Argentina
Argentina
The Andes, the pampas and wine
Argentina is a continent disguised as a country. From the glaciers of Patagonia to the vineyards of Mendoza, from the passionate streets of Buenos Aires to the endless stretches of Ruta 40: everything here is outsized, intense and deeply human.
At a glance
Exchange rates and flight times are approximate.
Why Argentina
Patagonia
The wide-open spaces of the South, the peaks of Fitz Roy, glaciers cracking and calving. Landscapes from the end of the world.
Buenos Aires & tango
A city that lives at night, between legendary steakhouses, smoky milongas and districts that change mood block by block.
The vineyards of Mendoza
Sipping a Malbec with the snow-capped Andes in front of you. One of the most beautiful wine settings in the world, and the wines live up to it.
The right season for Argentina
October to April (southern spring and autumn). Avoid June-August (southern winter) for Patagonia, except for whale watching at Península Valdés (June to December). October-November or March-April offer the best balance of weather and crowds.
Hugely varied climate by region: humid subtropical in the north, temperate in Buenos Aires, subarctic in Patagonia. Pack layers. In Patagonia, strong winds blow even in summer. December-February: hot (25-35°C). June-August: dry cold (5-15°C in the mountains).
The must-sees
Perito Moreno (Patagonia)
A glacier that calves enormous blocks of ice into a turquoise lake. Long cited as one of the world's rare stable glaciers, it is now showing its first signs of retreat, but the spectacular ice falls remain. Not to be missed.
Fitz Roy & El Chaltén
Patagonia's legendary mountain with its jagged peaks. Treks range from 2 hours to 2 days. Surreal scenery at every step.
Buenos Aires & Tango
A capital that comes alive at night. Legendary steakhouses, smoky milongas, colourful neighbourhoods (La Boca), street art. Intense urban energy.
Mendoza wine country
A wine valley facing the snow-capped Andes. Malbec and cabernet that rival the world's finest. Historic estates, dreamlike landscapes.
Salta & the Andean North
The Hill of Seven Colors, colonial villages, traditional markets. Argentina's altiplano, where Andean culture is very much alive.
Misiones & Iguazú Falls
A 275 m curtain of waterfalls over the Paraná: more powerful than Niagara. Tropical jungle, hotels nestled in the heart of nature.
Local flavours to try
- Asado (Argentine barbecue): grilled meat, chimichurri, the Sunday family tradition
- Malbec & Mendoza wines: deep colour, real structure, a discovery in every glass
- Choripán & street food: grilled sausage in crusty bread, punchy condiments, street eating at its best
- Empanadas (Jujuy, Salta): stuffed turnovers with meat, cheese or vegetables depending on the region
- Dulce de leche: thick milk caramel, on everything: tarts, bread, straight off the spoon. Addiction guaranteed
- Mate: a hot infusion and a social tradition to share. Ritual and hospitality in a single cup
Practical tips
- Excellent exchange rate (€1 = 1,000+ ARS): your money goes further. ATM withdrawals usually beat exchanging euros in cash.
- Huge distances: Buenos Aires to Patagonia is a 3-hour flight. Budget for domestic flights. By road it's 30+ hours.
- Time difference of -5h vs Luxembourg. Easy to adjust to. Meals run late (dinner 9-10pm).
- Driving in Patagonia: road quality varies, fuel is expensive, refuelling stops are rare. Doable but plan ahead (4x4 recommended).
- Electricity 220V, plugs like in France. No adapter needed. Good WiFi in cities, patchy in the mountains.
- Tipping is not compulsory but appreciated (~10% in restaurants). Porters/guides: 2-3 USD/day recommended.
Frequently asked questions · Argentina
How many days do you need to do Argentina justice?
At least 14 days for Buenos Aires + Mendoza + Patagonia. 21 days is the ideal pace (+ the North if time allows). Under 10 days: not realistic, too much travel time.
When is the best season, really?
October-November (spring, 15-25°C, everything in bloom) or March-April (autumn, crystal-clear skies). February is high summer: hot but very touristy and expensive. July is dry winter but cold, ideal for whales at Península Valdés.
Is Buenos Aires dangerous?
Buenos Aires is safe by day in the tourist districts (San Telmo, La Boca, Recoleta). Take a little care at night in the centre (though less than in Madrid). The countryside and Patagonia are very safe. With common sense, no trouble at all.
Do you really need to rent a car?
Buenos Aires: no, taxis and Uber are everywhere. Mendoza: highly recommended (the wineries are spread out). Patagonia: 4x4 rental + local guide = comfort and safety. Or long-distance buses (comfortable).
What's a realistic budget for 15 days?
€3,500–5,500 all-in per person (€1,200 flight, €50–80/night accommodation, €20–40/day food, plus activities/transport). You can save on lodging, but Argentina already offers excellent value for money.
What language do they speak, is it manageable without Spanish?
The Spanish is clear, with the Rioplatense accent. Guides, hotels and tourist restaurants get by in basic English. A few words of Spanish open doors, and a translation app is more than enough to get around.
Argentina won't fit into a single trip. But your first one? We'll make sure you never forget it.
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