Argentina Travel Guide

Best Time To Visit

When to go

Covering a large distance, Argentina can be visited all year round. However, the southern half of the country is best visited between October and April, with the peak months being December to February. Even in these months the weather can be unpredictable. The northwest of the country is best visited between April and December when the weather is characterised by sunny days. The Iguassu Falls are an all year round destination and can become very hot and humid between December and April, but cooler at other times of the year.

Getting there 

The main entry point by air into Argentina is Buenos Aires. British Airways operates a direct service from London Heathrow. Several European and South American airlines, such as TAM Airlines, fly to Buenos Aires via their home hubs.  

Time Zone 

GMT -3 hours

Visas 

British passport holders do not require a visa to enter Argentina.

Health 

There are no compulsory vaccinations required to enter Argentina. Always consult your doctor at least six weeks before travel and refer to this useful NHS website - Fit For Travel - for details of recommended vaccinations for Argentina.

Things To Do

• See a tango show in La Boca district, Buenos Aires
• Seek out the marshland wildlife of the Iberá Wetlands
• Gaze over the mighty Iguaçu Falls
• Sample Argentina’s world famous wines
• Be inspired by the Perito Moreno Glacier in Glaciers National Park
• Take a day trip from Buenos Aires to Colonia in Uruguay
• See the Southern Right whales in the Valdes Peninsula,  July - November

FAQ

Why travel to Argentina?

Argentina really is such a diverse country with a whole host of world-class attractions. From the vast dramatic expanses of Patagonia in the south to the jaw-droppingly beautiful Lake District straddling the Chilean border; the fertile wine region of Mendoza to the Andean landscapes and less explored and fascinating indigenous villages in the North West. You also have the breathtaking Iguazu Falls, wildlife-rich Ibera Wetlands and of course the cosmopolitan city of Buenos Aires. Whatever interests you, Argentina will have something that grabs your attention!

How much of a culture shock is travelling to Argentina?

Argentina is a well developed country with a good transport system and infrastructure. Most people are of European descent so it feels very familiar to British and travellers from the continent. Buenos Aires the capital city is often referred to as the ‘Paris of South America’. 

How do we get there?

The quickest way to travel is direct with British Airways to Buenos Aires. Other airlines such as Iberia, Air France and TAM Brazil also serve Buenos Aires and you can also travel via the USA.

How do I travel around the country?

Argentina is a huge country so on a short trip the easiest way to fully experience the country is to use the domestic flight network. Aerolineas Argentinas & LAN Argentina serve all the major airports. Despite being so remote, areas like Patagonia for example are surprisingly easy to get to – a three hour flight from Buenos Aries to Ushuaia, and then there is a network of efficient, comfortable buses. There are regular hydrofoils between Buenos Aries and Montevideo or Colonia in Uruguay, which makes a great extension to a holiday in the capital.  

Is Buenos Aires safe?

Buenos Aires is just as safe as any other major city in South America. Take the normal precautions you would in any other city such as not having expensive jewellery on show. Likewise with travel throughout the country - just be sensible.

Is there a good range of accommodation in Argentina?

Hotel facilities are excellent and similar to those found in Europe. There are some impressive hotels in Buenos Aires, like the new Philippe Starck designed Faena & Universe or the grand dame, Alvear Palace, one of South America's best known hotels, if you are looking for 5-star. All the main cities have a host of boutique hotel options which are full of character and very popular – these tend to be smaller properties with a more personal feel. Generally we’d suggest a minimum of 3-star properties which are clean and comfortable, with many extremely well located for exploring Argentina’s natural wonders.

What is the local cuisine like?

Argentina is highly influenced by Europe and this is reflected in the cuisine which is generally a variation of Mediterranean cooking. It’s a country famous for huge slabs of steak, washed down with delicious Argentine red wine - the most popular way to eat meat is asado (barbecued).  For vegetarians there are plenty of options with bean and maize dishes widely available. Malbec from the Mendoza region is a widely drunk red wine and one I recommend.

Is there any activity you strongly recommend we do?

It’s hard to pick one thing. Definitely visit a tango show in Buenos Aires and watch the sultry, sensual dance, or go to one of the many ‘milonga’ clubs where tango lovers go dancing. For nature lovers, you can explore the wilderness of southern Patagonia and the impressive Perito Moreno glacier or the mighty Iguazu falls.

Is English widely spoken?

All the hotels we offer have English speaking staff whilst in the main tourist hubs you will find English speakers. A rudimentary knowledge of some Spanish phrases will go long way.

How can I contribute to the local economy and conservation programmes?

Buy local products and reward good service with a tip as these go straight to the guides and are greatly appreciated. The LATA Foundation sources projects and raises funds for charitable work throughout Latin America, in Buenos Aires free dental treatment is provided to disadvantaged children.  By the end of this year they will have provided 40,000 treatments to around 5,500 children.  For more information visit the LATA website or ring me for a chat.  www.latafoundation.org.

Can I drink the tap water?

Tap water is generally considered to be safe for drinking but we usually recommend people stick with bottled water.

Do I need to get any vaccinations?

The standard vaccinations are recommended – see Fit for Travel www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk which provides advice for all destinations.  Always see your doctor at least siz weeks before travel. Malaria protection is not normally required although we do recommend mosquito repellent in the Ibera and Iguazu regions.

I am pregnant, can I travel to Argentina?

Facilities in Argentina are excellent so there is no reason not to travel. However, remember that the North Western region is at altitude so do check with your GP before you travel.