Everything you could possibly need to know before planning a trip to Argentina bundled in one comprehensive guide. Budget, driving tips, best time to go and much more
Argentina
Traveling in Argentina
Explore sun-drenched vineyards, walk across icy glaciers, hike off all the empanadas you tried and share a mate with your new local friends. From colorful & vibrant Buenos Aires to tranquil Patagonia, visiting Argentina is exhilarating; a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Although it might not look like it at first, Argentina is in fact the second-largest country in South America. Traveling anywhere will take time – a 15-hour bus ride is not uncommon; the beauty of each place will sneak up on you and leave you wanting to stay “just that extra day”.
Trust me, I ended up spending 6 weeks in Patagonia vs. the initial 2 weeks that were planned.
Transportation in Argentina
Renting a car in Argentina: Going on a road trip in Argentina gives you the ultimate flexibility. To rent a car requires a minimum age of 21, an international driver’s license and a credit card. Driving in Argentina is subject to local rules.
Bus travel in Argentina: Micros (long-distance busses) are the easiest way to travel around Argentina. Overnight busses have different classes: semi-cama (seats that tilt back slightly); coche cama (fully reclinable seats); ejecutivo (fully reclinable plush seats, usually comes with a meal). Purchase tickets online or at the local bus terminal.
Flying: Northern Argentina is served by the low-cost airline Flybondi which can be cheaper than the bus.
Travel tips before going to Argentina
- Tipping in Argentina: Not obligatory
- Is Argentina safe? Relatively. One of the safest countries in South America
- Being a vegetarian in Argentina: Food in Argentina is meat-based (Asados, steaks,…). Choices will be limited in smaller towns.
- Local simcards: To be purchased at the local newsagent or mobile phone store. The largest networks are Personal, Movistar and Claro.
- ATMs in Argentina: ATMs are limited to 2000 and 3000 Argentinian Pesos. The ATM charges around 200 Argentinian pesos irrespective of the amount you take out.
- What is Mate: Mate is a tea like herb and a favorite of locals.
Places to Visit in Argentina
ARGENTINA PLANNING GUIDE
PATAGONIA PLANNING GUIDE
COMING SOON: 2 WEEKS IN
PATAGONIA ITINERARY
COMING SOON: NATURAL
WONDERS IN ARGENTINA
Key Facts About Argentina
Capital |
Buenos Aires |
Main Languages |
Spanish |
Population |
45.83 million |
Currency |
Argentine Peso ($) |
Main religion |
Catholic |
Time Zone |
UTC-3/ UTC-4 |
Plugs types |
C, I |
Driving |
Right side of the road |
Emergency Number |
107 |
Practical information for visiting Argentina
HOW TO GET THERE
Fly: Buenos Aires Ministro Pistarini Airport (EZE); Cordoba Airport (COR); Mendoza Airport (MDZ); Ushuaia Airport (USH)
ACCOMODATIONS
Find a list of comfortable accomodations ranging from local guesthouses to luxury hotels.
BUDGET
Average Daily Budget: $80
Meals $23 a person; accomodations $45; transportation $25
Note: The Argentinian Peso is strongly volatile, prices may vary
WHEN TO GO
That depends on the region
Northern Argentina: October – June
Central Argentina: October – June
Patagonia: December to March
VISA REQUIREMENTS
Depending on the country of origin visitors can stay for up to 90 days; costs depending on the country of origin
TOURS & ACTIVITIES
Gaucho tours, excursions on Perito Moreno, learn how to make Empanadas and dance Tango like the locals.
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Blogposts on Argentina
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