Patagonia 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$100, 50, 20, 10, and 5. Coins are in denominations of AR$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 US Dollars; these can be exchanged at banks, bureaux de change and some hotels.

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 

Buenos Aires is generally a safe city (the second safest in Latin America) but there are a few things that you should keep in mind. 30% of the population in Argentina lives below the poverty line. Since the economy collapsed in Argentina in 2001 street crime has increased. Like any Capital city, tourists can be a natural target if you do not use your common sense.

The best advice is to ensure that you do not wear any expensive jewelry at any time. Do not walk around with your passports or large amounts of cash or a huge camera hanging from your neck. Do not keep all of your ID, VISA cards, debit cards etc in one place. Your hotel will have a safe – take complete advantage of it. If you use your common sense as you would do at home, you will be fine.

Again, like any Capital city, there are certain neighbourhoods to avoid at night. We will advise you on arrival of these areas.

Tap water is generally considered safe in main cities and towns, especially in Buenos Aires, but otherwise bottled water is recommended. If bottled water is unavailable then boil water for over a minute before drinking.

Argentina serves up an exceptional standard of food, although choices can often be restricted to meat, pasta and pizza. Buenos Aires, however, offers a wide selection of culinary genres, with Japanese, Thai and Asian-fusion food becoming increasingly popular. Vegetarians may struggle to find extensive veggie options, but most restaurants do serve vegetables and salads. Outside Buenos Aires, however, vegetarians may be faced with quite limited choices.

Wherever you are in the country, meat is the name of the game here, and if you fancy broadening your carnivorous horizons, then there is a weird and wonderful array of meat treats to get stuck into. The traditional Argentine parrilla (grill) is the very heart and soul of Argentina's cuisine. Sample morcilla (blood sausage), chinchulines (intestines), or simply go for a slab of prime Argentine beef - all sizzled to perfection. Don’t forget to liberally douse your chosen meats in delicious chimichurri – a sauce made from finely chopped parsley and oregano, garlic, olive oil and vinegar. Those after an authentic and reliably delicious meat experience in Buenos Aires, try El Trapiche in Palermo, and Desnivel in San Telmo.

For breakfast, head to a traditional confitería (café) and sample a few medialunas (small, croissant-like pastries) and a strong café con leche. In cities, fashionable resto-bars (restaurant-bars) are taking hold, offering more contemporary takes on traditional Argentine cuisine, and all manner of lunch options. A strong Italian influence means quality ice cream is also popular, and in summertime Buenos Aires the many gelaterias (ice cream parlours) are certainly worth making use of. In the evening, Argentines dine late - 9pm is considered early – and the feasts are typically massive.

Argentina's wines have flooded the international market in recent years, and are famed for their quality and value. Try a light pinot noir from Patagonia or an inky and smooth Malbec, and don’t miss Argentina’s celebrated white, the aromatic Torrontés.

Around 10% is acceptable in restaurants as well as bars (unless you were dissatisfied) which waiting staff rely on to survive.

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.