Argentina Travel Guide: Essential Tips

Explore Argentina: From Buenos Aires to Patagonia’s Wilderness

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The 15 Most Searched Questions About Argentina

The capital of Argentina is Buenos Aires, known for its tango culture and historic architecture.

Many nationalities can enter visa-free for up to 90 days. More details in our Documents tab.

Argentina uses the Argentine Peso (ARS). More details in our Currency tab.

Tourist areas like Buenos Aires are generally safe, but caution is advised in some regions. More details in our Safety tab.

Spanish is the official language, with a distinct Argentine accent. English is common in tourist areas.

Argentina is known for tango, Iguazu Falls, and its beef. More details in our Top Attractions tab.

Spring (September to November) and fall (March to May) are ideal for mild weather in Buenos Aires and Patagonia.

Argentina can be affordable due to currency fluctuations—a daily budget of $60-$100 covers most expenses.

Tap water is generally safe in cities like Buenos Aires but may vary elsewhere—bottled water costs $0.50-$1 per liter.

Must-visits include Buenos Aires, Iguazu Falls, and Mendoza. More details in our Top Attractions tab.

Buenos Aires has a temperate climate (15-30°C), while Patagonia can be cold (0-15°C). Summer (December-February) is hot and humid in the north.

Yes, Carnival in February and the Tango Festival in August are major events in Buenos Aires.

Popular souvenirs include leather goods, mate gourds, and Malbec wine.

Buses, domestic flights, and trains are common. A bus from Buenos Aires to Mendoza costs $40-$60 and takes 14 hours.

Try asado, empanadas, and dulce de leche. More details in our Local Cuisine tab.

About Argentina

Argentina, a South American country, spans 2.78 million square kilometers. Buenos Aires, the capital, is home to 15 million people, part of Argentina’s total population of 46 million (2023 estimate), with ethnic groups including European descendants (mostly Italian and Spanish), mestizos, and Indigenous peoples. Spanish is the official language, spoken with a distinct Argentine accent, and English is common in tourist areas. Many nationalities can enter visa-free for up to 90 days. In 2023, Argentina welcomed over 5 million tourists, drawn by Buenos Aires’ tango culture, Iguazu Falls, and Patagonia’s glaciers. The economy relies on agriculture (soy, beef), mining, and tourism. Argentina’s climate varies: Buenos Aires is temperate (15-30°C), Patagonia can be cold (0-15°C), and the north is subtropical (20-35°C), with summer (December-February) being hot and humid. Budget travelers can manage on $60-$100 per day, with a local meal costing $5-$10 and a coffee $1-$3. Public transport includes buses ($0.50-$60 for long routes) and domestic flights ($70-$200 for short routes), while car rentals start at $30 per day. Cultural events like Carnival (February) and the Tango Festival (August) highlight Argentina’s traditions. Its history includes Spanish colonization in the 16th century, independence in 1816, and a rich gaucho (cowboy) heritage, reflected in sites like San Telmo in Buenos Aires and the Jesuit ruins in Córdoba. Known for asado, Malbec wine, and mate tea, Argentina offers a mix of vibrant cities, natural wonders, and cultural depth, making it a top destination for travelers.

Visa & Passport for Argentina: Entry Requirements for Travelers

  • Passport Requirements: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your entry date into Argentina and have at least one blank page for stamps. Children need their own passports—they cannot travel on a parent’s passport.
  • Visa Requirements: Citizens of the US, Canada, EU, and many other countries can enter visa-free for up to 90 days for tourism. A reciprocity fee is no longer required as of 2025. Overstaying can result in fines of $50-$100, payable at immigration offices.
  • Other Requirements: No mandatory vaccinations are required, but hepatitis A and typhoid vaccines are recommended for rural areas. Travel insurance covering medical emergencies and outdoor activities (e.g., hiking in Patagonia) is advised.

Driving in Argentina: Road Rules & Tips for Tourists

  • Driver’s License: Your national driver’s license is valid for 90 days—an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended. Car rentals in Buenos Aires start at $30 per day; 4x4s are advised for Patagonia at $50 per day.
  • Road Rules: Drive on the right side of the road. Speed limits are 60 km/h in urban areas and 120 km/h on highways. Seat belts are mandatory, and the legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%—fines for violations start at 20,000 ARS ($20 as of 2025, but rates may vary).
  • Road Conditions: Major highways like Route 40 are paved, but rural roads in Patagonia can be gravel and challenging. Avoid driving at night in remote areas due to wildlife and poor lighting.
  • Transport: Buses from Buenos Aires to Mendoza cost $40-$60 and take 14 hours. Domestic flights to Bariloche cost $70-$200 and take 2 hours.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 911 for police or medical emergencies.

Currency in Argentina: Using the Peso for Your Trip

  • Argentine Peso (ARS): The official currency. Banknotes come in denominations of 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1,000, and 2,000 ARS; coins are 1, 2, 5, and 10 ARS.
  • Currency Exchange: Exchange money at banks or authorized counters in Buenos Aires—avoid street vendors due to scams. ATMs are widely available, with withdrawal fees of 500-1,000 ARS ($0.50-$1) for international cards, though rates fluctuate.
  • Payment Methods: US dollars are often accepted in tourist areas but exchange to ARS for better rates. Cards are accepted in cities; cash is needed in rural areas. Mobile payments like Google Pay are growing but not universal.
  • Costs: A local meal costs $5-$10, a coffee $1-$3, and a souvenir like a mate gourd costs $10-$20.

Legal Guide for Argentina: Laws Travelers Should Know

  • Local Laws: Drug possession is illegal—penalties include up to 12 years in prison. Public intoxication can lead to fines of 5,000 ARS ($5, subject to exchange rate).
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Respect gaucho traditions in rural areas—avoid mocking local customs. More details in the Culture & Etiquette tab.
  • Photography Restrictions: Photography at Iguazu Falls is unrestricted for personal use, but drones require permits—fines for violations start at 10,000 ARS ($10).
  • Public Behavior: Public nudity is illegal—fines start at 15,000 ARS ($15). Littering incurs fines of 5,000 ARS ($5).
  • Customs Rules: You can bring up to 2 liters of alcohol and 400 cigarettes duty-free. Declare cash over $10,000 or its equivalent in ARS.
  • Emergency Contact: Dial 911 for police or medical emergencies.

Travel Safety in Argentina: Staying Safe During Your Trip

  • Crime: Tourist areas like Buenos Aires are generally safe, but petty theft can occur—keep valuables secure. Avoid high-crime areas like certain parts of La Boca at night.
  • Road Safety: Major roads are safe, but rural routes in Patagonia can be hazardous—use GPS and avoid night driving. Public transport in cities like Buenos Aires is reliable—use the Subte (subway) for $0.50 per ride.
  • Health Risks: Tap water is generally safe in cities but may vary in rural areas—use bottled water if unsure. Mosquito-borne diseases like dengue are a risk in the north—use repellent.
  • Natural Hazards: Patagonia can experience strong winds and sudden weather changes—check forecasts. Flooding is possible in the north during summer (December-February).
  • Outdoor Safety: In Patagonia, stick to marked trails during hikes—weather can change rapidly. Carry a first-aid kit for remote areas.
  • Medical Facilities: Hospital Italiano in Buenos Aires is recommended for emergencies. Pharmacies are widespread—look for the “Farmacia” sign.
  • Emergency Contacts: Dial 911 for police or medical emergencies. The US Embassy in Buenos Aires can be reached at +54 11 5777-4354.

Culture & Etiquette in Argentina: What to Know

  • Greetings: A handshake or “Hola” is common; close friends may hug or kiss on the cheek. Use “Señor” or “Señora” with elders.
  • Dining Customs: Tipping is not mandatory—10% is appreciated in restaurants. Meals are social—expect late dinners, often after 9 PM.
  • Community Respect: Respect gaucho traditions in rural areas—don’t mock cowboy culture. Dress smartly in Buenos Aires, especially for tango shows.
  • Festivals: Carnival in February features parades in Buenos Aires. The Tango Festival in August showcases dance performances.
  • Language Tips: Argentines are warm—learning “Gracias” (thank you) or “Por favor” (please) is appreciated. Their Spanish has a unique accent, often using “vos” instead of “tú”.
  • Social Practices: Sharing mate (a traditional tea) is a bonding ritual—accept it if offered. Punctuality is relaxed, especially for social events.

Local Cuisine in Argentina: Dishes & Drinks to Try

  • Asado: A traditional barbecue with various cuts of beef—$10-$20 per person.
  • Empanadas: Savory pastries filled with meat or cheese—$1-$3 each.
  • Dulce de Leche: A caramel-like spread used in desserts—$2-$5 for a jar.
  • Malbec Wine: A bold red wine from Mendoza—$5-$10 per glass.
  • Mate: A traditional herbal tea, often shared—$1-$2 for a serving.
  • Where to Eat: In Buenos Aires, try asado at La Cabrera. In Mendoza, local wineries serve Malbec with regional dishes. Both are highlighted in our Top Attractions tab.

Top Attractions in Argentina: Must-Visit Places

Flights to Argentina: Travel Options

Ezeiza International Airport (EZE) in Buenos Aires is the main gateway, with flights from New York, London, and São Paulo. A taxi from EZE to central Buenos Aires costs $20-$30 and takes 45 minutes. Domestic flights to Bariloche cost $70-$200 and take 2 hours.

Create Your Packing List for Argentina

Travel Tips for Argentina

  • Connectivity: SIM cards from Claro or Movistar offer 5-10 GB for $10-$20, available at the airport. Wi-Fi is common in hotels but spotty in rural areas like Patagonia.
  • Health Prep: Hepatitis A and typhoid vaccines are recommended for rural areas. Carry insect repellent for the north (Iguazu Falls).
  • Weather Prep: Pack layers for Patagonia—temperatures can drop to 0°C. Include sunscreen for high UV levels in the Andes and a rain jacket for summer in the north.
  • Navigation: Use apps like Google Maps in cities—offline maps are essential for Patagonia. Buses ($0.50-$60) and domestic flights ($70-$200) are reliable for intercity travel, like Buenos Aires to Mendoza.
  • Peak Season: Buenos Aires and Patagonia are busiest from December to February—book accommodations and tours early, especially for Iguazu Falls.