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.
Entry Requirements
Valid passport.
If the itinerary inclues limitting coutries, the passport must valid for 6 months.
Banking and Currency
Currency
Local currency: Argentine Peso
Symbol: $
ISO code: ARS
Subunit: Centavo
Banknotes: $5, $10, $20, $50, $100, $200, $500, $1000
Coins: 1¢, 5¢, 10¢, 25¢, 50¢, $1, $2, $5, $10
Banking
Card Transactions: Yes
ATMs: Yes
Mastercard: Yes
Visa: Yes
American Express: Yes
Diner’s club: Yes
Banking Hours:
Weekdays: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Weekends: Closed
Public Holidays: Yes
Foreign exchange services: Yes
Travel, Transport and Getting Around
Air:
Main airlines: Aerolíneas Argentinas, LATAM Argentina
International Airports: Ministro Pistarini International Airport (Ezeiza), Jorge Newbery Airfield (Aeroparque)
Domestic Airports: Ingeniero Ambrosio Taravella International Airport (Cordoba), Governor Francisco Gabrielli International Airport (Mendoza)
Road:
Driving on the: 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, Drink and Cuisine Advice
Food and water safety:
Can you drink the tap water: No
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes, if washed well or peeled
Ice: Yes, bt 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%
Climate and Weather
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.
Clothing and Dress Recommendations
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
Internet Availability
Internet cafes: Yes
Accommodation options: Yes
Restaurants: Yes
Cafes: Yes
Shopping malls: Yes
Public parks: Yes
Libraries: Yes
Electricity and Plug Standards
The official standard for plugs and sockets (outlets) in Argentina is the "Type I" IRAM-2073 which is practically interchangeable with the standards in Australia and China. However, many non-grounded sockets in Argentina are the "Type C" Europlug type. If your appliance's plug doesn't match the shape of these sockets, you will need one or more travel plug adapters in order to plug in. Travel plug adapters simply change the shape of your appliance's plug to match whatever type of socket you need to plug into. If it is crucial to be able to plug in no matter what, bring an adapter for both types.
Electrical sockets (outlets) in Argentina usually supply electricity at between 220 and 240 volts AC. If you're plugging in an appliance that was built for 220-240 volt electrical input, or an appliance that is compatible with multiple voltages, then an adapter is all you need.
But travel plug adapters do not change the voltage, so the electricity coming through the adapter will still be the same 220-240 volts the socket is supplying. If your appliance is not compatible with 220-240 volts, you will need a voltage converter.