Travel Guide to Argentina

Argentina is one of South America's most captivating and diverse destinations, offering an extraordinary range of experiences from cosmopolitan Buenos Aires to the remote wilderness of Patagonia. The country stretches from the subtropical north to the sub-Antarctic south, encompassing dramatic glaciers, thundering waterfalls, wine regions, vast steppes, and vibrant cultural traditions.

Most trips to Argentina naturally revolve around several themes: Buenos Aires culture and tango, Patagonian wilderness and glaciers, wine regions and gastronomy, Iguazu Falls, wildlife watching, and Andean landscapes. The challenge and the joy is combining these experiences while managing Argentina's vast distances.

Buenos Aires is one of the world's great cities, combining European elegance with Latin American passion. The city of 10 million offers world-class dining, legendary tango culture, diverse neighborhoods, and sophisticated urban life.

• Tango shows and milongas – experience Argentina's most famous cultural export in intimate venues or grand dinner shows
• La Boca and Caminito – the colorful neighborhood that's become Buenos Aires' most photographed street
• Recoleta – elegant neighborhood with famous cemetery, museums, parks, and cafes
• Palermo – trendy area with Soho boutiques, parks, restaurants, and nightlife
• San Telmo – bohemian quarter with Sunday antique market and authentic tango in the streets
• Teatro Colón – world-class opera house with exceptional acoustics and guided tours
• Parrillas (steakhouses) – some of the world's finest beef in traditional and modern settings
• Café culture – historic cafes where writers and intellectuals have gathered for over a century

Buenos Aires deserves at least 3-4 days to experience its neighborhoods, food scene, tango culture, and urban sophistication.

Argentine Patagonia encompasses the southern third of the country, featuring some of South America's most spectacular wilderness landscapes.

• El Chaltén** – Argentina's trekking capital offers day hikes and multi-day expeditions amid jagged peaks:
• Fitz Roy base camp trek (8-10 hours) with iconic mountain views
• Cerro Torre viewpoint overlooking the dramatic granite spire
• Laguna de los Tres with turquoise glacial waters
• Multiple difficulty levels from easy lakeside walks to challenging mountain ascents

• Los Glaciares National Park & Perito Moreno** – one of Patagonia's most accessible glacier experiences:
• Perito Moreno Glacier – massive advancing glacier with regular dramatic calvings
• Extensive boardwalk system for close-up viewing
• Ice trekking tours walking on the glacier surface with crampons
• Boat tours approaching the glacier wall to see blue ice formations

• Ushuaia & Tierra del Fuego** – the southernmost city in the world:
• Beagle Channel boat cruises with sea lions, penguins, and cormorants
• End of the World Train through Tierra del Fuego National Park
• Gateway to Antarctica expeditions (November–March)
• Hiking, skiing, and unique "end of the world" atmosphere

• Península Valdés** – UNESCO World Heritage site for wildlife watching:
• Southern right whale watching June–December (peak September–November)
• Elephant seal and sea lion colonies
• Magellanic penguin colony at Punta Tombo (over 1 million birds)
• Orca hunting displays March–April

Patagonia requires significant time – most itineraries dedicate 7-14 days to cover major highlights. Distances are vast, and weather can be unpredictable even in summer.

Iguazu Falls straddles the Argentina-Brazil border and ranks among the world's most spectacular waterfalls – 275 individual cascades thundering through subtropical rainforest.

• Devil's Throat (Garganta del Diablo) – the most dramatic section, with walkways directly above the thundering abyss
• Upper and Lower circuits – Argentine side offers close-up walkways and multiple perspectives
• Boat adventures – zodiac rides to the base of the falls, getting soaked in the spray
• Brazilian side – panoramic views (visa required for US citizens)
• Wildlife – toucans, coatis, butterflies, and diverse jungle species
• Full moon tours – special nighttime viewings during full moon (limited availability)

Most visitors spend 1-2 full days exploring both sides of the falls. The Argentine side offers more extensive trails and closer access.

Argentina produces some of the world's finest wines, particularly Malbec, with several distinct wine regions.

• Mendoza** – Argentina's premier wine region:
• Over 1,000 wineries producing world-class Malbec
• Maipú and Luján de Cuyo – traditional regions accessible by bike tours
• Uco Valley – high-altitude vineyards with dramatic Andes backdrop
• Gourmet wine-pairing dinners at prestigious bodegas
• Views of Aconcagua (6,961m), the Americas' highest peak

• Cafayate (Salta)** – specializing in aromatic Torrontés white wine:
• Smaller, more intimate wineries
• Dramatic desert and mountain scenery
• Quebrada de las Conchas scenic drive
• Traditional northwestern Argentine culture

Wine regions offer relaxation after Patagonia's adventures, with 2-4 days ideal for tastings, cycling, and mountain activities.

Argentina's Lake District combines Swiss-style alpine architecture with Patagonian lakes and mountains.

• Bariloche – chocolate shops, Nahuel Huapi lake, year-round resort atmosphere
• Circuito Chico – scenic drive with mountain and lake panoramas
• Cerro Catedral – South America's largest ski resort (June–September)
• Villa La Angostura – charming lakeside town with arrayanes forest
• Seven Lakes Route – spectacular drive connecting northern Patagonia
• Hiking – numerous trails through forests, along lakes, and up peaks

The Lake District works well as a Patagonia entry or exit point, offering beauty without El Chaltén's remoteness.

The Andean northwest offers dramatic desert landscapes, colonial culture, and indigenous traditions.

• Quebrada de Humahuaca – UNESCO site with layered, colorful mountain formations
• Seven Colors Hill (Purmamarca) – striking striped mountain
• Salinas Grandes – vast salt flats at 3,450m elevation
• Salta city – beautiful Spanish colonial architecture
• Train to the Clouds (when operating) – high-altitude railway journey
• Los Cardones National Park – landscapes of giant cacti
• Traditional villages – indigenous Andean culture and markets

The northwest offers a completely different Argentina from Patagonia – high altitude, arid, colorful, and culturally distinct.

Argentina's culture reflects European immigration (especially Italian and Spanish), indigenous heritage, gaucho traditions, and modern sophistication.

Tango originated in Buenos Aires' working-class neighborhoods and has become Argentina's most famous cultural export.

• Tango shows – professional performances ranging from intimate venues to elaborate dinner shows
• Milongas – social dance halls where locals dance traditional tango
• Tango lessons – many schools offer classes for beginners
• Street tango – watch spontaneous performances in San Telmo and La Boca
• Tango museums – learn the dance's history and cultural significance

Even a basic tango lesson adds depth to understanding Argentina's cultural heart.

Gauchos are Argentina's traditional horsemen of the Pampas grasslands, with their own distinct culture.

• Estancia visits – spend a day or night at working ranches
• Horseback riding – explore grasslands on horseback like gauchos
• Asado demonstrations – traditional barbecue cooking over open fire
• Folkloric shows – gaucho music, dance, and horsemanship demonstrations
• Mate sharing – participate in the ritual of sharing herbal tea

Estancias near Buenos Aires or in the Pampas offer authentic gaucho experiences.

Argentine food is famous for beef, Italian influences, and unique regional specialties.

• Asado – traditional barbecue, a social ritual and national dish
• Beef cuts – bife de chorizo, lomo, entraña, and other cuts unavailable elsewhere
• Empanadas – savory pastries with regional variations (meat, cheese, corn)
• Milanesa – breaded meat cutlet, showing Italian influence
• Dulce de leche – sweet milk caramel in desserts, pastries, and spreads
• Provoleta – grilled provolone cheese appetizer
• Malbec wine – Argentina's signature red wine pairs perfectly with beef
• Alfajores – cookie sandwiches with dulce de leche filling
• Choripán – chorizo sausage sandwich, street food staple
• Fernet con Coca – bitter herbal liqueur with Coca-Cola, surprisingly popular

Buenos Aires has evolved into one of the world's great food cities, with multiple restaurants ranked globally.

Argentina's geography encompasses tropical rainforest, Andean peaks, Patagonian wilderness, and Atlantic coast.

The Andes form Argentina's western border with Chile, creating dramatic landscapes.

• Aconcagua (6,961m) – highest peak outside Asia
• Over 20 peaks above 6,000m elevation
• Glaciers throughout Patagonian Andes
• Ski resorts including Las Leñas and Cerro Catedral
• Trekking ranging from day hikes to mountaineering expeditions
• Unique high-altitude wildlife including condors, guanacos, and vicuñas

The Andes provide a spectacular backdrop throughout much of Argentina's western regions.

The Iguazu Falls system ranks among the world's most impressive natural spectacles.

• 275 individual waterfalls spanning 2.7 kilometers
• Devil's Throat – the most dramatic section where 14 falls converge
• 1.7 million liters of water per second during high flow
• Subtropical rainforest ecosystem with diverse wildlife
• Taller than Niagara, wider than Victoria Falls
• UNESCO World Heritage site

The falls are most impressive January–May after rainy season, though spectacular year-round.

Argentina's Patagonian glaciers are among the most accessible in the world.

• Perito Moreno – one of few advancing glaciers globally
• Southern Patagonian Ice Field – third-largest ice field outside polar regions
• Upsala and Spegazzini glaciers accessible by boat
• Glacier trekking opportunities on stable ice
• Ice caves, crevasses, and blue ice formations
• Regular calvings creating dramatic displays

Climate change is affecting glaciers, making current visits particularly significant.

This UNESCO site offers extraordinary wildlife viewing opportunities.

• Southern right whales come to breed June–December
• Over 1 million Magellanic penguins at Punta Tombo
• Massive elephant seal colonies
• Sea lion colonies throughout the peninsula
• Orcas hunting sea lions March–April (rare behavior)
• Over 180 bird species
• Guanacos, maras, and armadillos on land

The wildlife spectacle changes with seasons, with September–November offering the most variety.

Argentina's seasons are opposite the Northern Hemisphere, dramatically affecting travel experiences.

Summer is the best and busiest time for Patagonian travel.

• 15-20 hours of daylight in southern Patagonia
• All trails, lodges, and services fully operational
• Warmest weather (though still cool – 10-20°C in Patagonia)
• Whale watching season continues through December
• Highest prices and largest crowds
• Must book accommodations 6-12 months ahead in El Chaltén and Torres del Paine
• Perfect for glacier viewing, trekking, and wildlife

This is Patagonia's premium season when weather is most stable and everything is accessible.

Fall brings stunning foliage and comfortable conditions.

• Spectacular autumn colors in Lake District (especially April)
• Orca viewing at Península Valdés (March–April only)
• Harvest festivals in Mendoza (Fiesta de la Vendimia in March)
• Pleasant temperatures in Buenos Aires and wine regions
• Fewer tourists than summer with lower prices
• Patagonia services begin closing in May
• Still good weather for trekking in March-April

Fall offers excellent value with beautiful conditions, particularly in wine regions and northern Argentina.

Winter brings skiing and continues whale watching.

• Prime skiing at Cerro Catedral (Bariloche) and Las Leñas
• Peak whale watching season continues (through early December)
• Best weather for Iguazu Falls (less humid, no rain)
• Ideal temperatures for northwest Argentina exploration
• Buenos Aires cultural season in full swing
• Patagonia is cold with limited services (many places closed)
• Lower prices in non-ski areas

Winter is perfect for skiing, whale watching, and visiting the tropical north or Buenos Aires.

Spring brings blooming landscapes and good travel conditions.

• Jacaranda trees bloom in Buenos Aires (November)
• Whale watching peak season (September–November)
• Spring flowers throughout Patagonia
• Pleasant temperatures nationwide
• Lower prices before peak summer season
• Patagonia weather becoming more stable
• Good time for wine regions (harvest ending)

Spring offers a sweet spot of good weather, blooming landscapes, peak whale watching, and moderate prices.

Argentina is an adventure sports paradise with activities across all regions and skill levels.

• Trekking – from day hikes in El Chaltén to multi-day expeditions in remote Patagonia
• Mountaineering – Aconcagua and numerous Andean peaks
• Glacier trekking – walk on Perito Moreno and other glaciers with crampons
• Skiing and snowboarding – world-class resorts in Bariloche and Mendoza
• White-water rafting – Mendoza River and rivers near Bariloche
• Paragliding – tandem flights over lakes and mountains
• Sandboarding – though not as developed as Peru's Huacachina
• Whale watching – close encounters with southern right whales
• Kayaking – among glaciers and in Beagle Channel
• Mountain biking – trails throughout Patagonia and Lake District
• Horseback riding – gaucho-style riding in Pampas and Patagonia
• Rock climbing – world-class routes near El Chaltén

Most adventure activities are well-organized with professional operators and good safety standards.

Most nationalities enjoy visa-free entry to Argentina for tourism:

• US, Canadian, EU, UK, Australian, New Zealand citizens – 90 days visa-free
• Passport validity – must be valid for duration of stay (6 months recommended)
• Return ticket – proof of onward travel may be requested
• No visa required for most tourists staying under 90 days

Argentina is one of South America's easiest countries for entry requirements.

On arrival, expect to: 1. Present passport and complete arrival card 2. State purpose of visit (tourism) and accommodation 3. Receive entry stamp good for 90 days 4. Pass through customs with standard declarations

• Tourist stays can be extended once for additional 90 days
• Apply at immigration office (Dirección Nacional de Migraciones) before current stay expires
• Or simply exit to Uruguay or Chile and re-enter (border run)

Argentina previously charged reciprocity fees to US, Canadian, and Australian citizens but eliminated these fees in 2016. No special entry fees apply.

Argentina has a multi-tiered healthcare system with good quality private care in major cities and variable quality in rural areas.

• Private hospitals in Buenos Aires and major cities offer excellent care with English-speaking doctors
• Public hospitals provide free care but can be overcrowded with long waits
• Pharmacies are abundant and many medications available without prescription
• Payment – private facilities require payment upfront; keep all receipts for insurance

• Routine Care:
• General practitioner visit: AR$15,000–AR$40,000 (US$15–40)
• Specialist consultation: AR$25,000–AR$60,000 (US$25–60)
• Prescription medications: AR$5,000–AR$30,000 (US$5–30)
• Dental cleaning: AR$20,000–AR$50,000 (US$20–50)

• Emergency Care:
• Emergency room visit: AR$50,000–AR$150,000 (US$50–150)
• Overnight hospital stay (private): AR$150,000–AR$400,000 per day (US$150–400)
• Ambulance: AR$30,000–AR$80,000 (US$30–80)

• Specialized Procedures:
• MRI scan: AR$80,000–AR$200,000 (US$80–200)
• CT scan: AR$60,000–AR$150,000 (US$60–150)
• Appendectomy: AR$400,000–AR$1,200,000 (US$400–1,200)
• Treatment for fractures: AR$200,000–AR$800,000 (US$200–800)

• Medical Evacuation:
• Helicopter evacuation from remote Patagonia: US$10,000–50,000
• Air ambulance to North America: US$150,000–300,000
• Commercial flight with medical escort: US$15,000–40,000

• Altitude sickness – if visiting Andes regions above 2,500m
• Traveler's diarrhea – generally less common than other South American countries
• Dengue – risk in northern subtropical regions (Iguazu area)
• Hantavirus – rare but serious in rural Patagonia (transmitted through rodent droppings)
• Hypothermia – risk in Patagonia with sudden weather changes

• Routine vaccines – ensure MMR, tetanus, etc. are current
• Hepatitis A – recommended for all travelers
• Typhoid – for those visiting smaller towns or rural areas
• Yellow fever – recommended for Iguazu Falls region
• Rabies – for adventure travelers or extended rural stays

Major cities with excellent international-standard hospitals: - Buenos Aires – Hospital Alemán, Hospital Italiano, Swiss Medical Center - Mendoza – Hospital Español, Hospital Italiano - Bariloche – Sanatorio San Carlos - Ushuaia – Hospital Regional Ushuaia (limited capacity)

Remote Patagonia has basic clinics only; serious cases require evacuation to larger cities.

• Remote Patagonia – evacuation from El Chaltén or Ushuaia can cost $10,000-50,000
• Adventure activities – trekking, glacier walking, skiing all carry injury risks
• Vast distances – trip interruption can be expensive with long flights
• Variable healthcare – excellent in cities, limited in rural areas
• Weather unpredictability – especially in Patagonia, can cause delays and disruptions

• Medical Coverage:
• Minimum: $50,000
• Recommended: $100,000–250,000
• Premium: $500,000 for extended Patagonia adventures

• Emergency Evacuation:
• Minimum: $100,000
• Recommended: $250,000–500,000 (essential for Patagonia)

• Trip Cancellation/Interruption:
• Based on total trip cost
• Particularly important for expensive Patagonia lodges booked far in advance

• Adventure sports coverage – trekking, glacier walking, skiing, rafting
• No altitude exclusions – some policies exclude coverage above certain elevations
• Helicopter evacuation – specifically from remote trekking areas
• 24/7 assistance – with Spanish language support
• Theft coverage – pickpocketing can occur in Buenos Aires
• Trip delay coverage – Patagonia weather can cause flight delays
• Rental car coverage – if doing self-drive Patagonia or wine country trips

• High-altitude exclusions (some policies exclude above 3,000m or 4,000m)
• Adventure activity exclusions
• Pre-existing condition exclusions (if applicable)
• Alcohol-related exclusions (be aware of limits)

Based on actual claims data, the most frequent claims include:

• Trekking injuries – sprains, falls, exhaustion on Patagonia trails
• Trip delays – weather affecting Patagonia flights, especially in El Calafate and Ushuaia
• Theft – pickpocketing in Buenos Aires tourist areas
• Altitude sickness – especially in Andes regions near Mendoza
• Weather-related interruptions – Patagonia's unpredictable weather
• Skiing injuries – at Cerro Catedral and other resorts
• Medical care for gastrointestinal issues – less common than other South American countries but still occurs

When comparing policies for Argentina, prioritize:

• Robust evacuation coverage – non-negotiable for Patagonia travel
• Adventure activity inclusions – ensure your planned activities are covered
• No altitude restrictions – critical if visiting Andes or high-elevation areas
• Good claims reputation – read reviews of how companies handle claims
• 24/7 multilingual assistance – essential for remote emergencies
• Coverage for trip delays – Patagonia weather is unpredictable

For most visitors combining Buenos Aires, wine regions, and Patagonia, a comprehensive adventure travel policy with strong medical and evacuation coverage is ideal.

Argentina offers an extraordinary combination of cosmopolitan culture, natural wonders, adventure opportunities, world-class wine and cuisine, and dramatic landscapes ranging from subtropical to sub-Antarctic. From the passionate tango of Buenos Aires to the remote wilderness of Patagonia, from thundering Iguazu Falls to massive glaciers, Argentina delivers experiences that stay with you forever.

With thoughtful planning around seasons, vast distances, accommodation booking timelines, and comprehensive travel insurance – particularly for Patagonia's remote areas – you can maximize enjoyment and minimize surprises.

Whether you're watching the Perito Moreno glacier calve massive ice chunks, trekking to the base of Fitz Roy, learning tango in a Buenos Aires milonga, sampling Malbec in Mendoza's vineyard, watching southern right whales breach, or experiencing the end of the world in Ushuaia, Argentina is the kind of destination that exceeds expectations and calls you back.