What to do in Argentina in the Winter
Winter in Argentina is at the same time as Summer in the Northern Hemisphere; from June to September. It is difficult to describe the weather in Argentina because the country is so big and has so many different climates. However, in most of the country there are marked seasons – meaning that Winter is significantly colder than Summer.
Winter is considered low season, as most visitors come to Argentina in Summer, which is also when most Argentinians take their holidays. But precisely for this reason, Winter can be a nice time to look around, with less people, and, sometimes, lower prices. Let’s see some nice ways to spend Winter in Argentina.
Iguazú
In Summer, the epic sights of the Iguazú falls and national park, are generally accompanied by an intense, inescapable heat. In Winter, however, you will be more free to enjoy the park in your own time, and with less people around you. With an average of 7 days of rain a month, you are still likely to escape it. I highly recommend visiting both the Argentinian and the Brazilian side of the Iguazú falls, as the experience is so different. Each visit requires a full day.
Salta and Jujuy
If authenticity is important for you, then Winter can be a great time to visit Salta and Jujuy. The many beautiful small towns easily become overcrowded in the Summer, especially in the carnival season in February. In Winter you will have these picturesque villages to yourself.
In the cities of Salta and Jujuy, the Winter is mild, however, in the smaller towns, particularly in Jujuy, temperatures can reach freezing at night. It is best to rent a car to visit both Jujuy’s Quebrada de Humahuaca, and Salta’s Quebrada de las Conchas. To visit the Quebrada de las Flechas in Salta, it might be better to pay for a tour, as you are likely to damage your rental car on the dirt road!
Bariloche
Unlike the other places mentioned so far, Bariloche’s high season is Winter; and for one good reason – skiing. Despite attracting large crowds, Bariloche has the space, with over 70KM of piste to make the most of. You should book accomodation and skiing in advance.
Mendoza
Mendoza is famous for its vinyards, beautiful city centre, and stunning backdrop of the Andes. Although wine isn’t being made in the Winter, vinyards still operate some tours and tasting sessions. The quiet streets of Mendoza are generally still warm during the day, and cold at night.
Although further from the city than in Bariloche, many people also visit Mendoza to ski in the Winter. For a more relaxing time, visit one of the natural thermal springs in and around the mountains.
Buenos Aires
I love Buenos Aires. Despite Spring and Summer generally having more enjoyable weather, the Argentinian capital is a great place to be all year round. Whether you are strolling the backstreets of San Telmo or looking for a party in Palermo, there is always something to do.
In June and July the average temperature during the day is 15’C, so if you want to do outdoor activities, like visit the Recoleta Cemetery, explore the Caminito in La Boca, or visit one of the nice parks, it would be best to do this in the middle of the day. At night, you’ll need a coat. Take yourself to a great pizzeria on the Avenida Corrientes, drink a glass of wine in Recoleta, or have café con leche and medialunas (croissants) in any of the beautiful coffee shops throughout this bustling city.
Are you thinking of travelling in Argentina in Winter? Or do you have some recommendations for other travellers? Let us know in the comments section below.
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