Places to Visit in Argentina

Argentina’s cosmopolitan capital is a city of elegant architecture, leafy neighbourhoods and an infectious passion for food, wine and culture. Wander the cobbled streets of San Telmo, browse the boutiques of Palermo, admire grand Belle Époque buildings in Recoleta and experience the city’s famous late-night dining scene, where exceptional steakhouses, lively cafés and tango all play their part.

Bordering Argentina and Brazil, this is one of the world’s greatest natural wonders. Iguazú Falls is a breathtaking network of more than 270 cascades surrounded by lush subtropical rainforest. Explore a series of walkways that bring you astonishingly close to the water, take a boat beneath the falls or look out for toucans, coatis and butterflies in the surrounding national park.

Argentina’s northwest feels a world apart, with red-rock valleys, salt flats, high-altitude vineyards and deeply rooted Andean culture. Travel between Salta, Cafayate and the Quebrada de Humahuaca, stopping for colonial towns, colourful mountains, traditional markets and some of the most dramatic desert scenery in South America.

Mendoza is Argentina’s great wine region, backed by the snow-capped Andes and home to some of South America’s most accomplished vineyards. Spend your days tasting Malbec, long lunches among the vines, horse riding in the foothills or exploring the Uco Valley, where sharp mountain light gives everything a wonderful sense of place.

El Calafate is the gateway to Los Glaciares National Park and the mighty Perito Moreno Glacier. Beyond the ice, cruise across Lago Argentino to remote Estancia Cristina, where dramatic mountain scenery, fossil-filled valleys and the rich history of Patagonian ranching offer a fascinating glimpse into life at the edge of the Andes.

Set beneath the granite spires of Mount Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre, El Chaltén is Argentina’s hiking capital. Trails lead to turquoise lakes, hanging glaciers and spectacular viewpoints, while quieter paths, fly-fishing rivers and horseback rides reveal a more peaceful side to this extraordinary corner of Patagonia.

One of South America’s greatest wildlife sanctuaries, the Iberá Wetlands are a haven of marshes, lagoons and grasslands. Explore by boat, on foot or on horseback in search of capybara, caiman, marsh deer and, with luck, jaguars, while staying at beautifully restored estancias that have played a leading role in the region’s remarkable conservation success.

Córdoba combines rolling sierras, historic estancias and a rich gaucho heritage. Spend your days riding across open countryside, enjoying traditional asados and exploring beautifully preserved Jesuit estancias, where Argentina’s rural traditions and warm hospitality have changed little over the centuries.

Patagonia Azul protects one of Argentina’s least explored stretches of coastline, where rugged cliffs, secluded bays and rich marine life define the landscape. Cruise or kayak through crystal-clear waters, visit remote islands alive with penguins and sea lions and, in season, look out for whales as you discover one of Patagonia’s best-kept secrets.

Snow-capped volcanoes, crystal-clear lakes and ancient forests make the Argentine Lake District one of the country’s most beautiful regions. Explore by boat, kayak or on foot, stay in elegant lakeside lodges and discover a landscape where Andean scenery meets exceptional food, craft chocolate and outdoor adventure.

Tierra del Fuego is more than the gateway to Antarctica. At the southern tip of Argentina, this remote region combines windswept mountains, forests, channels and frontier history. Explore Ushuaia, hike in Tierra del Fuego National Park or cruise towards Cape Horn through one of South America’s most dramatic seascapes.