Argentina is a vast and diverse country, with a rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and a vibrant city scene. From the buzzing streets of Buenos Aires to the rugged terrain of Patagonia, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in Argentina.
In this guide, we’ll take a detailed look at some of the must-see places in Argentina and the best ways to explore them.
- Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires is the cultural capital of Argentina and one of the most exciting cities in South America. With its European-style architecture, bustling streets, and vibrant nightlife, Buenos Aires is a city that never sleeps.
Some of the must-see attractions in Buenos Aires include the colorful La Boca neighborhood, the historic Recoleta Cemetery, and the famous Teatro Colon opera house. Foodies will love exploring the city’s many markets and trying local delicacies like empanadas and chimichurri.
To make the most of your time in Buenos Aires, consider taking a walking tour of the city or a bike tour to explore the different neighborhoods. You could also take a tango lesson or catch a live tango show to experience the city’s most famous dance.
- Iguazu Falls
Located on the border between Argentina and Brazil, Iguazu Falls is one of the most stunning natural wonders in the world. The falls consist of 275 individual waterfalls spread over 1.7 miles and offer breathtaking views and a thrilling experience.
Visitors can explore the falls from both the Argentine and Brazilian sides, but many people say that the Argentine side offers a more immersive experience. There are several walking trails that allow visitors to get up close to the falls, including the Garganta del Diablo (Devil’s Throat) trail, which offers spectacular views from a suspended walkway.
To get the most out of your visit to Iguazu Falls, consider staying at one of the lodges in the nearby jungle, which will allow you to explore the area at your leisure and experience the local flora and fauna.
- Mendoza
Located in the heart of Argentina’s wine country, Mendoza is a must-visit destination for wine lovers. The region is known for its Malbec wines, which are some of the best in the world, and there are hundreds of wineries to explore.
Visitors to Mendoza can take a bike tour of the wineries, which will allow them to sample the local wines and enjoy the stunning scenery at the same time. There are also several hiking trails in the area, including the famous Aconcagua trail, which offers stunning views of the Andes.
In addition to the wineries, Mendoza also has a rich cultural scene, with several museums and galleries to explore. Foodies will also love the local cuisine, which features dishes like asado (barbecue) and empanadas.
- Patagonia
If you’re looking for adventure and breathtaking scenery, Patagonia is the place to be. This vast region, which spans both Argentina and Chile, is home to some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the world, including glaciers, mountains, and lakes.
Some of the must-see attractions in Argentine Patagonia include Los Glaciares National Park, which is home to the famous Perito Moreno Glacier, and Tierra del Fuego, the southernmost point in South America. Visitors to Patagonia can go hiking, kayaking, or horseback riding to explore the rugged terrain and experience the local wildlife.
To get the most out of your visit to Patagonia, consider taking a guided tour or joining a small-group adventure tour. This will allow you to experience the region’s beauty and adventure while also ensuring your safety.
- Salta
Located in the northwest of Argentina, Salta is a city with a rich colonial history and stunning natural scenery. The city is known for its beautiful architecture, lively markets, and delicious cuisine.
One of the highlights of a visit to Salta is the Train to the Clouds, a historic railway that takes visitors on a breathtaking journey through the Andes Mountains. The train ride offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and is a great way to experience the region’s beauty.
In addition to the Train to the Clouds, visitors to Salta can explore the city’s many museums and galleries, including the MAAM (Museum of High Altitude Archaeology) which houses the mummies of three Inca children found at the top of the Llullaillaco volcano. Foodies will also love the local cuisine, which features dishes like empanadas, humitas, and locro.
- Ushuaia
Known as the “End of the World,” Ushuaia is the southernmost city in the world and the gateway to Antarctica. The city is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and the Beagle Channel.
Visitors to Ushuaia can take a boat tour of the Beagle Channel, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and the opportunity to spot local wildlife like seals, sea lions, and penguins. There are also several hiking trails in the area, including the famous Tierra del Fuego National Park, which offers stunning views of the Andes Mountains and the local wildlife.
In addition to the natural attractions, Ushuaia also has a rich cultural scene, with several museums and galleries to explore. Foodies will also love the local cuisine, which features dishes like king crab and lamb.
- Bariloche
Located in the Argentine Andes, Bariloche is a picturesque mountain town known for its stunning natural scenery and outdoor adventure activities. The town is surrounded by snow-capped peaks, pristine lakes, and dense forests, making it a popular destination for hiking, skiing, and kayaking.
Visitors to Bariloche can take a scenic drive along the Circuito Chico, a route that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes, including the famous Lake Nahuel Huapi. There are also several hiking trails in the area, including the famous Refugio Frey trail, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
In addition to the outdoor activities, Bariloche also has a vibrant cultural scene, with several museums and galleries to explore. Foodies will also love the local cuisine, which features dishes like trout and wild boar.
- Peninsula Valdes
Located on the east coast of Argentina, the Peninsula Valdes is a nature reserve that is home to a variety of marine wildlife, including whales, dolphins, and sea lions. The reserve also has several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
One of the highlights of a visit to the Peninsula Valdes is the opportunity to go whale watching. The area is home to several species of whales, including the southern right whale, which can be seen from June to December. Visitors can also go snorkeling with sea lions or take a boat tour of the surrounding waters.
To get the most out of your visit to the Peninsula Valdes, consider staying at one of the lodges in the area, which will allow you to explore the reserve at your leisure and experience the local flora and fauna.
Argentina is a country with a rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. From the bustling streets of Buenos Aires to the rugged terrain of Patagonia, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in Argentina. By exploring some of the must-see places in the country and taking advantage of the many outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and local cuisine, visitors can have an unforgettable experience in Argentina. To make the most of your trip, it’s a good idea to plan ahead and consider hiring a local guide or tour operator who can provide insights and recommendations for exploring the country.
With its diverse range of attractions and experiences, Argentina truly has something for everyone. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or simply looking for an adventure, there’s no doubt that a trip to Argentina will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. So pack your bags and get ready to explore all that this amazing country has to offer!
