Argentina is a vast country that stretches from tropical north to sub-Antarctic south. With its diverse climate, you can explore breathtaking landscapes, historic sites and cinematic countryside all year round.
Argentina’s ideal travel season is between spring (September through November) or fall (March through May). These shoulder seasons tend to have fewer tourists and milder temperatures.
Spring
When considering when to visit Argentina, there are a few seasons that offer the ideal combination of fewer tourists, lower accommodation prices and typically good weather. You’ll also get to witness some of the first spring colors in areas like Lake District or northern Patagonia while hiking trails remain quieter than during peak summer months.
Rain is rare in summertime, giving you plenty of chances to enjoy being outside without worrying about getting wet. Cities such as Buenos Aires tend to have dry summers with only 8-10 days of rainfall each month.
Skiing in the Andes during this period is a popular pastime, particularly Bariloche where the slopes are especially scenic. Furthermore, visitors to Valdes on the southern peninsula of Chile have an opportunity to spot playful whales, penguins and sea lions during this period.
Summer
Argentina’s summers are a popular time to visit due to their mild weather. You can enjoy plenty of activities on the country’s beaches, from horse-riding with gauchos across the Pampas to visiting vineyards for grape harvesting in Mendoza.
Buenos Aires is also the city for those seeking some dance and music, with events like the Tango Festival and Jazz Festival occurring throughout the summer months. But it’s not all about sun – Patagonia boasts an abundance of wildlife – whale-watching season in northeastern Patagonia begins mid-June and lasts until early December.
Winter in Chile’s northern regions is typically less crowded, making it the perfect time to take in the breathtaking natural landscapes of Charcoal lava flows, sparkling salt flats and lush jungle. Additionally, visitors can immerse themselves in Salta’s Andean culture with its leafy streets and museums.
Fall
When visiting Argentina, the best time to go is during fall when temperatures are cooler than summertime. Plus, this is when jacaranda trees in Buenos Aires begin to bloom and hotel room rates tend to be more reasonable.
Mendoza, Argentina’s world-renowned wine region, is at its finest during March when grapes are ready for picking. Visitors can explore these vineyards on wine tasting tours that showcase the region’s exquisite offerings.
For a more desert-like setting, head north-west to Argentina’s Cafayate wine valley. At this time of year, the weather is usually ideal for exploring this high altitude desert with its red rock hills.
Argentina’s northern regions enjoy a tropical climate, while the south is more arid. Northeast of Iguazu Falls, however, receives more rainfall than other areas in Argentina – yet still provides ideal hiking conditions. Plus, its wildlife is diverse too – capybaras, black cayman and howler monkeys all inhabit here!
Winter
Winter in Buenos Aires is a charming time, when jacaranda trees bloom and it’s less busy. For wine connoisseurs, this is also harvest season – vineyards are alive with color and bustling with activities like tasting tours.
For an authentic taste of Argentina’s vast Patagonia region, winter (December to February) is the best time to visit. Temperatures are much cooler and snowfall is rare. This makes wintertime an ideal time for visiting Bariloche’s ski resort or exploring Parque Nacional Los Glaciares National Park.
Summers in Argentina are the busiest tourist season, although it can be hot and crowded – particularly in Buenos Aires. Nonetheless, this period offers visitors a chance to explore some of Argentina’s stunning national parks such as Lake District, Patagonia or Tierra del Fuego.
