With its clamouring capital city bursting with opulent architecture and landscapes that defy the imagination, from rust-red canyons to turquoise glacier lakes – Argentina awaits. Dive right in with this Argentina travel guide.
Few countries in the world come close to the irresistible charm of Argentina. It’s an all-rounder where some stereotypes (umm… great food anyone) ring true, and others do not do it justice.
Football is basically a religion here, while food and drink are the alpha and omega of daily life. The birthplace of Maradona and Evita, where natural wonders come in every shape and size.Â
You’re in good hands as I’ve put together the ultimate guide for travelling to Argentina.Â
Here you’ll find everything you need, from the best time to visit, how to get there, what to do, suggested stays, and some itinerary ideas. And beyond all of that, the best practical tips to help you plan your Argentina trip like a pro.Â
From September to November, the southern hemisphere spring is generally the best time to visit most Argentine regions.
If you want to hike the Andean peaks, opt for summer (December – February). Visit in March for the wine harvests and in February for Carnival.
The vibrant cosmopolitan city of Buenos Aires bursts with iconic landmarks, and it’s the norm to end a day of sightseeing with either a tango show, loads to eat, or a hedonistic night out. Book your stay at Hotel Madero.
Next up is Córdoba, a province of captivating rolling hills and steep mountains with rocky rivers and lakes. The city of Cordoba offers endless exploration opportunities. Spend a night at the Azur Real Hotel.Â
The town of Bariloche sits between forests, roaring mountains, and extinct volcanoes. Its perch at the tip of the Lakes District is the perfect base to use for outdoor adventures. Stay at Nido del Condor Hotel & Spa.Â
Finally, opt for a stay in Mendoza. The city is also the country’s wine capital, offering an equally enjoyable experience to its other Argentine counterparts, above and beyond its natural allure. Book a stay at Gran Hotel Dakar.Â
Packing for your Argentina trip? Don’t forget…Â
There’s no getting around how important travel insurance is when you’re going abroad. AXA Travel Insurance is an ideal solution that offers coverage for numerous possible happenings that can derail your trip.
It’s affordable and keeps you covered in cases from lost luggage to trip cancellations and any medical emergencies.Â
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If you travel to Argentina, there’s no doubt that you should spend as much time tackling the many activities in Buenos Aires.
It’s easy to spend anything from three days to two weeks roaming around hotspots such as Plaza de Mayo, Palermo, and San Telmo.
Love wine? Well, you’re in luck, as Mendoza is a fantastic spot for vineyard hopping and heading out on tour. Indulge in its many world-class blends – don’t hesitate to book yourself a spot on a tasting or two.
Hands down a must for any travel to Argentina, the Patagonian city of El Calafate should be at the top of your to-do list.Â
The showstopper is, of course, touring the Perito Moreno Glacier. Beyond that, don’t miss the chance to hike in El Chaltén or a cruise to Lago Argentino.
Spend long enough vacationing in Argentina, and you’ll hear talks of the end of the Earth.Â
Ushuaia, the most southerly city in the world, is famous as the official starting point for Antarctic cruises.Â
Visit Martillo Island to see Ushuaia’s penguin colonies or explore Esmeralda Lagoon.
There’s no denying the sheer natural beauty of Argentina and all of it’s in full display throughout the Fitzroy range in El Chalten.Â
Mt. Fitzroy reigns supreme, and hiking the 11,171-foot high ridge is undoubtedly one of Argentina’s best things to do.
Nestled at the meeting point of three countries, Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay, Iguazu Falls is a massive, thunderous crash of water down 275 separate cascades.Â
It’s an extremely popular destination, so opting for a guided boat tour is the best way to see the magnificent showcase.
The Pampas of Argentina is an expansive region of flat and fertile lowlands close to Buenos Aires. But simply seeing this expanse is one thing.Â
Spending a night at an estancia where you can go horseback riding with the local Gauchos is breathtaking.
One of Argentina’s most striking nature reserves, Peninsula Valdés, offers premier whale-watching opportunities.Â
Heading out from June to December guarantees you the chance to see the southern right whales with their young.
Whether you’re an adventure traveller or prefer to seek out the food scene, there are many ways to get the best out of an Argentinian trip. Here are a few itinerary suggestions to help you plan.Â
Three weeks
Buenos Aires – El Calafate – El Chalten – Laguna De Los Tres & Laguna Cerro Torre – Perito Moreno Glacier – Puerto Natales (Chile) – Torres del Paine National Park (Chile) – Punta Arena (Chile)
Kicking off in the vibrant city of Buenos Aires, venture on to discover the wild and wondrous region of Patagonia.
10 Days
Buenos Aires – Mendoza – Barreal – Talampaya National Park – Tafà del Valle – Cafayate – Cachà – Salta
Explore the northern part of Argentina, starting in Buenos Aires, touring through the country’s vineyards, and ending in the natural splendor of Salta.
Four weeks
Buenos Aires – Puerto Iguazu – Iguazu Falls – Mendoza – Bariloche – El Chalten – Los Glaciares National Park – El Clafate – Perito Moreno Glacier – Ushuaia – Tierra del Fuego National Park – Beagle Channel – Buenos Aires
Although busy, this itinerary delivers blow after blow of the best of Argentina.
Three weeks
Buenos Aires – El Calafate – Perito Moreno Glacier – Ushuaia – Tierra del Fuego – Cape Horn – Drake Passage & King George Island – South Shetland Islands – Punta Arenas
Ready to head down south? Tackle the tundras of southern Argentina before setting off for Antarctica.
As you travel in Argentina, include these off-the-beaten-path destinations for a memorable trip:Â
The Cafayate Valley is any wine lover’s paradise playground. Going on a wine-tasting adventure here is a must, so ensure you visit some standouts such as Finca Las Nubes, Piattelli, and El Esteco.Â
The Valley of the Moon is a dramatic terrain that dates back to the Triassic period, where you’ll find landscapes of strange rock formations.
The entire park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site home to abundant wildlife.Â
Courtesy of the Rio Grande, the 96-mile Quebrada de Humahuaca is a deep valley of unique rock formations.
If you’re visiting Argentina and you want to see polychromatic-coloured mountains, dazzling salt flats, and lush forests, this is where to go.
Southwest of Buenos Aires lies the rural town of Espartillar, home to Argentina’s premier truffle route.
Indulge in some authentic truffle hunting from June to late August and treat yourself to some foodie fun in Pigüé.
Travelling to Argentina doesn’t need to cost you an arm and a leg if you include free tours and activities in your itinerary.
You can visit Recoleta Cemetery in Buenos Aires, the San Telmo flea market, Reserva Ecologica, and La Boca for free.
Of course, plenty of outdoor excursions to head out on don’t cost a cent, including hiking Canon del Atuel, Laguna Esmeralda, and the Seven Lakes.Â
Steak – Grilled cuts of meat over an open fire.
Dulce de Leche – Thick caramel from slowly reduced condensed milk.
Empanadas – Deep-fried or baked pastry with either sweet or savoury filling.
Choripán – Chorizo with chimichurri served between bread slices.
Maté – Traditional caffeine-rich herbal drink served hot or cold.
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