Safari to the clouds

Ranging from balmy subtropical reaches in the north to the frosty Antarctic shores of the Patagonian south, Argentina is one of the world’s most geographically diverse countries. Its kaleidoscope of landscapes offers endless adventure and leisure opportunities, and this natural variety – coupled with its warm, animated locals, delectable carnivorous cuisine, and fascinating history – makes it a captivating and unforgettable travel destination. Allow yourself to be spellbound by the spectacular torrents of Iguazu Falls, the sprawling ski slopes of Bariloche, the vibrant capital of Buenos Aires, or the age-old Inca city of Humahuaca. Argentina has gifts to delight and mesmerize even the most seasoned explorer.

Currency

Peso (ARS; symbol AR$) = 100 centavos. Peso notes are in denominations of AR$1000, 500, 200, 100, 50, 20 and 10. Coins are in denominations of AR$10,5, 2 and 1.

US Dollars are accepted in some hotels and tourist centres. Prices in US Dollars are typically marked with US$ to avoid confusion, but sometimes both peso and dollar prices are both preceded by just $, so check if unsure.

Banking

Banking hours: Monday-Friday 10h00-15h00.

Most major credit cards are accepted, but not as widely as in the US or Europe; even some major hotels do not have credit card facilities.

ATMs are available in most cities and have options in English, but it is still best to carry alternative forms of payment as daily withdrawal limits are low and machines don't always work. During national holidays ATMs can run out so it is wise to withdraw in advance.

Foreign tourists who are not resident in Argentina can no longer pay for tourism-related services (air tickets, bus travel, hotel rooms, all-inclusive tours etc) in Pesos. These services must be paid for with foreign credit and bank cards, money transfers (in foreign currencies) from abroad, in cash with foreign money (eg US Dollars) or with cheques from foreign accounts.

It is advised to bring traveller's cheques in US Dollars; these can be exchanged at banks, bureaux de change and some hotels. However, it is often difficult to exchange these in the smaller towns.

Air:

Main airlines: Aerolíneas Argentinas, LATAM Argentina

International Airports:Ministro Pistarini International Airport (Ezeiza), Jorge Newbery Airport (Aeroparque), Ingeniero Ambrosio Taravella International Airport (Córdoba), Governor Francisco Gabrielli International Airport (Mendoza).

Domestic Airports: Comandante Espora Airport (Bahía Blanca), Almirante Marcos A. Zar Airport (Trelew), Comodoro Rivadavia Airport (Comodoro Rivadavia), Sauce Viejo Airport (Santa Fe), San Juan Airport (San Juan), and San Luis Airport (San Luis).

Road:

Driving side: Right 

Tar roads: Yes Gravel roads: Yes Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes Car hire available: Yes Taxis: Yes E-hailing services: Yes

Bus:

Inter-city bus services: Yes

Local city bus networks: Yes

Rail:

Railway system: Yes

Subway System: Yes

Water:

Ferries: Yes 

Water taxis: Yes

Leisure cruises: Yes

Food and water safety:

Can you drink the tap water: No

Fresh fruit and veg: Yes, if washed well or peeled

Ice: Yes, but check if it is tap water

Meat: Yes

Street food: Yes

Local cuisine:

Argentine cuisine is known for its beef, especially the famous Argentine steak. Other traditional dishes include empanadas, choripán (sausage sandwich), and locro (a hearty stew). The country is also renowned for its wines, particularly Malbec, and yerba mate, a traditional South American infused drink.

Tipping: 10-15%

Annual rainfall: Varies by region

Average temperature: 18°C

Summer:

Average highs: 30°C

Average lows: 20°C

Winter:

Average highs: 15°C

Average lows: 5°C

Best time to visit:

The best time to visit Argentina is during the spring (September to November) and fall (March to May) when the weather is mild and pleasant.

Spring and Summer

Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes

Lightweight warm clothes: No

Winter and Autumn

Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended

Heavyweight clothing and boots: Yes

General

Umbrella and raincoat: Yes

Warm gloves, hat and scarf: Yes 

Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes

Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes

Walking shoes: Yes Casual: Yes

Smart-casual attire: Yes

Plug Type: Type C, Type I 

Voltage (V): 220V

 Frequency Hertz (Hz): 50Hz

* A travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances.