When the thermometer starts creeping over 25°C, some travelers dream of sunny beaches — but others, like me, start craving the opposite. I’d rather swap sweltering heat for crisp air, icy lakes, and maybe even a glacier or two. That’s why coolcations — vacations in cooler destinations — have become my go-to way to enjoy summer. And there’s no better place for a coolcation than Argentina.
Why Coolcations Are the New Summer Trend
The term “coolcation” has taken off in recent years as more travelers seek relief from rising global temperatures. Instead of chasing the sun, people are chasing the chill — booking trips to places where you can wear a jacket in July or enjoy a steaming cup of hot chocolate in January.
It’s not just about avoiding heatstroke; coolcations are also about the experiences that cooler climates offer: epic mountain hikes, serene lakes, wildlife spotting, and that fresh-air feeling you just can’t bottle. For me, the appeal is simple — when the heat makes you sluggish, cool air makes you feel alive.
Argentina’s Best Coolcation Destinations
If you think Argentina is only about tango in Buenos Aires and vineyards in Mendoza, think again. Head south and you’ll find a playground for cool-weather lovers.
Patagonia’s Wild Landscapes
Patagonia is the jewel of a coolcation in Argentina — vast, dramatic, and delightfully chilly even in the height of summer. A couple of years ago, I spent four weeks there in February and March, traveling by motorhome and camping my way across Argentina and Chile. Waking up to mountain silhouettes and the sound of wind rushing across empty plains is a feeling I can’t forget.
Glaciers and Snow in Summer
At Los Glaciares National Park, you can walk along the viewing platforms facing the mighty Perito Moreno Glacier. In summer, when much of the Northern Hemisphere is sweating, you can stand in a fleece jacket watching massive chunks of ice calve into turquoise waters.
Lake District Charm
Bariloche and the surrounding Lake District offer cool breezes, chocolate shops, and alpine scenery that feels a world away from humid cities.
Coolcation Activities in Argentina
Cool weather opens up an entirely different set of adventures.
Hiking in Fresh Mountain Air
From the trails around El Chaltén to the lenga forests of Tierra del Fuego, hiking in Patagonia means no crowds, no oppressive heat, and plenty of Instagram-worthy views.
Road-Tripping by Motorhome
Traveling Patagonia by motorhome gave me a level of freedom that hotels can’t match. We camped beside glacial lakes, parked under star-splashed skies, and cooked breakfast with mountains as our backdrop.
Camping Under Crisp, Starry Skies
Evenings in Patagonia often meant slipping into a warm sleeping bag while listening to the wind outside the tent — nature’s perfect lullaby.
Crossing Borders: Adding Chile to Your Coolcation Route
One of the perks of a Patagonian coolcation is how easily you can weave Chile into the trip. On my journey, I crossed into Chile multiple times, exploring fjords, national parks, and coastal towns — all under that same refreshing, cool air.
When to Go: Planning a Coolcation in Argentina
For the most comfortable coolcation, aim for Argentina’s summer months (December to March). While Buenos Aires bakes, Patagonia offers daytime temperatures between 10°C and 20°C — perfect for hiking, camping, and glacier-spotting.
Travel Tips for a Perfect Coolcation
Packing for Cold Weather in Summer
Layering is key — bring a windproof jacket, fleece layers, gloves, and a hat. Even in summer, Patagonian winds can bite.
Motorhome vs. Traditional Lodging
A motorhome offers unmatched flexibility and puts you closer to nature. But if you prefer comfort, you’ll find charming cabins and boutique lodges in towns like El Calafate and Ushuaia.
Why Argentina Beats the Northern Hemisphere for Coolcations
Many people think of coolcations as Nordic fjords or Canadian lakes. But Argentina offers something unique — opposite-season travel. While the Northern Hemisphere roasts in July and August, you can be sipping coffee in a down jacket beside an Argentine glacier.
Final Thoughts: Making Cool Memories in Cold Places
For me, avoiding heat isn’t just about comfort — it’s about energy, joy, and the freedom to explore without sweating through my shirt. Whether it’s waking up in a motorhome in Patagonia, crossing into Chile for a fjord cruise, or hiking toward a glacier in the middle of summer, coolcations in Argentina deliver a travel experience that’s fresh in every sense of the word.
If the idea of escaping the heat speaks to you, pack your layers, skip the beach, and head south. Coolcations in Argentina aren’t just a trend — they’re the future of summer travel.
EN 
FR