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Argentina Travel Guide: Best Argentina Tours for Your Vacation

buenos aires, Argentina Travel Guide: Best Argentina Tours for Your Argentina Vacation

If you’re headed on an Argentina vacation, you’ll need some solid Argentina tours to help you experience the best of this vast and beautiful country. Having lived in Buenos Aires myself, Argentina is a country that’s very close to my heart! There are so many places to visit in Argentina that will literally take your breath away, from the Perito Moreno Glacier in Patagonia to the tango-filled streets of Buenos Aires. 

With endless Argentina attractions, you could easily spend months or even years exploring all that this Latin gem has to offer. But if you’ve only got a few days to fill up on world-class steak and wine, not to worry! This Argentina travel guide will give you a great overview of the country’s most iconic destinations, including Buenos Aires, Mendoza, Bariloche, Iguazú, Salta and Jujuy, and Patagonia

Throughout this Argentina itinerary I’ll touch on what to do in Argentina, how to get around in Argentina, best Argentina tours, and so much more! This guide will also include Argentina Travel Tips and FAQs and my personal selection of Travel Essentials for your Argentina vacation.

Ready to book your Argentina vacation? Check out Skyscanner to find the best deals on flights from your departing city and take the first step towards planning your South America vacation!

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Downtown Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires

When you think of Argentina, the first thing that probably comes to mind is Buenos Aires. The country’s sparkling capital city is one of the best places to visit in Argentina! Among the most modern South American cities, Buenos Aires has a vaguely European vibe mixed with its own distinct porteño culture, which makes it one of the best destinations in my Argentina travel guide.

Things to Do in Buenos Aires

Bosques de Palermo: An enormous lush, green park in the heart of Buenos Aires, Bosques de Palermo is one of my favorite Argentina attractions. You could spend hours wandering through rose gardens, boating on the lakes, enjoying the food trucks, checking out the Buenos Aires Zoo, and more. A visit to the Bosques de Palermo is a great way to kick off your Argentina vacation!

My picks for best Buenos Aires tours: The Argentine Experience: Empanada Making, Steak, Wine, Alfajores and MateBike Tour: Half-Day City Highlights of Buenos AiresClosed-Door Restaurant in Buenos Aires: Dining Experience at Steaks by Luis

Feria San Telmo: One of my all-time favorite things to do in Buenos Aires and something you absolutely should not miss when you tour Argentina is the Feria San Telmo! This open-air market happens every Sunday and is filled with local vendors, live music, and excellent Argentine street food.

My picks for best San Telmo tours: Buenos Aires Bike Tour: San Telmo and La Boca DistrictsSmall-Group City Tour of Buenos AiresBuenos Aires in a Day – All Inclusive Bike Tour

Live Tango Show: No Argentina vacation would be complete without experiencing a live tango show or lesson, and Buenos Aires is the perfect place to do it! Immerse yourself in this fascinating culture with the sensuality, passion, and precision of Argentine tango.

My picks for best Buenos Aires tango lessons and shows: La Ventana Tango Show with Optional Dinner in Buenos AiresBuenos Aires: Señor Tango Dinner & ShowBuenos Aires Tango Show, Dinner and Dance Lessons

Recoleta Cemetery: The iconic Recoleta Cemetery is one of the top Argentina attractions, housing elaborate gravesites of the country’s most notable figures. Visit the marble mausoleum of Evita Peron and stroll through this eerily beautiful destination in the heart of the upscale Recoleta neighborhood. 

My picks for best Recoleta Cemetery tours: Recoleta Cemetery (Cemiterio de Recoleta) Tours;  Buenos Aires in a Day – All Inclusive Bike TourRecoleta Six-or-less-people Afternoon Walking Tour

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Caminito, La Boca
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Teatro Colón Opera House

Teatro Colón Opera HouseAnother top Argentina attraction, you won’t want to miss a visit to the ornate Teatro Colón Opera House! Take a tour to learn the history of this breathtaking opera house or spend an evening enjoying a world-class show.

My picks for best Teatro Colón tours: Teatro Colon Theatre Admission Ticket in Buenos AiresTeatro Colon Skip-the-Line plus Palaces of Buenos Aires TourColon Theater – Guided Tour

Puerto Madero: One of the highest-end neighborhoods in Buenos Aires, Puerto Madero is the city’s business and “new money” district. Make a reservation for dinner at one of the barrio’s upscale restaurants and take a stroll across the impressive Puente de la Mujer bridge lit up against the Rio de la Plata. 

My picks for best Puerto Madero tours: Puerto Madero ToursHeart of the City Bike TourSmall-Group City Tour of Buenos Aires

Casa Rosada: A visit to the Casa Rosada is standard on most Argentina travel guides, and for good reason! One of the top Argentina tourist attractions, the Casa Rosada is the official office and mansion of the President of Argentina. Located in the city center, there are lots of tours available to explore the remarkable Casa Rosada and learn about the country’s fascinating history. 

My picks for best Casa Rosada tours: Buenos Aires Sightseeing City TourBuenos Aires: Half-Day Sightseeing Tour

La Boca: La Boca is THE tourist attraction for first time visitors to Buenos Aires, and with good reason! Stroll along Caminito, the neighborhood’s colorful main strip, for traditional Argentine steakhouses, spontaneous tango shows, and colorful buildings that will give you a true feel for authentic porteño, or local to Buenos Aires, culture.

My picks for best La Boca tours: Half-Day Bike Tour in Buenos Aires Argentina with LunchHighlights of Buenos Aires: Small Group 3-Hour Guided TourBuenos Aires: La Boca Guided Walking Tour in English

Where to Stay in Buenos Aires

My picks for where to stay in Buenos Aires: Home HotelCasaSur RecoletaAmerica Del Sur Hostel Buenos Aires 

You have several great options when it comes to where to stay in Buenos Aires. Personally, I would recommend staying in either the Palermo, Recoleta, or San Telmo neighborhoods. These three areas are the most charming and centrally located, and as a tourist, will offer you the best feel for the city. Palermo is divided into Palermo Soho and Palermo Hollywood, and both areas are filled with trendy shops, cafes, boutiques, and plazas perfect for mingling with locals and exploring the city’s infamous nightlife. Personally, I think Palermo is one of the best places to visit in Argentina! Recoleta is a high-end, largely residential neighborhood and hosts some of the city’s top tourist attractions, including the iconic Recoleta Cemetery. This is a nice neighborhood for a more relaxed stay in an affluent area. Finally, San Telmo is located in the heart of the city, adjacent to El Centro, and is characterized by romantic architecture and a bohemian arts community. It’s also home to Feria San Telmo, the bustling Sunday market, which is fun if you’re staying for the weekend.

How to Get Around Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires has an extensive subte, or subway, and bus system which will take you basically anywhere you could ever need to go within the city. Though Buenos Aires is enormous, the neighborhoods are largely walkable and Ubers and taxis are also an option for getting around, though they are more expensive than their alternatives. If you plan to take day trips from Buenos Aires, there are also busses and trains that can inexpensively take you to the city’s various suburbs including Tigre, where many locals choose to spend holidays in Argentina.

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Mendoza

There’s no question that Mendoza is one of the best places to visit in Argentina! This picturesque wine country produces some of the world’s finest vintages. Imagine sprawling vineyards lined with picturesque white stucco wineries against the backdrop of the snow-capped Andes Mountains. That’s Mendoza!

Things to Do in Mendoza

Bodega Tours and Wine Tastings: Bodega, or Argentine winery, tours and wine tastings are without a doubt the top thing to do in Mendoza. With over 1,000 bodegas to choose from, you have endless opportunities for experiencing all that this gorgeous wine country has to offer. Sign up for a tour or rent bicycles and spend the day riding along picturesque roads, bouncing from bodega to bodega. I would recommend adding a couple of Argentina wine tours to your Argentina itinerary to make the most of your visit to Mendoza! 

My picks for best Mendoza wine tours: Mendoza Hop-On Hop-Off Wine TourMendoza Wine Tour with LunchMendoza: Half-Day Wine Tour with Tastings

Explore Downtown: Mendoza is home to a charming downtown, filled with peaceful plazas, chic boutiques, shops, bars, and restaurants. Spend your day strolling along tree-lined streets, exploring the city’s rich history and museums, dining in trendy restaurants, and drinking world-class vino.

My picks for best Mendoza tours: Bike Tour in Mendoza Wine CountryHalf Day Mendoza City Sightseeing Tour

Tour the Andes: Mendoza has plenty of seasonal activities to offer just outside the city. From skiing to hiking to whitewater rafting, you’ll definitely want to check out a tour that takes you into the nearby Andes Mountains. This excursion was one of my all-time favorite Argentina tours! You’re sure to be amazed by the magnitude and breathtaking beauty of the Andes; trust me, it’s worth it!

My picks for best Andes Mountains tours: Full-Day Aconcagua ExperienceTour Aconcagua Park in Small Group from Mendoza with Barbecue Lunch; From Mendoza: High Andes Aconcagua Mountain Tour

Mendoza vineyards
Mendoza Bodega

Where to Stay in Mendoza

My picks for where to stay in Mendoza: Park Hyatt Mendoza Hotel, Casino & SpaHostel Estacion Mendoza

Unless you’re staying at an upscale wine lodge, spa resort, or luxury vineyard property, the best place for the average traveler to stay is in Mendoza Centro, the Mendoza city center. It’s the most centrally located and accessible area for all downtown attractions, including bars, restaurants, shops, cafes, and grocery stores, and it’s also a convenient place to stay in order to get to nearby bodegas or pick up a tour.

How to Get Around in Mendoza

The best way to get around Mendoza is on foot, by taxi, or on a tour. Chances are, if you plan to spend more than one day in Mendoza you’ll be employing all three transportation methods! If you stick around the city center, you’ll be just fine walking or taking a taxi to wherever you want to go. In order to get to the bodegas and vineyards, however, you’ll want to sign up for either an organized tour, rent a bike, or hire a driver.

Iguazú Falls

The Iguazú waterfalls on the border of Brazil and Argentina are renowned as the largest waterfall system in the world. A true feat of nature, the Iguazú Falls shouldn’t be missed on your Argentina vacation! You will be astounded by the raw power and true grandeur of the falls which is unlike anything else in the world!

Things to Do in Iguazú

Helicopter Tour: One of the best ways to experience the Iguazú Falls is from above! As you rise above the falls in a helicopter, you will be able to experience their true magnitude from both sides of the border. This type of tour will allow you to take in this incredible natural wonder from an entirely new perspective. 

My picks for best Iguazú helicopter tours: Helicopter flight over Iguazu Falls from Puerto Iguazú HotelsFrom Foz do Iguaçu: Brazilian Side of the Falls with Ticket 

Boat Tour into the Falls: A less expensive but equally as incredible option for experiencing Iguazú is by boat. Start by hiking around the falls to the various lookout points until you reach the boat port and board the ferry that takes you literally into the falls. It’s quite an experience!

My picks for best Iguazú boat tours: Iguazu Falls Tour, Boat Ride, Train, Safari TruckIguazu Falls Argentinian Side Full Day Tour with optional Boat RideFull-Day Trip to Iguazú National Park with Small-Group

Explore the Town: There’s not too much else to do in Puerto Iguazú besides visiting the nearby falls, but you can easily spend an afternoon and evening exploring the local art markets and bars and restaurants in the area. This little town actually has a happening nightlife so you’ll definitely want to check it out!

My picks for best Puerto Iguazú tours: From Puerto Iguazu: San Ignacio Ruins and Wanda Mines TourHalf-Day Iguazú Forest AdventureFrom Puerto Iguazu: Argentina & Brazil Sides of Iguazu Falls

Garganta del Diablo: The Devil’s Throat, or La Garganta del Diablo, is the highest and most famous of the Iguazú waterfalls, leaving no question as to why this is one of the top Argentina tourist attractions! It can be accessed through a long walkway that will take you right out on top of the falls. This is one of the best spots to see, hear, and feel the intense power of Iguazú.

My picks for best Garganta del Diablo tours: Full-Day Tour to Iguazu FallsPuerto Iguazu: Iguazu Falls Argentinian Side Full-Day Tour

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Iguazú overlook
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La Garganta del Diablo

Where to Stay in Iguazú

My picks for where to stay in Iguazú: Panoramic Grand – IguazúO2 Hotel IguazuHostel Iguazu Falls

Because the Iguazú Falls are situated on the border of Argentina and Brazil, you have several options for where to stay when visiting the falls. During your Argentina vacation, you’ll likely want to stay on the Argentina side in the Misiones province, either in the national park itself or in the town of Puerto Iguazú. There are plenty of both luxurious and affordable hotels and hostels, Airbnbs, and resorts in and around the falls. If you prefer to explore Iguazú during the day and head into town at night, you should consider staying in or close to Puerto Iguazú. If you opt to stay on the Brazil side, where they are referred to as the Iguassu Falls, you may need a visa in order to enter Brazil.

How to Get Around Iguazú

The falls are pretty spread out from all other attractions in the area, so I would recommend either renting a car, hiring a driver, or taking a tour for your visit to Iguazú. Taxis are also available in this area, but personally, I think it’s best to take a tour so your guide can offer insight into the history of the falls and show you the best places to go!

Patagonia

Patagonia is one of Argentina’s finest gems. Home to some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes and a hub for outdoor adventure activities, Patagonia is easily one of the best places to visit in Argentina! From awe-inspiring glaciers to towering snow-capped mountains, you won’t be disappointed by Patagonia.

Things to Do in Patagonia

Parque Nacional los Glaciares: The most iconic national park in Argentine Patagonia, you’ll definitely want to visit Los Glaciares while you tour Argentina. Two of the park’s most noteworthy features include the enormous El Perito Moreno glacier and striking Mt. Fitz Roy. Whether you choose to hike, board a boat, or take a tour, this is one area you won’t want to miss.

My picks for best Los Glaciares National Park tours: Glaciers Gourmet Experience: Full-Day Cruise with LunchPerito Moreno Glacier Mini Trekking TourPerito Moreno Glacier with Optional Nautical Safari

El Chaltén: El Chaltén is a small town renowned as the gateway to breathtaking Mt. Fitz Roy. A great addition to your Argentina itinerary, this area offers lots of opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, rock climbing, ice trekking, and more to give you a feel for what Argentine Patagonia is all about.

My picks for best El Chaltén tours: From El Calafate: Full-Day Tour to El ChalténFull Day Chalten Soft; El Chalten Full-Day from El Calafate with Lunch

El Calafate: Another Patagonian town, El Calafate is an additional gateway to Los Glaciares National Park, specifically to the Perito Moreno glacier which is one of the major Argentina tourist attractions. From El Calafate you can take a tour to nearby Cueva de las Manos, a cave which is home to ancient cave art and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

My picks for best tours from El Calafate: El Calafate: Perito Moreno Glacier Mini Trekking ExperienceEl Calafate: Perito Moreno Glacier & Optional Boat CruiseEl Calafate: Native Cultures 4×4 Half-Day Excursion

Ushuaia: Located in the Tierra del Fuego province of Argentina, Ushuaia has been nicknamed the “End of the World” because it’s the southernmost city on the planet. The gateway for cruises to Antarctica and a hub for outdoor adventure activities, head to Ushuaia to hike in Tierra del Fuego National Park, visit “Penguin Island”, cruise along the Beagle Channel, and access nearby ski resorts. 

My picks for best Ushuaia tours: Tierra del Fuego National Park & The End of the World TrainWalk with the Penguins in Martillo IslandBeagle Channel navigation with mini trekking by Patagonia Explorer

Perito Moreno Glacier
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Penguin in Ushuaia

Where to Stay in Patagonia

My picks for where to stay in Patagonia: Calafate HostelEl Chalten ApartsAlto Andino Hotel 

Where you plan to spend the majority of your time in Patagonia will largely determine where you should stay. You can base yourself in the towns of El Calafate or El Chalten for the easiest access to the attractions of Los Glaciares National Park. If you plan to spend your time in Tierra del Fuego, staying in Ushuaia will be your best bet. In any case, there are plenty of hostels, hotels, Airbnbs, and high-end lodges in and around each of these areas so you have several options to choose from based on your preferences. If you’re looking for a more unique Patagonia experience, consider staying in a remote Estancia to fully immerse yourself in the traditions of the Argentine countryside.

How to Get Around in Patagonia

Your best bet is to fly when traveling to Patagonia, as all other major cities are relatively far away. Busses are the easiest and most budget-friendly way to get around once in Patagonia, though distances are far and they will take the longest. Taking an organized tour or renting a car are other solid options for getting around, though if you plan to travel from El Chalten or El Calafate south to Ushuaia, you will want to fly.

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Bariloche

One of Argentine Patagonia’s most notable towns, Bariloche has been nicknamed the “Swiss Alps of South America” for its magnificent snow-capped Andes Mountains and German-inspired food, culture and architecture. Situated in the heart of Argentina’s Lakes District, you can enjoy a host of seasonal outdoor activities or simply relax and take in the awe-inspiring scenery during your visit to Bariloche.

Things to Do in Bariloche

Hike the Lakes District: Bariloche is surrounded by the striking Andes Mountains and a multitude of crystal clear glacial lakes, making it the perfect place to get outside and explore on foot. There are tons of hiking trails and tours available throughout the region that are definitely worth checking out!

My picks for best Bariloche hiking tours: Half Day Small Circuit Tour: Mt Campanario and Llao Llao PeninsulaTronador Hill Day Trip from Bariloche

Scenic Boat Cruise: Bariloche is situated in the heart of the Lakes District, so boat cruises and water activities in the area are a must. Take a boat tour of iconic Lake Nahuel Huapi, relax, and enjoy your beautiful surroundings. 

My picks for best Bariloche boat tours: Lake Excursion to Victoria Island and Arrayanes ForestPuerto Blest Sightseeing Cruise and Waterfalls Hike from BarilocheNahuel Huapi Lake Tours

Outdoor Activities: The wide variety of outdoor activities offered make Bariloche one of the best places to visit in Argentina! Seasonal activities include hiking, fishing, sailing, horseback riding, skiing, and swimming, so there’s something for everyone to enjoy!

My picks for best Bariloche adventure tours: Lago Gutierrez Half-Day Kayak Tour from BarilocheBariloche: 7 Lakes & San Martin de Los Andes Road Trip; Fly Fishing Bariloche

Explore the Town: Spend the day exploring the charming town of San Carlos de Bariloche. Experience the region’s German roots by sampling their iconic chocolate and beer selections and admiring the Central European-style architecture and Swiss chalets. Immerse yourself in the region’s rich culture with a Bariloche tour!

My picks for best Bariloche tours: Bariloche Horseback Riding Tour with Traditional Argentine AsadoBariloche Flavours Tasting Walking TourBariloche: Regional Foods Walking Tour

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Bariloche Lakes District
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Bariloche Swiss-style lodges

Where to Stay in Bariloche

My picks for where to stay in Bariloche: Hotel ConcordeNH Bariloche EdelweissArelauquen Lodge, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel 

The most convenient and centrally located place to stay in Bariloche is in the Bariloche City Center. It’s situated along the shores of beautiful Lake Nahuel Huapi and will allow you access to all of Bariloche’s main attractions. If you have a larger budget, consider staying in a mountain lodge in the surrounding areas or if you’re planning to spend your time doing mostly seasonal activities (i.e. swimming at the beach or skiing), you’ll want to situate yourself near either Lago Gutierrez or Cerro Catedral, respectively.

How to Get Around in Bariloche

The best way to get around in Bariloche is by car, so you’ll want to consider renting a car or taking a tour to make the most of your visit to the Lakes District. There are also busses available throughout the city which will be the cheapest method of transport though they won’t be as flexible as having your own car. Weather permitting, biking is also a great way to get to and from shorter distances in Bariloche.

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Cerro de los Siete Colores

Salta and Jujuy

Though it doesn’t make it onto every Argentina travel guide, Salta is definitely one of the best places to visit in Argentina. Located in northern Argentina, Salta and Jujuy are home to vibrant rock formations including the Cerro de los Siete Colores, the Hill of Seven Colors. These charming small towns comprise an off the beaten path destination that is alive with color, nature, and music, and offers an authentic regional feel. 

Things to Do in Salta and Jujuy

Explore Salta: The enchanting northern Argentina town of Salta has much to offer in itself, though most tourists make their way here to visit the nearby attractions. Salta’s historic central plaza is home to a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants, many of which feature live music. The plaza itself is full of gardens, trees, and flowers, making it a serene place to spend a relaxing afternoon or enjoy dinner. 

My picks for best Salta tours: Salta: 4-Hour Guided Highlights City TourSalta City Sightseeing Tour

Take a Tour to Jujuy: The region of Jujuy is known for the breathtaking rock formations the region is famous for. The towns of Humahuaca and Purmamarca in Jujuy are situated just next to the Cerro de los Siete Colores and are the perfect places to explore local handicrafts markets and enjoy an authentic lunch. There are many small group day tours to Jujuy from Salta that will take you through this area.

My picks for best Salta and Jujuy tours: Full-Day Tour to Humahuaca from SaltaFull-Day Tour to Humahuaca Gorge from SaltaFull-Day Tour to Humahuaca, Purmamarca and Tilcara

Cafayate: Cafayate is Argentina’s charming off the beaten track wine region and makes for an amazing day trip from Salta! Sample some of the region’s top vintages on any number of Argentina wine tours that will take you through this beautiful area. Many tours from Salta to Jujuy include Cafayate as well.

My picks for best Cafayate tours: Full-Day Tour Cafayate Calchaqui Valleys with WineFrom Salta: Full-Day Tour to Cafayate with Wine Tasting

Salinas Grandes: Another worthwhile day trip from Salta is to Salinas Grandes, vast salt flats about three-and-a-half hours outside the city. Play with perspective in your photos, making some of your travel companions tiny while the others are giant!

My picks for best Salinas Grandes tours: From Salta: Salinas Grandes, Purmamarca & Los Colorados HikeFull-Day Tour Salinas Grandes, Purmamarca whith trekking and More from SaltaFull-day Salinas Grandes, San Antonio and Purmamarca from Salta

Museum of High Altitude Archeology (MAAM): This incredible museum is located in central Salta and is DEFINITELY worth a visit! Personally, I’m not a huge museum person but the Museum of High Altitude Archeology, or the Museo de Arqueologia de Alta Montana, is really something else! From incredibly well-preserved high-altitude mummies to information about the ancient culture of northern Argentina’s indigenous community, you won’t regret stopping in if you have some extra time in Salta.

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Vineyards in Cafayate
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Salinas Grandes

Where to Stay in Salta and Jujuy

My picks for where to stay in Salta and Jujuy: Luxor Hotel SaltaAlejandro 1º HotelPrisamata Hostel

Stay in Salta, particularly in the historic city center. Salta is a great jumping off point for tours to the surrounding areas and has the most to offer by way of lodging accommodations, nightlife, restaurants, and shops. There are accommodation options for every budget, from boutique hotels to hostels and more.

How to Get Around in Salta and Jujuy

The best way to get around Salta is on foot. The city is very walkable but taxis are also available for longer distances. If you don’t plan to rent a car to see the surrounding areas, taking a tour is a wonderful option to make the most of your trip to Salta and Jujuy!

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Ushuaia, Patagonia, Argentina

Read on for more Argentina Travel Tips and help with planning a trip to Argentina!

Argentina Travel Essentials

World Nomads Travel Insurance: It is essential to have excellent travel insurance before embarking on your Argentina vacation! I always choose WorldNomads.com to insure my international trips because they allow you to  buy and claim online, even after you’ve left home. World Nomads is designed for adventurous travelers with cover for medical, evacuation, baggage and a range of adventure sports and activities too, making them the perfect choice for your South America travels.

Osprey Farpoint 55 Travel Backpack: This backpacking pack by Osprey is THE traveler’s backpack, and I wouldn’t recommend any other! It comes with a detachable daypack with a laptop sleeve, it’s comfortable, durable, and incredibly spacious. You’ll definitely want a reliable backpack like this one while you tour Argentina!

Quick Dry Travel Towel: I never leave for an international trip without my handy microfiber travel towel! It’s lightweight, compact, and dries super fast, which makes it perfect to toss in your daypack for a hike or use as a convenient travel towel while you tour Argentina. 

Check out my Recommended Travel Essentials page for more useful resources you shouldn’t travel without!

Patagonia
Me hiking in El Chaltén

Argentina Travel Tips & FAQs

Is Argentina safe?

Yes, relatively, Argentina is a safe place to visit for tourists. As with anywhere, petty crime does exist, especially in the big cities, so it’s important not to flaunt expensive or expensive-looking objects and keep your belongings secure. Never walk alone after dark and avoid wandering in bad neighborhoods anywhere you go. Argentina tours are a great way to safely explore the country and make the most of your adventure! No matter how you decide to tour Argentina, always be sure to keep your wits about you and take typical safety precautions to ensure a safe and happy Argentina trip! 

What currency does Argentina use?

Argentina uses the Argentine peso. The current exchange rate as of January 2021 is about 85 ARS to 1 USD, though it’s important to check for the most updated information before you head out on your Argentina vacation!

Can you drink tap water in Argentina?

In most of the country, yes! Argentina is one of the only South American countries where it is safe to drink tap water. In Buenos Aires and larger cities you will be totally fine drinking from the tap, but in rural areas you should definitely stick to bottled water to be safe and avoid potential waterborne illnesses. 

Traditional Argentine asado
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Argentine empanadas
What food is Argentina known for?

Argentina is known for its world-class beef and wine. Order a steak anywhere in the country and you won’t be disappointed! Prices are also much cheaper for high quality beef and wine in Argentina than what you’re likely used to at home, which is awesome. Facturas, dulce de leche, choripán, alfajores, and empanadas are also typical Argentine foods which you shouldn’t miss during your Argentina vacation! 

For all the great food Argentina has to offer, I will say, you’ll want to avoid the pizza! Ironically, Argentine food and culture has largely been shaped by its massive influx of Italian immigrants, meaning you can get pizza and gelato almost everywhere you go. That said, the pizza is HORRIBLE! How is that possible, you ask? I really have no idea, you’ll just have to try it for yourself…don’t say I didn’t warn you!

What is the best way to get around Argentina?

Though it is the most expensive way by far, the best way to get around Argentina is to fly. Distances are long and roads in rural parts of the country are not always great. Though there are long-distance bus routes all over the country that run super cheap, accidents are not uncommon and you may be on the bus for upwards of 16 hours depending on where you’re headed! However, a great way to explore different parts of the country is via Argentina tours. Intrepid Travel tours do a great job of taking you through Argentina’s major sightseeing destinations cheaply, safely, and efficiently.

When is the best time to visit Argentina?

Argentina experiences mild winters and HOT summers, and because it’s located in the Southern Hemisphere, the seasons are switched. The best time to visit Argentina is during their autumn (April to mid-June) and spring (October to mid-December) seasons, as there are fewer tourists than in the summer and the weather is mild and pleasant.

Floralis Genérica, Recoleta, Buenos Aires

Traveling Alone or Want to Join an Argentina Tour?

If planning a trip to Argentina is too overwhelming and you’d rather tour Argentina with ease, consider an Intrepid Travel Argentina group tour! Intrepid Travel Argentina tours will take you to the country’s top destinations with a knowledgeable local guide and like-minded travel companions. Personally, I love using Intrepid for my international trips because they’re affordable, sustainable, and do a great job of giving you an authentic local experience. I can’t recommend Intrepid Travel tours more for your Argentina vacation!

*Please note that some of the above are affiliate links. At no additional cost to you, I make a small commission if you choose to make a purchase. Please know that I ONLY recommend products that I personally use or believe to be helpful to other travelers!