The Best Time of Year to Go to Argentina

Well, there really is only one answer to this million dollar question: spring. Argentina is in the Southern Hemisphere, so spring in this South American country officially starts on September 21 and ends on December 21, after which summer begins. So that means October, November, and December are the months that we’re dealing with, but ideally, November is when you want to be hitting Argentine shores.

November is when it all goes off: in the capital, Buenos Aires, the weather is hot but not as suffocating as it is in the summer, and the humidity hasn’t fully kicked in yet. So the warm days and temperate nights of November are perfect for dining outdoors, going to asados, or barbecues on friends’ roof terraces, and attending one of the many pool parties that are put on around the city.

Buenos Aires comes alive in November, as the porteños dust off their bikinis and sunglasses and come out of winter hibernation. The polo championship takes place in November, a perfect opportunity to indulge in the opulence and elegance of this wonderful sport. And for music lovers, the free PM festival is held every weekend throughout springtime, so you can groove away with the hot young things until the sun goes down. The jazz festival also takes over the city in November, so really, there’s no excuse for not getting out there and seeing what’s on.

Further afield, the environs of Cordoba, Argentina’s second city, are also best appreciated in the spring. The beautiful sierras are perfect for hiking and trekking, and the region is dotted with lakes, rivers and streams for you to cool off in after making it to the top of one of the hills. It rarely rains in November, another big plus to any outdoor activities you might wish to partake in. Iguazu is best visited in early spring, as the humidity and closeness of the jungle—and all the bugs and discomfort that come with it—are unbearable in late spring and summer. Mendoza’s vineyards, lakes and mountains are most inviting in the spring, allowing you to fully enjoy all of the activities they offer, such as cycling around the wineries, rafting, or using the amazing hot springs.

Patagonia also benefits hugely from higher temperatures in the spring. While you might want to avoid the region in winter—unless you plan on engaging in winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding—spring and summer are excellent times to visit, although no doubt you will experience some of Patagonia’s famously unpredictable weather. Spring is ideal for visiting Bariloche and the lake district, as well as being a great time to go to Ushuaia in the very south.