Argentina Tours & Vacations
Leafy vineyards, eclectic galleries, char-grilled barbecue evenings and epic waterfalls make for one big tantalizing adventure.
From saucy cities brimming with bars to monster waterfalls and all the steak you can eat, Argentina promises (and delivers) good times to all who come. Drink to a good drop in Mendoza, be blown away by the aquatic thundering of Iguazu Falls, take a gondola up a mountain in Salta, or lose yourself to some hip shakin’ nights in the bars of Buenos Aires all the way to Rio de Janeiro. It’s hard to imagine the continent of South America (or the world) without that flaming wedge known as Argentina.
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Argentina at a glance
CAPITAL CITY
Buenos Aires (population 15.5 million)
POPULATION
46 million
CURRENCY
Argentine Peso (ARS)
LANGUAGE
Spanish
TIME ZONE
(GMT-03:00) Buenos Aires
CALLING CODE
+54
ELECTRICITY
Type C (European 2-pin) Type I (Australian/New Zealand & Chinese/Argentine 2/3-pin)
Learn more about Argentina
Food and drink
Like many other aspects of Argentinian culture, its cuisine has been heavily influenced by European immigration. Mix Spanish and Italian flavors with Argentina's top quality (and affordable!) beef and dairy products, and you have a combination worth jumping on that long-haul flight for. Check our guide on all things food in South America.
It’s important to keep in mind that dinner is eaten late in Argentina. Most restaurants close in the afternoon and do not reopen until 8 pm, though locals typically don't actually begin dinner until 9 or 10 pm.
Here are some must-try dishes and drinks in Argentina:
1. Asado
With Spanish origins, asado describes succulent barbequed meat, slow-cooked on a metal frame over an open fire or a bed of hardwood charcoal. In Argentina, asado is equal parts a dish and a social gathering – both of which you'll want to experience.
2. Provoleta
Soft provolone cheese is grilled in a skillet and topped with oregano, chili flakes or other herbs. A typical asado starter, provoleta is crisp on the outside, warm and gooey on the inside and delicious all around.
3. Chimichurri
A piquant combination of diced garlic, chopped parsley and oregano, olive oil and vinegar, this classic Argentinean condiment is the quintessential accompaniment to grilled meat.
4. Malbec wine
Argentina has one of the world’s most renowned wine regions. Malbecs from the wineries of Mendoza are famous around the world (and happen to pair well with steak), though other provinces also produce quality wines, including Torrontes from Cafayate and Syrahs from San Juan.
5. Alfajores
Argentina’s favorite sweet biscuit. Take two round shortbreads, fill them with dulce de leche (a decadent caramel made from condensed milk) coat them in chocolate... et voila.
6. Helado
Argentineans take ice cream seriously. Don't miss helado de dulce de leche, the national flavor of Argentina.
7. Dulce de leche
Condensed milk is slowly reduced and sweetened to create a thick, sticky caramel. Find it in alfajores (a crumbly biscuit sandwich filled with dulce de leche), dessert empanadas, drizzled on ice cream or just eat it by the spoonful!
8. Yerba maté
This is Argentina's national drink. A caffeine-rich concoction of chopped and dried yerba maté is prepared in a gourd (maté) and drunk through a silver straw (bombilla). It's rich in antioxidants and polyphenols and has long been used by Indigenous people in South America.
Culture and customs
Argentinian culture and customs are influenced by the waves of European immigration that landed here in the 1880s and during the two World Wars. As a result of immigration, parts of the country feel notably more ‘European’ than other areas of South America.
Argentinians are famously affectionate, loud, passionate about football, and big fans of a good plate of homemade spaghetti. They have strong ties with family and friends, and the major religion is Catholicism.
As a general guide, these are some key things you should know about Argentina:
1. A kiss on the cheek is the most common way of greeting someone
Particularly a friend, but it’s not uncommon between strangers, especially if being introduced by a mutual friend. This is true whether it’s female on female, female on male or male on male.
2. If you befriend someone, expect hugs
Expect a farewell hug and a greeting hug thereafter. Again, this is true whether it’s female on female, female on male or male on male.
3. Expect to be late
Being late for social or cultural events is almost fashionable in Argentina, but it can be an annoyance for travelers.
4. Siesta time is still common
Siestas are particularly popular in provinces such as Mendoza, San Juan, Salta. Shops may close from 1pm to 4pm and reopen until around 8-9pm.
5. Dinner is late
Dinner with locals can be very late. Having dinner at 9pm, 10pm and 11pm is perfectly normal and accepted in Argentina, but can cause a few rumbling tummies with travelers. The best thing to do is keep some snacks with you and try and fall into the local pattern.
6. Nightlife is well and truly nightlife
Pubs, clubs and events don’t kick off until 1-2am…no kidding!
7. The majority of Argentinians are Catholic
Between 70-80% of the population are Catholic, and you should be respectful when visiting churches, cathedrals and religious events. The dress code at religious sites is quite relaxed and no one will get in trouble for attending mass in t-shirts, shorts and thongs. However, closed shoes and trousers are preferred. Swimwear is a big no-no and it can be very offensive to the locals.
8. Avoid talking about the Falkland Islands War
Talking about the Falkland Islands war still evokes raw emotions amongst Argentinians and it's well-advised not to raise the topic with people you don’t know.
Geography and environment
Bordered by Chile, Bolivia, Paraguay, Brazil and Uruguay, Argentina is South America's second-largest country. With a vast range of natural environments, traveling in Argentina presents a revolving door of terrain and landscapes.
From giant glaciers, gushing waterfalls and snow-topped granite pillars of Patagonia to the green grasslands of the Pampas (not to mention the lofty Andes of the north to the steamy wetlands of the north-east), Argentina contains a wealth of biodiversity.
Chile and Argentina both stake a claim over Patagonia. Check out our guide to help you decide which South American country to visit.
Top 5 tango spots in Argentina
1. Confiteria Ideal
Be charmed by the grand building, old waiters and genuine tango classes that this Buenos Aires institution has been producing for more than 100 years. It might be a bit rough around the edges, but authenticity is guaranteed in this historic gem.
2. Barrancas de Belgrano
On the weekends, head to this leafy park at dusk to see unpretentious locals tango as the sun sets. Try out your tango steps, mix and mingle with Argentines and tourists, and enjoy the casual, fun vibe that proliferates under the park's gazebo.
3. Plaza Dorrego
This relaxed San Telmo favorite is a top spot for alfresco people-watching, tango viewing, wine drinking and socializing.
4. La Catedral
For a slice of old Argentina, head to this bewitching warehouse of kitsch where you can learn the art of tango with locals amid walls of old posters and a giant glowing, red heart. Lessons are taught in Spanish, and while the dancers here may not be technically great, their passion and love of tango are unquestionable.
5. Caminito
Purists may dismiss La Boca's showy street performers as 'tacky tangoists', but the colorful streets, flamboyant moves and suave outfits do have a bit of flair and provide quintessential Buenos Aires photo ops.
Shopping
Many stores in Argentina allow travelers to shop tax-free. Look for a blue and white ‘Tax Free’ sign in store windows and make sure to ask for a Global Blue refund form when making your purchase. Get this form validated by a customs official at the airport when you're leaving the country (they’ll want to see the item and receipt as well), then take it to the Global Blue refund office to get your money back.
It’s a bit of a lengthy process, but it might be worth the effort depending on how much shopping you do.
Keep in mind that siesta is still common in some parts of Argentina. Many stores will close for a few hours in the afternoon and reopening times can be unpredictable.
Things to buy in Argentina
1. Leather goods
Leather goods are normally top of the shopping list for every traveler – and rightly so! The quality of leather products is excellent and prices can be significantly cheaper than at home. The most popular items are jackets, handbags, shoes, boots and belts. A word of warning though – be wary of cheap imitations!
2. Mate cup set
A popular tourist shop item, cups may be sold on their own with a straw, or as a set with loose-leaf mate as well. Quality and design can vary, so it pays to shop around.
3. Wine
A good bottle of Argentina’s famed Malbec can be bought for less than USD 10.
Festivals and events
Argentinians are a lively bunch and like to party. Below are four of the biggest festivals of the year.
1. Buenos Aires Tango Festival - August
Passion oozes from Buenos Aires’ streets as tango fills the city each August. Open-air milongas (dances), film screenings, dance classes and competitions featuring world-class dancers are all part of this sizzling two-week event.
2. Fiesta de la Vendimia (Grape Harvest Festival) - March
This week-long celebration kicks off Mendoza’s grape-picking season, and it's a barrel of fun! The festival features parades, folkloric events and a grand coronation, as hopefuls vie to be chosen as the new Harvest Queen.
3. Carnaval (or Carnival) - February/March
Huge crowds turn up ready to have a good time for carnival celebrations in cities across Argentina. Like in Brazil, parades are a cacophony of colors, featuring feathered and sequined costumes and elaborate floats. Taking place right before Ash Wednesday, the best parties are in Gualeguay-chu and Corrientes.
4. Dia de la Tradicion (Day of Tradition) - November
Argentina’s beret-clad, nomadic cowboys, otherwise known as gauchos, are something of a national symbol. Each year on November 10th, they are celebrated with horsemanship shows, folk music, dancing, tons of barbequed meat and a big gaucho parade in San Antonio de Areco, the symbolic center of gaucho culture.
Public holidays that may impact travel include:
Carnival
- Day of Remembrance for Truth and Justice
Veterans and Fallen of the Malvinas War Day
Labor Day
National Day
Flag Day
Independence Day
San Martin Day
Respect for Cultural Diversity Day
Day of National Sovereignty
Immaculate Conception
Please note dates of Argentina's public holidays may vary
Must-see cities in Argentina
1. Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires is an elegant metropolis of colorful buildings, charming boulevards and cobbled laneways that lead to huge street murals. This city offers something for everyone from traditional cafe bars to trendy closed-door restaurants, speakeasy bars to tango clubs, and mercados to shopping malls.
Discover the best of Argentina, Uruguay & Brazil
2. Ushuaia
Welcome to the southernmost city in the world! Ushuaia is also the gateway to the seventh continent, AKA Antarctica. After taking in the spectacular sights of Tierra del Fuego National Park, wander the craft markets or feast on delicious Fuegian cuisine
Embark on the ultimate adventure on our 11 day Best of Antarctica trip
3. Mendoza
With leafy streets and direct access to one of the world's best wine regions, Mendoza has a more relaxed vibe than Buenos Aires. Indulge in the city's brilliant food scene or venture a little further to enjoy a glass of wine while the sun sets over the Andean mountain range.
Further reading
Title | Author |
|---|---|
Needle in a Haystack | Ernesto Mallo |
The Buenos Aires Broken Hearts Club | Jessica Morrison |
Long After Midnight at the Nien Bien | Brian Winter |
The Tao of Tango | Johanna Siegmann |
Santa Evita | Tomas Eloy Martinez |
Far Away and Long Ago: A Childhood in Argentina | W. H Hudson |
On Argentina | Jorge Luis Borges |
Argentina travel FAQs
Spanning over 2485 miles from its subtropical north to its subpolar south, the climate in Argentina is as diverse as its landscapes. Summer (December to February) is the best time to visit Patagonia as the weather is mild and hiking trails are accessible.
In contrast, Buenos Aires can be very hot, humid and busy in summer, so the fall (March to May) and spring (September to November) may be better if you don't enjoy the heat or want to ditch the crowds.
The fall is also a stunning time of year in Patagonia and Mendoza when golden colors dominate the landscape.
Iguazu Falls is spectacular all year, but it's a sight to behold in the wet season from December to March when monsoon rains create even more powerful cascades.
If you want to do an Antarctica cruise from Ushuaia, the world's southernmost city, the season runs from November to March when temperatures rise and sea ice melts enough to enable access for cruise ships.
Most travelers do not need a visa to enter Argentina. This includes visitors from Australia, New Zealand, the United States, Canada, the UK, Ireland and most other Western European countries.
Visa-exempt travelers will usually receive an entry stamp valid for 90 days on arrival. Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of entry into Argentina.
The page is for general information only and may be subject to change. It is your responsibility to obtain relevant visa and travel information required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your trip. You should confirm these with the relevant embassies and/or consulates.
Last updated: 30/11/2023
It is customary to tip about 10% at bars and restaurants. Some restaurants will add a ‘cover charge’ to your bill, but a tip is still expected in addition to this.
Internet is easy to access in cafes, bars, restaurants and hotels in large cities and towns, but it may be limited in rural and remote areas.
Cell phone coverage is very good in Argentina’s cities, but may not be available in rural and mountainous areas. Ensure global roaming is activated with your service provider before leaving home.
Western-style flushable toilets are the norm in Argentina. It’s a good idea to carry your own toilet paper and hand sanitizer, as they are not always provided. Some hotels and restaurants might have signs asking you to not flush toilet paper – the toilets are modern but the plumbing is not and clogs easily.
Tap water is safe to drink in Argentina unless otherwise marked. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water and fill a reusable bottle instead.
Major credit cards are widely accepted in Argentina’s large cities and towns, but may not be accepted in small towns and rural areas. Make sure to carry enough cash when visiting these parts in case credit cards are not an option.
ATMs are widely available in larger cities but are less common in small villages or rural areas. Make sure you have enough cash before leaving urban areas.
Visit your doctor or travel clinic for advice and make sure to schedule vaccinations 4-6 weeks before your departure date, as some require time to become effective.
As a whole, Argentina is a welcoming destination for LGBTQIA+ travelers. In 2010, the country became the first Latin American nation to legalize same-sex marriage and Buenos Aires hosts the largest annual gay pride parade in South America.
A number of hotels, B&Bs, bars and nightclubs catering to the LGBTQIA+ community can be found in Buenos Aires as well. Though parts of the country, particularly smaller towns, are less tolerant. When in doubt, use discretion outside of large cities.
For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting Equaldex or ILGA before you travel.
Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.
For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance
From Australia?
Go to: Smart Traveller
From Canada?
Go to: Canada Travel Information
From the UK?
Go to: UK Foreign Travel Advice
From New Zealand?
Go to: Safe Travel
From the US?
Go to: US Department of State
The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.
Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners, Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.
Eden Reforestation Projects
Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe.
Find out more or make a donation
World Bicycle Relief
World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilize school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most.
Find out more or make a donation