December Weather in El Chalten, Argentina

Last updated: August 21, 2025

In El Chaltén, Argentina, December brings a dynamic blend of weather experiences, marked by a maximum temperature of 16°C (62°F), an average chill of 4°C (39°F), and nighttime dips to a crisp -7°C (20°F). The month is characterized by an abundant 259 mm (10.2 in) of precipitation, with 22 days of rain adding a refreshing layer to the landscape. With humidity levels reaching an impressive 88%, visitors can expect a vibrant atmosphere that enhances the natural beauty of this stunning Patagonia destination.

December Temperature in El Chalten

In December, El Chaltén, Argentina, begins to shed its wintry chill, as temperatures shift towards a more temperate climate. With a minimum of -7°C (20°F) and a comfortable average of 4°C (39°F), days become pleasantly mild and invite outdoor exploration. The city basks in a peak temperature of 16°C (62°F), signaling the arrival of summer and providing ideal conditions for hiking and experiencing the stunning natural landscapes. This transition marks a notable warming trend after the colder months, positioning December as an appealing time for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the breathtaking beauty of Patagonia.

December Weather in El Chalten: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates December temperature patterns in El Chalten, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In El Chalten, December typically has an average temperature of {2}°C ({3}°F), with highs reaching up to {4}°C ({5}°F) and lows dropping to around {6}°C ({7}°F).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec404239343025262730323538
Data source: Temperature data for El Chalten generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred temperature unit
The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

December Precipitation in El Chalten

In December, El Chaltén experiences a notable shift in precipitation patterns, receiving an average of 259 mm (10.2 in) over 22 days of rain, setting the stage for a moody yet breathtaking landscape. Compared to the earlier months, December's rainfall captures a balance between the wet peaks of April and May, while slightly trailing behind March. This steady precipitation, combined with cool temperatures, makes the area lush and vibrant, enhancing the beauty of the iconic mountains. With a consistent number of rainy days, December signals the onset of a dynamic season, inviting adventurers and nature enthusiasts to witness the stunning interplay between water, earth, and sky in this Patagonia gem.

December Precipitation Trends in El Chalten

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in El Chalten, with values for each month alongside December’s data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the amount of precipitation, providing insights into how December’s conditions compare to those of other months. In El Chalten, December typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec249193261313266241249270235243235259
Data source: Precipitation data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

December Humidity in El Chalten

In El Chaltén, Argentina, December experiences a humidity level of 88%, marking the start of a noticeable seasonal shift. As summer approaches, this figure reflects a slight decrease from the higher months of July and June, which peak at 94% and 93%, respectively. Over the span of the year, humidity trends suggest an increase during the cooler months, culminating in a steady rise from 89% in November to peak values in winter. However, as the temperatures rise in December, a gentle decline occurs, hinting at the refreshing warmth of summer. This ebb and flow creates a unique atmospheric character, making El Chaltén a captivating destination year-round, especially for those who revel in the lush landscapes shaped by these humidity patterns.

December Average Humidity in El Chalten

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in El Chalten, with December’s data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, helping you understand how conditions vary by season. In December, average humidity in El Chalten is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec88%90%89%91%92%93%94%93%91%90%89%89%
Data source: Humidity data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

December UV Index in El Chalten

In December, El Chalten experiences a UV Index of 16, placing it firmly in the extreme exposure category with a burn time of just 10 minutes. This high level of UV radiation is consistent with the preceding months of November and January, which also report extreme levels, suggesting a trend of heightened sun exposure during the southern hemisphere's summer season. As the year progresses from March's very high readings to the moderate levels seen in May and June, travelers should remain vigilant during these peak summer months. Understanding these fluctuations is essential for planning outdoor activities safely. For more details on the UV Index throughout the year, visit El Chalten UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in El Chalten for December

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for El Chalten in December, representing the highest UV radiation level. The UVI measures the intensity of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, indicating the potential risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues. In December, the maximum UV index in El Chalten typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec161310632247101716
Data source: El Chalten December UVI data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

December Sunshine in El Chalten

December in El Chaltén, Argentina, brings a radiant embrace of 211 hours of sunshine, a delightful prelude to the summer months. This trend of increasing sunlight is evident as the year draws to a close, showcasing a significant boost compared to the dimmer days of early winter. Following the gradual ascent to this vibrant zenith, November leads the way with 217 hours, a peak that captures the essence of the longer days ahead. As the natural light flourishes during these peak months, El Chaltén’s breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures are bathed in golden rays, inviting travelers to revel in the stunning beauty of Patagonia.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in El Chalten: December Highlighted

The December sunshine duration represents the total number of hours El Chalten experiences direct sunlight during the month of December, excluding cloudy or obstructed periods. This chart compares the sunshine duration of December with the other months of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec168h209h186h139h102h92h92h111h158h203h217h211h
Data source: El Chalten December Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in El Chalten During December

In December, El Chaltén, Argentina, enjoys a 35% chance of sunny weather, making it one of the brighter months of the year. As the year progresses, there's a noticeable trend towards increasing sunshine; while earlier months like April and May only boast a mere 15% and 17% chance respectively, this figure climbs steadily, reaching its peak in February with 36%. December stands out as a promising time for visitors eager to soak up the sun, particularly after the often cloudy winter months. This rising likelihood of sunnier spells signals a welcoming shift, signaling the onset of summer adventures against the stunning backdrop of Patagonia.

Percentage of Sunny Days in December in El Chalten

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in El Chalten throughout the year, with December highlighted. It highlights the variation in sunshine across each month and provides an overview of the typical frequency of sunny days, offering insights into how often El Chalten experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec23%36%26%15%17%20%12%14%23%23%28%35%
Data source: El Chalten December chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in El Chalten in December

December in El Chaltén, Argentina, showered in glorious 16 hours of daylight, marks the peak of the region's summer. As the calendar turns from November's 15 hours, the days stretch even longer, inviting outdoor adventurers to revel in the stunning Patagonian landscapes. This gradual increase in daylight, beginning in the spring with 15 hours in January, gradually descends through the fall months, reflecting a clear trend of diminishing light as the year progresses. By the time winter arrives in June, daylight dips to its lowest at just 8 hours. However, the cycle revives with the return of spring, as daylight gradually re-emerges, culminating in the lengthy and vibrant days of December—perfect for experiencing the rich natural beauty and adventure that El Chaltén has to offer!

Average Daylight Hours in El Chalten for December

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in El Chalten throughout the year, with December highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec15h 40m14h 10m12h 21m10h 32m9h8h 13m8h 38m10h 1m11h 46m13h 36m15h 16m16h 9m
Data source: El Chalten daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

December Winds in El Chalten

As December settles over El Chaltén, Argentina, the wind begins to whisper tales of the turning seasons. With an average wind speed of 2.3 m/s (5 mph), December mirrors the gentle breezes of the preceding months. The wind's strength remains consistent compared to the previous summer months, suggesting a tranquil atmosphere as the festive spirit fills the air. Notably, the calmness of winter descends in January, with wind speeds averaging around 2.4 m/s, only to dip slightly in the following months, highlighting a transition toward the stillness of late autumn. This subtle ebb and flow create an enchanting backdrop for both residents and visitors who marvel at the breathtaking landscapes amidst the soothing embrace of El Chaltén's December winds.

Average December Wind Speed in El Chalten

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in El Chalten, with values for each month shown alongside December's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It illustrates the average wind speed, offering insights into how December's wind conditions compare to the rest of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.42.22.32.01.82.02.32.12.12.52.32.3 m/s
Data source: El Chalten December wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How December Weather in El Chalten Compares to Other Months

Weather in El Chalten varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares December’s weather to other months in El Chalten, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.

December and January weather in El Chaltén share some similarities, but also exhibit notable differences. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -7°C (20°F) to a maximum of 16°C (62°F), with an average of 4°C (39°F). The month sees considerable precipitation at 259 mm (10.2 in) across 22 days, and humidity remains high at 88%. January, on the other hand, typically experiences slightly colder temperatures, with a minimum of -10°C (13°F) while maintaining a maximum of 16°C (61°F) and an average of 4°C (40°F). Precipitation slightly decreases to 249 mm (9.8 in) over 21 days, yet humidity remains consistent at 88%. For further details on January weather, you can visit El Chalten weather in January.

In December, the weather is characterized by a slightly milder average temperature of 4°C (39°F) compared to February's average of 6°C (42°F), although both months experience a minimum temperature of -7°C (20°F). While the maximum temperature in December can reach up to 16°C (62°F), February enjoys warmer highs, peaking at 20°C (69°F). Precipitation levels are higher in December, with 259 mm (10.2 in) spread over 22 days, compared to February's 192 mm (7.6 in) across 19 days. Humidity remains relatively consistent between the two months, standing at 88% in December and slightly increasing to 90% in February. For detailed insights on February weather, visit El Chalten weather in February.

In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -7°C (20°F) to a maximum of 16°C (62°F), with an average of 4°C (39°F). This month experiences around 259 mm (10.2 in) of precipitation over approximately 22 days, with a relatively high humidity of 88%. In contrast, March showcases slightly colder temperatures, with a minimum of -10°C (15°F) and a maximum of 14°C (57°F), while maintaining the same average of 4°C (39°F). The precipitation is slightly higher at 261 mm (10.3 in) but occurs over fewer days—only 20—that leads to an even higher humidity of 89%. For more specifics on what to expect, check out El Chalten weather in March.

In December, the weather tends to be milder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -7°C (20°F) to a maximum of 16°C (62°F), averaging around 4°C (39°F). However, it experiences a significant amount of precipitation at 259 mm (10.2 in) over 22 days and maintains relatively high humidity at 88%. In contrast, April brings cooler temperatures, with lows reaching -14°C (8°F) and highs peaking at 12°C (54°F), averaging just 1°C (34°F). Precipitation also increases in April to 313 mm (12.3 in), while humidity rises slightly to 91%, also spread over 22 days. For more details on April weather conditions, check El Chalten weather in April.

When comparing the weather in December and May, we see distinct differences in temperature and precipitation patterns. December boasts a milder climate, with average temperatures around 4°C (39°F) and maximums reaching 16°C (62°F), while May is significantly colder, with an average of -1°C (30°F) and a maximum of only 8°C (46°F). Both months experience substantial rainfall, with December receiving 259 mm (10.2 in) over 22 days and May slightly more at 266 mm (10.5 in) across 21 days. The humidity is relatively high in both months, with December at 88% and May at 92%. For a closer look at May's weather specifics, you can check El Chalten weather in May.

In December, the weather in El Chaltén features a more moderate temperature range, with minimum temperatures around -7°C (20°F) and a maximum reaching up to 16°C (62°F), creating an average of 4°C (39°F). The precipitation is relatively high at 259 mm (10.2 in), with rain occurring on about 22 days and humidity levels sitting at 88%.

In contrast, June presents much colder conditions, where temperatures can drop to a minimum of -16°C (4°F), with an average of -4°C (25°F) and a maximum temperature of only 4°C (40°F). Precipitation during this month is slightly less, at 241 mm (9.5 in), also occurring over 22 days, but with higher humidity levels at 93%.

For more details on June weather, visit El Chalten weather in June.

In December, the weather in El Chaltén is generally milder with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -7°C (20°F) to a maximum of 16°C (62°F), and an average of 4°C (39°F). The month sees significant precipitation, totaling 259 mm (10.2 in) over 22 days, with a relatively high humidity level of 88%. In contrast, July experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum of -14°C (6°F) and a maximum of 7°C (45°F), averaging at -4°C (26°F). Although July has slightly less overall precipitation at 248 mm (9.8 in) over the same number of days, the humidity increases to 94%. For more detailed insights on July weather, you can check El Chalten weather in July.

When comparing the weather in December and August, a noticeable difference emerges in temperature and conditions. December features a milder climate with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -7°C (20°F) to a maximum of 16°C (62°F), while August experiences colder temperatures, with lows of -15°C (6°F) and highs peaking at 6°C (43°F). Both months see significant precipitation, with December recording 259 mm (10.2 in) over 22 days and August slightly higher at 270 mm (10.6 in) across 24 days. Humidity levels are also high in both months, with December at 88% and August slightly higher at 93%. For more detailed information on August weather in El Chaltén, check out El Chalten weather in August.

December and September present distinct weather patterns, with December generally being milder. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -7°C (20°F) to a maximum of 16°C (62°F), while September sees colder temperatures, with a minimum of -12°C (10°F) and a maximum of 8°C (47°F). Precipitation levels are relatively similar, with December receiving 259 mm (10.2 in) over 22 days, compared to September's 235 mm (9.2 in) across the same number of days. Humidity is slightly higher in September at 90%, compared to December's 88%. For more insights into September's climate, check out El Chalten weather in September.

In comparing the weather between December and October, December tends to be milder, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -7°C (20°F) to a maximum of 16°C (62°F), as opposed to October's colder range of -16°C (4°F) to a maximum of 8°C (47°F). Precipitation levels are quite similar, with December receiving 259 mm (10.2 in) over 22 days, while October has slightly less at 243 mm (9.6 in) across 23 days. Humidity levels are also comparable, remaining high at 88% in December compared to 90% in October. For a more detailed look, you can refer to El Chalten weather in October.

December weather in El Chaltén features slightly milder temperatures compared to November, with an average of 4°C (39°F) and a maximum of 16°C (62°F), while November sees an average temperature of 2°C (35°F) and a maximum of 11°C (51°F). Despite these warmer temperatures, December also experiences higher precipitation, totaling 259 mm (10.2 in) over 22 days, in contrast to November's 235 mm (9.2 in) over 21 days. Humidity remains quite similar, with December at 88% and November at 89%. For a closer look at the specific conditions in November, visit El Chalten weather in November.

Compare El Chalten's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From December Weather in El Chalten

In December, El Chaltén experiences a notable shift in its weather patterns compared to other months. With temperatures rising significantly, the region warms up, showcasing maximums around 16°C and nurturing the spirit of summer. However, it still retains cooler elements, with average temperatures hovering around 4°C and notable dips at night. Precipitation is prevalent, with 22 days seeing rain, contributing to a humidity level of approximately 88%. This combination of warmer days and wet conditions makes December a unique time to visit, transforming the landscapes into vibrant, lush environments ideal for exploring. For a deeper understanding of what to expect throughout the year, check out the comprehensive guide on El Chalten Climate.