December is a magnificent time to visit Argentina when spring transitions to the summer season. This is the best weather month to take advantage of beach resorts and outdoor activities in the Lakes District and Patagonia before the peak crowds arrive. Find out what to do and where to go with this December guide.
## Weather in Argentina in December
Summer in Argentina is a truly spectacular time, particularly for those eager to explore the wonders of the southern region. As the days lengthen and spring gently surrenders to the embrace of summer, the country awakens to its warmest temperatures of the year. It’s important to remember, however, that Argentina is a land of vast dimensions, and the weather can vary considerably depending on where you find yourself.
In the vibrant capital city of Buenos Aires, temperatures during the day gradually rise, often settling into the comfortable low 80s Fahrenheit. Journey northwest to Salta, and you’ll discover temperatures hovering around the mid-80s. It’s also around this time that the region begins to experience an increase in rainfall as summer progresses. Meanwhile, in Mendoza, the heart of Argentina’s renowned Malbec vineyards, the weather is typically dry and intensely hot. Then there’s Iguazú Falls, a subtropical paradise teeming with heat and humidity, providing a welcome and refreshing respite as you revel in the cascading spray from the multitude of awe-inspiring waterfalls straddling the border with Brazil.
Venturing south, you’ll find that daily high temperatures tend to remain in the more moderate mid-50s and 60s Fahrenheit. This makes December an excellent month for visiting the most popular Patagonian destinations, including national parks and the picturesque Lake District. However, it is essential to be aware that summer in Patagonia also marks the arrival of the region’s famous and often forceful winds. Regardless of where your travels take you within Argentina in December, it’s always prudent to pack layers of warm clothing and lightweight outdoor gear, just in case of occasional rain showers.
## Crowds and Costs in Argentina in December
Argentina officially enters its high season during the month of December. International tourists, in particular, often choose to travel to Patagonia during the summer months, seeking the most favorable weather conditions for a wide array of outdoor activities. As a result, you can anticipate a noticeable increase in the number of visitors at this time of year. This particularly sweet spot in the calendar sees a surge of travelers eager to explore the magnificent Mt. Fitz Roy, the breathtaking Perito Moreno glacier, the dramatic landscapes of Tierra del Fuego, and even the legendary Cape Horn in the southernmost reaches of Patagonia. These regions, which often experienced a lull in tourism during the colder and wetter winter months, come alive with activity.
To ensure a smooth and stress-free trip to any part of Argentina in December, it is highly recommended to make your travel arrangements well in advance – ideally several months before your intended departure date. This is particularly crucial if you plan to travel over the Christmas and New Year holidays, when tourist numbers tend to peak. If your goal is to minimize crowds and take advantage of more favorable prices, consider visiting at the very beginning of December. The weather is still fantastic at this time, but the peak season rush has yet to fully materialize.
## Where to Go in Argentina in December
Argentina, boasting over 3,000 miles of captivating coastline, holds the distinction of being the second-largest country in South America. The nation is a tapestry of diverse landscapes, from the majestic waterfalls and arid deserts of the north to the breathtaking glacial fields of the south. In between, you’ll encounter towering mountains, sun-kissed beaches, serene lakes, and flourishing wine valleys. In essence, December is a wonderful time of year to explore nearly every corner of Argentina.
With Patagonia now fully open for the summer season, seize this opportunity to experience its wonders before the arrival of the main holiday crowds. Los Glaciares National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, consistently ranks high on the list of must-see destinations for travelers to Argentina. It features awe-inspiring mountain peaks, shimmering glaciers, and vividly turquoise lakes. While this park is undoubtedly one of the most popular natural attractions in all of South America, its remote Patagonian location means that it receives only a fraction of the visitor numbers seen at sites like Machu Picchu.
Beyond this iconic park, Southern Patagonia offers an abundance of lesser-known parks, stunning channels, and pristine islands waiting to be explored on the southernmost tip of the continent. This is where the imposing Andes Mountains meet the vastness of the sea, creating a truly unspoiled and unique environment unlike any other place on Earth. It’s a perfect choice for those seeking to disconnect from the everyday hustle and reconnect with nature.
## What to Do in Argentina in December
For outdoor enthusiasts, December in Argentina presents a wealth of exciting activities and unforgettable sights. Consider embarking on a range of invigorating hikes amidst the stunning landscapes of the Andes Mountains. Alternatively, you could savor the exquisite flavors of Argentina with wine tastings in the renowned vineyards of Mendoza. And don’t forget the opportunity to indulge in freshly caught seafood and spot fascinating wildlife along the captivating Atlantic coast.
In the Lake District, the charming towns of Villa La Angostura and San Martin de Los Andes offer a relaxed pace and a welcoming small-town atmosphere. Both towns are surrounded by unspoiled natural landscapes, making them ideal for hiking and horseback riding. While in the area, be sure to take a leisurely stroll through the streets of Bariloche, where you’ll discover several world-famous chocolatiers.
El Chaltén offers endless opportunities for hiking and rock climbing, but don’t miss the chance to view the awe-inspiring glacier field outside El Calafate in Los Glaciares National Park. Book an ice-trekking tour for a unique adventure, or a more relaxing boat tour that allows you to view several glaciers at close range.
This is also a great month to tackle a multi-day trek like the Huemul Circuit with spectacular panoramas including Viedma Glacier, four times the size of Perito Moreno. You’ll enjoy a remote trekking and camping experience while getting closer to lesser-known glaciers and peaks.
You can also cool off at one of many beach towns along Argentina’s central coast—now in full swing in preparation for summer. Wooded seaside resorts like Cariló and Villa Gesell have forested parks, old fishing piers, and an elevated boardwalk stretching along the coast. Further south, Mar del Plata has a clifftop promenade and a charming harbor with seafood shacks selling fried fish and other local delicacies.
## Events in Argentina in December
**Buenos Aires Jazz Festival**: This impressive jazz festival spans five days and takes place at various venues across the city of Buenos Aires, attracting tens of thousands of jazz aficionados.
**New Year’s Eve Fireworks & Street Parties**: A staple of New Year’s Eve celebrations worldwide, celebratory fireworks are a particularly popular tradition in Argentina. In Buenos Aires, find a spot on a high rooftop terrace to witness the spectacular display as the clock strikes midnight. Be sure to wish those around you “Feliz Año!” Or, head to Puerto Madero on the banks of the Rio de la Plata to witness the fireworks as they illuminate the river.
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