Top 10 must-visit places in Argentina

Argentina strikes a chord with almost every kind of traveler. The powerful allure of its exquisite wine and steak, the revolutionary backgrounds of Ernesto ‘Che’ Guevara, the home of footballing legends Lionel Messi and Diego Maradona, some of the world’s most impressive landscapes and trekking opportunities in Patagonia, and the fact that its capital is the Paris of the South… Argentina couldn’t get any more romantic to the intrepid traveler. This list of 10 must-visit places  in Argentina takes you from the bohemian neighborhoods of Buenos Aires down to the majestic peaks of Patagonia, and even further to the ‘end of the world’ in Ushuaia. So buckle up, get your tango shoes on, and grab yourself a yerba mate.

Valdes Peninsula

After you’ve been blown away by the epic scale and beauty of Patagonia’s mountains, be prepared for an extraordinary experience at the Valdes Peninsula, a nature reserve within the region that’s home to some of the most spectacular marine life in the world.

Located in the east and on the Atlantic Coast, this UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts whale-watching opportunities between the months of May and December – and the best months are between August and November, when you can expect to see orcas, dolphins and penguins as well.

Córdoba

Awarded the coveted title of cultural capital of the Americas in 2006, Córdoba, northwest of the country’s capital Buenos Aires, defines Argentinian culture. This is a playground for scenesters, with top-of-the-range art galleries and an active alternative movie scene. The young, bohemian nature of Córdoba continues into the shopping boulevards as boutique shops and market stalls punctuate the atmospheric streets. Be sure to meander the weekend markets, where artisans show off their latest goods.

Monte Fitz Roy

Situated on the stunning border between Argentina and Chile, Monte Fitz Roy is a 3,375 m-high mountain of colossal beauty, nestled in the southern Patagonian ice fields. Its jagged peaks and unique slopes, surrounded by beautiful serene lakes, are a huge draw for hikers and photographers alike. The untouched nature and pure air are a dream for mountaineers, and the panoramic scenery is postcard-perfect.

Salta province

The city of Salta, while charming and full of life and colonial history, isn’t the main attraction when visiting this barren province of Argentina. The crumbling deserts are in stark contrast to the verdant regions you’ll experience in the south of Argentina – a demonstration of the incredible diversity and vastness of this country.

Be sure to head to the rustic village of Jujuy, the spectacular Quebrada de Humahuaca valley, and the surreal Hill of Seven Colors. The journey from the city of Salta into these places isn’t one you’ll want to fall asleep on, as the views are astonishing. You can also find salt flats here, which aren’t quite as iconic as those in Bolivia but are still plenty of fun for camera tricks and exploration.

Ushuaia

For as far as the eye can see, the city of Ushuaia is surrounded by larger-than-life, snow-capped mountain peaks. Situated at the very tip of the southernmost point of Argentina, Tierra del Fuego’s capital has garnered the nickname ‘the end of the world’. As the main base for expeditions to Antarctica, it’s a little haven for adventure-seekers – and with a spectacular spectrum of outdoor activities to try here, your pulse will be racing with excitement all throughout your stay. Enjoy sailing, hiking, kayaking and skiing, before taking time to explore the city itself – a quaint and homely place, with a friendly atmosphere. We’d recommend visiting in the local summertime, around December or January.

Mendoza

Visitors flock to the western city of Mendoza to indulge in fine wine tastings, year-round hot weather, and some of Argentina’s most exquisite steaks. It was in the Mendoza wine region, in the foothills of the Andes, that the hype around the country’s incredible wine originated. Cycling wine tours are popular among more active types, while guided driving excursions are perfect for taking things at a more laid-back pace.

Using Mendoza as your base, head for an exciting rural exploration outside of the city: this will take you to some of the highest altitudes in the world, and you’ll find great opportunities to get adventurous as you raft and ski across the epic landscape. After a day of outdoor pursuits, you’ll get to return to Mendoza’s lovely range of fine restaurants.

El Calafate

Gateway to Los Glaciares National Park, El Calafate is your port of call for exploring the Perito Moreno Glacier – arguably the finest glacier in the world, which showcases nature’s power over man. It’s located about two hours outside of the town, itself nestled on the scenic shores of Lake Argentino, where you can enjoy connecting with nature on a very different, more serene level. Once you’re done gazing in awe at the glacier and the surrounding snow-capped peaks, you’ll find El Calafate offers wonderful horse riding tours with equally impressive views.

Bariloche

From its sizzling steakhouses to the stark peaks of Patagonian monsters, Bariloche cements itself as one of the most versatile tourist destinations on the planet. Many use Bariloche as a base for hiking around the endless network of dream-like scenery, and up the world-famous Andes Mountains – but often they’re amazed by the charms of the town, itself. The laid-back atmosphere you’ll find here is mirrored by the enchantingly serene landscape which surrounds it, notably the glacial waters of Nahuel Huapi. Spend some time exploring quaint cafes and restaurants, where exceptional beef and wine menus are to be found.

Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires sizzles like a fine cut of beef on an asado. It’s dark and complex like a delicious Malbec, and its grace and majesty are matched by the sultry, sensual movements of tango.

Questionable metaphors aside, this is one of South America’s most exciting cities, full to the brim with pop-up restaurants, incredible clubs, hip bars, and fantastic boutique shopping. Many go for the wine and the steak, but find the leafy boulevards of Palermo and the inimitable atmosphere in San Telmo impossible to leave.

It’s known as the Paris of South America, but this fails to do justice to the unique, alluring charms of Buenos Aires itself. Make no mistake, Argentina’s capital city is a world-beater.

Iguazu Falls

The continuous, thundering crash of 275 epic waterfalls contributes to the breathtaking experience that is a visit to the Iguazu Falls. You could witness these falls in all their splendor on both the Brazilian and Argentinian sides of this mesmerizing border; however, if you only have time to see one, many say the Argentinian side is best. Despite the falls’ vociferous crashes, there is something strangely meditative and therapeutic about the relaxing nature of running water. This is truly one of the greatest natural features we have ever seen!

Make it happen

Are you ready to embark on an adventure through Argentina? Connect with our team of locally-based travel experts who possess an abundance of first-hand knowledge – brimming with insights to assist you in crafting your ideal trip to Argentina. Reach out today and let us help turn your vision for the perfect holiday into a tailored and unforgettable experience.