How to plan a trip to Argentina

Dre Roelandt

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. 

Step 1: Define your trip's parameters

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:

  • What time of year to go?
  • How much to spend?
  • How many days are enough? 

When's the best time to visit Argentina?

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).  

What are Argentina's seasons like?

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

Quebrada de Humahuaca and the colorful mountains, Salta - Argentina ©  Gonzalo Buzonni/Shutterstock

How much does a trip to Argentina usually cost?

Argentina’s prices can vary. Buenos Aires and Patagonia are on the pricier side, but there are budget-friendly options too.

  • Budget (ARS 15,000-25,000 / $40-70 per day): This includes hostel dormitories, public transportation, street food, and basic restaurants. Consider staying at hostels with kitchens to save money by cooking some meals.
  • Mid-range (ARS 35,000-60,000 / $100-170 per day): This will cover private rooms in boutique hotels, occasional taxis, good restaurants, and guided excursions. This is typical for most international travelers visiting Argentina.
  • Luxury (ARS 90,000+ / $250+ per day): If you're looking to go all out, this budget will cover luxury hotels, private drivers, high-end restaurants, and exclusive experiences like private wine tours or estancia stays. Expect truly world-class service at a fraction of what you'd pay in Europe or North America.

How many days are enough for Argentina?

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.

Should I combine my trip with other South American countries?

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 i stado krów na tle wulkan Lanin, Patagonia, Argentina © sunsinger/Shutterstock

Gauchos in Patagonia, Argentina © sunsinger/Shutterstock

Step 2: Make your trip "wish list"

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.

What are the most important cities to see?

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. 

  • Buenos Aires: Argentina's cosmopolitan capital dazzles with its distinct neighborhoods, from the historic San Telmo to the upscale Recoleta. Don't miss the colorful houses of La Boca, the trendy boutiques of Palermo Soho, or the grand architecture along Avenida de Mayo. The San Telmo market on Sundays is great for antiques—arrive early before it gets busy.
  • Mendoza: The heart of Argentina’s wine country has tree-lined streets, plazas, and mountain views. Beyond wine tasting, you can bike between vineyards, visit Parque General San Martín, or take a cooking class. Many wineries require reservations, but Bodega La Azul is a good option if you’re looking for a casual visit and lunch.
  • Córdoba: Argentina’s second-largest city has colonial architecture, a big student population, and a lively arts scene. Visit the Jesuit Block, check out the street art in Güemes, and experience the local cuarteto music. The cathedral looks great during the "blue hour" just after sunset.
  • Salta: A colonial city in the northwest with well-preserved buildings, museums, and nearby wine country. Ride the cable car up Cerro San Bernardo, walk around the central plaza, and try empanada salteñas. La Casona del Molino is a good spot for peña (folk music nights)—most people show up after 11 PM.
Cafayate Salta mountains in Argentina

Cafayate Salta mountains in Argentina © Shutterstock

Where in Patagonia should you visit?

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:

  • El Calafate & Perito Moreno Glacier: The base for exploring Los Glaciares National Park, El Calafate has glacier trekking, boat tours, and lake views. Perito Moreno Glacier is one of the few that’s still advancing, and you can watch ice chunks breaking off. The visitor platforms provide different perspectives of the glacier, and a boat tour offers a closer look at its towering ice walls. October-November is a good time to visit for fewer crowds and comfortable weather.
  • Ushuaia: The southernmost city in the world is a jumping-off point for exploring Tierra del Fuego and the Beagle Channel. Ride the End of the World Train, visit the old prison-turned-museum, and take a boat tour to see penguins on Martillo Island. The best weather is from December to March.
  • El Chaltén: A small town known for hiking, with trails leading to Mount Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre. It has a laid-back feel with craft breweries and climbing shops. December-February is peak hiking season, but March has fall colors and fewer people.
Grassland desert in Patagonia, Argentina © Stanislav Spurny/Shutterstock

Grassland desert in Patagonia, Argentina © Stanislav Spurny/Shutterstock

best places to go with kids Iguazu Falls is the most visited place in Argentina

Iguazu Falls is the most visited place in Argentina  © Shutterstock

What are the best hiking trails and national parks?

Argentina’s landscape ranges from subtropical jungles to glacial fields, with towering Andean peaks, vast pampas grasslands, and coastal wildlife reserves. 

  • Los Glaciares National Park: Home to well-known hikes like Laguna de los Tres (Mount Fitz Roy) and Laguna Torre. The best time to visit is October-April, with February offering peak conditions. The challenging Huemul Circuit is great for experienced hikers, while Laguna Capri is an easier alternative.
  • Nahuel Huapi National Park: Argentina’s oldest national park, located near Bariloche, has plenty of hiking trails. The Cerro Llao Llao trail has beautiful lake views, while the more difficult Cerro Catedral trek offers panoramic vistas. Hiking is best from December to March.
  • Tierra del Fuego National Park: The southernmost hiking trails in the world are here. The Senda Costera trail runs along the coast with great wildlife viewing, while Cerro Guanaco has views over the Beagle Channel. The best hiking conditions are from December to February. 
  • Peninsula Valdés (2-3 days): A great place for spotting wildlife, including southern right whales (June-December), elephant seals, and penguin colonies. Orcas here use a unique hunting method, beaching themselves to catch sea lion pups.
  • Quebrada de Humahuaca (3-4 days): A striking mountain valley with mineral-striped hills, Incan ruins, and traditional Andean culture. Visit the Hill of Seven Colors in Purmamarca and explore the town of Tilcara. The best time to go is during the dry season (April-November). 
  • Iguazú Falls (2-3 days): Walk both the upper and lower circuit trails, take a boat ride under the falls, and visit the Devil's Throat at sunrise for the best views. The falls are worth seeing year-round, though they’re less crowded in the shoulder season.

Off-the-beaten-path ideas

These places are a bit harder to get to and lesser known, but I think they make for great additions to any itinerary: 

  • Las Grutas: A beach town known for its unusual warm-water swimming due to tidal patterns. It’s a popular spot for scallop diving and hosts a well-known jazz festival. Stay in a family-run guesthouse and try diving with local fishermen for fresh seafood.
  • Ibera Wetlands (Esteros del Iberá): A remote wetland ecosystem that’s great for wildlife viewing. Fly to Posadas and take a 4-hour bus to Colonia Carlos Pellegrini. Stay at an estancia to see capybaras, caimans, and howler monkeys. Local guides offer boat tours, including nighttime wildlife spotting.
  • Villa General Belgrano: A small Alpine-style village with strong German influences, about two hours from Córdoba. The town’s Oktoberfest in October is Argentina’s largest, with local beers and traditional dances. Timber lodges and nearby hiking trails make it a relaxing getaway.
  • Talampaya National Park: A remote desert park with dramatic red rock formations and dinosaur fossils. A highlight is the guided full-moon tour, where the rocks are illuminated at night. Best visited between April and October.
Tierra del Fuego, Patagonia, Argentina

Tierra del Fuego, Patagonia, Argentina © Shutterstock

Step 3: Start any administrative tasks

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:

  • Do you need a visa?
  • Do you need travel insurance?
  • What vaccines or paperwork do you need to gather?

Do you need a visa to go to Argentina?

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. 

What is the reciprocity fee?

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.

What vaccines do you need for Argentina?

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

Cerro Catedral, Bariloche, Argentina © Mariano Cerdeira/Shutterstock

Step 4: Planning your route through Argentina

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:

  • How many places can you visit during your trip?
  • How will you travel from place to place?
  • How many days of your trip do you want to be traveling?

How do you get around Argentina?

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. 

Should you rent a car?

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.

What about domestic flights?

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.

Things not to miss: Talampaya National Park, Argentina © Shutterstock

Step 5: Lock in the major bookings

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:

  • How are you getting to Argentina?
  • Where to stay?

How to save money on plane tickets

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. 

How to get to Argentina from the US

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.

Where should you stay in Argentina?

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-whale-shutterstock_156997136

Puerto Madryn, Argentina © Shutterstock

Step 6: Plan and book your activities

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:

  • What activities are most important?
  • What attractions need advance booking?

What attractions need advance booking?

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: 

  • Teatro Colón (Buenos Aires): Book guided tours at least 2 weeks ahead, particularly during peak season (October-March). Tours run daily from 9am-5pm, with English sessions at 11am, 1pm, and 3pm. Online booking opens 30 days in advance, with a 30-person limit per tour.
  • Perito Moreno Glacier mini-trekking (El Calafate): Book ice trekking experiences 3-4 months ahead for summer visits (December-February). There are age restrictions (10-65 years), and tours are limited to 20 people per group. Book directly through Hielo y Aventura, the only authorized operator.
  • Iguazu Falls boat rides (Puerto Iguazu): For Great Adventure or Nautical Adventure tours, book 1-2 months ahead during high season (December-February, July). Tours run every 15 minutes from 9:15am to 3:45pm, with a maximum of 20 passengers per boat.
  • Casa Rosada Museum (Buenos Aires): Reserve free weekend guided tours at least 3 weeks in advance through the official website. These tours operate on Saturdays and Sundays only and are limited to 20 people per session. Don’t forget to bring ID matching your reservation.
perito-moreno-glacier-argentina-shutterstock_599713124

Perito Moreno Glacier in Argentina © Shutterstock

How do you visit major attractions?

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. 

Perito Moreno Glacier 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.

Iguazu Falls visits

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.

Tango shows and classes

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

Buenos Aires City, La Boca District, Tango dance terrace © Shutterstock

What are the best things to do in Buenos Aires?

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.

Adventure activities

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: 

  • Glacier trekking in El Chaltén: Strap on crampons and hike across the ancient ice of Viedma Glacier. Guided treks take you through deep crevasses and striking blue ice caves, offering an up-close look at Patagonia's dynamic landscape.
  • Whitewater rafting in Mendoza: The Mendoza River runs wild in summer, offering thrilling Class III-IV rapids. Outfitters in Potrerillos provide expert guides and all the gear you need for an adrenaline-pumping ride through the Andes.
  • Horseback riding with Gauchos in San Antonio de Areco: Ride through Argentina's Pampas with traditional gauchos, learning their centuries-old way of life. Many estancias offer full-day experiences, complete with mate, asado, and folk music.
  • Diving in Puerto Madryn: One of South America's best cold-water dive spots, Puerto Madryn offers encounters with sea lions, dolphins, and even whales in crystal-clear Atlantic waters. No prior diving experience? Try a discovery dive with an instructor.
  • Sandboarding in Cafayate: Slide down the massive dunes of Los Médanos in Argentina's northwest. The warm, dry climate and stunning desert backdrop make for an unforgettable ride, whether you're a beginner or a seasoned boarder.
  • Skiing in Bariloche: Argentina's top winter sports destination, Cerro Catedral offers slopes for all levels, along with stunning views of Nahuel Huapi Lake. The après-ski scene includes local chocolate shops and craft breweries.
  • Paragliding in Córdoba: Launch from the Sierras de Córdoba and soar above rolling hills and deep valleys. Tandem flights with professional pilots make it accessible for first-timers, and the thermals here are strong enough for long, scenic glides.
argentina-gaucho-shutterstock_414369235

Gaucho in Argentina © Shutterstock

Best vineyard tours in Argentina

Argentina’s wine culture is best known for Malbec, but there’s a wide range of varietals across different regions.

  • Mendoza’s Uco Valley: Bodega Zuccardi Valle de Uco focuses on high-altitude wines in a modernist space. Bodega Catena Zapata helped put Argentina on the map for premium wines. Corazón del Sol specializes in small-batch wines in a solar-powered facility.
  • Luján de Cuyo: Bodega Benegas still follows century-old winemaking traditions, while SuperUco takes a biodynamic approach with minimal intervention. Bodega Lagarde serves a long lunch with carefully paired wines.
  • Cafayate: Bodega Piattelli has tastings with views of the mountains, while El Porvenir de Cafayate sticks to small-production techniques. Bodega Colomé, one of the world’s highest vineyards, combines winemaking with an art museum.

What to eat in Argentina?

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:

  • Asado at Don Julio (Buenos Aires): A well-known spot for grilled meats. Reservations fill up fast, so plan ahead. Try the mollejas (sweetbreads) and entraña (skirt steak).
  • Empanadas at La Aguada (Salta): Northern-style empanadas are filled with hand-cut beef, potatoes, and local spices. La Aguada makes them using traditional methods, with 13 crimped folds sealing the dough. Best eaten fresh from the clay oven.
  • Choripán at Chori (Buenos Aires): A chorizo sandwich with house-made chimichurri and creative toppings. The smoky, grilled sausage and crusty bread make for a solid street food option.
  • Ice Cream at Rapa Nui (Bariloche): Patagonian-style gelato with Italian roots. The dulce de leche granizado and wild berry flavors highlight local ingredients. Expect a line, but it moves quickly.

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

Argentinian beef steak © Foodio/Shutterstock

Step 7: Handle the last details

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:

  • How do you stay connected?
  • What should you pack?
  • Other details to check

Should you get travel insurance for Argentina?

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. 

How do you stay connected in Argentina?

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

La Boca Argentina Urban Art

What currency should you use in Argentina?

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.

Understanding the Blue Dollar

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.

What should you pack for Argentina?

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-patagonia-argentina-shutterstock_672143464

Penguin in Patagonia, Argentina © Shutterstock

Argentina with kids

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. 

Going from Ushuaia to Antarctica

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:

  • Comfort crossing the Drake Passage
  • Number of landings you can do
  • Quality of guides and lectures
  • Ship size and amenities
  • Activities (kayaking, camping)

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.

Planning a trip with experts

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.

Remember to enjoy

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.

Dre Roelandt

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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