ALL ABOUT ARGENTINA

ALL ABOUT ARGENTINA

5MINREAD
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5 min read
Overview & Key Highlights

Argentina is a land of breathtaking contrasts, where vibrant urban culture meets the raw, untamed beauty of Patagonia. From the world-class vineyards of Mendoza and the historic streets of Buenos Aires to the thunderous majesty of Iguazú Falls and the glacial wonders of the south, this South American gem offers an unforgettable journey for every type of traveler.

Whether you are seeking the thrill of winter sports at the end of the world, the rich traditions of gaucho heritage, or the culinary delight of a perfect asado, Argentina promises a unique blend of adventure, history, and sophistication. Discover why this diverse nation continues to captivate visitors from across the globe.

Argentine Wine

It is a special treat to drink a glass of wine in the same city in which its grape was grown. Argentina is the sixth largest wine producing country by volume, so there are opportunities abound. You can enjoy an aromatic Torrontes in Salta, a classic Cabernet Sauvignon in the north, or a marvellous Mendoza Malbec in the central region of the country. Most Argentine wineries offer wine tours and tastings.

Rows of vines in an Argentinian vineyard
Argentinian Vineyard

Iguazú Falls

The term "Iguazú" means "great waters" in the Guarani language. The falls were established in 1984 as a Natural World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Along with Nahuel Huapi lake near Bariloche, Iguazú Falls is among the most frequented tourist sites in Argentina, and for good reason. Visitors can enjoy the unparalleled views of the falls along with tours, treks, and water sports in these gigantesque cascades.

Gaucho Culture

Ponies have been a part of Argentine culture since gauchos roamed the expansive fields across the country. Gauchos are the Argentinian cowboys and their culture still reigns proud through Argentinian culture. Whether they are watching polo, going for a gallop, or betting on these majestic animals, Argentinians find great joy in all things equine. As a visitor, you can enjoy these same activities by enrolling in polo lessons, visiting the Hippodrome to watch races, or taking a day trip for a ride through the country in true gaucho territory.

A traditional gaucho at sunset
Gaucho at Sunset

Ushuaia Winter Sports

Ushuaia is located on the southern coast of Isla Grande de Tierra del Fuego and offers abundant opportunities to enjoy its rich culture, history, and natural beauty. Sports enthusiasts can play in the winter wonderlands of Glacier El Martial and Cerro Castor areas and go skiing, sledging, and snowboarding. Nature and wildlife lovers can catch a glimpse of local birds, penguins, seals, and orcas that colonize the islands in the Beagle Channel. Art lovers can take in the Biennial of Contemporary Art at the End of the World, which has been hosted in Ushuaia since 2007.

Shopping in Palermo

Beautiful boutique shops line the streets of Palermo Soho, a hub of the relentlessly creative design district in Buenos Aires. Be prepared for long strolls interrupted by halting stops to gawk at window designs. The shops have everything from high-end shoes and belts, chic skirts, and dresses to glittery custom jewellery and funky jeans. There also seems to be a custom shoe store around every corner in Palermo Soho, all filled with unique designs. Palermo also has dozens of cafes, bars, and restaurants catering to nearly every palate. You won’t go hungry in this part of Argentina.

Street scene in Palermo Soho
Palermo Street Scene

Festivals

A country that always takes an opportunity to celebrate, Argentina has many different kinds of festivals. Buenos Aires is a host to festivals throughout the year including the Buenos Aires International Festival of Independent Film (BAFICI); Buenos Aires Fashion Week (BAFWEEK); La Rural, the nation's two-week farm fair and gaucho festival; and a gay pride parade. There are festivals celebrating art, music, and the tango as well. Jujuy celebrates the “Semana de Jujuy” when the usually quiet city comes alive for a week of partying to celebrate its founding.

Glaciers National Park

In 1981, Los Glaciares National Park was named as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The glacial activities in the park are mainly around two lakes, Argentino and Viedma. At these lakes, you can see spectacular shows of glaciers dumping chunks of ice into the chilly glacial waters below. The park is located in the area known as Austral Andes in Argentina, on the Chilean border. You can take horse rides through the natural beauty or relax at the nearby estancias.

Kayaking in Glaciers National Park
Kayaks in the Glaciers National Park

Steak

Argentina has the world's second highest consumption rate of beef. What makes Argentine steaks so tasty? Many beef producers in Argentina still use the older methods of pasture and grass feeding their cows. This is a more expensive process, but the cows are healthier and the beef is tastier. Make sure you sample an asado for the complete Argentinian experience!

Salta

The city of Salta offers a wealth of experiences from the natural wonders of its geology to the delight of its local foods, to an interesting culture and history. Tourists can enjoy tours through the Calchaquí Valley or venture out to see the multi-colored rock formations and the quiet adobe villages. The Salta region is also known for its delicious wines and traditional fares such as humitas, locro, and empanadas.

Humahuaca Rainbow Mountain near Salta
Humahuaca Rainbow Mountain, near Salta
Claire Dean
Written By

Claire Dean

Travel in South America is a joy to behold. The rich variety of destinations, experiences, landscapes and geography fascinated me so much, that I chose to relocate here, over 20 years ago! The best thing I ever did! Allow me to share my knowledge and passion for Central and South America with you and help you plan your holiday of a lifetime!
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