Argentina Travel Guide

Here are 10 of the most amazing places to visit in the country.

 Iguazu Falls

The Iguazu Falls, located at the junction of the Iguazu and Paraná rivers, divide Argentina and Brazil and comprise one of the world’s most stunning natural wonders. The falls are almost three times wider than Niagara Falls and are surrounded by the verdant vegetation of the Iguazu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The spectacle of 275 individual drops cascading down is an unforgettable experience. The park also offers a variety of activities such as hiking, bird watching, and boat trips that provide an intimate encounter with the falls’ power.

 Buenos Aires

Known as the “Paris of South America,” Buenos Aires merges European grandeur with Latin passion. Here, you’ll find a city of broad boulevards, vibrant street art, and an array of architectural styles from Spanish colonial to French Beaux-Arts.

The city’s neighborhoods each tell a story, from the vibrantly painted houses of La Boca to the upscale boutiques and restaurants of Palermo. Buenos Aires is also the birthplace of tango, and the city pulsates with music from its bustling nightclubs to professional shows in grand theatres.

History lovers can delve into Argentina’s past at numerous museums, while foodies can indulge in famous Argentine steaks paired with world-class wines.

 Perito Moreno Glacier

One of the few advancing glaciers in the world, Perito Moreno offers a dynamic and powerful spectacle of nature. The 30 km long glacier is part of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, the world’s third-largest reserve of fresh water.

Visitors can witness “calving,” the process where chunks of ice break off from the glacier and crash into Lake Argentino, from a series of walkways or take a guided trek on the ice itself. The surrounding park also offers other activities like hiking, sailing, and spotting wildlife, including condors and guanacos.

 Mendoza Wine Region

Nestled in the shadows of the Andes, Mendoza is the heart of Argentina’s wine country and famous for producing some of the world’s best Malbec.

However, it’s not just about wine; Mendoza offers breathtaking scenery, outdoor activities like horseback riding and rafting, and a burgeoning culinary scene. Wine enthusiasts can tour century-old vineyards and state-of-the-art wineries, learning about the winemaking process from grape to glass, and of course, enjoying ample tastings along the way.

 Bariloche

The enchanting city of Bariloche, situated amidst the snow-capped Andes and crystal-clear lakes, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether it’s hiking in the summer, skiing in the winter, or exploring the breathtaking scenery of Nahuel Huapi National Park, Bariloche is a year-round destination.

The city also boasts a rich history of German and Swiss immigration evident in its alpine architecture and renowned chocolate shops. Don’t miss the iconic Ruta de los Siete Lagos (Seven Lakes Route) for some of the most mesmerizing lake views you’ll ever encounter.

 Peninsula Valdes

A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Peninsula Valdes, is one of the most important marine wildlife reserves globally. It’s home to an impressive variety of marine mammals, including sea lions, fur seals, and the southern right whales, which come here to breed between June and December.

The area is also famous for its Magellanic penguin colonies, where visitors can walk among thousands of penguins. Various tours offer the chance to view these creatures in their natural habitat and learn about their behaviors and ecosystems.

 Ushuaia and Tierra del Fuego

Ushuaia, the world’s southernmost city, is a gateway to the remote wilderness of Tierra del Fuego and the icy continent of Antarctica. This windswept archipelago, often referred to as “the End of the World,” offers dramatic landscapes from glacier-carved mountains to subantarctic forests and the serene Beagle Channel.

Activities include trekking, skiing, and even sailing to view sea lions, penguins, and diverse bird species. Ushuaia’s unique location also provides a rich history from its indigenous people to early explorers and penal colony past.

 The Andes and Aconcagua

The Argentine Andes offers endless opportunities for adventure, from the verdant vineyards of Mendoza to the arid high-altitude deserts near Salta. At the center of it all is Mount Aconcagua, the highest mountain outside Asia, and a magnet for mountaineers worldwide.

Even for non-climbers, the Aconcagua Provincial Park is worth a visit for its panoramic views and hiking trails. The region also offers activities like horse riding, rafting, and exploring Incan ruins, combined with breathtaking landscapes at every turn..

 Quebrada de Humahuaca

Quebrada de Humahuaca, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a deep valley carved out by the Rio Grande and adorned with stunning multicolored rock formations. This geological marvel has been used as a caravan road for over 10,000 years and is rich in history and culture, with numerous pre-Columbian archaeological sites.

The small towns scattered along the valley, such as Purmamarca, Tilcara, and Humahuaca, offer vibrant local markets, colonial architecture, and opportunities to learn about indigenous cultures.

 The Pampas and Gauchos

The vast plains of the Pampas is the home of the gaucho, the legendary Argentine cowboy, and the heartland of Argentina’s beef production. Visitors can stay on traditional estancias, enjoying horseback riding, watching gauchos at work, and partaking in asado, a traditional barbecue.

This is not just about experiencing the cowboy life but also the wildlife. The region is home to various animals like capybaras, marsh deer, and over 200 species of birds, making it a hotspot for nature enthusiasts.