argentina travel blogs

Argentina Travel Blogs

These are all of my travel blogs about argentina. .

From exploring the exciting capital of Buenos Aires, to incredible adventures in the wine regions and beautiful scenery in the Andes, find out the best places to travel to in my South America travel blogs and travel guides.

Happy exploring!

Uco Valley Wine Tour, Mendoza, Argentina

With beautiful wineries, vineyards and top restaurants, find out whether going on an Uco Valley wine tour is the best way to explore this region near Mendoza, Argentina.

It was just after 9am, and all I could think about was wine. It may sound like I’m bordering on alcoholism but no, I was in Mendoza, Argentina – an area known specifically for its production of Malbec. Today, I’d be learning about wine, exploring a few vineyards and hopefully tasting a whole load too.

In the safe hands of Kahuak (one of Mendoza’s top tourism agencies) and with bubbly tour guide Anna Laura leading the way, we headed out of the city to the Uco Valley. The tour would take us towards the snow-capped Andes to visit three of the Uco Valley’s top wineries – Salentein , Domaine Bousquet and Andeluna .

The valley lies around 150km south of Mendoza. It’s a lush region

REVIEW: Villa Mansa Wine Hotel & Spa, Lujan de Cujo, Argentina

Lush gardens, ancient vines, bright blue sky with pool to match, a gourmet restaurant and views of the snow-capped Andes… Villa Mansa is a secret hideaway in the heart of Mendoza’s wine country.

After escaping the traffic of downtown Mendoza, we found ourselves in the  picturesque countryside, passing several upmarket hotels, wineries and mansions along the way. My main reason for wanting to visit the region was for the Malbec, but on top of the incredible wine, it turned out to be a great spot for a bit of R&R. Villa Mansa is at the end of a long, narrow drive, which opens out onto several rows of beautiful grapevines and antique wine making equipment.

Ziplining In Argentina – A Canopy Tour Over Potrerillos Dam, Mendoza

Find out all about ziplining in Argentina, at Potrerillos Dam close to Mendoza.

As I was handed a large blue hard hat, I knew straight away it wouldn’t fit. “I have a weirdly small head,” I said. They handed me another, and again it wobbled around. “Hmmmm…” I blushed. “Do you have any for children?”

Helmet on and mild humiliation almost over, I fixed the GoPro to my head, clambered into my harness, and waddled over to the first high line. I was about to go ziplining in one of the most beautiful places on the planet.

Ready For Another Adventure?

Today’s the day I leave for South America! Over the next 24 hours I’ll be flying from London – Atlanta – Santiago, Chile.

While most of my trips happen reasonably last-minute, this is different. A few months ago, the idea was floated of visiting Chile for a month. I’ll admit, Chile is not a place that was on my ‘must visit’ list for this year.  I’d had vague plans to head to The Philippines and Thailand, as well as my resolution to see more of the UK in 2016. So where did this fit in? Was it sensible to go? No, probably not. Did I want to go? Hell yes!

Contiki’s South American Adventure – Argentina and Brazil Tour

Find out all about Contiki ‘s South American Adventure tour. It’s the perfect introduction to Argentina and Brazil.

Argentina Travel Guide: My Personal Recommendations

Welcome to Argentina! If this is your first time travelling to Argentina and Buenos Aires, then this Argentina travel guide is for you. I’ve spent over 3 weeks exploring Argentina in April 2024, and I have my best tips right here in this blog to help make your trip to Argentina unforgettable. 

Table of Contents

How is buenos aires.

Buenos Aires, the capital of Argentina, is the most European-looking city in Latin America.   

The capital of Argentina is a huge and colourful city. You’ll want to spend days exploring the streets and admiring its European-influenced architecture. You can use public transport to go all around the city. The Metro works just fine, and trips are cheap. 

But once you are in Buenos, you’ll discover that Argentina struggles with its ever-increasing inflation. Locals love their pets, and traffic gets crazy at rush hour. Argentina is a huge producer of wine, and the local obsessions are mate, a tea that is drunk with a special straw, and the alfajor, a specific biscuit to have with your coffee or tea. 

Argentina sees itself as the capital of culture on the South American continent, and it’s obvious to see why. The vibrant art scene, literary heritage, and thriving art galleries are all testimony to Buenos Aires’ cultural richness. 

Oh, and let’s not forget the tango music and dance, which was invented here, and you can choose from a variety of tango shows daily to enjoy it. 

Best time to visit Argentina

Argentina experiences diverse climates due to its vast size and varying geography. If you have looked at the map of South America, then you must know that Argentina is absolutely huge, and that’s why it offers a bunch of very different climates. 

That’s why it is absolutely necessary to plan your trip to Argentina and have an idea of where you want to go and where, because you will need to pack different clothes for different types of weather. I know I did. 

To give you an idea of what the weather in Argentina looks like, here is the climate in Argentina for each of its major regions:

• Northern regions: Subtropical climate with hot, humid summers and mild winters.
• Central regions (including Buenos Aires): Temperate climate with four distinct seasons.
• Western Andes: Alpine climate with cold winters and mild summers.
• Southern Patagonia: Cold, windy climate with harsh winters and cool summers.
• Eastern coastal regions: Maritime climate with mild temperatures year-round.

One thing that I realised very late in my life is that I am from Europe .

Being in the Southern Hemisphere means the seasons are opposite to those in the Northern Hemisphere. So, while it’s summer in North America and Europe, it’s winter in Argentina, and vice versa. This should be considered when planning activities and packing attire for a trip to Argentina.

Seasons in Argentina, and when is the best time to go to each region

Spring (September to November):

• Buenos Aires: Pleasant weather with blooming jacaranda trees.
• Mendoza: Ideal for wine tasting as vineyards come to life.
• Patagonia: Wildlife spotting and hiking in national parks with milder temperatures.

Summer (December to February):

• Beaches: Enjoy the Atlantic coastline, which includes Mar del Plata and Pinamar.
• Bariloche: Popular for outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and skiing (in higher elevations).
• Buenos Aires: Summers are the ideal time for city exploration and cultural activities.

Autumn (March to May):

• Wine Regions: Harvest festivals in Mendoza and Cafayate offer wine tastings and cultural events.
• Northwest: Pleasant temperatures for exploring the rugged landscapes of Salta and Jujuy.
• Buenos Aires: Tango festivals and cultural events.

Winter (June to August):

• Andes Ski Resorts: Hit the slopes in Bariloche, Las Leñas, or Chapelco.
• Southern Patagonia: Whale watching in Peninsula Valdés or exploring glaciers in Los Glaciares National Park. But it will be very cold, as you are super close to Antarctica. 
• Iguazu Falls: Witness the falls in their full glory with lush vegetation.

Of course, you can choose to visit any part of Argentina, at any time, as flights run throughout the year, but the climate changes dramatically, and you have to go prepared. 

Argentina’s cultural heritage 

Argentina’s cultural heritage is a rich tapestry woven from diverse influences, shaped by centuries of history, immigration, and indigenous traditions. Here’s a brief overview:

• Before the arrival of European colonisers, Argentina was inhabited by various indigenous groups such as the Mapuche, Quechua, and Guarani.
• These indigenous cultures contributed to Argentina’s cultural landscape through their languages, customs, and artistic expressions, which are still preserved in some regions today.
• Argentina was colonized by Spain in the 16th century, leading to the introduction of Spanish language, religion (Catholicism), and customs.
• Colonial architecture, particularly evident in cities like Buenos Aires and Cordoba, reflects this period of Spanish rule.
• From the late 19th to the early 20th century, Argentina experienced significant waves of immigration, primarily from Europe.
• The largest groups of immigrants came from Italy and Spain, followed by other European countries such as Germany, France, and the United Kingdom.
• This influx of immigrants brought diverse cultural traditions, cuisines, music, and arts, contributing to Argentina’s multicultural identity.
• Italian immigrants, in particular, had a profound impact on Argentine culture, shaping its culinary scene with dishes like pizza, pasta, and gelato.
• Tango, Argentina’s iconic dance and music genre, has strong Italian influences, blending European and African rhythms.
• Argentina is also home to significant Jewish and Arab communities whose cultural contributions are evident in cuisine, music, and festivals.
• The gaucho, Argentina’s iconic cowboy, represents the country’s rural heritage and is celebrated in folklore, music, and literature.
• Traditional gaucho attire, including the bombacha pants and wide-brimmed hat, is still worn during festivals and cultural events.

Money in Argentina

Money is a controversial topic in Argentina. The country’s economy is not doing great, and it has been experiencing great inflation over the years. This resulted in an alternative exchange rate.

The current blue dollar exchange rate can be checked here . Note that it isn’t as bad as it used to be, and paying with a card for smaller transactions will not break the bank. 

I wrote everything there is to know about it in this guide about the blue dollar exchange rate in Argentina , including tips for travellers in Argentina. 

The bottom line is that the official exchange rate given by the banks and most credit or debit cards is much worse (you lose money) than what you get for exchanging US bills in the exchange houses. So when travelling to Argentina, go with US dollar cash.

If you are travelling there for longer, then use Western Union to send money to yourself, as they provide a good exchange rate. 

Public transport in Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires is a huge city, and the best way to explore it is by using public transport. The metro will take you anywhere you need to go in the central area. If you want to explore a bit outside the centre, you will need to take the bus to some neighbourhoods, such as Boca. 

To use public transport in Buenos Aires, you need a Sube public transport card, which you can top up with cash at any metro station.

Then, you just tap the card at the metro or bus, and the corresponding fee will be deducted from the card. Note that for the bus, you need to tell the driver where you are going (name of the stop you want to get off), so they know what to change, and then tap the machine with your card. Otherwise, the bus driver will charge the maximum amount for the bus ride. 

I visited Argentina in April 2024, so the prices were 125 ARS ($0.14) for a metro ride and a maximum of 150 ARS ($0.17) for a bus ride. A SUBE metro card was about 850 ARS ($0.97) to buy (at any metro station). 

However, given the high inflation that Argentina is experiencing, these prices might change by the time you visit Argentina. 

You can also use Uber in Argentina to pay with your card through the app. I used it a few times early in the morning when I needed to get to the airport. It was ok, but once, I had to remember the driver to start the trip as he started driving without starting the trip. Always pay attention to details like that because you never know. 

To get from the airport to the centre, you can use Uber or public transport. I landed at Ezeiza International Airport (EZE) twice and took Tienda Leon bus. 

How to travel within Argentina

As I mentioned so many times already in this Argentina travel guide, the country is huge. It starts with a tropical land, at the edge of the Amazon in the North and ends with the Southernmost city in the world, Ushuaia, the port for all cruises that go to Antarctica. 

Since the distances are so great, the best way to travel within Argentina, is by plane. All regions of Argentina have airports and regular flights scheduled throughout the year. There are flights between the different regions, but most of them are connected through Buenos Aires. 

When I travelled to Ushuaia, it was already late autumn, and the plane was full of locals, who were travelling between their hometown and Buenos Aires. And that’s the case with most of the places in Argentina. 

Driving in Argentina

While I didn’t rent a car in Argentina, I would have loved to. 

Unlike other countries in Latin America, Argentina has great roads and offers normal driving conditions. From my personal observations, drivers are careful, respect traffic laws and signs, use signals when changing directions, and respect pedestrians. 

It felt very safe to walk and drive in Argentina. Given that Argentina is huge, renting a car is an advisable activity if you plan to discover a region of Argentina. For instance, many choose to rent a car in Ushuaia or in Iguazu.

That way, you will not have to wait for public buses, spend money on taxis and Uber, and be a lot more flexible in making your schedule. 

However, if you plan to stay longer in Argentina, one more adventurous plan would be to drive all the way from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia. 

Note that this is a very long drive, and you will probably need at least a month to do it (road trip). Some rental companies might not allow this since Ushuaia is not connected to the rest of the country, and you need to cross the border to Chile and then cross the border once more. 

Also, there are strict regulations in Patagonia about what you are allowed to bring with you (no fresh food, meat, seeds, plants). 

I would have normally rented a car in Ushuaia, but this was the end of the season, and it was starting to feel really cold, so I wasn’t sure if I would go out much to explore. But during summer, many tourists rent cars, as this is the only way to reach some of the beautiful trails offered by the Argentinian Patagonia. The other option would be to go by taxi or on a tour, which tends to be the more expensive option. 

Getting around Argentina without a car

If you decide that you won’t rent a car in Argentina, then that should be fine too. 

Getting around Buenos Aires shouldn’t be a problem, as you have public transport and Ubers to take you anywhere you need to be. 

In other places in Argentina, you will have two options – Uber and tour agencies. 

If you are more of an adventurous traveller who enjoys planning your own trips, then you can do that by simply calling Uber or local taxis to get to your places. 

Luckily, all those tourist places are really close to a city, and there you will have the option to take taxis. Prices are generally good, and nothing too crazy. Taxis are also very safe in Argentina. 

If you don’t know or want to go hiking or sightseeing on your own, then you can join a local tour guide. In all the tourist locations in Argentina, you will find local tour agencies organising daily trips to the most popular attractions nearby. You will find those in Ushuaia, El Calafate, Mendoza and Iguazu, for instance.    

Domestic flights from Buenos Aires

Aerolineas Argentinas are the largest carrier in Argentina, and you can book flights directly on their website. I used it in Spanish and had no issues booking my flights to Ushuaia and Iguazu. 

One important note about travelling with Aerolineas Argentinas is that they have a specific rule for domestic flights. 

On domestic flights with Aerolineas Argentinas, you are allowed to bring only a personal item and a carry-on of up to 8 kg.

They have several ticket classes, and each comes with benefits, but if you are travelling only with a carry-on like I was, then check the dimensions and weight of your carry-on because they will check at the luggage check-in (if you need to go there). 

Since I realised from the start that my luggage was too big and heavy, I bought the checked luggage online before getting to the airport. Remember that buying your luggage option at the airport is always the most expensive option, so try to anticipate it, and you will save money. 

I had a 40-litre backpack that was overflowing, but nothing was hanging on the outside. I had to check it in on three flights in Argentina , and all these times, my backpack was okay. My backpack survived, nothing broke, and nothing bad happened, so I do recommend Aerolineas Argentinas, as the service was very good. 

Top tourist attractions in Argentina

• It is one of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders in the world, located on the border of Argentina and Brazil.
• A stunning glacier in Los Glaciares National Park, Perito Moreno Glacier is known for its massive size and dramatic ice formations.
• The vibrant capital city is known for its European-style architecture, rich cultural heritage, and tango dance performances.
• A picturesque region in Patagonia that is renowned for its stunning lakes, snow-capped mountains, and outdoor recreational activities.
• Argentina’s premier wine-producing region is famous for its Malbec wines and scenic vineyards.
• A region that is known for its colonial architecture, Andean landscapes, and the scenic Train to the Clouds.
• Located at the southern tip of Argentina, offering breathtaking landscapes, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
• A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its diverse marine wildlife, including whales, seals, and penguins.
• The southernmost city in the world, serving as a gateway to Antarctica and offering opportunities for adventure sports and cruises.
• Argentina’s second-largest city is known for its colonial architecture, historic Jesuit churches, and vibrant cultural scene.
• A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring stunning rock formations, colourful mountains, and indigenous culture in the Andean foothills.
• Experience traditional gaucho culture, horseback riding, and ranch stays in the vast grasslands of Argentina.

Where to stay in Argentina (hotels and accommodation) 

I always use a combination of Airbnb and Booking, depending on the current prices and options. 

Argentina is a really popular destination in South America, so you had better book your hotel as soon as possible. 

Even the best apartments in Buenos Aires need to be booked in advance, regardless of the season. 

Here are some options of where I stayed in different parts of Argentina that I recommend:

• Buenos Aires: Stay in the Recoleta neighbourhood. I stayed at this Airbnb . 
• Ushuaia: I recommend staying in the city, so you can easily walk around to restaurants and shops. I used Booking in Ushuaia, and I stayed at this beautiful apartment with the best views. 
• Puerto Iguazu: This is, without a doubt, one of the most famous falls in the world, so book your hotel wisely and timely. I recommend this hotel because I stayed at a budget one, which was so much worse, and I don’t recommend going on a budget there. 
• El Calafate: The famous glacier of Argentina is a sight you shouldn’t miss. I recommend staying here. 

Foods to try in Argentina

• It is a quintessential Argentine dish featuring various cuts of grilled meat, often served with chimichurri sauce. I don’t eat meat, so I can’t really recommend a place, but trust me, you will find it everywhere.
• Savoury pastries filled with meat, cheese, vegetables, or a combination of ingredients, baked or fried. These are so popular in Argentina, people line for at lunch time to get them. 
• Breaded and fried meat cutlets, usually made with beef or chicken, served with mashed potatoes or salad.
• Grilled provolone cheese, often seasoned with herbs and spices, is served as an appetiser or side dish.
• A hearty stew made with corn, beans, meat (usually beef or pork), and vegetables, often enjoyed during winter months.
• Thinly sliced beef flank steak stuffed with vegetables, hard-boiled eggs, and herbs, rolled and cooked until tender.
• Grilled chorizo sausage served on a crusty bread roll, typically topped with chimichurri sauce.
• A traditional dish made with ground corn, onions, and spices, wrapped in corn husks and steamed.
• A sweet, caramel-like spread made from condensed milk, used in desserts, pastries, and as a topping for toast or pancakes. Probably you won’t eat it as it is, it’s usually sold in jars, much like Nutella.
• A double biscuit with cream inside, usually dulce de leche. It’s sold everywhere, from supermarkets, to local pastry shops, and can come in all sorts of combinations. It’s a nice snack to have by the side when enjoying your coffee. 
• Flaky, crescent-shaped croissants are often enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack, plain or filled with dulce de leche.

Drinks to try in Argentina

• A traditional South American herbal tea made from dried yerba mate leaves. This is much more popular than coffee in Argentina, you will see people drinking it everywhere, even in the metro. It is drunk with a special straw, called “bombilla”. Local often carry a thermos with them with hot water, to replenish their cup. 
• Argentina’s most famous red wine variety is known for its deep colour and rich flavours, particularly from the Mendoza region. The best way to enjoy it is by planning a trip to the Mendoza region and going on a Mendoza wine tour. 
• A popular Argentine cocktail made with Fernet, a bitter herbal liqueur, mixed with cola and served over ice.
• A fragrant white wine variety native to Argentina, featuring floral aromas and fruity flavours, often paired with seafood or spicy dishes.
• Argentina’s leading beer brand, offering a range of lagers and ales, best enjoyed ice-cold on a hot day.
• A simple and comforting drink made by dunking a bar of chocolate into hot milk until it melts, creating a rich and creamy beverage.
• A classic Argentine coffee drink consisting of equal parts espresso and steamed milk, often enjoyed for breakfast or as an afternoon pick-me-up.
• Particularly popular during the holiday season, Argentine cider is a refreshing and slightly fizzy beverage enjoyed chilled.
• While more commonly associated with Peru, this South American cocktail made with pisco (grape brandy), lime juice, simple syrup, and egg white is also enjoyed in Argentina.

I hope you enjoy Argentina

The Argentinian land is one of the most desired tourist destinations in all of South America. It’s obvious why that is the case — the beautiful landscape, rich culture brought by immigrants from all over the world, and overall safety are not an issue.

I have heard stories from other European backpackers who said they weren’t as safe, but I wouldn’t deem Argentina unsafe. And there is so much of it; it would be really unfair to categorize Argentina in one way or another when there are literally hundreds of touristy places, each with a different vibe and a different scene.

So if your dream is to travel to Argentina, by all means, do it. Go to those places you’ve always dreamt of going to, enjoy yourself, and become a better person and a well-travelled individual. South America awaits you!

Iulia Vasile

Iulia is a travel expert, blogger, engineer, freelance copywriter, and a curiosity-driven personality. She sees travel as the ultimate tool for self-improvement and personal growth, and that's the main topic of her blog, Juliasomething.com.

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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

This advice can help you with planning a trip to Argentina !

10 Ways Argentina Surprised Me

Making Connections Through Mate Drinking In Argentina

Is South America Safe For Solo Female Travelers?

21 Best Places For Solo Travel In South America

Buenos Aires Travel Guide

Use the following posts as a Buenos Aires visitor’s guide !

How To Explore Beautiful Buenos Aires Beyond The Guidebook

24 Hours In Buenos Aires, Argentina

Ordering Coffee Like A Local At Buenos Aires’ Oldest Cafe

Review Of Art Factory Hostel In Buenos Aires, Argentina

Mendoza Travel Guide

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

Review of Hostel Mora In Mendoza, Argentina

An Epic Mendoza Day Trip Exploring The Andes Mountains

Visiting Potrerillos: An Adventurous Day Trip From Mendoza, Argentina

Patagonia Travel Guide

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

24 Hours In Bariloche, Argentina

Free Adventures In Patagonia: Trekking Martial Glacier In Ushuaia

Valle de Lobos: A Budget-Friendly Hiking Alternative To Tierra del Fuego In Ushuaia, Argentina

Review Of Cruz del Sur Independent Hostel In Ushuaia, Argentina

Review Of Hospedaje Lautaro Hostel In El Calafate, Argentina

Review Of Periko’s Youth Hostel In Bariloche, Argentina

Other Argentina Travel Guide Destinations

These Argentina tourism guide posts will help you plan an incredible trip!

Review Of Hostel Prisamata In Salta, Argentina

Traveling In South America

These guides share tips for exploring South America in general!

14 Essential Tips For Backpacking South America

My Most Ridiculous Bus Encounters Backpacking South America

20 Best Beach Destinations For Solo Female Travelers

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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Home » South America » Argentina » Backpacking Guide

EPIC Backpacking Argentina Travel Guide (Updated 2024)

Dreaming about exploring the wilds of Argentina? Me too amigo, me too.

This is a land of contrasts: a place where scorching deserts and lush jungles melt into each other. Fine wine costs a couple of dollars – and fine people sip mate in the streets . It’s home to sacred landscapes of Patagonia, football, meat, empanadas, hikes of every difficulty level, and ridiculous levels of enthusiastic energy. 

There are reasons why backpacking Argentina is so popular amongst us travellers. Adventures are extreme, the diversity of landscapes is incomprehensible, and the people are sexy – I mean – vivacious . 

But, Argentina is ENORMOUS … So if you’re visiting Argentina for a flustered quickie or planning a complete road trip, you gotta be prepared. 

I’ve been lucky enough to backpack around South America with my Argentinian partner too… So I’ve roped in Seba G Vivas: Argentina native and lifelong enthusiast. Together, we’re going to guide you through this magnificent country to show you the must-visits AND off-the-beaten-path highlights we’ve discovered in 25+ years of trips around Argentina. 

This epic backpacking Argentina travel guide has the best budget tips and travel tricks, lovingly gathered over our lifetimes, in the most passionate nation in the world . From our favourite cheap accommodation, the low down on hikes, to the boring stuff like travel insurance and safety, you’re safe with us.

No country has left an impression on me quite like exploring Argentina. So I, LauraMcBlonde, and my beautiful Argentino partner are taking you on a wild road trip from the desert to trekking Patagonia. 

Vamos! We’re going backpacking Argentina…

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

Why Go Backpacking in Argentina?

If you tried to describe Argentina with a couple of words, it wouldn’t be possible. The 8th largest country in the world hosts some of the most dramatic and distinct landscapes. So whatever type of backpacker you are, Argentina has something for you.

Snowy Patagonian mountains run alongside miniature mountain villages. Humid rainforests and dry deserts crash into each other. Then you’ll find highly developed cities.

The Southern South American country borders friendly neighbours like Brazil, Chile, and Bolivia. So it’s a no-brainer to make Argentina part of your backpacking South America adventure.

And amazingly, Argentina is cheap as shit! So it really is a broke backpacker’s dream destination. You just have to know the tricks.

More than that, Argentina has a special place in my heart. The locals don’t do anything by halves and that passion transcends to everything in their beloved country. They LOVE and they HATE Argentina, in equal measure, passionately .

The energy that the people have is electric. Whether it’s a football game, a music concert or an Argentinian festival , people have a particular way of sharing emotions; those very high and very low vibrations.

Best Travel Itineraries for Backpacking Argentina

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There are top things to do in Argentina all over the country. Even if you just keep your Argentina itinerary within places to stay in Buenos Aires , you’re in for an adventure. But once you get out of the capital, you see the country unfold.

Backpacking Argentina itineraries involve long travel distances ; bear this in mind when planning your trip. Flights are expensive and bus journeys are long .

If you’re only planning on visiting Argentina for 1 or 2 weeks – or even with a one-way ticket – it’s impossible to get around the whole country. Pinning a few must-see destinations may be useful.

14-Day Travel Itinerary for Argentina – The Northern Cities

With 2 weeks in Argentina, you can cover the most culturally significant cities in Northern Argentina: Buenos Aires , Rosário , Córdoba , and Mendoza . This 14-day backpacking Argentina itinerary starts at the iconic Iguazú Falls and ends in Buenos Aires. But it can be done in reverse. 

If you’re flying into and out of Buenos Aires , or you’re short on time, you may want to connect to Puerto Iguazú on a round-trip flight to avoid the long-distance bus.

To see the incredible example of the power of nature, spend 1 or 2 nights at Iguazú Falls . You can also see it from the Brazilian side, but I’m biased, right?

Take a bus ride to Rosário , one of the most progressive South American countries. Delight your senses with outstanding street art, culture, and playtime – I mean nightlife .

You won’t be disappointed by Córdoba : a city with very modern values. Stay in the city of Cordoba for a few days, then – if you can – get out and explore the region of Córdoba.

The Sierras de Córdoba is a mystical place to explore. Camping here is one of the biggest pleasures.

From here, the journey to the wine capital of Argentina, Mendoza , is easy. Go wine-hopping from vineyard to vineyard. The nearby Andes mountains also offer skiing, hiking, and climbing.

Then finally, Buenos Aires awaits you. This chaotic city has no shortage of attractions. Be sure to visit the charming neighbourhoods of Recoleta , San Telmo , and Palermo .

1-Month Travel Itinerary for Argentina – The Culture Route

Now we’re really digging deep into what Argentina has to offer. This 4-week backpacking Argentina itinerary expands further on the previous 2-week itinerary but now you could have time for Salta and Jujuy . End your trip on the beach at Mar del Plata .

On your way North from Córdoba or Mendoza , you can make a stop in San Miguel de Tucumán to break up a long bus journey. Dive into some of the nation’s history at the Casa Histórica and the Casa de Gobierno .

You’ll notice the landscape become arider and desert-like until the scenery crescendos into surreal formations and colours. From here on out, simply looking out the window at the alien-like views is entertainment enough.

As well as being one hell of a wine region, Salta has an extraordinary landscape of rock formations. Set a few days aside for getting lost within it.

Then, you’re the most North West as Argentina goes in the state of Jujuy . Tred through raw Argentina. Enjoy the traditional life with a backdrop of natural wonders: Quebrada de Humahuaca and the Pucará de Tilcara .

If you’re heading out of Buenos Aires, Mar del Plata is the best place to wind down or party on down. Whatever kind of beach vibe you crave, you’ll find it here.

3-Month Travel Itinerary for Argentina – The Whole Cow

Now, this is my kinda trip! With a 3-month backpacking Argentina itinerary, you can delve deep into the heart of this special nation.

You’ll be able to experience nearly every shade of its coloured and marvellous geography: mountains, deserts, coastlines, vineyards… well, as much as 3 months allows. As well as having the previous destinations on your hit list, now you have plenty of time to explore Patagonia too!

Don’t miss some of the best places to see in Argentina: El Bolsón , Bariloche , El Chaltén , and El Calafate . You may well find that you just don’t want to leave!

It wouldn’t be a justified backpacking Argentina travel guide if I didn’t recommend that you take at least one trek. You have plenty of the best hikes in the world to choose from: the mighty Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre , climbing atop the Perito Moreno Glacier , or at the ends of the Earth in Tierra del Fuego in Ushuaia.

On this trip through Argentina, You’ll also have plenty of time to simply soak in the energy that the country gives off. Take the days (and nights) to enjoy fine food, wine, and fine company. By travelling slowly , that’s when you get the full Argentina experience. 

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Of course, this massive country is jam-packed with incredible sights. You can make a list as long as your arm of the best places to visit in Argentina. But let’s go over some highlights.

Backpacking Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires is a city unique in itself. You could spend weeks, months, YEARS here and still feel like a newbie.

It’s a marvel. The city’s full of energy, wonderfully designed, and there is rarely a dull moment. To start backpacking Argentina, Buenos Aires is an exciting place to springboard in.

The city is huge, and most people question safety in Buenos Aires from terrible rumours. But staying in the Microcentro (where most of the attractions are anyway) proves safe enough for thousands of tourists a year.

You’ll find Obelisco rising in the middle of the bustling Avenida 9 de Julio to remind you where you are. Several cultural landmarks, like the Casa Rosada and Palacio Barolo , are around this area.

Living the hostel life in Buenos Aires, you’ll meet great people. It’s the place for tip-offs about THE local snack shops too.

Recoleta is class but attracts mostly affluent travellers – the cemetery is weirdly amazing. Palermo SoHo is the hipster part of town and features some of the coolest street art I have ever seen.

La Boca is admittedly cool but overhyped and a bit shady after dark. I recommend staying in San Telmo instead, and just peaking in as a better option.

Backpacking Iguazú Falls

Iguazú Falls is probably the most engrossing waterfall on the planet (and I’ve seen a few stunning waterfalls). The sheer power of this waterfall makes it an intimidating and awe-inspiring sight. Around 275 cascades orchestrate this majestic power.

As you walk along the crest of the falls, witnessing tons of water spilling over the precipitous edge, you’re gonna get wet. (You dirty-minded bastard – not that kind.)

Iguazú Falls is split between Brazil and Argentina and both sides will give you a different taste. The Argentinian side traverses the top of the falls and gives a more up-close and personal experience. The Brazilian side is closer to the bottom of the falls but makes a fuller panoramic view.

The most magnificent sight is the Garganta del Diablo – The Devil’s Throat . Many people (*cough, cough* the Argentinians) claim it is the best part of the park.

There’s an argument over which side is better: Brazil or Argentina? But this is a backpacking Argentina guide… Of course, I’m going to say Argentina!

Accommodation wise: stay in the Argentinian city of Puerto Iguazú . The city pretty much exists solely as a means to visit the falls. Staying in one of the hostels in Iguazu Falls is where you’ll find the best vibes.

Backpacking Rosário

Rosário doesn’t have the sheer amount of landmarks that Buenos Aires does. What Rosário does have is heaps of culture. Here is one of the most liberally minded and socialist populations in all of South America.

The city is evolving and transforming. Artists, activists, rebels, and youngsters are all drawn to this place to pay homage to idols – like Che Guevara, Lionel Messi – or to become their own (in a sense).

The most important landmarks are the Monumento a la Bandera and the house of El Che Guevara . Both are nationalistic in nature and iconic stops in the city.

Rosário is also the city with the most green spaces in the whole of South America! Check out the Parque Independencia , which is also one of the largest city parks in the whole country. If you’re visiting during warmer seasons, there’s even a stretch of sandy beach along the Paraná River called Balneario La Florida to take your icy beer.

Tourist attractions aside, Rosário really shines when it comes to the people. People are very open-minded and receptive to foreigners. If you happen to make friends with a Rosárino (a person from Rosário), then you’ll be treated very well – first to an Asado , then to a long night of socials in the Pichincha neighbourhood.

If you’re lucky, you may even get a chance to find a lover for the night. It’s common knowledge that Rosárinos are gorgeous.

Backpacking Mar del Plata

Mar del Plata is every Porteño’s (a person from Buenos Aires) favourite summer getaway. This large city boasts some of the best beaches in Argentina and gets rammed in the peak seasons around November to March.

Most people, obviously, journey to Mar del Plata to relax on the beach. The most popular ones are Playa Varese , Playa de los Ingleses , and Playa Grande .

In the summer, these sandy stretches become absolutely bonkers as locals play and pass around drinks and joints. At night, many people go to the bars around Alem Street and stay up all night long only to repeat the process the following day.

If you want a slightly calmer experience then head north or south to the small coastal towns of Pinamar and Miramar , respectively. Both are way more chilled and attract more families. You’ll find much cheaper accommodation in these areas too.

If you visit Mar del Plata during the rainy off-season, then there is still plenty to do. There are several ecological museums and zoological facilities around the city to visit. Most of these offer predominantly maritime exhibits.

Backpacking Córdoba

Córdoba is the second-largest city in Argentina and is most known for its colonial architecture, scholastic history, and surrounding mountainous landscape. The city is an eclectic mix of the old and the modern. Young travellers and students rain on this city.

Jesuits “founded” the modern city of Córdoba and they established several places of learning. Because of this, Córdoba’s nickname is  La Docta or “the learned one.” Scattered throughout are some of Argentina’s prominent historical sites: the Manzana de los Juristas , the Cathedral of Córdoba , and the Capuchin Church .

Go museum crazy in Córdoba. The Evita Fine Arts Museum , which was formerly a palace, is loved by many. Ultra-modern Caraffa Fine Arts Museum is also worth visiting. Backpacker hostels in Cordoba and cool budget accommodation are in abundance.

Outside of the city of Córdoba is my favourite place in Argentina – Las Sierras de Córdoba (sorry Paraná, I still love you). I’m just a sucker for camping and road trips.

Charming villages around the mountains, like La Falda , La Cumbrecita , and Villa General Belgrano , are beautiful and have very European sensibilities. The Quebrada del Condorito and Traslasierra Valley areas make incredible hikes.

Argentinians from all over the country flock here with their Asado equipment to retreat from everyday life. Large inland lakes and rivers capture the hearts of many. Picturesque Mar Chiquita serves as a nice retreat for Córdobians.

Nearby Salinas Grande couldn’t be more different. This is a huge salt flat at the base of the mountains.

Backpacking Salta

Salta is a thriving commune and backpacker hangout smack bang in the middle of the desert. This desert also doubles as one of Argentina’s premier wine regions (woohoo!).

I’m not going to beat around the bush here; it’s a journey to get here. You can make a stop in San Miguel de Tucumán – for some history – and Cafayate . Cafayate is the initial gateway to one of the most gorgeous landscapes in Northern Argentina: the Valles Calchaquí .

If you have your own car, you’re laughing. This region – running north all the way to Jujuy – makes the best road trip with its blood-red stone formations canyons that snake throughout it. Cuesta del Obispo is a road I won’t forget in a hurry.

In the Valles Calchaquí, adventure opportunities are plentiful. Who knew backpacking Argentina in Salta can involve paragliding, mountain biking, climbing, rafting, rappelling? Pump some adrenaline, then warm your soul with some winey goodness.

There are numerous wineries around Salta offering different styles and vintages. The harsh climate in this region has a noticeable effect on the grapes, producing bold and hearty tastes.

Inside the city – if religious sights interest you – there are plenty. The gorgeous Iglesia San Francisco and Catedral de Salta , as well as museums of colonialism and archaeology, are prominent features. You can summit several of the surrounding hills via train or cable car as well; each one offers astounding panoramas of the city.

Salta definitely still has a soul and heartbeat that could rival any larger city too. Streets are busier with people more so than cars. Bars are abundant and full of life.

Backpacking Jujuy

North of Salta is San Salvador de Jujuy in the province of Jujuy. Though the regions of Salta and Jujuy appear very similar, they are, in fact, quite different.

Tourism in the region of Jujuy focuses less on winemaking and more on the surrounding landscape. The Quebrada de Humahuaca is one of the most beautiful places in Argentina and hiking through its Seven-Coloured Hills is a once in a lifetime opportunity.

This region isn’t totally desolate either: just over the mountains, you’ll actually find a cloud rainforest. Verdant Calilegua National Park will grant visitors the opportunity to spot jungle wildlife – especially those of the feline variety like jaguar, puma, and ocelot.

The main towns of the Jujuy province are San Salvador de Jujuy, Purmamarca , and Tilcara . All of them are quite similar and any one of these would make a fine base for exploring the region.

Of the three, Tilcara is the northernmost town and offers great archaeological attractions. The most popular site is the Pucara , which is a mighty pre-Inca fortification built upon a hill.

In addition, there are several other museums around Tilcara that do a great job of representing the local indigenous culture. The town itself has its own unique charm with mud and stone buildings, which give the entire town a very mystical desert feel.

Backpacking Mendoza

The mighty Andes! Here, you’ll find some of the superlatives of South America including the highest mountain on the continent. Home to the Malbec wine grape – “the best in the world”. (According to the Argentinos, obviously).

The city of Mendoza isn’t much to speak of. It’s a bit lacklustre. There are a couple of interesting attractions like the Cerro de la Gloria , Plaza España , and the Parque San Martín .

Most of the action is found outside of the city. This is why you want to make sure to know where to stay in Mendoza .

Being so close to the Andes, Mendoza has a myriad of alpine activities to participate in. In the winter, you can take to the mountains with your skis in resorts like Las Leñas .

In the summer, hardy adventurers can climb the gargantuan Aconcagua . This mountain is not for beginners though; attempting it shouldn’t be taken lightly. There are a couple of nice hostels in Mendoza as well.

The Wine Region is Mendoza’s real claim to fame. Don’t forget the name, Malbec : adored by many worldwide, this beauty of a grape is cultivated and celebrated here. A tour around the many wineries is essential in Mendoza.

Mendoza does act as a bit of a crossroads. Many who have been backpacking around Chile enter Argentina via Mendoza. The city is the meeting point for many important backpacking routes in Argentina as well.

If you’re travelling from the east, be sure and drop by the Argentinian national parks of Talampaya and/or Sierra de las Quijadas . Both offer spectacular desert scenery that rivals the beauty found in the Valles Calchaquí region.

Backpacking Río Negro

Okay, this is a biggie! So let’s break it down into two of the hottest destinations to visit while travelling in Argentina.

On the doorstep of Patagonia and the Andes are the beloved destinations of Bariloche and El Bolsón . I’m not messing, these are surreal fairytale places. There’s no wonder why people flock here.

Bariloche is Argentina’s idea of an Alpine retreat. This magical village nestles within the Nahuel Huapi National Park and has mountain splendour aplenty. With so much on offer, choosing the right place to stay in Bariloche can totally change your experience.

And within this magic-looking land, there is an abundance of outdoorsy adventures. There’s no shortage of world-class mountain activities to slap on your Argentina Itinerary: 

• Paragliding
• Snowshoeing
• And more…

Here is South America’s largest ski resort – Cerro Catedral . The younger folk arrive by the busload and spend the nights partying hard too. Staying in a good hostel in Bariloche is where you’ll find the best vibes – and the best routes to the bars. 

In the summer, after the snow melts, trekking is super popular. Take advantage of the mountain refuges for the most mind-boggling views. Climbing to Refugio Frey was my favourite!

Nahuel Huapi National Park is insane year-round. Don’t miss the opportunity to venture to the lakes and islands and absorb the flora and fauna.

6 hours south of Bariloche is El Bolsón. Tucked away in the secluded Piltriquitron Mountains, people come to escape the stresses of modern living. 

El Bolsón boasts some of the highest quality food in Argentina. You could spend your entire trip exploring the organic farmer’s markets and it wouldn’t be a minute wasted. Go ahead and double your body weight in ice cream. 

The idyllic conditions mean breweries are overflowing in El Bolsón and brewmasters are getting damn creative. Honestly, I had the most delicious beer here, it made Germany look weak. (Sorry scary Germans, please don’t fight me.)

And, of course, take a day or more to hike around Cerro Piltriquitrón, El Cajón Azul , or Rio Azul .

Backpacking Patagonia

Finally, backpacking Patagonia! Let me tell you about some of my favourite stops: Perito Moreno, El Chaltén, and El Calafate . 

Perito Moreno (not to be confused with the Perito Moreno Glacier which is 400 miles south) is not the most adrenaline-pumping place. It’s the location that really sells it. 

Positioned halfway between El Bolsón and El Chaltén, it’s perfect to break up a bloody long bus journey. It’s also ideal to cross the border with Chile.

Check out the Cueva de las Manos : a UNESCO site of prehistoric painted hands and depictions of local wildlife, upwards of 13,000 years old! Personally, I thought it was super cool.

El Chaltén is the heart of Patagonia! Its close proximity to Los Glaciares National Park makes it an unmissable stop. 

The region’s most notable peaks – Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre – tower in the distance and attract hikers and climbers year-round seeking to brave the malicious conditions. You have a plethora of world-class trails in El Chaltén to hike.

Traversing the epic Patagonian Ice Field is something you won’t forget for the rest of your life. Though this is NOT for novices; those who embark on this trek must be ultra-prepared. There’s no doubt you will feel on top of the world if you make it, though.

A few hours drive from El Chaltén is El Calafate : the jumping-off point to see the mighty Perito Moreno Glacier . It’s actually 50 miles away from El Calafate but – in Argentina terms – this is “close”. 

If you’re kitted out you can walk across the glacier. It’s easily one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever seen. The Perito Moreno Glacier strikes an indescribable cobalt blue that gives you the chills – inside and out. End your expedition with the most satisfying beer you’ve ever drank.

If you’re a museum nerd (like me) the Glaciarium is the place to learn about the big-ass ice block. Inside the ice bar, you can grab a fernet and coke (a love or hate it kinda alcoholic drink).

A little more off the beaten track are the periphery Glaciares, Upsala and Speazzini .

Getting Off the Beaten Path Travel in Argentina

Even within the most heavily touristed regions, like Buenos Aires or Patagonia, there are areas that visitors rarely see. So  travelling off the beaten path while backpacking Argentina is easy . There are endless places to stop and watch the world go by.

There are plenty of places to see incredible wildlife, flora, and fauna in Argentina. Though this is the part where I’m going to tell you to be very mindful if you’re taking part in animal tourism .

Puerto Madryn will satisfy your beach cravings. It’s also a place to spot whales, dolphins, sea lions, and penguins.

In the northeast, the swampy region of Iberá Wetlands is Argentina’s most ecologically diverse location. It’s overflowing with phenomenal natural sights. 

Peninsula Valdes is a place of extreme marine diversity. Scientists compare it to Ecuador’s Galapagos Islands. Capybara, giant anteaters, howler monkeys, anacondas, marsh deer, caimans, and more, all call this place home.

Not many people make it to Ushuaia – Tierra del Fuego. Mostly because it’s damn far and expensive to get to. But if you make it to the Land of Fire , get ready for some of the best hikes in the world . Explore Tierra del Fuego National Park and scale the Martial Glacier .

Ushuaia is the best launching point to take a trip to Antarctica too. Though be warned: they are ridiculously expensive.

I had some of the best nights of my life just bouncing around the hometowns of the locals in places like Paraná and Santa Fe ; share mate , indulge in empanadas, and try every kind of beer. 

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

Of course, you’re going to find great things to do in Buenos Aires . But backpacking Argentina is much more than the capital city.

So get out there and create your unique Argentina itinerary!

1. Go to an Asado

The most cultural Argentino experience is the Asado . The gathering is centred around slabs of meat, cooked to perfection, on a type of grill called a parrilla .

But Asado is not just about the food: it’s more about the company. It’s a very social experience and definitive of who Argentinians are.

Plus, dessert usually involves dulce de leche. That alone is worth selling your soul for.

2. Join the insanity of a football match

I’m from the UK – and I thought we were football crazy – until I went to Argentina. If you love football, this is basically a pilgrimage. If you don’t like football, you’re still in for a hell of an experience.

Players are idolized, deified even – as is the case with Diego Maradona and Lionel Messi – by the masses. Get yourself to a match and prepare for the most energy you’ve ever seen in your life.

3. Bike the wineries in Mendoza

Mendoza is one of the premier wine productions in the world! What a pleasure it is to say that some of the tastiest (and best priced!) wine is right here!

Take a wine-tasting tour to learn the real value of the honoured Malbec grape. Enjoy a glass or 2, or 3… in this fantastical wine region is a guaranteed good time.

4. Experience Iguazú Falls

Iguazú Falls is one of the mightiest scenes on this planet. Grab a rain jacket and walk amongst the towering falls as they plummet 250 feet into the void.

5. Get your walking shoes on!

Who can talk about travelling in Argentina without recommending hiking in Patagonia ? The treks attract walkers from all corners of the world for a reason!

There is really no shortage of trekking opportunities. Grab your boots and take to Cerro Torre, Fitz Roy, and incredible national parks to marvel at their awesomeness.

6. See the life of the Gauchos

Gauchos are Argentina’s version of the cowboy and their relationship with the nation is a long and dramatic one. Visit an estancia and hear about the history that they have of roaming and protecting the nation.

7. Take your mate everywhere

There’s nothing like finding a beautiful spot to just sit and watch the world go by. Then you can do that the Argentinian way too: with your mate (pronounced ma-tey). Mate is usually shared, so it’s a great way to get to know people and share your experience. But even alone, your mate is your friend.

There are stunning parks, mountains, and rivers aplenty in Argentina that become perfect places to take your mate and watch the world go by.

8. Take a road trip

No backpacking route in Argentina would be complete without a road trip. One of the best places to do this is through its finest desert landscapes; some of the biggest deserts in the world in fact!

The Quebrada de Humahuaca road and the Seven Coloured Hills that run through Valles Calchaquí region are both a wild ride. If you have your own transport, you can stop as you please and soak in the splendour.

9. Watch wildlife in Iberá Wetlands or Peninsula Valdes

These are some of the least visited tourist attractions in Argentina due in part to their remoteness. Neither should be missed though as they contain some of Argentina’s most spectacular wildlife!

10. An Argentinian

Hey, listen, most backpackers are gonna tell you love and sex while travelling is always something good to partake in. But when I talk about the passion that the Argentinians have, just imagine how that transcends to love …

And the sex? No way… Go find out for yourself.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

There are a ton of budget backpacker lodges in Argentina! You’ll have no problem finding a place to stay while backpacking Argentina. Of course, budget accommodation is abundant is ample all over the country.

Many hostels in Argentina can fill up quite quickly during their respective peak seasons. For example, lodging in Bariloche may be harder to find during the winter when the ski lodges are open.

Conversely, the hostels in Patagonia are busier in the summer when conditions are prime for trekking. In these cases, booking in advance could be beneficial.

For the best budget accommodation and the best vibes while staying in Argentina, look no further than Couchsurfing . The Argentinians definitely know how to host a guest.

When I’m not Couchsurfing, Airbnb is always my next choice. Having the option to cook your own food saves loads of money. Plus, I’m an introvert: I need my own space from time to time.

Estancias , which are like farm stays or ranches, are another popular form of accommodation in Argentina. This is a great way to experience life in rural Argentina. They can be a bit pricier than a hostel but you can’t get the kind of Argentina experience you can by staying with gauchos from a hostel.

Best Places to Stay in Argentina

Look, you’re going to find great places to stay in Argentina, no matter where you go. But these are some of the absolute best.

Argentina is a paradise for outdoors lovers. There are so many different types of landscape in this country: mountains, tundra, desert, forest, swamp, and more are all represented here. The possibilities for unique adventures are endless.

Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.

Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure – don’t be daft!

Trekking in Argentina

Hikers have probably had a big heart over Argentina ever since they thought about planning a trek abroad . From multi-day treks to little day hikes, the explorer within us will not be disappointed.

If you’re going to one of Argentina’s many wildernesses or outdoor parks, then I suggest buying all of the necessary camping gear. You’ll save some money that way and avoid paying for rentals via tour operators.

Consider buying a tent and a sleeping mat, or ditch both by investing in a hammock. A good backpacking stove is also a good idea for saving money and creating the best views for your meals.

The Best Treks in Argentina

• Los Gigantes (1-2 days, 14 miles) – Big hike into one of the most beautiful portions of the Sierras de Córdoba. Accomplishable via a single (long) day or a multi-day trek.
• Cerro Champaquí from Villa Alpina (12-14 hours, 12 miles) – Reach the summit of the highest peak in the Sierras de Córdoba. May involved overnight camps depending on fitness and itineraries.
• Quebrada de las Conchas (4-5 hours, 6 miles ) – Amazing trek into the Quebrada de las Conchas region of Cafayate. Some of the most stunning desert scenery in Argentina.
• Hut-to-Hut in Bariloche (4 days) – This Spectacular hike affords some of the best views of Nahuel Huapi National Park and its lakes. Tents are optional since you can stay exclusively in the refugios.
• Villa O’Higgins to El Chaltén (2-3 days, 21 miles ) – One of the greatest ways to experience Patagonia. Walk from Villa O’Higgins in Chile to El Chaltén in Argentina. You’ll see some superlative mountain, forest, and lake scenery along the way.
• Laguna de los Tres (8-10 hours, 16 miles) – Hike to one of the most recognized places in all of Patagonia, the Laguna de los Tres at the base of the infamous Monte Fitz Roy.
• Laguna Torre (7-9 hours, 15 miles) – Another must-do hike in El Chaltén, this time to Laguna Torre at the base of the diabolical-looking Cerro Torre.

Hitchhiking in Argentina

Travelling by hitchhiking in Argentina is a pretty common form of transport. There are few roads and lots of drivers heading in the same direction as you, so you can find a good spot easily enough. Just note that hitching in the north of Argentina and hitching in the south are two very different experiences.

The north hosts the larger cities and criminal activity is a little higher here. I hate to say it, but there have been a number of hitchhiking-related crimes – so drivers can be a little cautious. But when you find a ride, drivers are friendly and chatty.

Hitching in the south of Argentina is a matter of finding a ride in the first place. Roads in this part of the country are sparse and there are fewer drivers around.

Drivers are usually more concerned about dealing with treacherous roads and not about picking up hippies. Trying to find a ride in Patagonia in any season outside of summer can be a bleak and very uncomfortable experience.

I would also say to not expect a free ride. Discuss with the driver beforehand about what you’re doing and maybe, at the very least, offer to buy some lunch.

To put it frankly, Argentina is cheap as holy shit right now. In some areas, it even compares to the likes of Southeast Asia. What is a shit situation for local people is shouting us broke backpackers from the rooftops.

I can write a whole essay about the cost of backpacking Argentina. It’s constantly in financial crisis . On top of this, with the effects of the pandemic, the economy has taken its biggest hit.

The Argentinian Peso is constantly suffering inflation. This has led to the black market money exchange in Argentina.

As always, Couchsurfing and camping are the best ways to save on lodging. You can find a camping pitch for less than $5 USD per tent.

Finding cheap food is the least of your concerns. It’s everywhere. Tell me empanadas are $0.35 cents each and I’m rolling out the joint.

Eating out is definitely affordable. A meal for 2 at restaurant, bottle of wine, AND a tip for the staff for less $10 USD is easy. (Tipping isn’t necessary – and I’m not usually a tipper either – but I had to leave a tip for this price.)

Long-distance buses are generally pretty cheap. Overnight buses are super comfy saving your accommodation. 😉 Avoid internal flights if you are on a tight budget while backpacking Argentina.

Obviously in the more remote areas, like Patagonia, prices are higher than in the rest of the country. If you’re going there, you can expect a higher budget. It’s beautiful though so totally worth it.

With some consciousness, a broke backpacker’s budget of $10 USD is easily doable here. If you feel like letting go a bit, a $40 USD daily budget will see you to a very good time. 

So budget travel in Argentina is alive and well! Your money will go far here and you can help out a lot of people with your tourism.

A Daily Budget in Argentina

So let’s put it simply. Here’s a quick breakdown of the daily costs of travel in Argentina.

Money in Argentina

The currency in Argentina is the Argentine Peso. With constant inflation in Argentina, you’re going to be seeing a lot of it. Knowing the tricks with this is one of the hottest travel tips for South America right now.

Find out how much your money is worth today by using the up-to-date converter below.

This brings us to the black market in Argentina . You will notice a drastic difference between exchanging money “officially” and exchanging money on the black market – also known as the “Dólar Blue” .

The best way to exchange money on the black market is to bring money in USD and exchange money when you arrive. You’ll find people selling, and you can always ask for advice when you arrive. The locals are using USD to save money from inflation so they’re more than happy to help you out.

Of course, there is a risk in arriving with loads of dollars: Argentina, is not the place to be prancing around with a fat stack – unless you feel like losing it. So hide your cash well while travelling. 

You can retrieve money through Western Union at the black market rate. Beyond this, as far as I know, any other way to exchange money means you’re going to get ripped off.

There are ATMs in most places. But I wouldn’t recommend using them. If you’ve no other option – they’re there.

For all matters of finance and accounting on the road, The Broke Backpacker strongly recommends Wise – The Artist Formerly Known as Transferwise! Our favourite online platform for holding funds, transferring money, and even paying for goods, Wise is a 100% FREE platform with considerably lower fees than Paypal or traditional banks.

But the real question is… is it better than Western Union?

Yes, it most certainly is.

Travel Tips – Argentina on a Budget

• Camp : Argentina is one gorgeous country to camp, especially in the rural areas. It has been known to even pitch tents in people’s yards (and maybe get invited to an asado). Having a good backpacking tent is your first step to outdoorsy goodness.
• Cook your own food:  If you are on a tight budget, you can save money by cooking your own food. Having a  portable backpacking stove is a badass trick too.
• Book your transportation early:  Both plane and train tickets are much cheaper if you purchase them in advance. This rule doesn’t apply to buses, you can book them the same day or even hour.
• Couchsurf:  Argentinians are awesome but I wouldn’t stay anywhere without solid positive reviews. You know this shitty world means that travelling as a woman means we have more personal safety to consider. That being said, Couchsurfing makes real friendships and you see this country from the local perspective.

Why You Should Travel to Argentina with a Water Bottle

We’re globally aware of the plastic problem now, and it can seem overwhelming sometimes to change your habits. But little by little, we can make a difference.

One of the easiest ways to reduce single-use plastic in your life is by carrying a filtered water bottle. You don’t have to worry about the safety of the water, nor do you have to lean on buying plastic bottles every day. It’s one simple step to continue on the road of being a responsible traveller .

Plus, now you don’t have to PAY for water either! Because that really is absurd… Travel with a filtered water bottle and never waste a cent nor some poor fish’s life again.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

If you haven’t realised by now – Argentina is a massive country and spreads across multiple latitudes. Climate is extremely varied in Argentina; it has regions of excessive heat and humidity, bone dry deserts, highly unpredictable sub-arctic, and everything in between.

But generally, Argentinian weather is generally warm and wet in the summer (December – February) and cold and dry in the winter (June – August). Patagonia is the exception to this rule as it is warm(ish) and dry(ish) in the summer.

Summers are hot in the northeastern corner of Argentina . It can be almost unbearable at times actually. Buenos Aires, Mar del Plata, Rosario, Iguazú Falls, and Córdoba all fall under this category. Winter in these locations will be pleasingly mild and relatively dry.

Northwestern Argentina is predominantly a desert climate so summers here will be very hot while the winters can be quite cold. They are treated to nice summer thunderstorms from time to time. But as it’s the mountains, it can vary a lot.

Finally, the climate in Patagonia is just nutty and very location dependent. Some parts of the region have predictable weather and others are a complete wild card. Summers are generally drier but not exempt from thunderstorms. Winters are almost always cold and snowy.

Honestly, backpackers can visit Argentina at any time of the year; when you go is really dependent on what you want to do. Argentinian winters are great for skiing, and Buenos Aires will be nice and cool. Summer can be super hot and wet, but everyone is in very high spirits.

What to Pack for Argentina

A backpacking South America packing list can look a little different from packing lists for other continents. My mosquito net is my prized possession.

But on every adventure, there are 6 things I never go travelling without:

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

So you’ve heard the rumours. But let’s get it straight: it IS safe to travel Argentina .

Of course, crime is an issue in South America. But crime is an issue everywhere in the world. The vast majority of travellers in Argentina will tell you they had no problems at all by following common-sense travel safety practices .

There are certain areas that hold higher risk than others. Large urban cities have the highest crime rate – obviously. But most crime is petty in nature involving pickpockets, scams, and theft of unattended items; violent muggings are not frequent occurrences.

It’s worth asking locals about neighbourhoods you should avoid. Here is a map outlining the safer and more unsafe areas of Buenos Aires . There’s nothing of interest to a traveller outside of the “safe zones” anyway, so you won’t miss a thing.

It should be noted too that drunk driving is a problem in South America. Road accidents are common – please take extra care around the roads. I would go out on a whim and say this is the most dangerous part of travelling in Argentina.

Sex, Drugs, and Rock ‘n’ Roll in Argentina

You know I said the Argentinians are passionate people? Well, that goes for partying too! 

First off: the party doesn’t start until well after the sun goes down. Most bars and clubs won’t open until midnight and will only close after the sun has risen. Their partying gusto puts Europe to shame – if you can avoid the shitty cachenge music.

Obviously, this is South America, so cocaine is rife and cheap. This is not like cocaine at home – you’re not snorting as much soap powder here – so be very cautious with your limits. 

You’ll also find plenty of other pills and powders around if you keep your eyes and ears open. Just be careful when you are buying drugs on the road. Speak with someone you trust and if it feels weird, it probably is. 

One of my (many) favourite things about Argentina is LEGAL WEED! Yes, you heard me right.

The law regarding marijuana has been relaxing for years and most stoners have taken to growing their own plants. It even goes so far as some people being legally permitted to grow and distribute now. Fuck yeah, Argentina!

And now for the sex part: Argentinians are famous for that one. It seems like people are falling in love with Argentinians left, right, and centre! They’re just intensely beautiful and passionate people. 

Loving and being loved by them is an experience like no other. So if you’re ready to jump into the dating pool, Argentina could well be the place to do it.

Travelling to Argentina is fairly simple. If you’re travelling from outside of South America by air, chances are you’re landing in Buenos Aires. If you’re arriving from inside South America by air, chances are, it’s still Buenos Aires .

There are plenty of land crossings from neighbouring countries to Argentina. All of these are very easy to conduct. The bus companies are so used to doing these routes so it’s usually a very smooth process.

There is an entry port by boat from Uruguay too. Though this isn’t that common a route.

Entry Requirements for Argentina

Most Western nations can travel to Argentina visa-free for 90 days , depending on your country of origin. For many, the fees have also been waivered! One more reason to visit Argentina.

Some nationalities will need to apply for an Argentinian visa prior to arriving. Referring to the map below: those from the nations that are not blue or green will need to contact their local embassy before visiting Argentina.

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Travelling between destinations in Argentina is not a quick affair. So no matter which forms of transport you choose, get comfy and enjoy the ride.

Buses are your new best friend for getting around Argentina! Locally known as the colectivo , they’re comfortable, reliable, and really reasonably priced. Depending on how you like to travel, there are multiple ways to get between major Argentinian destinations.

The best option for travelling in Argentina is undoubtedly driving.  Having your own car opens up all kinds of possibilities to enjoy the road less travelled.

Car sharing is very common. One of the best travel apps for Argentina is Carpoolear , which works exactly like BlaBlaCar in Europe. It’s usually a bit cheaper and faster than the bus and, if you’re lucky, sometimes they’ll drop you exactly to where you want to go.

Long-distance buses usually have food and a toilet available – though you’d be wise to bring extra snacks and toilet paper with you.

There are 3 different classes: cama , semi-cama , and servicio común . Cama (meaning bed ) is sleeping class with seats that recline to a completely horizontal position. Semi-cama has semi-reclining seats and servicio común has little reclining, if any at all.

You can purchase bus tickets online but it’s usually cheaper to buy them at the bus terminal. Just use the websites to get an idea of which companies are running to where and the time schedules.

There are a limited amount of long-distance train routes available to those backpacking in Argentina. Most trains connect the larger eastern cities like Buenos Aires, Córdoba, and Mar del Plata.

Flying within Argentina can be expensive, but sometimes it’s a mandatory affair. If you want to visit far-flung places like Patagonia or the Valdes Peninsula and have limited time, you’re going to have to fly.

Buy plane tickets ahead of time to save money. Local airlines like Aerolíneas Argentinas are your go-tos.

Take note that Argentinian nationals pay less for flights than foreigners. Remember this when you think a plane is unusually cheap or falsely advertised.

Onwards Travel from Argentina

Argentina shares friendly borders with all its neighbours. Whether you’re heading to backpack Bolivia , Chile, Uruguay, Brazil, or Paraguay, it should never be a hassle.

If you’re heading overland to continue on the South America journey, you have plenty of border crossings to choose from:

You can catch a ferry in Buenos Aires to the lovely Uruguayan town of Colonia, which is just across the Rio de la Plata. There is a slow ferry (3 hours) and a quicker speedboat (1 hour) available.

Both Argentina and Chile share Patagonia, so you can continue your mountain exploration at one of the many crossings here! Many people hop back and forth across the border easily when backpacking in Patagonia and never experience a single problem.

There aren’t many international airports in Argentina. If you’re leaving South America, you’ll probably be heading to Ezeiza Airport in Buenos Aires .

Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Argentina

It’s no joke: travelling without insurance in Argentina is risky. Even with all the best intentions, you simply can’t prepare for everything.

In a worst-case scenario situation, the last thing you want to think about is how you’re going to pay for healthcare. So having good travel insurance before you set off on your adventure can literally be a life-saver.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Argentinians are very confident and engaging people, so much so that they can even seem intense or intimidating. Really, they’re just very social people. You’ll find everyone, of all genders, greets with a kiss on the cheek – and you won’t be exempt from their kisses. 

Argentinians can be boisterous – their personalities fill the room. They waste no time in expressing their mind or feelings. But it’s not to be coarse or arrogant; that’s just their way. Truthfully, they’re some of the most admirable people that I’ve met.

They have little regard for poking fun at you, their friends, or themselves. It’s nothing personal. Actually, it’s their way of showing they like you.

Mate (pronounced ma-tey) is a big part of the culture, especially in the Northern regions. The drink is usually shared between groups and they take it everywhere they go. Being from the UK, my tea culture blended perfectly well with this.

The country is a melting pot of ethnicities and races and its people have taken the best features from their European, Latin, and Indigenous ancestors. Seriously, Argentinians are absolutely beautiful people.

If you want to jump into the dating pool, then be ready to jump into the deep end . They are passionate beyond measure and they will speak from the heart. 

G auchos are South American “cowboys” and a national symbol of Argentinian heritage. Before they were forced to fight wars for independence, they were peaceful landkeepers.

Today, football is almost a religion in Argentina. You won’t go a day without seeing shrines to Lionel Messi and Diego Maradona and you literally can’t turn a TV on without a football match appearing. Now imagine all that boisterous energy in their thousands at a football match…

Useful Travel Phrases for Argentina

Argentinians speak a very distinct form of Spanish called Castellano Rioplatense . This dialect is different from conventional Spanish. For example, the pronoun tú is replaced with vós .

Argentinians also use slang or Lunfardo – in excess. Lunfardo has no official recognition and is used only in casual conversation. They speak fast and rhythmically, so even if you’re a Spanish speaker, expect a little adjustment phase.

It’s one of the best countries to learn a new language . If you can master communicating in Spanish in Argentina, you’re ready for the rest of South America.

Most Argentinians study English in high school thanks in part to its usefulness and also to the substantial British population. Many locals can communicate with you via English but they love it when you speak whatever Spanish you can muster.

At the very least, learning a few local expressions is useful. So to make your life easier, here are a few helpful Argentinian phrases with English translations.

• Hola – Hello
• Gracias/de nada – Thanks/you’re welcome
• Dónde está…?  – Where is…?
• Como te llamas?  – What’s your name?
• Buenos dias/buenas tardes/buenas noches  – Good morning/afternoon/night
• Cómo andás?  – How’s it going?
• Por favor – Please
• Que hora es? – What time is it?
• Cuanto cuesta? – How much does it cost?
• Claro! – Sure/of course!
• Dale!  – Let’s go!
• Buenas ondas – Good stuff
• Que es esto? – What is this?

What to Eat in Argentina

There is no way I can open ‘what to eat in Argentina’ without addressing Asado. It’s basically the common friend of the whole nation. The social gathering all centres around MEAT.

The Asado involves excessive quantities of cow, cooked slowly, tenderly , with love, on a parrilla (a grill). It’s more than a barbecue: it’s an art form.

You know it’s the weekend when that hearty smell hits your nose wherever you are in the country. The parrilla is literally part of the house and they get their use out of it.

It may or may not be served with salad. But the best Asados are served with chimichurri – a kind of homemade condiment. 

Yerba mate is a type of drink. But really, mate is the name of the cup; the yerba is the herb they put inside and drink with hot water, kind of like tea. It’s packed with caffeine and they share the same mate with everyone. Consider it an honour when they pass the mate your way.

If you’ve never tried dulce de leche before, get ready to gain a few kilos. This caramelised condensed milky goodness is everywhere in Argentina: ice cream, alfajores, on bananas, damn even straight off the spoon.

Empanadas are a staple of the diet. These stunning, stuffed pastry pockets come in all flavours. They cost next to nothing so bounce street to street sampling everyone’s soul food. 

As a flexitarian, I was kind of revolted by the quantity of meat I saw (and ate) when I arrived in Argentina. But honestly, when I actually looked I was surprised: veggie options are definitely on the rise. I found it easier to avoid meat here than in other countries. It’s the cheese that’s almost impossible to avoid.

For your pleasure, I’ve created a list of 10 of the must-try foods in Argentina.

Must-Try Dishes in Argentina

• Empanadas  – Pastries you’ll find everywhere
• Choripan  – chorizo sausage sandwich
• Milanesa  – fried breaded meat, like schnitzel
• Chipa – cheesy bread balls
• Dulce de leche – caramelised condensed milk
• Asado  – meaty Argentinian goodness
• Provoleta  – cheese perfect for grilling
• Chimichurri – homemade sauce
• Alfajores – dulce de leche, biscuit, chocolate…say no more
• Yerba Mate – hot infusion drink that’s shared

A Brief History of Argentina

Argentina is a young nation with a brief and turbulent history. Prior to the arrival of Europeans in the 16th century, the land was sparsely populated by native tribes.

The natives repel Spanish conquistadors somewhat successfully until the early 16th century. But this is the beginning of a long and sad story.

Sadly, as we know, European colonization was only a matter of time. The indigenous people were almost completely wiped out by the Spanish invaders.

By the 18th century, a stable settlement of the Spanish Empire is established in the area around the Rio de la Plata . Though brief in existence, this “viceroyalty” soon morphs into the first iterations of the Argentinian Republic.

In the early 19th century, Argentina was marked by internal conflicts between federalists and unitarians. Juan Manuel de Rosas was one of the leading figures of this time and was supremely polarizing.

In Buenos Aires, a series of successions and coups opposed him. An official democratic constitution declaring nationhood would finally be ratified in 1853.

Over the next few generations, Argentina is juggled between liberal and conservative parties. Having lost the territories of Uruguay, Paraguay, and Bolivia to the Wars of Independence, Argentina began to expand southward into the desert and Patagonia. By the turn of the 19th century, Argentina resembles its current form.

In the first half of the 20th century, the economy boomed and people emigrated in droves. But key events of this era – World Wars and the Wall Street Crash – leave Argentina in tatters. During WWII, Juan Peron would stage a coup and set Argentina down the path of internal strife yet again.

Since the 1950s, Argentina has suffered brutal dictators and great political upheavals. Although much more stable and safe, the economy and population still suffer the effects. Though, democratic rule has been restored.

Due to the consequences of war, slavery, and colonisation, Argentina is a multi-national country. Today, it is a mixing pot of cultures.

Argentina is a diamond in the rough for the digital nomad lifestyle : reasonable costs of living, cafe culture, widely available, good internet connection; all features that should make remote workers raise their eyebrows. But for some reason, Argentina has not become a digital nomad hub… yet .

Finding regular work in Argentina will be difficult. Unemployment is high and work visas are hard to come by. If you do somehow manage this, don’t expect spectacular wages.

Most people that do work in Argentina are English teachers. Most work 20-30 hours each week with an institute, though some people manage to do just fine with private lessons. To increase your odds of scoring a gig teaching English abroad , it’s always a good idea to get a TEFL certificate.

Broke Backpacker readers also get a 50% discount on TEFL courses with  MyTEFL .

Alternatively, Global Work and Travel have a TEFL course in Buenos Aires where you are almost guaranteed a job afterwards. If you haven’t found a job within two weeks, you’ll be assisted in finding one until you do!

Volunteer in Argentina

Volunteering abroad is an amazing way to experience a culture whilst giving something back. Most nationalities can volunteer on a tourist visa for up to 90 days, but long-term stays will have more specific requirements. 

Argentina offers a variety of opportunities for backpackers to volunteer. Projects in Argentina range from teaching to agriculture to pretty much everything!. In my personal opinion, the province of Cordoba, in the mountain area, is a very good option combining great weather and people who are cool and receptive to volunteering.

Volunteer programs run through reputable work exchange programs are usually very well-managed and trustworthy. However, whenever you are volunteering, do stay vigilant, especially when working with animals or children.

If you want to find volunteering opportunities in Argentina, I recommend platforms like Worldpackers and Workaway . Although they have their flaws, they are the best way to get your foot in the door of the volunteering community.

Psst… Broke Backpacker readers get a $10 discount when you sign up for Worldpackers. Use the discount code BROKEBACKPACKER .

Is it expensive to travel in Argentina?

No! Argentina is super cheap. If you get a little bit familiar with the black market, you’ll find your money goes far here. Patagonia is the most expensive region in the country. You might see your daily spending creeping up faster if you visit here.

How much time do you need to backpack Argentina?

I would recommend at least 2 weeks for backpacking Argentina. In this time, you could see a few highlights. But it’s a huge country that could be explored for a lifetime. So taking as long as possible to really dive into this country is my real recommendation!

What is the best way to travel around Argentina?

Buses! Or the Colectivo as it’s known in Argentina. Whether you’re travelling long-distance, intercity, overnight, or just to the end of town, buses are going to be your trusty buddy through it all.

Is football popular in Argentina?

Is the pope Catholic? Yes… he is. Football is basically a religion in Argentina. You couldn’t avoid it if you wanted to. I’ve never seen a nation more obsessed with the game.

Argentina is one of those countries that leaves a big, fat print on a traveller’s heart. It is extreme; from the shores of the Atlantic to the tallest tips of Patagonia, this immense country has so much to teach you. 

There is one summary I can make after backpacking Argentina. All the things that the Argentinians are most passionate about – Asado, football, mate, wine – they’re all things that are not done alone: they are shared experiences. I think that’s why the energy of this place is so special. 

The country is one big melting pot. And you quickly feel like part of the mix. 

Your money as a tourist can go far here. But remember, we have a duty, as people of the world, to travel responsibly. You can make a difference to people’s lives with the way you travel through Argentina. 

Argentina is a bloody big country. There’s no way you can get round to all of it. But I would love to hear about your experiences and your best travel tips in the comments. 

Travelling Argentina is screaming out to the adventurers. So book that ticket! Help out some good people and eat all the empanadas possible. 

Now, prepared with your backpacking Argentina travel guide in hand, you’re about to take on the meatiest, most enthusiastic, highly PASSIONATE experience of a lifetime! You’ll find me there. Let’s share a mate.

• We’ve also got where to stay in Buenos Aires covered with our epic guide. 
• You’ll also wanna stay in the best hostels in Buenos Aires too!
• Our ultimate South America packing list as all the info you’ll ever need.
• Sort out your backpacker travel insurance before your trip.
• Get your international SIM card organised to avoid hassle.
• Argentina is just the start of your awesome backpacking trip around South America .

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Just got perfect Guide to keep the important things in mind before travelling to Argentina Thanks.

Very comprehensive guide! However the peso is worth 0.026 dollars now (January 2019), which means travelling in Argentina is even cheaper than it was last year.

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The Best Places to Visit in Argentina: A 3-Week Itinerary for Your First Trip

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This three-week Argentina itinerary takes in all of the country’s highlights, from the incredible Iguazú Falls to the mountains of Patagonia.

Argentina is one of those countries that has it all. A world class city, jungle waterfalls, desert landscapes, wine country, mountain lakes, and snow-capped peaks… and that’s really just the beginning. 

This itinerary will introduce you to the best of Argentina, but keep in mind that it’s a large country. Hitting every stop on this list in three weeks will require a relatively quick tempo. It will be a fantastic first visit, but the only way to do it is with a bunch of overnight buses or internal flights. The distances are just too great to see all of Argentina’s highlights without them. 

Some of the bus journeys required take a full 24 hours or more. If you plan to travel by bus (or rent a car), you’ll need to do some combination of skipping some places on this list or shortening your time in each one.

If you have more time, I definitely encourage you to take it! In the north of Argentina, you can break up the long journeys with stops in some of Argentina’s smaller cities. In Patagonia, you might want to weave in and out of Chile as you make your way south. 

With that said, let’s jump right into the best places to visit in Argentina for first timers! 

Buenos Aires: Argentina’s city that never sleeps (3-4 days)

Of course, no visit to Argentina would be complete without a visit to its largest metropolis. Buenos Aires has beautiful architecture, fantastic nightlife, amazing street art, and so many diverse neighborhoods to explore. 

Three days is really the absolute minimum amount of time I would recommend for your first trip to Buenos Aires. The classic must-see sights will take you at least two days, and that’s at a run. 

These include the colorful Caminito in La Boca, the cobblestone streets of San Telmo (try to visit for the Sunday fair if you can), Plaza de Mayo (site of some of Argentina’s most important historical events), and the famous Recoleta Cemetery. You’ll probably also want to spend some time exploring the leafy, trendy barrio of Palermo. There are museums, markets, and parks – not to mention the fantastic food scene. 

For suggestions on what to do and see, I’ve written a suggested 4-day itinerary that includes the main highlights plus a few extras. Have a read and choose the sights that interest you most for your time in the city. 

Iguazú Falls: One of the world’s natural wonders (1-2 days)

These waterfalls, situated on the border between Brazil and Argentina, are one of the most spectacular sights you’ll ever see, especially if you time your visit for the rainy season. (Yes, it’s uncomfortably hot and sticky, but you came for the waterfalls, right? Well the rainy season is, unsurprisingly, when they’re at their most impressive! Rainy season at Iguazú also coincides with the best season for hiking in Patagonia, so that’s convenient for trip planning.)

The area surrounding the waterfalls is a national park, and it has extensive walking paths with dozens of excellent lookout points over the falls. Some give you a panoramic perspective, while others lead you close enough to the rushing water to get completely drenched by its spray. (Bring a dry bag!) 

There is also a train to take you a bit further afield to arguably the most impressive viewpoint of all – the Devil’s Throat. From the train station, a 1-kilometer long platform over the river ends with an up-close view of a legitimately awe-inspiring (and deafening) torrent of water, as well as the numerous rainbows that form in the surrounding spray. 

You can also take short boat tours on the Iguazú River for a different perspective on the base of the falls. The speedboats don’t take you right under the water, but you still get much closer than you can by walking. It’s a bumpy, wet, fun ride and worth the money. (Again, you came all the way here!)

One full day is enough to see the Argentinian side of the falls pretty thoroughly. I know it can feel like a waste not to stay longer, seeing as you came all the way here to the middle of the jungle. If you want to explore the Brazilian side of the falls as well, I recommend spending another day here.

How to get to Iguazú Falls

To visit Iguazú Falls on the Argentinian side, most people stay in the little town of Puerto Iguazú. The town is about 20 kilometers away from the falls, and buses run there several times per hour. 

By far, the easiest way to reach Puerto Iguazú is to fly from Buenos Aires. There are many nonstop flights each day from both Jorge Newbery Airport (locally referred to as simply “Aeroparque”) and Ezeiza. The trip takes just under 2 hours and usually costs less than $100 USD if you purchase tickets a month or so in advance.

Unfortunately, the alternative is… not great. If you want to travel by bus, it will take 17-20 hours and might cost just as much as the flight. 

Northwest Argentina: Colorful mountains, salt flats, and wine tasting (3 days)

The northwest is probably not what most people picture when they think of Argentina. The desert landscape is completely different from the rest of the country. Here you can visit dramatic salt flats, go wine tasting, and explore the UNESCO-recognized Quebrada de Humahuaca. 

North of Jujuy: Quebrada de Humahuaca and the Salinas Grandes

If you’re coming all the way up here, you definitely shouldn’t miss the Quebrada de Humahuaca, a valley characterized by colorful rock formations, adobe houses, and Quechuan villages. In the small town of Purmamarca, you can do an easy one-hour walk to take in the red, orange, and purple hues of the Cerro de los Siete Colores. Half an hour away, the small town of Tilcara – set in the same beautiful valley – has a reconstructed 12 th  century settlement overlooking the mountains. 

There are also salt flats – perhaps not quite as impressive as those a bit further north in Bolivia, but still an interesting place to see and take some fun photos. 

You can visit these as part of a day trip from either Salta or San Salvador de Jujuy (usually referred to as simply Jujuy). You’ll cut down on your driving time to the Quebrada de Humahuaca and the salt flats considerably if you base yourself in the latter, but I’d argue Salta has a bit more to see and do. It also has more frequent direct flights to other parts of the country. If you don’t mind moving around, you could stay in both, or you could spend a night in one of the small towns. (This would require renting a car, as most tours will just take you out for the day.) 

Jujuy is about two hours north of Salta. From there, it’s about an hour north to Purmamarca, and another half an hour to Tilcara. The Salinas Grandes are about an hour west of Purmamarca. Many companies combine the salt flats and Purmamarca into one (long) day, which I think is a good option if you also want to visit Cafayate and/or Cachi. (See next section.) 

South of Salta: Cafayate and Cachi

Three hours in the other direction from Salta is Cafayate, a popular wine tasting destination. Since Mendoza, Argentina’s most famous wine region, is the next stop on this itinerary, I think you can sleep soundly saving Cafayate for another trip. If you’re up for it, though, Cafayate is set in a beautiful valley, and many winery tours will include opportunities to explore the stunning rocky gorges and canyons as well. (You’ll do the outdoor activities first, don’t worry!) 

If you’re renting a car, you could do a loop including Cachi, a small colonial town that is also about 3 hours from Salta. (Unfortunately, it’s not really on the way to Cafayate, but the drive itself is beautiful and part of the appeal.) 

And if you prefer being driven, you can also book a separate day tour to Cachi and Los Cardones National Park. 

(One last option is to stop in Cafayate on your way to Mendoza if you plan to travel by bus. You’d have an additional 20 hours or so with a transfer in San Miguel de Tucumán.)

How to get to Argentina’s northwest

Aerolíneas Argentinas usually has four direct flights per week from Puerto Iguazú to Salta and two per week from Puerto Iguazú to Jujuy. The flight takes two hours. 

Traveling by bus will take at least 24 hours, and there is no direct bus at the time of writing. You’ll likely need to transfer in Posadas, Corrientes, or Resistencia. 

Mendoza: Wine tasting at the foot of the Andes (2-3 days)

Mendoza is best known for its wineries and the ever-popular bicycle tours of its vineyards. 

Many people don’t realize that Mendoza is also a major hub for adventure sports. Looking at a map, it makes perfect sense – it’s right next to the Andes. However, with so many popular hiking and outdoor activities available further south, Mendoza’s can often get overshadowed. 

It’s true that a lot of the hikes aren’t quite as accessible as those in Patagonia. (You’re not going to walk out the door and up a mountain.) Still, there are a lot of great day tours that will get you out into nature – an especially nice counterbalance if you’ve spent the previous day drinking malbec from noon until night!

The most popular activities are riding horses , whitewater rafting , ziplining, paragliding , and of course, trekking . 

How to get to Mendoza

Once again, you’re faced with the choice between a few hours in the air and 20 hours on a bus. 

There are direct flights from Salta to Mendoza four days per week and from Jujuy to Mendoza twice per week. The other days, you’ll need to connect in Córdoba or Buenos Aires. 

Or grab some headphones and/or a good book, and settle in for that long overnight trip! 

Bariloche: Argentina’s capital of outdoor adventure, extreme sports… and chocolate (2-3 days)

The next stop on your itinerary is Argentina’s unbelievably, jaw-droppingly gorgeous lake district. There are a number of beautiful small towns in the region where you can base yourself to explore its genuinely magnificent mountains, rivers, and lakes. 

The best and easiest place, though, especially if this is your first visit to Argentina, is San Carlos de Bariloche. Sitting on the southern shore of Nahuel Huapi Lake, it is a major tourist center and transportation hub. Accommodation is plentiful, there are frequent connections to other parts of the country, and public transit is available to take you to trailheads, beaches, and other places of interest. 

The great outdoors in Bariloche

If you’re a hiker, I recommend tackling one or two of the phenomenal day hikes in the Bariloche area. (Since we’re trying to fit a lot into three weeks in Argentina, we’ll save the multi-day treks for your next trip.) If you have to pick just one, I highly recommend the ridgeline hike to Refugio Frey . 

And even if you’re not much of hiker, you can still reach some really lovely viewpoints by cable car. These include Cerro Campanario, Cerro Otto, and Cerro Viejo. 

Adventure sports enthusiasts can go river rafting, mountain biking, rock climbing, kitesurfing, or paragliding. Fly fishing and horseback riding are great options for people looking to enjoy nature without the adrenaline rush.

Other popular activities in Bariloche

Even if you’re more about the indoor life (or if you’re just unlucky with the weather), there is a lot to love about Bariloche. In addition to the excellent wine you’ve probably come to expect in Argentina, Bariloche has a flourishing craft beer industry. It is something of a foodie destination, with a lot of renowned restaurants serving traditional Patagonian cuisine. 

If you’re a history buff, check out one of the excellent historical walking tours in Bariloche. One highly rated tour introduces visitors to the indigenous history of the region. Another focuses on the legacy of immigration from Germany to Argentina, and specifically the Lake District, after World War II.

Finally, don’t miss the dozens of excellent chocolate shops dotting the downtown streets. Bariloche’s long history of chocolate production (dating to the post-World War II era) has earned it a reputation as Argentina’s “capital of chocolate.” Save some room!

How to get to Bariloche

If you’re coming here by bus, be prepared – this is another long one. (Are you noticing a theme here?) Most buses leave Mendoza in the evening (around 6:30 p.m.) and arrive in Bariloche around lunchtime the following day. (The trip takes about 18-19 hours.) 

There are nonstop flights from Mendoza to Bariloche a few times per week. The flights take a little under 2 hours and, once again, are frequently cheaper than the bus. (I’ve often seen tickets for $60 USD.) 

El Chaltén: The highlight of any hiker’s Argentina itinerary (3 days)

Let’s start by establishing that El Chaltén is for hikers. It’s a hiker’s paradise. A mecca! The “Argentine capital of trekking” !

If you’re not a hiker? I’d probably skip it and add some extra days somewhere else in your itinerary. There isn’t all that much else to do!

Ok, so hikers: There are two very famous treks here, and for good reason. And then there is another one that doesn’t seem to be all that famous but is, in my opinion, even better. There are also shorter hikes to waterfalls and viewpoints as well as multi-day treks if you’re so inclined.

The number one trek on virtually everyone’s list is the hike to Laguna de los Tres. A close second is Laguna Torre. Of the two, Laguna de los Tres is longer, harder, and more impressive (that’s a close one though), so that is probably the one to prioritize. 

That said, if it were  me , and if it were a clear day, I would prioritize a completely different hike. It’s called the Loma del Pliegue Tumbado , and I am baffled by how completely and utterly underrated it is. In fact, I’m a little worried I’m breaking some kind of unspoken rule about this hike – are we keeping it a secret, or something? I hardly see it mentioned, and it’s alllll the way down at #7 on AllTrails, and… yeah, that just makes no sense to me.

Unfortunately, there is a decent chance the weather won’t cooperate with you for three full days. This is just the nature of Patagonia. If that’s the case, there are some easier hikes closer to town that only require a few hours. (Consider the Chorillo del Salto, for example.)

How to get to El Chaltén

Bariloche to El Chaltén takes a good 24 hours by bus – at best. You’ll travel along the famous Ruta 40, which runs the length of Argentina parallel to the Andes. (Unfortunately this stretch of it is not particularly interesting.) 

I’ve done it myself (and I should note that it took 33 hours), but this is another one of those times when I certainly understand the choice to fly. Aerolíneas Argentinas runs nonstop flights from Bariloche to El Calafate (see the next section) once a day in the summer months and a few times per week in the shoulder season. 

If that’s what you choose to do, you’ll just have to travel the roughly three hours from El Calafate to El Chaltén by bus. (And that route is, luckily, pretty spectacular!)

El Calafate: Gateway to the incredible Perito Moreno Glacier (2 days)

Next up on the itinerary is El Calafate. This little town is the gateway to one of the most magnificent sights on this big blue Earth: the Perito Moreno glacier. This is one of the most accessible glaciers in the world, and it is genuinely a sight to behold. Pictures often don’t do it justice, failing to effectively convey just how enormous it is, or how beautiful it is in the changing light.  

There are a number of ways to experience the Perito Moreno, from kayaking through its floating icebergs to ice trekking over the glacier itself . The most budget-friendly option is to just admire the glacier from the walkways and various viewing platforms on the other side of the lake. (I spent hours doing this when I visited the glacier, and it never once got old. I truly felt like I needed that time to fully appreciate it.) 

As you stand gaping in awe, there is a good chance a chunk of ice the size of 5-storey building will break off of and crash into the lake below. You’ll usually hear a loud crack before it does – a second or two of a heads up to see how fast you can get your camera out.  

El Calafate itself is a small town in a beautiful setting on the southern shore of Lago Argentino. You can go horseback riding, visit another glacier a bit further afield, or just take a stroll near Laguna Nimez to check out the resident flamingos.  

How to get to El Calafate and the Perito Moreno Glacier

As mentioned above, there are daily flights to El Calafate from Bariloche in the summer. If you’re just coming from El Chaltén, it’s a very manageable 3-hour trip by bus along a beautiful stretch of highway. 

Buses head to the Perito Moreno from El Calafate every morning. The trip takes about an hour and a half.

Ushuaia: Hiking and wildlife at the end of the world (2-3 days)

Our final stop on this three-week Argentina itinerary is Ushuaia, generally considered the southernmost city in the world. I’m including it on the list for anyone who has an extra couple of days (or who cut out some of the long, 24-hour bus trips with domestic flights). It’s a scenic place with some great treks and nice opportunities to spot wildlife, and it’s cool to stand at the so-called ends of the Earth.

Wandering around the harbor, you’ll see ships bound for Antarctica. With a bit of lucky timing, you might even spot one on its way there from one of the nearby hiking trails. 

That said, don’t lose sleep if you took some night buses to save the planet and have run out of time to visit Ushuaia. Bariloche, El Chaltén, and El Calafate are the real Patagonian must-sees on your first trip to Argentina. Ushuaia is a nice bonus. (If your heart is set on Antarctica someday, you’ll probably be back anyway.)

Ushuaia is a great place to hike, as you’ll find the trails much less crowded than the ones in El Chaltén or nearby Torres del Paine in Chile. The most recommended treks are Laguna Esmerelda, Cerro Guanaco in Parque Nacional Tierra del Fuego , the Vinciguerra Glacier, and the Martial Glacier. 

For a chance to spot some incredible wildlife (potentially including whales, dolphins, and sea lions!), check out boat tours through the Beagle Channel. If you, like me, can’t get enough of adorable Patagonian penguins, look for tours that include Isla Martillo . (Note that Piratour is the only company currently authorized to let visitors disembark and walk around the island.) 

How to get to Ushuaia

If you’re combining your Argentina itinerary with some time in Chile, it makes the most sense to visit Torres del Paine National Park in between El Calafate and Ushuaia. 

*Note that if you want to hike the famous W trek (or the longer O that includes it), you have to either plan wellll in advance or get very lucky in order to secure accommodation along the route. 

Getting to Ushuaia from Puerto Natales in Chile

Buses between El Calafate and Puerto Natales typically take between five and six hours, including the border crossing. (Once in Puerto Natales, you can rent any gear you need and book transportation to Torres del Paine.)

After your trek, you can take a bus from Puerto Natales to Ushuaia, which takes about 13 hours. (You might think heading to Punta Arenas will shorten the trip, but in reality the trip from Punta Arenas to Ushuaia takes almost as long because of the way the Strait of Magellan is shaped. I loved my trip to Isla Magdalena from Punta Arenas, but you can see penguins in Ushuaia, too. My humble opinion is that it’s not worth going out of your way to Punta Arenas unless it’s time to go home and you need to fly to Santiago.) 

Getting to Ushuaia from El Calafate

If you’re not visiting Torres del Paine on this trip, you can fly directly from El Calafate to Ushuaia in about 75 minutes. Aerolíneas Argentinas has several direct flights per day, but they can be pretty pricey if you don’t grab them early. (Again, a lot of people are coming here to go to Antarctica, so they book many months in advance – and the price is kind of a drop in the bucket in comparison.) 

There is no direct bus, so you’ll have to transfer in Río Gallegos if you go that route. Again, I’ve done it, and honestly I just slept a lot and did a lot of processing of all of the amazing things I’d seen on my adventure. But I was time rich and money poor, and it did take a solid 18 hours. 

Getting back to Buenos Aires

As you’ve probably guessed by now, taking the bus back to Buenos Aires will take over 48 hours. If you’re going to do that, at least give yourself a break in the middle in Puerto Madryn. This small city on the east coast is best known for whale watching from June to December, but it has some nice rocky beaches and is a great place to see other wildlife throughout the year. 

Heading into Chile

As mentioned above, if you have more than three weeks for your trip, you might have already decided to zigzag between Argentinean and Chilean Patagonia. Chile is an absolutely amazing country , and I highly recommend spending some time there if you have it.

From Puerto Natales, consider taking the Navimag ferry (if it’s within your budget) through the Chilean fjords and up to Puerto Montt. From there, you can easily travel to beautiful Chiloé Island or the lovely lakeside town of Puerto Varas (kind of like Chile’s answer to Bariloche).

More on Argentina

How to hit all the Buenos Aires highlights in 4 days

Calle Lanín: A colorful street off the beaten path in Buenos Aires

The 5 best day hikes in Bariloche

Hiking to Refugio Frey from Cerro Catedral in Bariloche

3 days in El Chaltén: Where to hike (and where to eat afterward!)

The most underrated hike in El Chaltén: Loma del Pliegue Tumbado

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3 Weeks in Argentina Itinerary

DISCLAIMER: This post might have links to travel services and products that we enjoy. We might make a commission from it at no extra cost to you.

Argentina, often known as “The Land of Silver,” is a place famous for its dances, delectable cuisine, and stunning scenery.

It is the second largest nation in South America (Brazil being #1), stretching over various natural landscapes and climates. The home of dulce de leche and tango has a lot to offer and should definitely be on your travel wish list.

The country is bordered to the South and West by Chile, to the North by Bolivia and Paraguay, and to the East by Brazil, Uruguay, and the Atlantic Ocean. The fact that Argentina has a total of 35 national parks says more about the country’s beauty . The most well-known locations are also found in massive Patagonia.

3 weeks in Argentina are filled with adventures, learning about its history and culture, and exploring the gateway to Antarctica. Each city and region in Argentina offers different kinds of activities that will ensure that you have a great time during your visit.

MUST-READ: 5 different itineraries for 3 weeks in South America

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE GOING TO ARGENTINA

If you’re arranging a trip to Argentina, you’re definitely looking for the best spots to go and figuring out how to include all the country’s attractions in your itinerary.

There is so much to see and do in Argentina it’s easy to get overwhelmed when visiting. Before touring here, there are a few things to consider that would help plan your trip .

Find out more about the most convenient transportation, the best time to visit, the language spoken here, the widely used mode of payment, and a lot more. With the aid of this guide, your 20 days in Argentina will certainly be memorable.

When is the best time to go to Argentina

Overall, the best time to travel to Argentina is November or April when it’s neither too crowded nor too rainy. Here’s a bit more information about the weather in Argentina for vacation:

• Peak Season : December to February (summer) attracts most tourists, especially in Patagonia, Buenos Aires, and other southern regions.
• Shoulder Season : March to May (fall) and September to November (spring) offer milder weather and fewer tourists, ideal for Buenos Aires and wine regions like Mendoza.
• Rainy Season : In the northwest, such as Salta and Jujuy, rains predominantly occur from December to March.
• Winter season (June – August) is an ideal time to experience skiing and snowboarding, which is perfect for fans of winter sports.

What to pack

If you are spending 3 weeks in Argentina and plan to visit cities and the Patagonia region, your packing list might look different, especially if you plan to travel during winter. The most important thing to remember is to pack clothes for layering instead of bringing bulky and heavy winter jackets .

For people visiting during summer months, bring shawl or scarf that you can use to cover your head and shoulders when entering churches.

For those travelling from the US and Canada, remember that Argentina uses 220V supply voltage . This means that using a power adapter is vital if you don’t want the wall socket to fry up your gadgets.

Some things are cheaper to buy in Argentina than to bring home, especially if you want to travel with carry-on luggage only. Check out our packing list for a 3-week trip , it comes with a free printable. We also have a packing list for summer and winter packing list .

How to get around

The most common and affordable mode of transportation in the country is the bus . They are referred to as “micros” and are often modern, pleasant, and efficient, with reclining seats, air conditioning, and restrooms.

Since public transportation is scarce or nonexistent in places like Patagonia, Northwest, Tierra del Fuego, and Argentina’s magnificent national parks, renting a car provides you greater freedom to explore freely and venture off the beaten path.

There are a few long-distance trains that travel to cities like Córdoba, and they are typically slower and less regular than buses. During rush hour, trains can become uncomfortably crowded, and during the summer, they can become unbearably hot.

In Buenos Aires and other large cities, taxis are prevalent, and if you catch one on the street, be sure the driver utilizes the meter. On the other hand, you can use ride-hailing apps such as Uber, Cabify, and Beat.

Language and currency

The main language in Argentina is Spanish . In major cities like Buenos Aires, and popular tourist destinations, many people, especially those in the tourism and hospitality industries, can communicate in English.

Approximately 15% of Argentines are considered to speak basic English, and 6% are estimated to speak the language well. The most central and tourist areas of the country’s capital, Buenos Aires, are reported to be adequate for using English.

Argentina’s official currency is the Argentine Peso (ARS) . While credit cards are accepted in many hotels, restaurants, and shops, cash is often preferred, especially in smaller establishments and rural areas.

ATMs are widely available, but it’s advisable to carry cash as a backup . Tourists can sometimes pay with USD in tourist-heavy areas, but it’s not universal. For the best rates and to ensure acceptance, it’s wise to use pesos for transactions.

Argentina’s visa policy is quite easy . If your passport is from South America, you have freedom of movement.

While foreign visitors holding passports from North and Central America, Europe, South Africa, New Zealand, Japan, Australia, South Korea, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Russia, Mongolia, and Kazhakstan, you can enter and stay in Argentina for up to 90 days .

Other travel tips

To make your travel planning and arrangement less hassle, check out these sites I use when booking my hotel, flights, tours, car rental, and even travel insurance. A lot of these services have free cancellation and offer a wide range of choices according to your budget.

MUST-SEE PLACES IN ARGENTINA (pinned map)

Click the enlarge button on the top right corner. Credit: map data: Google

3 WEEKS IN ARGENTINA ITINERARY

These in-depth tours of Argentina will take you to some of South America’s most breathtaking locations. In just three weeks, you could cover practically all of Argentina, including its most picturesque cities and natural wonders, and partake in a variety of activities.

Buenos Aires for 3 days

Buenos Aires, the capital of Argentina, is a good starting point on your trip since it is throbbing with stylish and alluring energy. This enormous South American city is made up of distinctively flavorful neighbourhoods that blend South American style with European design.

As the “Paris of the South,” Buenos Aires is home to renowned architecture, top-notch food, exciting entertainment, world-class shopping, historical sites, and more.

Tango is a major component of Argentine culture , and in Buenos Aires, it dominates the scene. The city of Buenos Aires is known for its incredible nightlife, which includes everything from neighbourhood pubs to cocktail bars, from large clubs to secret gig venues, down to underground bars that cater to every taste.

You can also book an airport to hotel transfer to make your trip more convenient.

Things to do in Buenos Aires

• Explore the city – hop-on, hop-off bus tour or this one with an audio or a 3-hour sightseeing tour or a private city tour with a local guide or a half-day bike tour or a walking tour
• Day Trip to Tigre Delta
• Colonia Ferry – read the reviews
• Day Trip to San Antonio de Areco
• Tango Show – with optional dinner or a Piazzolla Tango Show
• Visit Teatro Colon
• Northern Buenos Aires – the famous Tigre River Delta tour
• Visit Puerto Madero
• Gaucho Day Tour – to San Antonio de Areco
• Explore Bosques de Palermo
• Explore Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes
• Join an empanada and steak making – see the price
• Stroll Around Palermo Soho
• Book a Sherpa food tour
• Take Polo Lessons at Estancia Puesto Viejo

Accommodations in Buenos Aires

• Affordable: Reina Madre Hostel or BA STOP Hostel
• Mid-range: Circus Hostel or America Del Sur Hostel
• Luxury: Palladio Hotel or Modern & New Apartment in Palermo or Luxury Apartments in Palermo or Carles Hotel

Cordoba for 3 days

Cordoba, which is Argentina’s second-largest city , has a distinct character from the capital, Buenos Aires. The people of Cordoba are known throughout the nation as being joyful people who like rally car racing, cuarteto music, and the beverages Fernet and Coke.

This city is worth the journey for its blend of old and new. With Jesuit ruins combined with modern art galleries and an increasing student population, make the city hip and fun. 

While most tourists to the country will undoubtedly explore the capital city, the oldest surviving institution in the nation is located here, and its unspoiled surroundings are a great place to go horseback riding and parasailing.

The flight from Buenos Aires to Cordoba takes around 1 hr 25 min . Alternatively, the direct drive from Buenos Aires to Cordoba takes around 7 hr 28 min, covering a distance of 696 km via RN9 and Au 9/Au Cordoba – Rosario.

Things to do in Cordoba

• Day Trip to Mezquita Cathedral de Cordoba
• Day Trip to Jewish Quarter (Juderia)
• Day trip to both La Cumbrecita and Villa General Belgrano – read the reviews
• Stroll Around Patios de Cordoba
• Stroll Around Patio de los Naranjos
• Explore the Historic Centre of Cordoba
• Visit Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos
• Explore Palacio de Viana
• Visit Roman Bridge

Accommodations in Cordoba

• Affordable: Hostel Alvear or 531 Hostel
• Mid-range: Bucanaan Hostel Boutique or Aldea Hostel
• Luxury: AT Suites or Olmos Suites or Holiday Inn Cordoba or Windsor Hotel

Patagonia: San Carlos de Bariloche/El Chalten 4 days

3 weeks in Argentina is not complete without visiting its stunning Patagonia region. San Carlos de Bariloche, a well-known tourist resort in Northern Patagonia , serves as the gateway to scenic landscapes, lots of trekking, and a ton of outdoor adventure sports.

Nicknamed the “Patagonia Light,” this town is undoubtedly a year-round tourism destination, and during winter, guests may go skiing at the neighbouring Cerro Catedral.

There is much to keep you occupied both inside the town of Bariloche and outside it. With its Swiss-inspired centre, Alpine architecture, and superb craft brewers, there is much to do in San Carlos de Bariloche.

The small mountaineering town of El Chalten was established in 1985 and is situated inside Patagonia’s Glaciers National Park. Although Chalten has been dubbed the “National Capital of Trekking,” tourists can also partake in other adventure pursuits.

This includes sailing, kayaking, and horseback riding, in addition to climbing routes and hiking trails. It would be a shame not to visit the area for the absolutely breathtaking jagged peaks towering over turquoise lakes.

The flight from Cordoba to San Carlos de Bariloche takes around 2 hr 10 min , covering a distance of 781 miles (1,257 km). You can choose from 3 airlines that operate these non-stop flights, including Air Labrador, Aerolineas Argentinas, and Felix Airways.

On the other hand, there is no direct flight from Cordoba to El Chalten .  It is common to fly into El Calafate International Airport and drive the final 125 km to El Chaltén from there via rental car, taxi, or bus. Typically, there are 3 bus companies that each offer 2-5 departures every day.

Things to do in San Carlos de Bariloche/El Chalten

• Discover El Chalten – with this full-day trip
• Day Trip to Circuito Chico
• Day Trip to Cerro Tronador
• Laguna de los Tres and Mount Fitz Roy – book a full-day trekking or only Laguna de los Tres
• Explore Parque Nahuelito
• Explore Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi
• Multi-day Hikes (Los Condores, Laguna Capri, Laguna Torre)
• Rio de las Vueltas – go rafting
• Multi-day Hikes (Mirador De Los Condores, Las Aguas)
• Boat Tour to Glacial Lake
• Rafting in De Las Vueltas River Canyon

Accommodations in El Chalten

• Affordable: Rancho Aparte Hostel or Mistico Hostel 23 or Hostel Pioneros del Valle or Hostel Cerro Torres
• Mid-range to Luxury: Andino Aparts or Rancho Grande or Senderos Aparts and Suites or Hosteria Senderos

Patagonia El Calafate for 3 days

This tourist-heavy Patagonian town is full of outdoor activities, and the spectacular beauty of the adjacent Los Glaciares National Park will leave you speechless .

There are hiking routes, mountains, and lakes to explore. In the near vicinity of the town, you can visit icebergs, the native flora and fauna, caverns, and nature reserves.

If you want to travel farther afield, El Calafate is an excellent starting place for exploring the Torres del Paine National Park . Consider going on a walking tour to learn more about El Calafate and see the city from a unique angle.

Wander the town and its markets when you’re exhausted from sightseeing and travelling, or indulge in a craft beer at a nearby brewery. While you’re here, don’t forget to taste some of the iconic Patagonian lambs. You can also visit Patagonia if you plan to travel for 3 weeks in Chile .

The direct drive from El Chalten to El Calafate takes around 3 hr 32 min , covering a distance of 213 km via RP23 and RN40. Alternatively, the bus ride from El Chalten to El Calafate takes around 3 hr and is operated by Chalten Travel 5 times a day.

Some reputable companies that offer private shuttle services include Las Lehengas, Via Patagonia, and Walk Patagonia. You can also book this door-to-door shuttle bus service .

Thigns to do in El Calafate

• Day Trip to Lago Argentino
• Day Trip to Rios de Hielo
• See the Balconies – via a 3-hour 4WD tour
• Day Trip to Upsala Glacier
• Explore Pasarelas Perito Moreno
• Day trip to El Chalten – see the tour price
• Explore Glaciarium Museum
• Horseback Riding at Estancia 25 de Mayo
• Visit Laguna Nimez Reserva Natural Municipal
• Stroll Around Avenida Libertador

Accommodations in El Calafate

• Affordable: Folk Hostel or Bla Guest House or Hosteria Patagonia
• Mid-range: Calafate Hostel or Folk Suites or Bla Lodge or Hosteria La Estapa
• Luxury: Mirador del Lago Hotel or America Del Sur or Hostería Los Gnomos

Ushuaia for 4 days

There are multiple reasons to travel to Argentina, but Ushuaia is arguably at the top of the list for those who love the outdoors. This remote region of South America, often known as “The End of the World,” is home to numerous attractions, such as a former prison, enchanting train journeys, incredible scenery, glaciers, and exceptional wildlife.

When penguins migrate to the area to breed . Between November and February is the ideal time to watch them in Ushuaia.

The highlight of visiting Ushuaia is taking a day trip to Martillo Island, where guests can stroll around for about an hour, which is the best way to see the penguins. The fact that various penguin species inhabit the island only adds to its attraction.

The fastest and most convenient way to arrive from El Calafate to Ushuaia is to book a flight from Aerolineas Argentinas , which takes around 1 hr 47 min to land. Alternatively, you can drive from El Calafate to Ushuaia, which takes around 11 hr 19 min, covering a distance of 877 km via RN3.

Bus service from El Calafate to Ushuaia is not direct . However, some services leave from El Calafate to Ushuaia via Ro Gallegos. The whole trip, including transfers, is about 17 hr 20 min.

Visiting Ushuaia during your 3 weeks in Argentina is a once-in-a-lifetime experience because this is the southern point of the world, the gateway to Antarctica.

Things to do in Ushuaia

• Day Trip to Parque Nacional Tierra del Fuego – via a train or this one or with canoe and trek or with Emerald Lagoon trek
• Day Trip to Isla Martillo
• Day Trip to Canal Beagle/Beagle Channel – boat with trekking or with Sea Wolves Island
• Visit Laguna Esmeralda
• Go Penguin Watching – by a Catamaran boat
• Visit Glacier Martial
• Visit Bahia Lapataia
• Book a Helicopter tour – fly over Ushuaia
• Explore Cerro Castor (Castor Mount)
• Explore Museo Maritimo & del Presidio de Ushuaia

Accommodations in Ushuaia

• Affordable: Anum Hostel or El Refugio Lodge Hostel or Antarctica Hostel
• Mid-range: Hosteria Kupanaka or Oikos or Posada Del Fin Del Mundo
• Luxury: Arakur Ushuaia Resort & Spa or Antarctica Hostel or Hosteria y Restaurante America or Pacífico Apartamentos

SUMMARY OF 3 WEEKS IN ARGENTINA ITINERARY

Argentina is a massive South American nation with plenty of exciting travel destinations. It offers a wide variety of activities and attractions, from glacier expeditions to picturesque sceneries to abundant wildlife. Whether you’re looking for relaxing pubs or challenging Antarctic treks, you’ll certainly enjoy your stay here.

Argentina is packed with once-in-a-lifetime experiences as it combines big city life with rich natural beauties, overflowing with breathtaking natural landscapes, and is filled with options for exploring it all. You’ll definitely have a blast in your 3 weeks in Argentina to fully acquaint yourself with its culture.

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Top 15 things to know before you travel argentina.

Oh Argentina, the stuff many an exotic travel dream is made of.

And yes, there’s no denying I was beyond excited when I finally realised an adventure in this much-fabled country was going to be within my grasp.

Which was back in 2019. In the good old travel days!

While I had 6 whole weeks planned to journey the length and breadth of Argentina – from Salta in the north (after I crossed the land border from Bolivia), right down to Patagonia (the most epic hiking destination) in the south – suddenly everything changed when I found out I had been shortlisted for a British Travel Award (top blog *cough cough*) and so, in order to attend this rather prestigious London event, I had to return earlier than planned to the UK and, sadly, cut my time in Argentina short.

Thankfully I did win the award (yes you are reading the words of the Best British Travel Blogger here… I know!) which made the returning home and the cutting of the time in Argentina well worth it!

And thankfully, I still did get 3 full weeks travelling across the north of the country, which was certainly enough to learn a lot about the things you need to know before you embark on a trip here.

There’s no question I’ll be returning to travel Argentina (especially explore the south of this magical land) just as soon as this annoying pandemic does one, but until then, I’m bringing you my list of the 15 crucial things to know before you hit up this destination.

Because when it comes to what to pack, the issues around money, solo female travel and how to survive as a vegetarian out here, I’d definitely got my fair share of experience!

So here goes….

Related Posts

• 5 Best Places to Visit in Argentina
• 55 Top Things To Do in South America
• Ultimate 10 Day Argentina Itinerary

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#1 How to Travel to Argentina?

So first up, it’s probably a good idea to discuss how you’re going to get to Argentina to begin your travels there.

If you’re already in South America, then it’s good to know Argentina has pretty straightforward land border crossings with Chile, Bolivia, Brazil and Uruguay (although the quickest way to this last country is actually via a ferry crossing!)

Most of these countries have several land borders with Argentina – yes that’s just how huge all the nations are in South America –  and I personally have crossed the border from near Uyuni in Bolivia as well across the border into Brazil from Iguazu Falls .

As long as you plan visas, make an early start and are prepared in advance, these borders shouldn’t present any problems.

Alternatively, if you’re arriving into Argentina from further afield, it’s likely you’ll touch down in the main international airport in Buenos Aires – Ministro Pistarini International Airport, Ezeiza (EZE).

This airport is located just over 22km outside of the city centre, but you can use Uber to get either to your accommodation in the city or to another domestic airport in the capital if you are immediately flying off to another region.

As always, I use Skyscanner to find the best deals on international and domestic flights in Argentina. See more in #7 of this article.

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#2 Visas for Argentina Travel

Most travellers from Europe, the UK, North America, Australia and New Zealand do not require visas to travel Argentina.

You simply get an entry stamp in your passport on arrival, which normally gives you 90 days to explore this country – a good amount of time.

After this point, do make sure you leave the country however, as immigration officials here are very strict when tourists overstay their allocated time and I heard from several travellers that have been banned from re-entering Argentina for a year after not leaving the country on time.

As always, and no matter the passport you hold, I do recommend checking your travel rights in Argentina with your local embassy or foreign office website well in advance of your intended arrival date.

#3 What to Pack?

Argentina is one mighty diverse land, which I’ll cover in more detail in the next point, but suffice to say if you are travelling to several destinations in this country you’ll need a range of clothes and essentials to keep you comfortable across all climates.

This is especially true if you are heading down to the south of the country and / or you plan on doing some serious hiking here, which you certainly should FYI!

I give a complete item by item inventory of exactly what I recommend packing for your Argentinian travels in this complete checklist , so do check it out for more info.

This list was put together after my own travels in Argentina, and more broadly throughout South America, so it certainly has everything you should need, whilst also keeping things light and simple if you’re backpacking like I always am!

#4 Getting to Grips with the Diversity

So yes, as I mentioned above, Argentina is a mighty diverse country.

Perhaps, thanks to its size and the different climates it straddles, it can actually be seen as one of the most diverse nations on the planet.

Form the dry, dusty high altitude deserts in the northern provinces like Salta to the lush, humid and tropical climates around Iguazu Falls , through to the seasonal zones like Buenos Aires and finally the great glacial lands of Patagonia, this country packs it all in.

Which is why it certainly pays to know a little about your travel plans for Argentina in advance.

Knowing which regions you’re likely to travel to, what time of year you plan to visit and what sort of activities you aim to enjoy while you’re there (such as camping and hiking etc) will help you greatly when it comes to knowing the type of weather you can expect and help you pack accordingly!

Remember forewarned is forearmed, and all wise travellers know this!

#5 How to Plan Your Trip?

Another key part of your planning stage, should be setting out a basic itinerary for your travels in Argentina.

Now don’t freak out, I’m not suggesting here that you should have every day of your trip planned out to the nth degree (because trust me, I hate the idea of this just as much as the next freewheeling budget backpacker), but what I am saying is that I would highly advise having a rough itinerary planned out for your travels in Argentina.

Not only will this help with your packing (as outlined above) but it will also help you ascertain whether you can actually fit your intended plans into your intended timeframe!

Yes, when you realise just how long it takes to get between the different regions of this country, and just how much there is to do in each one, you may well need a rethink!

Indeed lots of people, including myself, completely overfill their Argentina itineraries and then, once they look at flights or buses around Argentina and the amount of time these take, do they quite often have to cut down their intended plans by a significant amount!

So, if you want my advice when it comes to Argentina travel plans, less is definitely more.

In Buenos Aires alone, you can easily spend 4-5 days, and that’s without 2-3 days in Iguazu Falls, 4-6 days for the Salta province, not to mention Bariloche, Mendoza and Patagonia… and that’s just the main highlights!

In terms of things you do need to book in advance of your Argentina travels, I would include guided hikes, domestic flights, long distance bus journeys and accommodation in Patagonia in this list because all of these things book up and sell out fast, especially during high season.

#6 Ideal Argentina Travel Itinerary

And this moves us nicely on to my crucial tip here about your Argentina itinerary.

Of course, the time you have to travel this country will drastically alter how much you can fit in, but with anything less than 2 weeks I wouldn’t even think about trying to see the whole country, instead, I would choose half of it (either the north or south) and stick to that.

Because ultimately, not trying to cram everything in will lead to you having a better trip, and isn’t that the point of travelling after all?!

Plus Argentina will always be there for you to return to if you need!

With 2 weeks in the north, I’d concentrate on Buenos Aires, Iguazu Falls, Salta Province and possibly the student city of Cordoba if you have time.

If you’re coming across to Argentina from Chile, it may make sense for you to skip Salta (which will be sad, because this region is amazing) but possibly replace it with the equally sublime lake and hiking destination of Bariloche and the famous wine region of Mendoza.

Both of these lie closer to the Chilean border and coupled with Buenos Aires, will take you from west to east across Argentina.

Otherwise, if you’re seriously into your hiking and you time your trip right (namely some point between November and February), then it’s hard to beat Patagonia as a destination in itself for at least a week or 2.

This vast and unique natural landscape boasts incredible scenery, glaciers, wildlife as well as remote outdoor action and should not be missed.

Of course, if you have longer to travel Argentina, say 3 weeks+, you can start to combine some of these itineraries to create an epic journey across the country.

Just don’t plan to do too much!

#7 Using Domestic Flights

Not that I’m a fan of too much flying as regular readers will know (there is a climate crisis y’all), but I do accept, that most travellers in Argentina will take at least one domestic flight during their travels here.

And that’s simply because, as I’ve already said at least 3 times in this article (so sorry if I sound like I’m rabbiting on about the same point!) the distance between destinations in Argentina is huge.

For those on a tight timeframe, domestic flights are basically a necessity and if you’re thinking of heading to either Patagonia or Iguazu, they’re basically a done deal because the bus journeys to either of these places, from the nearest other major destinations are at least 24 hours… if not more!

Learn more about how to get to Iguazu Falls from Buenos Aires in this post I wrote.

In general, I recommend booking domestic flights at least 2 weeks in advance, more in high season, because the most popular tourist routes sell out fast.

The good news is that there are budget airlines that offer good prices on domestic flights within Argentina and you can compare them all over at Skyscanner – my fav site for finding the best flights deals.

#8 Taking Domestic Buses / Coaches

If you’re not flying, or trying not to fly everywhere in Argentina (and good on you), then long distance buses or coaches are the best way to get between destinations.

Luxury liners services destinations across Argentina and are used by many locals and travellers alike.

In general, standards are good, but you do get for what you pay for i.e. the more luxury services with comfier seats etc will cost more. I recommend paying a bit more for night buses especially.

Taking night buses is a good way to save on a night’s accommodation and shuffle you between destinations without wasting an extra day of your trip – key if you’re on a short trip and wanting to see as much as possible.

A good travel pillow as well as excellent earplugs and a decent eye mask are a must for long distance night buses in South America FYI!

I took long distance buses several times in Argentina, both during the day and night, and found the services very good and secure.

Buses can be booked in person at the central stations you’ll find almost every town. This tends to be where all the bus departures leave from, and each company (and there’s a lot) will have their own window / ticket booth where you can buy tickets.

You can also buy tickets online in advance, which I would suggest doing at least 1 week in advance of any major journeys, such as overnight voyages.

I recommend Bookaway for this purpose, as they allow you to compare flights and buses, book securely online and make everything easy to read in English!

Just remember to keep a bit of spare change as you’ll have to tip / pay for the luggage handlers to load your bag each time you get on a bus in Argentina – this is not really optional.

#9 Travel Safety Issues

And talking about catching buses in Argentina leads me nicely onto discussing safety in this country more generally.

Throughout my time travelling in Argentina I felt entirely safe – even when staying in budget accommodation and catching overnight buses, my travels were hassle and worry-free.

The only place I would advise you maybe are a bit more wary is in major cities, especially Buenos Aires, where crime against tourists can occur, in particular robbery and mugging.

That said, I visited and walked around Buenos Aires by myself without any problems, but was careful to not have my phone out on the street or to walk around by myself after dark.

I also made sure I based myself in a more upmarket area – trendy Palermo to be specific – which I highly recommend you do too.

Taking free walking tours in this city (of which there are many) is a great way to see the capital and feel safe even as a solo traveller.

Learn more about the best itinerary for visiting Buenos Aires in this post I wrote about the city.

Buying a tourist SIM card is another great way to feel safe in Argentina because this allows you to keep in touch with people at home, use live maps to orientate yourself and also book or contact accommodation / tours / guides etc when you are out and about.

Keep your phone on you, but not in a pocket – a bumbag slung across your shoulder and front of your body is a great idea here.

In case you are the victim of any crime in Argentina, or worse have an accident or need medical assistance, then a key safety tip is to buy travel insurance for your trip to this country.

Alternatively, if you’re a long-term traveller, digital nomad or frequent remote worker seeking travel health cover, check out Safetywing’s Nomad Insurance policies.

#10 Solo Female Travel in Argentina

And getting a SIM card when you are in Argentina is also one of my top tip for solo females travellers in this country.

Although I don’t recommend whipping your phone out on display at every opportunity, especially not in major cities here, having a phone with you, especially when it comes to being able to navigate yourself, is a great idea.

It always makes me feel safer and knowing I can contact people wherever I am, definitely brings peace of mind.

Also be careful going out alone at night – although again this only really applies to cities – as I felt very safe wandering out for dinner of an evening in almost any smaller Argentina town I visited.

I even went out in Buenos Aires of an evening too – at one point not making it home until 6am, although that’s a different story – but was always with other people, using Uber rather than walking, and never alone.

Yes, taking an Uber is a great option after dark in the capital… or at anytime!

Picking up a bit of Spanish can make you feel safer too in Argentina, as can staying in hostels where it’s easier to get local advice and to meet other travellers.

It’s all common sense really.

If you think learning a bit of Spanish sounds like a good idea, then check out the great free language learning app – Duolingo – and also the Latin American Spanish Lonely Planet phrasebook.

I found this very helpful.

Just don’t forget the language they speak in Argentina is very different to a lot of the Spanish you may recognise elsewhere in this continent or in Europe!

#11 Costs of Travelling in Argentina

And now we come to the big one – how much does it cost to travel Argentina?

Well, honestly that depends when you are reading this post and when you are planning to visit, because the one thing you should know when you plan to travel Argentina, is that the economy of this country has a habit of being a bit unpredictable.

When I visited in 2019, they were again suffering a terrible economic recession, which tends to happen more regularly than it should here.

The Argentinian Peso was almost in freefall and while this made the country very cheap foreigners, it was very hard on local people.

Many restrictions had been bought in, which meant accessing money could be difficult for all parties, which leads me into my next point.

#12 ATM Fees

Because of the highly erratic and worrying value of the Argentinian Peso when I was in the county, there were big restrictions on how much local people could withdraw from the ATM on a daily basis.

At one point this was really low, barely enough to survive on

In some places, this also translated to tourists, which meant many travellers found themselves without enough cash to pay for their accommodation etc.

My tip therefore, is to strongly check the state of the Argentina economy before your travels and also to familiarise yourself with any restrictions there may be in advance.

Bring cash, and plenty of it too, as that never fails.

It’s also useful to know many Argentina ATM machines charge foreign cards a crazy fee to use them.

#13 Western Union App

For this reason, and because they gave incredible rates when I was there, one of the best tips I can give for when you travel in Argentina is to download and use the Western Union app .

This is a global app that worked brilliantly in Argentina and was used by almost every traveller on the circuit when I was there because the news of it spread like wildfire!

The basic way to use the app is to load currency from your bank account onto the Western Union app, convert this from your home currency into Argentinian Pesos at a great rate, and then go into a Western Union office in Argentina to collect your cash.

The fees are much lower, the amount you can take out much larger than the ATMs and the exchange rate is better too.

You’re welcome! …. and no, this is not sponsored, it’s just a great piece of advice!

#14 Drinking

You can’t really come to Argentina and not try at least some of the amazing wine this country is famous for, preferably within the place it’s made.

Mendoza is the main spot, but the smaller town of Cafayate is also delightful.

Both allow you to rent bikes and cycle to nearby vineyards to savour the produce with some seriously epic natural backdrops.

Craft beer is also taking hold in Argentina and trendy Palermo in Buenos Aires is the spot to try many of the news ones.

Otherwise, the other local tipple is Fernet – lethal stuff that is usually served after a meal but may also be served mixed into coffee.

You can blame the Italian influence in the country for this one!

It’s good to know tap water is safe to drink in most parts of Argentina.

That said, I still like travelling with my trusty Lifestraw Filter Bottle , an amazing bit of travel technology that makes it safe to drink tap water anywhere in the world by filtering out 99.9% of harmful bacteria.

#15 Eating & Dietary Requirements

And finally we come to the food factor!

Of course Argentina is known for its steak and if you eat the meat you should probably try this when you are here.

If you don’t however, you need not fret.

I found it easy to travel in Argentina as a vegetarian, especially in major cities and towns where the food scene is quite progressive.

Bread is served with most meals, so gluten-intolerant people however, may find they have a slightly harder time.

Local markets and supermarkets sell an array of fresh products and western goods, which means you can generally get your hands on whatever you need!

The Italian influence in this country also means Italian food here can be sensational. Some of the best pizza I ever had was in the capital, BA, no joke!

PIN IT TO PINTEREST!

So there we have it, my list of the top 15 things to know before you travel Argentina.

Have you visited this epic South American country?

Do you have any advice to add to this list?

Please join the discussion in the comments box below…

Creator of Big World Small Pockets, Stephanie Parker is a travel addict! Originally from Jersey in the Channel Islands, Stephanie adventures the world collecting tips, advice and stories, to share with a smile

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Argentina Itinerary Ideas: Options for 1-4 Weeks in Argentina in 2024

Looking for Argentina itinerary ideas for how to spend 1-4 weeks in the country? I’m a former Argentina expat who’s spent a lot of time travelling around Argentina. Here are my suggestions for how to plan the perfect itinerary for Argentina.

Welcome to the land of tango, wine and some of the most breathtaking landscapes on our planet – yes, we’re talking about Argentina!

It’s vast ( really vast, like the eighth largest country in the world kind of vast), so planning your trip can seem a bit daunting at first. But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. Drawing from my two years of living and travelling extensively in this beautiful country, I’ve put together a range of itineraries to help you make the most of your time, be it one, two, three or even four weeks here.

From the buzzing cosmopolitan city of Buenos Aires to the stunning Iguazu Falls in the north to the majestic glaciers of Patagonia in the south, these itineraries are practical and achievable, and packed with the very best experiences Argentina has to offer.  

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).

What's in this article (Click to view)

Planning your Argentina travel itinerary

There are a few things you need to know about planning an Argentina itinerary – and what’s behind how I’ve designed these itineraries.

If you’re across the details, jump straight to the Argentina itineraries:

• 7 days in Argentina

2 weeks in Argentina

3 weeks in argentina.

• 1 month in Argentina

How much time do you need in Argentina?

Firstly, let’s address the elephant in the room – the sheer size of Argentina. As the eighth largest country in the world, Argentina is massive. The country stretches for about 3,650 kilometres from north to south and spans 1,400 kilometres at its widest point from east to west. Exploring all of Argentina’s diverse landscapes and vibrant cities requires some serious mileage and time.

So, depending on how much time you can get off work, you’re going to have to make some hard decisions about where to focus your itinerary.

I think you need a minimum of one week, which is where I’ve started these Argentina itinerary ideas.

Where should you start your Argentina itinerary?

All of the itinerary ideas I’ve included start from Buenos Aires. I’ve done this because it’s the capital city with the most international connections.

If you’re coming from a neighbouring country and crossing the border by land or flying into another Argentina city, you’ll need to adjust these itineraries.

How to get around Argentina

These itineraries all include flying – it’s the easiest and quickest way to get around Argentina.

Some cities in Argentina aren’t connected directly by air, so you might need to go via Buenos Aires. I’ve tried to avoid this as much as possible with these itineraries. Consider buying carbon offsets! Check Skyscanner for routes and pricing .

With some of these itineraries, you might be renting a car in Argentina – hello road trip! Driving in Argentina is safe and a great way to see the country. But I’ve only done this for certain sections of itineraries because it would take too long to do it all by car. Check car rentals online with DiscoverCars .

If you’re on a budget, bus travel might be a better option. I haven’t considered long-haul bus travel in any of these itineraries, so you will need to adjust based on bus schedules.

Read more about getting around in my Argentina travel tips guide .

What do you want to see and do in Argentina?

These itineraries are just a guide. Adjust them based on what you want to do in Argentina. Do you want to get outdoors or are cities more your thing? Is trying local wines and Argentinian food a priority?

Pick your priorities and focus on these to get the best out of your time.

When is the best time to visit Argentina?

The best time to visit Argentina is spring, from September to November, when the weather is milder and crowds fewer. Autumn (March to May) is another great time to visit.

The peak tourist season in Argentina is during the summer months of December to February, but this also means higher prices and bigger crowds. Buenos Aires can be sweltering during these months, but it’s the best time to head south to Patagonia.

In the winter months (June to August), Patagonia pretty much shuts down, so you won’t be able to visit this region. But if skiing is on your cards, this is a great time to visit.

Argentina itineraries for 1 week to 1 month

Here are my suggestions for how to spend your time in Argentina. Click on the links below to jump straight to the itinerary of your choice.

For each itinerary, I list where to go each day and then, to avoid repeating myself for each section, I’ve included links to jump to the bottom of the article for details on what to do in each destination and where to stay.

Argentina map: Where to go in Argentina

This map of Argentina shows these itineraries – click on the layer that corresponds to the itinerary you want to see. (You’ll need to click the little arrow in the top left-hand corner to show the layers, and then click the boxes beside the itineraries to toggle them on and off.)

Argentina itinerary 7 days

A week in Argentina may seem like a whirlwind tour, but with strategic planning, it’s enough to scratch the surface of the country (and leave you wanting more). Given the vastness of Argentina and the limitations set by flight connections, your itinerary will mostly be confined to a few days in Buenos Aires before whisking yourself off to one more destination of your choice.

You need to be realistic about what you can see and do in a week, which is why I recommend a few days in Buenos Aires followed by a few days in another destination before you head back to Buenos Aires for your flight home. Here are several options for how you can spend a week in Argentina.

Once you’ve decided on your itinerary, jump to what to do in Argentina to plan out your days .

Option 1: Buenos Aires and Mendoza

Discover what makes Buenos Aires such a cool city before heading over to Argentina’s most famous wine region, Mendoza.

Days 1-3: Buenos Aires – overnight in Buenos Aires

Days 4-6: Mendoza – overnight in Mendoza

Day 7: Return to Buenos Aires / depart Argentina

Option 2: Buenos Aires and Bariloche

Combine big-city Buenos Aires with the beautiful outdoors of Bariloche in northern Patagonia.

Days 4-6: Bariloche – overnight in Bariloche

Option 3: Buenos Aires and North Argentina

Spend a couple of days in Buenos Aires before heading to the north of Argentina – my favourite part of the country for stunning landscapes and wineries. You’ll need to cut your stay in Buenos Aires to two days to be able to fit in the highlights of the north.

Days 1-2: Buenos Aires – overnight in Buenos Aires

Day 3: Salta – overnight in Salta

Days 4-5: Purmamarca, Tilcara and Humahuaca – overnight in Purmamarca

Day 6: Cafayate – overnight in Cafayate

Day 7: Return to Salta, fly back to Buenos Aires / depart Argentina

Option 4: Buenos Aires and Peninsula Valdes

After a few days in bustling Buenos Aires, Peninsula Valdes is your next destination for wildlife watching.

Days 4-6: Peninsula Valdes – overnight in Puerto Madryn

Option 5: Buenos Aires, El Calafate and El Chaltén

Spend a few days wandering Buenos Aires then head south for hiking in Patagonia – including trekking on a glacier !

Days 3-4: El Calafate and Perito Moreno Glacier – overnight in El Calafate

Days 5-6: Hiking and views in El Chaltén – overnight in El Chaltén

Day 7: Return to El Calafate, flight back to Buenos Aires / depart Argentina

While you can see a few highlights in one week, I think 2 weeks in Argentina is the minimum time you should plan for a visit.

Here, I’ve got two different itinerary options – one explores the iconic Patagonian south of Argentina, while the other takes you to the beautiful north of the country.

I like to pack a lot in, so adjust these itineraries to suit your travel speed.

2 weeks in Argentina – Itinerary option 1

This itinerary explores cosmopolitan Buenos Aires before heading south for a taster of Patagonia’s highlights: Perito Moreno Glacier and hiking. Heading back north, you’ll then stop in either Mendoza for wine tasting or Bariloche for more outdoor experiences, before returning to Buenos Aires.

Buenos Aires – El Calafate – El Chaltén – Bariloche OR Mendoza – Buenos Aires

Day 4: Fly to El Calafate – overnight in El Calafate

Day 5: Perito Moreno Glacier – overnight in El Calafate

Day 6: El Chaltén – overnight in El Chaltén

Take a private transfer or the 3.5-hour bus trip to El Chaltén, Argentina’s hiking capital.

If you’ve arrived in the morning, then hit the ground running in the afternoon by heading off on an easy hike. The Mirador Los Condors/Mirador Las Aguilas or Chorillo del Salto hikes are both easy hikes between 1-2 hours long.

Day 7: Hiking in El Chaltén – overnight in El Chaltén

Day 8: Hiking in El Chaltén – overnight in El Chaltén

Day 9: Travel to Mendoza or Bariloche – overnight in Mendoza or Bariloche

You’ve got two options for the next leg of your trip. You can either head to the wine region of Mendoza or escape to the beautiful outdoors of Bariloche.

To get to either region, you’ll need to head back to El Calafate to catch your flight. Unfortunately, there are no direct flights from El Calafate to Mendoza, so you’ll have a long day of travel as you’ll need to connect (most likely through Buenos Aires).

There are direct flights from El Calafate to Bariloche daily.

Days 10-12: Mendoza or Bariloche – overnight in Mendoza or Bariloche

Day 13: Return to Buenos Aires. Spend the day ticking off anything you weren’t able to do when you first arrived in the city – overnight in Buenos Aires

Day 14: Fly home, sadly your 2 weeks in Argentina are up!

Argentina 2 week itinerary – Option 2

This itinerary starts in Buenos Aires, where you’ll explore what makes this city so cool. Heading north, you’ll visit jaw-dropping Iguazu Falls before heading to the desert for stunning landscapes. The visit to the north includes a few days exploring wineries in Cafayate , Argentina’s “other” wine region, before returning to Buenos Aires.

Buenos Aires – Iguazu Falls – Salta – Purmamarca (and nearby Tilcara, Humahuaca and Salinas Grandes) – Cafayate – Buenos Aires

Day 4: Fly to Iguazu Falls – overnight in Puerto Iguazu

Head to the airport for your flight to Puerto Iguazu. Check in to your hotel and, depending on what time you’ve arrived, head out for your first glimpse of the falls.

Days 5-6: Explore the incredible Iguazu Falls – both the Argentine and Brazillian sides if you can – overnight in Puerto Iguazu

Day 7: Fly to Salta – overnight in Salta

From the lush tropical rainforest, you’re now off to the desert. Catch a flight to Salta. Direct flights from Puerto Iguazu depart on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday, so try to plan your trip around these days if you can. If not, you’ll probably have a long day of travel and have to transit through Buenos Aires.

Day 8: Salta – overnight in Salta

Days 9-10: Purmamarca, Humahuaca, Tilcara and Salinas Grandes – overnight in Purmamarca

Days 11-12: Cafayate – overnight in Cafayate

Day 13: Return to Salta and fly back to Buenos Aires – overnight in Buenos Aires

Today, head back to Salta. It’s a 3-hour drive, so plan your schedule so you can return your rental car and get a flight back to Buenos Aires.

Head out for your final night in Buenos Aires.

Day 14: Fly home

Today’s your final day in Argentina, so tick off anything you didn’t get done when you were in Buenos Aires earlier. 

With three weeks in Argentina, you can venture both north and south of the country. Here’s my recommendation for a 3-week trip.

Buenos Aires – El Calafate – El Chaltén – Mendoza OR Bariloche – Salta – Purmamarca (and nearby Tilcara, Humahuaca and Salinas Grandes) – Cafayate – Salta – Buenos Aires

Days 7-8: Hiking in El Chaltén – overnight in El Chaltén

Day 9: Fly to Mendoza or Bariloche – overnight in Mendoza or Bariloche

For the next part of the trip, you’ve got two options: head to Mendoza for wine country or Bariloche for beautiful outdoors.

To get to either region, you’ll need to head back to El Calafate to catch your flight. There are direct flights from El Calafate to Bariloche daily.

Unfortunately, there are no direct flights from El Calafate to Mendoza, so you’ll have a long day of travel as you’ll need to connect (most likely through Buenos Aires).

Days 10-11: Mendoza or Bariloche – overnight in Mendoza or Bariloche

Day 12: Fly to Salta – overnight in Salta

From Mendoza to Salta, there are direct flights on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.

From Bariloche to Salta, you’ll have to transit via Buenos Aires, Mendoza or Cordoba.

Day 13: Salta – overnight in Salta

Days 14-15: Purmamarca, Humahuaca, Tilcara and Salinas Grandes – overnight in Purmamarca

Rent a car to explore this beautiful area north of Salta.

Days 16-17: Cafayate – overnight in Cafayate

Day 18: Return to Salta, flight to Puerto Iguazu – overnight in Puerto Iguazu

Head back to Salta with time to return your rental car and get on a flight to Puerto Iguazu. There are direct flights on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. If you can’t get a direct flight , you will need to go via Buenos Aires, which will make it a long day of travelling.

Day 19: Iguazu Falls – overnight in Puerto Iguazu

Day 20: Iguazu Falls, return to BA – overnight in Buenos Aires

Depending on what time your flight to Buenos Aires is, try to sneak in another visit to Iguazu Falls to gaze in awe.

When you arrive back in Buenos Aires, check in to your hotel and hit the town for your final night in the country.

Day 21: Buenos Aires and home

If you have a later flight, head out for one final exploration of Buenos Aires. Don’t worry – I know you’ll be back! 

4 weeks in Argentina itinerary

Now we’re talking! With a month in Argentina, you can see a lot of the country. Here’s a suggested 4-week Argentina itinerary. Once again, I have packed this itinerary, so you can slow it right down and just hit a few highlights if that’s more your travel style.

Buenos Aires – Tigre – Colonia del Sacramento (Uruguay) – Peninsula Valdes – Ushuaia – El Calafate – El Chaltén – Bariloche OR Mendoza – Salta – Purmamarca (and nearby Tilcara, Humahuaca and Salinas Grandes) – Cafayate – Iguazu Falls – Buenos Aires 

Day 4: Day trip to Tigre – overnight in Buenos Aires

Day 5: Day trip to Colonia del Sacramento – overnight in Buenos Aires

Day 6: Fly to Peninsula Valdes – overnight in Puerto Madryn

To get to Peninsula Valdes – where you’ll find sea lions, Magellanic penguins, elephant seals, plenty of birdlife and, depending on the season, whales – you can fly into Puerto Madryn or Trelew airports . Check both to see which has the best price/schedule.

Days 7-8: Peninsula Valdes – overnight in Puerto Madryn

Day 9: Fly to Ushuaia – overnight in Ushuaia

Head deeper into Patagonia. Ushuaia is the “end of the world” and the gateway to Antarctica.

You’ll need to depart from Trelew Airport . There are direct flights to Ushuaia on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.

Days 10-11: Ushuaia – overnight in Ushuaia

Day 12: Fly to El Calafate – overnight in El Calafate

Day 13: Perito Moreno Glacier – overnight in El Calafate

Day 14: Travel to El Chaltén – overnight in El Chaltén

Days 15-16: El Chaltén – overnight in El Chaltén

Day 16: Fly to Mendoza or Bariloche – overnight in Mendoza or Bariloche

Days 17-19: Bariloche or Mendoza – overnight in Bariloche or Mendoza

Day 20: Fly to Salta – overnight in Salta

Day 21: Salta – overnight in Salta

Days 22-23: Purmamarca, Humahuaca, Tilcara and Salinas Grandes – overnight in Purmamarca

Days 24-25: Cafayate – overnight in Cafayate

Day 26: Return to Salta, flight to Puerto Iguazu – overnight in Puerto Iguazu

Head back to Salta with time to return your rental car and get on a flight to Puerto Iguazu. There are direct flights on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. If you can’t get a direct flight, you will need to go via Buenos Aires, which will make it a long day of travelling.

Days 27-28: Iguazu Falls – overnight in Puerto Iguazu

Day 29: Iguazu Falls, return to BA – overnight in Buenos Aires

Depending on what time your flight to Buenos Aires is, try to sneak in another visit to Iguazu Falls.

Day 30: Fly home

Sadly, it’s time to leave Argentina. You’ve fit quite a bit in with a month in the country! But I’m sure there are still things on your list that you’ll be back to tick off.

What to do in Argentina

So, now you’ve got an idea of how to plan your itinerary, what will you do when you’re in Argentina? This section outlines everything to do in the cities and destinations I’ve recommended in the itineraries above, with day-by-day suggestions. Get more inspiration from my guide to the 50 best things to do in Argentina .

Click through to the destinations that have made the cut for your itinerary:

• Buenos Aires
• Colonia del Sacramento
• Purmamarca, Humahuaca, Tilcara
• Iguazu Falls
• Peninsula Valdes
• El Calafate

What to do in Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires was my home for two years and it’s an unforgettable city. A great mix of South American passion and culture and European architecture, you can easily fill three days in Buenos Aires .

On day 1, begin your Buenos Aires adventure in the city’s heart with a cortado at Café Tortoni. Explore the historic Plaza de Mayo, surrounded by the iconic Casa Rosada, Catedral Metropolitana and Cabildo. If visiting on a weekend, consider a guided tour of Casa Rosada.

Head south to the bohemian San Telmo neighbourhood, known for its antique shops and the bustling San Telmo market – best visited on Sunday for a fun atmosphere. Don’t miss El Zanjón de Granados, a network of tunnels beneath the streets.

Later, hop on a bus to La Boca to wander through El Caminito, the colourful streets that always appear in tourist photos. In the evening, learn about Argentine food culture with The Argentine Experience , and end the night at one of the city’s many cocktail bars.

On day 2, head to the elegant Recoleta neighbourhood (my old home!). Join a free walking tour with Free Walks Buenos Aires. Visit the opulent Teatro Colón and end your tour at the famous Recoleta Cemetery , home to Evita’s tomb. Marvel at the architecture of El Ateneo Grand Splendid, a bookstore housed in a former theatre. In the evening, catch a tango show at Bar Sur in San Telmo.

On day 3, spend your morning shopping in Palermo or admiring art at Museo de Arte Latinoamericano de Buenos Aires. Alternatively, relax in the parks of Palermo or visit the serene Jardín Japonés. Later, explore Buenos Aires’ street art with Graffiti Mundo . End your trip with a memorable dinner at Don Julio, one of the city’s most famous steakhouses. (I have more places to eat in Buenos Aires !)

Where to stay in Buenos Aires

Luxury: (⭐ 9.0) BE Jardin Escondido by Coppola was once Francis Ford Coppola’s house and is now a cozy boutique hotel in the trendy Palermo neighbourhood.

Mid-range:  (⭐ 8.7) The rooms at Hotel Club Frances , in the heart of Recoleta, are spacious and some have a sauna and spa bath.

Budget: (⭐ 9.7) Casa Caravan has to be one of the cooler hostels I’ve seen, with a gorgeous garden, swimming pool, bar, clean rooms and comfy beds.

What to do on a day trip to Tigre

Just a short train ride from Buenos Aires, Tigre (and the surrounding Paraná Delta) is the perfect place to chill out for a day. It’s an unexpected destination so close to a major city – a network of islands and canals that can be explored by boat. Spend your day cruising along the waterways, checking out the houses on stilts and belle époque mansions.

Don’t miss the Puerto de Frutos market where you can buy everything from homemade jams to artisan crafts. For art enthusiasts, the Museo de Arte Tigre showcases beautiful Argentine art in an equally stunning building. Those interested in history can explore the Museo Naval de la Nación, which explores Argentina’s maritime past. There are several riverside restaurants or cafes where you can eat a meal before heading back to Buenos Aires in the evening.

If you don’t want to visit Tigre alone, consider one of these tours:

• Tour the Tigre River Delta and San Isidro, including a cruise around the canals, the fruit market and the cathedral. Includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, guide and snacks. Book the Tigre and San Isidro tour here .
• This half-day tour includes a cruise on the Rio de la Plata to Tigre with a guide. You’ll visit the riverside market and Tigre’s historical centre. Book the small-group tour to Tigre online here .

What to do on a day trip to Colonia del Sacramento

With an extra day in Buenos Aires, it’s easy to leap the Rio de la Plata into Uruguay to visit the town of Colonia del Sacramento.

Only a short ferry ride from Buenos Aires, this compact, historic town is a UNESCO World Heritage site with cobblestone streets, rustic old buildings and great restaurants. Begin your day trip at the Barrio Histórico, where you’ll find most of the town’s attractions. Visit the lighthouse, El Faro, for a panoramic view of the town and the river beyond.

Stop by the Plaza de Armas, where you can visit the Basilica del Santisimo Sacramento, an iconic structure that has stood the test of time since the 17th century. The Calle de los Suspiros (Street of Sighs) is filled with lovely buildings (and a supposed tragic past). There are also several museums.

Round off your day with a waterfront sunset at the old city wall before you hop on the ferry back to Buenos Aires.

If the thought of trying to navigate the ferry from Buenos Aires to Uruguay seems to hard, these tours can arrange everything for you:

• This private full-day tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, ferry tickets and a driver/guide in Colonia del Sacramento. Book this tour now .
• This tour arranges ferry tickets for you, with the option of a tour in Colonia del Sacramento. Book this tour now .

Don’t forget your passport!

What to do in Mendoza

Head to Mendoza to try Argentina’s famous Malbec wine in vineyards set among the mountains.

Mendoza has three wine regions: Maipu, Lujan de Cuyo and the Uco Valley. Explore them by bike, on horseback or via a guided tour.

Maipu is known for its traditional wine-making methods with several family-run wineries. Lujan de Cuyo is often referred to as the birthplace of Malbec. The Uco Valley has panoramic views and high-altitude vineyards.

Spend two days exploring the different regions. It can be hard to choose among the hundreds of vineyards around Mendoza, so leave it in the hands of a guide who can direct you to the best ones. Here are some recommended tours to consider:

• Full-day private wine tour with 3-course lunch. Book online here .
• Explore the wineries of the Uco Valley at your own pace on this private tour. Book online here .
• This small-group tour of the Maipu Valley include a 3-course lunch. Book the tour here .

Want to be a bit more adventurous? I really enjoyed our winery bike tour with Martin’s Bikes .

Then dedicate the third day of your Mendoza adventure to rejuvenation and relaxation. Visit the Cacheuta Thermal Springs in the Andes mountains. These hot springs are a serene retreat, with therapeutic thermal waters, spa services and beautiful mountain views. Make sure you book the spa, not the water park. This tour arranges entry to the hot springs with transport from Mendoza .

Nearby is the Incan Bridge, a natural arch that has formed over the Las Cuevas River. Take a hike to see it and enjoy the stunning views of the Andes. Around this region, there’s also horseback riding , whitewater rafting and hiking.

You can rent a car to get around the region, or book one of these recommended tours:

• This small-group day trip explores the Andes Mountains and Aconcagua National Park from Mendoza. An asado lunch (with wine!) is included. Book online here .
• Discover the natural beauty of the Andes Mountains on this full-day tour from Mendoza which visits the Potrerillos Dam and the Puente del Inca. Book the tour here .

Where to stay in Mendoza

Casa de Uco Vineyard & Wine Resort is seemingly an extension of the stunning landscape that surrounds the hotel. Neutral colours, natural wood, thick columns and huge glass ceilings are designed to blend into the nearby mountains and vineyards.

Imagine waking up, stepping out onto your private terrace and finding yourself surrounded by views of the snowcapped Andes and Malbec vineyards. Entre Cielos makes that vision come true. The onsite spa and hammam offers grape-based treatments to soothe and revitalise guests.

What to do in Bariloche

Welcome to San Carlos de Bariloche, the chocolate capital of Argentina – and one of the most beautiful places to visit in Argentina .

Start your first day by strolling around the charming Swiss-style architecture of the town, with its picturesque backdrop of mountains and lakes. The Centro Cívico is the city square with surrounding Alpine-style buildings that house the city’s main public institutions. This includes the Francisco Moreno Museum of Patagonia, where you can learn about the region’s natural and indigenous history.

No trip to Bariloche would be complete without indulging in its famous chocolate. Stroll down Calle Mitre, the main avenue, home to several renowned chocolaterías like Mamuschka and Rapa Nui. Try a few flavours along with a submarino , a type of hot chocolate that involves melting a whole bar of chocolate in warm milk.

On day two, embark on the stunning journey through the Ruta de los Siete Lagos , or the Seven Lakes Route. This scenic road trip, with its spectacular vistas of crystal-clear lakes, lush forests and snow-capped mountains, is unforgettable. Rent a car for the day or take a guided tour .

On your third day, surround yourself with even more beauty with a trip to Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi. There are plenty of hikes in the national park. Other ideas include taking a boat across to the beautiful Parque Nacional Los Arraynes or biking or driving the 65-kilometre Circuito Chico route.

Don’t want to get active? Then spend your third day in hippie-loving El Bolson, known for its beer and homemade sweet treats and jams. It’s a 2-hour bus ride from Bariloche.

Where to stay in Bariloche

One of South America’s most famous hotels, Llao Llao has hosted many famous guests. The dramatic scenery over the Moreno and Nahuel Huapi lakes and the nearby mountains make for a stunning location. Rooms are decorated in the warm style of a mountain lodge.

Wake up to a view of sparkling Nahuel Huapi lake from your comfortable bed at Las Balsas , located near the charming town of Villa La Angostura. The blue façade of the hotel has become its trademark, and it houses rooms that feel more homely than hotel.

What to do in Salta

Salta is the gateway to my favourite part of Argentina: the north. Visiting here means getting off the well-worn tourist trail and exploring an area that is filled with stunning landscapes and a culture far different to the rest of the country.

Salta is a charming city known for its Spanish colonial architecture. Start your visit by taking a stroll around the Plaza 9 de Julio, the city’s main square. Here, you’ll find the striking Salta Cathedral and the Museum of High Altitude Archaeology, which houses Incan artifacts and the mummified bodies of three Incan children discovered in the nearby mountains. For a history lesson, join a Salta walking tour .

In the afternoon, head to San Bernardo’s Hill for panoramic views of the city and the Lerma Valley. You can take the cable car (teleférico) up and then hike back down.

In the evening, head to a peña (a folk music event) to get a taste of Salta’s traditional music and dance.

Where to stay in Salta

• Luxury: Hotel Legado Mítico is a delightful townhouse filled with leather armchairs, cowhide rugs and antiques. This cozy hotel epitomises stereotypical northwest Argentina, but in a sophisticated way. Check rates and make a booking at Booking.com
• Mid-range: Design Suites Salta (where we stayed) is a modern hotel with spacious bedrooms. It’s located within walking distance of the main area of the city. Book your stay at Design Suites Salta today on Booking.com

What to do in Purmamarca, Humahuaca and Tilcara

In Salta, pick up a rental car and head north to Purmamarca, a village renowned for the dramatic Seven Colours Hill (Cerro de los Siete Colores). The drive takes about three hours, but take your time and stop in at the small towns along the way.

Wander around Purmamarca and pick up rugs, blankets and other woven goods at the markets, or take the easy 3km walk around the hill.

Staying overnight in Purmamarca means you’ll have the Seven Colours Hill all to yourself once the tour buses depart in the evening. It’s a beautiful spot at sunset.

On your second day, continue north to Humahuaca, a small town with a rich indigenous history. Here, you can visit the Monumento a los Héroes de la Independencia, a towering statue honouring those who fought for Argentina’s independence. The markets here are also good, filled with handmade crafts and traditional textiles.

Driving through the Quebrada de Humahuaca is stunning.

On your way to Humahuaca, stop at Tilcara to take a look at the ruins of Pucará, a pre-Incan fortress. There’s a hiking trail nearby, to Garganta del Diablo (Devil’s Throat). The 4km walk through the canyon ends at a waterfall (which you can swim at).

Do a loop around to Salinas Grandes before heading back to Purmamarca. This expansive salt flat is the largest in Argentina and it’s fun to attempt to take those forced perspective photos you see everyone doing – we tried and failed!

Where to stay in Purmamarca

• Luxury: Located at the foothills of the Cerro de los Siete Colores, El Manantial del Silencio is designed like an old estancia . Rooms are decked out with wrought-iron beds and terracotta tiled-floors. Check the latest rates on Booking.com
• Mid-range: The views of the surrounding mountains are the drawcard of Huaira Huasi , a collection of terracotta-coloured adobe buildings. Book your room online at Booking.com
• Budget: The rooms at La Valentina are small, but you won’t spend much time in there when you can be outside admiring the views of the Cierro de los Siete Colores from the patio. Check prices on Booking.com

What to do in Cafayate

After spending time in Purmamarca, prepare for an unforgettable journey southwards to Cafayate, a tranquil town renowned for its high-altitude vineyards and awe-inspiring landscapes. You’ll pass by Salta as you head south, but you can skirt around the city.

With two days here, you can spend your days exploring the local wineries in Cafayate . Cafayate is Argentina’s second centre for wine production and a bit of a hidden gem, I think. It’s famous for the Torrontés grape and it quickly became my favourite wine to drink in Argentina. El Esteco or Piatelli are great wineries to begin with.

Cafayate itself has a laid-back vibe, with its quaint streets lined with colonial-era buildings. Its main square is a hive of activity where locals set up stalls selling handmade crafts and freshly baked empanadas, and restaurants set up tables outdoors on warm evenings.

Don’t miss the chance to explore the Quebrada de las Conchas, a valley with stunning rock formations, on your way back to Salta. Make sure to pull over at the ‘Amphitheatre’, a natural formation boasting perfect acoustics and the ‘Devil’s Throat’, a sheer cliff face that captivates with its dramatic appeal.

Where to stay in Cafayate

• Luxury: Just a few minutes outside the wine town of Cafayate, the rooms at Grace Cafayate have huge bathtubs and great views over the vineyards. Compare rates at Booking.com
• Moderate: Hotel Asturias is a country-style hotel with cute little balconies. Rooms are comfortable and it’s right in the heart of Cafayate. Book a room on Booking.com
• Budget: Book a room at Rusty-K Hostal and enjoy the large outdoor area that’s beautiful on a sunny day. Check the latest rates on Booking.com

What to do in Iguazu Falls

On your first full day here, head to the Argentina side of Iguazu Falls . Start early on the Paseo Inferior (the lower circuit) so you can avoid the crowds. Then head to the Paseo Superior (upper circuit). Both these circuits give you very different perspectives of the waterfalls, so make sure you do both.

You can’t miss taking the boat right under the waterfalls – prepare to get very wet! It’s a lot of fun.

End the day at Garganta del Diablo (Devil’s Throat), which I think is the biggest and most spectacular sight of the waterfalls.

The next day, head across the border to Brazil. Remember to check if you need a visa!

Your hotel can recommend a driver or this private tour can organise transport for you .

Once at the Brazilian side of Iguazu Falls, use the shuttle bus to get around. Follow the 1.5-kilometre Path of the Falls for scenic views of the falls. The path crosses almost under the falls – prepare to get wet in some parts. Pack a rain jacket! If you forget one, you can purchase ponchos (although some people are kind enough to hand theirs over once they’ve finished with them).

If you want to see the falls from above, book a helicopter ride .

Once you’re done gawking at the falls, head back to Argentina and to your hotel.

Where to stay in Puerto Iguazu

Luxury: If you’ve got cash to burn and like understated luxury, then book a villa at Awasi Iguazú . Villas are located deep in the rainforest and have private decks and plunge pools.

Mid-range: (⭐ 9.0) If you want to be located only a stone’s throw from the falls, then choose Gran Melia Iguazú . This is where my husband and I stayed when we visited Iguazú Falls.

Budget: (⭐ 8.2) Simple but clean, Iguazu Falls Hostel gets great reviews from guests, and has a swimming pool.

What to do in Peninsula Valdes

Peninsula Valdes – or the Reserva Faunistica Peninsula Valdes more specifically – is the prime wildlife-watching destination in Argentina. From June to November, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is popular for whale-watching, while at other times of the year, you can see sea lions, elephant seals, dolphins and penguins.

On your first day in Puerto Madryn, get acquainted with the city’s marine life at the EcoCentro, a centre dedicated to Patagonian sea life. Afterwards, head to El Doradillo Beach, where you can, if you’re lucky (and it’s the right season), spot southern right whales just metres away from the shore. To round off the day, enjoy the sunset at Punta Cuevas, a small peninsula offering panoramic views over the city and the ocean.

On the second day, head out for a whale-watching trip. From June to November, you can spot southern right whales, while February to April brings orcas. Make sure you pick the right tour – it’s illegal for operators to go within 100 metres of a whale or to chase them. This tour gets good reviews .

If it’s not the right season when you visit, take a wildlife tour to see penguins and other marine animals.

On your final day, take a trip to Punta Tombo, home to the continent’s largest Magellanic penguin colony. It’s a 3-hour drive south of Puerto Madryn. On your way back to Puerto Madryn, stop in Gaiman for afternoon tea. This town was settled by Welsh immigrants and is known for its traditional Welsh tea houses.

Where to stay

To visit Peninsula Valdes, you can base yourself in Puerto Madryn or Puerto Piramides.

In Puerto Madryn, Hosteria Las Piedras is family run and in a great location. Check rates and availability online .

The Oceano Patagonia luxury condos are a great option in Puerto Piramides. Book online here .

What to do in El Calafate

The highlight of visiting El Calafate is the chance to walk on a glacier.

Start your adventure in El Calafate by venturing out to the iconic Perito Moreno Glacier, one of the few advancing glaciers in the world. Book a Big Ice tour , which will pick you up in the morning for the drive to Los Glaciares National Park. Once there, you’ll be guided around the viewing platforms for your first sight of the glacier calving – it’s an unforgettable sight and sound.

Then, strap on your crampons for the hike on the glacier. Lunch is by one of the crystal-clear pools of water that have gathered on the glacier’s surface. The day ends with a boat tour before you head back to El Calafate.

Back in town, visit the Glaciarium, an interactive museum that offers deeper insight into the region’s glacial history. You can also wander alongside Lake Argentino and spot pink flamingos from the shore.

Where to stay in El Calafate

Mid-range: (⭐ 8.9) I recommend booking the stunning Hostería La Estepa , which has sweeping views over Lago Argentina. We stayed here on our trip and it was wonderful.

Budget: (⭐ 9.0) America del Sur Hostel is ideally located near downtown. The timber cabin-style hostel also has beautiful views.

What to do in El Chaltén

Once you’ve arrived in El Chaltén, hit the hiking trails. Argentina’s trekking capital is a gorgeous little town with plenty to fill a few days.

The most popular hiking trails lead to Mount Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre, both of which have breathtaking views at the end. You can read my full guide to hikes in El Chaltén for more details, along with additional trail options.

If hiking isn’t your thing, you can also opt for horseback riding .

Make sure you wrap up a hard day of hiking with a visit to a local microbrewery and a meal at one of the restaurants to sample the region’s mouthwatering Patagonian lamb.

Where to stay in El Chaltén

Mid-range: (⭐ 9.0) To beat the morning hiking crowds, book a room at Destino Sur Hotel de Montaña & Spa , which is located close to the trails.

Mid-range: (⭐ 9.0) The spacious, padded dome tents at Patagonia Eco Domes have amazing views of the surrounding mountains. There’s no mobile phone coverage or internet, and each dome is powered by solar energy.

Budget: (⭐ 8.3) You’ll find competitive rates at Condor de los Andes . There’s a mix of shared dorms and private rooms, and breakfast is included in the rates.

What to do in Ushuaia

As you fly into “the end of the world”, admire the stunning views of Tierra del Fuego National Park before you decide what to do in Ushuaia .

Start your first day with a visit to the Maritime and Prison Museum, where Ushuaia’s history as a former prison colony is explored. Then, journey to the end of the world on the Southern Fuegian Railway, also known as the “Train of the End of the World”.

In the afternoon, take a relaxing and informative boat tour along the Beagle Channel . You’ll get the chance to see colonies of sea lions and diverse bird species.

End the day with a delectable king crab dinner at one of the local eateries – it’s the region’s most famous dish.

On your second day, head into Tierra del Fuego National Park. Trek along well-marked trails, soaking in the views of the snow-capped mountains, dense forests and pristine lakes and bays. There are plenty of adventurous day tours to book:

• This 4WD tour that visits areas of Tierra del Fuego inaccessible to bigger vehicles. Book online now .
• This 4×4 tour for a glimpse of the region’s natural beauty. Includes lunch and wine. Book online here .
• This small-group hiking trip to remote parts of the national park. Book the tour online here .

Where to stay in Ushuaia

Arakur Ushuaia Resort & Spa is a luxury hotel with breathtaking views of the Beagle Channel and Ushuaia Bay. Nothing could beat a sunset dip in the outdoor hot tubs.

Wrap up: Argentina itinerary ideas

Argentina is an enormous country and I know that planning a trip here can be overwhelming. With this guide to itinerary inspiration for 1, 2, 3 and 4 weeks in the country, you should now be ready to plan the ultimate adventure to this must-visit South American country! 

Argentina itinerary ideas: FAQs

Do i need a visa to travel to argentina.

Visa requirements for Argentina vary depending on your nationality. For many countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia and many EU nations, tourists don’t require a visa for stays up to 90 days. However, always check current visa regulations with the Argentine embassy in your home country before making travel plans. iVisa can also provide advice.

Is it safe to travel around Argentina?

Argentina is safe for tourists to visit . As with any travel destination, exercise common sense and stay vigilant, especially in major cities. Always check travel advisories from your country’s foreign ministry so you have the latest info.

What’s the typical daily cost for a traveller in Argentina?

The daily cost varies depending on your travel style. Budget travellers can expect to spend around $50 per day on accommodation, meals and public transportation. If you prefer more comfort or luxury, the daily cost can rise significantly.

Can I travel with children in Argentina?

Absolutely! Argentina is a family-friendly destination with plenty of things for children to do. From exploring national parks to learning about the local culture and history, there are plenty of activities to keep children of all ages engaged and entertained.

Is English widely spoken in Argentina?

While Spanish is the official language of Argentina, English is taught in many schools and is spoken by locals, especially in tourist areas and among the younger generation. However, learning a few basic Spanish phrases is a great idea for interacting with locals.

Do I need to rent a car in Argentina?

Renting a car in Argentina isn’t a necessity, but it can mean a more flexible trip, depending on which areas of the country you’re visiting. Public transportation is extensive and reaches most tourist destinations, but remote areas are best accessed by car. If you decide to rent a car, familiarise yourself with the local road rules. Rent through DiscoverCars .

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

What do you need help with when planning your own itinerary for Argentina?

Related posts

Before you go… you might like these Argentina travel blogs:

• 50 Incredible Things To Do in Argentina
• What to Do in Buenos Aires: 101+ Ideas for Your Itinerary
• Plan a Trip to Argentina: 19 Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors
• Navigating Money in Argentina: A Traveller’s Guide to Money Matters
• Travel Insurance for Argentina: What You Need to Know

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.

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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.

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A Guide to Ziplining in Mendoza, Argentina

Embark on an unforgettable adventure ziplining in Mendoza! Feel the thrill as you zip through stunning landscapes and embrace the adrenaline.

Restaurant review: bodega lagarde, mendoza.

Are you looking for one of the best restaurants in Mendoza, Argentina? Then look no further than Bodega Lagarde – the perfect balance of food, flavour and spectacular views.

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Are you manifesting a trip to Argentina? Then your vision board should include photos of traditional gauchos on horseback, world-class steakhouses, vineyards set against soaring mountain ranges, and of course, a cosmopolitan Buenos Aires. It’s known as the Paris of South America because of its beautiful architecture, sprawling green spaces and a serious commitment to café culture. Neighborhoods like Palermo, Recoleta, San Telmo, Puerto Madero and La Boca offer vibrant slices of culture, restaurants, shopping and nightlife. A food and wine lover’s dream, Argentina is a true foodie destination featuring internationally recognized and award-winning chefs, cuisines, and carefully curated wine collections showcasing the country’s own prized labels. Mendoza lies at the foot of the Andes Mountains and is home to Argentina’s revered Malbec wines. Bariloche is also along the Andes, but this lakeside haven serves as a great base to explore the Patagonia region. Adventure travelers and outdoor enthusiasts flock to this mostly uninhabited region each year to explore the massive glaciers, see wildlife like elephant seals, whales and penguin colonies in Tierra Del Fuego, and to kayak and hike through an abundance of flora and fauna. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, Ushuaia is at the southernmost tip of the country and is where you can board your cruise to Antarctica.

Mendoza Travel Guide

Last Updated: May 4, 2023

Situated on the eastern side of the Andes and settled in the crest of hilly terrain, Mendoza is famous for its world-class wine, mouth-watering steak, and beautiful landscapes. It’s Argentina’s version of Napa Valley .

While the city isn’t going to win any beauty awards, you don’t visit Mendoza for the city – you come for the amazing food and wineries that dot the region.

I spent over a week traveling Mendoza, biking around wineries, hiking mountains, visiting canyons, and gorging on steak and wine. It was everything I thought it would be and more!

The city makes for a good base for lots of activities. Both foodies and outdoor enthusiasts won’t want to miss Mendoza. From hiking to rafting to paragliding, there is a ton to do here. And if you love wine, come to this region and drink its famous Malbecs. You won’t be disappointed.

This Mendoza travel guide can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time in this gorgeous region of the country!

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 Mendoza

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in mendoza.

1. Hike Aconcagua

Located on the route to Puente del Inca and Uspallata, Aconcagua stands over 6,900 meters and is the highest summit in North America. It’s perfect to climb from November to March and the mountain is also surrounded by over 185,000 acres of gorgeous national parks you can explore.

2. Enjoy outdoor adventures

Beyond hiking, there are boundless opportunities for outdoor fun amongst the glorious backdrop of Mendoza’s countryside. Paragliding, climbing, mountain biking, camping, rafting, and long-distance trekking are all popular activities in the region. Tandem paragliding starts at 18,500 ARS.

3. Visit Puente del Inca

Puente del Inca is a natural stone bridge that owes its coppery-gold color to minerals in the Las Cuevas River’s water. Puente del Inca is also the name of the hot springs nearby, and a great place to go hiking. It’s just under 200 kilometers drive from Mendoza and great for a day-trip or overnight visit.

4. Take a wine tour

Home to more than a thousand wineries, most vineyard day-tours cost around 8,300-12,500 ARS while the half-day tours are around 4,200 ARS. I would recommend taking a bike tour as it’s a more scenic way to see the wineries (avoid the YTA tour). You can also take the city tram to Bodega Lopez, which offers free tours.

5. Go biking

Taking a bike trip around the region is an awesome way to see the area. Most days are warm and sunny, perfect for slow rides around the mountains or hilly tours through the vineyards. Consider a tour company to show you around or just grab a rental and get on your way!

Other Things to See and Do in Mendoza

1. relax in parque san martin.

After exploring the area, have a relaxing day on the Parque San Martin grounds. This park has become a must-see attraction for visitors and locals alike. Thanks to its French-Argentine landscape architect, Carlos Thays, the 20th-century park is a mix of French and English landscape styles. Its picturesque 971 acres contain forested sections, botanical gardens, a zoo, the city’s natural history museum, an amphitheater, a large lake, and restaurants, as well as 34 sculptures and the El Rosedal Rose Garden. You can easily spend a full day here.

2. Celebrate at the Grape Harvest Festival

Fiesta de la Vendimia is Mendoza’s largest festival — and one of the biggest in the entire country. It begins in January, though the crux of the festival occurs on the first Saturday of March and continues all weekend. Held in celebration of the winemaking industry, events include the blessing of the fruit, parades, free wine samples, and folklore performances. The event culminates in a performance by hundreds of dancers, a large firework display, and the crowning of the Reina Nacional de la Vendimia (the National Harvest Queen). With origins in the 17th century (though the first official modern festival was in 1936), the final weekend attracts over 40,000 visitors from across the country and beyond.

3. Admire Plaza España

Plaza España, known for its beautiful colored Spanish tiles, is a restful, serene place to visit. Designed like a typical Spanish plaza with a large central fountain and statues, this is your tranquil getaway from the city. The exquisite ceramic tilework and murals depict Mendoza’s 16th-century origin story and scenes from famous Spanish and Argentine literary works. On the weekends, there is a charming artisan’s fair here with locals selling their handicrafts.

4. Wander the historic center

If you are looking for a diversion from all that outdoor activity and wine drinking, the historic center provides plenty of sights, parks, and museums. Meander around the traditional central market, with its produce and hot food stalls, or peruse the traditional handicraft markets that pop up at Plaza de la Independencia and Avenida San Martin, the main thoroughfare. For an urban winery, head to Bodega Los Toneles, just minutes away from the historic center.

5. Visit Uspallata

To soak up even more of your breathtaking surroundings, head to Uspallata, a village situated in the Andes region heading towards Santiago in Chile . While this is a place to relax and unwind, it is also of historical and cultural significance. This is the site where, in 1817, José de San Martín (the Liberator of Argentina, Chile and Peru) sent his army to fight the Spanish in Chile. At 100 kilometers (62 miles) from Mendoza, the journey takes 1.5 hours by car or taxi and 2.5 hours by bus.

6. Go back in time at Museo Fundacional

This is the perfect museum for buffing up on the history of Mendoza and Argentina. Trace the city’s timeline through the descriptive exhibits (though keep in mind that they’re only in Spanish). The main highlight is checking out the subterranean original city remnants, which are all that remain of the destructive earthquake of 1861 (the earthquake killed 4,300 of Mendoza’s 12,000 residents and destroyed almost every building).

7. Stroll Peatonal Sarmiento

Known commonly as “the pedestrian zone,” this tree-lined street offers an escape from the congestion of the city. Open only to those traveling on foot, this is a great place to do some shopping, check out street performers and eclectic street vendors, or just grab a coffee and lounge at one of the outdoor terraces. The street leads right into Plaza de la Independencia, the largest plaza in the city, and another popular place to just hang out and people-watch.

8. Go river rafting

For some of the best rafting in Argentina , head down the Mendoza River. Typically beginning at Potrerillos, this is usually an all-day activity that takes you over some 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) of rapids, and usually includes lunch. A full-day rafting trip costs 12,000-17,500 ARS, including lunch, while a half-day is 4,500 ARS.

9. Soak in Villavicencio

Surrounded by beautiful parks, gardens, and various walking trails, this resort town became popular for its healing hot springs in the 1940s. Beyond the mineral-rich waters lies a protected natural reserve of over 180,000 acres. Enjoy the beautiful scenery, Darwin’s Petrified Forest (Darwin stayed here during his world tour and discovered this petrified forest), Los Caracoles viewpoint, and the ancient Inca rock paintings. At 60 kilometers (37 miles) away from Mendoza, it’s common (and easiest) to visit via guided tour. Tours start at 3,400 ARS per person for a half-day tour and 16,000 ARS for a full-day tour that includes lunch at a winery.

10. Try paragliding

If you’d like to exercise your adrenaline muscles, Mendoza is a great place to try paragliding. There are many travel companies that offer paragliding tours from the base of the Andes Mountains over the wineries. The entire experience takes around a half-day, with an in-air time of about 25-40 minutes depending on wind conditions. Expect to pay about 18,500 ARS per person for a tandem flight with an experienced professional.

11. Day trip to San Rafael and Canon del Atuel

Just over three hours by bus from the city of Mendoza, San Rafael is a central hub for just about any outdoor activity you can think of. From hiking to kayaking to paragliding, there are countless exciting things to do, all with a stunning backdrop. My biggest recommendation is to head to Canon del Atuel, just outside of San Rafael. This breathtaking canyon boasts unique plant life, lakes, rivers, and natural sculptures, along with panoramic views. Simply take the public bus to Valle Grande, as the route takes you through the sights. Even better is packing a lunch and having a picnic (also be sure to bring lots of water). The bus from Mendoza to San Rafael costs 540 ARS for a one-way ticket.

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

• Buenos Aires Travel Guide

Mendoza Travel Costs

Hostel prices – During peak season, a bed in a 4-6-bed dorm costs around 2,200-3,500 ARS per night, while beds in an 8-10-bed dorm cost 1,800 ARS per night. Private rooms cost 4,500-5,700 ARS per night.

During off-peak season, you can find 4-6-bed dorms for 1,500 ARS per night and private rooms for 4,100 ARS per night. Keep in mind that some hostels close in the off-season.

Free Wi-Fi, kitchens, and a simple free breakfast are usually standard. Some hostels have outdoor bars for socializing and a couple even have outdoor pools.

For those traveling with a tent, there are many campgrounds surrounding the city of Mendoza. Expect to pay around 800 ARS per person for a basic plot. Wi-Fi is usually available and some campgrounds have pools.

Budget hotel prices – Budget hotels start at around 4,800 ARS per night for a double room with a private bathroom. After that, prices go as high as 6,700 ARS per night for nicer accommodations. Free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, and free breakfast are all standard.

Airbnb has exploded in this town, with private rooms starting at 1,800 ARS per night. You can find entire apartments starting at 3,675 ARS per night.

Food prices – Argentine food has a heavy Mediterranean influence due to its colonial and immigrant history. Empanadas, pizza, polenta, and pasta are all major components of Argentine cuisine. However, Argentines are most famous for their beloved asado (barbeque grilled or on an open fire) and consumption of beef in general, especially steak and ribs. The favorite national dessert is dulce de leche , a caramel spread made from condensed milk.

Unfortunately for the budget traveler, food in Mendoza is expensive. It’s a place meant for splashing out. Be sure to take advantage of specials and cheap eats to get the most for your money.

Breakfast deals cost 200-450 ARS and include a coffee and toast, pastry, or eggs. Lunch specials are around 600-900 ARS. For a good cafe, visit Caffe Jack near the main square. It has fast Wi-Fi, good and affordable food, and friendly staff!

Cheap meals at the local burger/sandwich shops cost around 350-500 ARS. In most of the cafes around the city, you’re looking at 450-675 ARS per dish. Pizzas are popular in the city and cost 500-600 ARS for a personal pizza or 800-1,100 ARS for a shareable pie. Fast food (think Mcdonald’s) is around 470 ARS for a value meal.

Asian restaurants and takeaways are other great options for cheap yet filling meals. A dish at an Indian restaurant is 350-420 ARS, while a takeaway kebab is 300 ARS.

At a traditional yet casual Argentinian steakhouse, steaks cost around 950-1,350 ARS, while vegetable-based pasta dishes cost 580-700 ARS. If you are looking for a nice sit-down meal at a fancier restaurant with good steak and wine, expect to pay at least 3,200 ARS.

In terms of drinks, expect to pay 350 ARS for a beer, 200 ARS for a glass of wine, 850 ARS for a bottle of wine at a restaurant, 400 ARS for a cocktail, and 250 ARS for a cappuccino.

You can buy a week’s worth of groceries (including bottles of wine) for around 3,700 ARS. This gets you basic staples like pasta, rice, seasonal produce, and some meat or fish.

Backpacking Mendoza Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker’s budget of 6,200 ARS per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, cook most of your meals, limit your drinking, rent a bike to take public transportation to get around, and do mostly free activities like hiking.

On a mid-range budget of 12,000 ARS per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb, eat out for most meals, enjoy a few drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like wine tours and rafting trips.

On a “luxury” budget of 23,600 ARS or more per day, you stay in a hotel, eat at fancier sit-down restaurants with steak and wine, splurge on a rental car or take tours, and do whatever else you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some 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.

Mendoza Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

As one of the most visited destinations in the country, Mendoza isn’t a cheap place to visit. Mendoza should be considered one of your splurge cities. Eat the steak, drink the wine, and offset those costs by cooking your lunch. If you buy your own groceries and tour the sights and surroundings independently, you’ll save lots of money. Here’s are a few ways to save money here:

• Bike – To save on taxi and bus fares, bike around the city and to the wineries. You can rent a bike for around 500 ARS a day from companies like Mr. Hugo Bicycle Rental and Maipu Bikes.
• Buy wine at the grocery store – If you buy wine at the grocery store, you’ll get the same great local varieties for a much better price. Prices start around 350 ARS instead of 800-1,100 ARS in restaurants.
• Travel off-peak – You’ll find cheaper flights and accommodation in the off-season from April to December.
• Get the breakfast and lunch specials – Most of the restaurants and cafes (especially those downtown) offer breakfast deals for 200-400 ARS. Set lunch menus cost around 600-900 ARS (often including steak). If you want to eat at the city’s many restaurants, it’s best to do it during lunch!
• Take a free walking tour – Vivi MZA offers a 2-3-hour walking tour that can introduce you to the history and culture of the city. Just remember to tip your guide at the end!
• Stay with a local – Couchsurfing connects you with locals who can give you a free place to stay and share their insider tips and advice. It’s the best way to meet locals and save money.
• Pack a water bottle – The tap water here is 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.

Where to Stay in Mendoza

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

• Hostel International Mendoza
• Gorilla Hostel
• Lagares Hostel

How to Get Around Mendoza

Public transportation – Mendoza has a fairly reliable public transportation system. You’ll need to get a SUBE card because you can’t pay on the buses or trams. It can be purchased at kiosks around the city. Bus and trams are 20 ARS each ride.

For onward travel to Santiago, the 7-10 hour bus costs between 3,500-5,000 depending on the time and class of service. The bus to nearby San Rafael is 540 ARS.

Bicycle Rental – Renting a bicycle in Mendoza is a very common way to get around, especially for visiting the mountains and the wineries. You can rent a bike for around 500 ARS per day with companies like Maipu Bike Rentals or Mr. Hugo’s Bikes.

Taxis – For taxis, the starting fare is 23.50 ARS, going up 23 ARS per kilometer. Airport transfers are around 1,300-2,000 ARS.

When to Go to Mendoza

Mendoza has year-round sunshine, so it’s always a good time to visit. It doesn’t rain very often, and when it does, it doesn’t last for long.

Mendoza is hottest from December to March, where temperatures hover around 30°C (86°F) and go as high as 40°C (104°F). It can cool off in the evenings though, so be sure to pack something warm. January and February can sometimes be rainy as well.

Winter is from June to September, and it’s the driest and sunniest time of year but with cold nights. The average temperature during this time is 14°C (58°F).

October to April is considered the best time to visit. Spring (October-November) and fall (March-April) have average temperatures around 21°C (70°F) and the wineries are busy pouring their best stuff. It’s also the best time for any outdoor adventure activities.

How to Stay Safe in Mendoza

Mendoza is generally a safe place to backpack and travel — even if you’re traveling solo, and even as a solo female traveler. However, petty theft is very common here so you’ll need to be cautious. Don’t flaunt expensive jewelry or belongings here and always try to blend in when you can.

Cell phone theft is incredibly common in Mendoza, and thieves will sometimes literally snatch the phone right from your hand in broad daylight. For that reason, you need to always stay vigilant. Keep your phone and wallet out of reach and secure in your bag. If you need to bring your phone out, step into a store to look at it.

Lock your bags on overnight buses and make sure your valuables are secure and out of reach as theft can occur.

If you’re renting a car, never leave it unlocked and unattended. Don’t leave any valuables in it overnight either as break-ins can occur.

Crime has been slightly on the increase in Mendoza in recent years due to its growth. It’s not overly serious, but it’s a good idea to avoid Plaza de la Independencia and Parque General San Martín after dark (especially if you’re alone).

Solo female travelers will want to be vigilant here. Never accept drinks from strangers or leave your drink unattended at the bar. Whenever possible avoid walking around alone just to be safe.

To learn more about potential scams you might encounter, read about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you experience an emergency, call 911.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

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:

Mendoza 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!

Mendoza 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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Demi Moore on Full Frontal Nudity With Margaret Qualley in ‘The Substance’: ‘A Very Vulnerable Experience’ but I Had a ‘Great Partner Who I Felt Very Safe With’

Demi Moore ‘s new film, the feminist body horror “ The Substance ,” sees her bare it all, with several scenes featuring full nudity. At the Cannes Film Festival press conference for the film on Monday, the 61-year-old actor discussed the “vulnerable experience.”

“Going into it, it was really spelled out — the level of vulnerability and rawness that was really required to tell the story,” Moore said. “And it was a very vulnerable experience and just required a lot of sensitivity and a lot of conversation about what we were trying to accomplish.”

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“I had someone who was a great partner who I felt very safe with. We obviously were quite close  — naked — and we also got a lot of levity in those moments at how absurd those certain situations were,” she said. “But ultimately. it’s just about really directing your communication and mutual trust.”

As the film progresses, Moore becomes horribly disfigured thanks to the abuse her other half Qualley is inflicting on her. By the film’s last act, she quite resembles Anjelica Huston from the 1990 film “The Witches,” after she transforms into a humpback abomination.

Dennis Quaid also stars in the film as an “asshole,” as he described his character during the presser. The late Ray Liotta was meant to have the role before his passing in May 2022, and Quaid dedicated his performance to him.

“In my heart, I dedicated this role to Ray Liotta, who was set to play it,” Quaid said. “It was this week, two years ago that he passed, so I’d like to remember him. He was such an incredible actor.”

Cannes went wild for “The Substance” at its premiere on Sunday night, giving the film an 11-minute standing ovation , the longest of the fest so far.

In an interview with Variety , the French director discussed the film’s feminist themes, saying that body horror is “the perfect vehicle to express the violence all these women’s issues are about.”

With an undercurrent of #MeToo at this year’s festival as the movement grows in France, Fargeat hopes the film will shine even more light on the issue. “It’s a little stone in the huge wall we still have to build regarding this issue, and to be honest, I hope my film will also be one of the stones of that wall. That’s really what I intended to do with it.”

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