January through March are the nicest summer months in Patagonia, with an average temperature of 56 degrees Fahrenheit (13.3 celsius), which means El Chaltén fills up both with vacationing Argentines as well as international hikers and climbers looking to summit the nearby peaks while the weather is a bit warmer and clearer. El Chaltén is often extremely crowded during these months, and it’s essential to book accommodations at least 30 or more days in advance.
El Chaltén is also a popular destination for cross-country skiing in the winter (June through August), though the weather is extremely cold during these months, and traveling in the region is unpredictable.
In the off-season businesses cut their hours and take an extended lunch. During the winter, most close, except the essential ones.
Most businesses re-open in time for the town’s founding celebration (Oct 12), and remain open until Semana Santa or mid-April.
Low season: October-November, March-April (with the exception of Semana Santa).
High Season: December-February, Semana Santa; Winter: May-September.


Fiestas and Holidays in El Chaltén
Come to enjoy the celebration of El Chaltén’s founding on October 12, when the town erupts with live music, dancing, and barbeques.
Día Nacional de Trekking on February 4, and the Fiesta Nacional de Trekking during the first week in February offer competitions and games for men, women, and children, in a variety of outdoor events: rock-climbing, running marathons, bouldering, mountain-biking, horse-back riding, and concludes with a night-time music festival of local and regional artists.
On November 10, El Chaltén also celebrates its regional gaucho heritage on the national Día de la Tradición, the day on which José Hernández, author of the legendary cowboy story “Martín Fierro,” was born.