Things to Do in South America in March

March weather, activities, events & insider tips

March Weather in South America

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Is March Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect shoulder season with 24-28°C (75-82°F) days ideal for hiking Andes trails without extreme heat or cold
Harvest season brings peak produce quality - quinoa, corn, and potato festivals across Peru and Bolivia with 40% lower food costs
Post-rainy season rivers are full but not flooding, creating optimal conditions for Amazon wildlife viewing with 60% higher animal activity
Tourist crowds drop 35% after February peak, meaning shorter lines at Machu Picchu and 25% lower accommodation prices

Considerations

Unpredictable weather transitions mean you could face sudden temperature drops of 15°C (27°F) between day and night in highlands
Some remote mountain passes still have mud from rainy season, making 4WD vehicle rentals 40% more expensive
Late-season rains can cause 2-3 day delays on popular trekking routes like Salkantay Trek

Best Activities in March

Amazon Rainforest Wildlife Tours

March is peak wildlife season as animals are more active after rainy season. Rivers are navigable but not flooding, creating perfect conditions for spotting jaguars, pink dolphins, and 400+ bird species. Morning temperatures of 22°C (72°F) make early wildlife walks comfortable.

Booking Tip: Book 3-4 weeks ahead through eco-certified lodges. Expect costs of $150-300/day including meals and guides. Look for operators with biologist guides and night vision equipment for nocturnal wildlife. Reference booking widget for current Amazon tour options.

High Altitude Trekking Adventures

Post-rainy season means clear mountain views and stable weather patterns. Daytime temperatures of 18-22°C (64-72°F) at 3,500m (11,480 ft) are ideal for multi-day treks. Snow has melted on most passes, opening routes closed in January-February.

Booking Tip: Reserve permits 6-8 weeks ahead, especially for Inca Trail alternatives. Budget $80-150/day for guided treks including porters. Choose operators with emergency oxygen and satellite phones for high-altitude safety.

Patagonia Hiking Expeditions

March offers the last warm weather before winter with 16-20°C (61-68°F) days and 10+ hours of daylight. Autumn colors create spectacular photography conditions while tourist numbers drop significantly after February peak.

Booking Tip: Book accommodations 4-6 weeks ahead as many lodges close for winter in April. Day hikes cost $60-120 with guides. Self-guided options require booking campsites in advance through park services.

Colonial City Cultural Immersion

March's comfortable 25°C (77°F) temperatures make walking cobblestone streets enjoyable without January's oppressive heat. University sessions resume, bringing vibrant nightlife and cultural events back to cities like Cartagena and Quito.

Booking Tip: March is shoulder season for urban destinations with hotel rates 20-30% below February levels. Walking tours typically cost $15-25 per person. Book cooking classes 1-2 weeks ahead as they fill up quickly.

Wine Harvest Experiences

March is harvest season in Argentine and Chilean wine regions. Participate in grape picking, stomping ceremonies, and tastings of new vintages. Temperatures of 22-26°C (72-79°F) create perfect conditions for vineyard cycling and outdoor tastings.

Booking Tip: Harvest season books solid - reserve 8-10 weeks ahead. Day tours range $70-150 including tastings and lunch. Multi-day packages with harvest participation cost $200-400/day. Look for family-owned bodegas offering hands-on experiences.

Coastal Surfing and Beach Activities

Brazil's northeast coast enjoys consistent 26-28°C (79-82°F) temperatures with offshore winds creating excellent surfing conditions. Water temperature reaches 24°C (75°F) without summer crowds. Perfect for learning to surf or kiteboard.

Booking Tip: March is ideal for surf lessons with consistent 1-2m (3-6 ft) waves. Daily surf school rates are $40-80 including equipment. Book beachfront accommodations 3-4 weeks ahead for 25% savings over peak season.

March Events & Festivals

Early to Mid March

Vendimia Festival

Argentina's national wine harvest celebration in Mendoza featuring grape queen competitions, folk music performances, and harvest blessing ceremonies. Experience traditional grape stomping and taste new vintages directly from producers.

Late February to Early March

Festival Internacional de la Canción de Viña del Mar

Chile's most important music festival brings international artists to coastal Viña del Mar. Six nights of concerts ranging from pop to traditional Latin music with beach parties and cultural exhibitions throughout the city.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Layering system essential - temperatures swing 15°C (27°F) daily in highlands, pack merino wool base layers and fleece mid-layer

Waterproof hiking boots rated for 500m+ (1,640+ ft) elevation changes - trails are muddy from recent rains

SPF 50+ sunscreen mandatory - UV index reaches 9+ at altitude, reapply every 2 hours

Quick-dry pants in synthetic fabric - cotton stays wet for hours in 65% humidity

Lightweight rain jacket with pit zips for ventilation during active pursuits

Insect repellent with 30% DEET minimum for Amazon regions - mosquito activity peaks in March

Altitude sickness medication if visiting above 3,000m (9,840 ft) - consult doctor before travel

Universal power adapter Type C for Argentina/Chile, Type N for Brazil - voltage is 220V

Electrolyte tablets for high-altitude activities and hot climate hydration

Compression packing cubes - domestic flights have 15kg (33 lb) baggage limits

Insider Knowledge

Book internal flights by February 15th - prices jump 40% in March as locals return from summer holidays and business travel resumes

ATMs dispense maximum 40,000 pesos in Argentina but charge $5-8 fees - bring USD cash and exchange at blue dollar rates for 30% better value

Restaurant lunch menus (menú del día) cost 60% less than dinner à la carte - eat your main meal at midday like locals do

Universities resume in March bringing student discounts back - carry international student ID for 20-50% savings on museums and transport