example, Northern Patagonia, specifically on the Argentine side, offers picturesque road trip opportunities through the stunning Lakes District. Here, you can immerse yourself in the vivid colors of the forests while staying near the charming town of Bariloche. You can engage in a wide array of activities, such as hiking, fishing, and boating, or simply unwind at a cozy chalet-style hotel, sipping afternoon tea while enjoying panoramic views of the majestic Lago Nahuel Huapi and the surrounding snow-capped mountains.
Northern Patagonia also extends to the Chilean side, offering its own breathtaking Lake District, as well as captivating islands off the Pacific coast. You’ll find some beautiful scenery along the Carretera Austral in the unspoiled Aysén region. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the geological formations, along with massive glaciers and diverse marine life in the awe-inspiring Laguna San Rafael National Park.
Another destination you’ll want to prioritize is Chile’s Torres del Paine National Park before some of the park’s accommodations close for the season in May. It is crucial to be prepared for unpredictable and varied weather conditions, as you may experience all four seasons in a single day. While you might encounter favorable hiking weather in April, there is also a chance you won’t, so bringing a good book to enjoy during potential downtime is a great idea.
## Patagonia: Activities and Things to Do in April
Most outdoor activities in Patagonia are still readily available this time of year, before the focus shifts to snow skiing in the coming months. Nature enthusiasts will discover an abundance of stunning autumn landscapes to keep them thoroughly engaged during the day, provided they are adequately prepared for the prevailing weather conditions. One of the simplest and most serene activities is exploring the diverse range of hiking trails during the day and marveling at the breathtaking stargazing opportunities at night.
For additional ideas and experiences, you can explore the captivating sites along either the Atlantic or Pacific coastline. On Argentina’s Atlantic side, consider a scenic drive to Peninsula Valdés to witness the incredible spectacle of whale-watching and observe other fascinating marine life. This area is also home to unique, off-the-beaten-path historic Welsh settlements like Gaiman and Trelew, where traditional teahouses continue to serve delightful afternoon tea and traditional Welsh delicacies every day.
On Chile’s Pacific side, take the time to explore the architectural marvels on the Chiloé archipelago, a UNESCO World Heritage Site boasting dozens of remarkable wooden churches dating back to the 16th century.
If your travels coincide with Easter week, which is the most significant religious holiday in both Chile and Argentina, be sure to sample the local seasonal treats and immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere.
## Events in Patagonia During April
* **Festival Nacional del Chocolate:** Held during Holy Week, the town of Bariloche in Argentina hosts the popular Chocolate Festival. This festive celebration often features a massive chocolate egg, which is ceremoniously cracked open and shared on Easter Sunday. In addition, visitors can marvel at the world’s longest chocolate bar on display.
* **Rosehip Festival:** During the first two weeks of April, the Rosehip Festival takes place in the district of Huinganco in Argentina. The event honors the production of the local fruit and its associated products. Expect to enjoy singing and dancing with local artists, and witness a traditional mule race on the closing day.
* **Semana Santa (Easter):** As the majority of the populations in Chile and Argentina identify as Catholic, Holy Week is a deeply significant holiday celebrated throughout Patagonia. Watch for local celebrations, gatherings, and food-centered festivities.
* **National Trout Festival:** During the first half of April, the Lake District of Argentina welcomes fly-fishing enthusiasts who participate in fishing excursions and attend lectures from specialists.
## Patagonia: Journey into the South
* **Torres del Paine & El Calafate:** Journey to the deep south of Chile and Argentina. This 8-day itinerary explores snow-capped peaks and thundering waterfalls in Chilean Patagonia’s Torres del Paine. Next, travel to Argentine Patagonia for a glacier hike and other activities while based in El Calafate.
* **Patagonia’s Navarinos Teeth Trek:** Hike an important trail on the very tip of South America. Part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve called Cabo de Hornos, Chile’s Navarino Island is home to human settlements of Yagan people, one of the last native groups on the continent.
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B-2017