Antartic camping, the supreme polar adventure

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 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 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% 

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. 

The southernmost of the Earth’s mapped five major circles of latitude, the Antarctic Circle is renowned for its extremely icy air, stark wilderness landscapes and exotic wildlife. The continent of Antarctica falls within the area of the Antarctic Circle. Visitors can experience the midnight sun and polar nights, explore the remote landscapes of the Antarctic Peninsula, view majestic icebergs and spot an array of wildlife such as: humpback whales, leopard seal, penguins, giant petrels and many more. The Crossing of the famed Antarctic Circle is an activity that few others can claim. Enjoy an expedition into this vast white wilderness starring snow, ice, and water in this breathtakingly beautiful winter paradise.

Currency 

Local currency: No local currency 
Symbol: N/A 
ISO code: N/A 
Subunit: N/A 
Banknotes: N/A 
Coins: N/A 

Banking 

Card Transactions: No 
ATMs: No 
Mastercard: No 
Visa: No 
American Express: No 
Diner’s club: No 

Banking Hours: Not applicable 
Weekdays: Not applicable 
Weekends: Not applicable 
Public Holidays: Not applicable 
Foreign exchange services: Not applicable 

Air: 
Main airlines: No commercial airlines 
International Airports: Limited research stations with airstrips 
Domestic Airports: Limited research station airstrips 

Road: 
Driving on the: Not applicable 
Tar roads: No 
Gravel roads: No 
Valid International Driver's License needed: Not applicable 
Car hire available: Not applicable 
Taxis: No 
E-hailing services: No 

Bus: 
Inter-city bus services: No 
Local city bus networks: No 

Rail: 
Railway system: No 
Subway System: No 

Water: 
Ferries: No 
Water taxis: Limited availability near research stations 
Leisure cruises: Yes, there are expedition ships and cruises: 
Expedition ships and cruises offer a popular means of exploring Antarctica. They provide comprehensive travel packages including accommodations, meals, and guided excursions. Several reputable cruise operators offer voyages to Antarctica during the austral summer season, typically departing from Ushuaia, Argentina, or Punta Arenas, Chile. These voyages provide a unique opportunity to experience the awe-inspiring landscapes, abundant wildlife, and scientific research stations of Antarctica. 

Food and water safety: 
Can you drink the tap water: No 
Fresh fruit and veg: Limited availability 
Ice: No 
Meat: Limited availability 
Street food: No 

Local cuisine: Antarctica does not have a native human population, so there is no local cuisine. 

Drinks: No notable local drinks 

Tipping: Not applicable 

Annual rainfall: Low to zero (Very rare)

Average temperature: -37°C 

Summer: 
Average highs: -20°C 
Average lows: -40°C 

Winter: 
Average highs: -30°C 
Average lows: -50°C 

Best time to visit: Antarctica's climate is extreme and inhospitable, making it challenging to visit outside of scientific expeditions. However, for tourists, the austral summer from November to March offers slightly milder temperatures and 24-hour daylight, making it the best time for expeditions and wildlife viewing. 

Spring and Summer 
Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Not applicable 
Lightweight warm clothes: Yes 

Winter and Autumn 
Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended 
Heavyweight clothing and boots: Yes 

General 
Umbrella and raincoat: No 
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: Yes 
Swimming costume (bathing suit): No 
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes 
Walking shoes: Yes 
Casual: No 
Smart-casual attire: No 

Plug Type: Type C, Type E, Type F 
Voltage (V): 220 
Frequency Hertz (Hz): 50 

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