Summer in Argentina: December to February

December to February is peak summer — and everything that comes with it. Heat, holidays, full access.

Patagonia is at its most reliable: long days, open trails, full services around El Calafate and El Chaltén. But this is also when everyone else has the same idea. Expect crowds and peak pricing in the famous places, wide empty spaces and tranquillity in the bits which don't make guidebook top 10s. The north runs hot. Salta, the Puna, Iguazú — humidity and afternoon heat become part of daily planning rather than something to dodge entirely. You work around it, not against it. Central regions sit somewhere in between.

This is Argentina at its most open and energetic, especially in January. It rewards those who plan ahead and don't mind sharing the stage.

As summer arrives, temperatures climb sharply across northern and central Argentina. School holidays begin mid-December, and Argentines scatter to Atlantic beaches, lakeside resorts around Bariloche and Córdoba. Buenos Aires, despite its reputation for nightlife, goes surprisingly quiet over Christmas and New Year. Locals celebrate with family or leave the capital entirely. Iguazú is hot, but water levels remain high.

Southern Patagonia is the opposite story. Mild weather, extraordinarily long days - perfect conditions for day hikes around El Chaltén or a road trip down the Ruta 40. In Ushuaia, the sky barely darkens: two, maybe three hours of night.

This is the hottest, most humid stretch in north-east and central Argentina. Buenos Aires in January? The porteños have the right idea — get out if you can. The city's summertime humidity is genuinely oppressive. The north-west tells a different story. Yes, it's rainy season, but that brings green landscapes and sunny spells between the downpours. Salta and surrounds are popular for good reason. Patagonia hits its stride. Long daylight hours mean full days hiking around El Chaltén — though pack for everything. Strong winds and 'four seasons in a day' weather aren't a cliché down here. They're a forecast.

North-east and central Argentina cool a fraction — though cool is relative. Buenos Aires can still feel properly hot. Iguazú gets crowded this month, South American holidaymakers arriving in force, and high water levels sometimes restrict access to parts of the park. Around Salta, expect short, sharp showers and nights that stay hot and sticky. If you're driving, a 4x4 isn't optional.

Patagonia, though? This is one of the best windows. All the way down the Ruta 40 to El Calafate and Chaltén, and beyond to Ushuaia - conditions are excellent. National parks will be busier, yes, but that's where timing and route choices matter. We'll help you pick your moments and find the quieter corners. Blissful solitude exists; you just have to know where to look.

Summer changes the tone of Buenos Aires. December is warm and sociable — long evenings, outdoor life in full swing. January runs hotter and noticeably quieter; many porteños leave the city, lending it an oddly spacious feel. February brings things back to life, still warm but more animated. Across all three months, the rhythm shifts: evenings, neighbourhoods, indoor culture when the midday heat hits.

Salta in summer is warm rather than oppressive, though afternoons can push it. December and January are the liveliest months, with summer showers refreshing the surrounding valleys. Sunsets are typically more spectacular. February follows a similar pattern with slightly fewer visitors. The region stays accessible throughout - days just tend to start early and slow down by mid-afternoon. Work with it.

The Puna is shaped by altitude and summer rains. December and January bring warmer temperatures but also afternoon storms — they can disrupt travel plans, yes, but they also transform the landscape. February continues the pattern, often with greener tones and dramatic skies. Travel here is best approached slowly, with flexibility built in. 

Summer is powerful at Iguazú. December already feels hot and humid, but water levels are strong. January is intense - heat, humidity and crowds all peak - yet the falls are at their most dramatic. Worth it. February remains lush and warm, often with breathing room that January lacks. Wildlife is active throughout; visits work best early or late in the day.

Mendoza in summer is dry and bright. December is particularly appealing - warm days, relaxed vineyard visits. January and February run hotter, especially inland, but evenings cool enough for outdoor dining. The valleys feel lively, though tastings are more about atmosphere than winemaking activity. Harvest energy comes later.

Around Bariloche, summer brings clarity and ease. December offers long days and fresh landscapes. January is the liveliest and warmest. February settles slightly but remains ideal for hiking, lakes and outdoor life. Trails, lakes and mountain roads are fully accessible, and the region absorbs visitors well despite peak season. Space exists if you know where to look.

Summer is prime season here. December brings excellent conditions with slightly fewer visitors. January is busy in famous areas but offers maximum daylight and full trail access. February balances reliability with a marginally quieter feel. Hiking conditions are at their best across all three months - though wind remains a constant presence. It's not weather, it's Patagonia.

Summer shifts the emphasis at Valdés. December catches the tail end of whale season, while January and February turn attention to sea lions, elephant seals and birdlife. Weather is dry and warm.