Argentina: passion for tango and the vastness of Patagonia
Discover Argentina, where the passion of tango meets the majesty of Patagonia. From the vibrant neighborhoods of Buenos Aires to the Iguazú Falls and the Andean peaks, this country offers an unparalleled experience. Visit for its rich culture, exquisite cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes.
The best destinations to visit in Argentina
Favorite activities in Argentina
Best season
The best time to visit Argentina is during the intermediate seasons, which include spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May). These months offer pleasant temperatures and more affordable rates. To explore Buenos Aires and the north, spring and autumn are ideal for walking around the city and enjoying outdoor festivals. However, if your main interest is the majestic Patagonia, the optimal months range from October to April, allowing for hiking and sailing in the best weather. The high season, with more tourists and higher prices, generally coincides with the southern summer (December to February) and the two weeks around Easter.
Weather
The climate in Argentina is extremely diverse due to its vast size, ranging from subtropical in the north to polar in the south. In general, average temperatures vary widely: in the north (subtropical), highs can reach 35°C to 40°C in the summer months (December to February), with winter lows around 10°C. In the center (Pampas region), summer is warm, with highs up to 30°C to 32°C in January, and winter is cool, with lows around 5°C in July, sometimes dropping below 0°C. In Patagonia (south), the climate is cold and dry; the warmest months (January/February) record average highs of 15°C to 20°C, while winter lows (June/July) are consistently below zero, reaching as low as -10°C or less in the southernmost areas.
Frequently asked questions
What should I do or see on my first visit to Argentina?
According to tourists who have visited Argentina, the must-do activities on a first visit are: 1. Explore the stunning glaciers in southern Argentina, including the famous Perito Moreno. You can fly to El Calafate and then take a bus or organized tour. The Perito Moreno Glacier rises up to 74 meters above water level. 2. Marvel at the magnitude of the Iguazú Falls, a system of hundreds of waterfalls. You can fly to Puerto Iguazú and then take a bus or taxi to the park. The national park covers 67,720 hectares. 3. Tour the vibrant Argentine capital, Buenos Aires, known for its European architecture, tango, and cultural life. You can get around on foot, by subway, bus, or taxi/app. The Obelisco stands 67 meters tall. 4. Visit the Cuyo Region (Mendoza), the capital of Argentine wine, and enjoy mountainous landscapes and outdoor activities. You can fly to Mendoza and then drive or take a tour. The province has over 1,200 wineries. Suggested itinerary: Spend at least 3 days in Buenos Aires, 3 days in El Calafate for glaciers, or 2 days in Puerto Iguazú for the falls.
What are the best activities to do in Argentina?
The top-rated activities by tourists in Argentina are: 1. Navigation near the Perito Moreno Glacier: Get close to the imposing ice walls on a boat tour of Lake Argentino. Tours usually last between 1 and 2 hours. 2. Tango Class in Buenos Aires: Learn the basic steps of this passionate Argentine dance in an interactive class. Many classes include a social practice afterward. 3. Wine Tasting in Mendoza: Visit renowned wineries and taste some of the best Malbec wines in the world. The region produces 70% of Argentina's wine. 4. Trekking in Patagonia (El Chaltén): Hike in the national trekking capital, with trails leading to Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre. There are trails for all levels. 5. Explore Northwest Argentina (Salta and Jujuy): Discover desert landscapes, colonial towns, and rich Andean culture. This includes the Quebrada de Humahuaca, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
What day trips can be taken from Argentina?
The following day trips can be taken from Argentina: 1. Tigre and the Paraná Delta: 30 km from Buenos Aires (1 hour by train or bus). Navigate the rivers and streams of the Delta, visit the Puerto de Frutos. It is one of the largest deltas in the world. Best for families and nature lovers. 2. Estancia in the Pampas: 100 km from Buenos Aires (1.5-2 hours by car or tour). Experience rural Argentine life, enjoy an asado, and watch horse-riding demonstrations. It allows you to learn about gaucho traditions. Best for families and culture enthusiasts. 3. Ushuaia (Isla Grande de Tierra del Fuego): 3.5 hours by plane from Buenos Aires. Tierra del Fuego National Park, Beagle Channel, Maritime Museum. It is the southernmost city in the world. Best for adventurers and nature lovers. 4. Bariloche (Circuito Chico): 60 km from Bariloche (2.5 hours by car or bus). Lake and mountain landscapes, Cerro Campanario, Llao Llao Hotel. Known as "Argentina's Switzerland." Best for nature lovers and families.
How many days are recommended to visit Argentina?
A minimum of 7 days is recommended to visit Argentina, ideally 14 days, and 21 days for an extended visit. Argentina is a vast country with a great diversity of landscapes and attractions spread throughout its territory. A minimum one-week visit allows you to see highlights like Buenos Aires and a natural region (e.g., Iguazú or Patagonia). Two weeks allow for a deeper exploration, combining several regions. Three weeks or more are ideal for a comprehensive tour. A suggested distribution is: 3-4 days in Buenos Aires, 3-4 days in Patagonia (e.g., El Calafate/El Chaltén), 2-3 days in Iguazú, and 2-3 days in Mendoza or Northwest Argentina. Factors to consider include the large distances between destinations, the diversity of landscapes, the desired travel pace, and the number of regions to visit.
What is the best time to visit Argentina in terms of prices and climate?
The high season, with ideal summer weather and winter vacations, runs from December to February and July. Temperatures range from 15°C to 30°C. Prices are high, potentially doubling. The low season, with average prices and discounts of 20-40%, runs from March to May and from September to November. The weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures from 5°C to 20°C, although it can be cold in the south. The ideal season, with pleasant weather in most of the country, fewer crowds, and more accessible prices (15-30% discount), runs from March, April, October, and November. Temperatures range from 10°C to 25°C.
Is it expensive to travel to Argentina?
Traveling to Argentina has a moderate cost level. The local currency is ARS, with an approximate exchange rate of 900 ARS per USD. A daily budget for backpackers ranges from USD 40 to USD 70, including hostel accommodations, budget meals, and public transportation. For a mid-range budget, it is estimated between USD 80 and USD 150, covering 3-star hotels, meals at average restaurants, and paid tours. For a comfortable trip, the daily budget ranges from USD 160 to USD 300, including 4-5 star hotels, fine dining, and exclusive activities. Reference costs are: average restaurant meal between ARS 15,000-25,000 (USD 17-28), budget meal between ARS 7,000-12,000 (USD 8-13), public transport between ARS 500-1,000 per trip (USD 1-1.11), average attraction entry between USD 10-30, budget accommodation per night between ARS 25,000-45,000 (USD 28-50), and mid-range accommodation per night between ARS 70,000-150,000 (USD 78-167). An example budget for 5 days is around USD 400-750. Argentina offers good value for money compared to other South American destinations. Money-saving tips include using public transport, eating at local parrillas, taking advantage of free attractions, and traveling in the low season.
What budget tours can be done in Argentina?
Budget tours can be done in Argentina by visiting free attractions such as Caminito (La Boca, Buenos Aires), the Palermo Woods (Buenos Aires), Avenida 9 de Julio and the Obelisco (Buenos Aires), and free trails within Los Glaciares National Park. There are also Free Walking Tours in Buenos Aires and Iguazú, where a voluntary tip for the guide is appreciated. The Subte (Metro) in Buenos Aires offers economical transport at approximately USD 1 per trip. For guided tours, Tur.com highlights: Full-Day Tour of Buenos Aires from USD 45, Excursion to Iguazú Falls (Argentinian side) from USD 60, Tango and Dinner Show Tour from USD 75, Winery Tour in Mendoza from USD 85, Trekking to Fitz Roy (El Chaltén) from USD 95, Visit to the Salinas Grandes (Jujuy) from USD 70, Full-Day Excursion to the Tigre Delta from USD 55, Gaucho Estancia Experience from USD 120.
