Patagonia in December: Everything To See & Do
December is arguably the best time to visit Patagonia, offering up to 17 hours of daylight and the year's most stable trekking conditions for an uninterrupted wilderness experience. This guide covers essential weather in Patagonia in December, regional highlights, and curated experiences designed for a refined summer expedition at the edge of the world.
Leveraging the peak southern summer ensures full access to remote high-altitude trails, active wildlife colonies, and hidden glacial lagoons that remain frozen for much of the year.
Below, we break down the logistics of visiting Patagonia in December, from technical packing requirements to exclusive regional destinations that offer sanctuary away from the standard tourist circuits.
Highlights of December in Patagonia
Optimal climate: Southern Patagonia sees average daily highs of 59°F to 64°F (15°C to 18°C), while the Northern Lake District reaches a comfortable 75°F (24°C).
Maximum Daylight: 15 to 17 hours of light per day, with sunrise as early as 5:30 AM and sunset near 10:00 PM in the far south.
Wildlife Activity: Peak nesting season for Magellanic and Gentoo penguins; high visibility for Guanacos and Andean Condors.
Full Accessibility: All remote lodges, mountain refugios, and navigation routes are fully operational and accessible.
What is the weather like in Patagonia in December?
The weather in Patagonia in December is mild, dry, and windy, with average regional conditions ranging from 43°F to 64°F (6°C to 18°C) in the southern reaches.
Key Takeaways:
Seasonal positioning: Early summer; the start of the primary travel season.
General conditions: Predominantly clear skies with high-velocity winds (averaging 20-40 km/h).
Best activities: Multi-day hiking, glacier trekking, and fly-fishing.
Temperature range: Lows of 41°F (5°C) at night to highs of 68°F (20°C) on sunny afternoons.
Regional Weather Overview
Patagonia's vast geography means the weather in Patagonia in December varies significantly between the northern lake districts and the southern archipelago. While December is significantly warmer than visiting Patagonia in November, it remains slightly cooler and less crowded than the peak heat of January.
Northern Patagonia (Bariloche & The Lake District)
In the north, the temperature in Patagonia in December is mildest, with average highs of 75°F (24°C).
Rainfall is at its annual low, leaving the forests lush and the lakes suitable for exploration or swimming in sheltered bays. This region is currently in its prime for fly-fishing and high-altitude trekking under clear Mediterranean skies.
Central Patagonia (Aysén & El Chaltén)
The Patagonia weather in December in the central massif is defined by high visibility and the start of the dry season. While average temperatures sit around 68°F (20°C), the winds begin to pick up, reaching speeds of 20-40 km/h.
These clear skies are ideal for observing the Fitz Roy range or the Marble Caves. The lack of cloud cover highlights the vibrant turquoise of the glacial waters.
Southern Patagonia (Torres del Paine & Ushuaia)
Further south, the temperature in Patagonia in December remains brisk, averaging 59°F (15°C). You can expect up to 17 hours of daylight in Tierra del Fuego.
The proximity to the Antarctic means you should be prepared for the famous "four seasons in one day" phenomenon. Compared to November, December offers more stable trail conditions and significantly longer windows for photography.
This stability makes it the ideal time for those planning a cross-border expedition through the south, where the long days allow for seamless travel between Chilean and Argentine frontiers.
Where to Go in Patagonia in December
The Aysén Region (Carretera Austral), Chile
Ideal for: Secluded wilderness and luxury eco-lodges.
Climate & conditions: Temperate and lush; less wind than the deep south.
Recommended clothing: Waterproof shells and breathable hiking trousers.
Signature experiences: Exploring the Marble Caves and trekking the Exploradores Glacier.
While most travelers head to the far south, the Aysén region remains a pristine alternative for travel to Patagonia in December. Adventuring through the lake districts and forests allows you to witness the northern summer as it brings the temperate rainforests to life and the turquoise waters of Lake General Carrera.
Futaleufú, Chile
Ideal for: High-adrenaline river adventures and remote luxury retreats.
Climate & conditions: Warm, sunny afternoons with low humidity.
Recommended clothing: High-quality dry suits for river activities and light technical layers for the evening.
Signature experiences: Class V white-water rafting and private fly-fishing on the Futaleufú River.
In the northern reaches of the Carretera Austral, Futaleufú becomes the epicenter of adventure in Patagoniain December. The river levels are perfectly balanced by glacial melt, providing world-class conditions for rafting and kayaking through deep canyons that remain largely untouched by mass tourism.
Los Glaciares, Argentina
Ideal for: Solitary trekking away from technical climber hubs.
Climate & conditions: Bright, high-contrast days with excellent visibility.
Recommended clothing: High-UV protection and versatile mid-layers.
Signature experiences: Private horseback expeditions to the Desert Lake (Lago del Desierto).
By shifting focus toward the northern reaches of Los Glaciares, visitors can experience the scale of the Andes without the crowds of El Chaltén. This area is perfect for hiking in Patagonia in December, offering access to ancient Lenga forests and high-altitude lagoons that few others witness.
Tierra del Fuego, Argentina
Ideal for: Extreme isolation and fly-fishing.
Climate & conditions: Cool and unpredictable; maximum daylight hours.
Recommended clothing: Heavyweight wool socks and professional-grade rain gear.
Signature experiences: Heli-fishing for sea-run Brown Trout on the Rio Grande.
This region serves as a sophisticated alternative to the crowded trails of Torres del Paine, offering the untamed edge of the southern frontier. In the interior of Tierra del Fuego, private estancias provide access to secluded river systems and peat bogs that are otherwise inaccessible during the winter freeze.
What to Do in Patagonia in December
Private Glacier Navigation
Why it's ideal in this month: Peak summer heat destabilizes the glacial face, triggering more frequent calving events. This creates a visceral spectacle where explosive, thunderous cracks signal the imminent collapse of towering ice sheets into the turquoise fjords.
Expected conditions: Intense sunlight reflecting off the ice; cool breezes near the glacier face.
Special tips: Polarized sunglasses are essential to prevent snow blindness during long navigations.
Chartering a private vessel allows you to witness the Perito Moreno or Upsala glaciers away from the standard ferry routes. The summer heat accelerates the movement of the ice, providing a dramatic auditory and visual spectacle.
Private Puma Tracking Safaris
Why it's ideal in this month: High visibility of prey species like Guanacos, combined with nearly 17 hours of daylight, creates optimal conditions for tracking. The lack of snow at lower elevations allows for access to remote tracking territories on private conservancies.
Expected conditions: Clear, bright days with high wind exposure in open steppes.
Special tips: Use high-performance binoculars with low-light capability for dawn and dusk sightings.
Engaging an expert tracker for a private puma safari offers an intimate look at Patagonia's apex predator. In December, the long twilight hours provide extended windows for observing these elusive cats in their natural habitat without the intrusion of large groups.
Multi-Day Trekking and "W" Circuit
Why it's ideal in this month: All mountain passes, including the high-altitude John Gardner Pass on the O Circuit, are clear of snow and fully accessible. This reliability allows for seamless logistics on 8-to-10-day expeditions that would otherwise be restricted by spring snowpacks or winter closures. For those exploring the open roads of the Chilean and Argentine steppe, December offers the most stable conditions for a driving adventure.
Expected conditions: Long, sun-drenched days with significant wind exposure on ridges.
Special tips: Book refined mountain lodges well in advance to ensure comfort after a day on the trail.
Hiking in Patagonia in December is the definitive experience for outdoor enthusiasts. The dry conditions make challenging segments, such as the French Valley, significantly safer and more rewarding for photography.
Authentic Estancia Immersion
Why it's ideal in this month: December is the peak sheep-shearing season, a critical period in the Patagonian rural calendar where generations of gauchos demonstrate their precision and skill. Visitors gain exclusive access to watch the comparsas (shearing teams) move through thousands of head of Corriedale sheep while the surrounding grasslands are alive with summer calving.
Expected conditions: Mild weather on the open steppe, perfect for long-distance riding.
Special tips: Participate in a traditional asado (barbecue) for a genuine taste of local culture.
Visiting a working estancia offers a rare look at the pioneering life of the Patagonian gaucho. In December, the rural calendar is busy, providing guests with a chance to witness traditional livestock management in a secluded setting.
Events in Patagonia in December
National Southern Folklore Festival
City/Region: Río Gallegos, Argentina
Dates: Mid-December
Description
This event celebrates Patagonian identity through traditional dance, music, and gaucho skills. It is an excellent opportunity for visitors to witness authentic rural culture away from the primary tourist trails.
Christmas in the Lake District
City/Region: Bariloche, Argentina
Dates: December 24-25
Description
Bariloche transforms with festive lights and German-influenced holiday traditions. The warm summer weather allows for Christmas dinners served "al fresco" overlooking Lake Nahuel Huapi.
New Year’s Eve in Ushuaia
City/Region: Ushuaia, Argentina
Dates: December 31
Description
Celebrating the New Year at the "End of the World" is a bucket-list experience. The city enjoys daylight until nearly midnight, creating a unique atmosphere for festive dinners and harbor celebrations.
FAQs About Visiting Patagonia in December
Is December the best month to visit Patagonia?
Yes, December offers the best balance of warm weather, maximum daylight hours, and full accessibility to all trekking routes and remote lodges. During this window, you bypass the spring snowmelt and the autumn freezes, ensuring that even high-altitude mountain passes are safe for navigation. The extended daylight allows for longer expedition days and more flexible scheduling for private tours.
What should I wear in Patagonia in December?
What to wear in Patagonia in December involves technical layering to manage the rapid shifts from sunny peaks to wind-swept valleys. You must pack a high-quality windproof shell, moisture-wicking base layers, and sturdy, waterproof hiking boots to handle the variable terrain and high winds. Even in summer, temperatures can drop suddenly, so a lightweight down mid-layer is essential for evening excursions.
What are the temperature ranges in Patagonia in December?
Expect daytime highs between 55°F and 64°F (13°C - 18°C) in the southern reaches like Torres del Paine and El Calafate. In contrast, the Northern Lake District can reach up to 75°F (24°C), offering a much milder climate for water-based activities. It is important to remember that nighttime temperatures often drop to 41°F (5°C), necessitating versatile clothing options.
Are there crowds in Patagonia in December?
December marks the start of the high season, and while popular landmarks like the Perito Moreno Glacier will see more visitors, the sheer scale of the region allows for seclusion. We curate private, off-peak excursions and utilize secondary entrance gates to ensure your experience remains exclusive and serene. By focusing on the deep interior and private conservancies, you can enjoy the peak summer conditions without the standard tourist congestion.
Is Patagonia good for whale watching in December?
Yes, early December is the final window for spotting Southern Right Whales in Peninsula Valdes before they migrate further south. However, the month is even better for viewing active Magallanic and Gentoo penguin colonies, as well as the arrival of orcas. The stable summer seas also make for much smoother boat expeditions compared to the turbulent spring months.
Are You Ready to Experience Patagonia in December?
December is a month of unparalleled accessibility and vibrant wildlife activity, making it a premier window for an expedition. Between the 17 hours of daylight and the moderate summer temperatures, it provides the most versatile conditions for both land and sea-based adventures.
Whether you seek to navigate the calving glaciers of the south or ride with gauchos across the northern steppes, this season offers the most complete Patagonian experience. Contact our experts today to begin planning your bespoke Patagonia in December journey to the edge of the world.
