When is the best time to visit Argentina?

Given the immense size of Argentina, the weather in the country varies hugely from one region to another. When planning a trip, it’s important to think about what the seasonal weather will be like in the region you’re planning to visit, so you can try to see each area of the country at the optimal time of year. Of course, the best time to visit Argentina depends on what areas you want to explore and what you plan to do.

With so many unmissable things to do in Argentina, narrowing down when to visit can be tricky. The country is known for its love of tango and asados (barbecues), but also has a wealth of natural wonders like the Lake District in the south and Iguazú waterfalls of the north-west. For more details on what to see and what to expect in the country, take a look at our Argentina Travel Guide.

We’ve provided a detailed guide to the weather and climate across this vast country below so that you can choose the best time to travel to Argentina.

Climate in Argentina

From the snow-topped mountain peaks of the Andes to the sun-soaked beaches outside Buenos Aires, Argentina’s climate covers a huge range of weather conditions. Read on to find out the best time to visit Argentina.

This vast country can be categorised into four main regions: Patagonia, the Pampas, the Andes and the north.

Weather in Patagonia

Anyone seeking an adventurous trip can consider the lakes, mountains and glaciers of Patagonia –the ideal region for an off-the-beaten-path experience.

This vast wilderness stretches across the south of Argentina and into neighbouring Chile, covering an incredible 400,000 square miles. It encompasses lakes, mountains, glaciers and coast. During the summer months (December to March) temperatures reach 15-20°C and the rainfall is at its lowest, making this the optimum time to visit Patagonia. While in the winter months (June to August), the temperature drops below freezing and many visitor attractions close.

Most of the country enjoys hot, humid summers and cold, dry winters, but in Patagonia, the weather conditions are reversed with the summer providing hot and dry conditions and increased rainfall during the cold winter months - making this region a unique destination in Argentina. The best time to visit Patagonia would be during the summer season, as ice and unexpected weather can make this scenic destination treacherous during winter. The mild weather of the summer months offers the perfect opportunity for discovering the beautiful Patagonian landscape, as this is the time of year when national parks and glaciers are often easily accessible and hiking conditions are good.

Discover more about this seemingly endless landscape that has inspired writers and adventurers with its epic scenery in our Patagonia Travel Guide.

Weather in the Pampas and central region

Famed for its great nightlife, passionate locals and love of tango, Buenos Aires is a must-visit for anyone heading to Argentina.

Of course, Buenos Aires is only a small part of the central region. The pampas – a place of big skies and fertile, lush grasslands where cattle graze – seems to stretch as far as the eye can see and beyond. The weather in the Pampas is hot and humid in summer (Dec-Feb) and cool and dry in the winter (June-August). With cooler, less humid days, Spring (Sep-Nov) is the best time to visit the Pampas or Buenos Aires.

Find out more about the region Buenos Aires Province Travel Guide.

Weather in the Andes

The world’s longest mountain range, this magnificent set of peaks is a big draw for travellers and passes through seven South American countries. It can be a treacherous place to climb or hike if you’re not experienced, but under the right weather conditions, the Andes is an incredible region to visit.

The weather in the Argentine Andes dips below freezing during the winter and, of course, the higher you get the quicker the temperature can drop. The best time to visit the Andes is during the spring and summer months when the warmest weather averages 20°C; a far more comfortable temperature for walking and exploring.

Argentina lays claim to the highest peak outside of the Himalayas, the 6,959-metre-high Aconcagua – definitely not a peak that should be attempted without serious advance planning. Exploring the Andes region might well mean venturing across the border into Chile.

Weather in the north

Expect heat and humidity on a trip to the north of Argentina. This subtropical zone is home to wetlands, salt flats and even an area of rainforest where you’ll find the awe-inspiring Iguazú Falls.

In the summer, temperatures can reach above 35°C and it can be uncomfortably humid. The northwestern region of Argentina gets nearly 500mm of rainfall a year, that gives you an idea of the humidity to expect when visiting this beautiful yet humid part of the country. The Iguazú falls are popular with locals and tourists alike – so try to avoid the main holiday periods of January, Easter week and July – September to December and February to May will see good weather and fewer crowds. ,

You’ll have the chance to explore breathtaking cloud forests and take in Spanish colonial architecture during a trip to this region, known as the birthplace of Argentina. Find out more in our guide to the Northwest of Argentina.

 

Visit Argentina in winter

The winter months of June, July and August are the best time to travel to the Andean ski resorts, but blizzards can cut off towns in Patagonia and many places close from Easter through to October, so it’s not a good time to tour the southernmost region. Temperatures in the north of the country should be pleasant at this time of year, although Buenos Aires can come across as somewhat bleak in July and August, despite a plethora of indoor attractions.

Visiting Argentina in June

The usually hot and humid climate of the north of Argentina is much milder during winter, so why not use June to explore this scenic region? The natural landscape is full of unusual geographic formations, from charcoal lava flows to sparkling-white salt flats and lush jungle terrain, so head north for a trip through Argentina’s stunning northern scenery.

Visiting Argentina in July

It’s ski season in Argentina! Although not on the same scale as European and North American ski resorts, Argentina still has great offerings when it comes to skiing. July through to August is prime ski season, so pack your ski boots and head to the Andes to brave the slopes then enjoy evenings by the fire, taking in phenomenal snowy vistas.

Visiting Argentina in August

In Argentina’s capital, August is a cold and quiet time of year when many attractions shut down for the winter. However, Buenos Aires comes to life during the world-famous Tango International Festival. Expect two weeks of free performances, concerts and classes, and the all-important international tango championship.

Visit Argentina in spring

Roughly falling from September to November, the Argentine spring is perfect just about everywhere and worth considering when deciding the best time to visit, although in the far south icy gales may blow.

Visiting Argentina in September

The elegant city of Salta is a beautiful place to visit at this time of year. With its Spanish colonial architecture and valley scenery, not to mention the huge religious procession that travels through the city streets at the beginning of September, it’s an atmospheric destination for your springtime travels.

Visiting Argentina in October

October in Argentina means one thing: Octoberfest! This festival originated in Germany of course but the Patagonians have adopted it and made it their own with beer, singing and dancing you’ll only find in South America. Travel to Villa General Belgrano for the two-week extravaganza and get involved in the festivities.

Visiting Argentina in November

Throughout both October and November, the weather in Buenos Aires is mild, meaning you can avoid the heat, humidity and crowds of the summer and the rain and cold of Buenos Aires in winter. The jacaranda trees are also in full bloom, adding to the beauty and relaxed atmosphere of this fantastic city.

Visit Argentina in summer

Summer (December to February) is the only time of year to attempt b the highest Andean peaks, such as Aconcagua, and also the most reliable time of year to head for Tierra del Fuego, though it can snow there any time of year. Buenos Aires is liable to be very hot and sticky in December and January, and you should certainly avoid the lowland parts of the north at this time of year, as temperatures can be scorching and roads flooded by heavy storms.

Visiting Argentina in December

Experience Christmas Eve in Buenos Aires where fireworks light up the night sky, or you could head out into one of the charming towns or villages to spend Christmas amid the warm hospitality stunning landscape of the southern lake district.

Visiting Argentina in January

This month is the middle of summer so beaches become the biggest draw for those on holiday. Argentina is not famed for its beautiful beaches, but there are hidden gems to discover if you know where to look. Our local experts can provide advice and insight on the best beaches for a tailor-made trip to Argentina.

Visiting Argentina in February

A month full of festivals, you could escape up to the north-western region at the beginning of the month when the indigenous population celebrates the Mother Earth deity with a moving Pachamama festival, or wait until mid-February when a craft festival takes place in the high-altitude settlement of Antofagasta de la Sierra. Best of all, for five days after Ash Wednesday, a nationwide carnival takes place; sing, dance and join in the country’s premier parades in Gualeguaychú.

Visit Argentina in autumn

Autumn (March, April and May) is a great time to visit Mendoza and San Juan provinces for the wine harvests, and Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego to witness the eye-catching red and orange hues of the beech groves.

Visiting Argentina in March

Toast to a great holiday with a trip to Argentina during March as this is the month the Grape Harvest Festival takes place in Mendoza. Located in Cuyo, in the heart of Argentina’s ‘Wine Country’, Mendoza is Argentina’s wine capital, with March temperatures hitting around 25°C, and it’s the perfect place to try world-famous Malbec wines.

Visiting Argentina in April

An escape from winter’s harsh temperatures and summer’s stifling heat, autumn allows walkers and explorers the chance to go adventuring in Patagonia. April is the perfect month to head to Patagonia’s pristine Los Glaciares National Park World Heritage Site and strike out to discover breathtaking views from Patagonia’s hiking capital, El Chaltén.

Visiting Argentina in May

Autumn is a great time to get out and about in the Pampas, so venture out in the mild May weather to discover the verdant plains where cattle roam. Travel on foot or bike across the flat landscape before stopping by a restaurant to try the renowned Pampas beef – the export that put Pampas on the map during the 20th century.

Ready to dance your way across Buenos Aires or enjoy a taste of Mendoza’s finest wines? Find out more and plan your trip by reading our guide to festivals across Argentina.

The best time to travel to Argentina

No matter what time of year you decide to visit this magnificent country, there’s plenty of spectacular things to do in Argentina.

Whether you choose to venture to the furthest reaches of Patagonia, road trip across the never-ending plains of the Pampas, or enjoy an exciting city break in bustling Buenos Aires, you’ll have a memorable experience.

Visiting Argentina during the holiday seasons

A final point to bear in mind: the national holiday seasons are in January, Easter and July when transport and accommodation can get booked up and rates are hiked, sometimes almost doubling. If you plan to travel during these times of the year, it’s worth being prepared and booking well in advance.

 

Top image: Perito Moreno, Argentina © saiko3p/Shutterstock