The best time to travel in Argentina
Argentina is a great place to visit in the Spring and Autumn, if you're planning to tour the whole country. If not, then bear in mind the climate varies according to region. April to November is best for the central and northern parts, whilst the Argentinian Spring is best for visiting Buenos Aires.
At a glance
Argentina is a huge country, so the climate varies from region to region. To the northeast, the climate is sub-tropical, whilst the central region is humid and the south the coldest. The best time to visit the country is between March and April and October/November; it's best to avoid the glacial cold that can affect the south, the heatwaves that hit the north and the rainy season. The lovely Buenos Aires is best visited during the Argentinian Spring, which is during the European Autumn, as the weather is pleasant. If you're planning to hike in Patagonia, any time of year will do!
Patagonia and Ushuaïa
Southern Argentina is the coldest part of the country. Be forewarned that the temperature doesn't rise above 15°C! But in general the climate is pleasant all year round, which makes it excellent hiking country, particularly between November and March. You can explore this amazing region at any time of year; why not try the legendary Ruta Nacional 40, one of the most isolated trails in the world.
The Northeast
The northeast of the country benefits from a tropical climate. The rainy season lasts from December to March, so it's best to visit between April and November. It's a great time of year to see the Iguaza Falls, the highest of which is more than 90 metres. Situated on the Argentine/Brazilian border, these waterfalls are a classified UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site and are a must during your trip to Argentina.
La Pampa and Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires is guaranteed to win you over. It's beautiful, the food's delicious, it's a fun place to party and its people are welcoming. A buzzing, cosmoplitan hub, the town perfectly blends modern living with traditional elements and has a lot of activities on offer. Explore it during the Argentinian Spring, in other words when it's Autumn in Europe. During the rest of the year it can be humid and touring the city can be pretty exhausting.
The Centre and Mendoza
In central parts of the country it can be very humid. Avoid the rainy season that lasts from December to March - best to visit between April and November. This region produces two thirds of Argentina's wine and you'll be able to sample some great vintages at Mendoza's famous wine cellars. Outside of the town you'll find a host of outdoor activities, not least a hike around the legendary Mount Aconcagua.
Hiking and Climbing Holidays
Crossing through Argentina is the Andean Cordillera - a world-famous range that boasts numerous, beautiful hikes. You can climb Cerro Torre to the south or head to the snowy peaks of Bariloche. Don't miss out El Bolson in Patagonia, one of the best departure points for hikes through forests, visiting waterfalls and the mountains; Mendoza is the place to go if you want to climb the legendary Cerro Aconcagua! Best to go between September and November (European Autumn) as this is Springtime in Argentina, so you'll find pleasant temperatures suited to hiking through all the country's regions.
The Northwest
The northwest of Argentina is very dry and arid; it's the region crossed by the legendary Andean Cordillera. Stunning peaks line the horizon to the west of this beautiful part of Argentina. Try to go during the dry season to avoid the suffocating heat and downpours that arrive during the rainy season. You'll find some beautiful Andean handicrafts and you'll be impressed by the cacti in the Los Cardones National Park!
Touring a Savage Paradise
Argentina boasts some incredible wildlife. To the northeast of the country, you'll spot capybaras (the biggest rodents in the world), black cayman, howler monkeys and several species of bird. Keeping to the northeast, the Iguaza Falls are home to monkeys, lizards and toucans. If you want to spot cormorans, sea lions or penguins, then head to Ushuaïa. The northeast is best visited between April and November, so as to avoid the rainy season, whilst Ushuaïa is great all year round!
