El Chaltén weather forecast for 5 days
El Chaltén weather forecast for 5 days. ℃ Average temperatures % Humidity, precipitation ️ Sunrise and sunset ️ Wind direction and speed
Climate Characteristics of El Chaltén
General Overview
El Chaltén features a cool temperate climate. The weather here is considered one of the most unpredictable and wild in the world. Exposed to powerful westerly winds from the Pacific and the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, the town experiences extreme shifts within minutes.
Trekking Season and Summer (December to February)
Summer is the most popular season but far from warm. Daytime temperatures range between 14°C and 18°C (57-64°F), dropping to 5°C (41°F) at night. Wind is the dominant element: Gusts exceeding 100 km/h are common in summer and can make trekking challenging. Clear sunny days can turn into rain or snowstorms in no time.
Winter Season (June to August)
Winter in El Chaltén is very cold, quiet, and snowy. Daytime temperatures range from 1°C to 4°C (34-39°F), while nighttime lows are consistently below 0°C (32°F). Most trails close or become hazardous due to snow and ice accumulation. Daylight hours are very short, and many local businesses close during this period.
Transition Seasons (March-May and September-November)
Autumn (April-May) is considered by many the most beautiful time, as winds calm and vegetation turns deep red and orange. Spring (October-November) features snowmelt and lengthening days, but it is also when the strongest winds begin to blow.
Weather in El Chaltén by Month
January
Peak trekking season. 18°C (64°F) daytime. Very long days allowing for extended hikes, but winds are very strong.
February
Similar to January (17°C/63°F daytime). Relatively comfortable weather and winds calm toward month's end.
March
Start of autumn. 15°C (59°F) daytime. Fall colors begin to appear and skies are often clearer.
April
The most beautiful month for photography. 11°C (52°F) daytime. Foliage at its peak, winds die down, and visibility is excellent.
May
Cold and wet (7°C/45°F daytime). First snow showers possible and days shorten significantly.
June
Start of winter. 4°C (39°F) daytime and freezing nights (-2°C/28°F). Mostly grey skies and snow is common.
July
The coldest month. 3°C (37°F) daytime and -3°C (27°F) at night. Minimal daylight hours and heavy snow on trails.
August
Still very cold (4°C/39°F daytime). Wintry weather but winds begin to strengthen.
September
Start of spring. 8°C (46°F) daytime. Unpredictable month with a mix of sun, rain, and snow.
October
Gradual warming (12°C/54°F daytime). Blooms begin but strong winds return.
November
Warmer spring (15°C/59°F daytime). Long days attracting the season's first hikers.
December
Start of summer. 17°C (63°F) daytime. Daylight hours at their peak (longest day of the year) and winds are very strong.