So, what’s the weather like?
Rarely predictable, the weather in Patagonia often depends on the time of year.
Patagonia has distinct seasons, each of which has its own benefits. In summer, which runs from November to March, the days are generally warm and bright. Note that January and February tend to draw the largest crowds.
Outside of peak season, springtime (September to October) and autumn (March to April) are cooler than the summer months, but remain great times of year to enjoy the natural beauty of Torres del Paine National Park and the surrounding region. The colours of autumn, or fall, are a sight to behold.
Autumn leaves at Awasi Patagonia by Luciano Bacchi: http://www.lucianobacchi.com
We close Awasi Patagonia from the beginning of May to the end August as temperatures in June, July and August can plummet, making many areas inaccesible.
Worth knowing: Patagonia is one of the world’s windiest regions, located in the southern tip of South America where the Atlantic and Pacific winds meet. It can be breezy even in the summer, so be prepared!
What should I pack?
In short – dress like an onion! Pack plenty of layers. The weather can fluctuate wildly with no warning, so it’s worth being prepared for every eventuality.
Awasi guests explore the park with their own private guide
Layers
In Patagonia, it’s all about layers. Because the weather can be so changeable, you’ll want to shed layers as quickly as you replace them, so make the process as easy as you can. Think thermals, long sleeved tops and fleeces, teamed with windproof and waterproof jackets and trousers (pants) if possible.
Leggings/ hiking trousers
Leggings are warm and comfortable and perfect for hikes and treks, whilst light-weight trousers (pants) that zip off at the knee into shorts can provide the ideal solution to Patagonia’s ever-changing temperatures.
Hat, gloves and a shawl wrap
You’ll need a warm hat to protect your head from the chilly winds, and a sun hat for those sunny days. Gloves will keep your hands toasty warm and dry. Although the main lodge and villas are cosy, a pashmina, scarf or shawl can be handy for the evenings.
Preparing the tables for dinner at Awasi Patagonia, Relais & Chateaux
Hiking shoes and socks
Sturdy, supportive hiking shoes or boots are a must – if they’re waterproof too, all the better. Ideally you should break them in before your trip rather than risking painful blisters.
Choose thick, cushioned socks that guide moisture away from your feet.
In the evenings, you’ll appreciate comfortable shoes, so pack your favourite trainers / sneakers or some cosy boots.
Most guests enjoy walking from they villa to the main lodge, walking boots can be taken off and replaced with slippers if you prefer (we provide slippers in the rooms).
The villas at Awasi Patagonia are stretched along the Awasi Private Reserve, each with ‘front row’ views, and varying distances from the main lodge (top right).
Swimming kit
If plunging into a glacier-fed lake isn’t for you, each villa has a hot tub so you can enjoy a soak with views of Torres del Paine, or in the evening under the stars.
Each room at Awasi Patagonia has a wood-fuelled hot tub overlooking Torres del Paine
Miscellaneous
Backpack – a good sized backpack for excursions (we suggest 15-20 litres).
Camera – Patagonia is a photographer’s dream – if you can spare the space, think about packing more than just your phone to capture your adventure.
Sun protection – your skin can burn even on the cloudiest days, so be sure to slap on some SPF, and always wear good quality sunglasses that offer strong UV protection.
Water bottle – we provide lightweight water bottles and have our own water-cleaning system ensuring high quality water without having to use single-use plastic.
Chargers and adapters – Patagonian plugs are of the two round pin variety. We have adapters should you forget yours. A portable charger may come in useful to ensure you don’t run out of battery for photographs when out exploring.
First Aid Kit/ Medicines
The Awasi team and your private guide will always be equipped with plasters / band aids, dressings, antiseptic wipes and creams. Don’t forget any personal or prescription medicine.
Driving from the national park to the Awasi private reserve
What should I wear for which activity?
Awasi Patagonia is surrounded by mountains, lakes and woodland, and overlooks Torres del Paine National Park.
Each one of our 14 villas is assigned an experienced private guide and 4X4 vehicle, allowing you to choose your own itinerary and handpick the activities and excursions that appeal to you.
Conditions can be changeable, but our team is always prepared and will ensure you have an experience that exceeds all expectations.
Hiking
Torres del Paine National Park is one of South America’s most iconic national parks.
A puma and her cubs roam through the golden grasslands of Torres del Paine, Chile
One of the best ways of appreciating its rugged beauty is by taking to one of the park’s many hiking trails. You’ll need to prepare for all weathers, so opt for winter kit – wear plenty of warm layers, including thermal tops, waterproof and windproof jackets, hiking boots/ shoes, thick hiking socks and comfortable leggings or trousers.
Wildlife spotting
As above, not forgetting a warm hat and gloves to protect your extremities from the chilly Patagonian winds. Dress correctly to be sure you fully appreciate the extensive wildlife, which ranges from the majestic puma to guanaco and condor.
Gaucho life
If the idea of trying your hand as a gaucho on a traditional estancia appeals, then Patagonia is the place. Jeans or leggings are fine, bring jodhpurs if you prefer. We provide hard hats.
Ride out with guachos (Patagonia cowboys) in the beautiful landscape surrounding Awasi
Lastly, wondering how many days to book? See here for a rundown of the excursions offered at Awasi Patagonia.
We’d love to hear from you, so do contact us with any further questions – we’d love to help you plan your dream trip.