Visiting Argentina in February: Weather, Tourism, & More

Due to being in the Southern Hemisphere, February is still summer in Argentina.

February in Argentina brings hot weather to much of the north and center while Patagonia enjoys some of its mildest conditions of the year.

It is an especially good month for travelers planning to hike, see glaciers, explore wine country, or combine several regions in one trip.

Argentina Weather in February

February is summer throughout Argentina, but the country stretches so far from north to south that temperatures vary dramatically.

• Buenos Aires: Average highs are around 83°F (28°C) with lows near 68°F (20°C).
• Mendoza: Temperatures generally range from daytime highs around 84-87°F (29-31°C) to nighttime lows around 63-66°F (17-19°C).
• Puerto Iguazú: Expect tropical heat and humidity, with highs around 89°F (32°C) and lows near 70°F (21°C).
• El Calafate: Patagonia is much cooler, with highs around 62-64°F (17-18°C) and lows close to 48°F (9°C).
• Ushuaia: Average highs remain around 55°F (13°C) with lows near 43°F (6°C).
• Buenos Aires and northern Argentina can experience summer thunderstorms and heavy downpours.
• Patagonia is cooler and windier, and the weather can change quickly even in the middle of summer.

What this means for your trip:
Packing for Argentina in February depends heavily on where you are going. Buenos Aires, Mendoza, and Iguazú call for lightweight summer clothes, while Patagonia requires layers, a windproof jacket, and something waterproof.

Argentina Sunrise & Sunset in February

February still provides long summer days, particularly in southern Patagonia.

• In Buenos Aires, February begins with about 13 hours and 46 minutes of daylight.
• Sunrise is around 6:13 a.m. and sunset close to 8:00 p.m. early in the month.
• By the end of February, Buenos Aires receives around 12 hours and 51 minutes of daylight.
• In Ushuaia, February begins with more than 15½ hours of daylight.
• Early in the month, sunset in Ushuaia can be as late as 9:35 p.m.
• Even at the end of February, Ushuaia still receives nearly 13 hours and 45 minutes of daylight.

The long days are a major advantage if Patagonia is part of your itinerary. You have plenty of time for hiking, glacier excursions, scenic drives, and other outdoor activities.

February Is Peak Summer Season in Argentina

February remains part of Argentina’s summer travel season. Demand varies by region, but Patagonia and Argentina’s beach destinations can still be very busy.

• Patagonia: February remains peak season for El Calafate, El Chaltén, Bariloche, Ushuaia, and other outdoor destinations.
• Atlantic coast: Beach towns remain popular with Argentinians taking their summer vacations.
• Buenos Aires: The capital can feel somewhat quieter than usual because many locals leave the city during summer.
• Pricing: Patagonia hotels, domestic flights, rental cars, and popular excursions can remain expensive.
• Late February: Demand may begin easing as Argentina moves toward March and the end of summer.
• Booking tip: Reserve Patagonia accommodations, rental cars, and important excursions several months ahead if they are essential to your trip.

Argentina’s official tourism board recommends November through March for Patagonia, particularly for trekking, glaciers, mountains, and camping.

Best Things To Do in Argentina in February

February is one of the best months for outdoor adventures in Patagonia while still offering plenty to do across the rest of the country.

• Explore Patagonia – February brings long days and mild summer conditions that are ideal for hiking, road trips, lakes, mountains, and glaciers.
• See Perito Moreno Glacier – Visit El Calafate for glacier viewpoints, boat excursions, and seasonal trekking experiences.
• Go hiking in El Chaltén – February is prime trekking season for trails around Fitz Roy, Laguna de los Tres, and the surrounding mountains.
• Visit Buenos Aires – Explore Palermo, San Telmo, Recoleta, historic landmarks, restaurants, nightlife, and tango while the city has its relaxed summer feel.
• Experience Iguazú Falls – February’s heat and rainfall keep the surrounding rainforest lush, although you should prepare for high humidity.
• Explore Mendoza wine country – February brings hot, sunny days to the vineyards as the region approaches its grape harvest season.
• Visit Ushuaia and Tierra del Fuego – Long daylight hours are excellent for hiking, Beagle Channel cruises, and exploring Tierra del Fuego National Park.
• Look for wildlife around Península Valdés – February can be a good time for penguins and marks the beginning of the period when killer-whale sightings become more likely around the peninsula.
• Explore Argentina’s national parks – Summer opens many trails and outdoor areas that are harder to access during winter.