Overview of Argentina
Taking over almost the entire bottom half of South America is the vibrant and flavourful country of Argentina. In a place where you can experience the supple Atlantic Ocean beaches, the largest ice cap outside of Antarctica and Greenland, one of the world’s most popular (and luxurious) waterfalls, and the highest mountain peak in South America, it’s hard to make a short visit to this country. With so much to see and so much to do, you might find yourself hopping from town to town trying to fit it all in.
Top Things to See and Do
Whale watch in Puerto Madryn
Puerto Madryn is home to the beautiful nature reserve called Peninsula Valdis and it is also a prime spot for whale watching. Whales can be seen in these waters from June through December and there are countless tours that will take you out to see these majestic creatures up close. If you are in Puerto Madryn in September or October, then you’ll likely see hordes of elephant seals along the shores as well, basking in the sunlight.
Party in Buenos Aires
In the city that seemingly never sleeps, there is always a reason to celebrate and party. The city itself is a heady mixture of cosmopolitan lifestyles and Argentine culture where visitors to the city will immediately fall in love with the lively, bustling hotspot of the country. Modern night clubs and old-fashioned tango halls share neighbourhoods and local restaurants and cafes are always packed and busy late into the night.
Ski in the Andes
When the temperatures dip and the snow starts falling, the eastern slopes of the Andes call to winter sports lovers. May through September seeing the Andes’ slopes full of snow bunnies looking to slice through fresh powder and work their way down the hills. Bariloche is the most established and maintained ski destination in Argentina full of slopes just begging to be conquered.
Visit Iguazu Falls
Earning its name from the Guarani Indian word meaning “great waters”, Iguazu Falls is a magnificent sight to behold. Water tumbles and falls over the cliffs from an incredible 70m at the Garganta del Diablo (Devil’s Throat) amidst a seemingly untouched jungle. The Iguazu National Park is home to more than 2,000 species of flora and 400 different species of birds, making your journey to the Falls sure to be full of wildlife sightings.
Explore the Lake District
This is the best of the best for nature lovers, adventurers, and tourists looking to get out of a big city. There are crystal clear glacial lakes, towering mountain peaks and dense forests to navigate and discover. Argentina’s Lake District is the ideal spot for those travellers who are eager to try adrenaline-filled activities like river rafting, hiking, kitesurfing, skiing and more.
Unwind with Wine in Mendoza
Mendoza is one of the key wine-producing regions in Argentina and this is where you can taste some of the very best wine and learn about winemaking heritage from the experts. Stop by any of the bodegas (wineries) and be treated to tasty drinks and out-of-this-world scenery. Clos de Chacras is a perennial favourite for tourists visiting Mendoza as its cellar is over 100 years old and there is a beautiful restaurant on the winery’s land.
Seasonality
Argentina is a massive country with a diverse number of landscapes, which can only mean one thing when it comes to weather: a wide variety of it. There is plenty of heat and extensive rainy seasons in the subtropical Chaco region to the north, mild and downright pleasant temperatures in central Pampas and freezing cold in the sub-Antarctic near the Patagonia Sea in the south. Like Australia, Argentina’s seasons are reversed from the northern hemisphere’s.
If you are looking to visit Buenos Aires, spring is the best time for you to visit (September – November). You’ll be treated to blooming jacarandas and cool temperatures. Summers in Buenos Aires are stiflingly hot and humid.
Mendoza and Cordoba and the Lake District are best seen in the fall, when the leaves change colour and create a spectacular display. Crowds are also smaller at this time and temperatures are comfortable and mild.
If you are hoping to explore Patagonia, head there in the summer when the weather is milder and there are more services available to adventurers.
If you are on a budget, avoid travelling anywhere in Argentina during January, February and July as these are the most expensive travel months.
Travel Tips
- Argentina is probably the safest country in Latin America for tourists. That isn’t to say crime is non-existent, but with a little common sense and attention, Argentina’s big cities are as safe as London, Paris or NYC.
- Tap water is generally unsafe to drink in Argentina. To purify effectively, boil water vigorously for at least a minute.
- If you are travelling from Australia, you will not need a visa to visit Argentina, as long as your visit is under 90 days. Even still, you can renew your tourist card for an additional 90 days.
As with any country, erring on the side of caution is always recommended. If you’re headed overseas to Argentina, have the peace of mind that comes with booking youGo travel insurance to provide coverage for any unforeseen events.