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The 25 Best Places to Visit in Argentina: For Hikers, Sightseers and Wildlife-Lovers Alike

By Author Steph Dyson

Posted on Last updated: 24th January 2024

Argentina, one of the popular gateways to South America, plays host to some of the southern hemisphere’s most dramatic landscapes: think vast, millennial-old glaciers, historic bodies of water, and the weather-chiseled ridge of the Andes Mountains separating it from its neighbor, Chile. 

But Argentina isn’t just a place defined by its natural magnificence.

It’s also home to one of the most bewitching capital cities – an unmissable destination for foodies and football lovers alike – as well as curious Welsh settlements, chaotic colonies of animals, and sunkissed vineyards producing world-class wines.

I’ve had the fortune to explore practically the entire country, traveling slowly along the length and breadth of Argentina as part of multiple trips spanning a couple of months in total.

Off the back of that research, here are what I consider to be the best places to visit in Argentina. 

Click to navigate this article:

Northern Argentina

1. track rare wildlife in the world’s second-largest wetlands, the esteros del iberá .

Home to the world’s second-largest wetland in the world, the Esteros del Iberá (Iberá Wetlands), are a remote, pristine, and hugely important ecosystem in Argentina.

Comprising a 13,000-km 2 nature reserve in the north-central province of Corrientes, this protected area is one of the most important freshwater reservoirs in South America and houses an abundance of wildlife. 

Over 320 bird species are resident here, making it a top destination for birders, while capybara, maned wolves, giant anteaters and even a thriving population of jaguar – reintroduced in 2021 by conservationists – make the Esteros del Iberá one of the best places in Argentina to spot wildlife.

Situated a three-hour journey from the nearest airport, getting here is part of the adventure and explains why it remains such a remarkably untouched and unvisited part of Argentina. 

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2. Appreciate one of the world’s natural wonders, Iguazu Falls

Step aside, Niagara Falls: there’s a much more impressive set of waterfalls awaiting in Argentina. Comprising 275 cascades and spanning an area 2.7 kilometers wide, Iguazu Falls are a remarkable 195 meters high – dwarfing Niagara, which is a measly half the size. 

Though you cannot see all of the falls that make up this vast fury of water from the Argentine side – you’ll need to cross into the Brazilian side to tick off them all – visiting Parque Nacional Iguazú (Iguazu National Park) in Argentina will still grant you spellbinding views of these dramatic falls.

Hike through the dense jungle of the national park – where toucan and brown capuchin monkeys might be glimpsed – to the Garganta del Diablo (the Devil’s Throat), where a platform perched above this fall gives you utterly unforgettable views as the water cascades down with a deafening roar. 

3. Road trip to the land of “white gold”, Salinas Grandes

Neighboring Bolivia might take the crown for the world’s largest salt flats , but Salinas Grandes in the Argentina puna remains a dreamlike destination and a worthy place to visit in Argentina. 

Argentina economy update

The Argentine economy is a huge mess at the moment, with inflation expected to hit 200% this year. Using Argentine pesos can therefore be a nightmare – and mean you lose a lot of money. The blue dollar (an unofficial exchange rate that gives you a better conversion than the official rate) is around, but if you want to avoid carrying lots of cash, you can now pay using your credit card and get an exchange rate similar to the blue dollar rate. You must choose to pay in Argentine pesos (not USD!) to secure this rate.

Both Mastercard and Visa give you what is called the MEP rate, which is almost as good as the blue dollar rate. Mastercard will charge you the official rate but refund you the money a few days later; Visa will charge you the MEP rate from the beginning.

If you do want to have some Argentine pesos for paying in cash (which I highly recommend as you will need them for some restaurants and attractions), it’s best to use Western Union, whereby you send cash to yourself using the Western Union app and then withdraw it in Argentine pesos from one of their branches in Argentina. Bear in mind, those in El Calafate and Ushuaia can run dry of notes, so it can be easiest to do this in Buenos Aires.

Additionally, you can bring USD (unmarked and untorn hundred dollar bills), which you can exchange at “cuevas” (unofficial exchange houses). These will be able to give you the blue dollar rate and any hotel owner will be able to tell you where your nearest one is. Souvenir shops in most parts of the country will be able to give you pesos in exchange for dollar bills – although they might not give you the best rate.

Avoid cash machines. Currently, the maximum withdrawal is the equivalent of $15 USD in Argentine pesos and it will cost you $10 USD in fees.

Spanning more than 500 kilometers and with salt melting away into the distance as far as the eye can see, this curious, high-altitude landscape lends itself to comical perspective photography. Visit by hiring a vehicle or taking a tour from Purmamarca, Jujuy, or Salta; en route, you’ll catch dazzling views of splendid lagoons and walnut plantations. 

4. Photograph the rainbow hues of the Quebrada de Humahuaca

Argentina’s northwestern provinces are packed with otherworldly sights and the Quebrada de Humahuaca (Humahuaca Canyon) is no exception. This 155-kilometer-long mountain valley is famous for its vibrantly colored rock formations as well as for its historic, Quechua-speaking villages. 

To the south, the  Cerro de Los Siete Colores (Hill of Seven Colours) lives up to its name with a magical rainbow of hues caused by the mineral content of the soil and towers over the colonial village of Purmamarca.

Adobe houses rub shoulders with the centuries-old Iglesia de Santa Rosa, while a daily market on the town square makes this an excellent place to purchase sweaters and blankets wove from llama wool. 

5. Discover the enchanted village of Iruya

Still within Quebrada de Humahuaca, but miles away from the typical tourist trail, the enchanting village of Iruya lies within the sheer walls of the canyon, with many of its adobe houses built up into the valley sides.

The setting is dramatic; clamber up to the Mirador de la Cruz to appreciate the full magic of this village or head to Mirador del Condor to catch sight of Andean condors, which typically take to the sky around 3pm.

6. Appreciate colonial architecture in Córdoba

As the country’s second-largest city, Córdoba is an easy pick when it comes to choosing the best places to visit in Argentina. You can feel both the pre-Hispanic and colonial influences in much of this pretty city, which houses some of the best-preserved colonial buildings in the whole of Argentina. 

Crowned the Cultural Capital of the Americas in 2006, Córdoba thrives on its blend of old and new. With three universities in the city, it’s no wonder there’s plenty to do here.

Browse one of its four municipal galleries – covering everything from fine art to contemporary work – and spend an evening in the Güemes neighborhood, where independent craft stores and crowded bars attract students and visitors alike.

7. Tour Talampaya National Park in a 4WD

The dusty stone pillars of Parque Nacional Talampaya (Tamlampaya National Park), chiseled away by millennia of rain and wind count as some of the most surreal rock formations you’ll find in Argentina.

Lying in the eastern province of La Rioja, this desert landscape is best explored by 4WD and you must take a guide; visit Talampaya’s official website to arrange a tour.

Most head directly to the Cañón de Talampaya, where guanaco, rhea, and condors can be sighted, as well as its focal point, the Cajon de Shimpa, a deep gorge with towering, 80-meter-high walls that are only seven meters wide at its base.

8. Learn about Andean cultures in Salta

Much of Argentina’s northwestern regions have more in common with Bolivia than they do Argentina. Salta is a fine example. While its handsome buildings and ornate church, the Iglesia San Francisco, belie its colonial origins, this city is packed with museums dedicated to the pre-Columbian cultures that came before. 

One of the best is the Museo de Arequeología de Alta Montaña , which specializes in the Inca and their child sacrifices – with the bodies of three such children discovered on a nearby mountain peak now, controversially, on display in this museum. 

There’s so much to see and do in the city, and our comprehensive guide to the best things to do in Salta will see you adding it to your Argentinian itinerary in no time.

Northeastern Argentina

9. get familiar with argentine literature in san antonio de areco.

Located about an hour and a half northwest of Buenos Aires, the town of San Antonio de Areco is the perfect day trip from the capital. Known as the National Capital of Tradition, it’s rich in the history and culture of the Argentine countryside and blessed with a wealth of museums, including the Museo Gauchesco Ricardo Güiraldes .

Dedicated to the author Ricardo Güiraldes, it also covers the culture of the local gauchos, the name for the cowboys who are both a folk symbol and a typical feature of pampas life in Argentina.  

10. Drink, dance, and dine in Buenos Aires

Most visitors to Buenos Aires pass a few days in its dazzling capital, home to Parisian architecture and Latin passions.

Unsurprisingly, Buenos Aires is home to many of Argentina’s top and most well-known tourist attractions , and it’s remiss to spend time in this city without dancing in a tango hall ( milongas ), dining like a king in a local steak house ( asado ), or making a pilgrimage to the Cementerio de la Recoleta to track down Eva Perón’s grave . 

In the south, the working-class neighborhood of La Boca has transformed into a prime tourist destination.

Wander through the open-air museum of El Caminito, where tenement shacks have been transformed with a lick of brightly colored paint, before catching a beautiful game at La Bombonera, where legendary team Boca Juniors play. 

For a truly porteño experience, don’t miss the Feria de San Telmo, a weekly Sunday market hosted in one of the city’s prettiest neighborhoods. Craft stalls and tables groaning beneath the weight of countless antiques await, while you can even catch music performances and impromptu tango dancing, too. 

11. Surf the waves of Mar del Plata

Mar del Plata, a city 415 kilometers south of Buenos Aires, is a popular escape for porteños during the hot, summer months. With its beachside hotels and 47 kilometers of beaches, it’s got everything for a spot of relaxation – although, during summer, you’ll find it’s got too many other visitors, as well.

However, surfers have found their Mecca, particularly as the best surfing conditions are found between April and October.

Head to Playa Grande for the most consistent breaks and, if you’re new to surfing, sign up with one of the many surf schools to guide you in choosing the location and practicing your moves before you hit the water. 

Northwestern Argentina

12. summit the lofty peak of volcán aconcagua.

The highest mountain outside of the Himalayas, Aconcagua invites adventure seekers and adrenaline junkies looking to summit one of the “Seven Summits” – the highest mountains in each continent.

Just a few thousand people try to reach its 6,960-metre peak every year and even the easiest route – the route up the Northwest Ridge – isn’t technical but still poses a real challenge due to the altitude. 

All hikers must apply for a permit in nearby Mendoza and travel with experienced trekkers or, better still, a guide, is highly recommended. 

13. Go wine tasting in viticulture capital Mendoza

With its vine-slung valleys fed by a clever system of irrigation and backdrop of snowy Andean peaks, Mendoza is itself a remarkable place to visit in Argentina. However, oenophiles from across the globe head here in order to sample the region’s most famous export: malbec. 

Local wineries abound and those in nearby Maipú can be easily visited either on a wine tour directly from Mendoza or using public transport. Head further afield to the wineries of the Valle de Uco or Luján de Cuyo to encounter those at the forefront of Argentine wine production.

Southern Argentina (Patagonia)

14. conquer the summit of volcán lanín.

Lying in the far west along the ridged backbone of the Andes Mountains, Parque Nacional Lanín (Lanín National Park) is another of Argentina’s most spectacular protected areas .

If you’re keen to summit a volcano but don’t quite have the expertise – of the lungs – for Aconcagua in the north of the country, the perfectly conical Volcán Lanín might be the perfect alternative. 

Set within forests of southern beech typical to Patagonia and with other easier hikes available, the route to the 3,776-metre summit of Volcán Lanín normally follows the north face and takes two days.

While it remains a challenging activity and one for which it’s highly recommended to use the services of a local guide, hiking to the top of this mountain – and absorbing the incredible panoramic views of lakes and mountains from its peak – will be utterly unforgettable. 

15. Drive the Ruta de los Siete Lagos

Ruta 40, the highway that slices down through Argentina from the very northern tip of the country to the far south, is considered one of Patagonia’s finest road trips . But the section dubbed Ruta de los Siete Lagos (Route of the Seven Lakes) is perhaps the most picturesque of all. 

Connecting San Martín de los Andes in the north with Villa La Angostura 108 kilometers south, this drive takes you along the banks of seven shimmering lakes, with the scenery tied to the seasons.

Drive it in summer (December through February) for landscapes vibrant green or travel here in autumn (March and April) when the trees turn burnt umber. 

16. Go hiking and biking from Swiss-inspired Bariloche

Sitting at the heart of the Argentine Lakes Region and within the mountain and lake-scattered landscapes of Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi (Nahuel Huapi National Park), Bariloche (sometimes known as San Carlos de Bariloche) attracts visitors in their droves.

Summer is peak season for visitors, who head to this town on the banks of Lago Nahuel Huapi to enjoy everything this capital of adventure has to offer. 

Whether you’re keen to mountain bike on lakeside gravel paths or head up into the snow-dappled peaks of Cerro Catedral (which becomes the region’s most visited ski destination in winter), Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi has it all.

Best of all, Bariloche, with its Swiss-inspired architecture, surprisingly good craft beer, and even more surprisingly fantastic chocolate, make this a town where you won’t regret whiling away a good few days. Be aware that Bariloche can be packed in the summer months between December and February.

17. Go wildlife watching in Península Valdés

Considered one of the best places to see wildlife in Argentina (and South America), the Península Valdés has been recognized by UNESCO for its abundance of wildlife, which includes everything from sea lions and elephant seals to Magellanic penguins.

But it’s the fact that the waters off this peninsular are the habitat for the largest breeding population of southern right whales in the world is what makes this region so unique. 

Between June and mid-December is when these mammals arrive to reproduce and the best way to catch sight of them is as part of a boat tour , which can be arranged in nearby Puerto Madryn or on the peninsula itself at Puerto Pirámides. Between mid-February and mid-April, orcas can also be seen at high tide on the beaches snatching sea lions from the shore.

18. Meet Welsh settlers in Gaiman

You’ll likely be surprised to learn that Argentina has the highest number of Welsh speakers outside of the United Kingdom. It’s all down to the Welsh settlements found in the Patagonian steppe, where 153 hardy arrivals from Europe landed on the shores of the Chubert Province in 1865. 

Now over a hundred years later, these remain the epicentre of Welsh-Argentine culture. Tours from Trelew (itself an attractive but useful base) take you to quintessentially Welsh Gaiman where you can indulge in a very Welsh activity – afternoon tea – in one of the traditional teahouses dotted around the town.  

19. Discover the 10,000-year-old cave paintings at the Cueva de las Manos

Tucked into the recesses of a large cave lie one of Argentina’s most significant prehistoric discoveries. Now known as the Cueva de las Manos – the Cave of Hands – this site is covered by around 800 handprints, which are thoughts to have been marked on the wall around 7370 BCE. 

You can take a tour from Perito Moreno or Los Antiguos or drive yourself here with a hire car ; one-hour tours ($12 USD) depart from the entrance to the site. 

20. Stretch your legs in Los Glaciares National Park

Those who crave adventure should add Los Glaciares National Park to their Argentine itinerary. Situated deep into Argentine Patagonia near the Chilean border, this national park stretches north to south along the eastern edge of the incredible hielo sur , the Southern Patagonian Ice Field.

In fact, a quarter of this national park sleeps beneath ice, with much of it high above ground level and caught in the granite spires of the mountains that dominate this terrain. It’s one of the most beautiful places in Patagonia and Argentina as a whole.

The most iconic is the 3,405-metre Monte Fitz Roy, beneath which sits the glacier-meltwaters of Laguna de los Tres – and to which hikers make their pilgrimage along a challenging one-day trek. This hike departs from the nearby town of El Chaltén, which is considered the national trekking capital.

Other paths abound for nature lovers and trekkers alike, including the 70-kilometre Huemul Circuit, while visitors will fall swiftly in love with the park’s glorious blend of high-altitude mountains and low-elevation steppe, that’s punctuated by freshwater lakes and rich in wildlife, including Andean condors, rare huemul deer and even pumas. 

21. Stay at a traditional Patagonian ranch

Sheep ranching in the late 19th century saw both Argentine and Chilean Patagonia become some of the most important sheep farming areas in the world. Ranches built to house the farmers are some of the only remaining relics of this boom and you can even stay in one of these historic, and often remote, homes. 

One of the best is Estancia La Estela , a family-run ranch that sits on the shores of Lago Viedma equidistant between El Calafate and El Chalten and offers horseback riding excursions, as well as traditional lamb barbecues. 

22. Catch calving icebergs at the Perito Moreno Glacier

Glacier El Perito Moreno is Argentina’s most famous glacier , sitting within the mountainous terrain of Parque Nacional Los Glaciares (Los Glaciares National Park) in Patagonia and one of the reasons why Argentina is among the best countries in South America for dazzling natural landmarks .

Situated just a short bus journey from the town of El Calafate, this ice giant kneels in the grey-blue water of Lago Argentino – one of Argentina’s most stunning lakes – covers an incredible 25,000 hectares and calves egg-blue icebergs at a remarkable frequency from its frigid tongue. 

The best way to catch this remarkable phenomenon is from the boardwalks situated a few hundred metres from its snout; late afternoon after the ice has warmed during the day is the most likely time to see it happening.

23. Go to the ends of the earth in Ushuaia

Right at the very tip of the South American continent sits Argentina’s southernmost city: Ushuaia.

Described by many as at the very ends of the earth, Ushuaia has a magical quality, aided no end by its spellbinding scenery: situated at the edges of Tierra del Fuego island, it’s hemmed in by the Beagle Channel in the south and snow-heavy mountains in the north. 

Founded as a penal colony, Ushuaia has a curious history. There’s no better place to learn about it than at the vast and fascinating Museo Maritimo y Museo del Presidio , which is set in the city’s former prison. 

Alternatively, head for the White Continent from here to go to the true ends of the earth: expedition cruises to Antarctica leave from here, many of which visit Cape Horn along the way. 

Need some advice for choosing an Antarctica cruise? I highly recommend Swoop Antarctica, whose staff have extensive, first-hand experience of sailing to Antarctica and, because they sell cruises for all the well-known companies, can give you handy, impartial advice for choosing the one that best suits you.

Check out their cruises to the Antarctic Peninsula – for a chance to set foot on mainland Antarctica and explore some of the most beautiful parts of the continent – and to South Georgia and the Falklands – for a wildlife bonanza.

We’ve also explored when’s the best time to visit Antarctica – which I highly recommend reading before you start considering a trip. The Antarctica travel season is short and the experiences in different months vary wildly.

24. Hike in the superlative scenery of Tierra del Fuego National Park

West of Ushuaia lies another of Patagonia’s finest national parks. Packed with day hikes that take in stupendous views across dense forests of southern beech and onto the watery depths of the Beagle Channel, Parque Nacional Tierra del Fuego (Tierra del Fuego National Park) is one of the must-visit destinations in Argentine Patagonia. 

You’ll find plenty of birdlife, including condors and albatrosses, as well as the Southern Fuegian Railway.

Better known as the Train to the End of the World , this 500 mm gauge steam railway was originally used to transport prisoners working to chop timber and now takes you deep into the national park on the final seven kilometers of track. It’s a bit of a tourist trap, but if you love your railways, then it’s a must-do activity. 

25. Visit Tierra del Fuego’s first estancia

Founded in 1886 by Anglican missionary Thomas Bridges, Estancia Harberton takes the title of the island’s first ranch. Now operated by Bridges’ descendants, and with the excellent Museo Acatushún that showcases the area’s marine mammals and bird species at its heart, it’s a worthwhile place for a day trip. 

Boat tours from Ushuaia take you via the Beagle Channel, the 240-km strait separating Tierra del Fuego from Chile, and where colonies of fur seals, Magellanic penguins, and cormorants can be spotted. Keep your eyes peeled for whales and dolphins in the water. 

FAQs about Argentina

What is the most beautiful part of argentina.

Patagonia is arguably the most beautiful part of Argentina. Some would not agree, as much of it is wild and barren, but it’s these qualities that equally make Patagonia so enchanting. In this vast region, you’ll find towering glaciers, vast, unspoiled lakes, and endemic wildlife, with renting a car and taking a road trip around Patagonia , as well as hiking in the region’s national parks , two of the best ways to dive into the region’s beauty. 

Is Argentina safe to visit?

Argentina is ranked 68th in the 2021 Global Peace index and third among the safest South American countries . With that said, it’s best to keep some safety considerations in mind. For instance, avoid dark alleys at night and don’t wear anything flashy when wandering the city’s streets. Read our guide to safety in Buenos Aires for more information.

Is Argentina expensive to visit?

On average, the cost of living in Argentina is lower than in the US or Western Europe, meaning Argentina is affordable for travelers. However, flights can be expensive (considerably more so than in neighboring Chile ), with long-distance bus travel often a much more affordable way to cover large distances. Staying on a budget is not impossible here; cooking your own meals, not dining out often, and using public transportation can help trim down your expenses. Learn more about traveling to Patagonia on a budget .

Is English widely spoken in Argentina?

Many people in Argentina speak English, although only a small percentage speak it fluently. In cities familiar with tourism, such as Buenos Aires and Mendoza, you can get by with English as most restaurants provide English menus and museums have English-speaking tour guides. This may not be the case in a small town deep in Patagonia. In that case, we recommend learning basic Spanish so you’ll be able to ask for directions and prices, hire a local guide, or join a group of experienced travelers.

17 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Argentina

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Jul 26, 2022

Argentina's diverse geography is one of the country's main attractions. It encompasses everything from harsh deserts to humid jungles, and long ocean beaches to the soaring Andes. Stretching from the subtropical north to the subantarctic regions of beautiful Patagonia in the south, Argentina's cultural, artistic, and architectural heritage is just as diverse, drawing upon influences from around the world.

With its wonderful barrios , including colorful arts neighborhoods such as La Boca, old-world Recoleta, and trendy districts like Palermo, Buenos Aires sometimes feels more like Europe than Latin America. This lively capital city is the best place to begin sightseeing (it's also the best place to learn to tango, the most iconic of Argentinian dances).

In addition to its many cultural attractions, the other big draws – and for some tourists, its greatest appeal – are the country's natural wonders, including the breathtaking Iguazú Falls, the world's largest group of waterfalls.

To make sure you find all the best places to visit and things to do, use this handy list of the top tourist attractions in Argentina.

1. Iguazú Falls

2. perito moreno glacier, 3. recoleta, la boca, and tango in buenos aires, 4. tierra del fuego national park, 5. puerto madryn and the valdés peninsula, 6. ushuaia: the end of the world, 7. bariloche and the route of the seven lakes, 9. historic córdoba cathedral, 10. beaches of mar del plata, 11. cafayate, 12. southern fuegian railway, 13. san ignacio mini ruins, 14. quebrada de humahuaca, 15. teatro colón, 16. aconcagua mountain, 17. salinas grandes.

The stunning Iguazú Falls lie along Argentina's border with Brazil, with Iguazu National Park on the Argentinian side and Iguaçu National Park on the Brazilian side. Protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site , these huge waterfalls are undoubtedly one of the most spectacular sights in South America.

Visitors can get quite close to these thundering falls thanks to a network of easily accessible walkways and viewing platforms designed to provide the best possible views, including some at the bottom of the falls, an area known as the Devil's Throat.

Iguazu is, in fact, made up of between 150 to 300 individual falls along its nearly three-kilometer edge, a number that changes depending on the season, varying in height between 60 to 82 meters and each as spectacular as the next. Served by an international airport in Argentina (and one in neighboring Brazil), it's relatively easy to visit, particularly if flying from Buenos Aires.

The main hub for tourists visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Patagonia's Los Glaciares National Park , the small town of El Calafate offers plenty of accommodation options and other amenities for visitors.

It's here that most visitors join excursions to see the park's popular glaciers, most notably the stunning Perito Moreno Glacier, a massive 30-kilometer-long ice formation (and the world's third-largest freshwater reserve) just 78 kilometers from the town center.

Named after a 19th-century explorer, it's just a two-hour trip from El Calafate to the glacier's large visitor center, and from here just a short walk to the glacier. For those wanting to climb the glacier, ice trekking tours are available that range from an hour's walk over the ice formation to longer five-hour excursions.

Another important feature of Los Glaciares National Park is the 3,359-meter-tall Monte Fitz Roy , a stunningly beautiful mountain straddling the border with Chile that is reputably harder to climb than Everest.

Official site: www.losglaciares.com/en/index.html

One of South America's most attractive cities (also one of the largest), Buenos Aires is often the first glimpse of Argentina most visitors will have before heading off to popular tourist destinations such as Patagonia.

But the smart ones will linger here and take in the many delightful museums and art galleries housed in the splendid old colonial buildings spread across the city's districts or barrios .

Be sure to visit La Boca , Buenos Aires' most colorful neighborhood and home to the quirky Caminito Street Museum , a splendid pedestrian zone and open-air museum popular for its brightly painted houses, amusing sculptures, cafés, music, and tango dancers in the streets.

Fashionable Recoleta is another must and is where you'll find the Recoleta Cemetery , with its elaborate mausoleums containing the remains of such famous Argentinians as Eva (Evita) Perón, along with numerous public gardens, museums, art galleries, cafés, and boutique shops.

Other districts to explore if time permits are Palermo and Belgrano with their wide boulevards and palatial mansions, and, in the downtown core, the delightful Plaza de Mayo .

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Buenos Aires

The 156,000-acre Tierra del Fuego National Park extends all the way from Beagle Channel to the Chilean Border and northwards to Lago Kami. It's a paradise for hikers, with trails for all experience levels.

Using the town of Ushuaia as a base, adventurers head out onto the park's hiking trails or along the coastline to explore its dramatic scenery, which includes everything from tall waterfalls, dense forests, and mountains, to beautiful glacier-fed lakes such as Roca and Fagnano.

One of the most popular routes is Senda Costera , a coastal path to Lake Roca from Ensenada Bay that offers a chance to see a rich diversity of wildlife including Andean condors.

Those who prefer to see the sights in comfort can take a ride on the superb Southern Fuegian Railway , an elegant antique steam train through the park to Cañadon de Toro.

The city of Puerto Madryn lies on the shores of Golfo Nuevo in one of the most sheltered places on the Patagonian coast. Founded by Welsh settlers in 1886, the city's deep-water port and abundant nature reserves make it one of the most popular cruise destinations in Argentina.

Its rugged coastline attracts water sports enthusiasts, particularly windsurfers who enjoy defying the strong Patagonian winds. Nature lovers find plenty of things to do on the Valdez Peninsula, an important nature reserve listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its diverse wildlife.

Guided tours of the reserve are a must, and visitors normally leave having seen everything from right whales (here to mate and calve), along with elephant seals, sea lions, and orcas. It's also an important breeding ground for migratory shorebirds, in particular Magellanic penguins.

Learn more about the environment of this beautiful coast at the Natural Science and Oceanographic Museum , set in a beautiful heritage building overlooking the harbor. The museum features displays of Patagonian flora and fauna, including a whale skeleton and a fascinating exhibit about giant squids.

At the southern end of Argentina, Patagonia is famous for its spectacular landscapes: a dramatic mix of the Andes and long stretches of plains and plateaus. Most adventures here start in Ushuaia , the world's southernmost city.

Established as a penal colony in the early 20th century and now a popular jumping-off point for trips to Antarctica or around Cape Horn, this town on Beagle Channel is surrounded by a unique landscape of mountains, sea, glaciers, and woods on the edge of the Tierra del Fuego National Park, with its spectacular scenery and diverse flora and fauna.

Popular places to visit include the San Juan de Salvamento Lighthouse - also known as the End of the World Lighthouse - built in 1884 on the Isla de los Estados, and the End of the World Museum . Here, you'll find exhibits relating to the region's natural history, aboriginal life, and early penal colonies.

The Maritime Museum of Ushuaia is housed in the town's notorious former military prison, is worth visiting for its many maritime artifacts and scale models of famous ships such as Darwin's Beagle .

Named for Darwin's ship, the Beagle Channel cuts through the heart of the national park, and you can board a boat in Ushuaia to cruise through this historic waterway.

Usually simply referred to as Bariloche, San Carlos de Bariloche is a lively city set in the midst of Nahuel Huapi National Park , and Patagonia's northern Lake District.

Skiers, especially those from the Northern Hemisphere seeking snow in the height of the northern summer, flock to Bariloche for nearby Cerro Catedral , the tallest of its peaks and a popular ski resort.

One of the largest ski resorts in South America, Cerro Catedral includes more than 100 kilometers of ski terrain and is particularly popular for its stunning views over Nahuel Huapi Lake, in the middle of the national park.

Bariloche is a center for active adventure and for exploring the park's mountains, lakes, waterfalls, forests, glaciers, and extinct volcanos. Although the region is rich in opportunities for hiking, rafting, cycling, and climbing, a driving circuit known as the Route of the Seven Lakes takes tourists to the alpine lakes of Nahuel Huapi, Espejo, Escondido, Falkner, Villarino, Correntoso, and Machónico .

Undoubtedly one of Argentina's most beautiful cities, filled with Art Deco architecture, Mendoza is as popular with outdoor enthusiasts in winter as it is in summer. When the snow flies, skiers from across South America experience some of the Andes' best ski slopes at the popular resorts of Las Leñas, renowned for its steep terrain, and Los Penitentes , just 25 kilometers from the border with Chile.

In the summer, these same areas are popular among hikers and climbers, many aiming for the top of the 6,960-meter-tall Aconcagua mountain. Other outdoor activities include whitewater rafting and trail riding, with some riding stables offering overnight adventures with camping under the stars.

Also famous for its olive oil production, Mendoza has many other attractions, including a number of museums and annual festivals, as well as a bustling Central Market (Mercado Central) where locals buy produce, meat, and fish, and where visitors can find food stalls and restaurants.

In central Argentina, a five-hour drive from Buenos Aires, Córdoba is the country's second-largest city and is often used as a stopover on trips into the Andes. Most of the city's finest old buildings date back to the early colonial period of the 16th century.

Explore the historical center of the city around Plaza San Martin , now a UNESCO World Heritage Site . Here, you'll find the beautiful Cathedral of Córdoba , a splendid mix of Baroque and Neoclassical styles that can trace its roots back to the original Roman Catholic church built here in 1580.

Highlights of the structure, much of which dates from the 18th century, include an ornate interior with exquisite 20th-century frescoes and murals painted by leading Argentinian artist Emilio Caraffa, a native of Córdoba.

Note also the unique silver altar and an important collection of gold votive offerings. Below, the crypts are the final resting place of a number of important Argentinians.

One of the favorite things to do in Argentina is learn to tango , and you can take classes at the Cabildo, a cultural center, and mix with locals who go there to dance.

Some of the best beaches in South America are in the relatively modern city of Mar del Plata, on the Atlantic coast 400 kilometers from Buenos Aires. Here, the beautiful beaches sprawl for more than eight kilometers of coast that's also marked by windswept dunes and dramatic cliffs.

Nearest Mar del Plata's modern cruise ship ports are the Chica and Grande beaches (they're also popular among sea lions, many of which hang out in the waters around the city's fishing wharves).

Once a playground for the rich, the city is a mix of fine old mansions, which mingle with newer resorts along the city's splendid waterfront with its numerous parks, squares, and gardens.

Mar del Plata is home to the excellent Juan Manuel Fangio Museum , dedicated to one of the world's greatest Formula One drivers and containing more than 100 cars and 500 trophies. A highlight is an exhibit dedicated to the first automobile, an 1886 Daimler.

One of the most popular things to do for families is a visit to the Mar del Plata Aquarium with its many marine attractions, including dolphin and seal shows, penguins, tortoises, and flamingos.

Located in the northwest of the country in the province of Salta, Cafayate is a small town of just over 12,000 residents. Although charming and with a few attractions worth visiting – including an archeological museum featuring objects from the local Indigenous people – most people arriving here are on their way to the Quebrada de Cafayate (or Quebrada de las Conchas).

An area known for its towering reddish rock formations, the quebrada offers one of the most stunning drives in South America on Route 68. More than 60 kilometers of paved roads cut through colorful sandstone, offering plenty of stops to discover narrow canyons, natural amphitheaters, towers of sandstone and clay, and the shores of the Rio de las Conchas.

Better known as the " Train of the End of the World ," this gauge steam railway is considered the southernmost railway in the world. Although it once provided a less happy service of connecting Ushuaia's penal colony with nearby cities, today it offers a beautiful tourist ride into the Tierra del Fuego National Park.

The train departs on new tracks (the original ones can still be seen nearby) from the End of the World station, riding alongside a thickly forested gorge and beautiful peaks all around. In winter, everything is covered in snow here; in other seasons, you'll appreciate the greens and reds that take over the valley throughout the season. The train makes one stop, so travelers can snap some photos at a local waterfall before continuing on into the national park.

First-class passengers will get a chance to taste some local specialties while onboard, including alfajores , biscuits filled with thick caramel, and empanadas , a fried or baked pastry filled with cheese or meat.

Back in the 1600s, during the Spanish colonial period, a number of Jesuit missions were founded in the northern province of Misiones, near the border with Brazil. At one point, over 3,000 Indigenous people lived in the mission, but as the Jesuits left the country, the buildings fell into ruins. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site , the San Ignacio Mini are the largest and still best-preserved mission ruins in the country.

The original mission – built in red-brown stone in a style known as Guaraní Baroque -– was massive and included a monastery, a cabildo (administrative office), a cemetery, and a number of living spaces. The mission's church, which measured 74 meters long by 24 meters wide, is the best-preserved part of the ruins.

A small on-site museum tells the story of the mission, and there's a scale model of the original San Ignacio Mini.

Quebrada (which literally translates to "broken") is a name used in Argentina to refer to deep ravines. And the 155-kilometer-long Quebrada de Humahuaca in the northwest of the country is a perfect example of a beautiful ravine with a wild river running through it in summer (the river dries up in winter).

A UNESCO World Heritage Site , this arid valley was once part of the Inca Empire and an important trade route. Today, most people arriving here come for its beauty – a mix of reds, pinks, and oranges that look almost painted on the hills around.

The tiny town of Iruya (only 1,000 people live here), not far from the quebrada, is a must-see as well. Built directly into the mountainside at an elevation of over 2,700 meters, it offers stunning views over the mountains and fertile valleys all around it. In town, the dirt streets, old houses, and colorful celebrations that incorporate Indigenous details offer great photo opportunities.

Buenos Aires' main opera house is considered one of the best opera theaters in the world because of its amazing acoustics. Built in 1908 to replace an earlier theater located in the same place, Teatro Colón was once a very popular destination for some of the biggest international opera companies and a favorite of Luciano Pavarotti. Rudolf Nureyev, Maria Callas, Plácido Domingo, and Julio Bocca have all performed here.

As beautiful as the building itself is on the outside, the inside of the theater is even more stunning. It offers just under 2,500 seats and it's completely decorated in reds and golds, with touches of both Italian and French architecture. Artist and production designer Raúl Soldi painted the theater's stunning cupola.

The theater is also famous for its outstanding costume and scenic departments.

As the highest mountain in the Southern Hemisphere , Aconcagua is certainly impressive. The peak has a summit elevation of 6,961 meters and is part of the Andes, close to the border with Chile. For climbers, Aconcagua has special meaning, as it's one of the Seven Summits , the ultimate climbing list that includes the highest mountains in each continent.

The mountain falls within the limits of the Aconcagua Provincial Park, a protected area that offers a number of activities for outdoor lovers, including hiking and skiing. For those who are up for something a bit more challenging, the Horcones-Confluencia trail takes hikers up to the basecamp on the route up to the summit. It's a 14-kilometer-long trail with an elevation of 538 meters.

Laguna Horcones, a stunning blue lake fed by glaciers, is another popular attraction within the park.

Sitting 180 meters above sea level, these stunning salt flats (the third largest in the world) cover an area of over 4,700 square kilometers, stretching over two provinces. This is a solitary and desolated, but stunningly beautiful area, past deserted routes, walnut tree plantations, lagoons, red sandstone mountains, and the odd herd of adorable vicuñas.

As this is an active salt flats, you'll likely find workers if you arrive during the daytime. If you can manage some Spanish, they'll happily show you around and explain how the salt is washed and scrapped. Otherwise, you can simply walk around to admire their beauty, which extends as far as the eye can see.

Most visitors start their trip at the nearby town of Purmamarca, where just over 2,000 residents make their living either working in the salt flats or selling handicrafts to tourists in the town market. Tours to the salt flats also leave from here, including trips to the nearby Cerro de los Siete Colores (The Hill of Seven Colors).

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People come to Argentina for romance. Those in love with nature head to Patagonia for the unabated quiet of trekking around blueish-emerald lakes, surrounded by the majesty of hanging glaciers and mountains. Others, in love with the past, travel here to sit in the cafes of Borges or dance tango in a milonga. Those who love the wine come to bike around the hills of Mendoza, and vineyard hop, sipping on Malbec along the way. The country has a charm unlike anywhere else. While many of its residents are known for being blunt and unafraid of debate, Argentines are also just as likely to share a mate (a loose-leaf highly caffeinated tea) with you and invite you to their family’s asado (barbeque). Somehow being here will feel foreign and familiar all at once, and the intrigue of that will likely make you return, again and again.

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit : Go in the spring (September through November) for lots of sun and balmy temps. This season is the perfect time for hiking and whale watching, or on the flip side, exploring Argentine cities by foot without heavy humidity.
• Language: Spanish.
• Currency: Argentine peso, though U.S. dollars, Euros, or Brazilian reales are sometimes accepted at businesses that tourists frequent.
• Getting Around: In Buenos Aires, the SUBE (subway), is quick and cheap, when there aren’t delays. In other cities, light rails or public buses will be the best option. In the countryside, self-driving or booking a remis (charter car) is the norm.
• Travel Tip: Being late is culturally acceptable. If you are meeting an Argentine for lunch or coffee, plan on showing up about 10 minutes past the agreed upon time. If you are going to a house party (not a dinner) at night, it’s common to arrive at least an hour late.

Things to Do

Hike Argentina’s rugged mountains, cheer on a team at one of its soccer games, dance its sensuous tango, and write your memoirs in its cafes. Ski or snowboard down Patagonia's peaks, see penguins in Tierra del Fuego, or stand on top of the magnificent waterfalls of Iguazu. Explore its petrified forests or traverse the wilderness of the Gran Chaco. If you prefer indoor activities, check out a circus show, go to a concert at a cultural center, or go thrift store shopping, all in Buenos Aires.

• Go to a national park for trekking, birding, or swimming. Los Glaciares is one of the most famed for its views of Mounts Torre and Fitz Roy, in addition to the moving Perito Moreno glacier.
• Watch a soccer game. Whether you go to a match or watch one in a bar with a riled-up crowd, you’ll have good time, this is the land of Maradona after all.
• See a tango show. In Buenos Aires, you can see several for free in Plaza Dorrego in San Telmo, or on Caminito in La Boca. However, if you want a show over dinner and a tango class before, try one of the companies that specialize in this, like Piazzolla Tango .

Find more city-specific activities with our articles on things to do in Buenos Aires , things to do in Mendoza, and things to do in Bariloche .

What to Eat and Drink

Argentina is known for meat, wine, and mate. To have the most traditional Argentine experience of meat eating, go to an asado (the Argentine version of a barbecue). Types of asados differ throughout the country, while Porteños will stick to steaks and choripán, those in Patagonia do asado al palo, lamb grilled on an iron cross. Argentines have their own version of pizza and take great pride in their ice cream, a product of its large Italian diaspora. There are many vegan and vegetarian options in the cities, but the countryside might be difficult for those wanting well-balanced meals without meat.

While micro-breweries have popped up in recent years throughout the country, wine and mate are the go-to drinks. (It’s harder to purchase bad wine than good wine here.) Low-cost brands like Bravo and Alma Mora are decent and can be purchased at grocery stores for the peso equivalent of just a few dollars. Try the spectrum, from the super pricey to the super cheap to find your favorite while here. Mate, a loose-leaf highly caffeinated tea, can be purchased at any grocery store. You will need to have a bombilla (filtered straw) and a mate gourd on hand to drink it (also available for purchase at grocery stores). Check with your host or hotel though to see if they provide these to guests for free. If you’re feeling friendly and walk by a group of Argentines drinking mate, simply ask them for a sip and they will mostly likely share it with you.

Explore our articles on dishes to try in Argentina , restaurants in Buenos Aires , and food in Buenos Aires .

Where to Stay

Argentina is the eighth-largest country in the world and the second-largest in South America.   Where you stay will depend greatly on what you want to do and what time constraints you have. If you will be here for several months and want to see different parts of the country, base yourself out of Buenos Aires as you can fly mostly anywhere domestically from here and have several airport and bus carrier options. Those focused on hiking in Patagonia should stay in El Chalten if they want a small village vibe and serious trekking, while those wanting some trekking but also more amenities, like delicious chocolate shops, should go to Bariloche . However, if wine is your thing, plunk yourself down in the hills of Mendoza.

Explore the top places to visit in Argentina and our recommendations on the best hotels in Buenos Aires.

Getting There

By far, the most popular airport in Argentina is Buenos Aires’ Ezeiza Airport. If you fly into Argentina , you will most likely fly into Ezeiza, however, that’s not the only way to travel if you’re already in South America. Many long-distance buses come from Chile, Paraguay, Brazil, and Bolivia. For those coming from Uruguay, the ferry is the most popular way to reach Argentina, via the shores of Buenos Aires.

• Ministro Pistarini International Airport (Ezeiza) : best for flying internationally in general.
• Jorge Newbery (Aeroparque) Airport: second largest airport in Buenos Aires, good for flying from Uruguay.
• Malvinas Argentinas Ushuaia International Airport: a very small international airport, good to fly into for cruises to Antarctica.

Culture and Customs

Argentines don’t like people referring to themselves as Americans. Instead, they use the term “ estadounidense ,” literally translated to “United Statesian.” If you refer to yourself as an American, you might get a short lecture in Spanish, especially if you find yourself outside tourist circles here. To avoid this, simply say you are from the United States (" Soy de Los Estados Unidos ") when asked about your nationality.

People eat dinner very late here, generally around 10 p.m. (and consequently, many things do not open until 10 a.m. in the morning). In Buenos Aires, a typical timeline of a night out might be dinner at 10 p.m., bar at 12 a.m., and arrive at the club at 3 a.m. until 6 a.m. Also, do not expect to easily find spicy food here, like you would in other Latin American countries. Argentines typically avoid spice. While restaurants with spicy food do exist, it is usually the ones selling foreign and non-Argentine cuisine.

You do not have to tip all the time in Argentina, but a 10 percent tip will be very much appreciated if you do. If you go to a fancy restaurant, hire a tour guide, or participate in an activity primarily tourist-oriented, you should definitely tip 10 percent.

Money Saving Tips

• Exchange money for the blue market rate (the unofficial rate), as you will sometimes get double your money.   Bring dollars or euros with you to exchange in denominations of 50 and up. You will get a better rate here than in your home country and money changers give an even higher rate for larger denominations.
• Wire yourself money via Western Union. You will get about the same rate as the blue market rate, and it is more secure than going to a blue market money exchange house.
• In Patagonia, hitchhike. It’s very common and great for getting between mountain towns or to rock climbing spots.
• Camp when you can. If no campsites are in an area, check with a hostel to see if they will let you pitch your tent on the property.
• Sometimes it will be about the same price or cheaper to take a budget flight compared to a long-distance bus.
• Buy a SUBE card to ride the subway or take buses. These cards can be used in Buenos Aires and throughout the rest of the country.
• Go to museums on Wednesday when they are free.
• Check the websites of different centros culturales (cultural centers) for free concerts, art exhibits, and classes of all kinds.
• Water from the tap is okay to drink. Most restaurants will give you a glass of tap water if you ask for it. You don’t have to buy a bottle of water unless of course, you want it the Argentine way: " con gas " (aka sparkling).
• You can make a filling and cheap meal out of several empanadas or a choripan (sausage sandwich). Also look for " comida por peso " restaurants, where you can pay for take-out food by its weight.

World Atlas. " The Largest Countries in South America ." May 31, 2018

Blue Dollar. " Informal Rate ."

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Argentina Travel Guide

Looking for an in-depth Argentina travel guide ?

Then you’re in the right place!

Start researching a trip to Argentina and you’ll quickly realize that this South American nation is one of the coolest destinations on the planet.

From its incredibly diverse environment to its vibrant cities to its delicious cuisine, there’s so much to explore in Argentina. So much, in fact, that you might not know where to start. Whether you want to tango the night away in a Buenos Aires nightclub or explore the glaciers of Patagonia, we’re here to help you plan the ultimate Argentinian adventure.

Outdoor adventurers from around the world flock to Argentina to revel in the country’s natural beauty. The country has a robust network of national parks, offering visitors the opportunity to explore Argentina’s deserts, mountains, glaciers, lakes, and more.

One of the most famous parks is Los Glaciares National Park, located southwest of Santa Cruz Provence. The park is home to many glaciers making up portions of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, including Perito Moreno Glacier, one of the largest in the world.

Can’t stand the cold? Head to the Argentine Lake District, a gorgeous area full of picturesque mountains, greenery and, of course, lakes. Whether you’re hiking the hills or exploring nearby towns like Bariloche , you’re bound to have a relaxing time.

And if you’re a night owl, head to San Juan in west-central Argentina for some exceptional stargazing. At El Leoncito National Park, you can marvel at the stars under a clear night sky or get a closer look at the park’s observatory, which hosts tons of stargazing events throughout the year.

Argentina is also home to one of the best wine regions in Latin America; in fact, the country is actually the fifth biggest producer of wine in the world behind Italy.

Mendoza is widely considered Argentina’s “wine country” and has plenty to entertain any kind of wine enthusiast. The area is home to tons of wineries offering tastings, tours, and more to give you a behind-the-scenes look at the country’s wine industry.

Beyond the vineyards, the area is absolutely beautiful. It’s worth renting a bike for a self-guided tour of the region’s lush hills and farms.

And of course, you’ll find great wine wherever you go in Argentina, as well as delicious traditional dishes like empanadas , asado, provoleta, and more.

Keep reading to dive into resources that will help you with planning a trip to Argentina in South America.

Note: This ultimate guide to Argentina travel contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Argentina Map

Use this Argentina travel map to begin planning your trip to this incredible country!

Click here for an interactive Google Map version of the above graphic.

Argentina Travel Tips

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Buenos Aires Travel Guide

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Mendoza Travel Guide

These Mendoza guides will help you have a memorable Argentina vacation!

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Patagonia Travel Guide

Plan an epic trip to Patagonia, one of the best Argentina travel destinations !

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Best Argentina Tours

Explore local culture with an Argentina tour guide through these unique excursions:

• Buenos Aires Graffiti & Street Art Tour
• Helicopter Ride: Overflight & Landing in the Andes Mountains A30 from Ushuaia
• Full-Day Tour to the Perito Moreno Glacier including Boat Safari from El Calafate
• Guided Hike at the Penguin Colony in Ushuaia
• Full Day Tour to Torres del Paine from El Calafate

Argentina Hotels

Click here to browse the best Argentina travel hotels!

Prefer self-contained stays?

Click here to check out unique local rentals !

You can also use this map to search for local stays:

Renting A Car In Argentina

Many visitors to Argentina choose to rent a car to really explore all that the country has to offer. If you’re doing the same, I highly recommend using Discover Cars to quickly compare your rental options.

Argentina Travel Insurance

It doesn’t matter if you’re traveling solo or with a group on an Argentina tour. When visiting Argentina — or any other country in the world — make sure to get travel insurance to protect your health and safety.

In my opinion, the best travel medical insurance for travelers is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country).

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

With coverage, you’ll have peace of mind as you embark on your Argentina travel itinerary.

Click my referral link here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

Argentina Travel Guide FAQ

Below, find answers to frequently asked questions about traveling in Argentina .

Q: What are the best places to visit in Argentina?

Argentina’s natural wonders are some of its biggest attractions. The country is home to 33 national parks that show off the nation’s diverse landscape and ecology.

Iguazu Falls , located on the border between Argentina and Brazil, draws in thousands of travelers every year, all coming to marvel at the sheer power of the fourth widest waterfall in the world. Walkways and viewing platforms make it easy to get up close to the falls for a truly spectacular view.

In Patagonia , you’ll find L os Glaciares National Park , a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring giant ice formations you’ll have to see to believe. You can explore the Perito Moreno Glacier, the third-largest freshwater reserve in the world, on an ice-trekking tour, or just enjoy the view from the visitor center.

Just off the Chilean border in Southern Argentina, you’ll find Tierra del Fuego National Park featuring 156,000 acres of stunning landscapes and bucket list-worthy hiking trails .

Not much of an outdoor adventurer? Enjoy the park from the comfort of an antique steam train on the Southern Fuegian Railway.

Argentina’s cities are also huge draws for travelers looking to engage with the country’s history, culture, and modern lifestyle.

The capital city of Buenos Aires is home to gorgeous European architecture and one of the most vibrant cultural scenes in South America.

The Museo Nacional de Belles Artes houses over 500 years of international art, including works from Picasso, Goya, and Manet.

Take a deep dive into Argentinian history at El Zajon de Granados , a maze-like complex featuring 500 years of ancient architecture.

And of course you can’t miss Buenos Aires’ nightlife; this is the birthplace of the tango, after all!

In central Argentina, Cordoba features a mix of old colonial architecture and modern buildings, as well as a lively culture thanks to the city’s many colleges and universities.

The Jesuit Block is one of the city’s biggest draws and features one of the best-preserved European settlements in the area as well as the University of Cordoba, the fourth-oldest university in the Americas.

Museo de la Memoria also shows a darker side of the country’s history, preserving the memories of those lost in the “Dirty Wars” of the 1970s and 80s.

Argentina is also an amazing destination for foodies and wine enthusiasts.

Travelers flock to Argentina’s main wine-producing region, Mendoza , every year to tour the local vineyards and wineries, particularly during the harvesting season in March and April. You can easily tour the vineyards by bike and find tasting events any time of year.

The country is also well-known for its beef production, so carnivores will definitely find something they like here. You’ll find choripan (chorizo sausage in chimichurri sauce) on every corner in Buenos Aires and plenty of steakhouses throughout the country to satisfy your cravings.

Whether you’re chowing down at a family bodegon or a five-star restaurant, you’re bound to find something good.

Q: Is Argentina expensive for tourists?

Argentina is considered a pretty expensive destination . Years of high inflation and high prices can make it kind of difficult to find deals here.

The average traveler spends about $100 USD per day in Argentina on food, accommodations, transportation, and other travel expenses.

Still, there are plenty of ways to save money. Street vendors and smaller cafes often sell empanadas for less than $2 USD each and you can find some good lunch specials with a little research.

You can also save money by traveling in the off seasons (March through June and September through November), particularly when it comes to accommodations.

Q: What is the best way to travel around Argentina?

Buses are probably the most economical way to travel around Argentina. The country’s bus system is extensive and you can easily find routes running between major cities.

The coaches can also be quite luxurious , featuring air-conditioning, toilets, comfy seats, and sometimes even refreshments! If you’re taking an overnight trip, you can pay a little extra for a sleeper class ticket for an extra comfy ride.

Air travel is probably the quickest way to get from Point A to Point B in Argentina, considering the country’s size. Aerolíneas Argentinas offers tons of domestic flights, though there are several airlines operating in the country, including a few low-cost carriers.

You’ll want to book in advance, as flights can fill up quickly here. And be flexible with your plans if you’re flying — domestic flights in Argentina are subject to frequent delays and cancelations.

Q: Is Argentina safe for travel?

Argentina is considered a pretty safe destination . Violent crime is rare here, though muggings can happen in some cities.

Petty crime rates are higher, particularly when it comes to pickpocketing and purse snatching. You’ll want to keep any valuables out of view and stay aware of your surroundings to avoid pickpockets , particularly in major tourist areas.

You’ll also want to watch out for scams here. Never get into an unlicensed taxi and always double-check your change when paying in cash. And, as always, beware of any deals that seem too good to be true.

Q: What do I need to know before going to Argentina?

One major thing to know before going to Argentina is that the country is huge. This is not a destination you can completely cover in a short amount of time, so you’ll want to pick a few major places to visit if you’re on a tight schedule.

It’s also important to keep this in mind as you plan your travel between destinations. You may need to build in a day or two just to get from one place to another, so be sure to plan ahead.

Argentinians are also major night owls. Most businesses aren’t even open until 9 AM and everyone will know you’re a tourist if you show up for dinner at 6 PM.

If you’re into nightlife, you may find yourself out at the clubs until the wee hours of the morning. It’s best to try and take a break from your usual schedule and get on Argentinian time here. After all, you are on vacation!

It’s also important to note that the weather varies pretty widely here. You’ll find mild temperatures throughout the year in Buenos Aires, but winter temperatures drop to extreme lows in Patagonia.

The weather can also change quickly in the Andes region, so layer up and pack some rain gear if you’re exploring the mountains.

And don’t forget the SPF! The sun is strong throughout the country and protection is essential all year round.

Q: How many days should you spend in Argentina?

Most experts suggest spending 10-14 days in Argentina to visit different regions and get a good sense of the country. This will give you enough time to spend a few days in major destinations like Buenos Aires and travel between places without stress.

You may be able to fit one or two destinations in over a week’s time, but you’ll definitely need to plan a few more days for a more comprehensive trip.

Q: What is the best month to visit Argentina?

April through June are generally considered the best months to visit Argentina. These months make up the country’s autumn season where you’ll generally find mild temperatures and fewer crowds. You’ll also find great deals on accommodations during this time as most of the crowds have subsided.

Summer (December through March) is widely considered Argentina’s high season for tourism, so you’ll run into bigger crowds at popular attractions. The summer weather can also be quite warm and humid in certain parts of the country, making it a less comfortable time to visit.

Q: Do I need an Argentina travel visa?

Visitors from the United States , Canada , United Kingdom, Australia , Europe (European Union), and several other countries do not need a visa to enter Argentina. A valid passport will allow you to stay in the country for up to 90 days.

It’s recommended to view your country’s Argentina International Travel Information page for the most up-to-date information on entry and exit rules and Argentina Travel Requirements. You can also contact the Consulate General of Argentina.

Q: Where is Argentina?

Argentina is located in South America. It shares borders with Chile (south and west); Bolivia and Paraguay (north); and Brazil, Uruguay, and the Atlantic Ocean (east).

Q: Are credit cards accepted in Argentina?

Credit cards — particularly Visa and Mastercard — are widely accepted around Argentina at larger establishments, though it is always wise to carry some cash for smaller establishments and in case of emergency.

Q: Can you drink the tap water in Argentina?

The tap water is generally safe to drink in Argentina, though it is always best to double-check with your hotel to be safe.

Q: What is the local currency in Argentina?

The local currency in Argentina is the Argentine peso ($).

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Travel to Argentina and you’ll be rewarded with natural wonders and one of the world’s most stylish capital cities, Buenos Aires . Stretching from the Tropic of Capricorn towards the tip of Antarctica, Argentina encompasses a staggering diversity of terrains. You’ll find everything from lush wetlands to the end-of-the-world archipelago of Tierra del Fuego. Its most emblematic landscapes are the flatlands of the Pampas and the dramatic steppe of Patagonia. Read our guide to Argentina for everything you need to know before you go.

Argentina travel facts

Where to go in argentina, best time to go to argentina.

• How to get to Argentina

How to get around in Argentina

Best places to visit in argentina, argentina travel itineraries, argentine culture, activities in argentina.

Size: Argentina is the world’s eighth-largest country by area.

Population: With a population of around 45 million Argentina is one of the least densely populated countries on the planet.

Origins: Some 97 percent of Argentines are of European origin, largely of Spanish or Italian descent.

Exports: Best known for its beef, Argentina is also a leading producer of wine, wheat, fruits and vegetables.

Nobel Prizes: Argentines have twice been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. Carlos de Saavedra Lamas, in 1936, for his peace efforts in South America, and Adolfo Pérez Esquivel, in 1980, for his defence of human rights.

Ancient history: The remains of the largest-known dinosaur – the Patagotitan mayorum , were discovered by chance by a farm worker in Patagonia in 2008.

Movies: Argentina has a vibrant film industry and has twice carried off an Oscar for best foreign language film. La historia oficial (The Official Story) won in 1985 and El secreto de sus ojos (The Secret in Their Eyes) in 2010.

Typical colorful houses and facades in the famous La Boca district in Buenos Aires, Argentina © Peter Zaharov/Shutterstock

Argentina has many beautiful sights: the waterfalls of Iguazú; the spectacular Glaciar Perito Moreno; whale-watching off Península Valdés; the handsome lakes and mountains around Bariloche. If you’re planning to travel to Argentina, bear in mind the long distances between key destinations – it’s a huge country.

Many of Argentina’s most rewarding destinations are also its least well known. These include the Ibera Wetlands (Esteros del Iberá), a huge network of lagoons offering close-up encounters with cormorants and caymans. Likewise the Antofagasta de la Sierra, a remote village set amid frozen lakes mottled pink with flamingos; or Laguna Diamante, a high-altitude lake backed by a volcano. Climate and distance mean it’s more sensible and rewarding to concentrate on one or two sections of the country when planning your travel.

Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires is likely to be your point of entry, as it has the country’s main international airport, Ezeiza. It is an exciting, vibrant city, with an intriguing blend of European architecture and a local flair. You can round off a day’s sightseeing with a tango show, dinner at one of the dozens of fabulous restaurants, or a hedonistic night out.

The Litoral

Due north lies the Litoral , bordering Uruguay, Brazil and Paraguay. Here you’ll find the Iguazú falls.

Quebrada de Humahuaca

A highlight in the country’s landlocked northwest is the Quebrada de Humahuaca, a fabulous gorge lined with rainbow-hued rocks. Nearby, in the Valles Calchaquíes, a chain of stunningly scenic valleys, high-altitude vineyards produce the delightfully flowery torrontés wine.

Sprawling across Argentina’s broad midriff are the Pampas, arguably the country’s most archetypal landscape. This subtly beautiful scenery is punctuated by small towns, the occasional ranch and countless clumps of pampas grass (cortaderas). The Pampas are grazed by millions of cattle and planted with huge soya and wheat fields.

They are also where you’ll glimpse traditional gaucho culture, most famously in the charming pueblo of San Antonio de Areco. Here, too, are some of the classiest estancias, offering a combination of hedonistic luxury and horseback adventures.

Central Sierras and Cordoba

As you head further west, the Central Sierras loom: the mild climate and beautiful scenery of these ancient highlands have attracted holiday-makers since the late nineteenth century. Within reach is Córdoba , the country’s colonial-era second city.

Keep going west and you’ll get to the Cuyo, with the highest Andean peaks as a snow-capped backdrop; here you can discover one of Argentina’s most enjoyable cities, the regional capital of Mendoza , also the country’s wine capital.

Argentina is home the lion’s share of the wild, sparsely populated expanses of Patagonia (the rest belongs to Chile). It also possesses y the most populous half of the remote archipelago of Tierra del Fuego . These are lands of arid steppe hemmed by the southern leg of the Andes – a row of majestic volcanoes and craggy peaks interspersed by deep glacial lakes . For many people, Patagonia is the first page they turn to in any guide to Argentina.

On the Atlantic side of Patagonia, Península Valdés is a must-see for its world-class marine fauna, including southern right whales, elephant seals and orcas. You may like to trace the region’s associations with Darwin and his captain Fitz Roy in the choppy Beagle Channel off Ushuaia. You could track down the legacy of Butch Cassidy, who lived near Cholila, or of the Welsh settlers whose influence can still be felt in communities like Gaiman, Trelew and – further inland – Trevelin.

Ushuaia Harbor, Tierra del Fuego, Argentina © artincamera/Shutterstock

Discover more places in Argentina

• The Litoral and the Gran Chaco Travel Guide
• Mendoza and El Cuyo Travel Guide
• The Northwest Travel Guide
• Patagonia Travel Guide
• Tierra del Fuego Travel Guide

In this section of our Argentina travel guide we’ll look at the best times to visit.

Spring is perhaps the best time to go to Argentina. The weather in Argentina in spring (Sep-Nov) is perfect almost everywhere, although icy weather is still possible in the far south.

Summer (Dec–Feb) is the only time you can climb the highest Andean peaks, such as Aconcagua. It's also the most reliable time of year to head for Tierra del Fuego, though it can snow there at any time. Buenos Aires is usually hot and sticky in December and January. You should also avoid parts of the north, as temperatures can be scorching and roads flooded by heavy storms.

Autumn (March and April) is a great time to visit Argentina – particularly Mendoza and San Juan provinces for the wine harvests. Visit Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego to see the beech groves as their leaves change colour.

The winter months of June, July and August are obviously the time to head for the Andean ski resorts. Blizzards can cut off towns in Patagonia in winter, and many places in the region close from April to October. Temperatures in the north of the country should be pleasant at this time of year, though Buenos Aires can be bleak in July and August.

A final point to bear in mind when it comes to Argentina travel: many locals take their holidays in January, around Easter and in July. Transport and accommodation can get booked up fast and rates can double. Read more about the best time to visit Argentina .

Though some people travel to Argentina overland, the majority of people arrive via Buenos Aires’ international airport, Ezeiza.

In general, airfares to the country tend to be quite high, but they do vary depending on the route and the season. The highest fares for travel to Argentina are between December and February, around Easter and in July and August. You’ll get the best prices during low season: March to June and September to November. Note also that flying at weekends means higher prices.

Flights from the UK and Ireland

Several airlines travel to Argentina from the UK. British Airways and budget airline Norwegian are the only airlines that fly direct from London. Iberia via Madrid skimps on creature comforts but is often cheap.

There are no direct flights from Ireland to Argentina. If you’re trying to keep costs down, consider flying to London with an economy airline and making a connection. Or, you can fly direct to New York or Miami and catch an onward flight from there.

Some routes allow you to take stopovers on the way – sometimes for free. Potential stopovers include Bogotá, Rio and São Paulo in South America; Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Miami, Newark, Los Angeles and Washington DC in the US; and Frankfurt, Madrid, Milan, Paris and Rome in Europe.

Flights from the US and Canada

Several airlines, including American Airlines, United and Aerolíneas Argentina, offer daily non-stop flights from the US to Buenos Aires. Flying times to Buenos Aires are around 11 hours from New York and Chicago, and nine from Miami.

There’s less choice if you’re planning to travel to Argentina from Canada, with Air Canada offering the only flight into the country – from Toronto via Santiago de Chile. Consider looking for connecting flights with a US carrier.

Flights from Australia, New Zealand and South Africa

The best flight deal to Argentina from Australia and New Zealand is offered by Air New Zealand. In Australia, flights to Argentina leave from Sydney or occasionally Melbourne. There are no direct flights from New Zealand, so you will need to connect elsewhere.

Flights from South Africa to Argentina leave from Cape Town and Johannesburg and usually go via São Paulo; Airfares depend on both the season and duration of stay.

This section of our Argentina travel guide will help you plan your travel around the country.

Getting around Argentina takes longer than you might think; distances are huge, and you are likely to spend a considerable part of your budget on travel. Ground transport (mostly by bus) will give a true impression of the scale of the country and a chance to see the landscape. If you’re planning to cover big distances when you travel in Argentina – especially around Patagonia – domestic flights can save a day or more. The inter-city bus network is extensive but services in remote areas can be poor; in these places, it is worth considering car rental. Train services are run-down and limited and not generally a viable method of traveling in Argentina.

Seven Patagonian lakes – their sparkling waters emerald, ultramarine, cobalt, turquoise, cerulean, sapphire and indigo – linked by a rugged mountain road: a magical route best explored in a 4WD.

Known simply as the Cataratas, the world’s most awe-inspiring set of waterfalls is set among dense jungle, home to brightly coloured birds and butterflies.

The undisputed highlight of La Rioja Province is a World Heritage Site dominated by giant cliffs of deep pink sandstone. Once home to dinosaurs, it’s now the protected habitat of condors, guanacos and foxes.

A visit to one of the world’s few advancing glaciers is a treat for the eyes and the ears; count the impossibly varied shades of blue as you listen to a chorus of cracks, thuds and whines.

The shimmering lagoons of these vital wetlands attract myriad birds, from tiny hummingbirds to majestic herons.

A prehistoric mural, an early finger-printing exercise or ancient graffiti? Whatever it is, this delicate tableau of many hands is one of the continent’s most enchanting archaeological sites.

The prestigious resting place of Argentina’s great and good – even Evita sneaked in – this cemetery is one of the world’s most exclusive patches of real estate.

Take a stroll down the cobbled streets of this bohemian barrio full of tango bars and antique shops, talented street performers and decaying grandeur.

Despite frigid temperatures and extreme altitude – 6,959m – the highest peak outside the Himalayas can be climbed with the right preparation and a knowledgeable guide, making for a world-class mountaineering experience.

Rugged gauchos, nodding pampas grass and herds of cattle are the famous inhabitants of Argentina’s most archetypal landscape.

Whitewashed settlements nestled against polychrome mountains, dazzling salt flats, lush valleys and cactus forests, windswept steppe and deep gorges – some of the planet’s most incredible scenery.

Once Argentina’s most feared penal colony, now the world’s southernmost city, Ushuaia sits proudly on the Beagle Channel, backed by serrated peaks and within striking distance of Tierra del Fuego National Park.

Take a boat or paddle a kayak around the swampy islets and muddy creeks of Tigre. This subtropical town on the capital’s doorstep acts as a gateway to the continent’s second-largest river system.

The world’s biggest dinosaurs once roamed Neuquén Province. Nothing will convey their immensity more than standing underneath their skeletons or seeing their giant footprints in the rock.

Perhaps the most beautiful city in Argentina, Salta La Linda (Salta the Fair) boasts well-preserved colonial architecture, a backdrop of soaring peaks and some wonderful places to sleep and eat.

Mountain Plateau La Puna, Northern Argentina © Galyna Andrushenko/Shutterstock

We’ve expanded our Argentina travel guide to include the following itineraries. They will take you to every corner of the country – and you’ll learn plenty about Argentina no matter which one you choose. You’re unlikely to complete the list, but it will give you a flavour of travel in Argentina and what we can plan and book for you with our Tailor-Made Trips service www.roughguides.com/trips .

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Argentina, created by local experts

10 days  / from 2650 USD

The Great Lakes and Glaciers of Argentina

Experience the great outdoors, Argentina-style! Marvel at jaw-droppingly beautiful Patagonian landscapes, walk the shores of deep-blue lakes guarded by snow-capped mountains at Bariloche, explore the stunning Perito Moreno Glacier – experience all of this, and much more, with this unique trip!

13 days  / from 3180 USD

From Chile to Argentina, across the Andean Lakes

Travel from Chile to Argentina across the stunning Andean Lakes, also known as the Lakes District. Beginning in Santiago, you will travel to Puerto Varas, in Chile, and then across the lakes to Bariloche, Argentina, taking in the stunning mountain scenery, before ending your trip in Buenos Aires.

14 days  / from 1933 USD

An adventure across three countries: Brazil, Argentina & Uruguay

A trip filled with history, culture and nature spread out over three beautiful and unique countries, Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay. Visit some of the most stunning sites, like the Sugar Loaf Mountain, Iguazu Falls and UNESCO World Heritage site Colonia del Sacramento, during this 14-day trip.

Argentina Itinerary 1: Wonders of Nature

Much of Argentina’s nature highlights are in Patagonia, but there are unmissable sights further north, too, if you can spare a month or so.

Watch whales, seals and sea lions basking in the cool waters off this peninsula in northern Patagonia .

The biggest colony of Magellanic penguins in South America is a delightful sight, and the trip there will likely take you past guanacos, armadillos and more.

Situated on the Beagle Channel, teeming with birds, sea lions and king crabs, Ushuaia provides a base for exploring nearby Tierra del Fuego national park.

One of Argentina’s most visited sights. Watch enormous chunks of blue ice calve off the city-sized glacier or don crampons to walk on top of it.

The northern section of Los Glaciares national park provides some of the country’s best trekking, among jagged peaks and turquoise lakes.

Up in the dry northwest, the multicoloured hues of the Humahuaca make it the pick of the region’s sights.

The enormous Iguazú waterfalls on the Argentina-Brazil border, set in subtropical rainforest, make a steamy, stunning contrast to the icy southern sights.

An enchanting, little-visited ecosystem in Corrientes Province whose marshes are filled with an array of wildlife.

A surprisingly verdant river community, just outside Buenos Aires. It makes for a gentle but impressive end to a tour of Argentina’s natural highlights.

Argentina Itinerary 2: Ruta 40

Like Route 66 in the US, Argentina’s Ruta 40 has earned legendary status, inspiring songs, books and of course road trips. It’s the country’s longest highway, running from Patagonia to Bolivia. Count on six weeks if you want to take in all 5224km of “la Cuarenta”.

Ruta 40 starts here, by the Strait of Magellan. It’s a zigzagging route through windswept Patagonian steppe.

Just off the Ruta 40, in the Patagonia wilderness, this World Heritage Site is one of South America’s finest examples of ancient rock art.

This picturesque city is the gateway to the Nahuel Huapi park and Argentina’s Lake District, home to pristine alpine-like scenery, dramatic mountain lakes and ancient trees.

A remote land of rosy lava, ebony gorges, deep karstic caves and flamingo-flecked lagoons in Mendoza Province.

Often inaccessible, this lagoon rewards the adventurous. Enjoy a picnic on the banks of a crystalline brook as you admire the silhouette of Volcán Maipo.

The road in La Rioja Province winds through polychrome mountains that contrast with the verdant vegetation along the riverbanks below.

Stop off at this Catamarca highland village for a top-notch poncho – methods of weaving have been maintained since pre-Hispanic times.

Ringed by mountains, this area of snow-white salt flats is a good place to spot llamas and vicuñas.

Argentina Itinerary 3: Wine and Dine

Travel to Argentina, and you can find excellent-quality food and drink anywhere. Beef plays a part, of course, but there’s more to the country’s culinary offering. Allow two to three weeks for this foodie guide to Argentina.

The country’s capital has the most cosmopolitan selection of restaurants – including its famous puertas cerradas – with inventive cooking at reasonable prices.

Stay on an estancia to enjoy the best barbecued beef you’ll taste anywhere, right in the fertile heartland where it comes from.

• Mendoza Spend your days – and nights if you wish – at a bodega, tasting fine malbec wines with the snow-streaked Andes as a backdrop.

A good place to try the distinctive northwestern cuisine, including the classic empanada, a pasty filled with meat or vegetables, or locro stew.

Vibrant and stylish Rosario overlooks the Río Paraná and is an excellent place to dine on the local river fish, such as dorado, boga and surubí .

The capital of Argentine Tierra del Fuego is the best place to sample centolla (king crab), plucked fresh from the Beagle Channel.

Cathedral in Cordoba, Argentina © diegorayaces/Shutterstock

Travel advice for Argentina

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Argentina

• Eating and drinking in Argentina
• Getting around Argentina: Transportation Tips
• Travel Tips Argentina for planning and on the go
• Best time to visit Argentina

Our travel tips for Argentina will help you enjoy a stress-free trip to the country.

Accommodation in Argentina

Accommodation in Argentina runs the gamut from campsites and youth hostels to fabulously luxurious estancias (ranches) and opulent hotels offering every conceivable amenity. Between these two extremes you’ll find a whole variety of establishments, including charming old colonial houses with balconies and dark and seedy hotels that lack so much as a window. Informal room rental is also common in towns with seasonal influxes of tourists but too few hotels to cope.

In terms of newspaper circulation, Argentina is Latin America’s most literate nation, and it has a diverse and generally high-quality press. Its television programming is a rather chaotic amalgam of light-entertainment shows and sports, and its radio services tend to fall into one of two categories: urban mainstream commercial channels or amateur ones designed to serve the needs of local rural communities.

Economy and exchange rates

The economic situation in Argentina has been volatile in recent years, and it is advisable to check the latest before you travel. Note that hotels and other types of commerce, especially at the luxury end of the market, often quote prices in US dollars rather than Argentine pesos.

Costs and Money

Notes come in 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1000 denominations, while 1 and 2 peso coins and 50, 25, 10 and 5 (rare) centavo coins are in circulation. Ask for small denomination notes when exchanging if possible, break bigger ones up at places where they obviously have plenty of change (busy shops, supermarkets and post offices).

Travel to Argentina doesn’t raise any major health worries. Make sure you have the standard vaccinations or updates – tetanus, polio, typhoid and hepatitis A. There have been outbreaks of dengue fever in the far north; other mosquito-related illnesses to be aware of are yellow fever, malaria and (in the far north) zika.

The tap water in Argentina is generally safe to drink, if sometimes heavily chlorinated, but you may prefer to err on the side of caution in rural areas. Mineral water is good and widely available.

Altitude ( puna ) sickness is a condition encountered at anything over 2,000m, but most serious at altitudes of 4,000m and above. It’s a common ailment for travellers entering high altitude areas of the country. Mild symptoms can include headaches, nausea, dizziness or insomnia. However, more severe symptoms can arise, in which case you should seek medical advice. Read more about altitude sickness in Argentina .

It is a good idea to take out an insurance policy before travelling. In Argentina, insurance is more important to cover theft or loss of belongings and repatriation than medical treatment – the country has a state medical system that is free for emergencies.

LGBTQ travellers in Argentina

Thanks to progress in recent years, including the equal marriage law passed in 2010, the attitude in Argentina towards LGBTQ people is quite open. Violent manifestations of homophobia are rare. However, rural areas of the country still do their best to act as if homosexuality doesn’t exist, so it’s best to act a little more discreetly there.

Travel visa requirements for Argentina

Citizens of the US, Canada, Australia, the UK, Ireland, New Zealand and most European countries do not need a visa for trips to Argentina of up to ninety days. All visitors need a valid passport. At international airports you will have your thumbprint and photo digitally recorded on arrival.

If you are planning to travel to Argentina alone with a child you must obtain a notarized document certifying both parents’ permission for the child to travel (check with the embassy). When leaving the country, you must obtain an exit stamp.

Travel safety in Argentina

With the effects of economic crises in 2001 and 2009 still lingering and poverty at 25 percent, Argentina has lost its reputation as a totally safe destination. However, any concerns you have should be kept in perspective. For the majority of those who travel to Argentina, the chance of falling victim to crime remains small. Most of the more violent crime (concentrated in the big cities) tends to be directed at wealthy locals rather than foreign visitors.

In Buenos Aires, the vast majority of visitors have no problems. Follow the basic rules and only carry only what you need for that day, and conceal valuable items such as cameras and jewellery. Always be cautious when withdrawing cash from ATMs. Remember that pickpockets most commonly hang around subte (subway) stations and bus terminals (particularly Retiro in the capital), and on crowded trains and buses.

Car theft is a common occurrence; if you are renting a car, check the insurance will cover you, and always park in a car park or where someone will keep an eye on it. When driving in the city, keep windows closed and doors locked.

Drug use, particularly of marijuana and cocaine, is fairly common among the younger generation, but the penalties for using either are stiff. We strongly advise against buying or using them – quite apart from the risks inherent in the substances themselves, doing so may bring you into contact with some very dangerous people.

If you are unlucky enough to be the victim of a robbery ( asalto ) or lose anything of value, you will need to make a report at the nearest police station for insurance purposes. Check that the police add the date and an official stamp ( sello ).

Argentina’s mores reflect its European ancestry. Apart from getting used to the late dining hours, most travellers from the West will have little trouble fitting in.

One area of etiquette that will probably be new to you is the very Argentine custom of drinking mate. Mate comes with its own set of rules, but foreigners will be given lots of leeway here, as in other areas of social custom – a faux pas is more likely to cause amusement than offence.

Sexual harassment and discrimination

Women planning on travelling alone to the country can do so with confidence. Some machista attitudes do persist but few people will find it strange that you are travelling unaccompanied.

When greeting people or taking your leave, it is normal to kiss everyone present on the cheek (just once, always the right cheek). Shaking hands tends to be the preserve of very formal situations, though some Argentines may offer a hand rather than a cheek if they know you’re foreign.

Tipping is not widespread in Argentina, with a couple of exceptions. It’s normal to give hairdressers and beauticians a five to ten percent tip and you should add a gratuity of ten percent to restaurant bills if service is not included.

The bulk of Argentina’s festivals are found in the Northwest, owing to its attachment to tradition and high proportion of ethnic communities. Pre-Columbian revivals, Catholic and secular celebrations are observed. On the whole, holidays such as Christmas and Easter are more religious, family-focused occasions than they are in Europe and the US. Although some European traditions – such as eating chocolate eggs at Easter – are starting to take off, the festivals are generally a lot less commercial.

When shopping in Argentina there’s no real tradition of haggling, although you can always try it when buying pricey artwork or antiques. Expensive services such as excursions and car rental are also obvious candidates for bargaining, while hotel rates can be beaten down off-season, late at night or if you’re paying in cash ( en efectivo ).

Argentines suffer an incurable addiction to sport, and you’ll hear informed and spirited debate in bars on subjects as diverse as tennis, rugby, basketball and the uniquely Argentine equestrian sport of pato .

Outdoor activities

Argentina is a highly exciting destination for outdoors enthusiasts: world-class fly-fishing, horseriding, trekking and rock-climbing opportunities abound. In addition there’s white-water rafting, skiing, ice climbing and even expeditions onto the Southern Patagonian Ice Cap.

Top image: Fitz Roy, Argentina © Dmitry Pichugin/Shutterstock

Criollo culture

Most closely translated as “creole”, criollo refers to a way of life born in the Americas, but with Old World roots. In Argentina, it is a byword for that which is absolutely Argentine – the culture of the countryside and the gaucho. Key aspects of this include the food – asado barbecues, of course, but also maize-based stews like locro ; clothing – such as baggy riding trousers called bombachas and the espadrille-like alpargatas ; horses – be they for rounding up cattle or playing polo; and a decidedly anti-authoritarian streak in the national character. Even the wealthiest city-dweller is usually keen to prove that he or she is fundamentally a criollo , never happier than when sipping a mate by the fire.

Tango, Argentina’s blues

Tango is not only a dance, or even an art form, it is a powerful symbol, closely associated with Argentina around the world. Essentially and intrinsically linked to Buenos Aires and its multicultural history, it nonetheless has ardent fans all around the country. Rosario and, to a lesser extent, Córdoba, the country’s two biggest cities after the capital, have a strong tango culture, complete with milongas (tango dance halls) and shops to buy the right garb and footwear. And don’t be surprised to find villagers in some remote hamlet, hundreds of miles from Buenos Aires, listening to a scratchy recording of Carlos Gardel – the 1930s heart-throb still regarded as the best tango singer. Some experts argue that tango’s success can be put down to its perfect representation of the Argentine psyche: a unique blend of nostalgia, resignation and heartbroken passion.

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written by Andy Turner

updated 26.04.2021

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• Travel advice

25 Best Places to Visit in Argentina (Chosen By Experts!)

Argentina: the land of wine, art and magnificent landscapes. From Patagonia to Buenos Aires, this beautiful country reaching to the tip of South America is one of the most inspiring in the world. Whether you’re looking for nature, culture, gastronomy or a crazy good vino (wine in Spanish), here are the top 25 places to visit in Argentina.

• Buenos Aires
• Perito Moreno Glacier
• Parque Nacional Los Glaciares
• El Calafate
• Tierra del Fuego National Park 
• Nahuel Huapi   Lake
• Puerto Madryn
• Beagle Channel
• Iguazu National Park 
• San Antonio de Areco 
• Mar del Plata
• Antofagasta de la   Sierra
• Torres del Paine National Park 
• Valle de la Luna 
• Talampaya National Park
• Valdes Peninsula 
• Punta Tombo National Reserve

1. Buenos Aires

The Buenos Aires tango scene. Photo by ArtTower on Pixabay

Ah, Buenos Aires. Sometimes referred to as “Paris of the South,” this is the capital of Argentina and an absolute cultural epicenter. It’s no wonder that it’s one of the most popular places to visit in Argentina. Between the world-renowned European architecture, famous cuisine, fascinating museums , romantic boulevards, vibrant entertainment, historical sites, trendy shopping and overall “chill vibe,” this is a stop you don’t want to miss on your trip to Argentina. City lovers can easily spend a week here, but in three days you can get a nice overview of the city.

Insider tips :

Palermo neighborhood:  Monique Loayza, Director of Peru for Less, recommends this neighborhood. “Palermo is in my opinion the best for tourists who are most interested in small shops, cafes, bars, restaurants and more boutique-style hotels,” she shares. “It’s also very pedestrian-friendly. Many restaurants and cafes also have charming outdoor sidewalk/patio seating.”

San Telmo Market:  Travel Advisor Michelle Talsma shares, “The San Telmo Market on Sundays in the Recoleta neighborhood will have you wide-eyed all day with its interesting things for sale. Recoleta also has an interesting cemetery, great restaurants and the downtown area has architecture that transports you to Europe“

Argentina Tours:

Teatro Colon : Travel Advisor Jackie Becker loved her tour of the theater. “I highly recommend doing  the tour of Teatro Colon ,” she says. “I literally gasped when I walked into the auditorium because it was so beautiful! The tour also takes you through the underneath of the theater where costumes were/are made, explains the history of the theater, etc.”

Food : Since Argentina is famed for its beef, Loayaza highly recommends a visit to the traditional steakhouse Don Julio – a must-try for steak lovers. For a scenic meal, Becker recommends Puerto Madero, with river views and typical Argentinian dishes.

Day trip : Senior Travel Advisor Rylee Mcgowan suggests, “a day trip to Uruguay (Colonia or Montevideo), the La Tigre/Delta area and/or Estancia are great day trips from the city.”

2. Bariloche

The stunning views of Bariloche.

San Carlos de Bariloche, more commonly referred to simply as Bariloche, is a picturesque mountain town in Patagonia. The town borders the icy blue glacial lake Nahuel Huapi. Loayza shares, “This was a totally gorgeous region with lots of beautiful lakes, forests and mountains. Although I haven’t been to the mountains in Switzerland I definitely think it has that feel to it. There are many parks and spots for hiking so spending a few days here if you really enjoy the outdoors is highly recommended. The town itself is very small and walkable and right on the lakeside.”

Insider Tips:

Day hike and chill . Loayza shares, “It was super easy to do day hikes, even self-guided ones, in Llao Llao Park and Cerro Otto. The trails are pretty easy and you can spend up to a few hours on them or as long as you wish. After several hours of hiking we would head over to some of the local breweries, which are spread out on the road back to the center of town – they have pretty simple, hearty food that seems German-inspired as well as good beer of course, but I think it’s just perfect for the setting and a great way to wrap up a long day outdoors.”

3. Perito Moreno Glacier

Perito Merino Glacier. Photo by Acuatro.

Located in Los Glaciares National Park, Perito Moreno Glacier is one of the most important attractions in all of Argentina’s Patagonia. The impressive glacier spans 97 square miles and is part of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, the world’s third largest reserve of freshwater. Located about 50 miles from the city of El Calafate, tourists enjoy walking circuits and boat rides to get different perspectives of this humongous natural structure. Despite glaciers worldwide losing mass due to climate change, Perito Moreno maintains its equilibrium because it accumulates mass at the same rate it loses it. Truly ones of the most jaw-dropping places to visit in Argentina.

Big Ice . Alexandra Aguinaga, Product and Accounts Manager for Peru for Less, suggests doing the Big Ice tour. “If you don’t just want to see the glaciers from far away and want to have a unique experience, I highly recommend doing Big Ice, which is a hiking experience around the glaciers, of Perito Moreno,” she says. “The bright blue and white ice colors will just pop in your lens view, and it’ll make a long lasting memory to say you have climbed a glacier.  At the end you have chocolate and whisky ice with glacier ice to give that last goodbye to Perito Moreno.”

The desert landscape of Salta la Linda .

Nicknamed  Salta la Linda,  or Salta the beautiful, this city at the foothills of the Andes is the most popular tourist destination in Northwest Argentina. Salta is known for its beautiful colonial architecture, mountainous surroundings and…. wait for it…. empanadas! This is an excellent place to get a glimpse into Andean and Quechuan culture. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, foodie, history lover or bar hopper you will find something to do.

Nature spots : Take a day trip to Las Salinas Grandes, where you can see amazing salt flats plus the Cerro de los Siete Colores, or Hill of Seven Colors. Also just 30 minutes away is  La Quebrada de San Lorenzo , a nature reserve bursting with greenery where you can hike, horseback ride, bike ride and birdwatch.

Great views . Get an amazing birds eye view of the city at  Cerro San Bernardo.  This hill provides awe-inspiring vistas of the city. Here you can sample some local bites from the vendors or take a ride on the cable car that goes up and down the hill.

The southern Patagonian town of Ushuaia.

This icy port town is the capital of the Tierra del Fuego province of Argentina. Known as “the gateway to Antarctica,” Ushuaia is actually the southernmost town in Argentina. It is situated on the Beagle Channel, 680 miles from Antarctica. The tourist town is replete with hotels, restaurants, bars and museums. Also, since it’s at the foothills of the Andes, there are many nice opportunities to hike and partake in winter sports.

Insider Tips: 

Main attractions:  The main attractions of Ushuaia are Tierra del Fuego National Park, Beagle Channel, Laguna Esmeralda and Martial Glacier.

Fresh catch : Mcgowan says she recommends indulging in some super fresh king crab at a local restaurant.

Hop aboard a train .  El Tren Del Fin Del Mundo , or End of the World Train, is the southernmost train in the world. It was a train for prisoners in the early twentieth century, so this is an eerily fascinating (and beautifully scenic) historic experience to round off your visit to Ushuaia.

Mendoza is a wine-lover’s paradise.

Known as “Napa of Argentina,” Mendoza is a wine-lovers paradise, with a backdrop of the Andes Mountains. Set beside two main wine valleys, Valle de Uco and Lujan de Cuyo, this is the ultimate access point to Argentina’s famous wineries and vineyards. The city itself has a colonial feel and there are five unique plazas to relax in. According to Talsma, “Mendoza for me was my favorite place to visit in Argentina during my trip! The weather was perfect and there were so many adorable cafes serving fantastic cups of coffee — perfect for travel journaling.”

Bike the Vineyards.  A unique way to experience the area is by bike. You can do a half or full day tour of biking and sampling delicious wines and cuisine. It’s an excellent way to take in the natural beauty of the area while savoring the local products. Loayza says, “The landscape in the region is super pretty and there was nothing nicer than taking the time to sip good wine with great views.”

Dining . Loayza also shares that a must-try in Mendoza is  Azafran restaurant , which is located on a main strip in the center of the city. “Sidewalk dining is available and I thought the food here was sophisticated and modern without being pretentious,” she says. “Since it’s Mendoza they had a very comprehensive wine list and have their own wine room where you can go to select a bottle to accompany your meal.” Also, if it’s in your budget, check out the restaurant  1884  of famous Argentine chef Francis Mallman, who was featured on  Chef’s Table .

7. Parque Nacional Los Glaciares

Hike the glaciers and mountains of Parque Nacional Los Glaciares.

For nature lovers, Parque Nacional Los Glaciares is a must-see. This national park is home to Perito Moreno Glacier, one of the most important sites in Argentinian Patagonia. Here you can also find Fitz Roy Peak, with trails that take you across the Southern Patagonian Ice Fields. As a plus, within the park is the largest freshwater lake in Argentina, Lago Argentino. The nearest towns to lodge in are the city of El Calafate and the small whimsical mountain village of El Chaltén.

Hike a glacier . While it’s amazing to see a gigantic glacier from the ground or a boat, there is nothing quite like hiking right on top of one! For the adventurous, there are tours that allow you to take a mini trek on Perito Moreno Glacier — so strap on your crampons and hit the ice.

8. El Calafate

“Gateway to the Glaciers” is a nickname for El Calafate.

El Calafate is a city in Argentinian Patagonia, with easy access to the famous Parque Nacional Los Glaciares. It borders the crystal blue Lago Argentino and is known as Argentina’s “gateway to the glaciers.” Visitors come far and wide to see the 48 glaciers of the Southern Patagonian Ice Fields, particularly the Perito Moreno Glacier. This tourist hub has ample lodging and dining options, making it an excellent resting point during your Patagonian experience. McGowan says, “I found the town very charming and would have loved an extra day to see one of the nearby Estancias (ranches).”

Souvenirs . Alexandra Aguinaga, Product and Accounts Manager for Peru for Less, says “I recommend getting some jam from the Calafate berry and some black tea as a nice souvenir.”

Visit the museum.  If you want to learn more about glaciers, ice and the Southern Patagonian Ice Fields, visit the Glaciarium. This gorgeous museum and interpretation center has informative exhibitions about how glaciers are formed and move, plus there is an ice bar constructed entirely of glacial ice where you can have a drink.

9. Tierra del Fuego National Park

Penguins can be spotted at Tierra del Fuego National Park.

Tierra del Fuego National Park is located in southern Argentina, where the Andes Mountains plummet into the icy waters leading to Antarctica. The land beholds Patagonic forests, snow-capped mountains, glacial lakes, rivers and waterfalls. The mystical beech tree forests are home to foxes, beavers, guanacos and more. Travelers can take to one of the many hiking trails and explore this area in all its natural wonder. The nearest town to lodge and dine is Ushuaia, one of the southernmost settlements in the world. Actually, many of the natural features of the park cross into Chile, such as Fagnano Lake. For hikers, this is one of the best places to visit in Argentina.

Full day tours . Mcgowan recommends delving into a full-day nature adventure. “I’ve had lots of travelers that loved a full day in Tierra del Fuego to do canoeing/kayaking, 4×4 or hiking,” she says.

10. El Chalten

El Chalten’s Rio de los Vueltas.

El Chalten is a tiny, remote mountain village regarded as the hiking capital of Argentina. Nearby the popular Parque Nacional Los Glaciares, this town is ideal for those hikers and climbers who prefer a rustic lodging experience while exploring the marvels of Argentinian Patagonia. This little spot is home to the famous Fitz Roy Mountain, and is set at the banks of the Rio de las Vueltas. There are a handful of restaurants, bars and supermarkets in town along with some basic backpacker hostels and campsites.

Company logo . The outdoor clothing company  Patagonia  got inspiration for its logo from the rocky slopes of the Fitz Roy Mountain located right by the little town of El Chalten.

11. Nahuel Huapi Lake

Nahuel Huapi Lake. Photo by Bruno Camargo on Unsplash.

Located in northern Patagonia, Nahuel Huapi Lake looks like it’s from a fairytale. With greenery and rugged mountain expanses surrounding, it’s located in Nahuel Huapi National Park — the oldest national park in Argentina. Edging against the mountain town of Bariloche, visitors can sail across the glacial lake or hike one of the many surrounding trails. Alternatively, they can sit back relax and marvel at it from one of Bariloche’s many lakeview cafes or lodges.

Cerro Llao Llao . This 3.8 mile out-and-back trail provides amazing views of Nahuel Huapi Lake. It is less commercialized than Cerro Campanario, yet can provide incredible views after just an hour of hiking to the summit.  Pro tip : This is one of the best spots in the Bariloche area to catch the sunset.

12. Puerto Madryn

Whale breaching off the coast of Puerto Madryn.

Though you wouldn’t guess by the looks of it, Puerto Madryn is still technically in Argentina’s Patagonia. Located on the east coast of the country on the Golfo Nuevo (New Gulf), this city is known for its sand beaches and amazing wildlife viewing opportunities. It is situated near the Valdes Peninsula, known for its abundance of penguins, elephant seals and even whales breaching right off the shoreline. In fact, whale watching is the main attraction in this city and really the only notable place to spot whales in the country. The town has plenty of lodging, shopping and dining for visitors.

Optimal whale watching . Visit during Argentina’s winter, between the months of June and December, for a chance to see whales — even from the shoreline! The main whale you’ll spot in this vicinity is the Southern Right Whale, which grows to be up to 65 feet (20 m) long.

13. Cordoba

Colonial cathedral in Cordoba. Photo by Vitoolariaga on Pixabay.

We had to include Cordoba in our top 25 places to visit in Argentina. This hip metropolis with gorgeous Spanish colonial architecture throughout is too often overlooked. Cordoba is a must-visit destination for fun nightlife and artistic daylife. There are lots of bars and clubs in the Nueva Cordoba area where you can party all night. By day, check out the impressive museums, galleries, theaters and parks (like Parque Sarmiento). Or, you can hippie out in the mountains, especially the mystical Cerro Uritorco. Here there are many ritualistic ceremonies, energy vortexes and apparently even some UFO sightings. Be sure to hop over to Cordoba to creatively complete your Argentinian adventure.

Visit a museum : Talsma says, “I really enjoyed visiting the  Evita Fine Arts Museum  — the collection is housed in a huge mansion so the architecture and detailing of the house was just as much a work of art as the paintings hung on the walls! I also enjoyed  Museo Emilio Caraffa . This had a lot more modern pieces than Evita. It’s a huge collection of varied works.”

14. Beagle Channel

The Beagle Channel is off the southern tip of Argentina. Photo by Pedro Ramos-Gonzalez on Unsplash.

Beagle Channel is a narrow, navigable waterway all the way at the southernmost tip of South America. It is located between Chile and Argentina, right off the Tierra del Fuego Archipelago. It’s about 150 miles long and three to eight miles wide. It separates the mainland from smaller islands at the end of the continent, and leads into the South Atlantic Ocean. Short boat tours provide the opportunity to see wildlife and the mountainous shorelines of Ushuaia and Tierra del Fuego National Park. Longer boat rides can take you through the icy blue Glacier Alley and mystical forested landscapes. You’ll have a chance to spot dolphins, sea lions and many sea birds on either of these tours.

Darwin . The Beagle Channel is named as such because of Charles Darwin’s journey down the strait in the 1830s aboard the HMS Beagle. He was spellbound by the magnificent scenery, and it was the first time he had seen a glacier.

15. Iguazu National Park

The stunning Iguazu Falls crosses from Argentina into Brazil.

Iguazu National Park is famous for its long expanse of huge waterfalls bursting from the subtropical rainforest between Argentina and Brazil. As Becker vividly describes, “ Iguazu Falls is literally one of my favorite places on earth. I cried at the falls a few times because they were so beautiful! It felt like a literal paradise watching these enormous falls and the tropical birds flying in and out of the water spray while you’re walking through these luscious green trees.” If you’re looking for lush natural beauty, this is definitely one of the top places to visit in Argentina.

Helicopter tour : Talsma recommends taking your Iguazu experience to the next level. “I really recommend splurging on some adventure activities here like a helicopter ride over the falls. Iguazu is a wonder of the world and most people only see it once in their lives so I think this kind of experience levels up a trip from awesome to incredibly awesome!”

Boat tour.  Becker recommends taking a boat tour, “I really enjoyed the boat tour that takes you right up next to the falls. You just appreciate how powerful they are in a whole new way! However, you will get 100 percent soaked. Bring a change of clothes and maybe even a plastic bag to put your phone in, if you want to bring it to take pictures.”

16. San Antonio de Areco

San Antonio de Areco has a strong gaucho (cowboy) culture. Photo by Nicolas Taylor on Unsplash.

Located in the Pampas region just an hour and a half north of Buenos Aires you find the small colonial town of San Antonio de Areco. It’s a great place for tourists and Argentinians alike to relax and stroll the peaceful streets. Here there is a strong gaucho (cowboy) influence, with many estancias (ranches) surrounding the town. You can find a lot of beautiful handmade silver products and saddlery to take home as a souvenir. Try an organized day tour to the town from Buenos Aires, or spend a night at one of the estancias for a unique experience.

Fiesta de la Tradición . For the full experience of San Antonio de Areco, align your trip with Fiesta de la Tradicion. This cowboy-inspired holiday takes place in early to mid-November. It features an amazing display of horseback riding, folk dancing, artisan markets and regional foods.

17. Mar del Plata

The popular beach town of Mar del Plata. Image: Mar del Plata ” by Juan Enrique Gilardi , used under CC BY0SA 2.0 / Compressed from original.

Mar del Plata is the most popular beach destination in all of Argentina. This seaside resort town has tons of hotels, restaurants, clubs, museums and other attractions to accommodate the influx of tourists that come through every summer. The beach can get very crowded during peak season (December-February), so it is recommended to reserve your spot or even rent a private tent. The city is also one of the major fishing ports of the country and has a thriving fishing industry, which can be glimpsed with a visit to Puerto Mar del Plata.

Insider Tips :

Pick your beach . For popular beaches with dining and shopping nearby, hit Playa Varese or Playa Iglesia. If you’re interested in surf lessons, visit Playa Grande. Quieter beaches with less nearby tourist attractions can be found further south at Punta Mogotes or Playa Serena.

18. Antofagasta de la Sierra

Alpaca at Antofagasta de la Sierra. Photo by javier dolfi on Unsplash.

Located in the Catamarca Province of northern Argentina you’ll find the volcanic field known as Antofagasta de la Sierra. The town is set in the Andes mountains 11,100 feet (3,400 meters) above sea level. The main feature of the area is the Antofagasta Volcano, a cinder cone volcano soaring to 13,100 feet (4,000 meters) above sea level. You can make the most of your visit by touring the volcano, along with the Coyparcito archaeological site and Lake Colorada, a red lake where you can spot groups of Andean flamingos.

Best view . For the best view, you can actually climb the Antofogasta Volcano. The 2.6 mile out and back trail is rated as moderate.

19. Trevelin

The town of Trevelin has a large Welsh population. Photo by Marcela Rogante on Unsplash.

Trevelin is a super unique town located in western Argentine Patagonia. The town has a heavy Welsh influence because it has been inhabited by Welsh people and their descendants since the mid-1800s. In fact,  trevelin  actually means mill town in Welsh, and the village is home to the first flour mill in the region. A fascinating blend of Welsh and native Mapuche cultures, you’ll notice the distinct blend of celtic and native names in the surrounding hills and streams. There are many peaceful lodges in the area that allow you to relax and take in the picturesque scenery on the banks of the Percy River (Rio Percy).

Visit the museum.  You can visit the Regional Historical Museum, located where the first flour mill of the area once was. Here you’ll learn about the arrival, history and culture of the Welsh in Trevelin and see various artifacts.

20. Humahuaca

Humahuaca is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Photo by Jonas Wurster on Unsplash.

This small village in northwest Argentina was founded in the late 1500s and is a resting point for exploring the surrounding area. Bursting with things to do, the colonial town is most commonly known for the fascinating Quebrada de Humahuaca. Located in a narrow mountain valley along the Rio Grande, Quebrada de Humahuaca is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its colorful natural rock formations. Notable points of interest along the 100 mile valley include Serrania de Hornocal and  Cerro de los Siete Colores,  or hill of seven colors. When you’re not hiking the surrounding natural wonders, you can enjoy walking the cobblestone streets, viewing the church and clock tower, browsing artisan markets or sampling local cuisine in town.

DIY . This can be a really great spot to rent a car and explore the region just you and your group. While there are excellent organized tours available, the roads here are good and there are car rentals in the area. Cruise along and stop at any of the colonial cities and natural attractions that you want.

21. Torres del Paine National Park

Torres del Paine National Park is in Chile, but so close to Argentina that it’s a popular stop on any Argentina itinerary.

Technically located in Chile, this National Park is so close to the border that many people visiting southern Argentina will hop the country line just to see this magnificent place. Located in Chilean Patagonia, the national park comprises winding rivers, lakes, glaciers and mountains. Here the Magellanic subpolar forests meet the Patagonian Steppes to create a natural landscape like nowhere else. There is so much hiking to do around the park that you may find your favorite trail ever here. Actually, National Geographic named this park the fifth most beautiful place in the world. And the best part is you don’t have to leave — you can stay at a hotel, lodge or refugio right within Torres del Paine National Park.

Extra days . Loayza points out, “Spend several days here if possible. Sometimes it’s added as a one or two day visit but that just seems way too short to fully appreciate this expansive park. It’s truly a great destination if you enjoy hiking — just such a wide variety of scenery and landscapes to take in.”

All-inclusive.  Loayza also suggests, “I do believe it’s totally worth splurging on an all-inclusive lodge so you can make the most of this destination via well organized tours and hikes, excellent guides, and luxury amenities (if that’s your thing).”

22. Valle de la Luna

Valle de la Luna. Image: PB141166 ” by t_y_l , used under CC BY-SA 2.0 / Adjusted brightness and compressed from original.

Yes, the moon is on our list of top places to visit in Argentina. Well, not technically the moon but the landscape sure will make you feel like you’ve landed there. Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley), also known as Provincial Ischigualasto Park, is located in northwest Argentina. The dry, grey desert landscape is accented by fascinating rock formations created by millenia of wind and rain. This otherworldly place was named a world heritage site by UNESCO in 2000. Here travelers come to be awe-struck by the sensation of walking the moon or some other distant planet. The nearest village, Valle Fertil, is 55 miles (90 km) away, but there are hotels and hostels just outside this lunar oasis where you can spend the night.

Dinosaurs ! This valley contains some of the earliest known dinosaur remains, from the late triassic period (approx. 230 million years ago). Fossils of rhynchosaurs and cynodonts are most prevalent.

23. Talampaya National Park

Talampaya National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Image: Talampaya National Park ” by NH53 , used under CC BY 2.0 / Compressed from original.

This national park located in Argentina’s La Rioja district was also named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000 (along with Valle de la Luna). Actually the two parks border each other, though Talampaya is more known for its stunning red rock canyons and formations. This is quite an archaeological and paleontological wonderland. It beholds fossils from millions of years ago (though not as many as neighboring Ischigualasto) plus petroglyphs of ancient indigenous settlements. In the present day, you won’t find dinosaurs or settlements, but you can spot guanacos, hares, maras, foxes and condors wandering about.

Name meaning . The most accepted meaning of the word  Talampaya  is “the dry river of Tala, which comes from the native and extinct Diaguita language. Tala is a local plant that exists to this day ( Celtis spinosissima ).

24. Valdes Peninsula

Valdes Peninsula wildlife viewing area. Image: Península Valdés ” by Qu1m , used under CC BY 2.0 / Compressed from original.

Jetting out into the Atlantic, the Valdes Peninsula is located at the northern edge of Argentina’s Patagonia region, in the Chubut Province. A crucial nature reserve, the peninsula is known for its abundance of wildlife — particularly sea lions, Magellanic penguins, elephant seals, southern right whales, orcas, dolphins and 181 bird species (66 migratory). It is one of the most spectacular places to see wildlife in all of Patagonia and it is one of the most revered animal conservation sites in the world. Some popular activities in the area include whale watching, shore cruise, nature walks to Valdes cove and more. You can truly spend a whole day exploring the peninsula, hitting destinations like Puerto Piramides, Caleta Valdes, Punta Delgada and more.

Insider Tip: 

Orcas . If you are very lucky, you may have a chance to see orcas do their intentional stranding at Caleta Valdes during the months of October and November. The Valdes Peninsula is one of the best places to visit in Argentina for wildlife viewing.

25. Punta Tombo National Reserve

Punta Tombo National Reserve is a great place to see penguins. Photo by Sergio Martínez on Unsplash.

Another epicenter for wildlife, the Punta Tombo National Reserve is also located in the Chubut province. The wildlife sanctuary is known for its Magellanic penguin colony and has been protected since 1979. The peninsula itself is about 1.3 miles long and is a part of a marine national park at Golfo San Jorge. Seeing these penguins is a highlight during many animal lovers visit to Patagonia. In fact, you can even do a “walk with the penguins.” During this experience you hike by these waddling little cuties in their natural habitat. You would want to avoid visiting between May to August as this is when the penguins are out to sea.

Avoid crowds . To avoid crowds, you will want to visit Punta Tombo National Reserve on a day when there is not a cruise ship in Puerto Madryn. Most of those passengers make their way to the reserve to see the penguins so opt for a cruise-ship free day for a more peaceful visit.

Ready to visit Argentina? Jot down your dream destinations in this amazing country and our expert travel advisors can help plan your ultimate Argentina vacation.

Gina loves the hidden turquoise rivers of the Andes, the magical pink dolphins of the Amazon, and the lush ocean-view parks of Lima. She finds Peru to be the most inspiring country in the world, and has been exploring and writing about this sacred place since 2014.

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Argentina Travel Tips: A Guide for First-Time Visitors

Argentina’s everchanging landscape and colourful lifestyles stole my heart. It’s a huge country offering endless experiences ranging from penguin spotting to tango dancing. Yet, there are plenty of things to catch first-time visitors off-guard. With this in mind, we created this Argentina travel guide and filled it with Argentina travel tips to keep the surprises to a minimum and the good days to a maximum.

Honestly, I found Argentina as enchanting as our daughter made it sound during her year-long stay as an exchange student. It’s an easy country to visit if you remember a few of the Argentina travel tips below.

Where is Argentina?

Argentina is located in southern South America, separated from Chile by the Andes mountains. To the north, it borders Bolivia, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay . Covering 2.78 million square kilometres, Argentina is the world’s 8th largest country, accounting for nearly 16% of South America’s landmass.

Argentina travel guide: quick reference

• Emergency numbers: Police and general emergencies : 101 & 911 or *31416 on mobile Fire : 100 Ambulance and medical : 107
• Official Language : Spanish, but be warned, it is spoken with an Argentinean accent that has the double l “ll” and “y” pronounced as a “sh”. Also, the “vosotros” verb form is not used.
• Currency : Argentine peso (ARS)
• Credit cards : Carrying cash is a good idea in Argentina. Although Mastercard and Visa are accepted at hotels, many smaller places require a minimum spend to use a credit card or don’t accept them at all.
• ATM Machines : Only found in the larger cities, they do not always work, and charge high fees.
• Electricity : 230V 50Hz Type I connectors (same as used in Australia, New Zealand, and Uruguay).
• Telephone country code : +54
• Water : Tap water is considered safe to drink in most parts of the country, but ask in smaller towns.
• Capital city : Buenos Aires.
• Population : just over 44 million people.

Travel tips for Argentina: Best time to visit

Located in the southern hemisphere, Argentina has four seasons, with hot and humid summers and cold winters in most of the country, although it is always warmer in the north than in Patagonia. The table below generalizes the country’s weather and is useful for people planning on visiting multiple regions during their visit.

Argentina Seasons

December to February – Summer

• Hot and humid with abrupt rain and lightning storms
• (Patagonia is cool and dry).
• Peak Season.
• More crowded.
• Requires booking ahead, with plenty of planning for Patagonia.

March to May – Autumn

• Autumn is mild.
• Swing season.
• Fewer tourists.
• Lower prices.
• Less planning is required.

June to August – Winter

• Moderate days and cool to cold nights for most of the country.
• Rainstorms are lighter than summer but longer lasting.
• Good time to visit the North.
• Snow in elevation.
• (Extreme cold in Patagonia, and many places closed).

September to November – Spring

• Springtime is mild.

Argentina holidays that affect travel

While there are plenty of national holidays in Argentina, most won’t significantly affect travel. The two times of the year when Argentineans are travelling are in December and July.

• Christmas and New Years fall in the height of summer; therefore, the peak travel times. Public transportation can be limited. Travel destinations are crowded, and advanced booking is required.
• School holidays in July also increase travel and require additional planning.

Argentina travel tips: know before you visit

Entry and argentina visa.

Argentina offers visa-free tourist entry to passport holders of over 80 countries. Check the official government site to see if you need a visa.

Argentina Safety (Is Argentina Safe?)

Argentina may rank as one of the safer countries in South America, but don’t let your guard down, especially in some areas of Buenos Aires where petty theft, pickpocketing, and robbery are far too common. Remember to carry your belongings hidden, especially expensive items like your phone and camera. Also, carry your bag tucked under your arm rather than on your back.

Walking around alone at night OR during siesta hours when the streets are empty is not recommended. And, if you come upon a demonstration (common in Buenos Aires), turn and walk away, as they often turn violent rather abruptly. We highlighted the best practices for safety while travelling in South America here .

Medical care and emergencies

Also, as I found out first-hand when I got dengue fever , if you get really sick and require a hospital while in Argentina, there is no charge at public hospitals. Had we known there were private hospitals in Argentina, we might have done things differently.

* World Nomads provides travel insurance for travellers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

What to bring to Argentina

We always travel light, yet we have everything we need. For Argentina, we dressed sporty in the daytime and either similar or smart casual for evenings. We had a good pair of walking shoes.

Layers are our secret. Our basic kit needed nothing extra for Argentina unless you are including Patagonia, where you might want an extra warm layer. You can get a free copy of our packing list when you sign up for our newsletter.

Cash and credit cards

Although there are plenty of ATMs in the big cities, they often charge high fees and have limits, allowing only $200-300 USD equivalent. If you know where to look, there is an unofficial exchange market that can help you turn your cash into pesos .

Top places to visit in Argentina

Best places to visit in argentina.

We visited several key regions of Argentina, but do need to go back to visit Southern Patagonia and the wine regions of Mendoza.

Buenos Aires

The cosmopolitan capital of Argentina, Buenos Aires is one of my favourite cities in the world. Exciting, colourful and elegant, Buenos Aires has it all. The mix of modern and colonial architecture is just the beginning; it is the food and tango that really enchanted me. Everything here intrigues me, and there is plenty to do.

Córdoba

One of Argentina's oldest cities, Córdoba is has a modern beat. The city boasts six universities, including the oldest university in Argentina.

Argentina's second-largest city by population, Córdoba is situated at the foothills of the Sierras Chicas. It has a youthful atmosphere and is a generally fun place to spend some time. The eclectic architecture mixes modern and Jesuit historic sites.

Iguazu Falls

Iguazu Falls are one of the most impressive natural wonders I have seen. Situated at the border corner between Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay, they are hundreds of waterfalls tumbling along a 2.7-kilometre stretch of the Iguazu River. It has created the world’s largest waterfall system. I found myself spellbound. Visiting Iguazu Falls is worth the effort it takes to get there.

Rosario is home to the first Argentinian flag, a claim to fame that put it on the map and one which draws thousands of visitors. It’s Argentina’s third-largest city after Buenos Aires and Córdoba. It's also the birthplace of Che Guevara and Lionel Messi.

San Carlos de Bariloche

Nature at its best, San Carlos de Bariloche is a Swiss-influenced, quaint mountain town in Argentina’s Lakes District, famous for many things including chocolate. This northern Patagonia city sits along the shores of glacial Lake Nahuel Huapi. We visited in summer and enjoyed hiking. It is even more popular as a winter skiing destination.

Salta to Cafayate

Just over the Andes from the driest desert in the world, Salta is nature's canvas painted in rich pastels. The drive from Salta to Cafayate is filled with unusual natural formations. And once at the other end, we stayed at a winery that grows the grapes for the famous and smooth Malbec wine.

Argentina travel tips – a few random things that might surprise you

• The pedestrian traffic light for “go” is white (not green).
• People kiss twice, once on each cheek (although it is an air kiss without actually touching).
• Mobile phones are very expensive, but pre-plans are quite affordable. Bring your phone and change the SIM card, don’t plan to buy a phone in Argentina.
• Public bathrooms are uncommon, often have a fee, and don’t smell very nice as used toilet paper goes into the rubbish bin alongside the toilet.
• The mosquitos are so big you can feel them land on you, an advantage as you know they are there before they bite, but really who wants to see giant mosquitoes?
• Before you hop on public transportation in most cities, pick up a SUBE card and save up to half the costs. You can get one at a convenience shop (Kiosco).
• Street dogs are so common it feels like they are everywhere. They generally won’t bother you, but always take caution should you come across a pack of dogs.

Meals, siesta, and other travel tips for Argentina about the local food and drinks

The daily schedule for locals varies quite a bit from that of a tourist, although commercial hours require some adjustment. In contrast, when my daughter lived here , she fully adapted to breakfast, followed by morning activity (in her case, school), and then a big family lunch.

Lunch is the largest meal of the day, generally served at home, followed by family time, then a siesta (which could be described as nap time). As a result of everyone being asleep, many businesses and most retail establishments are closed in the heat of the day, often for as long as 1 pm to 5 pm. Then, shopping returns. Dinner is a late-night affair, often starting at 9 or 10 pm. Some restaurants don’t open until 8 pm.

Regardless of what time you eat, the traditional foods, as well as some of the specialties, will have you wishing you could eat all day without consequences. Our top food picks are asado, empanada, dulce de leche, and milanesa. And for beverages, don’t miss Fernet con coca or a glass of Malbec wine. We enjoyed the traditional food so much we had to write an entire page on it.

A few final Argentina travel tips on dining:

• A 10% tip in restaurants is considered customary.
• Some restaurants charge a service fee just for being there.
• The legal age to purchase and consume alcohol in Argentina is 18; Identification is infrequently checked, and as a result, many teenagers find it easy to procure alcohol.

Maté – a shared experience

And then there is maté, a beverage that is more of a cultural phenomenon. It’s hot water poured over yerba leaves, drunk through a metal straw, and shared with friends and sometimes strangers. We were told social customs dictate always accepting maté if it is offered from a stranger, never asking for it, and smiling rather than making the face that lets people know you think it is shockingly bitter.

How to travel in Argentina

Argentina is a big country; there is no getting around that fact. The distance between the regions is often huge, and travel times are long. Put in perspective, it takes 51 hours to drive from Ushuaia at the bottom of the country to La Quiaca in the north at the Bolivian border. Similarly, the drive from Buenos Aires on the east coast, due west to the Chilean border, requires 16.5 hours.

The primary ways of getting around Argentina are by air, bus, or self-drive. We did all of them at different times.

Flying within Argentina

Flying is generally the fastest and most expensive way to get between major cities or regions in Argentina. The time saved is the obvious advantage of flying. As most itineraries require a plane change in Buenos Aires, the time saved isn’t always as much as you would expect.

The two major airlines are Aerolíneas Argentinas and LATAM, and there are several other smaller airlines. The best way to compare flight prices is with a flight search engine like Expedia flights .

Pro Tip : If you are starting in Australia or New Zealand, check out the air passes offered by LATAM. There are rules. We had to fly in and out of South America on LATAM, but in the end, they saved us a lot of money.

Self-driving in Argentina

While we flew the long distance, we chose to drive in Buenos Aires, Córdoba, Salta, and Santa Fe provinces of Argentina. We rented cars locally through Rentalcars.com , and while we had no problems, we were glad to know they have English-speaking customer service had we needed it.

In Argentina, cars drive on the right side of the road. The main highways are fine, as are some of the smaller roads, though many are in a relatively worn condition with potholes. The only problem we had, and it happened to us twice, was trusting Google Maps to provide directions, as both times it sent us down an old, unpaved road rather than the nearby modern highway.

If you are going to drive, know these Argentina travel tips:

• The speed limits on open roads are up to 120 kph (74 mph), and many have tolls. In contrast, they often drop to 60 kph (37 mph) in urban areas and 40 kph (25 mph) in residential areas.
• Importantly, wearing safety belts is compulsory for everyone in the car.
• Headlights must be on when you drive, even during the day.
• It is illegal to use your mobile phone while driving unless it is hands-free.
• Compare prices at RentalCars.com .

Argentina bus travel

Bus travel in Argentina is quite possibly the most popular way to cover long distances. Overnight and affordable first-class options make it a viable alternative for many. While we never opted for a long-distance bus, we did take several buses intermixed with boats when we crossed the Andes to Chile .

However, our daughter took the long-distance bus several times, her longest travel over 24 hours from Buenos Aires to Iguazu. She reports them to be clean, fully reclining for sleep, supplying meals, and providing bathrooms equivalent to an aeroplane.

Find your perfect bus (or ferry) to get around Argentina here .

VAT tax: an Argentina travel tip that will save you money

A 21% value-added tax (VAT) is paid on goods and services in Argentina. It is generally already included in the price you see. Importantly, at hotels, international visitors get an automatic reimbursement of the VAT if they pay with a foreign credit card or via bank transfer from a foreign bank. We also encountered a few hotels that offered the reimbursement if payment was made in US dollars.

Also, if you shop at stores displaying the Global Blue star, fill out the form here to get your VAT refunded. (We never did this, so we are not sure it works).

Save these Argentina travel tips for later

If you enjoyed travel tips for Argentina travel guide, please share it on social media and save it for later on Pinterest.

Which of these travel tips for Argentina did you find most valuable?

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Disclaimer: We worked with local tourism boards throughout Argentina. We are frequently provided with complimentary entrances, tours, or sample items to aid in the writing of Albom Adventures. However, the opinions expressed here are strictly our own.

About Rhonda Albom

Capturing the essence of travel through photography, Rhonda Albom is the primary author and photographer at Albom Adventures. She is an American expat based in New Zealand. She travels the world with her husband.

Reader Interactions

February 3, 2020 at 6:00 am

What a comprehensive and helpful guide! I love how you included details about the different pronunciations of Spanish in the area.

I’ll refer back to this when I’m leaving my trip to Argentina.

January 31, 2020 at 11:47 am

Fantastic information! I really want to visit at least Buenos Aires one day. Thanks for the table, I think visiting in Autumn would be good for less crowds and cheaper accommodation.

Erin Gustafson

January 31, 2020 at 3:00 am

Holy wow – what a resource! I love the way you break it all down into digestible sections. I would love to see Argentina one day.

California Globetrotter

January 31, 2020 at 2:49 am

I love Argentina and want to go back! I was an ungrateful 17 year old traveling with family and didn’t quite appreciate it as much as I would now. The best things we did was go to a Tango show, and a personal boat tour of Iguazu Falls! Great guide!

January 30, 2020 at 6:42 am

Very detailed and helpful post for visiting Argentina. I currently don’t have plans to visit, but if I do, I will be back. Thanks for sharing all of this information!

Jen Ambrose

January 29, 2020 at 8:09 pm

Super useful tips! I’ve never been anywhere in South America, but Argentina is high on my bucket list!

January 29, 2020 at 1:42 am

Wow, Rhonda – you’re certainly accruing frequent flyer points!

January 28, 2020 at 11:56 am

Perfect travel post on Argentina. You included so much great information.

January 28, 2020 at 4:15 am

I am shocked to hear that Argentina is considered safe. I have many friends from Buenos Aires and they all have said that they have either been hijacked while driving or attacked with guns. And I am not talking 10 years ago but months away. In any case, I think that Argentina is worth a visit even if it is only for their parrilladas y asados!

Rhonda Albom

January 28, 2020 at 10:26 am

Hi Jenn, I think you misinterpreted “may rank as one of the safer countries in South America” as being safe. The rest of the paragraph and secondary article clearly spell out the dangers, especially in Buenos Aires. That is why I offered so many safety suggestions. I completely agree with you, there is an element of trouble, especially in Buenos Aires, but worth the risk.

January 27, 2020 at 12:45 pm

wow what a super useful and helpful article! Argentina sounds amazing, I hope I get to visit some day!

January 27, 2020 at 12:41 pm

I dream of visiting Argentina, and I think that this guide is a really great resource for people like me- who haven’t had the chance to visit yet. This really gives you a good sense for what to prepare for and look forward to.

January 27, 2020 at 10:29 am

Argentina seems such a beautiful country. I hope to visit someday. Thanks for detailed information, useful tips and great photos.

Jessica Pascoe

January 26, 2020 at 10:31 pm

Where was this post 8 years ago when I visited Argentina 🙂 so helpful thanks for sharing

January 26, 2020 at 8:27 pm

Great overview! I’ve always wanted to visit Argentina, so saving this for later. My great grandfather came to the US from Italy via Buenos Aires and I’ve heard there’s a train station there named after his family.

January 26, 2020 at 3:12 pm

Argentina is high on my list to visit. This was such a comprehensive article! Thank you for sharing. I love the photos and the link to all the other cities and places to visit.

Suzanne Jones

January 26, 2020 at 11:21 am

This is such a comprehensive post – hope I get to put it to good use some time!

January 26, 2020 at 7:52 pm

Super informative! A lot of very useful and honest information shared in this post. (A bit grossed out by the used toilet paper thing). Great read!

January 26, 2020 at 8:24 am

What a lovely introduction to Argentina. I can tell you loved it. So useful to have a comprehensive summary like this.

Maria Elsa Jose

January 26, 2020 at 8:06 am

This is a real helpful, great travel tips article! Well-explained and lots of information.. and stunning photos! Keep the inspiration going!

January 25, 2020 at 9:31 am

What a beautiful place. You sure do wonderful posts on travel and everything we would need to know you have it in the post.

Have a fabulous day and weekend, Rhonda. Big hug. ♥

January 25, 2020 at 3:40 am

Hi Rhonda – can’t see me getting down there … but a really professional set of information you’ve given any potential visitor going to Argentina … and I love the photos – cheers Hilary

Juergen Klein

January 24, 2020 at 7:32 pm

A good article. One thing you forgot to mention (or I skipped over it) is the fact that Argentina has a very regulated currency market. This is again getting worse since President Mauricio Macri lost his office. ATMs are very restricted in their withdrawal amounts and charge a high transaction fee. It’s quite normal that you cannot withdraw US$200-300 in Pesos in one day. The black exchange market is also finding a revival. It called Blue Dollar in Argentina and current rates can be found on the internet. To take advantage of this you have to bring cash in high US Dollar or Euro denominations. Another way to get more cash: open a Western Union account before travelling, wire yourself funds, and withdraw for cash Pesos at any WU outlet. Bonus: you get even slightly more than the Blue Dollar rate. Other than money issues and the sometimes insanely long siesta closing times, Argentina is an interesting and varied country to travel in.

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Plan a Trip to Argentina: 19 Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors (2024)

Planning a trip to Argentina? These Argentina travel tips will help you plan the trip of a lifetime!

Oh, Argentina. The world’s 8 th largest country is a stunning mix of beautiful landscapes, vibrant cities, rich culture, delicious wine, and undoubtedly one of the most incredible South American destinations.

There are plenty of reasons to plan a trip to Argentina – but also a few things to know before going to Argentina. This Argentina travel guide will help you navigate the ins and outs of your first visit.

I lived in Argentina, in the capital of Buenos Aires, for two years and did my best to see as many corners of the country as I could. While I haven’t been everywhere, I have spent a lot of time travelling around Argentina, so here are my 19 Argentina travel tips. If it’s your first time in Argentina, this guide will help you organise the trip of a lifetime.

So, if you’ve decided on a trip to Argentina, let’s get planning!

This blog post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you book or buy something through one of these links, I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you).

How to plan a trip to Argentina – Essential info

• Capital: Buenos Aires
• Language: Spanish
• Population: 46,109,678
• Area: 2,780,400 square kilometres (1,073,500 sq miles)
• Currency: Argentine Peso
• General emergencies (in Buenos Aires): 911
• Police: 101 
• Medical emergencies: 107
• Electricity : 230V 50Hz   Type I connectors (same as Australia, New Zealand and Uruguay)
• Telephone country code : +54

1. Best time to visit Argentina

You can visit Argentina all year round, but deciding the best time to visit Argentina really depends on what you want to do during trip to Argentina.

Argentina is in the southern hemisphere, so December to February is summer. Buenos Aires can get very hot around this time of year. It’s quieter as people pack up to head to their beach homes or on vacation elsewhere. This also means that it’s busy everywhere else, especially in January, as Argentines take their holidays. This can make it an expensive time to visit.

This is the best time to visit Patagonia when towns and attractions are accessible – but also the busiest. 

September to November is a lovely time to visit Buenos Aires. The avenues bloom with purple jacarandas – truly a beautiful sight. This is also a nice time to visit the north of the country when it’s not too hot. These are actually my favourite months to visit – November is particularly gorgeous.

Winter is manageable in Buenos Aires (the average temperature is 12 to 14 degrees Celsius), but it does come with rain. Patagonia at this time of year is often completely inaccessible in some parts (including El Chaltén , which pretty much shuts down).

2. Visas for Argentina

Visa requirements for Argentina differ from nationality to nationality, but many tourists can arrive in Argentina without a visa and stay for up to 90 days. That includes the United States, Australia, the UK, Canada, and citizens of many Western European countries, among many others. 

As always, when it comes to researching the Argentina visa for your particular situation, don’t rely on me because things change regularly. Check with your local embassy or consulate for the latest information or contact an agency like iVisa . This should be one of your first steps as you plan a trip to Argentina.

Some nationalities have to pay a reciprocity fee to enter Argentina, so check this out as well.

3. How much time do I need in Argentina?

Argentina is HUGE – did I mention already that it’s the 8 th largest country in the world? Many people underestimate just how much time they’ll need here – both because there are so many incredible things to do in Argentina and so many beautiful places to visit in Argentina and because the distances are enormous.

If you’ve only got a short amount of time – say, 2 weeks in Argentina – then you’ll need to plan your trip to Argentina well. Pick the few places you want to see and organise your trip around those. Don’t try to see everything in just a few days or weeks – it’s impossible.

I guarantee that you’ll either want to extend your trip by weeks or come back to see more of the country!

4. How much do I need to budget for Argentina travel?

What you need to budget for travelling to Argentina will vary depending on your travel style and itinerary. However, let’s break it down so you can get a rough idea.

If you’re the backpacking type, you can get by quite comfortably on US$50-$60 per day. This includes accommodation in budget hostels, local meals, public transport (overnight buses) and a few attractions.

For mid-range travellers who prefer private accommodations, nicer meals and more excursions, expect to spend between $100 and $150 per day.

For those who love luxury, the sky’s the limit! High-end hotels, gourmet meals, private tours, and luxury transportation can raise your daily budget to $250-$300 – or more.

These are just estimates and your actual expenses may vary. Also, keep in mind that Argentina’s economic situation can be volatile, leading to fluctuating prices that can change – literally – from day to day. Read my guide to money in Argentina to learn how to handle cash, credit cards and ATMs and navigate the “blue market”.

5. How to plan a trip to Argentina independently

Travelling in Argentina is very easy to do independently. There are good transport networks, many people speak English, and accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets.

I’ve got a lot of free resources on the blog to help you with planning independent travel to Argentina.

But taking a guided tour can take a huge weight off your shoulders. Someone else organises all the details, you just show up and have a good time!

If you do want to take a tour, there are several companies that organise guided visits to Argentina. Check out TourRadar for Argentina tours . They list the biggest and best tour operators (Intrepid Travel, for example) and have tours all over Argentina for different budgets and interests.

Want even more tips on travel planning? Check out my 15 easy steps on how to plan a trip from start to finish!

6. How to get to Argentina

There are direct flights to Buenos Aires from North America, the United Kingdom, Australia, Europe and South Africa, as well as from most South American countries.  

I like to begin the flight booking process by checking routes and prices on sites like Skyscanner and Momondo . Skyscanner is particularly great because you can set up price alerts and also search for the cheapest days to fly. Click here to try it out .

Buenos Aires has two airports: Aeropuerto Internacional Ministro Pistarini, more commonly known as Ezeiza (EZE), serves international flights. Aeroparque Jorge Newbery (AEP) handles domestic flights and some international flights to Uruguay and other nearby countries.  

Ezeiza and Aeroparque are 41 kilometres (25 miles) apart, so if you do have a connection upon arrival in Argentina, make sure you plan your travel accordingly. This is because the trip between the two airports can sometimes take more than two hours in peak hour traffic. You don’t want to miss your connecting flight!

There are overland border crossings into Argentina from Chile (a stunning journey across the Andes that I would love to take; multiple border crossings), Uruguay (multiple border crossings; the ferry between Buenos Aires and Colonia del Sacramento is the most popular), Brazil (at Puerto Iguazú), Bolivia and Paraguay.

7. How to travel around Argentina

As I’ve mentioned more than once already, Argentina is a HUGE country. The easiest and quickest way to travel Argentina is to fly.

Flying in Argentina

The major airline in Argentina is  Aerolíneas Argentina . Aerolíneas has an extensive network throughout the country. A few other low-cost carriers have also recently popped up, including  Flybondi  and  JetSMART . 

Be aware that you often need to connect in Buenos Aires if you’re flying around the country. This means you need to carefully plan your trip to Argentina. While this is improving and there are more direct routes on offer, but there are still major cities that aren’t directly connected by air. So, you may need to play around with the flights on your itinerary to find the most direct routes.

Domestic flights can sometimes be expensive, and foreigners are often charged more. But the prices I’ve seen lately online have been very reasonable.

Of course, all that flying isn’t great for the environment, so consider carbon offsets.

Buses in Argentina

If you have some time and you’re okay with taking long-distance buses, the country has an excellent bus network, offering comfortable seats and food on board in many cases. 

Bus travel in Argentina is  long – a trip between Buenos Aires and Puerto Iguazú, for instance, takes around 20 hours. That trip costs around US$85-$120.  Rome2Rio  is a good site for checking bus travel options and prices.

The Estación Terminal de Omnibus ( Avenida Ramos Mejía 1680 ) in Buenos Aires, better known as the Retiro Bus Station, is the hub for long-distance buses from Buenos Aires to the rest of the country.

Self-driving in Argentina

If you’re visiting Buenos Aires and other cities on your Argentina trip, you won’t need a car.

But if you travel out to other regions of the country, like the north of Argentina (my favourite part of the country!) or Patagonia , then a car will be handy.

You can book a car through Rentalcars.com or DiscoverCars , where you can compare the major car rental brands. I’ve got a guide to renting a car in Argentina if you’d like some tips.

A few things to know about driving in Argentina:

• Major roads are generally in good condition, although if you’re travelling to more remote areas you may encounter some dirt roads and a few potholes
• Drive on the right-hand side of the road
• Many rental companies only have manual cars, so check this before booking
• Many major roads have toll booths, so you’ll need to have some small money easily at hand
• You must have your headlights on while driving, even during the day (we were fined for not doing this, oops!)

8. Getting around Buenos Aires

Getting around Buenos Aires is easy. Taxis are plentiful and easy to hail from the street. Make sure the driver turns on the meter when your trip begins. It’s also handy to know the cross streets closest to your destination, as drivers will use those to navigate (rather than an actual address). 

It’s also wise to check the best route before getting in a taxi. While most taxi drivers are honest, every once in a while you’ll come across one who tries to take the long route. 

Uber exists but the company doesn’t have a great reputation in Buenos Aires and there has been some violence against Uber drivers by taxi drivers. Still, it is possible to use Uber in Buenos Aires. Cabify is a better option.

Public transport is cheap in Buenos Aires and there’s an extensive network. There are  colectivos  (buses), the subte (underground train) and the train (aboveground, these tend to go to the outer suburbs). Plan ahead by downloading the  Cómo Llego  app, which provides the best way to get from A to B.

To take public transport, you’ll need a SUBE card. Purchase one from the Subte ticket window or from a  kiosko  (convenience store). 

9. Best places to visit in Argentina

There are so many incredible places to visit in Argentina, and deciding where to focus your travel attention will be difficult.

Here are just a few of my favourite Argentina destinations. It’s a by-no-means exhaustive list but it may just help kickstart your Argentina itinerary planning . Adding just a few of these will give you a taste of the best of Argentina. You can read about even more amazing places to visit in Argentina in my full blog post.

Buenos Aires

A visit to Argentina’s alluring capital is a must. From the grand architecture to the wild nightlife to the incredible food, the most European of all the South American cities will enchant. Plan to spend at least 3 days in Buenos Aires to get a feel for the city.

Argentina’s most famous wine region is home to the rich and juicy Malbec varietal. Spend a few days visiting wineries by car or by bike. The area is also a magnet for outdoor adventurers looking to enjoy thermal hot springs, mountain climbing and hiking.

Iguazu Falls

You won’t quickly forget the thunderous rush of these waterfalls that straddle the Argentina and Brazil borders. Spend a day or two exploring the falls. I have a full guide to visiting Iguazu Falls from both Argentina and Brazil.

North Argentina

Without a doubt, my favourite part of Argentina is the north of the country. Otherworldly landscapes, delicious wines and intriguing culture: making the trip up here is worth it. Check out my guide to roadtripping north Argentina .

Adventure lovers will be in their element in El Chaltén, with so many options to hike in pristine parks. Home to the craggy peaks of Monte Fitz Roy, there are some amazing hikes in El Chaltén to tackle for all levels of expertise and fitness.

Perito Moreno Glacier

If you’ve ever wanted to walk on a glacier, here’s your chance. Located in Los Glaciares National Park, this thousands-and-thousands-and-thousands-of-years-old glacier will inspire awe as huge chunks of ice break off the glacier and crashes into the icy waters below. Learn more about trekking on Perito Moreno Glacier .

Bariloche in northern Patagonia is a dream to visit year-round. In the warmer months, go hiking, fishing and biking, and in winter hit the ski slopes. A must-do is a drive (or bike ride) along the Ruta de los Siete Lagos .

You can download your own Argentina travel planner just below. It’s a guide I’ve created for plotting out a 2 week Argentina itinerary.

10. Health in Argentina

Argentina has good health and dental services available and it’s affordable – sometimes even free, including for foreigners. 

One thing I never leave home without is travel insurance. Compare travel insurance for Argentina on Travel Insurance Master , a site that aggregates the best insurance policies.

Make sure you buy your insurance when you buy your flights, so you’re covered for any cancellations or trip interruptions/delays.

Check out the  Center for Disease Control  for recommended vaccinations for visiting Argentina. For most people, it’ll be standard vaccinations. While there are no required vaccinations to enter the country, it’s recommended to be up to date with your COVID vaccines.

11. Language in Argentina

The official language of Argentina is Spanish. But your high school Spanish won’t cut it here. Argentines actually speak  Castellano  and with a whole lot of hand gestures thanks to their Italian and Spanish heritage. 

People use  vos  instead of  tú , and “y” and “ll” sounds are completely different ( pollo sounds more like posho , with the sh as in sshh ). 

Even though many people in Argentina speak English, especially in Buenos Aires, you should try to learn a few key phrases. Watch a few Argentine movies (I’ve suggested some later on) so you start to get your head around the accent.

12. Money in Argentina 

Oof, now we’re on to the tricky subjects. One of the most important things to know before going to Argentina is how to deal with money.

The economy in Argentina is… complicated, to say the least. And it’s going to cause you a headache during your trip to Argentina.

Even though I lived in Argentina for almost two years, I’m still no expert. To put it very simply, the country’s currency, the peso, is continually fluctuating and prices change rapidly and regularly. Policies change dramatically with governments. It’s caused a lot of anxiety and financial stress for Argentines over many decades.

For travellers, it’s also challenging. Here are a few money in Argentina tips .

Always have cash on hand

One of my biggest travel tips for Argentina is to always  have cash (pesos) on hand, particularly smaller notes. This helps shopkeepers with providing change. Don’t be surprised in small shops if you get a few sweets in place of a few pesos – they may not have enough change to give you.

ATMs are expensive

ATMs are in all major cities, but they have strict limits on how much you can withdraw in each transaction and high transaction fees which will add up quickly. Withdrawal amounts vary, but you’ll usually only be able to get around US$200 out each time. 

ATMS often run out of money, especially around holiday periods and long weekends. 

I’ve often had difficulties with certain cards at times, so bring several bank cards with you if you have them.

Bring U.S. dollars or Euros

The best way to handle your travel money in Argentina is to bring cash with you, specifically U.S. dollars or Euros. This is how you’ll get the best exchange rate in Argentina. (Read about the blue market next to understand why.)

Have a plan to keep your cash safe as well – don’t take it out with you when you leave your hotel or accommodation, and stash it in different places in your bags and suitcases.

Some vendors will accept USD, but it’s not common. If they do, they’ll usually have the coto (exchange rate) listed at the cash register.

Exchanging money in Argentina

But how do you actually exchange foreign currency into Argentine pesos?

Definitely don’t do it before you arrive in the country – you’ll get the same terrible rate as the banks.

One way is to exchange money in hotels. They’ll offer you the same (probably terrible) rate as the banks but you won’t have to pay the withdrawal fees, so you will be slightly better off.

But where you’ll get the best rate is through the  mercado azul , or blue market, which is basically the black market. 

You’ll be able to see what the dólar informal (also called the dolar blue ) is online so you can compare it to the dólar oficial . Check the latest rates here . 

The dólar oficial is the rate you’d get changing money at a bank or withdrawing pesos from an ATM, while the dólar blue is the black/blue market rate.

As of the time of writing, the difference was almost ARS$615 between the two. That means you get almost three times your money by exchanging on the blue market rather than through official channels.

Armed with this information, find a cueva to change your money in. They’ll exchange money at the blue market rate.

It’s best to ask someone at your hotel or accommodation for a recommendation for a money changer. It can be a bit daunting the first time you do it! 

Alternatively, you can try an arbolito (which translates to “little tree” in Spanish but in Argentina is a money changer). In Buenos Aires, you’ll find them easily on La Florida in the Microcentro, calling “ cambio, cambio ”. They’ll probably take you inside a newsstand or shop where the exchange will happen. You’ll get a better rate with larger bills (US$50 or US$100) and always have clean, untorn notes. Often, they’ll use a machine to check your money for counterfeits.

Money changers can also be found in smaller towns. 

Just to give you an idea of how I used to get my money when I lived in Argentina: I rarely used the ATM. Instead, I would change stacks of U.S. dollars. I would call up a guy, he’d pick me up from the front of my apartment or office, we’d drive around the block and I’d get out with a paper bag full of pesos. I felt like I was in a movie doing a dodgy drug deal!

Credit cards

Credit cards are accepted in larger touristy restaurants and in hotels, but elsewhere may not be accepted at all. Most people want to be paid in cash.

Previously, I would have advised against credit cards, because you’ll be charged at the official rate. But a new initiative means that you get a different rate (the MEP rate) which is closer to the blue rate.

Visa cards are best as well as Mastercard. I wouldn’t even bother attempting to pay with American Express. Some stores will also want to see photo ID when you pay with your card, so take along your driver’s license or a copy of your passport. 

13. Safety in Argentina

Argentina is a safe country to visit . However, like anywhere in the world, take precautions. 

In Buenos Aires, watch out for pickpockets, especially on buses, the  subte  and in marketplaces. I’ve been pickpocketed in Buenos Aires so I can unfortunately vouch for their tremendous skills! 

Keep your bags close to you, especially at restaurants and bars and while on public transport. Don’t pull out your phone in busy places or leave it on the table while you’re eating. Never leave your handbag on the back of your chair.

Motochorros  are common. These are thieves on motorbikes who ride past and snatch bags or even phones out of the hands of people sitting in taxis. Always have your window up and the door locked when you’re in a taxi or car.

My tips for staying safe in Argentina:

• Learn some basic Spanish, enough so that you can get by in taxis and on public transport
• Travel by private transport at night, like a taxi or Cabify rather than a public bus
• Be careful with your cash and only carry with you what you need. Also, put money in different spots. Some could go in your wallet, some in another pocket, some in your shoe, some (for the ladies) inside your bra
• Don’t flash around pricey cameras and phones. These items are expensive in Argentina and enticing for thieves
• Try to blend in. Don’t walk around with a map in your hand and camera slung around your neck, don’t speak loudly in English
• Don’t carry your passport around with you, take a copy instead
• If something does happen, don’t fight back! Valuables can be replaced, your life cannot. Violent crime does happen in Argentina
• Keep an eye out for protests, which happen frequently in Argentina. You may be curious to see what’s going on, but they can turn violent

Beyond a few rogue characters, you’ll find Argentines to be incredibly friendly and welcoming and you should have a safe visit.

14. What to eat in Argentina

One of the highlights of a visit to Argentina is the food – and wine. 

My best Argentina travel tip? During your trip to Argentina, forget about the diet and enjoy!

Some of the must-eat foods in Argentina are:

• Steak  – you can’t go anywhere in Argentina without seeing steak on the menu. There are many different cuts, but most will be familiar. 
• Empanadas  – you’re going to eat SO many of these pasty-type delights on your Argentina visit.
• Choripan  – a sausage (chorizo-style but rarely spicy) that’s served in bread. Smother it in chimichurri sauce.
• Locro  – a traditional stew made of beans, corn, vegetables and meat, it’s mostly found in the north of Argentina.
• Provoleta  – a disc of cheese that’s cooked on the grill and then served still bubbling in a small cast iron skillet. Usually served as an appetiser.
• Dulce de leche  – a creamy caramel sauce.
• Alfajores  – sandwich cookies that are filled with dulce de leche. They’re often then smothered in chocolate.
• Ice cream  – ice cream stores are everywhere in Argentina. The country’s Italian heritage has produced deliciously creamy ice cream, and you must try dulce de leche flavour of course!
• Medialunas  – croissant-like pastries that are usually eaten for breakfast or  merienda  (afternoon tea).

Vegetarians may struggle, but there are other options served in most restaurants like pasta and pizza. Or load up on salad. You won’t starve, but you may get sick of carbs by the end of your trip.

As for eating culture, Argentines eat small breakfasts, mostly just a coffee and a medialuna . At many hotel buffets you’ll probably have the option of basic cereals, slices of ham and cheese, yoghurt, fruit and, of course, medialunas . Lunch will generally be the biggest meal of the day.

Eating out in restaurants is slow – people sit and enjoy their meal rather than being rushed out the door. Waiters will generally leave you alone and you may have to beg them to bring you the bill at the end of the meal!

Tipping isn’t required, but you should plan to round up your bill so you leave around 10%. You’ll notice on the bill a “service charge” which is basically to cover your bread, cutlery and so on. This isn’t the tip.

15. Argentines share drinks

When you visit Argentina, you may at first be surprised to see people gathered together sharing mate (pronounced mah-tay) from the same cup.

Mate is a tea made from yerba leaves and drunk from a cup (also called a mate) and a shared straw (called a bombilla ). It’s part of the cultural fabric of Argentina (and Uruguay ). 

You’ll see friends sharing it and strangers sharing it. When we were getting our DNIs (our resident cards), we even saw another lady sharing it with the bureaucrat processing her request!

If germs don’t bother you, then sharing mate is something that you should partake in if you’re offered. I personally am not a fan of the bitter flavour, but my husband loved it and I’d often come home to find him sipping on mate with the porteros (doormen) at our apartment or our Spanish teacher. It’s a great way to connect with people.

16. What to pack for Argentina

I’d recommend wearing your normal clothing in Argentina – tourists traipsing around in zip-off pants and waist packs stand out from a mile away and could make you a target for thieves. 

Wear basics like jeans and t-shirts to help you to blend in. Definitely bring some comfy walking shoes because you’re going to be racking up the steps on your trip to Argentina.

Do pack a nice outfit for going out for dinner or to a tango show.

If you’re planning on going hiking or doing any other outdoor activities, it’s best to bring your own gear. Hiking gear including shoes, trekking poles and so on can be quite expensive in Argentina.

Some other key must-have items:

• The Argentina Lonely Planet guide
• A universal adapter (Argentina uses the same plug as Australia)
• A bag or backpack with a zipper, like this stylish anti-theft bag
• A raincoat that packs up easily
• Medications that you use regularly, along with prescriptions
• A padded wine bag to transport your precious bottles home

17. Bring your own phone

If you’re wondering what to do in Argentina to stay connected, then here are a few tips.

Mobile phones are expensive in Argentina, so it’s best to bring your own (unlocked) phone on your trip to Argentina and get a sim card when you arrive in the country. 

There are three main providers in Argentina: Personal, Movistar and Claro. There’s a Personal stand in Ezeiza airport, so you can easily buy the sim card there. Otherwise, find a store in the city – they’re all located in Microcentro – and get your sim card there. You will need your passport to purchase.

Topping up is easy. Wherever you see a kiosko (like a small general store) with a sign “ recarga aqui ” (recharge here) and the logo of the provider your sim card is with, you’ll be able to top up.

If this all sounds too complicated, I prefer to get an e-sim. They’re super easy to use and you can top up with an app. I used Nomad for a recent trip to Europe – and their plans cover Argentina.

18. Watch out for perros – and their caca

You’ll often see packs of dogs while wandering around Argentina. Some are tethered to their dog walkers (called paseo perros ) in humourously large groups, while others roam free. They’re usually pretty friendly, but be wary.

The biggest danger with dogs, in my opinion, is the poop you’ll see everywhere!! Dog owners in Argentina don’t seem to care about picking up after their pups, so beware the footpaths littered with caca !!

19. Check out some movies and books about Argentina

One of my favourite travel tips for Argentina is to read up about the country before you visit or watch some classic movies. 

So you can get a feel for Argentina culture, here are a few of my faves:

• Lonely Planet guide to Argentina  – a practical guide to the country to help you plan your trip to Argentina
• In Patagonia  by Bruce Chatwin  – non-fiction book about Chatwin’s explorations around Patagonia; the descriptions are incredibly vivid and will put Patagonia on your bucket list if it’s not there already
• Anything by  Jorge Luis Borges  or  Ernesto Sábato  – two of Argentina’s most famous writers
• The Tango Singer  by Tomás Eloy Martínez  – a fictional story about an American student researching tango in Argentina
• Relatos Salvajes  (Wild Tales)  – hands down one of my favourite movies  ever . The series of 6 short stories are all captivating and wickedly funny or sad
• El Secreto de Sus Ojos  (The Secret in Their Eyes)  – a thriller that won the Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film in 2010
• The Clan  – a true story (yes, it’s really true and you’ll constantly ask yourself this question as you watch it) about a family involved in a series of kidnappings during the “Dirty War” of the 1970s

Final thoughts on planning a trip to Argentina

Argentina remains one of my favourite countries. It could be because I lived there and got to learn about the culture, food, language and traditions, but I think any visitor will very quickly fall in love during their time in the country.

If it’s your first time in Argentina, with a bit of careful pre-planning and these handy tips for travelling to Argentina, you’ll have an amazing trip – and probably want to come back!

Did you find this article helpful? Consider buying me a coffee as a way to say thanks!

Need any help planning a trip to Argentina? Just drop your question in the comment section below!

Related posts

Before you go… these posts might be of interest:

• How to plan the ultimate 2 weeks in Argentina itinerary
• The best places to visit in Argentina
• 45+ incredible things to do in Argentina

ARGENTINA TRIP ESSENTIALS

• Book your flight to Argentina online with Skyscanner . I like how this site allows you to find the cheapest days.
• Find a great hotel in Argentina. Check prices on Booking.com   and Expedia online.
• Check out the huge range of day tours throughout Argentina on GetYourGuide or Viator . There’s something for everyone.
• Keep those bottles of wine you’ll be buying safe in these wine bags .
• A copy of the  Lonely Planet guide to Argentina will be handy. Also pick up a Spanish language guidebook to help you navigate your visit.
• One thing I always purchase is  travel insurance ! Travel Insurance Master allows you to compare across multiple policy providers, while SafetyWing is great for long-term travellers and digital nomads.

PLAN A TRIP TO ARGENTINA: PIN IT FOR LATER

Save this guide to help you plan your trip to Argentina by clicking on any of the images below to save it to Pinterest.

About REBECCA

I'm a travel junkie who started dreaming about seeing the world from a very young age. I've visited more than 40 countries and have a Master of International Sustainable Tourism Management. A former expat, I've lived in Australia, Papua New Guinea, Argentina and the United States. I share travel resources, tips and stories based on my personal experiences, and my goal is to make travel planning just that bit easier.

4 thoughts on “Plan a Trip to Argentina: 19 Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors (2024)”

Off to Argentina for the first time next week, just read your article, thank you it has been very useful.

Have an amazing trip! Where are you going in Argentina?

Thank you for all this information! Makes planning our trip that much easier. Super helpful.

Hi Diana, this makes me so happy! Thanks for stopping by and let me know if you have any further questions 🙂

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Argentina Travel Guide

Last Updated: January 19, 2024

Argentina is one of the most popular countries to visit in South America. Whether you’re backpacking the entire country or just visiting on a short holiday looking to drink wine, eat steak, and do some hiking, Argentina will not disappoint you. I love the place to death.

From the relaxed café culture of Buenos Aires to the natural beauty of the massive Iguazu Waterfalls, the stunning Perito Moreno glacier to the charming vineyards of Mendoza , Argentina is a wonderfully beautiful country with world-class landscapes to match the delicious steaks, award-winning wine, and lively and welcoming people you’ll find here.

Argentina blew away all of my expectations.

This travel guide to Argentina can help you plan your trip, stay safe, stay on a budget, and ensure you make the most of your visit here.

Note : Argentina suffers from incredible inflation and prices vary widely and increase without notice. The prices here might be accurate as of the day we publish but could be dramatically different by the time you get there. Keep that in mind as you plan your expenses.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Argentina

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in argentina.

1. Enjoy the culture of Buenos Aires

Nicknamed the “Paris of South America,” Buenos Aires is an amazing and fun city with a lot of culture, fantastic nightlife, food, and shopping. Stay in the trendy Palermo neighborhood and walk the tree-lined streets, visit the Museum of Latin American Art in Buenos Aires (aka MALBA), and explore Palermo Soho which has a more youthful vibe and is crammed with cool shops and boutiques.

Additionally, on the southern border of Palermo is La Recoleta Cemetery, one of the most atmospheric graveyards on the planet and home to several famous Argentines, including Eva Peron, several past presidents, patriots, poets, and other VIPs of Argentine history. El Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes, the National Museum of Fine Arts, is nearby as well. Opened in 1895, the museum houses works by Goya, Monet, Rubens, Rembrandt, Van Gogh, and many other masters.

2. Marvel at Iguazu Falls

With 450,000 cubic feet of water thundering down the 275 cascades every second, it’s easy to see why this massive waterfall is so popular. The water plunges below in a powerful and sensational flurry of white water and mist with rainbows stretching above it all. The uneven cascades are also some of the tallest in the world, as they measure between 62-85 meters (210-269 feet). A sturdy wooden walkway allows visitors to wander out to get a closer, face-to-face look at the falling water. Some might remember the falls played a supporting role in the films Indian Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull, Captain America: Civil War, and The Mission, among many others.

You can find several types of guided trips leaving from Buenos Aires or just go on the local bus yourself. Stay in Argentina and get drenched on a boat ride around the falls or spring for a tour that includes Brazil on the opposite shore. The view from Brazil is arguably better, since you’re on a narrow ridge surrounded by the falls in Argentina. The entry fee for Iguazú Falls National Park on the Argentine side is 20,000 ARS.

3. Wander Salta

Located in the northwest of the country, Salta is a small city with outstanding museums, plaza-side cafes, and a lively folk music tradition. The colonial architecture of the city is well preserved here too. The most popular museum is Museo de Arqueología de Alta Montaña (MAAM), opened in 2004 for the mummies of three children sacrificed by the Inca and discovered in 1999. Don’t miss the Teleférico San Bernardo, a cable car that glides through the air to a hilltop with a gorgeous view of the whole city. A round-trip ticket for San Bernardo is 8,000 ARS.

4. Learn the tango

Argentina is famous for its national dance, the tango. You’re bound to run into it everywhere you go with people quite literally practicing in the streets. Throughout the country there are studios that offer lessons if you want to learn and free public places to watch the locals dance away. In Buenos Aires, splurge on a tango show at the historic Teatro Tabarís or Gala Tango. A more budget option is the outdoor shows in Plaza Dorrego, where the best dancers can be found every Sunday afternoon.

5. Explore Mendoza

Other things to see and do in argentina, 1. take the train to the clouds.

Sure, it’s a train built for tourists and super overpriced, but taking this train through the clouds and lush forest is so breathtaking I don’t mind. This is a 400-kilometer (250-mile), 16-hour round trip into the Andes from the town of San Antonio de los Cobres. You can buy the train ticket with the bus ride between Salta and San Antonio de los Cobres included, or via just the train. Consider buying just the train ticket so you can spend a little time checking out the Andean culture (and llamas) in San Antonio. As the train climbs to 4,200 meters (13,779 feet), you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views overlooking mountains, forests, and valleys. It only operates seasonally and on specific days of the week, so be sure to check the schedule before you go. The website only shows prices once you pick a date for the reservation.

2. Climb Cerro Aconcagua

At almost 7,000 meters tall (23,000 feet), Cerro Aconcagua is not only the country’s highest mountain but also the highest in the Western Hemisphere. This climb isn’t for the faint-hearted as it’s estimated to take a couple of weeks to acclimatize to the altitude and reach the summit. However, it’s a challenging hike, not a technical climb. Many hikers set their sights on part of the mountain, without risking the dangers of oxygen deprivation near the summit. If you love a challenge and are a practiced hiker, it’s an adventure worth considering! Due to the instability of the peso, many trekking companies post prices in USD. Guided summit hikes cost around $5,000 USD while an 8-day trek around the mountain (not to the summit but around the various camps) costs around $2,000 USD. The most popular option is a 4-day hike around the mountain, which costs $700 USD per person. Not into hiking? Nearby Los Horcones Lake is only 2,900 meters (9,514 feet) above sea level and a popular fishing destination.

3. Explore Valle de la Luna

Translated as “Valley of the Moon,” this dramatic landscape dates to the Triassic period. Winds and rain have carved the rocks into strange formations that give this place the look of a lunar landscape. Despite the arid conditions, the area is great for wildlife spotting as it’s home to foxes, owls, armadillos, condors, and guanacos. A wild cousin of the llama, guanacos will give your landscape photos a decidedly South American flair. The unique geological formations and fossil beds have earned its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Don’t miss the Museo de Sitio William Sill, built over impressive dinosaur fossils where you can watch archeologists at work.

The best way to explore the park is via a rental car. Once you have that, you can take the 25-mile circuit tour, stopping at five different points along the way, each one offering stunning sights and views of the park. The circuit should take approximately three hours. There are also hikes through the park. One of the most popular is the trek up to Cerro Morado, the tallest mountain in the park at nearly 1,900 meters (6,000 feet). The walk takes about three hours and, once at the top, offers wow-inducing views of the natural landscape below. Admission to the park is 5,000 ARS.

4. Hike on Perito Moreno Glacier

Located within the expansive Los Glaciares National Park is the impressive Perito Moreno glacier. At almost 4,570 meters (15,000 feet) wide and 61 meters (200 feet) tall, it’s one of the coolest sights I’ve ever seen. You can hike on the glacier (which is an epic experience) or walk on the metal platforms constructed a stone’s throw from the massive wall of ice. You’ll need a licensed guide, ropes, and crampons to hike on the glacier but you can take the bus from El Calafate and do the platform walk on your own. Boat rides to Perito Moreno get you even closer and can include other nearby glaciers like Spegazzini and Upsala. Depending on the season, a full-day tour including a boat ride costs around 99,000 ARS. Austral summer, from December to February, has higher prices.

5. Day trip to San Rafael

Located a few hours from Mendoza, this tiny little town is a wonderful place to see wineries. Try the local Malbecs and other reds that go perfectly with an Argentine asado. Like Mendoza, this is a great place to go on a bike ride through the picturesque vineyards. Don’t miss out on the nearby stunning Atuel Canyon, where you can go whitewater rafting in the summer. San Rafael is a charming little place to relax and slow down to enjoy the local pace of life. A bus from Mendoza to San Rafael costs 2,500 ARS for a one-way ticket.

6. Visit Ushuaia

Ushuaia is the most southerly city in the world and the largest city in Tierra del Fuego. This is a very popular town for travelers coming to the end of their South American journey, or for those traveling to Antarctica. This is the launch point for all Antarctica cruises, as the continent is only 1,100 kilometers (680 miles) away. Plan at least three days here to go hiking in the national park, walk among the penguins on Hammer Island, and try one of the local tea houses. The most popular is La Cabaña, at the foot of the Martial Glacier ski resort. If you’re there in winter, visit one of the three local ski resorts or go on a dog-sledding tour. Overall, it’s an adventure travel hub that deserves a few days before or after your other adventures.

7. Go whale watching

From June to December, whale watching season in Patagonia is at its peak as the whales make their way to the coast to mate. Whale watching is an expensive excursion, but it’s well worth it during migration time as you’re guaranteed to spot a few whales. The Valdes Peninsula is the best place to go on a tour. Only six companies are allowed to operate here so as not to disturb and overwhelm the whales. Expect to see orca, humpback, southern right whales, and blue whales. This is a remote area of Patagonia and the best place to stay nearby is Puerto Madryn. Due to the instability of the Argentine peso, most tour agencies post prices in US dollars. A full day wildlife and whale watching tour costs $145 USD.

8. Discover Quebrada de Humahuaca

The Quebrada de Humahuaca is a 155-kilometer-long (96 mile) valley carved out by the Rio Grande. The deep valley is covered in unique rock formations and has been populated for at least 10,000 years, making the area rich in ancient Incan history and culture. Visit the ancient Inca ruins at Tilcara and see just how much Andean culture still permeates the area. Explore the colonial streets and architecture of the tiny town of Humahuaca, with its bright orange mountain backdrop or walk around behind the mountain on an easy one-hour hike to see dramatic red and purple cliffs.

9. Visit Cajon del Azul

Located in El Bolson, a bohemian town near the Andes Mountains, The Blue Canyon boasts beautiful translucent turquoise waters flanked by rustic suspension bridges, alcoves, and cliffs. It’s a little more deserted than other nature reserves in Argentina, though it’s growing in popularity amongst climbers and fly fishers. If you go, it’s worth spending at least a few days in this area taking advantage of all the outdoor activities.

If you want to hike, there are a myriad of trails you can take, all of varying degrees of difficulty and length. The trails also have the most amount of refugios, or huts, than anywhere else in South America. This means you can plan a single-day trek or a multi-day hike, going from one hut to another for several days until you want to trek back to El Bolson. Before you head out on a hike, though, make sure you stop into the Mountaineering Information Office, or Oficina de Informes de Montañas, to get information about the hike you’re doing. It’s the best way to prepare for a trek here. There’s also a Tourist Information Office that should be helpful too.

10. See Casa Rosada

Dominating the Plaza de Mayo in Buenos Aires is Casa Rosada, the Office of the President and arguably the city’s most notable landmark. The distinctive pink color is said to be due to the mixing of cows’ blood into the paint, to preserve the building. First Lady and labor activist Eva Perón (aka Evita) famously addressed crowds of workers from the building’s balcony (there’s a 1996 film starring Madonna based on her life).

Easily accessible on the city’s Subte metro system, the area around the Casa Rosada is worth visiting for its colonial architecture and famed masterpiece mural by Mexican artist David Alfaro Siquieros in the Casa Rosada Museum. There are, in all, 11,000 pieces of art in the museum. Admission is free but you must register and pick a time and date for your visit.

11. Stroll La Recoleta Cemetery

It might seem a bit morbid to visit a cemetery for pleasure, but Recoleta is one of the city’s most visited attractions. The cemetery is the final resting place of many of the city’s most notable citizens, including Eva Perón and the Paz family. Also worth seeing is the tomb of Rufina Cambaceres, who was tragically buried alive according to legends. It’s open daily from 8am-6pm. Afterwards, walk along Calle Vicente Lopez on the southwest side of the cemetery. It has become one of the hotspots in Buenos Aires for micro-breweries and is a great place to rest your feet after all the walking through the cemetery.

12. Discover San Ignacio Miní

Located in San Ignacio, these 17th-century mission ruins are the most complete in Argentina, with a significant amount of carved ornamentation still visible. Constructed in the Spanish Baroque style and heavily influenced by indigenous designs, the ruins are a beautiful and distinctive reddish color. The visitor center has a lot of background information on the fascinating history of the old mission, and the ruins have interactive panels for more information as well. San Ignacio is the perfect place to stop on your way to or from Iguazú, which is only four hours away. The town is on the Paraná River, near Posadas, where you can easily hop the border to Encarnación in Paraguay. Admission is 1,000 ARS.

13. Take a dip in the Termas de Colón

Located north of Buenos Aires not far from the border with Uruguay, the hot springs here have been a hot secret with in-the-know Porteños (people from BA), for many years. There are 10 different pools to choose from, each one a different temperature and health benefits. If you have kids the Termas de Colón also features kiddie pools and various water slides. The drive from Buenos Aires takes about four hours, making this either a very long day trip or a multi-day trip to the north to relax in the charming town of Colón.

14. Attend a fútbol match at La Bombonera

Visiting the legendary soccer stadium of Boca Junior, one of Buenos Aires’ two professional teams, in the La Boca district is a local experience you won’t want to miss. If they’re playing cross-town rivals, River Plate, even better, but if you’re in town during the soccer season, go to see La Boca playing any team. It’s a lively and sometimes crazy experience. Expect to spend a couple hundred dollars on tickets if you want to see a match. There are also tours of the stadium available too, though those also aren’t cheap at around 82,000 ARS.

15. Browse for books at a world-class bookstore

In Buenos Aires’ Barrio Norte, you’ll find El Ateneo Grand Splendid. Housed in an old theater from 1919, this bookshop has plenty of remnants left over from its days in the performing arts, such as murals on the walls and ceilings, and even balconies. The books on the shelves are mostly in Spanish, though there’s a small English-language section. That said, shopping for a good read here is not really the point. Just stroll around and admire the high ceilings and ornate design of the place. It’s one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world.

  For more information on specific cities in Argentina, check out these guides:

• Mendoza Travel Guide
• Buenos Aires Travel Guide

Argentina Travel Costs

Accommodation – Hostels are widespread throughout the country. Expect to pay 15,000-30,000 ARS for a 6-8-bed dorm room in Buenos Aires, depending on the neighborhood. In smaller towns like Mendoza, expect to pay 8,000-20,000 ARS depending on amenities. Private rooms in a hostel with a shared bath are generally double the price of dorm rooms, costing 20,000-50,000 ARS per night.

Free Wi-Fi is standard and most hostels also have self-catering facilities.

Hotels cost 40,000-60,000 ARS and always include free Wi-Fi, though other perks are generally pretty limited. At a two- or three-star hotel in Argentina you can expect TV (sometimes with international channels), daily housekeeping, bathroom toiletries, and, in some cases, an in-house restaurant, to varying degrees of quality.

Airbnb no longer posts prices in Argentine pesos, but averages $20-$50 USD per night for a private room and $30-$80 for an entire apartment.

Camping is widespread all around the country (including the world-famous Patagonia region), especially near the national parks. Expect to pay around 12,000 ARS for a basic plot for two without electricity.

Food – Argentine food is a mix of Mediterranean influences: first from Spanish colonizers, and later European immigrants in the 19th and 20th centuries, especially from Italy and Spain. Empanadas, pizza, polenta, and pasta all heavily feature in Argentine cuisine.

Argentines are famous for their asado (barbeque) and tremendous consumption of beef, especially steak and ribs. Tomatoes, onions, lettuce, eggplants, squashes, and zucchini are the most common vegetables. Dulce de leche , a caramel sauce made from condensed milk, is a popular sweet.

Yerba mate is the favorite national drink. It’s a caffeinated herbal drink that is prepared in a traditional gourd. It is consumed in social settings by passing around the gourd and its accompanying metal straw.

Overall, food is fairly expensive in Argentina, especially in popular resort and outdoor adventure towns. Take advantage of eating breakfast and lunch specials to get the most out of your money. Breakfast deals go for 1,000-2,000 and usually consist of a coffee and two media lunas, which are like a bready croissant.

Lunch specials vary greatly but are generally around 3,500-4,000 ARS. Meals at a cheap cafe begin at around 2,000-3,000 ARS for a light lunch of a sandwich or salad.

In terms of street food, empanada, choripán (sausage on bread) stands, and local hole-in-the-wall burger and pizza shops are economical and tasty. Empanadas go for around 700 ARS each, choripán for 1000 ARS, and fast food pizza or burgers for around 1500-2000 ARS. Fast food (think Mcdonald’s) is around 2,000 ARS for a combo meal.

In major cities, a dish at a Chinese takeout restaurant is around 8,000 ARS, while a dish at a sit-down Indian restaurant is around 8,000-12,000.

At a nice traditional Argentinian steakhouse, expect to pay 20,000-25,000 ARS for a good steak and wine. At more casual restaurants, steaks cost around 10,000-15,000 ARS, while vegetable-based pasta dishes cost 7,000-8,000 ARS.

In terms of drinks, beer is around 3,000 ARS while a glass of wine is also 3,000 ARS. A cocktail is around 4,000-5,000 ARS and a cappuccino is 3,000 ARS.

If you’re going to grocery shop, expect to spend about 25,000-35,000 ARS per week for groceries, including bottles of wine. This gets you basic staples like rice, beans, pasta, seasonal produce, and some meat.

Backpacking Argentina Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker’s budget, expect to spend at least 31,500 ARS per day. On this suggested budget, you’re staying in a hostel dorm, eating out at the cheap food stalls, cooking most of your meals, using public transportation, limiting your drinking, and doing mostly free activities like hiking and taking free walking tours.

On a mid-range budget of at least 70,000 ARS per day, you can stay in an Airbnb, hotel, or private hostel room, enjoy a few drinks and eat out more, take the occasional taxi, and do whatever tours and activities you want, such as wine tours and dance lessons.

On an upscale budget of at least 135,000 ARS per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink more, go hiking in Patagonia, fly between cities, and do whatever else you want to do. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in ARS.

Argentina Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

While Argentina’s hyperinflation works in most travelers’ favor, it makes certain things in this country more expensive. Tours, food, and alcohol add up quite a bit. There’s a lot of price instability in the country. Here are a few hacks to cut down your costs and not let inflation ruin your fun:

• Use discount cards – Student and teacher discounts can get you incredible savings. You can also use the La Nacion Club and La Nacion Premium Club Cards, associated with La Nacion Newspaper, for discounts. Every week, the La Nacion Club Card website lists participating establishments that give discounts to cardmembers. This is good for travelers spending a long time in the country as you have to sign up for the newspaper.
• Hitchhike – While not common in the north of the country, if you’re in Patagonia, you’ll see many locals and tourists alike hitchhiking, as long-distance buses in that part of the country can be very expensive and infrequent. It’s simply more convenient to hitchhike. This common way to get around is highly recommended.
• Travel off-season – March-June and September-November are the low season when you can find cheaper accommodations and enjoy fewer crowds at attractions.
• Find the cheap eats – Empanada, choripán (sausage on bread) stands, and local hole-in-the-wall burger and pizza shops are your best options for cheap eats. It’s not the healthiest food, but it’s economical and tasty!
• Rent a bike – You can rent bicycles from hostels and rental shops for around 12,00 ARS per day in most major cities. This is especially useful when you’re in Mendoza’s wine country and you’re trying to get from winery to winery.
• Bring a tent – As you start to travel south to Patagonia, accommodation costs get expensive. Hostels are often 20,000 ARS or more a night here (as opposed to as cheap as 10,000 ARS a night in Buenos Aires). Look for camping opportunities as often as possible. When you aren’t in the national parks (where you can obviously camp), many hostels let you pitch your tent for a small fee.
• Stick to wine – 2,000 ARS bottles of wine in the supermarket is a phenomenal deal. Grab a bottle, drink it up. It’s really good too!
• Pack a water bottle – The tap water here is generally safe to drink so bring a water bottle with a filter to save money and reduce your single-use plastic usage. My preferred bottle is LifeStraw as it has a built-in filter to ensure your water is always clean and safe.
• Explore the outdoors – Hiking is free, and throughout the country, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to enjoy this and other outdoor activities since Argentina is blessed with many city parks and nature reserves where you can spend the day wandering around and relaxing. (And, of course, there are a plethora of national parks where you can do multi-day treks!).
• Don’t fly domestically – Thanks to a tax on foreigners, airfare in Argentina for non-residents is quite expensive. Unless you are in a rush, don’t fly. Take the overnight buses. It’s slower but affordable (and often a lot more comfortable).
• Dance for free – If you find yourself in Buenos Aires on a Sunday, you can find free tango events in San Telmo. (On Monday nights, there’s the famous La Bomba de Tiempo, a music and dance event that is well worth the minimal price for admission.)
• Take a free walking tour – There are a number of free walking tours in major cities. They are the best way to get the lay of the land on a budget and connect with a local guide. Just remember to tip your guide at the end. Two companies to try out in the capital city are Buenos Aires Free Tour and Free Walks Buenos Aires.

Where to Stay in Argentina

Looking for budget-friendly accommodation? Here are some of my suggested places to stay in Argentina:

• Milhouse Hostel (Buenos Aires)
• Up Viamonte Hotel (Buenos Aires)
• Sabatico Travelers Hostel (Buenos Aires)
• Villaggio Hotel Boutique (Mendoza)
• Gorilla Hostel (Mendoza)
• Alto Andino Hotel (Ushuaia)
• Cruz del Sur Hostel (Ushuaia)
• Antarctica Hostel (Ushuaia)

How to Get Around Argentina

Public transportation – Buenos Aires is the only city in Argentina with a subway system (the Subte). The subway runs from 5:30am-11:30pm on weekdays, 6am-midnight on Saturdays, and 8am-10:30pm on Sundays.

Public buses are the most common way to travel within the cities. In Buenos Aires, a one-way fare is around 1,000 ARS per trip. In Mendoza, fares start at 800 ARS.

In Buenos Aires, Mendoza, and Mar del Plata you need a transit card to use the public transit, while smaller areas take cash. You can find these cards at kiosks all over the place.

Taxis – Taxis are very affordable in Argentina. Prices start around 500 ARS and go up by around 300 ARS per kilometer. That said, public transportation can usually get you anywhere you need to be so you can likely skip the taxis here.

Buses – Argentina boasts an outstanding short and long-distance bus network. It is common to have food served on board as well as Wi-Fi and alcohol on long-distance buses. For example, the ride from Buenos Aires to Mendoza takes about 14.5 hours and tickets begin at 10,000 ARS. A 10-hour trip from Bariloche to El Calafate (in Patagonia) starts from 20,000 ARS, while the bus from Buenos Aires to El Calafate is 50,000 ARS.

A “shorter” journey like Mendoza to Salta in 7 hours costs about 35,000 ARS. You can take the overnight bus and then save on accommodation since you’ll be sleeping on the bus.

Flying – Flying around South America isn’t very cheap, and Argentina is no exception as fares are taxed highly for foreigners (it subsidizes cheap fares for residents). However, it might be worth it for you if you’re short on time as those 14-hour bus rides are not an efficient way to travel. Argentina’s two most popular airlines are Aerolíneas Argentinas (the domestic carrier) and LATAM.

You can fly from Buenos Aires to El Calafate for 340,000 ARS return, or Buenos Aires to Bariloche for 190,000 ARS return. You’ll get better deals the further out that you book your tickets.

Train – Argentina’s rail system only goes to three places: Buenos Aires, Cordoba, and Rosario. The train from Buenos Aires to Cordoba costs about 28,400 ARS. There are also train journeys aimed specifically at travelers, like the epic Train to the Clouds that begins in Salta and passes through the Andres. It’s one of the highest railways in the world. There’s also La Trochita, the Old Patagonian Express between Esquel and El Maiten for 30,000 ARS.

Hitchhike – Argentina is easy and safe for hitchhikers. You can find rides throughout the country, and Argentines are naturally curious about foreigners. There’s a good chance you’ll end up crammed into a car with an entire family! Hitchwiki has information on hitchhiking in Argentina if you want to give it a try.

When to Go to Argentina

Argentina is enormous. The best time of year to visit entirely depends on what regions you plan on traveling around.

Argentina’s spring is from September to November. This is one of the best times to visit overall (although it’s still very cold in Patagonia). Average temperatures range from 14°C (57°F) in the center, 8-14°C (46-57°F) in Patagonia, and about 20°C (68°F) in the north.

Summer is from December to February. This is the best season for spending time in the Andean mountains. It’s also the best time to travel to Tierra del Fuego, although there still might be snow. The north is a lot warmer, and Buenos Aires can get hot and sticky. Temperatures can get as high as 26°C (79°F).

Autumn (March-April) is another great time to visit, especially in the San Juan and Mendoza regions for the wine harvests. Temperatures here are 6-14°C (42-58°F). Patagonia is stunning this time of year with its bright autumn colors as well.

Winter is from June to August when temperatures dip to 8–13°C (46–55°F). This is the ideal time to visit if you’re a skier hoping to hit up the ski resorts. It’s not a great time for visiting Patagonia, however; bad weather can leave you stranded, and a lot of places are closed from Easter to October.

How to Stay Safe in Argentina

Argentina is a safe place to backpack and travel. While violent crime here is rare, petty theft and pickpocketing is on the rise so you’ll need to be vigilant. Don’t flaunt expensive jewelry or belongings while you’re out and about and always keep your wallet secure and out of reach. Cell phone theft is incredibly common and thieves sometimes literally snatch the phone right from your hand in broad daylight so be on guard and never bring your phone out in public. If you need to use it, step inside a shop just to be safe.

If taking an overnight bus, lock your bag and make sure your valuables are secure. If you rent a car, always keep it locked and never store anything in it overnight as break-ins can occur.

Female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (don’t walk around at night intoxicated, never leave your drink unattended at the bar, etc.). Whenever possible, avoid walking around at night (especially if you’re alone). Even during the day, it’s best to walk around in groups when you can as you’ll be less of a target that way. If you’re carrying a purse, wear it across your chest so it can’t easily be snatched (a backpack is a better/safer choice, though).

When taking out money from an ATM, make sure to use a machine inside the bank so that you can safely access your money without prying eyes or people ready to rob you.

Scams here are rare, but they can occur. To avoid getting ripped off, read about common travel scams to avoid here .

Always check the weather before you go hiking and make sure you dress appropriately and bring enough water.

If you experience an emergency, dial 911 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Argentina Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Argentina Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Argentina travel and continue planning your trip:

18 of the Best Spots in Patagonia

Patagonia: Thoughts on Getting Offline and Trying to Camp

12 Ways to Save Money in Argentina

16 Amazing Photos from My Visit to Torres Del Paine

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GOBankingRates

7 Easy, Affordable Countries To Visit as an American Tourist

Posted: April 26, 2023 | Last updated: June 28, 2023

Summer travel is upon us, and maybe this year you've got your sights set on somewhere more far-flung than the United States. Travel abroad can be incredibly enriching and full of new experiences you can't get at home.

See:  10 US Cities With Plenty of Jobs and Cheap Housing Find:  How To Build a Financial Plan From Zero

However, the cost to travel internationally can sometimes be prohibitive. Because of this, GOBankingRates contacted several travel experts to recommend the most affordable countries for Americans to visit right now -- like these seven.

Charles Neville, with JayWay Travel , a specialist European custom tour provider, recommends Albania for food lovers.

He says, "Expect exceptional local produce and abundant fresh fish and seafood from the Adriatic and Ionian seas, combined with hearty traditional meat dishes, and more-than-decent local wine. Hotels work out to less than half what you'd pay for an equivalent property in western Europe."

Alex Gillard, the founder of Nomad Nature Travel , also raves about Albania, calling it "a great, relatively undiscovered country to visit as an American tourist."

He adds, "Depending on the season, you can get a 500 to 600 dollar round-trip flight. I've spent months in Albania and it is very safe, the food is an affordable and incredible mix of Greek, Italian and local fare, and you can rent a car and get around their beautiful country for very cheap."

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Ande Wanderer, a travel writer and owner and editor of the travel site, Wander Argentina recommends Argentina not only for its affordable travel, but its excellent track record with COVID-19.

"We have had continuous days with zero Covid deaths and 90% of the country is fully vaccinated." Additionally, there are no vaccine requirements to enter the country.

She calls it one of the most affordable countries in the world to visit right now, where visitors "get double the pesos for their dollars." She recommends coastal Patagonia around Puerto Madryn to see whales, elephant seals, sea lions, and dolphins.

Also, Buenos Aires is a culinary lover's best bet, "with $12 steak and Malbec dinners, never-ending cultural events...weekly street fairs such as the huge San Telmo Flea Market, all night milongas and dancing in the street, especially on Argentina's Independence Day, July 9."

Andy Turlington, owner and travel advisor at Wildest Dreams Bookings in North Carolina, recommends Cuba, which is a short flight from Florida -- only about 100 miles from Key West.

"Cuba [has] interesting architecture, and the cars are a step back in time. Hotels in Havana start at about 50 U.S. dollars per night, but they have an Airbnb equivalent called 'Casa Particulars,' and many of them can be had for roughly 30 U.S. dollars per night."

This South American country is also extremely affordable. Turlington says, "You can easily get by in this country on about 30 to 50 U.S. dollars a day."

He especially recommends the capital city of Quito, where meals can usually be had for less than five U.S. dollars. Additionally, a taxi will cost about two dollars "to pretty much anywhere," and the bus costs about 35 cents. "Hotels can easily be had for less than 35 U.S. dollars a night, and for the ultra-cheap, they have plenty of hostels as well for about 10 U.S. dollars."

A country that's super affordable for an American tourist is Panama, according to Becca Siegel and Dan Gold, owners of the travel blog HalfHalfTravel.com . "The reason is that flights are often cheap from major hubs, especially if you can fly to Miami first, or through Miami with a short layover."

Once you land in Panama, they say that food, tours and accommodation are extremely affordable. "In Panama City alone, you can go walking in Casco Viejo, see the Panama Canal, excellent museums and experience great nightlife and culture."

An extra bonus is that Panama uses the U.S. Dollar, so you won't have to do any currency exchanges, which they say is "super convenient for lots of American visitors."

South Africa

Todd Sarouhan, owner of Go Visit San Diego and Go Visit Costa Rica, recommends Cape Town, South Africa for an affordable travel experience.

He says, "The most affordable countries are the ones where the exchange rate is in favor of the US Dollar. Cape Town is no stranger to being voted the best city in the world, the last time and for the seventh time running in 2019. Cape Town is a coastal gem, lying in the shadow of a cloud-hugged mountain where wine flows, penguins waddle and there's always something to do."

Turkey is a great option for tourists wanting to go to Europe, Turlington says. "The lira has been greatly depreciated over the last 2 years or so, making Turkey a bargain hunter's paradise."

Istanbul offers some incredible cuisine, and plenty of historical locations and different architecture and religious sites. Istanbul has copious amounts of good hotels in the 50 US Dollar range as well. Armenia and Georgia are also lower cost options in this area of Europe.

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'Conan O'Brien Must Go' is side-splitting evidence of life beyond late night TV

Eric Deggans

Conan O'Brien dresses as a Viking in Norway. Conaco/Max hide caption

Conan O'Brien dresses as a Viking in Norway.

To be honest, when I first heard Conan O'Brien was ending his TV talk show in 2021, I assumed news that he might turn to variety shows and online programs to continue his career was some combination of face-saving and wishful thinking.

But after watching the four episodes of his new Max series Conan O'Brien Must Go , it's now obvious — even to a thickheaded critic like me — that leaving late night TV really was liberating for O'Brien. He's leveraged his unique sensibility into several different podcasts, a deal with Sirius XM , specials featuring other stand-up comics and now this travel series for Max — which resembles jokey specials he did for cable channel TBS back in the day.

And as the late night TV genre crumbles under sagging viewership and the decline of traditional media, O'Brien's renaissance also provides an example for the future — where fertile comedy minds and talented performers can spread their work over a much larger canvas.

Pop Culture Happy Hour

Is conan o'brien the best 'hot ones' guest ever discuss., learning a lesson from 'hot ones'.

O'Brien already made a splash recently with his brilliantly maniacal appearance on the interview-while-eating-hot-wings show Hot Ones , slobbering over hot sauces while claiming, as he was checked over by a fake doctor, that "I'm fine! I'm perfectly f*****g fine!"

This is the place where O'Brien shines — he's called it "this strange phantom intersection between smart and stupid" — and it's on full, freakish, super silly display in every episode of Conan O'Brien Must Go .

The conceit of the show is pretty simple. O'Brien heads overseas to visit average folks in Norway, Argentina, Thailand and Ireland who had once Zoomed in to speak with him on the podcast Conan O'Brien Needs a Fan . Sometimes the visits seem like a surprise — he catches one aspiring Norwegian rapper in shorts and Crocs after popping up on his doorstep — and others seem a bit more planned, including his visit to a radio show with about four listeners in Buenos Aires.

Each episode begins with a solemn monologue which sounds like it is delivered by the film world's most eccentric voice, German filmmaker and actor Werner Herzog (he's not credited in the show and when asked, a publicist at Max shared a quote from O'Brien: "I can neither confirm nor deny the voice in question.")

The torturous accent by "Herzog" makes every line sound absurdly hilarious, describing O'Brien as "the defiler ... with dull, tiny eyes ... the eyes of a crudely painted doll ... he scavenges in distant lands, uninvited, fueled by a bottomless hunger for recognition and the occasional selfie."

Now that's smart. And oh so stupid.

A funhouse mirror version of a travel show

O'Brien performs onstage with a fan in Norway Conaco/Max hide caption

O'Brien performs onstage with a fan in Norway

Fans of O'Brien's Conan Without Borders specials on TBS already know what his style is when he tackles a travel show — throwing himself into outrageous reactions and situations while working his quirky brand of improvised conversations with hapless bystanders.

In the Max series Conan O'Brien Must Go , that includes O'Brien offering screechy vocals onstage during a performance of a Norwegian emo/rap band. Or asking provocative questions of a couple therapist/sex expert. Or getting beat up in a "fight" with a 10-year-old boy in a bar.

It's all an excuse for O'Brien to unleash his energetic wit, taste for silly absurdity and skill at drawing laughs from sympathetic — if often befuddled — strangers. Whether you enjoy this special will depend on how you feel about O'Brien's style, which can feel a bit like the world's best class clown doing everything possible to make you crack a smile.

(Rent a family in Norway so they can say goodbye when he gets on a SeaCraft? Check. Get local artists to paint a mural of O'Brien, a soccer star and The Pope on the side of a building in Argentina? Double check.)

'Conan O'Brien Needs A Friend' Is A Joke Name For A Podcast — Sort Of

But what amazes in a larger sense is how O'Brien has turned his sensibility into a comedy brand to fuel work on many different platforms. And, at age 60, with more than 30 years as a comedy star, he's been released from the shackles of any genre to shine wherever he chooses — whether it's an episode of Hot Ones or a streaming service which sometimes looks like a collision between True Detective and 90 Day Fiancé .

Leaving late night TV as late night left him

I'm old enough that I started covering TV not long after O'Brien made his first move from the shadows of life as a comedy writer – he worked on Saturday Night Live and The Simpsons — to succeed David Letterman in 1993 as host of NBC's show Late Night (now hosted by Seth Meyers). Back then, NBC gave O'Brien years to figure out the show, honing his smartly serious comedy in a way that would inspire then-teenage fans like Seth Rogen and Bill Hader .

O'Brien left NBC after a disastrous deal where the network tried to make him host of its venerated late night program The Tonight Show and also keep its former host Jay Leno at the network. He moved to a late night show on TBS in 2010, but even then, there was a sense that his creativity was a bit hemmed in by the format.

After 28 Quirky Years, Conan O'Brien Is Leaving Late Night

By the time he left his TBS show Conan for good, it seemed O'Brien was already caught in a trend which would hobble other late night shows — as young viewers consumed his content online and ratings on cable dropped.

Now, with a podcast and digital media company worth many millions and growing status as a TV comedy legend still willing to do almost anything for a laugh, O'Brien is proving there is a successful life beyond late night.

Particularly, if you have the talent to play the fool while leaving little doubt you're also the smartest person in the room.

‘Conan O’Brien Must Go’ Is a Keeper: TV Review

Legendary talk show host and hot wing evangelist returns to television with hilarious new Max travel show

By Stephen Rodrick

Stephen Rodrick

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The key to understanding Conan O’Brien’s comedy is knowing that it comes from a point of kindness. Yes, I know in this age of comics punching down , this kind of compliment may leave you with a neon “Must Avoid!” sign flashing in your bleary eyes — but stay with me.

Popular on Variety

Conan’s three-decade run as a talk show host ended in 2021 under less-than-optimal circumstances , as he wound down his TBS show during the pandemic year. He talked to longtime sidekick Andy Richter , who sat among dozens of cardboard cutout fans. O’Brien quipped that they were last in line for the vaccine because the CDC had looked at the shows and “they said ours is the least essential of pretty much all the non-essential shows.”

There was some truth in that, but Conan had already started his move to other outlets , starting with his “Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend” podcast in 2018.

The podcast is funny and sweet, especially the pre-interview segments with longtime associate Sona Movsesian and producer Matt Gourley. Conan mocks Sona’s legendarily bad work habits. and Gourley’s flea market predilections, but any kind of comedic acid is reserved for the self-lacerating O’Brien. (On a recent episode, Conan runs down his own looks, and it is cruel and hilarious, but part of me is thinking, “Dude, cut yourself a break.”). The only time things get contentious is when Conan visited by longtime friend Kevin Nealon — perhaps the podcast’s best episodes.

The podcast had an offshoot called “Conan O’Brien Needs a Fan,” on which O’Brien would talk to a fan, often in a faraway land. That led to O’Brien traveling to Norway, Thailand, Ireland and Argentina to meet them. Why? Well, a dour and ominous narrator, aka Werner Herzog, offered this rationale at the beginning of each episode: “Once a proud talk show host, he’s been driven by a changing ecosystem to a drier and harsher climate: the weekly podcast. Here , without the nourishment of his studio audience, this clown with dull , tiny eyes, the eye of a crudely painted doll , is forced to feed on that meagerest of morsels: the random call-in fan. Unhinged by the feral scent of their mild enthusiasm. He scavenges in distant lands uninvited, fueled by a bottomless hunger for recognition , and the occasional selfie.”

It’s a self-deprecating bit, but it’s also the truth. Conan has been doing travel shows for years, most notably one to Movsesian’s native Armenia , as well as a chaotic trip to Finland where O’Brien is treated as a god because of his physical resemblance to the Finnish president who happens to be a woman. He clearly loves the journey. And he loves the comedy set piece–see his classic “Old Timey Baseball” opus — which has always been an essential part of his appeal.

The encounters work because O’Brien doesn’t treat his new friends as fools — rather , he revels in the fact that he is the fool. (See his instant-classic appearance on “Hot Ones,” the show where interviews are conducted while the celebrity consumes increasingly acidic chicken wings. Conan rhapsodizes on comedy being all around us as green-yellow mucus drips down his nose.) Of course, there are exceptions made for old friends. Conan goes out for asada in Buenos Aires with the effete and erudite Jordan Schlansky, a longtime producer and frenemy. Schlansky and Conan are the Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon of American cable , and on his TBS show and podcast the two have tangled over Japanese customs, Conan hosting Schlansky’s bachelor party in his own office, and Schlansky hiding an expensive Espresso machine in an inaccessible part of their offices. (As with the Courtney Thorne-Smith segment, Conan’s visceral malice toward Schlansky works because it is so out-of-character).

During the Argentina episode, they get into a fierce argument about the proper pronunciation of the word “tango,” Conan then licks Schlansky’s favorite cut of meat — wait, that came out wrong. After, they go on an ill-fated trip to the Pampas, where both fail spectacularly at gaucho life.

Not everything works. O’Brien does a self-referential bit about the expensive drone he is using on the first show , and for the next four episodes I am distracted every time I see a beautiful shot thinking about the drone’s specifications and capabilities. Some of the stuff goes on a bit long, but so does my writing.

These are minor quibbles. If you’re a Conan fan, you’ll treasure the trips, just like his completists treasure encounters with a masturbating bear. The series ends with Conan tracing his family’s roots in Ireland. He comes across his ancestor’s land, makes a few jokes, but then looks at the land, clearly moved. Conan O’Brien has played the fool long enough; we grant him this moment of humanity with all our hearts.

All four episodes of “Conan O’Brien Must Go” are now available on Max.

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Argentina's top 10 experiences will thrill visitors

Dec 13, 2021 • 5 min read

Tango dancers help bring the streets to life in Buenos Aires © Alexandr Vorobev / Shutterstock

Round up the best of Argentina – the wine, the fishing, the tango, the mountaineering, the skiing, the literature, the beef, the architecture, the clubbing – and you have the building blocks for one of the most exciting journeys you’ll ever take.

It's time to start planning your trip now as  Argentina has now reopened to vaccinated travelers . While the safety and health protocols will be heightened, you'll find a country eager to welcome travelers back. Here's your handy guide to the best things to experience on your first vivist to Argentina.

Stretching nearly the whole length of Argentina’s western edge, this amazing mountain range offers high deserts, scenic lakes, great hiking and the continent’s highest peak, Cerro Aconcagua often called the "roof of the Americas." In the Andean northwest, the World Heritage–listed Quebrada de Humahuaca snakes its way upward toward Bolivia. It’s a harsh but vivid landscape, a dry but river-scoured canyon overlooked by mountainsides whose sedimentary strata have been eroded into spectacular scalloped formations that reveal a spectrum of colors in undulating waves.

Iguazú Falls

There are waterfalls. And then there’s Iguazú .  A visit is a jaw-dropping, visceral experience, and the power and noise of the cascades live forever in the memory. An added benefit is the setting: the falls lie split between Brazil and Argentina in a large expanse of national park and rainforest. The falls are easily reached from either side of the Argentine–Brazilian border, as well as from nearby Paraguay . Most visitors choose either to stay in Foz do Iguaçu, on the Brazilian side, or in Argentina’s Puerto Iguazú.

Buenos Aires

The Argentine capital is one of the world’s most exhilarating cities, with astounding art, fascinating neighborhoods, fabulous food and a population blazingly devoted to having fun all…night…long. Marvel at those amazingly high leg kicks at a tango show in San Telmo, feast on steaks at Palermo's Las Cañitas or wander for hours in the Recoleta cemetery, where BA's rich and famous are buried.

Glaciar Perito Moreno

Among the Earth’s most dynamic and accessible ice fields, Glaciar Perito Moreno is the stunning centerpiece of the southern sector of Parque Nacional Los Glaciares . Locally referred to as Glaciar Moreno, it measures 30km long, 5km wide and 60m high, but what makes it exceptional in the world of ice is its constant advance – up to 2m per day, causing building-sized icebergs to calve from its face. In some ways, watching the glacier is a very sedentary park experience, but it manages to nonetheless be thrilling.

Go on, give it a try. So what if it’s one of the world’s most sophisticated dances. It’s so sexy, you’ll be fired up enough to make it through that long Buenos Aires night.  For a unique outdoor experience, head to the bandstand at the Barrancas de Belgrano park in Buenos Aires , where the casual milonga ‘La Glorieta’ takes place on Sunday evenings at around 8pm (free tango lessons are given earlier).

Reserva Faunística Península Valdés

Unesco World Heritage site Península Valdés is one of South America’s finest wildlife reserves. More than 80,000 visitors per year visit this sanctuary, which has a total area of 3600 sq km and more than 400km of coastline. The wildlife viewing is truly exceptional: the peninsula is home to sea lions, elephant seals, guanacos, rheas, Magellanic penguins and numerous seabirds. But the biggest attraction is the endangered ballena franca austral (southern right whale).

Exploring Argentina by the glass will take you – and your palate – from the malbecs and cabernets of Mendoza to the crisp torrontés of Cafayate and to the succulent syrahs of San Juan. The small town of Maipú, near Mendoza, is so packed with wineries, olive oil farms and other gourmet businesses that it’s easy to hit five or six in a day. All offer tours and most finish proceedings with at least a small sampling of their produce. A few companies in Maipú rent bikes and electric scooters, making a day tour of the area an excellent outing (being mindful of drinking and riding, of course).

Tierra del Fuego

Maybe it’s the austral light, or just knowing that the next step south is Antarctica. Whatever it is, this trove of mystical islands, cut off from the northern world by the Straight of Magellan, is indescribably magical. A storied past of shipwrecks, failed religious missions and indigenous heritage contributes to the powerful mystique of this end-of-the-earth location. Travelers flock here to glimpse the furthest reaches of the continent, and ah – what a view it is! The barren northern plains of Tierra del Fuego give way to peat bogs and moss-draped lenga forests that rise into ragged snowy mountains.

In 2006 Córdoba was awarded the hefty title of Cultural Capital of the Americas, and it fits the city like a glove. Four excellent municipal galleries – dedicated to emerging, contemporary, classical and fine art respectively – are within easy walking distance of each other and the city center. The alternative film scene is alive and kicking. Young designers and artisans strut their stuff at a weekend crafts market that sprawls for blocks and is one of the best in the country. And if all this action is too much for you, quaint little mountain villages are a short bus ride away.

Whether you’re dining on prime cuts from a swanky Buenos Aires parrilla (grill) or digging into a sizzling tabletop grill of chewy, flavorful, close-to-the-bone cuts in a family-style eatery, you’re bound to get your fill of Argentina’s most famous food. Here is a guide to some prime cuts:

• bife de chorizo – sirloin; a thick, juicy and popular cut
• bife de costilla – T-bone; a cut close to the bone; also called chuleta
• bife de lomo – tenderloin; a thinly cut, more tender piece
• cuadril – rump steak; often a thin cut
• ojo de bife – ribeye; a choice smaller morsel
• tira de asado – shortribs; thin strips of ribs and meat sliced crosswise
• vacío – flank steak; textured and chewy, but very tasty

You might also like: When is the best time to go to Argentina? The best things you can do for free in Buenos Aires

This article was first published April 2019 and updated December 2021

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Argentine students and professors protest university budget cuts under Milei

BUENOS AIRES, Argentina — Raising their textbooks and diplomas and singing the national anthem, hundreds of thousands of Argentines filled the streets of Buenos Aires and other cities on Tuesday to demand increased funding for the country’s public universities, in an outpouring of anger at libertarian President Javier Milei’s harsh austerity measures.

The scale of the demonstration in downtown Buenos Aires appeared to exceed other massive demonstrations that have rocked the capital since Milei came to power.

Students and professors coordinated with the country’s powerful trade unions and leftist political parties to push back against budget cuts that have forced Argentina’s most venerable university to declare a financial emergency and warn of imminent closure.

In a sign unrest was growing in response to Milei’s policies, even conservative politicians, private university administrators and right-wing TV personalities joined the march, defending the common cause of public education in Argentina that has underpinned the country’s social progress for decades.

“It is historic,” said Ariana Thiele Lara, a 25-year-old recent graduate protesting. “It feels like we were all united.”

Describing universities as bastions of socialism where professors indoctrinate their students,  Milei  has tried to dismiss the university budget crisis as politics as usual.

“The cognitive dissonance that brainwashing generates in public education is tremendous,” he said.

At the University of Buenos Aires, or UBA, halls went dark, elevators froze and air conditioning stopped working in some buildings last week. Professors taught 200-person lectures without microphones or projectors because the public university couldn’t cover its electricity bill.

“It’s an unthinkable crisis,” said Valeria Añón, a 50-year-old literature professor at the university. “I feel sad for my students and for myself as professor and researcher.”

In his drive to reach zero deficit, Milei is  slashing spending across Argentina  — shuttering ministries, defunding cultural centers, laying off state workers and cutting subsidies. On Monday he had something to show for it, announcing Argentina’s first quarterly fiscal surplus since 2008 and promising the public the pain would pay off.

“We are making the impossible possible even with the majority of politics, unions, the media and most economic actors against us,” he said in a televised address.

On Tuesday, the footfall of protesters resounded in the city center. “Why are you so scared of public education?” banners asked. “The university will defend itself!” students shouted.

“We are trying to show the government it cannot take away our right to education,” said Santiago Ciraolo, a 32-year-old student in social communication protesting Tuesday. “Everything is at stake here.”

Since last July, when the fiscal year began, the state has provided the University of Buenos Aires with just 8.9% of its total budget as  annual inflation  now hovers near 290%. The university says that’s barely enough to keep lights on and provide basic services in teaching hospitals that have already cut capacity.

The university warned last week that without a rescue plan, the school would shut down in the coming months, stranding 380,000 students mid-degree. It’s a shock for Argentines who consider a free and quality university education a birthright. UBA has a proud intellectual tradition, having produced five Nobel Prize winners and 17 presidents.

“I’ve been given access to a future, to opportunities through this university that otherwise my family and many others at our income level could never afford,” said Alex Vargas, a 24-year-old economics student. “When you step back, you see how important this is for our society.”

President Milei came to power last December, inheriting an economy in shambles after years of chronic overspending and suffocating international debt. Brandishing a chainsaw during his campaign to symbolize slashing the budget, he repeats a simple catchphrase to compatriots reeling from budget cuts and the peso’s 50% devaluation: “There is no money.”

Overall, Argentina puts 4.6% of its gross domestic product into education. Public universities are also free for international pupils, drawing legions of students from across Latin America, Spain and further afield. Critics of the system want foreign students to pay dues.

“Where I’m from, high-quality education is unfortunately a privilege, not a basic right,” said Sofia Hernandez, a 21-year-old from Bogota, Colombia studying medicine at UBA. “In Argentina there is a model that I wish more countries could have.”

The government said late Monday it was sending some $24.5 million to cover maintenance costs at public universities and another $12 million to keep medical centers operating.

“The discussion is settled,” presidential spokesperson Manuel Adorni said.

University authorities disagreed, saying the promised transfer — which they still have not received — covers a fraction of what they need. For UBA, that means a 61% annual budget cut.

The teachers also need attention, said Matías Ruiz, UBA’s treasury secretary. They have seen their income decline in value more than 35% in the past four months. Staff salaries can be as low as $150 a month. Professors juggle multiple jobs to scrape by.

“We’ve had funding and salary freezes under previous right-wing governments but these cuts are three times worse,” said Ines Aldao, a 44-year-old literature professor at UBA.

The angry students, teachers and workers snaked through the capital’s streets just hours after Milei declared economic victory from his presidential palace.

“We are building a new era of prosperity in Argentina,” Milei told the public, boasting that Argentina had posted a quarterly fiscal surplus of 0.2% of gross domestic product.

A huge banner hanging over downtown Buenos Aires presented a choice: Milei or public education?

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