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Travel advice for Argentina
From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for visiting Argentina
Book your individual trip, stress-free with local travel experts
written by
Dre Roelandt
updated 14.02.2025
Planning a trip to Argentina can feel overwhelming—it’s a massive country with diverse regions, each offering something unique and requiring different planning. This guide is intended to break it all down into easy steps, whether it's your first international trip or you're a seasoned traveler. We’ll take you through the planning process step by step, starting 8 months before your departure. From when to book flights to the best destinations for your interests, handling local currency, understanding regional weather, and budgeting, here's how to plan a trip to Argentina.
When to do this: 6-8 months before (8+ months if traveling December-February)
So with a lot of options, I think it’s always best to start with the basics. First, decide roughly what time of year you think you can go, and how long you’ll want to go for. For most, this will also mean getting a ballpark idea of what the budget will look like.
If you're really unsure, it can help to look at sample itineraries to see how others have planned their trips to get a good idea (see our Argentina 7 days and 14 days itineraries for example). Don’t stress, though—take your time, and things will fall into place. A checklist or timeline is a solid way to keep track of everything.
Decisions to make:
Argentina’s a year-round destination. High season (December-February) means warm weather and more tourists, especially in places like Patagonia and Buenos Aires. For a more relaxed vibe, aim for the shoulder seasons (March-May or September-November). The weather’s still great, and there are fewer crowds. If you’re into festivals, look for Carnival (February-March), Mendoza’s Vendimia Wine Festival (March), or the Buenos Aires Tango Festival (August).
Argentina’s climate changes a lot depending on where you are. Patagonia is best from November to March—great for hiking and wildlife. Buenos Aires and the Pampas region have hot summers and mild winters, while the Northwest is ideal for hiking from April to November. If you love wine, visit Mendoza during the harvest (February-April). Skiers should check out Bariloche in the Andes from July to September.
Quebrada de Humahuaca and the colorful mountains, Salta - Argentina © Gonzalo Buzonni/Shutterstock
Argentina’s prices can vary. Buenos Aires and Patagonia are on the pricier side, but there are budget-friendly options too.
For a first trip, 10-14 days is a good amount of time. That way, you can check out Buenos Aires (3-4 days), one big natural attraction (Patagonia or Iguazu Falls—3-4 days), and somewhere like Mendoza (2-3 days). If you have three weeks, you can dive into more remote areas, like Tierra del Fuego. Keep in mind that traveling between regions can take time, as distances are big.
Argentina is big enough to keep you busy for a while, but if you’ve got more than two weeks, consider adding Uruguay (it’s a quick ferry ride from Buenos Aires) or Chile’s Torres del Paine if you’re heading to Patagonia. Brazil’s side of Iguazu Falls is another easy add-on. Just don’t try to cover too many countries unless you have a month or more—South America’s distances can be tricky.
Gauchos in Patagonia, Argentina © sunsinger/Shutterstock
When to do this: 4-6 months before
This is the fun part—making a list of everything you might want to see and do. Jot down places, activities, and experiences that interest you. Putting them on a map can help you see what’s realistic and how they fit together.
For group trips, Google Maps’ My Maps feature lets you pin locations and add notes, making it easy to collaborate. Shared Google Docs or Trello boards also work well for gathering ideas and keeping track of plans. Having everything in one place is really helpful.
Argentina’s cities reflect a mix of European and Latin American influences, with architecture that ranges from grand colonial buildings to modern skyscrapers. Each city has its own character, shaped by history, immigration, and local traditions.
Cafayate Salta mountains in Argentina © Shutterstock
Patagonia is known for its remote beauty. Truly, one could very easily spend an entire trip here without even running out of things to see. Here are some usual favorites:
Grassland desert in Patagonia, Argentina © Stanislav Spurny/Shutterstock
Iguazu Falls is the most visited place in Argentina © Shutterstock
Argentina’s landscape ranges from subtropical jungles to glacial fields, with towering Andean peaks, vast pampas grasslands, and coastal wildlife reserves.
These places are a bit harder to get to and lesser known, but I think they make for great additions to any itinerary:
Tierra del Fuego, Patagonia, Argentina © Shutterstock
When to do this: 4-6 months before
It’s a good idea to start the admin stuff about 4-6 months before you leave. You don’t need to do everything at once, but you can break things down into smaller tasks, like checking visa and health requirements. A helpful tip is to create a folder (digital or physical) to keep all your important documents, bookings, and travel info organized in one place.
Decisions to make:
For most visitors from North America, Europe, and Australia, you don’t need a visa to enter Argentina for up to 90 days. Just make sure your passport is valid for at least six months after you plan to leave. While you won’t need a visa for tourism, some countries still require a reciprocity fee, which is based on what your country charges Argentine citizens for visas. It’s a good idea to check Argentina’s immigration website for the latest info since rules can change.
The reciprocity fee in Argentina has changed a few times in recent years. Right now, most travelers don’t need to pay one, but there are still some countries that do. The fee is generally equal to what your country charges Argentine citizens. Double-check Argentina’s immigration website to confirm the current requirements before you go, as the policies can shift depending on diplomatic relations.
Make sure your routine vaccinations are up to date before traveling to Argentina. Yellow fever is only required if you're heading to certain areas like Iguazu Falls or the jungle in the northeast, but it’s recommended for those places. Hepatitis A and Typhoid are also recommended for most travelers. If you plan on spending a lot of time in more remote areas, you might want to consider getting the Hepatitis B vaccine.
Cerro Catedral, Bariloche, Argentina © Mariano Cerdeira/Shutterstock
When to do this: 3-4 months before
This is when you’ll start to figure out exactly how long you’ll spend in each place and how to get from one destination to the next. It can feel like a lot to sort out, but try breaking it down into smaller steps. Don’t worry about making everything perfect right away—there’s plenty of time to adjust.
Decisions to make:
Getting around Argentina can be done in a few ways, depending on how far you're going and what fits your schedule. For long distances, flying is usually the most efficient, but for shorter trips, buses can be a good option. They’re comfortable, and if you take an overnight bus, you can save on a night’s accommodation. In cities like Buenos Aires, you’ve got solid public transport, plus ride-sharing services are pretty common.
Renting a car makes sense if you’re heading to places like Mendoza or the Lake District in Patagonia, where it’s easier to get around that way. In larger cities, though, a car isn’t necessary. Public transport works fine, and parking can be tricky. If you do rent a car, you’ll need an international driving permit, and it’s good to know that some roads, especially in remote areas, can be unpaved.
Most domestic flights are operated by Aerolíneas Argentinas, but you’ll also find budget options like JetSMART and Flybondi. It’s a good idea to book early, especially if you’re traveling during peak times (like December through February). Flight schedules can sometimes change, and some routes are only available seasonally, so it’s worth keeping an eye on. If you’re flying a lot, you might want to sign up for Aerolíneas Plus for some rewards.
Things not to miss: Talampaya National Park, Argentina © Shutterstock
When to do this: 4-5 months before (or earlier for high season)
At this point, you’ll want to get your major bookings sorted—this means buying your plane tickets and securing accommodations. I’d recommend booking your flight 4-5 months in advance, or even earlier if you’re traveling during high season. A good way to stay on top of it is to create a checklist for these big tasks and work through them as you go.
Decisions to make:
For international flights, try to book 4-6 months ahead, especially if you're traveling in high season (December through February). Consider flying into Buenos Aires and out of a different city to save some time and avoid backtracking. Google Flights and Skyscanner are both great for tracking prices and finding deals. If you can, be flexible with your travel dates to find lower fares. It’s also worth checking for flights out of major hubs like Miami, New York, or Santiago, Chile. And don’t forget to sign up for newsletters from airlines like LATAM and Aerolíneas Argentinas—sometimes they’ll send out promotions that could save you some money.
Most flights from the US land at Buenos Aires' Ezeiza International Airport (EZE). Direct flights operate from cities like Miami, New York, Atlanta, and Dallas, and you’ll find options with American Airlines, United, and Aerolíneas Argentinas. The flight time usually ranges from 8-11 hours depending on where you’re flying from. If you want to break up the journey, you can consider a stopover in places like Santiago, Lima, or São Paulo, which could save you some money.
There’s a range of accommodation options across Argentina, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. If you’re traveling during the high season, it’s a good idea to book 3-4 months in advance, particularly in popular destinations like Buenos Aires and Patagonia. If you’re up for something a bit different, staying at an estancia (a traditional ranch) could be a cool experience. Mixing up where you stay can help balance your budget—for example, you might splurge on a nice hotel in one city and opt for a hostel in another.
Puerto Madryn, Argentina © Shutterstock
When to do this: 2-3 months before
At this point, it's a good idea to start planning your activities. They don’t all have to be set in stone, but it can be helpful to have an idea of what you want to do, especially if you’re traveling with others.
Decisions to make:
Some attractions in Argentina require advance booking, especially during peak seasons (but they are still some of the best things to do in Argentina and worth it). Here's a list to help you out:
Perito Moreno Glacier in Argentina © Shutterstock
Most major attractions in Argentina can be visited independently, but guided tours can provide extra insight and help with logistics. It’s a good idea to book popular attractions in advance, especially during high season (December-February). Many sites have online booking systems, but some remote spots may require you to arrange tours through local operators. If you're after a deeper experience, think about hiring certified guides, especially for hiking or wildlife tours.
You can visit the glacier independently from the walkways, but guided tours provide unique views. The mini-trekking tour (1.5 hours on the ice) is the most popular, so book well in advance. If you're looking for something more challenging, the Big Ice tour (3.5 hours) is perfect for adventurous types. All tours include crampon instruction. Visit in the morning for the best light and fewer crowds, or go in the late afternoon to witness dramatic ice calving.
The Argentine side of the falls requires at least one full day to explore the upper and lower circuits. Start your day with the Devil's Throat at opening time (8:00 AM) before the crowds arrive. The free park train is handy for covering longer distances between trails. The boat ride under the falls is thrilling (you’ll get soaked), but it's best to book it after your walking tours. Multi-day passes offer better flexibility and value.
Buenos Aires offers both touristy tango shows and more authentic experiences at local milongas (dance halls). For shows, check out venues like Café Tortoni and El Viejo Almacén for intimate experiences, often with dinner options. For a more authentic tango, sign up for beginner classes at La Viruta or La Catedral, then hit their milongas after 11 PM. Many hotels can arrange private lessons with professional dancers.
Buenos Aires City, La Boca District, Tango dance terrace © Shutterstock
Buenos Aires has a lot going on. Check out the historic San Telmo market on Sundays, wander through the colorful La Boca district, and dive into world-class art at MALBA. Take a street art tour in Palermo, join a local cooking class, or explore Recoleta’s grand architecture. Food tours through Chacarita or Villa Crespo introduce you to local favorites, while evening gallery walks highlight the city's thriving art scene.
There are far too many adventure activities in Argentina to be able to list them all here, but here is a sample of some of the best:
Gaucho in Argentina © Shutterstock
Argentina’s wine culture is best known for Malbec, but there’s a wide range of varietals across different regions.
Argentine food is shaped by immigration and regional traditions. Asado (barbecue) is a staple, but there are also strong Italian influences, modern takes on classics, and local specialties worth seeking out.
A few favorites:
And do not forget: street food in Argentina is quick, filling, and found all over. Choripán (chorizo sandwiches) are a favorite outside football stadiums, and empanadas are an easy snack from park-side food stands. In Buenos Aires, food trucks gather at events like "Buenos Aires Market."
Argentinian beef steak © Foodio/Shutterstock
When to do this: 1-2 months before
By now, most of your trip is set, and it’s just about wrapping up a few final details before you go.
Decisions to make:
It’s a good idea to get travel insurance for Argentina, especially if you plan on doing any adventure activities or visiting more remote areas. Look for a policy that covers medical evacuation, trip cancellation, and adventure sports, if applicable. Healthcare in major cities is generally good but can be expensive, and you might not find the same quality in more rural regions. If you're planning on hiking in Patagonia or doing any winter sports, make sure your policy includes coverage for those.
Staying connected in Argentina is pretty easy, but you’ll want to plan ahead. Most people pick up a local SIM card from providers like Personal, Claro, or Movistar. You can get one at their stores or kiosks with your passport. Prepaid plans are usually a good deal for data and calls. If you don’t want to swap SIM cards, consider getting an eSIM, which is becoming more common. In cities like Buenos Aires, you’ll find Wi-Fi in most cafes, restaurants, and public spaces, but for more remote areas, it’s best to download offline maps and apps before you go.
La Boca Argentina Urban Art
Argentina's currency situation can be a bit tricky, so it’s important to plan ahead. The Argentine peso goes through periods of high inflation, so the exchange rate can fluctuate. It’s recommended to bring new, clean USD bills for the best exchange rates. The official and unofficial (blue) rates can differ quite a bit. Bring cash in USD, especially $100s and $50s, and avoid bringing any old or damaged bills, as they may not be accepted.
The "blue dollar" is Argentina’s unofficial exchange rate, and it can offer a better deal than the official rate. It’s informal, but it's commonly used. Some places, like major hotels or restaurants, may offer better rates if you pay in cash. Just avoid exchanging money on the street—stick to reputable sources recommended by your hotel or trusted locals.
When packing for Argentina, you’ll need to be ready for a variety of climates and activities. For places like Buenos Aires, lightweight, breathable clothes will keep you comfortable. If you’re heading to the southern regions or Patagonia, though, bring layers and warmer clothing. Comfortable shoes are a must for city exploring, and if you plan to do any hiking, consider packing boots. Argentinians tend to dress smart-casual, so if you plan on going out to eat, you might want to bring something nice. You'll need a universal power adapter because Argentina uses different outlets (Type C and I). Don’t forget the essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, especially if you're visiting higher-altitude areas.
Penguin in Patagonia, Argentina © Shutterstock
Argentina has a lot to offer for families. You can check out wildlife in Peninsula Valdés or explore interactive museums in Buenos Aires that kids usually enjoy. There are also fun activities like gaucho experiences at estancias, penguin watching in Patagonia, and cooking classes. The big cities have good medical facilities, and most restaurants are kid-friendly. Renting an apartment can be a good option if you need more space and a kitchen. Plan for shorter activities and leave time for parks. Buenos Aires’ Ecological Reserve and Tigre Delta are nice day trips. Just keep in mind that summer can get hot, and dinner is often served later than you might expect.
Ushuaia is your launchpad to Antarctica, with most cruises leaving between November and March. If you’re planning to go, book through trusted operators 6–12 months in advance—last-minute deals can happen, but they’re a bit of a gamble. Expect a total of 10–23 days depending on your trip, and pick between expedition ships (more adventurous, with zodiac landings) and larger cruise ships (more comfortable, but you’ll be less in touch with nature). Some things to consider:
It’s also a good idea to give yourself extra time in Ushuaia before departure to account for any weather delays. Many people combine their Antarctic cruises with a trip through Patagonia.
Overwhelmed by all the details? You're not alone. Researching and planning takes time, but with our tailor made trips, you can enjoy a journey designed just for you by a local expert who knows the area inside and out. Plus, you’ll have 24/7 support throughout your trip.
It’s easy to feel like you need to rush through the must-see spots, but some of the best experiences come from slowing down and savoring the quiet moments. Now that you’re all set, let go of the need to check off every box and focus on truly enjoying your time—that's the real magic. For more inspiration, check out our trip ideas gallery.
written by
Dre Roelandt
updated 14.02.2025
Dre Roelandt is originally from the United States but lives and works in Berlin, Germany. Dre is a freelance writer and artist with a passion for travelling. They are an in-house Senior Content Editor at Rough Guides.
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