El Calafate Weather in May
May in El Calafate averages 6°C (43°F) during the day and -1°C (30°F) at night. Quite a bit of snow/rainfall is typical this month, with around 79 mm (3.1 in) on average. An umbrella is a good idea.
Rainfall in El Calafate in May
The climate data from previous years indicates about 8 days of snow/rain, averaging 79 mm (3.1 in) for the month. The rain this month tends to fall in heavier spells rather than light drizzle. When it rains, showers can be significant.
Temperature in El Calafate in May
If you're visiting El Calafate in May, expect highs of 6°C (43°F) and overnight lows around -1°C (30°F). Cold conditions persist throughout the day, so warm clothing is important from the moment you head outside. With overnight lows of -1°C (30°F), temperatures fall below freezing at night. An extra thick blanket can make a real difference if your accommodation runs cold.
Sunshine in El Calafate in May
With about 115 hours of sunshine, the area enjoys a nice balance of sun and overcast, creating a pleasant environment.If you're looking for dry conditions and comfortable temperatures, May may not be the ideal month to visit El Calafate. Our weather planner can help you explore destinations with more pleasant weather conditions.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit Argentina, check out our El Calafate's climate page.
El Calafate Temperature in May
Min Temperature
-1°C (30°F)
Max Temperature
6°C (43°F)
Chance of Rain
28%
Precipitation
79 mm (3.1 in)
Rainy days
8 days
Humidity
71%
Sunshine
115 hours
Percentage Sunshine
41%
Daily Historical Temperatures
45-year average (1977-2025)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in El Calafate typically drop from around 9°C (48°F) at the start of May to approximately 5°C (41°F) by the end. Nights are cold, with lows typically ranging from -1°C (30°F) to 2°C (36°F).
Average temperatures in May
Historical weather for El Calafate in May
Browse day-by-day weather records for El Calafate spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
El Calafate historical weather extremes in May
Based on 23 years of weather observations in El Calafate between 2003 and 2026, these are the recorded extremes.
- On May 8, 2006, temperatures climbed to 19°C (66°F), marking the warmest May day on record.
- The coldest May day was on May 29, 2012, with a maximum of -2°C (28°F).
- Nighttime temperatures dropped to -11°C (12°F) on May 6, 2024, marking the coldest May night on record.
Best Places in Argentina in May
Find out more about the weather in Argentina and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of Argentina in May →
perfect weather
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What to Wear in El Calafate in May
We recommend to layer up for chilly conditions in El Calafate in May. You could start with thermal underwear or a good base layer to keep your core warm on the cooler days this month. Maybe also add a sweater or fleece, and top it off with a windproof jacket. Rain is likely on several days, so bring a good rain jacket. Bring sunglasses since you'll have some sunny periods throughout the monthWhat To Do in El Calafate in May
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit Argentina, check out our El Calafate's climate page.
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity
See the full El Calafate climate overview or explore weather in Argentina.
