Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires often referred to as the “Paris of South America,” is the vibrant capital of Argentina and home to some of the most attractive sites in the country. Many beautiful parks, world-renowned museums, and grand plazas adorn the city’s landscape and make for an unforgettable experience. Furthermore, the city has an array of diverse architecture, culture, and cuisine that will keep you entertained.
Let’s take a look at some of Buenos Aires’ most prized attractions:
Visit the Iconic Obelisco
The iconic Obelisco de Buenos Aires stands in the center of Plaza de la República and is one of the most iconic and recognizable landmarks in Buenos Aires. The Obelisco, built in 1936, symbolizes Argentina’s independence and the national pride felt by all Argentines. Standing 87 feet tall, it has come to symbolize the spirit of the people and serves as a reminder of their freedom.
Visitors can climb to the top of the Obelisco for a fantastic view over downtown Buenos Aires and take a tour of its basement, which functions as an interactive museum where visitors can learn more about its construction, history, and cultural importance.
When you visit Plaza de la República, don’t forget to take a photo with the Obelisco! Seeing it up close will leave you with lasting memories that will become part of your experience traveling in Argentina.
Explore the Colorful Neighborhoods
Buenos Aires is filled with diverse and colorful neighborhoods with cultures and attractions. From the barrios of San Telmo to La Boca, these vibrant areas provide an excellent opportunity to explore some of Argentina’s history and culture.
San Telmo is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Buenos Aires, characterized by its cobbled streets lined with antique stores and cafes. In the center of this neighborhood, you will find the Plaza Dorrego, a busy spot filled with people selling antiques, souvenirs, art, and other items. Every Sunday morning, hundreds of vintage traders come here to set up their stalls in what has become known as ‘El Caminito’ (or ‘The Little Walkway’). The nearby Iglesia de San Pedro Telmo also houses an impressive neo-classical façade built around 1842.
Just outside of San Telmo is La Boca, another popular destination within Buenos Aires that offers tourists a unique mix of architecture and art. This neighborhood is famous for its brightly painted houses – known as Caminito – which have been delighting visitors since 1950 when renowned artist Benito Quinquela Martín formed it as an ‘open-air museum for the people.’ La Boca’s central attraction is also home to various restaurants and traditional art galleries selling local artists’ work from large canvases to postcards – perfect for acquiring souvenirs from your visit.
The abutting neighborhood known as Puerto Madero offers a more sophisticated atmosphere favored by those looking for excellent restaurants offering delicious meals overlooking beautiful waterways teeming with wildlife such as flamingos, ducks, and swans. It has been dubbed one of the most modern parts of Buenos Aires, with numerous sites showcased along its waterfronts, such as museums, outdoor exhibitions, and events all year round, making it perfect for enjoying strolls or long bike rides alike while taking in breathtaking views across the cityscape.
Check Out the Street Art
Buenos Aires is a street artist’s dream destination. From colorful murals to stunning graffiti displays, there is plenty to explore. In addition, many artists use their works to express political and/or social issues, making the streets of Buenos Aires a veritable outdoor art gallery.
The best way to take it all in is by wandering through the city’s diverse neighborhoods and discovering new artworks around every corner. Experiencing this vibrant work up close helps to provide perspectives into the beautiful culture that makes up Buenos Aires. While exploring the streets of Palermo, San Telmo, and La Boca, visitors can observe some of the most creative designs and thought-provoking pieces in South America.
Walking around Buenos Aires offers insight into the city’s art scene as well as its history; many districts within have been reshaped over time due to oppressive governments and economic turmoil – yet artists continue to make their mark on these areas banded together by shared truths and untold stories that speak louder than words. The hope within an artist’s brushstrokes is more meaningful today than ever – a hopefulness reflective of Mexico’s recovery from past turmoil and its efforts toward a brighter future – piece by piece through street art bearing witness to social revival.
If you want to learn more about its unique culture, get special insights into local artists’ perspectives, or even join workshops or activities aimed at further understanding its street culture, join walking tours led by locally based guides who have studied this street art movement firsthand. Another great way is through guided bike tours around Los Pinos or San Telmo neighborhoods, where you can listen to stories while marveling at iconic pieces of work like Don Juan de la Sierra’s mural on Uruguayan Cultural Center or fangobelix – just one example of AiBorges’ winning combination (AI + Borges) whether visiting vintage collectives in Recoleta or admiring stunning murals in Palermo Soho – explore with an intriguing guide who knows Buenos Aires like no other!
Patagonia
Patagonia is a region in Argentina renowned for its beauty and captivating landscapes. It includes the Andes mountain range and the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, two of the world’s most magnificent bodies of water. Patagonia is a must-see destination for those traveling to Argentina, with its mix of snow-capped peaks, forests, glaciers, unique wildlife, and pristine lakes. So get ready to explore one of the most awe-inspiring places in the world.
Visit the Perito Moreno Glacier
The Perito Moreno Glacier is a stunning sight in the southern reach of Patagonia, Argentina. This advancing glacier is one of the only ones still growing and one of 47 Patagonian glaciers fed by the Southern Patagonian Ice Field. At 48km long and over 5km wide, this natural wonder is also one of the world’s most accessible glaciers for visitors.
The best way to experience the glacier is to take part in a tour that entails a guided trek on the glacier itself or even kayaking trips from channels nearby. Walks on raft-like glacial trailers can be done without previous mountaineering knowledge or experience. Explorers can make their way up to some of the most impressive ice cliffs, considered among some of the highest in Patagonia, for incredible views and photos.
If you can look past its beauty, it’s easy to understand why people have named this marvel The White Giant, as its volume spans a whopping 166 km3 (40 cubic miles). For visitors looking to learn more information about this beautiful natural wonder, The Glaciarium located in El Calafate offers a multimedia exhibition explaining important topics about glaciers, such as history, geology, and glaciology, as well as climate change’s influence on these amazing feats of nature.
Take a Boat Ride on Lake Argentino
Lake Argentino is located in the Santa Cruz Province in southern Argentina and is part of the Lago Argentino-Los Glaciares National Park. The lake is incredibly picturesque on a sunny day when its waters turn deep blue while surrounded by snow-capped mountains, creating a stunning contrast.
The best way to experience this majestic body of water is to take a boat ride and marvel at the magnificent landscape. Regular boat trips are available from the city of El Calafate (also home to numerous other tourist attractions). These boat excursions usually feature knowledgeable guides who can explain the wildlife in this remote region and share stories about local landmarks.
Many trips also stop at several points of interest around the lake’s lush shoreline, including Puerto Bandera, where one can take photos of powerful waterfalls cascading down nearby glaciers. In addition, visitors may get up close and personal with some of the resident fauna such as ducks, geese, and various species of fish like perch and pejerrey.
Whatever your reason for visiting Patagonia is, taking an hour’s tour on Lake Argentino should be on your itinerary!
Explore the Stunning Torres del Paine National Park
Located in the southern Patagonia region of Chile, Torres del Paine National Park is one of the most spectacular protected areas in the world. The park features crystal-clear glacial lakes, jagged mountain peaks, dramatic glaciers, and unique vegetation. Popular activities include trekking, camping, and wildlife watching.
The centerpiece of this national park is the distinctive towers (Torres) of granite that soar nearly 8,000 feet above sea level—the so-called “Paine Massif.” Other attractions include cascading waterfalls, glacier-fed rivers, alpine meadows, glacial beaches, and a variety of native wildlife, including guanacos (a species similar to llamas), pumas, condors, and foxes.
The park can be explored via specially designated trails with varying difficulty levels. Signposts along the trails provide helpful directions, information on wildlife viewing opportunities, and local history. In addition, seasonal shuttle services allow travelers to access more remote areas such as Valle del Francés (French Valley). Accommodations within the park range from camping sites to all-inclusive refugios/lodges offering guided excursions led by local guides.
Torres del Paine National Park is a natural UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers visitors unforgettable experiences in beautiful surroundings. This stunning area provides a glimpse into one of the wildest places on Earth and promises an excellent opportunity for exploration, adventure and discovery!
Iguazu Falls
Iguazu Falls are one of the most spectacular natural wonders in the world. Located on the border of Brazil and Argentina, this majestic waterfall comprises a series of cascades and waterfalls over two miles long. Iguazu Falls is an attraction that must be seen to be believed!
The falls are awe-inspiring, and the surrounding rainforests and jungle provide an exciting backdrop. From boat tours to hikes, there are a variety of activities to take part in around the falls for visitors to enjoy:
Take a Boat Ride to the Base of the Falls
For a more intimate tour of the falls, take a boat ride to the base of Iguazu. Nautical tourism companies operate from different points near the parks and offer transfer services that take guests closer to where Iguazu River meets Devil’s Throat.
The views from these boats are awe-inspiring as you get an up-close look at some of the tallest cascades at Iguazu. The trip usually lasts about 1 hour, but you can negotiate for additional hours depending on what you want to experience. Local professionals provide exciting information about the ecosystem and history of this unique place.
This tour allows visitors to observe wildlife and provides convenient access to multiple vantage points along some of the most beautiful islands near Iguazu. Throughout your ride, you’ll be able to listen to the breathtaking sound of cascading water that reveals why this has been one of Argentina’s favorite attractions for so many years!
Enjoy the Panoramic Views from the Observation Decks
The Iguazu Falls, located in the National Park of the same name on the border between Argentina and Brazil, are truly remarkable. With an average flow rate of 1020 cubic meters per second, they are one of the largest waterfalls in the world and certainly among the most spectacular.
Visitors to Iguazu can enjoy panoramic views from numerous observation decks scattered throughout the National Park area. The main deck overlooks a 180-degree bend in the Iguazu River as it cascades down 80 meters into a gap between rocky walls before continuing into a series of smaller falls.
From these decks, visitors can marvel at rainbows created by the sun reflecting on mist rising from below. The rocks near the bottom of some falls have been worn hollow by decades of powerful spray, forming natural basins filled with rushing white water, which visitors can explore on foot or swim in safely by boat. For those wanting an even closer look at these enormous cataracts, there are also observation platforms right at the top of some falls, allowing unimpeded views right down into their thunderous depths.
Visit the Devil’s Throat
The Devil’s Throat (Garganta del Diablo) is the most impressive of Iguazu Falls and the highlight of any visit here. The throat is the narrowest part of the Iguazu River, a U-shaped precipice leading down to two cataracts and an incredible roaring waterfall.
The throat has a precarious and wild beauty, as you observe it from its walkways, located on both sides of the Argentinean side of Iguazu National Park. You will feel awed in front of this spectacular view. To experience such magnificence from the center of this prodigy, take one of the boat trips offered at all times during summertime, or join our guided tours for even more adventures!
Our experienced local guides will explain to you how in 1934, when a hydroelectric power station was built right below Devil’s Throat dividing it into two parts – which gave rise to Upper and Lower Devil’s Throat – they were joined by several cascades and small waterfalls that enrich its beauty even more! So come along with us as we show you what makes this impressive scene unique!
Mendoza
Mendoza, the wine capital of Argentina, is one of the best places to visit in the country. Offering stunning views of the Andes Mountains and the world-famous Malbec vineyards, Mendoza is a picturesque destination for wine lovers and adventure seekers alike.
The city’s mix of modern and colonial architecture, vibrant nightlife, and delicious local cuisine make it the perfect destination for a memorable vacation.
Take a Wine Tour
Mendoza is widely renowned for its wineries and vineyards, and what better way to experience them than by taking a wine tour? A guide with local knowledge of the area can show you the best wineries and give you a fascinating insight into winemaking in Mendoza. Whether you are looking for a relaxed day trip or a more extended exploration, there are many options. Popular activities include tastings at boutique wineries, blending workshops, and vineyard tours that take you inside the cellar doors. Many tour operators also offer custom packages tailored to your interests and budget.
A great way to fully appreciate Argentina’s culture and customs is through its cuisine and wines, so why not merge the two by organizing an exclusive wine-and-food tasting tour? You’ll get a chance to savor some of Mendoza’s finest creations as you sample local cheeses, cured meats, and chocolate samples crafted from regional cocoa beans and indulge yourself in classic regional dips such as hummus from Arbelia or chimichurri from El Pantano. It could start a lifetime love affair with Argentina’s exquisite culinary offerings!
Visit the San Martin Park
San Martín Park is a great place to visit in Mendoza, Argentina. The park covers an expansive area of over 330 acres. There are many activities and attractions here, sure to entertain family and friends of all ages.
At the park, you can explore the numerous gardens that feature thousands of trees, as well as various plants and a variety of flora from around the world. The most impressive feature is the giant, old-fashioned carousel located in front. Perfect for children of any age!
Also located in the park are two fascinating museums: The Emilio Caraffa Fine Arts Museum and The Latin American Art Museum showing modern art from Latin countries like Argentina, Chile, and Uruguay. Both museums offer visitors an insight into local art culture and display beautiful artwork from acclaimed artists worldwide – something you won’t miss!
Sports fans will love visiting San Martín Park, too – there is plenty of room for outdoor games like soccer or volleyball. Plus, there are plenty of tracks and trails perfect for biking or strolling with a view of the beautiful lake Vivero where wildlife can be observed in its natural habitat.
San Martín Park offers a memorable experience to visitors looking to learn more about Argentina’s history and culture while having fun with family and friends alike!
Explore the Andes Mountains
The Andes Mountains offer various outdoor activities and are essential to the Argentinean landscape. However, if you’re looking to explore and experience the magnificent beauty of this mountain range, consider visiting Mendoza – a province in Argentina located on the eastern side of the border with Chile.
Mendoza is an ideal spot for those who want to take advantage of the stunning scenery, a wide variety of wildlife, and year-round adventure opportunities. From paragliding, hot air ballooning, biking, horseback riding, and trekking, Mendoza has something for every adventurer.
If you’re looking for great views while trekking through the mountains, consider taking a guided tour of Aconcagua – a mountain in the Andes that stands more than 22,837 feet tall. On your hike, you’ll pass babbling brooks, stunning waterfalls (known locally as ‘Cascada Guayacanes’), and beautiful snow-capped peaks. Be sure to bring along your camera!
For those looking for more leisurely activities while exploring Mendoza’s Andes Mountains region, head to La Laguna del Diablo. You can relax with friends or family at this mountain lake amid stunning views without ever leaving your car! You can also choose from several local hosterias that offer guided tours throughout Maipu (the wine country), which will take you through vineyards, wineries, and even small propper villages like Chimberaukue (the ‘cerro de la bruja’). In addition, there are opportunities to sample local delicacies, such as freshly made empanadas or chivitos (Argentinian sandwiches), at one roadside restaurant along your journey.
So whether you’re looking for an adrenaline-filled adventure or just searching for relaxation in beautiful surroundings, there’s something just waiting to be discovered deep in Mendoza’s beautiful Andes Mountains!
Salta
Salta is the capital city of the Argentinian province of the same name and is a bustling hub for culture, history, and entertainment. It is known for its many attractions, including the beautiful National Historical Museum, the stunning Iglesia San Francisco de Asis, and the stunning scenery of the surrounding countryside.
Exploring Salta can be an exciting experience, where you can taste Argentinian culture and the country’s fascinating history.
Visit the Colorful Colonial Buildings
Salta, Argentina, is a beautiful destination for travelers who appreciate nature and extraordinary history. Salta is located in the northwest region of Argentina and is home to colonial architecture and splashes of vibrant color throughout. In addition, the buildings showcase a mix of Native American, Spanish and Italian influences. You’ll be delighted by the sights as you stroll the streets – from colorful shutters to grand cathedrals and ancient ruins.
The heart of the city is Plaza 9 de Julio, a sprawling central square lined with colonial pillars and surrounded by pastel buildings on all sides. Take an hour to explore this area – take the impressive Baroque-style Catedral Basilica de Salta, admire artworks adorning many of the buildings, and take a relaxing break at La Casa del Folklor Argentino.
If you’re interested in learning more about Salta’s history and culture, visit MAAM Museo de Arqueología de Alta Montana or discover below-ground elements of Salta’s culture at Museo Casa Museum Pajcha de Cabra – both are located within walking distance from Plaza 9 de Julio. Whatever type of experience you’re looking for, you can find it in Salta’s historical landmarks and cultural sites drenched in colors from days gone by!
Explore the Quebrada de Cafayate
The Quebrada de Cafayate is a stunningly scenic and unique landscape in the Calchaquí Valleys, only a short distance from the provincial capital of Salta. This famous canyon is known for its striking red rocks due to its unique minerals stretching across the horizon as far as the eye can see. The landscape is incredibly diverse and rejuvenating; visitors will find high mountain ranges, desertic plains, imposing rocky formations, and shallow valleys dotted with trees.
The most convenient way to explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site is to go on a guided tour since several viewpoints are best accessed via a four-wheel drive. In addition, many local companies offer organized tours allowing you to explore deep into the canyons, admire wildlife such as lizards, birds, and llamas and learn about local history. Tours typically cover main attractions such as La Merced Church Ruins in El Carril village or Vino Talinay – a winery where you can sample local wines from Cafayate.
A visit to the Quebrada de Cafayate offers visitors an experience of beauty, tranquillity, and cultural heritage in Salta’s unique environment at its peak season between May-December when temperatures are moderate (perfect for walking) and days are clear – offering spectacular views of blue skies against red rocks along its trails.
Visit the Pre-Inca Ruins of Quilmes
Situated just a few kilometers from Salta, the ruins of Quilmes offer an amazing visit for anyone interested in ancient civilizations. Dating back to 1000 AD, the indigenous people built an impressive fortress that still stands proudly along the Quebrada de las Conchas ravine.
Visitors can explore and learn about Quilme’s advanced infrastructure; this includes streets, aqueducts, granaries, and twelve mountain-top lookouts that allow its ancient inhabitants to spot any potential intruders. There is also evidence of a religious center identified as a “cult pit” by archeologists. The remains of an abbey made of sandstone and decorated with typical motifs can be seen. One unusual feature is how they constructed their adobe dwellings on top of one another instead of in straight rows like those used by other civilizations, such as the Incas.
A traditional restaurant serving regional dishes provides ample opportunity for visitors to sample some local cuisine before heading home.