Last updated: August 21, 2025
In December, El Calafate, Argentina experiences a blend of warm days and cool nights, with temperatures ranging from a pleasant maximum of 26°C (78°F) to a chilly minimum of 1°C (34°F). The average temperature hovers around 11°C (53°F), making it an inviting time for outdoor exploration. However, visitors should be prepared for occasional rain, as the region receives about 57 mm (2.2 in) of precipitation over approximately 12 rainy days throughout the month. The high humidity level of 82% can add to the brisk feel, so layering is recommended for comfort during this vibrant summer season in Patagonia.
In December, El Calafate, Argentina, experiences a delightful beginning to summer, with temperatures rising significantly compared to the cooler months. The minimum temperature hovers around 1°C (34°F), while the average climbs to a comfortable 11°C (53°F), peaking at a pleasant 26°C (78°F). This month marks a transition from the chilly grip of winter, with temperatures consistently trending upward since November, making December an ideal time for outdoor adventures and exploring the breathtaking landscapes. The warmth and longer daylight hours invite travelers to fully immerse themselves in El Calafate's stunning natural beauty, creating a vibrant atmosphere perfect for enjoying all that this enchanting region has to offer.
In December, El Calafate experiences a modest precipitation total of 57 mm (2.2 in), marking a gradual decline as the year comes to a close. With rain occurring on 12 days, this month continues the trend of relatively moderate wetness seen in the preceding months. Unlike the heavier rainfall of earlier autumn months, December’s precipitation shows a shift toward drier conditions, yet remains significant enough to maintain the region’s lush landscapes. As summer approaches, visitors can expect pleasant weather interspersed with refreshing showers that add to the dynamic beauty of this enchanting Patagonian locale.
As the year winds down in El Calafate, Argentina, December brings a humidity level of 82%, reflecting a slight dip from the peak of 90% observed in midwinter. This month is part of a gradual decline in humidity that begins after the intense dampness of July. Despite the cooler months showcasing higher humidity, December's level aligns closely with the humidity averages of earlier months, such as January and February, which hovered around 80% to 83%. Overall, the trend indicates a seasonal pattern where humidity steadily rises from late autumn through winter, before settling into more moderate figures as summer approaches.
In December, El Calafate, Argentina, experiences a UV Index of 12, categorizing it in the extreme exposure range, with a burn time of only 10 minutes. This month, like January and November, showcases the peak of UV intensity, emphasizing the need for sun protection for outdoor activities. Following the summer season, the trend displays a gradual decline in UV levels, as seen from February's very high index of 10 down to March’s high index of 7. As the year progresses, exposure risks diminish significantly, leading into the cooler months, where the UV Index drops to moderate and low levels by late autumn and winter. For those planning to visit during this vibrant summer month, it's crucial to stay vigilant against sun exposure. For more insights, check the detailed El Calafate UV Index.
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In December, El Calafate basks in a remarkable 362 hours of sunshine, making it one of the sunniest months of the year. This vibrant month stands out against the backdrop of the preceding months, reflecting a clear trend of increasing daylight as summer approaches in the Southern Hemisphere. Following November's 345 hours, December's sunshine steepens the upward trajectory, offering more opportunities for outdoor exploration and sightseeing. As temperatures rise and the days grow longer, the picturesque landscapes of Patagonia are illuminated brilliantly, inviting travelers to embrace the breathtaking natural beauty that this charming destination has to offer.
In El Calafate, Argentina, the likelihood of sunny weather in December stands at a refreshing 48%, making it a promising start to the summer season. This month is notable for its relatively high potential for sun, closely aligned with the averages seen in the preceding months of October and November, which boast 49% and 52% chances, respectively. As the year progresses, the tendency for sunshine sees a summer boost after the lower probabilities in the colder months, particularly from June to August, when chances dip below 30%. December, with its balanced sun potential, invites travelers to revel in the natural beauty and vibrant landscapes of the region, where the warmth begins to emerge after the wintry chill.
In El Calafate, Argentina, December marks a vibrant peak in daylight duration, with an impressive 16 hours of sunlight gracing the landscape. This extended daylight heralds the start of summer in the Southern Hemisphere, offering abundant opportunities for outdoor exploration and breathtaking views of the stunning Patagonian scenery. The trend leading up to December showcases a gradual increase in daylight from the shorter days of winter, where the sun hangs low in the sky for just 8 hours during the depths of May through July. As autumn fades away, daylight begins to stretch, reaching 14 hours in February and hitting its zenith in December. Following this, days will gradually shorten again, reflecting the cyclical nature of the seasons, but for now, December shines brightly with long, sun-filled days that invite adventure and discovery.
As December unfolds in El Calafate, Argentina, the wind begins to pick up, with average speeds reaching 3.0 m/s (7 mph), similar to the brisk October breeze. This month marks a transition, as the winds shift from the calmer conditions experienced earlier in the year. The gentle gusts of January through April, averaging just below 2 m/s, create a serene atmosphere, while the slight uptick in winds during the warmer months hints at the seasonal changes this picturesque region experiences. Notably, the winds remain fairly consistent through the summer, oscillating between 2.1 to 3.1 m/s over the subsequent months, inviting adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike to explore its stunning landscapes. December's winds serve as a reminder of the dynamic climate that characterizes this enchanting destination, setting the stage for the adventures that await.
Weather in El Calafate varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares December’s weather to other months in El Calafate, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In December, temperatures in El Calafate range from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a maximum of 26°C (78°F), with an average temperature of 11°C (53°F). The month experiences about 57 mm (2.2 in) of precipitation over 12 days, and humidity levels are around 82%. As January arrives, the weather remains quite similar, with minimum temperatures still at 1°C (34°F) and a slight decrease in maximum temperature to 25°C (77°F). Precipitation increases slightly to 61 mm (2.4 in) over 13 days, while humidity drops marginally to 80%. For a detailed overview of January weather, you can visit El Calafate weather in January.
In comparing the weather between December and February, both months exhibit mild temperatures, with December averaging 11°C (53°F) and February slightly warmer at 12°C (54°F). The maximum temperatures also show a gradual increase, reaching 26°C (78°F) in December and peaking at 28°C (83°F) in February. While December sees less precipitation, totaling 57 mm (2.2 in) over 12 days, February experiences a higher rainfall of 77 mm (3.0 in) under similar conditions. Humidity is consistent, hovering around 82% in December and increasing slightly to 83% in February. For a more detailed look at February's weather, check out El Calafate weather in February.
December and March exhibit notably different weather patterns, despite similar humidity levels of 82%. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a maximum of 26°C (78°F), offering an average of 11°C (53°F). Precipitation is moderate, measuring 57 mm (2.2 in) over 12 days. In contrast, March sees slightly cooler temperatures with a minimum of -1°C (31°F) and a maximum of 22°C (71°F), averaging 10°C (50°F). The month experiences heavier rainfall, totaling 80 mm (3.2 in) over 15 days. For a detailed look at the weather specifics, visit El Calafate weather in March.
When comparing the weather in December and April, notable differences emerge. December typically has a milder temperature range with a minimum of 1°C (34°F) and an average of 11°C (53°F), peaking at 26°C (78°F). In contrast, April experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -2°C (28°F) and an average of 7°C (44°F), reaching a maximum of only 19°C (66°F). Additionally, precipitation levels in April are higher, with 91 mm (3.6 in) over 15 days, compared to December's 57 mm (2.2 in) over 12 days. Humidity also increases slightly in April, averaging 86% compared to December's 82%. For more details on April weather, you can visit El Calafate weather in April.
In comparing the weather of December and May, December enjoys milder temperatures, with a minimum of 1°C (34°F) and a maximum reaching up to 26°C (78°F). In contrast, May presents cooler conditions, featuring a minimum temperature of -5°C (23°F) and a maximum of only 14°C (57°F). Additionally, May experiences more precipitation, totaling 75 mm (3.0 in) over 14 days, compared to December's 57 mm (2.2 in) over 12 days. Humidity levels are slightly higher in May at 87%, compared to December's 82%. For more detailed information about the weather in May, you can check El Calafate weather in May.
December and June deliver contrasting weather experiences. In December, temperatures range from a chilly 1°C (34°F) to a pleasant 26°C (78°F), averaging around 11°C (53°F). The precipitation during this month totals 57 mm (2.2 in) over 12 days, coupled with a relatively high humidity of 82%. On the other hand, June sees far colder temperatures, with a minimum of -9°C (15°F), an average of 0°C (33°F), and a maximum of just 10°C (51°F). Slightly less precipitation at 54 mm (2.1 in) also falls over the same number of days, but humidity increases to 89%. For more details on the weather in June, visit El Calafate weather in June.
When comparing December and July weather, it’s clear that December is significantly warmer, with average temperatures ranging from 1°C (34°F) at night to a comfortable 26°C (78°F) during the day. In contrast, July is much colder, characterized by temperatures from a chilly -8°C (18°F) to a maximum of only 8°C (47°F). Both months experience similar levels of precipitation, with December receiving 57 mm (2.2 in) over 12 days and July slightly more at 59 mm (2.3 in) over 13 days. Additionally, humidity levels remain high, with December at 82% and July at 90%, adding to the winter's chill. For more specific details on July weather, you can check El Calafate weather in July.
December's weather is notably warmer than that of August, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a pleasant maximum of 26°C (78°F), averaging around 11°C (53°F). In contrast, August experiences much cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -7°C (20°F) and a maximum of 13°C (55°F), resulting in an average temperature of just 1°C (35°F). Additionally, December sees 57 mm (2.2 in) of precipitation over approximately 12 days, while August is slightly wetter, with 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain across 13 days. Humidity levels are also higher in August at 87%, compared to December's 82%. For a detailed look at weather conditions, check out El Calafate weather in August.
In comparing the weather of December and September, December tends to be milder overall, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a maximum of 26°C (78°F), while September experiences cooler conditions, with temperatures between -6°C (22°F) and a maximum of 15°C (59°F). Precipitation levels are relatively similar, with December receiving 57 mm (2.2 in) over 12 days and September slightly higher at 66 mm (2.6 in) over 11 days. Humidity remains consistent across both months, averaging 82% in December and 84% in September, making both months feel quite humid. For more specific insights on September weather in the region, you can refer to El Calafate weather in September.
When comparing the weather in December and October, it's clear that December experiences milder temperatures with a minimum of 1°C (34°F) and an average of 11°C (53°F), peaking at 26°C (78°F). In contrast, October is chillier, starting at a minimum of -7°C (20°F), with an average of 6°C (42°F) and a maximum of 18°C (65°F). Precipitation is slightly higher in October, totaling 76 mm (3.0 in) over 14 days, while December sees 57 mm (2.2 in) across 12 days, contributing to a similar humidity level of around 82-83%. For more detailed information on October weather, you can visit El Calafate weather in October.
The weather in December exhibits a warmer trend compared to November, with minimum temperatures rising from -2°C (29°F) in November to 1°C (34°F) in December. The average temperature also increases from 9°C (48°F) in November to 11°C (53°F) in December, while the maximum temperature reaches up to 26°C (78°F), significantly warmer than November’s peak of 21°C (71°F). Despite December experiencing slightly lower precipitation at 57 mm (2.2 in) over 12 days compared to November's 61 mm (2.4 in) over 11 days, it maintains a higher humidity level of 82%, just a notch above November’s 81%. For a detailed look at November's weather, you can visit El Calafate weather in November.
As the festive season unfolds, December in El Calafate marks a striking transition from the cooler months of spring to pleasantly warm summer days. With maximum temperatures reaching 26°C (78°F), visitors can relish in outdoor adventures amidst stunning landscapes. However, the month is not without its share of precipitation, boasting an average of 12 rainy days, making it one of the wetter months of the year. Despite the humidity hovering around 82%, the blend of sun and refreshing rains creates a unique atmosphere that enhances the natural beauty of the region. For a deeper look into the climatic nuances of this enchanting destination, check out our full guide on El Calafate Climate.