Argentina Travel Guide
- Everything you need to know for your trip to Argentina-
Argentina, officially the Argentine Republic, is a diverse country located in South America. Argentina is the third populous country in South America and the largest Spanish-speaking one in the world. Visiting this beautiful South-American spot is recommended for tourists and visitors who want to enjoy a new experience!
Why Visiting Argentina?
There are many reasons for visiting Argentina, from beautiful geography to interesting culture, rich history, amazing nightlife, and mouth-watering cuisine. Let’s talk more about the main reasons for visiting this South American country.
When it comes to nature, Argentina is a real highlight. For instance, beautiful Iguazú Falls are some of the most fantastic falls in the world, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in1984. You can enjoy tours, treks, and watersports in this breathtaking landscape. Another remarkable natural wonder in Argentina is Los Glaciares National Park, one of the UNESCO World Heritage Foundation sites. The glacial activities will be absolutely amazing for you here. The natural attractions in Argentina are countless, so you should just visit the country to enjoy them!
Argentinean cuisine and drinks are remarkable. When it comes to cuisine, you should expect mouth-watering foods such as different types of steaks. As for drinks, Argentina is the sixth-largest wine producer in the world. Cabernet Sauvignon and Mendoza Malbec are two of the most famous wines in Argentina, which should not be missed by any visitor.
Nightlife and festivals in Argentina are exceptional. Among the festivals, the Buenos Aires International Festival of Independent Film (BAFICI), Buenos Aires Fashion Week (BAFWEEK), La Rural, etc., are highlighted. Besides, Semana de Jujuy and Oktoberfest are among the festivals celebrating music and art in Argentina.
Argentina Top Destinations
Best Time to Visit Argentina
Spring (September – November)
Temperature: 8 °C (46.4 °F) – 24 °C (75.2 °F)
Features
As Argentina is located in the southern hemisphere, the spring is between September and November. It’s the best time for visiting Iguazu Falls since it’s stunning in spring. Some festivals, such as International Guitar Festival, are held during spring. Generally, the season is great for visiting the country.
Summer (December – February)
Temperature: 16 °C (60.8 °F) – 29 °C (84.2 °F)
Features
Summer in Argentina starts in December and ends in February. Summer in this South American country is hot but at the same time the best for relaxing on the Atlantic Ocean beaches. During summer, the International Day of Tango on December 11, the hot Argentine Christmas, and New Year are the highlighted events.
Autumn (March – May)
Temperature: 8 °C (46.4 °F) – 26 °C (78.8 °F)
Features
Autumn is the best time for visiting Argentina. However, you should expect frequent rains, so it’s better to bring the clothes you usually wear in autumn.
Winter (June – August)
Temperature: 5 °C (41 °F) – 16 °C (60.8 °F)
Features
Winter is the best time for winter sports lovers since ski resorts are open to locals and tourists. In the highlands, the temperature stays around 0 °C (32 °F) and below. However, in other areas, the weather is milder in winter.
Best Argentina Tours
Things to Do in Argentina
Argentina is a large and diverse country in Latin America with rich nature, wildlife, and culture. There are also elements that remain from indigenous people and the Spanish colonies in the middle of modern-day Argentina. Having lots of things to see and activities to indulge yourself in, this South American country is the best to visit and enjoy to the fullest. Most of the fun in this country is found in nature and right next to its amazing wildlife.
Treat Your Eyes with the Beauty of the Iguazu Falls
If you want to start your traveling experience in Argentina with a wonderful natural phenomenon, start at the Iguazu Falls. Visiting the Iguazu Falls is possible at any time during your trip, but prioritizing it can be a very delightful beginning in a beautiful country. The series of waterfalls are at the border of Brazil and Argentina, making it one of the most beautiful borders that two countries can share. Join the other adventurers and enjoy the views, or find a cruise or boat to explore the waters.
As you walk on the trails and walkways, keep in mind that the environment around the Iguazu Falls is also magnificent. Hundreds of falls and green trees is a place to visit for all groups and ages. Make sure to put this visit on the top of your things to do while in this country.
Make the Most of Buenos Aires
Some people say that leaving Buenos Aires without learning the Tango dance is a crime. Others say not going to Recoleta is a mistake. There are also words about the nightlife of Buenos Aires which should be experienced. All of these are true, and the reason is that Buenos Aires is such a wonderful and colorful city that leaving it unexplored would be a huge mistake. Every fun activity you can think of can be found somewhere in Buenos Aires, no matter what your interests are. The nightlife, art, food (especially steak), dancing, and even their cemetery is worth discovering.
If you are on tour, make sure to choose the longest tour of Buenos Aires. If traveling on your own is the plan, be sure to dedicate as much time to this city as possible. It is one of the best cities to see some pretty architecture, good people, have fun, and learn about their culture.
Witness the beauties of Perito Moreno Glacier
Going to the Los Glaciares National Park to see the Perito Moreno Glacier is a great idea and popular activity for both locals and tourists. It is first a marvelous sight of a 30-kilometer glacier that is over 60-meters high. Second, since it is one of the few glaciers that keeps growing (about 2 meters per day), there is a chance that you hear it crack. If lucky, you will actually be there when the Perito Moreno Glacier cracks and some huge pieces of ice fall from it.
There are more things in the National Park other than the Perito Moreno Glacier, but walking around a glacier is not something you can do every day. Be sure to visit the Perito Moreno Glacier and witness the beauties of the third-largest reserve of fresh water in our world.
Visit the End of the World and its Lonely Lighthouse at Ushuaia
If flat earthers were right, you would probably fall off the planet after passing Ushuaia and its “End of the World” lighthouse. Ushuaia was initially popular because of the End of the World Lighthouse, but then the name stuck to the whole city since it is where most travelers visit before going to Antarctica. However, visiting the End of the World Lighthouse and its museum is a great activity in Argentina’s most southern regions. It is a sight to see because of the glaciers, the beautiful wildlife, the famous Beagle Channel, and whales!
This wondrous place is like a city out of a book with so many great things to see. Stay safe while traveling to Ushuaia or the End of the World, and perhaps even hire a boat to explore the waters.
Explore all of Bariloche and Have an Adventure
San Carlos de Bariloche, also known as Bariloche, is a paradise for adventuring a magical landscape. The city sits in a National Park that is filled with beauties of the environment. Some activities you have to try in Argentina is hiking the trails, mountains, inactive volcanoes, and numerous other places all over Bariloche. There are several highlights in the area which are perfect starting points in Bariloche, namely the Seven Lakes route, Myrtle Forest, and the Cerro Catedral.
It is a unique kind of beauty to witness and a cultural trip along with its adventure nature. After long trips and adventures, be sure to try some of the unique brews and other treats while in Bariloche.
Have Fun All Year Long in the City of Mendoza
The number one city of Argentina is always Buenos Aires, but Mendoza is also always mentioned as another great city of the country. In terms of Beauty, Mendoza is one that has both architectural beauties and environmental ones. Artists, fans of culture, wine lovers, architecture enthusiasts, and food lovers, and every other kind of traveler should go to Mendoza. A great thing about spending time in this city is that it is enjoyable all year long.
There are always stories to hear and things to learn about this part of the country. As for the things you can do in this region of Argentina, just take your pick and have no worries, Mendoza probably has it!
Learn About the History and Culture at Córdoba
Córdoba is famous as the cultural center of Argentina and a city filled with 16th-century colonial buildings. The vibrant culture and lovely buildings are just half the story since this city also has beautiful surroundings. It is possible to enjoy the mountains around Córdoba, but the city’s highlights are trying their drink called Fernet and exploring its colonial buildings. During the explorations of Córdoba, all travelers must visit the famous Cathedral of Córdoba. Feel its spiritual sense and enjoy the essence and peace of Córdoba.
See the Marine Life and Do Some Watersports at Valdés Peninsula
Valdés Peninsula attracts numerous travelers each year because of the abundance of its wildlife and watersports. All the areas along the coastline are places to visit and enjoy, especially the reserve on the Valdés Peninsula, which is also a top UNESCO World Heritage Site of Argentina. If it is your first time, you have to make reservations, get a guide, and book a cruise on the waters. Pick the right season for going to Valdés Peninsula, and there are all kinds of rare sea creatures that are seen in these waters. If you have the time and love animals too much, seek the penguins and whales to have the most unforgettable traveling experience of your life.
Find the Best Views and Scenes at Tierra del Fuego National Park
Tierra del Fuego National Park is a 156000-acre national park that is ideal for everyone to experience hiking and adventuring. It is suitable for all travelers with any level of skill and experience, with some majestic views. Besides the scenery, which is unmatched, there is also the wildlife of this massive area that makes it enjoyable. There are many trails and routes, and the Southern Fuegian Railway makes the visit to Tierra del Fuego National Park something anyone should do in Argentina.
Try Hiking and Trekking in The Andes
The Andes stretches along the western side of Argentina, and it is dubbed the “Roof of the Americas. It has diverse climates as well as numerous peaks, most of which are accessible by the ordinary traveler. It is rather popular because of the ease of traveling in The Andes, but an additional attraction of these mountains is the views it offers over some of the highlights of Argentina. Make sure to go hiking and trekking in The Andes. Just pick your trail, check your gear, and make an unforgettable memory.
What to see in Argentina
Local Transportation in Argentina
Bus
Urban bus in Argentina is called colectivos, operating in different cities of the country. Also, there is another service, Diferenciales, which is air-conditioned and fast, but more expensive.
Metro
The only city in Argentina with a metro network system is Buenos Aires, offering six lines and covering major spots of the city. The paper ticket will not be acceptable, and you need to have Subte smart card.
Tram
Trams are coming back to Argentina, and you can find them in Buenos Aires. Besides, Mendoza also has its own tram system called Metrotranvía Mendoza with 16 stations.
Taxi
Taxis in Argentina accept cash only! Therefore, there is an app called BA Taxi, allowing you to request a taxi and pay by credit cards.
Ride-Sharing Service
Ride-sharing services like Uber are available in most urban areas in Argentina. The positive point is for non-Spanish speakers since they don’t need to communicate with the driver.
Intercity Transportation in Argentina
Air
Air travel always is the best, if you have no problem with the costs. Aerolíneas Argentinas (Austral), the country’s national airline, can help you reach various spots of the country. LanChile and Líneas Aéreas del Estado are other famous airlines for domestic traveling.
Train
Train is an inexpensive and convenient way of getting around in Argentina. From the capital, you can reach Rosario, Rojas, Mar del Plata, and Bahia Blanca.
Bus
Different types of long-distance buses are operating in Argentina. From economy types to business classes with dining on board.
Ferry
You can reach Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay, and Montevideo, Uruguay (the capital) by ferry service, operated by Boquebus, Cacciola, and Ferrytur.
Flight Deals to Argentina
Argentina Travel Costs
| Accommodation | |
|---|---|
| Budget | $4.5 – $8.5 |
| Mid-Range | $11 – $22 |
| High-End | $32 – $64 |
| Food | |
| Budget | $2 |
| Mid-Range | $5.5 |
| High-End | $15 |
| Transportation | |
| Budget | $1.5 |
| Mid-Range | $4 |
| High-End | $15 |
| Intercity Transportation | |
| Budget | $5 |
| Mid-Range | $14 |
| High-End | $44 |
| Entertainment | |
| Budget | $1.5 |
| Mid-Range | $4.2 |
| High-End | $14 |
| Alcohol | |
| Budget | $0.5 |
| Mid-Range | $1.5 |
| High-End | $2.77 |
| Average Daily Costs | |
| Budget | $11 |
| Mid-Range | $30 |
| High-End | $85 |
Best Hotels in Argentina
Find the best hotels in Argentina using our best price search engine, or go with one of our All-inclusive tours with 4 Star hotels included. You can book our guaranteed hotels for your extra accommodation; before or after your tour days.
Argentina Travel Tips
Drinking tap water is generally safe in Argentina, but high mineral content may upset your stomach. So, the safest recommendation: drink bottled water.
Like most other countries, tipping is not obligatory but expected. You may leave a gratuity depending on the service you receive. Tipping 10% when you’re satisfied is more than enough. Don’t think you have to leave tipping for poor service!
Spanish is the official language in Argentina. However, due to a large number of international immigrants, German, English, French, Italian, and Arabic are also spoken. Italian with about 1.5 million speakers is the second on the list. Don’t expect fluent English speakers in Argentina as English is rated down the list.
Peso is the official currency in Argentina. You can easily change USD to pesos at exchange houses. You can also withdraw pesos at most ATMs around the city. However, there’re transaction and withdrawal limitations for cards per day.
Dressy shoes and nice pants are popular along with jeans and t-shirts. Women in Argentina enjoy very feminine clothing; they don’t like to wear sneakers even while they’re wearing jeans! Enjoy wearing summer dresses, but watch out: not to wear too short! Shorts are not much popular. Argentines still tend to wear classy even in hot summers.
Having difficulty finding an internet connection in Argentina is comic. Almost all hotels, restaurants, airports, and many public areas in Argentina have free Wi-Fi.
Argentina is of the safest countries to travel to in Latin America, but expect trivial crime. Don’t use expensive jewelry in populated places, and take care of your properties to stay safe!
Showing up on time in Argentina is considered impolite. Try to arrive late, for instance, 20-40 min, is usual impressing your Argentine’s host.
Plug types C, with two round pins, and type I, a triangular-three flat pin plug, are used in Argentina. Appliances operate on 220V. Heading to Argentina from the USA? Pack a plug adapter.
Emergency Calls
| Emergency Numbers | |
|---|---|
| Argentina’s country code | 54 |
| International access code | 00 |
| Ambulance | 107 |
| Police | 911 |
| Fire | 100 |
Currency & Money Tips
Argentina’s official currency is the Argentine peso (AR$), with denominations of 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, and 1000 pesos. Coins are also available in 1, 2, 5, 10, 25, and 50 centavos. One peso is divided into 100 centavos. US dollars are also acceptable by many tourist businesses, but you need to have some pesos as well.
ATMs
You can find cajeros automáticos (ATMs) in almost all cities in Argentina, accepting major credit cards. ATM in Argentina is the best way to get money, but there are some limitations depending on the bank. Also, the withdrawal fee can be high, so you should be aware of that.
Credit Cards
Credit cards are accepted in major restaurants, shops, and hotels, especially in larger cities. Visa and MasterCard are the most popular credit cards in Argentina. However, American Express and some other cards are also acceptable in some places. Some businesses consider surcharge 5-10% toward credit card purchases.
Exchanging money
US dollar is the most accepted currency in Argentina. However, Chilean and Uruguayan pesos can also be exchanged easily. Dollar and euro can be exchanged in banks and exchange houses (cambios) in major cities. However, exchanging other currencies is hard outside of the capital.
Food & Drink (Argentinean Food)
If you love meat, especially beef, then you will feel right at home while in Argentina. They have lots of various dishes that are originals of their land and people, and numerous recipes from other continents. Everything they cook is made with love and creativity to make your mouth water and provide your body with nutrients. Be sure to try our recommendations and try anything delightful as you travel. Argentinian cuisine must not be missed!
Asado
Asado is the number one food in Argentinian cuisine, which is basically barbequed meat. It is the national dish of a nation that loves meat, so they offer some of the best grilled and barbequed meats you ever had. Since they used to have lots of cowboys and cattle, beef has a lot to say in their cooking and eating habits. The best experience of having Asado in Argentina is when the grill is near you, as the beef and sausages are being barbequed. The Asado is nowadays made with any kind of meat you can find in the country, and all of them seem to taste extra delicious there.
Empanadas
Empanadas is a food that has relatively traveled the earth since it is one of the most delicious pastries on the planet. First from Northern Africa to Spain, and then to Latin America, and now in Argentina. To make Empanadas, the dough is filled with savory or sweet fillings that always have minced meat inside them with various types of vegetables and spices. Creativity does not end with Empanadas since some people even make their version with fruits, rice, and even seafood. It is the kind of food one has to try wherever they go.
Empanadas can be a great snack while moving or a great dessert after a meal. If you fall in love with them, as half the planet has, learn the recipe from the locals and get creative yourself!
Milanesa
Milanesa is originally an Italian dish made with beef, breadcrumbs, and egg batter, and since its taste and texture were unique, it became part of Argentinian Cuisine. For Milanesa, the beef is taken from the cow’s leg and then grilled after being covered in the bread and egg batter. It sounds easy and simple, but since the people of Argentina love dishes with meat, they got creative here. There are numerous different versions of Milanesa that are made with different types of meat and various toppings.
Look for the Milanesa version made with beef and served with some fries and tomato sauce. As soon as you have tried this kind of Milanesa, look for more. It is a special food that must be had.
Chimichurri
Chimichurri is famous as the Argentinian Pesto, and some people mistake it with green salsa. The most basic ingredients are chopped parsley, garlic, onion, olive oil, oregano, vinegar or lemon, and chili. Chimichurri is not cooked, and since it has numerous versions, it can mix with a lot of things. Although it is not a meal, this sauce is so great that you must give it a try. The perfect combination for Chimichurri is meat. Any time you order a steak or any other kind of meat dish in Argentina, you have to order Chimichurri.
Provoleta
Provoleta is a kind of cheese made with cow milk and then grilled. It originated in Italy and was modified as a side dish for the numerous meat dishes of Argentine. It is barbequed and then topped with oregano, chili, or even Chimichurri. When it is cooked, it will be crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Provoleta has fewer different versions than the rest of this county’s cuisine, but it is something marvelous despite its simplicity. One of the other versions of Provoleta is one that uses goat milk for making the cheese.
Dulce De Leche
Dulce De Leche tastes like heaven, especially if you have a sweet tooth. It is a dairy product that a lot of people call milk jam or candy milk, but it is something like a caramelized condensed milk. It is quite tasty and very addictive, either on its own or mixed with other kinds of desserts. Try Dulce De Leche after a meal or with ice-creams, or even Empanadas!
Alfajores
Alfajores is a kind of Argentinian biscuit that looks like macarons with different fillings. These small sandwich cookies are famous as the most consumed Argentina cookies, and for a good reason. The biscuits for Alfajores are made with flour, sugar, salt, vanilla, cornstarch, butter, and egg yolks like many other desserts, but then they are filled with Dulce De Leche. Alfajores are mentioned after Dulce De Leche since you must first try the former and then also taste them inside these lovely biscuits.
Buy them as desserts, and then buy more of them to bring home. Alfajores is irresistible no matter which version you try or your taste and preferences.
Yerba Mate
Yerba Mate is an old and traditional herbal tea with lots of caffeine. This traditional herbal tea dates back to even before the colonial times of America. The leaves for making this ‘tea’ only grow in South America, and it should be served in special gourd pots. The leaves are either ground into a powder or prepared in hot water as whole leaves. Once the Yerba Mate is ready, a metal straw is placed in the gourd for drinking the tea. Traditionally, you will have to drink Yerba Mate with friends and pass the drink so everyone can enjoy it.
Matambre Arrollado
Metambre Arrollado is a kind of beef roll that should not be underestimated as it is very rich. Matambre is a kind of beef in Argentina that is sliced and filled with vegetables, olives, eggs, and herbs. As for Arrollado, it means rolled. When the Metambre Arrollado is prepared, it is served in thin slices and tastes great with a unique texture. A lot of people call Metambre Arrollado the “Hunger Killer” since it can be heavy even in small quantities. Metambre Arrollado can be served as a small appetizer or become a full meal, depending on how small or large it becomes.
Choripán
Choripán is the Argentinian equivalent of hot dogs that are found everywhere and loved by all the people of Argentina. It is basically a chorizo sandwich that can get various ingredients to improve the already good flavor. The simplest version of Choripán is mostly served as an appetizer unless you have more than a few of them or try them with caramelized onions along with herbs and vegetables. Choripán with Chimichurri is the best snack you can get in Argentina that will be remembered for the rest of your life.
Other Must-Tries in Argentina
- Carbonada
- Medialuna
- Pizza
- Llama
- Locro
- Humita
Mobile & Internet
If you want to be connected to the internet and share your selfies and beautiful photos of your trip in Argentina, there is a piece of good news! Argentina has a stable mobile network for tourists. There are four major SIM card providers in Argentina, including Personal, Claro, Movistar, and NEXTEL. For tourists, Personal is an excellent choice.
Where to buy it?
There are many Personal stores around the capital as well as other larger towns and cities. You don’t need to provide a passport for the PAYG SIM card.
Prices
There are too many packages of SIM cards in Argentina, but for instance, you can consider AR$17 ($3) for the SIM and AR$50 ($10) for PAYG. The cost of calls is AR3.25 ($0.60), but you need to pay 20% on average for the long-distance calls. For 3G internet, you need to add AR$1 ($0.18) daily.
Holidays & Festivals
| Name | Date 2021 | Date 2022 |
|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | 1-Jan | 1-Jan |
| Carnival / Shrove Monday | 15-Feb | 28-Feb |
| Carnival / Shrove Tuesday | 16-Feb | 1-Mar |
| Memorial Day | 24-Mar | 24-Mar |
| Maundy Thursday | 1-Apr | 14-Apr |
| Good Friday | 2-Apr | 15-Apr |
| Day of the Veterans | 2-Apr | 2-Apr |
| Labor Day / May Day | 1-May | 1-May |
| National Day/May 1810 Revolution | 25-May | 25-May |
| Flag Day | 20-Jun | 20-Jun |
| Day off for the Commemoration of General Don Martín Miguel de Güemes | 21-Jun | 17-Jun |
| Independence day | 9-Jul | 9-Jul |
| San Martín Day | 16-Aug | 15-Aug |
| Day of respect for cultural diversity | 11-Oct | 10-Oct |
| National Sovereignty Day | 20-Nov | 21-Nov |
| Feast of the Immaculate Conception | 8-Dec | 8-Dec |
| Christmas Day | 25-Dec | 25-Dec |
Shopping in Argentina
Mate
Mate is one of the most famous specialties in Argentina. In fact, Argentinean people don’t go anywhere without their mate kit, made up of a particular mate cup or Montecito, bombilla, a flask of hot water, and a bag of herby yerba leaves. It can be a unique souvenir from this country.
Gaucho Knives
If you love cooking, Gaucho Knife is something you should buy in Argentina. These kinds of knives have been used in Argentina for centuries. They are usually with a wooden or bone handle as well as a leather sheath for protection.
Leather
Argentina is one of the biggest consumers and exporters of the beef in the world. Therefore, it’s not strange to say that leather is one of the main industries in Argentina. The prices are reasonable, and the products are of the best quality.
Alfajores
If you are interested in bringing some foods from Argentina, Alfajores is an excellent option. These biscuits have various tastes, and they are exceptionally delicious.
Tango shoes
If you are interested in tango, you can buy some of the most beautiful tango shoes in Argentina, as the country is the main hub of this dance in the world. There are countless tango shoe designers and sellers in Argentina, especially in Buenos Aires.
Rhodocrosite
Rhodocrosite is the national stone in Argentina. Designers create fantastic and beautiful jewelry from this elegant stone, including delicate earrings, necklaces, and rings.
