AracarWhen to Go
Best Time to Visit Aracar
Late spring to early autumn (Southern Hemisphere) offers the safest climbing windows; always check local conditions before ascent.
Southern summer
Dec-Mar · -5-10°C (summit), 5-20°C (base)
Longer daylight and more stable weather windows for high-altitude approaches.
Shoulder seasons
Oct-Nov, Apr-May · -10-10°C
Cooler with shorter weather windows; fewer crowds at base camps.
Winter
Jun-Aug · -20-0°C
Severe cold and snow - technical conditions worsen significantly.
Weather & Climate near Aracar
Climate
Aracar's climate is classified as Cold Desert - Cold Desert climate with cold summers (peaking in January) and freezing winters (coldest in June). Temperatures range from -12°C to 11°C. Very dry conditions with minimal rainfall with a pronounced dry season.
Air Quality:
AQI 77
Moderate
Temperature & Rainfall
Temperature Range
11°
Warmest Month
-12°
Coldest Month
Monthly Conditions
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | - | -3° - 11° | -1° | 23 mm | - | - | 6.2 m/s | - | - |
| February | - | -3° - 10° | -1° | 29 mm | - | - | 5.9 m/s | - | - |
| March | - | -4° - 10° | -2° | 13 mm | - | - | 5.8 m/s | - | - |
| April | - | -6° - 9° | -4° | 0 mm | - | - | 5.8 m/s | - | - |
| May | - | -9° - 7° | -7° | 1 mm | - | - | 6.4 m/s | - | - |
| June | - | -12° - 4° | -11° | 1 mm | - | - | 7.2 m/s | - | - |
| July | - | -12° - 5° | -11° | 1 mm | - | - | 7.0 m/s | - | - |
| August | - | -11° - 6° | -9° | 1 mm | - | - | 6.7 m/s | - | - |
| September | - | -9° - 8° | -7° | 1 mm | - | - | 6.6 m/s | - | - |
| October | - | -8° - 9° | -5° | 2 mm | - | - | 6.3 m/s | - | - |
| November | - | -5° - 10° | -3° | 5 mm | - | - | 6.5 m/s | - | - |
| December | - | -4° - 11° | -1° | 11 mm | - | - | 6.5 m/s | - | - |
Getting There & Around
How to Get to Aracar
Access generally begins from the Salta region - San Antonio de los Cobres or the town of Tolar Grande can be used as jumping-off points. Road access is by highland tracks; organized expeditions or local guides are strongly recommended.
Tips for Visiting Aracar
- If attempting a climb, acclimatize properly - Aracar lies at high altitude and weather can change rapidly.
- Local guides in Salta or San Antonio de los Cobres can organize transport and advise on the best approach routes and camping locations.
- Carry permits and be aware of protected areas; respect local llamero and puna grazing rights when crossing highland pastures.