"La puerta de los glaciares | The gateway to the glaciers"
About:
Perito Moreno is a town in Santa Cruz Province, Argentina, founded in 1927. Named after Francisco Moreno, a prominent explorer and anthropologist, it was initially a hub for wool production. The town later diversified its economy with the development of tourism, particularly due to its proximity to the Perito Moreno Glacier and Los Glaciares National Park. Today, it remains a significant tourist destination while maintaining its traditional agricultural roots.
When to visit:
The best time to visit Perito Moreno in Santa Cruz, Argentina, is during the austral summer months, from November to March. This period offers the most favorable weather conditions, with warm temperatures and clear skies, ideal for experiencing the stunning beauty of the glacier. Additionally, this time of year coincides with the holiday season, allowing visitors to enjoy festive celebrations and events in the region. Travelers should plan their visit well in advance to secure accommodations and tours during this popular time.
When to avoid:
Traveling to Perito Moreno in Santa Cruz on a holiday is generally advised against during the winter months of June to August. This period is characterized by cold temperatures, frequent snowfall, and icy conditions, making travel and outdoor activities challenging. Additionally, some attractions and services may have limited operating hours or be closed altogether during the winter season. To fully enjoy the splendor of Perito Moreno and its surrounding areas, it is recommended to plan your visit during the more temperate months of November to March.
"Winter (June–August)"
Perito Moreno's coldest period is from June to August, with temperatures dropping to a chilly -2°C at night and rising to around 5°C during the day. Snowfall is common, blanketing the landscape in a pristine white. Rainfall is less frequent with an average of 20mm in July. Sunlight hours are minimal, with the sun rising around 9am and setting by 5pm. Cloud cover is substantial, often resulting in gray skies. An average day for a visitor involves bundling up in warm clothing, enjoying snow-covered vistas, and experiencing the stark winter beauty of the region.
"Summer (December–February)"
Perito Moreno in Santa Cruz, Argentina, experiences its warmest part of the year from December to February during the Southern Hemisphere's summer. The average high temperatures during these months range between 21°C to 24°C (70°F to 75°F) and the average lows range between 8°C to 10°C (46°F to 50°F).
Rainfall is relatively low during these months, with an average of 15mm to 20mm per month. The area is semi-arid, so humidity is generally low, making the heat more bearable. The region receives an average of 7 to 8 hours of sunlight per day during these months, offering plenty of daylight for outdoor activities.
Cloudiness varies, but generally, there are more clear days than cloudy ones. The sky is often a deep, clear blue, with occasional white, fluffy clouds.
A typical day for a visitor during this time would start off cool in the morning, gradually warming up towards the afternoon. The heat is dry and comfortable, not sticky or heavy. Evenings cool down again, often requiring a light jacket. The ample sunlight and generally clear skies make it a great time for outdoor exploration, including a visit to the famous Perito Moreno Glacier.
Language:
Spanish is the primary language spoken in Perito Moreno, Santa Cruz, Argentina. As it is in the Patagonia region, some residents may also speak indigenous languages such as Mapudungun. However, these are less common. English may also be understood in tourist areas.