What to expect in Patagonia in December
December is a strong choice for Patagonia: 16° / 5°, with the biggest crowds of the year and premium prices.
Patagonia weather in December
Typical conditions in Patagonia during December, based on long-run climate normals rather than any single year. Treat it as a planning guide, not a forecast.
| Average high | 16°C 61°F |
|---|---|
| Average low | 5°C 41°F |
| Rainfall | Moderate 30/100 |
| Daylight | 16 h 29 min |
| How it feels | Mild — layers weather |
Average highs sit around 16°C with lows near 5°C. It is one of the drier months — pack light.
Crowds & demand
Crowd levels are High for Patagonia — the biggest crowds of the year.
Prices & value
This month counts as high season: premium prices.
What to pack
Layers you can shed: 16°C by day and about 5°C after dark is a two-jacket kind of month.
What it costs
This is peak pricing for Patagonia. Expect to pay a premium on flights and accommodation, and to book considerably further ahead than usual. Compared with the most expensive month of the year, you are looking at roughly 6% less.
Who this month suits
- Travellers who want the most reliable weather
- Visitors who want to catch a festival
- Families tied to school holidays
Events & what’s on
Look out for Magellanic Penguin Season, W & O Circuit Trekking Season while you’re there.
- Magellanic Penguin Season — Thousands of penguins nest at colonies near the Strait of Magellan.
- W & O Circuit Trekking Season — Multi-day treks through Torres del Paine run at full capacity.
Patagonia in December compared with nearby months
If your dates are flexible by a few weeks, this is what shifting them actually buys you.
| Month | Temp | Crowds | Price | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| October | 12° / 1° | Low | $ | 59 |
| November | 15° / 3° | Moderate | $$ | 52 |
| December · This month | 16° / 5° | High | $$$ | 43 |
| January | 17° / 6° | High | $$$ | 41 |
| February | 17° / 6° | High | $$$ | 43 |
These months score higher for Patagonia on the same blend of weather, crowds and price. Same destination, better odds.
Or go somewhere else in December
If the destination is negotiable but the month is not, these places are at their best in December.
Figures are climate normals and modelled estimates — a planning guide, not a forecast. We separate fact, estimate and recommendation. Updated October 2026
