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Argentina Travel Guide

Argentina Travel Guide

Argentina is suited to the adventure traveler, the nature lover, the culturist, the wildlife fanatic, those who fantasize about the tango, and anyone who has ever said they will one day journey to the edge of the world! Therefore, by my reasoning, Argentina is suited to everyone!

As one of the biggest countries in the world, Argentina’s geography is more diverse than you could possibly imagine, offering travelers the choice between spectacular waterfalls, vast regions of desert, striking mountain ranges (The Andes) and ‘desolate glacial lakes’ as found in Patagonia.  Travelers from around the world are beginning to flock to Argentina, and it has become one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations, not only for it’s variety of stunning landscapes, but also due to it’s rare marine wildlife, elegant colonial architecture, and of course – the tango! Additionally, Argentina (Ushuaia) is one of the only countries where tours leave for Antarctica.

Taller than Niagra, and twice as wide, Igazu Falls can be found in Argentina’s northeast corner, bordering both Argentina and Brazil.  One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, Igazu Falls combines 275 waterfalls which cascade off cliff faces running 2.7 kilometers (1.67 miles) along the Iguazu River. The falls are located in the Iguazú National Park which is open between 8am and 6pm.

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Igazu Falls. Photo Source: Flickr CC User SF Brit

Think the falls are amazing?  Equally as impressive are the Andes Mountain chain, which runs the length of the country’s western border from north to south.  This is the perfect location for mountain climbers and hikers seeking challenging peaks, however there are also relatively easy treks in the northern parts of the Andes in the Altiplano for those seeking less physically challenging sightseeing! Head here (west of Cordoba) for spectacular salt flats, volcanoes, multicolored cliffs, old Indian Villages, and lakes which teem with flamingos!

Towns in the northwest which should not be missed include the small town of Purmamarca, which is home to the phenomenol Cerro de los Siete Colores (Hill of Seven Colors), and Los Cardones National Park which is located in the Calchaquíes Valleys and acts as a preserve for the giant cactus (el cardon).  The northwest is where you will find your great desert expanses with vast canyons and prehistoric fossils.  Ischigualasto National Park, also known as Valley of the Moon, is well known for it’s strange geological formations, and canyons which hold dinosaur fossils and tracks.

One of those “challenging peaks” I mentioned above would be Aconcagua.  The highest mountain in the Andes, despite the fact that winds are ridiculously strong and the light is almost blinding, it is a favorite among mountain climbers! Close-by you have the Puente del Inca which is a unique natural bridge crossing the Vacas River, and if exploring the region over a few days, San Carlos de Bariloche is a great area in the mountains to use as your base.

Heading south you’ll start to encounter more tourists – but for good reason!  Patagonia is located in the far southwest; an area which attracts tourists regardless of the cold, wind and rain due to it’s breathtaking geography and natural wildlife.   Here you will have access to Glaciers National Park, which is very close to Mount Fitz Roy which lies on the border of Chile and is one of the most technical mountain climbs in the world.

Photo Courtesy of Loco-Sup

Patagonia. Photo Courtesy of Loco-Sup

Continuing south, there’s not much further to travel until you hit Ushuaia – the southern most city in the world.  This area is home to the lakes of the National Park of Tierra Del Fuego, an area famous for great hiking and scenery, scenery which includes waterfalls, mountains, glaciers, forests and lakes.  If you’ve never seen a fox, beaver or guanacos (family of the llama), this is the place to go!  You can get to the park from Ushuaia by taking the Train at the end of the world!  Other day trips which are popular are boat excursions out to the Beagle Channel to spot aquatic birds, seals and sealions. Sometimes travelers will get lucky and also spot penguins and orca’s.

Monuments and Cities

 

Cities such as Humahuaca, San Salvador de Jujuy and Salta are reminders of the Colonial period.  With elaborate colonial architecture, these cities are very distinct and make for a unique tourist destination.  Argentina’s capital, Buenos Aires is home to a number of museums, churches and cathedrals, the Pink government house referred to as Casa Rodasa, and Recoleta cemetery where Evita Peron’s grave-site is located.

Argentina’s tourist seasons are the opposite to those in the Northern Hemisphere.  The summer months of January and February are both high tourist seasons, with prices generally increasing during these times.

If you are heading to Northwest Argentina and Buenos Aires, the best months to go are May, June and July, as well as October and November.  Not only will you be avoiding mass tourism, but also taking advantage of the warm climate during these months.

The best time to visit Tierrs Del Fuego is during January, February and March.

The best times of the year to view Igazu Falls are during February, March, April and May, as well as September and October.

Festivals: The International Folklore Festival is held in January in Cosquin.  Come August the snow festival is held in San Carlos de Bariloche.

Cities and towns throughout Argentina which are relevant to travelers include:

  • Bariloche – located in the Andes, great location for outdoor activities including skiing in winter and hiking in summer;
  • Buenos Aires – Argentina’s Capital, Buenos Aires is home of the tango (although unless you are a dance prodigy don’t expect to master the tango during your short visit!);
  • Córdoba – elaborate colonial architecture and a great cafe culture;
  • El Calafate – gateway to the Moreno Glacier;
  • La Plata – capital of the Buenos Aires province, just an hour from the capital;
  • Mar del Plata – beachside city;
  • Mendoza – great wines and views of the Andes;
  • Puerto Iguazu – near the famous Iguacu Falls;
  • Rosario – northwest of Buenos Aires;
  • Tucuman – in the northwest of the country;
  • Salta – in the northwest;
  • Ushuaia – the world’s southernmost city.  Tours to Antarctica leave from here.
  • Puerto Pirámides – a unique place for rare wildlife: whales, sea lions, orcas, dusky dolphins, penguins and many more.

Argentina is incredibly safe despite a lingering reputation to the contrary.  The poor and touristy quarters such as La Boca in Buenos Aires do require you to be aware of your surroundings, however there are generally very few problems around the rest of Argentina.  Driving in Argentina is quite reckless compared to the rest of the Western World, so traffic accidents will most likely be your main concern – be aware when using the roads as either a pedestrian or driver.

While not a huge problem, crime does happen, however it is generally non-violent, largely pick-pocketing.  General advice applies here – don’t leave bags or purses unattended, don’t carry your wallet in your back pocket, don’t wear expensive looking items which might attract the attention of a thief.

A Tourist Police Unit operates throughout the country and can be contacted on a toll-free number: 0800-999-5000.

Pros: Argentina is home to some of the worlds most natural wonders, and boasts an incredible cultural heritage.

Cons: Reversed seasons to the Northern Hemisphere (winter is in July and August).

Travel Documents: All travelers to Argentina require a Passport to enter the country, however requirements for a tourist visa have been continually changing over the last few years.  At present, citizens of the United States, Europe, the United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand do not require visas to enter, however you can check visa requirements by country by visiting the Argentinian Department of Immigration Website.

Health Issues: Vaccinations aren’t necessary when traveling to Argentina, however it is recommended to take anti mosquito precautions and malaria preventatives when traveling in areas near the borders of Bolivia and Paraguay.  Argentina has a phenomenal public health system which provides free services for emergencies and non-emergencies, regardless of your nationality or immigration status.

Language and Currency: The official language spoken is Spanish, which is called Castellano by Argentines.  Guarani and various Indian dialects are also common.  The Argentine Peso is traded as currency.  As of July 2013 $1 US buys 5.46 Argentine Pesos.

Population: 40,303,000.  Around 86% have European ancestry, mainly Spanish and Italian.  The capital city of Buenos Aires has a population of 12 million. 90% of Argentinians are Catholics.

  
Budget around $2,200 US or £ 1,800 for a two week stay. 

Great resources I used for information on Argentina included Travellers Point and Rudy Maxa’s ‘100 countries, 5000 ideas“.

 Have you been to Argentina?  Do you have anything to add?

    36 Comments

  1. I would love to visit Argentina! The culture and nature both sound amazing–there definitely wouldn’t be a shortage of things to do!

    • We have a trip planned next year and absolutely can’t wait…I have to learn how to tango though so we can hit some dance clubs :D

  2. Ooh, we’ve got Argentine on our list, too! There’s so many beautiful places there. I’ll have to get tips from you before we go since it will be after you.

    • Done deal!

  3. That’s so strange to think that the seasons are reversed! I better remember that, LOL

    • Lol same in Australia; have used it to my advantage with travel before to have year long summers :D

  4. I was looking at your map and thought you are a bit light on South America!! Great to see you are getting to Argentina this year. We are going to Argentina in April to start a full South America circuit!

    • Bit light on both South America and Asia – hoping to rectify the situation!! We’re hitting up Panama, Peru, Brazil, Ecuador and Argentina come May – seriously can’t wait! Maybe we’ll bump into each other along the way! Travel safe.

  5. Argentina is definitely on my bucket list, which seems to grow every day! After my stint in Southeast Asia I definitely want to make my way slowly through South America! Thanks for the inspiration. :)

    • I’m glad Marie! You’ll have such a fabulous time in South America – definitely plan for some additional time to explore more than just Argentina if you’re in the area. The whole continent is amazing, though you really could spend a year in Argentina and still not have your fill!

      Happy travels X

  6. I hope you can enjoy your visit to this amazing place. We indeed have a wonderful country. I have yet many places to visit even living here. I planned to travel north this summer to visit Iguazu Falls. Later I planned to see Salta which I heard a lot about. I have already visit beaches (Mar del Plata, Monte Hermoso, Necochea, Miramar) and mountains (my favorite place to stay) near Bariloche, El Bolson, San Martin de los Andes and recently Mendoza and San Rafael (Atuel’s Cannon). I heard also wonderful stories about Puerto Madryn where you can navigate really close to whales.
    I live in Bahia Blanca, Buenos Aires.

    • Thankyou Walter – and I’m so glad to hear that you’re spending time discovering your home country. So many people jump to explore the rest of the world before first discovering the beautiful wonders that exist at home; I’m guilty of this too! I hope to explore more of my home country Australia this year. You come from a beautiful place in Argentina!

      Happy travels :)

  7. I absolutely agree with you, Meg: Argentina is for the the nature lovers and for those who love tango. I visited Argentina many years ago and still can’t get over it. If there is a place where I could return on and on that is Buenos Aires. Absolutely charming! To say nothing of the stunning Iguazu. I had the same thought like Eleanor Roosevelt when she saw that Iguazu Falls: “poor Niagara!”

    • Don’t think I’ve met a single person who returned from Argentina without having fallen in love :D Really is such a fabulous and unique destination – so glad you enjoyed your time there Anda. I hope you have the chance to revisit again soon!

  8. Towns in the northwest in túi giấy which should not be missed include the small town of Purmamarca, which is home to the phenomenol Cerro de los Siete Colores (Hill of Seven Colors), and Los Card

    • Thanks for the tips Mary! Will have to spend more time next time we’re in South America :)

    • The parrilla, or grill, is everywhere in Argentina. It’s the quintessential way of cooking, in our homes, restaurants, and even street food stalls. Meat is grilled slowly over embers (not a fire), a throwback to the days of the gaucho, the South American outdoor cattle wrangler. Meat is so good here that only salt is added for seasoning, and once crisp, it is terribly delicious!

    • I LOVED grilled BBQ while we were in Argentina – the meat is so juicy and delicious, I think I ate so much I had the meat sweats after lol!

  9. Amazing country to visit. I’ve been there, worth every penny!

    • So glad you enjoyed your time too Sara! Happy travels!

  10. Really happy to stumble on this post now whilst travelling in Argentina. Agree with all of these but also Esteros Del Ibera wetlands in Corrientes – absolutely stunning and recommend a visit to everyone heading up to Iguazu.

    • Thanks for the tip on Esteros Del Ibera wetlands in Corrientes Stefan! We haven’t yet made it to that part of the country, but will have to plan another trip soon! Glad to hear you’re enjoying your time in Argentina. One of my favorite countries :) Totally agree with you about heading up to Iguazu.

  11. WOW! It seems amazing places over here in Argentina! I wish i would visit this country. Really, i love beautiful places which have great scenery! I heard little bit about Argentina from one of my friend. He had good memory on what he visited on different places in Argentina. Actually, my curiosity has grown after listening from him :-P

    • Definitely some incredible places – Argentina is easily one of the most beautiful countries in the world! Some stunning nature if you’re a fan of scenery. Glad to hear your friend has been inspiring you to plan a visit – hope you have the chance to travel soon!

  12. The country is a place of beautiful places. I think Patagonia is a sensational tourist destination. The landscape is also a highlight that I consider beautiful.

    • Absolutely Bruno! I agree with you on Patagonia – easily one of the most scenic and naturally beautiful parts of the world. Happy travels!

  13. Whenever I talk to my friends about traveling abroad, I recommend the argentina! It is an excellent cost-benefit, with beautiful and very close places to meet.

    The buenos aires bus is a great way to see the main sights!

    • So glad to hear you had a fabulous time in Argentina too Luiz! It’s definitely one of those countries that steals your heart, we’ve been raving about it to friends too :)

  14. Great! Your article has made my legs want to come here, I will arrange time to visit argentina and probably more.
    Thank you for the interesting and meaningful sharing with me.

    • Glad we could inspire you to visit Argentina! Have an amazing trip :)

  15. Your share has touched my heart! Thank you for sharing us the wonderful information and images of the people and nature here.
    Perhaps Argentina is the destination that I definitely can’t ignore in the upcoming trips.
    Thank you again!

    • Glad we could inspire you to visit Argentina! It truly is a fantastic destination, so I can highly recommend a trip at some stage :) Happy travels!

  16. Great, beautiful places! Thank you so much Meg Jerrard about information.

    • You’re welcome Leo, hope you have the chance to visit Argentina soon!

  17. Is the landscape in Argentina really as subtle and beautiful as your picture? I love the people here starting from the balls, so I will visit this country and come to this place if it’s really beautiful. And I will not forget to visit and ask you to take us to visit here! Are you willing
    Thank you for sharing, waiting for your feedback!

    • It is indeed – one of those countries where the photos truly don’t do it justice!

      Glad we could inspire you to visit Argentina – we don’t personally run tours, so we can’t take people there, but hopefully we’ve provided enough information for you to be able to put together your own trip :)

      Thanks for reading!

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