As you might expect from a country that stretches across 2,360 miles (3,800 km) of land, Argentina is more than a tad diverse. Think lush, subtropical rainforests sitting alongside ethereal blue glaciers as well as snow-capped mountains sprinkled with ski resorts, and grape-dappled valleys. As you can imagine, the climate varies wildly in each of these landscapes and is very much dependent on the time of year you choose to travel. This useful guide contains everything you need to know about the best time to visit Argentina for you.
December – February
This is Argentina’s summer and whilst you might assume that it must be the best time to explore, it’s only partly true in Argentina. Let’s start with the good – for those longing to get stuck into the breathtaking Argentinian Patagonia, make a journey to ‘the end of the world’ (Ushuaia & Tierra Del Fuego), and trek the jagged slopes of El Chalten, this is when you need to travel. Here, the bitter winter weather has retreated and daily temperatures are a balmy 18°C. It’s also much safer for trekking and climbing, and local businesses are open and ready to welcome visitors. Sitting so far south, you’ll also experience those gorgeous, long days where you can make the most of every last atom of sunlight.
Our adventure to the ‘end of the world’ trip is perfect for those looking to take in everything southern Argentina has to offer. You’ll begin with a little art and culture in the capital before ticking off the glaciers of El Calafate and El Chalten and journeying down into the depths of Ushaia, the world’s southernmost city.
If you don’t mind the heat, Buenos Aires is still manageable at this time of year but be warned that it can get a little hot and sticky. The same can be said (and then some) for the country’s north, where the subtropical climate can peak at over 35°C – not for the faint of heart.
March – May
Autumn in Argentina is an all-round winner. The temperatures have cooled slightly, making the northern and central regions more bearable, and the deep south hasn’t yet reached its freezing winter, allowing plenty of time to explore. Buenos Aires is beautiful at this time of year and without the stifling heat, you can really pound the streets and explore everything that’s on offer. Also in the central region, Mendoza is picture-perfect in autumn. Visit now to see the leaves of the trees turning from golden to red in a display that could give New England a run for its money. The temperature is also delicious – think warm, sunny days (ideal for wine tasting and exploring vineyards), but a little chilly at night allowing for roaring fires and a good red.
In the north, it’s not as wildly hot as the summer months but the subtropical climate means it’s still quite humid all day long. It’s a good time to explore Patagonia but the weather isn’t as predictable in autumn, so it can be a little hit-and-miss.
With the weather being peachy just about everywhere, this is a great time of year to take in our highlights of Argentina trip. You’ll whizz from the top to the bottom, visiting just about every epic sight the country has to offer, including the falls of Iguazu, the vineyard-lined mountains of Mendoza, and the peaks in the deep south.
June – August
You might not think you want to visit a country in its coldest season (especially if you’re leaving summer behind at home), but Argentina in winter is quite magical. Winter travel often means snow and skiing – and happily, Argentina has a lot of both! You might have explored the slopes of North America and Europe, but a ski session in the Andes is really quite something – where else can you slip off the slopes and into a restaurant serving some of the world’s best steak? Those who want to see Argentina’s tropical north but don’t want to face the summer’s heat should consider a winter trip too. The rainforests aren’t quite as stifling and Iguazu Falls will be much less crowded than at other times, meaning no jostling in the crowds for the top spots.
Pair our secrets of Argentina’s north trip with a spot of skiing for an adventure unlike anything you’ve experienced before. Begin by hitting the slopes, before making your way through the vineyards of Mendoza to the pink mountains of Salta and Iguazu Falls, and of course, with some time in beautiful Buenos Aires.
The only spot we really couldn’t recommend in the winter months is the south. Cold weather makes hiking through this region dangerous, and most business shut up shop due to the inclement weather.
September – November
Spring across the world is lovely and Argentina is no different. Much like the autumn months, this is a great time to visit just about anywhere in the country. The central and northern regions aren’t as sticky and humid as they are in the summer, resulting in comfortable explorations without the stifling heat. Mendoza is as lovely as always in spring; not only are the vines green and fresh but colourful flowers are popping up in abundance – you’ll be hard-pressed to find a dreamier spot to sip on local wine. In the far south, the weather can still be unpredictable, but it’s an amazing time for wildlife lovers who can expect penguins, whales, and seals in their droves. Argentina’s Lake District might not be as well-known as the country’s other regions but if you are looking to visit, now’s the time to go – in spring it’s resplendent with blooms and tangled wildflowers.
Our natural highlights trip is twinned with Chile and ideal for those looking to take in the best of Mother Nature in both countries. You’ll travel from the falls of Iguazu to the wine valleys of Mendoza and the mountains of Bariloche in Argentina, to Chile’s Lake District and the iconic peaks of Torres Del Paine. Lovers of mindblowing topography will be in awe.
