The seasons in Argentina are the reverse of those in the Northern Hemisphere. The weather in Buenos Aires is ideal in fall (Mar-May) and spring (Sept-Nov). The best travel deals are between April and June. The most beautiful time to visit, however, is in October and November when the jacaranda trees are in bloom. "High season" is the period from December through February; "low season" is from June to August. In July and August, there's a slight rise in tourism because of North American summer and the South American ski season (tourists stop in Buenos Aires before heading to nearby ski resorts like Bariloche). In December, weather is pleasant for the most part. However, you won't find over-the-top Christmas decorations and rituals, in spite of the fact that the city's population is overwhelmingly Catholic. In January and February, much of the city is abandoned by locals who flock to beach resorts in Mar del Plata or Uruguay. January is a time when many tourists do visit, resulting in overbooked hotels, yet many restaurants and museums have limited hours during this time period, often closing entirely from January 1 to January 15. Call ahead to make sure places are open.
Weather
Except for a small tropical area in northern Argentina, the country lies in the temperate zone, characterized by cool, dry weather in the south, and warmer, humid air in the center. Buenos Aires in January and February can be terribly hot and humid -- often in the high 90s to more than 100°F (38°C) -- while winter (approximately June-Aug) can be overcast, chilly, and rainy, though you won't usually find snow. As in the rest of the world, global warming is shifting these trends, and sometimes odd heat waves or cold spells happen.
Holidays
Public holidays are January 1 (New Year's Day), Islas Malvinas (Falkland Islands) Day (Apr 2, or the first Mon after), the Monday and Tuesday before Ash Wednesday (Carnival), Good Friday, May 1 (Labor Day), May 25 (First Argentine Government), June 10 (National Sovereignty Day), June 20 (Flag Day), July 9 (Independence Day), August 17 (anniversary of the death of General San Martín), October 12 (Día de la Raza), December 8 (Immaculate Conception Day), and December 25 (Christmas). Most tourist businesses and restaurants, however, will remain open during all holidays except Christmas and New Year's. Christmas itself is also celebrated on December 24, and many places will be closed that day.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
