The best time to go to Argentina

The best time to visit Argentina is November to February, during their summer months, but it dependant on the wildlife you wish to see. With so much to discover in Argentina, from walking with penguins to scaling icy glaciers and exploring Andean deserts, it is essential that you plan your trip and decide when to visit depending on what you want to experience to get the most out of your time. As Argentina is in the southern hemisphere, the seasons are reversed for many international visitors from the northern hemisphere, but being such a vast country certain regions have their own individual climates that may make travel easier or more restrictive. The Cafayate region for example, being one of the driest places on the continent, can be enjoyed at any time of year, as can Mendoza, whilst some parts of Patagonia are inaccessible in winter. 

It is essential for you to choose the time you want to go to Argentina based on the experience and wildlife you are looking for.

November to February 

The summer months are a popular time to visit, particularly between the peak season between Christmas and New Year which requires early booking to guarantee availability. Being so close to the Antarctic, the southernmost reaches of Argentina around Ushuaia are more suited to travel during this time, when the temperature can reach a comfortable 16°C or 60°F. The north of the country experiences the hottest weather during this time. 

March to April 

Autumn can be an ideal and temperate time to visit most of country. In Patagonia, it marks the onset of winter albeit before the coldest months set in. It is also a great time to visit Buenos Aires and the Lake District, which feels distinctly fresher outside of peak summer and winter. 

May to August

During the winter months, many of Patagonia’s key attractions are closed and the northern areas of the country are amongst the best to visit, such as Iguazu Falls or Salta, where you are likely to experience mild temperatures of around 12°C or 56°F. 

September to October 

As with autumn, the spring months can be an ideal time to visit most of the country the Lake District around Bariloche, as well as Patagonia and the capital of Buenos Aires, which can become unbearably hot in the height of the summer. 

Birds: Year round – from the Andean Condor in Patagonia to tropical birds in the rainforests of northern Patagonia there is always something the whet the birder’s appetite.

Dolphins: December to March – Commerson’s and Peale’s dolphins can be seen along the coast of Patagonia often found surfing in waves or in the wakes of boats.

Elephant Seals: Year round – The giants can be seen throughout the year but the best time to see them is from October through to April.

Killer Whales: September to April – The orcas seen at Peninsula Valdes are famous for their breath-taking hunting techniques. Chances of seeing these unique attacks are at high tide and when sea lion pups are present.

Penguins: September to March – the first Magellenic penguins begin to arrive in late September but chicks begin to be born after November and then start to leave their nests in March.

Sea Lions: Year round – Sea lions can be seen throughout the year but colonies are at their largest from October through to April

Southern Right Whales: Mid May to December – The whales migrate along the Patagonian coast in search of warmer waters. The best sightings are generally in September and October.

Iguassu Falls: Year round – From September to October temperatures are more moderate. January and February are the hottest months and water levels are high.

Patagonia: October to April - when temperature are highest. It is possible to visit during winter but temperatures can often drop below zero.

Esteros de Ibera: September to April – although you can visit throughout the year, spring and summer are best for wildlife.

Wine Country: October to April – this is prime time for vineyard activities as it is planting season though to harvest. It also has warmest temperatures and least rainfall.