El Calafate

El Calafate Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit

Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit El Calafate.

Climate overview of El Calafate

The climate in El Calafate is primarily dry. The city's extremes of cold and heat are moderated by the influence of a large lake. In summer the weather is dry, sunny, cool and windy; the average temperature is around 20°C (68°F), but it can reach a maximum of 30°C (86°F) and a minimum of 10°C (50°F). Winds are usually moderate, but there can reach gusts of over 120 kilometers (74 mph) per hour. Rainfall is evenly spread out over the year

El Calafate Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in El Calafate — and find the best time to visit.

Monthly Temperature in El Calafate

The climate in El Calafate is known for significant temperature differences throughout the year, making the weather dynamic. Average daytime temperatures reach a moderate 16°C (61°F) in January. In July, the coolest month of the year, temperatures drop to a chilly 3°C (37°F).

At night, temperatures range from around 5°C (41°F) in January to -4°C (25°F) in July.

Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.

Temperature ranges by month

Rainfall in El Calafate

Generally, El Calafate receives mid-range precipitation levels, with 858 mm (34 in) annually. Despite minor fluctuations, El Calafate enjoys fairly consistent precipitation throughout the year. In April, you can expect around 88 mm (3.5 in) of precipitation, while in September, El Calafate receives about 59 mm (2.3 in). For more details, please visit our El Calafate Precipitation page.

The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow

Sunshine Hours in El Calafate

El Calafate can be enjoyed more throughout the sunniest month of December under a blue sky, with approximately 8.6 hours of sunshine daily. In contrast, the city experiences much darker days in June, with only 3.2 hours of sunlight per day.

Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.

Monthly hours of sunshine

Daily hours of sunshine

Humidity in El Calafate by Month

Best Time to Visit El Calafate

The climate in El Calafate shows seasonal variation throughout the year, creating different weather experiences for visitors. If we needed to point out one great month to visit, it would be November, a good month to visit with 62 mm (2.4 in) of rainfall.

Wondering where to travel based on your weather preferences? Our recommendation tool helps you find destinations with your ideal climate conditions. Use our weather planner to find your perfect destination.

Frequently asked questions about the climate in El Calafate

What is the best time to visit El Calafate?

January, February and December typically offer the most optimal weather in El Calafate. In contrast, April, May, June, July, August, September and October tend to have less optimal conditions.

What temperatures can I expect in El Calafate?

Daytime highs range from 3°C (37°F) in July to 16°C (61°F) in January. Nighttime lows range from -4°C (25°F) to 5°C (41°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.

How much rain does El Calafate get?

Annual rainfall is around 858 mm (34 in). April is the wettest month with 88 mm (3.5 in), while September is the driest with 59 mm (2.3 in).

How sunny is El Calafate?

El Calafate receives around 2,156 hours of sunshine per year. December is the sunniest month with 257 hours, while June is the cloudiest with just 97 hours. Overall, El Calafate enjoys abundant sunshine.

El Calafate 3-Day Forecast

El Calafate 3-Day Forecast

El Calafate on the map

El Calafate is highlighted — select any city to see its climate.

Popular this month

Where to go in July — average daytime high across popular destinations.

Bucket list

Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.