South America’s second-largest country is teeming with stunning landscapes, majestic cities, storied history, and ample outdoor adventure—it has something special in store for every type of traveler.
However, it’s important to note that since Argentina is in the Southern Hemisphere, the seasons are opposite those in the Northern Hemisphere. In other words, while it’s summer in the U.S. and Europe, Argentina is in the depths of winter, and vice versa. However, since the country is so expansive, temperature and weather conditions vary by region.
“Argentina has diverse climates, from subtropical in the north to subpolar in the south, meaning the country can be visited year-round depending on where travelers want to go and what they want to do,” says Travel + Leisure A-List Advisor Emmanuel Burgio of Blue Parallel, a luxury, boutique travel company.
But while there’s never a bad time to visit the country, some parts of the year are busier than others. Generally, Argentina’s tourism seasons fall into the following brackets:
High season: November to MarchShoulder season: September and October, April and MayLow season: June to August
Here’s a breakdown of the best times to visit Argentina.
Buenos Aires’ Obelisk at sunset.
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Best Times to Visit Argentina for Smaller Crowds
“Visiting Argentina during the shoulder months, which vary depending on the region, is the best way to experience the country with fewer crowds while still enjoying good weather,” says Burgio.
Hiking enthusiasts who have Patagonia in their sights should consider going between September and November or March and April to bypass the crowds. If you visit during the shoulder season, you’ll enjoy mild weather and good trekking conditions without the peak-season rush that usually happens between December and February.
“Many of Patagonia’s top luxury lodges book up 12 to 18 months in advance for the high season, so visiting during the shoulder months provides greater availability and flexibility while still delivering stunning landscapes and unforgettable experiences,” says Burgio.
For those planning to travel to the country’s major cities like Buenos Aires or Mendoza, you’ll get pleasant weather, minimal crowds, and a more relaxed atmosphere by visiting between March and May or from September through November. Burgio says this is an ideal time to check out the wine country surrounding Mendoza and to get a taste of Buenos Aires’ local culture without peak-season crowds.
Meanwhile, if you want to see Iguazú Falls, plan to visit between April and June and August through September for smaller crowds. “During the shoulder months, the weather is still favorable—comfortable temperatures and lower humidity—make it ideal for exploring the fall,” he says.
Landscape of Bariloche, Argentina.
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Best Times to Visit Argentina for Good Weather
The best time to visit Argentina for good weather depends on the region you’re planning to visit since the country is so large and covers a diverse set of geography. Summers in Buenos Aires and other parts of northern Argentina are often hot and humid, while Patagonia can be bone-chillingly cold, windy, and downright inaccessible in the winter.
For Buenos Aires, consider visiting in the spring (September through November) or fall (March through May). You’ll generally get good weather conditions in Patagonia if you visit between December and March when temperatures are mild and hiking trails are open. To avoid hot, humid weather at Iguazú Falls, plan your trip between March and May or September and November. And if you’re sipping your way through Argentina’s wine country, go between March and April to take in the peak of grape harvesting season and balmy weather.
Mountain landscape of El Chalten.
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Best Times to Visit Argentina for Lower Prices
For cost-conscious travelers, T+L A-List Advisor Carola Fresno recommends visiting in the fall and winter for the lowest prices (March through May and June through August, respectively), Argentina’s shoulder and low season. However, she notes that some places, such as El Chaltén in Patagonia, close during these months. Plus, some southern destinations, such as El Calafate and Ushuaia (considered a gateway to Antarctica), experience shorter amounts of daylight in June and July because of their proximity to the South Pole.
Iguassu Falls on the Argentina side.
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Best Times to Visit Argentina to See Iguazú Falls
While Iguazú Falls is spectacular year-round, Burgio recommends the times between March and May as well as September and November, when you’ll most likely see fewer crowds and still catch nice weather. “These months offer a more tranquil experience, allowing travelers to fully enjoy the beauty of the falls,” he says.
Skiers at Cerro Catedral.
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Best Times to Visit Argentina to Go Skiing in Patagonia
Winter in Argentina takes place from June through September. However, there isn’t usually a significant amount of snow in June yet.
“The best time for skiing in Patagonia is July through September,” Burgio says. He also notes that July is often the busiest month for skiing due to the local winter holidays, so he advises visiting in August instead. But you probably don’t want to visit in the dark depths of winter, either.
“If you’re planning to visit Patagonia, avoid traveling from May to September, as daylight is short and it’s extremely cold,” Fresno says. “Some hotels and towns close during this period, [too].”
A malbec vineyard in Mendoza, Argentina.
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Best Times to Visit Argentina to Go Wine Tasting in Mendoza
Situated in the heart of Argentina’s wine country, Mendoza is world-renowned for its red wines and rolling vineyards. The area gets around 300 days of sunshine annually, and it’s a great destination for wine lovers year-round.
But for a truly standout experience, visit in March, the peak of harvest season. “It’s a lively time to visit, with lots of events, festivals, and wine tastings happening due to the vendimias (wine grape harvests),” says Fresno.
Fans watching a game at Alberto Jose Armando Stadium.
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Best Times to Visit Argentina to See a Soccer Match
Soccer (or football) is an integral part of Argentinian culture, and with the popularity of star athletes like Lionel Messi, some travelers come to the country just to catch a game. The football excitement often peaks during the hotly anticipated Superclásico match, usually played at either Alberto José Armando Stadium (aka La Bombonera) or El Monumental in Buenos Aires. The game typically takes place at least twice per year.
“The best time to experience Argentine soccer is from February through May and again from July through November, during the main league season,” Burgio says. “Attending a Superclásico is an unforgettable experience, but tickets sell out fast, so it’s best to plan ahead.”
A hiker in Patagonia.
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Worst Times to Visit Argentina
Both Burgio and Fresno say Argentina is a true year-round destination.
“Argentina is a popular destination for nature lovers, foodies, outdoor adventurers, and culture enthusiasts alike,” Burgio says.
The country is huge, and it offers something for everyone—but some times may be better than others, depending on the activity you’re hoping to do. So, while you may not be able to safely hike Patagonia in the winter, you could live it up and experience the thrill of city life in Buenos Aires instead.
Also, keep in mind that if you visit during some of the country’s major holidays, such as Easter and Christmas, many hotels may be booked up.