WHERE TO VISIT IN ARGENTINA

 

 Argentina boasts impressive landscapes and stunning destinations, and here is a list of all the must-visit places for your trip. Argentina is a country with incredibly varied landscapes, from the Andes in the west to frozen Antarctic landscapes of Patagonia in the south. From the quaint vineyards of Mendoza and Cafayate to the bustling metropolises of Buenos Aires and Cordoba, …Argentina has it all! Argentina is one of the largest countries in South America, as well as one of the most visited, welcoming around 7 million tourists a year. There are a number of things to do and places to visit in Argentina, and here is an introduction to some of the best destinations to explore during your trip to the country.

 

Perito Moreno Glacier Arch

 

Buenos Aires

The colorful and chic capital of Argentina is probably your first stop in the country and the main destination of most international flights. Buenos Aires is the political, cultural, and economic center of the nation, and home to some of the most beloved tourist attractions in Argentina. Spend some time learning authentic Argentinian tango dancing, or walk around the bohemian La Boca neighborhood with its painters and photographers, as well as street murals. 
Don’t forget to also visit the main attractions in the city such as Plaza de Mayo, surrounded by stunning colonial architecture and now with much of the area pedestrianized. Perhaps its most famous building is Casa Rosada, which is the house of government and as you have guessed is pink! Other highlights in Buenos Aires include the Recoleta Cemetery, the San Telmo market walking down the streets of Recoleta, and watching a tango show at a milonga.

Iguazu Falls

In the far northern province of Misiones, you will find one of the most famous places in Argentina and one of the 7 Natural Wonders of the World- Iguazu Falls. These giant cascades are an UNESCO World Heritage Site, named after the Iguazu River on which they are found.  This natural border between Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay attracts thousands of visitors every year and the Argentine side of the Iguazu Falls features many great attractions, including the Devil’s Throat Trail, from where you’ll see the most impressive views of the falls from above; it’s definitely one of the unmissable things to see in Argentina!

 

Iguazu Falls

 

El Calafate (Perito Moreno Glacier)

 

El Calafate is a city in Argentina’s Santa Cruz Province, right on the border with Chile, and it’s the heartland of the vast, untouched landscape of Patagonia. The main attraction is the Perito Moreno Glacier, named after Francisco Moreno, a pioneer who studied the region and helped defend it during border conflicts with neighboring Chile. This glacier is notable for several reasons, besides its natural beauty and stunning surroundings. Perito Moreno one of the few glaciers in the world that is still in equilibrium, meaning it gains as much mass as it loses each year and it is the third-largest supply of fresh water in the world. Perito Moreno is a safe and accessible glacier where you can head out for ice hikes, as well as viewings from the water.  You can even take a kayak tour around the area. There are many other activities you can enjoy in Calafate, such as fishing, horse riding, spending the day at a Hacienda, or visiting La Leona Petrified Forest and the Walichu Caves.

 

El Chalten

This charming village is known as the National Capital of Trekking. It is visited by trekking enthusiasts from all over the world. El Chalten is located three hours away from Calafate, so after spending a day at the Perito Moreno Glacier you hang out in this stunning area, perfect for trekking. The rugged nature of the region, such as Chorrillo del Salto or the Condor Viewpoint are great day treks and If you’re up for longer and more challenging treks, check out Laguna Torre or Pliegue Tumbado.

 

Lake Torre, El Chalten

 

Ushuaia

 

To get a sense of the contrast that Argentina has to offer, visit the southernmost city of the country, Ushuaia, which serves as the capital of the Patagonian province of Tierra Del Fuego. It’s also usually referred to as the ‘End of the World’. You can begin your visit with a ride on the End of the World Train which takes you into Tierra Del Fuego National Park. Alternatively, take a boat or catamaran through the Beagle Channel to the local islands, or visit the penguin colony on a guided hike. The city also offers museums, viewpoints, and delicious eateries, all surrounded by some of the most windswept and dramatic scenery in the world.

 

Peninsula Valdes

As part of your Argentina adventure don’t miss the Valdes Peninsula, a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its whale sightings. It’s a key location in many whales’ migration patterns. The area features countless bays, lagoons and coves to explore. It’s considered a less-trodden path for those who want to explore wildlife and natural scenery away from the more crowded national parks and reserves. Whale watching is the main activity in Peninsula Valdes, where the water is packed with many nutrients that make it a key feeding stop for migrating whales. The best time to see the whales is between May and December, but you can also spot orcas from late September to early April. If you visit during the whale watching off-season, you can still enjoy the sights of other amazing wildlife, from Magellan penguins to elephant seals, sea lions, dolphins, and countless species of seabirds.

 

Valdes Peninsula whale 

 

Bariloche

Bariloche is one of the most beautiful places in Argentina. Located in the Rio Negro province, it could be considered the northernmost area of Patagonia, so you can combine this city with your trip to southern Argentina. Highlights in the area are the Seven Lakes Road, a drivable route of about 161 km from Bariloche to San Martin de Los Andes which passes by 7 astonishing lakes. Once in San Martin de Los Andes, you can take a stroll around Plaza San Martin and the local artisan craft market, while also taking in street performers and amazing street food carts. Close to Bariloche is also Villa La Angostura, which offers a ski resort in winter, and sailing, kayaking and more on Lake Nahuel Huapi in the warm months. Day trips to the surrounding hills are also mandatory while in Bariloche; you won’t believe the views you get from the top! If you’re a keen skier and visit during the winter, Cerro Catedral should be on your list.

Mendoza

Argentina is famous for its excellent wine, and is the sixth-largest wine producer in the world. Mendoza is the beating heart of Argentina’s wine region, home to over a thousand wineries, especially producing red wines. Take a bike tour around the vineyards to experience Malbec and other varieties, with the stunning Andes mountains as your backdrop. You can take horseback rides to ride across the Andes mountains to see the Uco Valley and Quebrada del Condor, home to the impressive condors.

 

Mendoza, Autumn Vineyard

 

Salta and Jujuy

 

Salta and Jujuy provinces are found in the north-western part of Argentina, close to the borders with Chile and Bolivia. They are particularly known for the Great Salt Flats, the arid and rugged landscape, and for being home to the world’s highest-altitude vineyards around Salta. You can begin your exploration of Salta City, where you’ll find local museums, the Cathedral of Salta along with many other historic churches, and delicious delicacies which are especially tasty for those who like spicier food. Outside of Salta, is the Cafayate wine region also called the “Tuscany of Argentina”, the Spanish colonial town of Cachi, and of course Las Salinas, the impressive salt flats. In Jujuy, is the natural highlight is the Hill of Seven Colors in Purmamarca. If you do visit, be sure to catch the morning view, which offers the best light. 

 

Ibera Wetlands

One of Argentina´s hotspots for visitors that often goes unnoticed is the Ibera Wetlands/ Esteros del Ibera. This stunning destination is in the far northeast of the country. The swamps, lakes, bogs and lagoons make up one of the most important and best-preserved natural ecosystems in the world.  Ibera Wetlands is blessed with remarkable flora and fauna, from adorable capybaras, otters and deer, to the more spine-tingling anacondas and alligators. The Ibera Wetlands are also home to 350 species of birds. You can rent kayaks or take boat tours around the wetlands. While the kayaks are considerably cheaper than taking a boat, your view of the wildlife will be more limited, so I highly recommend spending on a boat tour to make the most of your visit.
 

Esteros del Ibera