Argentinais a fascinating country of contrasts. It's made up of amultitude of landscapes, from arid valleys to glaciers. It's also a vast territory with a rich cultural identity, where the locals love to get in touch with visitors and help them discover everything that makes Argentina a land you want to explore from end to end. Whether you're a fan of big, bustling cities, good food and wine or the great outdoors, there's plenty to keep travelers of all backgrounds happy, and that's why Argentina is a country not to be missed under any circumstances. Here are the must-sees.
1. Buenos Aires, the colorful capital
It's impossible to visit Argentina without stopping off in its stunning capital, Buenos Aires. In this huge, dynamic metropolis, you'll love strolling through its different neighborhoods, whose architecture, a legacy of the colonial era, is reminiscent of European cities such as Paris, Naples and Madrid. A visit tothe Plaza de Mayo is a must, followed by atour of the most beautiful monuments, such as the Casa Rosada and the Teatro Colón. In the Boca district, you'll find colorful facades, art galleries and trendy boutiques. If you're looking for something a little greener, take a stroll through the Japanese gardens, the largest outside Japan. Then, in the evening, head for the San Telmo district, the birthplace of tango, for some live entertainment. Buenos Aires is a fascinating fusion of passion and culture, which makes it a destination of choice for couples.
2. What to do in Argentina A trip to Iguazú Falls
Situated on the border between Argentina and Brazil, the 275 waterfalls set amid lush vegetation are among the most spectacular in the world. To see them, you need to go to the Iguazú National Park, where beautiful walks have been laid out around what are considered the most beautiful waterfalls in the world. Beyond this impressive element of nature, don't hesitate to take the trails that lead into the heart of the rainforest. It's home to some incredible flora and fauna. If you're lucky and open your eyes wide, you may even catch a glimpse of animals such as birds, monkeys and anteaters.
3. Hiking in the Parque Nacional del Fuego
Anyone visiting Ushuaïa should take the time to visit the Parc National del Fuego, for the sheer feeling of being at the end of the world. But the park offers so much more, includingthe chance to walk along picturesque Patagonian lakes, rivers and lagoons that flow into the famous Beagle Channel. Once you've passed Mount Susana, you can take time to admire the old prison, now used as a railway station. Later, you arrive in the valley towards Ensenada Bay, from where you can admire the islands of Estorbo and Redonda. In the distance, you can see the snow-capped peaks of Mount Sampaio in Chile. Those who still have the strength to hike can explore the banks of the Lapataia River and Lake Roca. In the Parc National del Fuego, the natural elements are splendid and the scenery breathtakingly beautiful.
4. What to do in Argentina A road trip on Route 40
Route 40 is the equivalent of Route 66 in the United States, and is one of the most beautiful roads in the world. Running parallel to the Andes, it starts at the Bolivian border and crosses 20 national parks, 18 rivers and at least as many magnificent landscapes to reach the extreme south of the country. Over a distance of 5,000 km, it's a wonderful way to discover the great variety of Argentine landscapes. It's also an ideal route for visiting the main national parks. From the Calchaqui valleys to the lake district at the foot of the Andes, the route takes you through some of the most splendid landscapes in the world. For the adventurous, Route 40 is a must, and you'll need to bring several types of clothing, as temperatures vary considerably from north to south.
5. Los Glaciares National Park, the pearl of Patagonia
Lovers of breathtaking scenery are well advised to visit Los Glacieres National Park. It's no less than the world's third-largest ice cap, after the Arctic and Antarctic. The National Park encompasses Lago Viedma and Lago Argentina, two large lakes of glacial origin. It's here that great glaciers spread out, and photo enthusiasts have plenty of opportunity to take some fantastic shots. In the northern part of the park, the Fitz Roy mountain area is a must. It's also at the foot of this distinctive mountain that you'll find some great hikes, during which you'll need to keep your eyes peeled for the many birds that call the area home. Try to spot the majestic condor, for example.
6. Quebrada de Humahuaca, the beauty of arid landscapes
What a delight it is to explore this arid mountain valley along the Rio Grande river. The best way to do this is to rent a car and drive along the roads overlooking the colorful ochre and orange mountains. In Purmamarca, the 7-colour mountain is one of the most beautiful wonders of this fascinating territory, which stretches over 155 km. We also make a few stops in sublime little villages, such as Humahuaca, Uquia and Tilcara. Places where you can take the time to chat with the ever-welcoming locals. With so much to offer, it's hardly surprising that the Quebrada de Humahuaca was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2003.
7. What to do in Argentina A trip to the Laguna Brava provincial reserve
In the heart of La Rioja province lies the Laguna Brava reserve, where Andean landscapes reign supreme. This protected ecosystem is a must-see. Most of the reserve is devoted to Lake Brava and its surroundings. Surrounding the lagoon, where the waters stretch for 17 km, is the world's highest chain of volcanoes. Difficult to access, it is recommended to be accompanied by a guide to have the chance to enter safely. The other attraction of this reserve is its wealth of wildlife. The area is home to Andean cats, red foxes, pumas, vicuñas and superb pink flamingos.
8. Córdoba, a cultural mecca
The city of Córdoba is located in central Argentina. It's a major student city, an economic center and a cultural mecca for the country. The first thing to do is to visit the emblematic monuments. Go to the Plaza de San Martin to admire the cathedral, and then on to the Jesuit City, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Several museums are also worth a visit. The Museo de Bellas Artes Evita, for example, houses works by world-famous artists such as Picasso and Goya. At the Museo de la Memoria, you can plunge into the heart of the harsh years of Argentina's dictatorship. On another day, stroll along the Paseo de Las Artes, a must-see arts and crafts market where you can watch artistic performances between the stalls of vendors. Then, in the evening, the Nueva Córdoba district is where the city's students come to party in the many lively bars.
9. What to do in Argentina? Visit the Cueva de Las Manos
La Cueva de Las Manos, otherwise known as the Cave of Painted Hands, is located in the province of Santa Cruz, in Argentine Patagonia. This incredible archaeological site features hundreds of cave paintings. Extremely well preserved, they represent handprints that have been stenciled. According to archaeologists, they were created by groups of hunters between the 12th and 6th centuries BC. A must-see for history and art lovers, the site is also a Unesco World Heritage Site.
10. Tigre, Argentina's Venice
While in Buenos Aires, we recommend spending a few hours in the town of Tigre, not far from the bustling capital. It's a pleasant, green and peaceful city built on the banks of the Paraná delta, one of the largest deltas in the world. All journeys are made by boat, and you can take your time admiring the houses on stilts, from vast villas to small fishermen's cabins. On sunny days, it's not uncommon to see children jumping into the water and having a great time. As you cruise along the waterways, you'll also spot small wild islets, rich in flora and fauna. We end with a stroll through the city center, along the quays specially laid out for walkers.
11. Discover Mendoza, Argentina's wine capital
Argentina, the world's fifth-largest wine producer and Latin America's largest, is a renowned wine destination. Located close to the Chilean border, in the Andes mountain range, the Mendoza region is famous for its vineyards established at an altitude of 1,200 meters. This elevation favors the growth of vines and enables the cultivation of grape varieties such as the famous Malbec and Chardonnay. The city offers an abundance of wineries open to visitors, while numerous excursions on foot or by bike also enable visitors to discover the surrounding vineyards.
12. What to do in Argentina A stopover in Bariloche
Originally, San Carlos de Bariloche (more commonly known as Bariloche) was a small village created by German and Swiss German emigrants. You'll understand when you discover theAlpine atmosphere, the wooden chalets, the national chocolate capital... Bariloche has all the hallmarks of a European town, even though it's right in the heart of the Andean landscape. In summer, you can enjoy the magnificent scenery on the shores of Lake Nahuel Huapí, and in winter the city is transformed into a ski resort! For many, Bariloche is a must-see, providing a good transition between southern Patagonia and an eventual return to Buenos Aires.
13. Getting to Ushuaia in Tierra del Fuego
Ushuaia fascinates travelers: even if the impression of arriving "at the end of the world" fades, the region retains a wild beauty that seduces, and if Ushuaia is one of the magical places to propose, it's not for nothing: declaring your love in Tierra del Fuego is quite simply an unforgettable experience! We advise you toavoid the city center, which is often crowded with visitors, and instead enjoy the magnificent panorama offered by the southern mountains beforeembarking on a cruise to Antarctica, where you can propose!
14. What to do in Argentina Discover the city of Salta
Situated at an altitude of 1,200 m, "Salta la Belle" is a pretty city at the foot of the Andes with a chic atmosphere. It owes its nickname to the word sagta, which means "beautiful" in the indigenous Aymará language. If you've seen a lot of natural beauty during your vacation in Argentina, but would now like to do some sightseeing, Salta is the place for you! The buildings are beautiful and well-preserved, and the city boasts some interesting museums. It's a fine example of colonial architecture, characterized by its single-storey buildings. You can devote at least a full day to visiting the city, before tackling all the possible excursions in the region.
15. Explore the Perito Moreno glacier
If you're passing through El Calafate, you can't leave without seeing this gigantic glacier. You can even walk on it, which is very rare! Despite global warming, the Perito Moreno is the only glacier in the world that still advances at a rate of two meters a day, then collapses on a two- to four-year cycle, forming the icebergs that float on the lake. Added to this punctual noise are the incessant creaks and groans of the expanding glacier. The last few hours of a sunny day are the most propitious for ice collapses, a breathtaking spectacle that captivates with its majesty!
16. Climbing the Paso Internacional Los Libertadore
Situated along the main route between Santiago de Chile and Mendoza in Argentina, this stretch of the Andes is one of the most legendary climbs in the world one of the most legendary climbs to undertake in a lifetime. Stretching over 25 km in a serpentine pattern, it culminates in a statue of Christ the Redeemer of the Andes overlooking the valley at an altitude of 3,800 metres, offering a breathtaking view of Aconcagua, South America's highest peak. During the winter season, freezing temperatures, strong winds and rocky obstacles along the way make the climb particularly arduous.
17. What to do in Argentina Try Argentina's culinary specialties
From traditional parillas offering succulent grilled meats to deliciously stuffed empanadas , every region of the country is packed with unique culinary specialties to discover. Wine lovers can also enjoy the famous Malbecs accompanied by delicious meat dishes. For dessert, try alfajores, a typical Latin American pastry and one of the world's most gourmet desserts. It's made up of two cookies joined together by a layer of fruit, dulce de leche or chocolate and wrapped in a glaze.
What to do in Argentina in 15 days?
Considering a trip to Argentina over a 15-day period offers an opportunity to discover a variety of fascinating destinations in this vast South American country, which is also ideal for exploring by motorcycle! Here's a suggested itinerary to maximize your experience:
Days 1-3: Buenos Aires
Begin your journey in Argentina's bustling capital. Explore iconic neighborhoods such as La Boca, San Telmo and Recoleta. Visit historic sites such as Casa Rosada and Recoleta Cemetery. Enjoy a tango show and delicious cuisine at one of the city's many renowned restaurants.
Days 4-6: Iguazú Falls
Fly to the impressive Iguazú Falls, located on the border with Brazil. Spend a few days exploring Iguazú National Park, where you can admire the region's spectacular waterfalls and biodiversity. Take a boat trip to get closer to the falls and explore the surrounding hiking trails.
Days 7-9: Mendoza
Fly to Mendoza, famous for its vineyards and mountainous landscapes. Take a wine-tasting tour of one of the region's many wineries and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking and climbing. Don't forget to relax in the region's natural thermal baths.
Days 10-12: Bariloche and the Lake District
Travel to Argentine Patagonia and explore the picturesque town of Bariloche, nestled on the shores of the magnificent Lake Nahuel Huapi. Admire panoramic views from Cerro Campanario, sample local chocolate delights and take a boat trip to discover the breathtaking scenery of the Lake District.
Days 13-15: Ushuaia and Tierra del Fuego
End your trip in style with a trip to Ushuaia, the world's southernmost city, located in Tierra del Fuego. Explore the Tierra del Fuego National Park, cruise the Beagle Channel to observe the marine wildlife and discover the fascinating history of the region at the Museum at the End of the World.
This itinerary offers a balance of cultural, natural and adventurous experiences, allowing you to discover some of Argentina's most remarkable aspects in just two weeks. Be sure to book your accommodation and transportation in advance to maximize your time and comfort during your trip.
What to see in Argentina in 3 weeks?
If you have an extra week to explore Argentina, you can enrich your itinerary by adding extra destinations or extending your stay in certain regions. Here's how you could extend your trip:
Days 16-18: El Calafate and the Perito Moreno glacier
Fly to El Calafate in Argentina's Patagonia region. Explore the famous Perito Moreno glacier, one of the country's most impressive natural wonders. Take part in hiking excursions on the glacier or observe it from the observation platforms of Glacier National Park.
Days 19-21: Salta and Quebrada de Humahuaca
Fly to the historic city of Salta in northwest Argentina. Explore Salta's colonial center, visit local museums and sample regional cuisine. Then set off to discover the Quebrada de Humahuaca, a picturesque valley listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can admire desert landscapes, traditional villages and unique geological formations.
By adding an extra week to your trip, you'll have the opportunity to further explore Argentina's varied regions and remarkable attractions. Be sure to plan your travel and accommodation in advance, taking into account the considerable distances between some destinations and the different weather conditions in the regions you'll be visiting.
What to do in Argentina in January
Whether it's December or January, Argentina offers a multitude of activities and attractive destinations for travellers. Here are a few suggestions of activities and places to explore during this time of year:
- Enjoy the beaches: January is a summer month in Argentina, making it an ideal time to enjoy the magnificent beaches of the Atlantic coast. Popular destinations such as Mar del Plata, Pinamar and Villa Gesell offer miles of golden sand, perfect for relaxing, swimming and water sports.
- Discover Iguazú Falls: January is an excellent time to visit the impressive Iguazú Falls, located on the border between Argentina and Brazil. Warm temperatures and high water levels make the falls even more spectacular. Explore Iguazú National Park and admire the breathtaking natural beauty of this natural wonder.
- Festival de la Vendimia in Mendoza: If you're in the Mendoza region in January, don't miss the Festival de la Vendimia, one of the best events in Latin America. This event celebrates the grape harvest and the region's wine industry with parades, music and dance performances, as well as wine tastings.
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And if you're still hesitating, Argentina is one of our top 10 destinations for total disconnection, as well as our selection of places for unforgettable hikes.
