As the eighth largest country in the world, Argentina encompasses many landscapes and terrains. Stretching 2,360 miles from north to south, the country boasts significant altitude variations and a varied climate. From wandering the streets of cosmopolitan Buenos Aires to hiking in Patagonia’s wildest corners, the best time to visit Argentina depends on the region you wish to visit. The northernmost regions boast the warmest temperatures, with a subtropical climate, while the southern regions are subject to Antarctic influences. October to mid-December (their spring) and April to mid-June (their autumn) are generally the best times to visit Argentina to avoid tourist crowds and the higher prices of peak season.
Buenos Aires
The country’s capital, Buenos Aires, has a temperate yet humid climate. Winters are mild (from May to September), and July is usually the coldest month, with average temperatures of 11°C. On the other hand, January is the warmest and most humid month, averaging around 25°C, although sometimes reaching highs of 40°C. Thankfully, the city’s humidity is often diminished by the presence of two winds, the Pampero (from the southwest) and Sudestada (from the southeast), which offer respite from the sometimes stifling heat. Springtime, from September to November, is the best time to visit, as days are less humid but still warm.
Misiones and Corrientes
Located in the northeast of Argentina, the Misiones and Corrientes provinces have subtropical climates, with average temperatures of 16-18°C in the winter and 25°C in the summer (sometimes peaking at 40°C). The Corrientes benefits from a relatively mild climate, while the Misiones is the wettest region of the country, with no dry season and heavy rainfall (especially at night). The humidity here is between 75 and 90%, and in both provinces, you’ll find strong winds hailing from the east.
Cordoba and Central Sierra
The climate in Cordoba and Central Sierra is divided into two main areas; close to the Pampas, there is a temperate climate, while in the north, the climate is more subtropical, with a clear dry season from November to February (enjoying temperatures around 30°C). This region is renowned for its stunning mountain ranges (the Sierras), and during the summer, the weather resembles that of the Mediterranean. However, rainfall does differ in each part of the mountain range – the western side is more arid, with less than 15 inches of rainfall each year, while the eastern side is more humid, with up to 47 inches per year. The average temperature drops at higher altitudes, so bear this in mind if travelling to cities located above 6,500ft, where it’s likely to be cooler than 14°C.
The Argentine Northwest
The north of Argentina has a subtropical climate, however the region also sees cooler temperatures during the winter. It’s most arid in the northwest, with very high temperatures in the summer – averages are above 35°C, although can rise to 45°C – which can sometimes feel uncomfortable. During the winter, temperatures average a more pleasant 20°C; however, at night, this can drop below 10°C. Rainfall is limited to around four inches in the northwest, although tends to be heavier in the Tucumán and Salta provinces. The Iguazu Falls are popular with both tourists and locals, so it’s advisable to visit outside of the main holiday periods (January, Easter and July) to avoid the crowds. From September to December and February to May, the weather is still good, but there will be fewer visitors, so these are the best months to visit the Iguacu Falls.
Argentinian Patagonia
Argentinian Patagonia stretches across 400,000 square miles and comprises mountains, glaciers, lakes and coastline. The climate here is semi-arid and contrasts with the rest of the country, being much more exposed to the cold. On the Atlantic side, weather conditions are dry and windy and strong winds can occur in the summer, from December to February. During the winter months (June to August), temperatures are often sub-zero and unexpected weather can create treacherous conditions. The summer season, from December to March, is the best time to visit Argentina’s Patagonia region, with longer days, less rainfall and pleasant temperatures between 15 and 20°C.
