Best time to visit Argentina
Welcome to the vast territory of the drama and the joy, the chaos and the order, the nature and the culture.
Naturally, with so many different landscapes and attractions to visit, it’s difficult to find the right time to go.
Even though the preliminary answer is to say that the best time to visit Argentina is from mids of September to ends of April , this is a little bit vague and doesn’t give much information. On the other hand, it might leave out the great experiences of wintertime (southern hemisphere). As a result, we have made a ranking from “the best” to “probably-not-the-best” time to visit Argentina.
This is done according to our opinion, based on the combination of main highlights and the general interests of the travelers.
1). From late September to mids of December (before Christmas): perhaps, the best time to visit Argentina
This is probably the best time to visit Argentina. Spring brings not only the blossoming Jacarandá trees but also a bursting activity of wildlife and you can enjoy the north and central areas without so much heat.
Patagonia opens most of its gates, to receive the visitors with some snowed peaks, beautiful sceneries, and hike trails ready to be rediscovered. Whales, Penguins, Orcas, and other animals, await in places such as Peninsula Valdes. Ushuaia, El Calafate, Bariloche, and El Chaltén, start providing (the season begins) a complete offer of touristic services –for almost any kind of tastes- with reasonable prices and not so crowded.
The vineyards turn green in Mendoza, while the Andean Cordillera rises at the back reflecting the reminiscences of the last winter snowfalls. The Northwest offers pleasant weather, ideal for road trips and to walk along the streets of picturesque villages such as Purmamarca or Cachi. The colors of the Humahuaca’s Gorge can be combined with the remoteness of the Puna (Altiplano).
Buenos Aires has some special events such as the Tradition Day (San Antonio de Areco, with local cultural festivities), and it’s a great time to walk and get lost in the streets of Palermo or Recoleta. The weather is very pleasant, and the trees look great (if you’re allergic be careful though), with blossoming Jacarandas in November. Social life is very active.
Iguazu and the Ibera Wetlands are also very suitable to visit. Summing up: Spring is a great time to go on an “Argentina overview” trip. Furthermore, it’s also a great time to combine your trip with Chile and other border countries!
2). Autumn, particularly March and April
These transition months between Summer and Winter have similarities with spring. April is usually more affordable than March. During those months the trees start turning yellow and red, particularly in Patagonia, offering incredible views.
Most of the excursions in Patagonia still available, and usually less crowded than in summer. The weather still pleasant and the snow is usually not yet there.
The North (Salta and Jujuy) start going back to normality after the rain season (Summer), which allows you to reach a big number of attractions. Mendoza has the “Vendimia” (grape harvest) in March, with its corresponding Festival.
Iguazu and Ibera are not so warm as in Summer, which is very convenient.
Buenos Aires has also some cultural events, and the autumnal atmosphere invites to discover its Cafés and to walk –same as in spring- along its streets. Some of the trees start getting very colorful. Museums and restaurants and social life are very active.
Many times, May could be included as well, but it depends on how’s the weather like during that year, and also where exactly you plan to go.
Combining with Chile is also convenient, but the more-into-winter you go, the fewer alternatives in Southern Patagonia you have.
3). Late December, January and February
Summertime. It’s great to visit Patagonia because of the long days (sunlight) and an incredible variety of activities to do and places to visit, both in Argentina and Chile. The thing is that it can turn very expensive and difficult to find availability. However, if you plan in advance, it can be a great experience.
The Northwest (Salta and Jujuy) is hot (depending the area is dry or humid) and with lots of rain in some particular points (not in the Altiplano, which is very dry). The advantage is that you can see cultural events such as the Carnaval in Jujuy.
Mendoza is nice, with grapes all over the vineyards (February), and great for trekking and outdoor activities.
Iguazu and Ibera Wetlands are very warm and humid, however, the litoral (Corrientes and other provinces) offer cultural events such as the Carnaval.
Buenos Aires is a little bit empty from locals but with lots of tourists. The weather in the city can turn very hot and humid (30+ degrees). Ideal for spending the evenings at the rooftops and to enjoy the nightlife.
Depending on the dates (particularly Christmas and New Year) prices can turn expensive. Likewise, availability for some hotels can also get difficult. However, it depends on when and where you go. Some events (such as football) are usually in pause.
It’s a great time to combine with Chile. These three months can be a great option, but you should prepare the trip in advance and know beforehand which destinations you want to visit (since in some places the weather is great and in others can be uncomfortable).
4). Ends of Autumn and Winter
First of all, May and early June could work be very well if the weather is on your side (Patagonia). However, the weather in the central and northern parts is pleasant.
Except for the School Winter Holidays (2 weeks in July) and some National Holidays, the prices are usually very convenient and you have plenty of activities to enjoy in the snow.
Bariloche is home to some of the most spectacular ski areas in South America, and is very suitable not only for skiing but also for other winter activities. Likewise, Ushuaia seduces with the combination of snow and sea.
The North (Salta & Jujuy) has a considerable thermal amplitude during winter (particularly the zones with high altitude), but still a great time to go, particularly May, June, and August.
Mendoza could have some areas blocked by the snow (high mountains), however, it doesn’t happen all the time and it’s plenty of areas that you can visit.
Buenos Aires has cultural events and social life, however, roaming around on the streets is not as pleasant as in spring or early autumn. Even though temperatures drop down to 10-15 degrees (which is not so bad), the humidity can make it feel cold. There are rainy and days with beautiful sun, which means that it’s not common to have long periods with cloudy weather or a dark sky.
5). The right time for you
In Beyond BA LATAM be offer tailor-made trips, adapted to your needs and preferences. We would love to hear about your interests, so we can help you to find out when is the best time to visit Argentina, for you.
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