Weather
Argentina's climate this time of year tends to be cooler overall, but the weather can vary depending on where you travel. In Buenos Aires, you'll find cloudy, temperate air moderated by its coastal location, with daily averages in the 50s Fahrenheit range. North at the Brazilian border at Iguazú Falls, you can expect a more tropical environment with higher humidity and temperatures in the mid-70s. The high Andean region of northern Chile and Argentina (Salta-Jujuy Provinces) is typically dry and clear, especially this time of year.
If planning to travel south, Patagonia typically stays in the 30s, with microclimates varying depending on where you travel. With the exception of skiing, this province isn't really a draw for tourists at this time of year due to the wet, cold conditions. Plus, there are fewer hours of daylight, which means outdoor activities are rather limited.
Crowds & Costs
Winter sees relatively few foreign visitors compared to other seasons, but mountain resorts in Patagonia and Mendoza tend to bustle with skiers and snowboarders, especially during Argentina's winter holidays in mid-July, called receso. Schools also schedule weeklong half-term breaks during terms, though the exact dates are set by the school itself. Thus, this is a more expensive month to hit the slopes.
If you plan to visit Northern Argentina, however, you'll find excellent deals and fewer crowds. Southern Patagonia is devoid of tourists, though temperatures, rain, and shorter days deter people for a reason (plus many lodgings close for the season, so there are fewer options). Still, those who brave Patagonia can luck out with gorgeous winter landscapes without the infamous summer wind, though transport services tend to run at a minimum.
Where to Go
For travelers interested in snow sports, Argentina has several great ski resorts sprinkled around Patagonia and near the wine region of Mendoza. Argentina's ski scene has been gaining press in recent years and might be less crowded since Chile typically draws the foreigners interested in hitting the slopes. While there are many options to choose from, you can start by considering Argentine resorts such as Chapelco (near San Martín de los Andes) and La Hoya (an excellent choice for families). Another option near Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world, is the world-class ski area around Cerro Castor.
Other non-ski areas of Patagonia typically empty out and/or close for the season, making July the perfect time of year to visit Argentina's north, where sunshine and comfortable temperatures make Salta and the nearby wine region of Cafayate particularly welcoming. This is also a great time to explore Iguazú Falls, the largest waterfall system in the world, straddling the border of Brazil and Argentina. Península Valdés along the Atlantic coast is also entering its annual whale watching season.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
What to Do
For marine life, you can spot the southern right whale species that is seen in the two main bays of the Península Valdés. These whales can grow up to 65 feet (20 m) in length, and during Argentina's winter months, the whales in the bay can be seen breaching and showing off their skills, which is an exciting sight.
While in the area, consider hanging with the penguins. They can be found in three colonies (Punta Tombo, Punta Norte, and Punta Delgada) along the coast of Península Valdés. The largest colony is found in the Punta Tombo Rookery—home to more than 500,000 Magellan penguins. Learn more about the peninsula in this guide to Puerto Madryn, its gateway city.
Farther north is Iguazú Falls, where you can spend time exploring hundreds of waterfalls along the Three Borders Landmark in the tri-border area between Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay, and enjoy a panoramic view of Iguazú Falls from the walking paths surrounding the cascades. You can see the falls by way of hiking, boating, and biking, depending on whether you want more or less activity.
Another highlight this time of year is the city of Salta 'La Linda' (meaning Salta the beautiful) due to its well-preserved colonial architecture, circa 16th century. Take a guided city tour of Salta's most important buildings and churches, or just relax on a gondola ride for a bird's-eye view of the city. There are many noteworthy day trips from here to massive salt flats, canyons, wineries, and gorges, offering a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
As we mentioned, July means winter and you can take advantage of the slopes at the ski resorts, or enjoy relaxing cross-country skiing and dogsledding excursions that depart from Ushuaia at the bottom tip of the country.
Events in July
Día de la Independencia, Nationwide. Argentina's Independence Day is July 9, and celebrations are especially strong in Tucumán, where the country's independence was first declared. This celebration takes place across Argentina and commemorates the date Argentina was granted independence in 1861.
Snow Festival, Bariloche. This event has become a classic in Bariloche for two reasons: it is suitable for the entire family, and it generates optimism and good vibes when winter comes.
Alpine Chocolate Festival, Villa General Belgrano. During the month of July, the village of Villa General Belgrano offers hand-crafted chocolate in all its forms and presentations.
Traveling to Argentina in July? Check out these great itineraries
Argentina's Salta & Jujuy Province - 5 Days. Discover why Salta is called 'La Linda' (the beautiful) on this 5-day tour of northwest Argentina. After arriving in Buenos Aires, you'll fly here and explore one of the best-preserved colonial cities in South America. Then hit the road with an experienced guide and visit the giant salt flats and Humahuaca Gorge, as well as traditional Andean towns known for pre-Columbian history in the Jujuy Province.
Wildlife & Nature in Argentina Patagonia - 15 Days. This 15-day tour in Argentine Patagonia hits the highlights between Puerto Madryn in the north and Ushuaia in the south, offering a range of outdoor activities and wildlife viewing. The itinerary includes two national parks: Tierra del Fuego (rivers and ancient settlements) and Los Glaciares (glaciers and iconic hikes).
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