San Carlos de Bariloche

Climate Characteristics of Bariloche

General Overview

Bariloche features a cool Mediterranean/mountain climate. Located in the heart of the Andes in southern Argentina, its weather is fundamentally different from the tropical north—it is cool in summer and very cold and snowy in winter. The city is heavily influenced by strong winds from the Pacific Ocean, which bring significant precipitation during the winter months.

Winter and Ski Season (June to August)

Winter is Bariloche's busiest season due to its ski resorts. Daytime temperatures range between 5°C and 7°C (41-45°F), while nighttime temperatures frequently drop below 0°C (32°F). Snow is a very common sight in the city and surrounding mountains. This is also the wettest season, with most precipitation falling as snow or cold rain.

Summer and Warm Months (December to February)

Summer in Bariloche is a wonderful time for nature hikes, lake excursions, and trekking. Days are very long (sunset around 9:30 PM), sunny, and dry, with pleasant temperatures between 18°C and 22°C (64-72°F). However, nights remain very cool even in summer (around 7°C / 45°F), and strong winds are a common phenomenon that lowers the perceived temperature.

Transition Seasons (March-May and September-November)

Autumn in Bariloche (March-May) is particularly spectacular due to the fall foliage of Lenga trees, which paint the mountains in red and orange. Spring (September-November) is characterized by beautiful blooms and snowmelt, but the weather remains volatile with strong winds and rapid shifts between sun and rain.

Weather in Bariloche by Month

January

Peak of summer. Dry and sunny days (22°C/72°F) and cool nights (8°C/46°F). Perfect time for trekking.

February

Similar to January. Warm and pleasant during the day (21°C/70°F) and very dry. Winds are generally calmer.

March

Start of autumn. Cooler (19°C/66°F daytime). Foliage begins and days shorten.

April

Foliage at its peak. 14°C (57°F) daytime and cold nights (3°C/37°F). Rainfall begins to increase.

May

The wettest month. Cold and wet (9°C/48°F daytime). First snow may fall on the peaks.

June

Start of winter and peak rainfall. 7°C (45°F) daytime and nights around freezing. Snow is common.

July

The coldest month. 6°C (43°F) daytime and -2°C (28°F) at night. Peak ski season with plenty of snow.

August

Still very cold (7°C/45°F daytime). Snow continues to fall, and ski conditions are usually excellent.

September

Start of spring. Slight warming (10°C/50°F daytime) but winds strengthen significantly.

October

A volatile month. 13°C (55°F) daytime. Spectacular blooms, but sudden rain or snow showers are possible.

November

More pleasant (17°C/63°F daytime). Longer and sunnier days, but warm clothing is still needed for the evening.

December

Start of summer. 20°C (68°F) daytime. Skies clear up, and it is an excellent time for outdoor activities.