Argentina Travelers Recommend

The cowboy life is very much alive and well in Argentina, and many working ranches (estancias) near Buenos Aires welcome guests. Visitors interested in gaucho folklore and culture can saddle up and learn all about life on the Pampas. Here’s how.

Highlights

• Party down at a “fiesta gaucha”, taste Argentinean empanadas and wine, and enjoy a horseback ride during a daylong visit to Estancia Santa Susana.

• Visit the Shrine of Lujan and enjoy a traditional BBQ (asado) at a working estancia in San Antonio de Areco.

• Take part in one of Argentina’s most beloved sports with a polo lesson and match at the posh Estancia Villa Maria.

• Spend the day in the gaucho town of San Antonio de Areco and learn all about its Spanish heritage on a private tour.

• Enjoy a traditional barbecue lunch with all the fixings, horseback riding, trick horse demonstrations, and dancing as you learn about the life of an Argentine gaucho.

Uruguay is a nation of tidy European-style cities, expansive cattle ranches, and attractive vineyards. Buenos Aires locals and visitors alike enjoy getaways to Uruguay, just a short ferry ride away. Here are two top Uruguay day trips from Buenos Aires.

Montevideo — 174 miles (280 km) from Buenos Aires

Elegant yet understated, Uruguay’s capital city is surprisingly sophisticated for its size. Montevideo is home to the headquarters of Mercosur (the increasingly powerful South American free-trade zone) and boasts beaches, varied architecture, and plenty of museums and art galleries. Whether it’s a day spent relaxing by the waves or exploring the city’s multitude of architectural styles (from Spanish Colonial to art deco), a trip to Montevideo is sure to impress. Be sure to explore the city’s refurbished historic quarter, Ciudad Viejo.

Colonia del Sacramento — 62 miles (100 km) from Buenos Aires

A day trip to Colonia del Sacramento is a relaxing way to get a feel for old Uruguay. The UNESCO World Heritage Site was founded across the Rio de la Plata from Argentina in 1680. Originally a settlement governed by Portugal, this picturesque village changed hands several times during the country’s rough-and-tumble colonial era. Today its historic buildings and cobblestone streets embody Uruguay’s unique blend of Spanish and Portuguese cultures.

With three days in Buenos Aires, there’s plenty of time to take in important sights such as Plaza de Mayo, explore colorful neighborhoods with time for cafes and restaurants, and spend a day in the countryside at a traditional ranch. Here are some ways to experience Buenos Aires in three days.

Day 1: Sightseeing in the City

Joining a guided sightseeing tour or taking the hop-on hop-off bus is a great way to get your bearings. Stop at Plaza de Mayo to see Casa Rosada and Metropolitan Cathedral, and then head to Avenue 9 de Julio, home to the Obelisk and Teatro Colón. Enjoy a coffee at the oldest cafe in the city, Cafe Tortoni, before visiting Evita’s grave at Recoleta Cemetery.

In the afternoon, stroll around the cobbled streets of San Telmo, where the historic buildings are home to artisan boutiques, art galleries, and antique shops. Further south, explore the waterfront district of La Boca, known for its brightly painted houses, and browse the shops for handicrafts and souvenirs.

At night, book a table at one of Buenos Aires’ best grill houses (parrillas) to sample Argentina’s world-famous steak. La Carnicería and Don Julio are located in the lively Palermo Soho area. Stay to experience the nightlife—the area’s bars and clubs are crammed with locals and stay open late. 

Day 2: Take a Day Trip

For a uniquely Argentine experience, head out into the pampas for a day at a traditional ranch (estancia). Meet the cowboys (gauchos), watch their horsemanship skills, and perhaps take a horseback ride. Finish with a tasty barbecue and a gaucho-style fiesta. 

Alternatively, visit the provincial town of Tigre, an hour by train from Buenos Aires. As the city lies along the scenic Tigre Delta, a highlight is a scenic cruise around the islands and stilted houses of the delta. 

It’s also possible to cross the border and visit Uruguay on a day tour—regular ferries run across the Rio de la Plata to the colonial town of Colonia del Sacramento. For value, choose a tour that includes hotel pickup, round-trip transport, and lunch.

Day 3: Experience Argentine Culture

Explore the northern district of Palermo by bike to experience the parks and bustling plazas. Cycle around Palermo Woods and visit the Japanese Gardens, stop to browse the shops, grab a coffee on Plaza Italia or Plaza Serrano, or admire Latin American art at the renowned MALBA museum. 

Spend the afternoon soaking up more Argentine culture. Perhaps take a cooking class and learn to make local specialties such as empanadas and alfajores, sample Malbec during a guided wine tasting, or learn to tango with a lesson led by a professional instructor. If you’re in the city on a game day, plan to attend a soccer (futbol) match at Bombonera Stadium.

In the evening, book a tango dinner show to experience an integral part of the city’s culture.

The gateway town to Patagonia’s blue Perito Moreno Glacier and Los Glaciares National Park, El Calafate is also a resort destination bordering Lake Argentino. Birdwatchers flock here to watch the lake fill with flamingos, while wannabe gauchos go cantering beside the water.

Day 1: El Calafate Canter Spend the day relaxing and getting to know El Calafate, capital of Argentina’s glacier country. As you take a stroll through the heart of town, you’ll notice the locals are deservedly proud of their well-kept gardens and the colorful blooms that thrive in this temperate climate. Hire a horse for a leisurely gallop, and as dusk falls, head to Nimez Lagoon to watch the birds’ nightly arrival at the famous wetlands. Round off the evening by ordering local specialties like grilled venison or beef at one of El Calafate’s many restaurants.

Day 2: Go Glacial Next day, the soaring icy walls of Perito Moreno Glacier in Los Glaciares National Park await. Take a guided walk along pathways to the glacier face, for breathtaking views of the surrounding snow-covered mountains. Safely ensconced on the panoramic catwalk of a nearby peninsula, you’ll be surrounded by icy peaks soaring 60m (197 feet) above you. The air fills with the thunder and crash of shifting icebergs and jagged chunks of ice are propelled from the glacier, as you experience first-hand one of the planet’s most active icefields!

Day 3: Torres del Paine Cross over into Chile for the day to spend time amongst the granite pillars, turquoise lakes and jagged peaks of Torres del Paine National Park. This spectacularly scenic day trip combines a scenic drive through the Patagonian country of both Argentina and Chile, taking in the waterfalls of Salto Grande, panoramic lookouts and glacier-ringed lakes.

Legend has it that tango developed in the brothels and backstreets of Buenos Aires' port districts. Today, the passionate dance form is on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List. Read on for the best ways to experience tango in Buenos Aires.

Highlights

• Listen to authentic tango music at one of Buenos Aires' live music venues.

• Take in a professional tango show and enjoy a dance lesson afterward.

• Combine a dance lesson with a historical tour of Buenos Aires' most important tango landmarks.

• Enjoy a typical 3-course Argentinean meal during a tango dinner show.

• Many tango-themed tours include round-trip hotel transportation.

Tango Shows with Dinner

Why not make a whole evening of it and combine a traditional tango show with a delicious dinner? Many professional tango shows include an optional 3-course meal of classic Argentinean food and wine, which you'll enjoy during the dance performance. Many tours offer hotel pickup and drop-off.

Tango Dance Lessons

For a truly quintessential Buenos Aires experience, immerse yourself in the local scene while learning basic tango steps during a lesson at a traditional milonga (tango dance club). Dance lessons can be taken on their own or as part of a combo tour that includes dinner and a professional tango show.

Known throughout South America for its steep ice walls and dramatic calving, the Perito Moreno Glacier is high on many hikers’ wish lists. Set out with a knowledgeable guide who leads you safely across the Argentinean glacier’s frozen surface and down into ice tunnels. Here’s what you need to know about hiking the Perito Moreno Glacier.

Highlights

• Witness the glacier calving and ice splashing into the lagoon below.

• Venture beneath the glacier’s surface with the assistance of a guide, crampons, and harness.

• Navigate ice tunnels and explore deep glacial caves.

• See icebergs in myriad shades of blue and white detaching from the glacier.

• Bring your camera for panoramic photo opportunities throughout the hike.

How to Prepare

Hiking Perito Moreno Glacier, within the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Los Glaciares National Park, can be dangerous, so setting out with an experienced guide is highly recommended. While guides proved some equipment, you’ll want to be well prepared with waterproof layers, strong hiking boots, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

When to Go

The most popular hiking season is during the South American summer, from December through February. Shoulder season is in October/November and March/April.

Things to Know

• Single- and multi-day guided trekking tours are available, with options for visitors with different levels of hiking experience.

• Another way to see the glacier is via a boat ride in the lagoon. Down at this level, you hear ice cracking more loudly and can fully appreciate the height of the glacier.

• There are stands set up facing the front of the glacier for those who want to stop and watch the big splashes of water at the glacier’s base.

Three days gives you enough time to really linger in Mendoza, sampling the wines, breathing in the fresh mountain air, and wandering the tree-lined streets and fountain-filled plazas that make this wine-country hub so captivating. Read on for tips about how to make the most of your three days in Mendoza.

Day 1: Wine, Wine, Wine

Wine is a star attraction in Mendoza, and by kicking off your trip with a day of wine tasting, you can identify some favorite bottles to enjoy throughout the remainder of your stay. Since the region’s wineries are diverse and often spread out, plan to dedicate an entire day to touring winemaking facilities and sampling wines, including Argentina’s famous malbec. Wine tasting here is a bit of a choose-your-own-adventure; you can take a cycling tour to a few different wineries, pedaling through the picturesque vineyards between tastings, or you can leave the driving to someone else on the hop-on hop-off wine bus, with stops at nearly two dozen wineries. For the ultimate flexibility, opt for a private tour with your own car and driver to explore the wineries of the Uco Valley or Lujan de Cayo. Most tours include a picnic or multicourse tasting menu at one of the wineries for lunch, as well as transportation back to your Mendoza hotel in time for dinner.

Day 2: Andes Adventure

Besides producing excellent wines, the Mendoza region ranks among the world’s most spectacular wine regions, thanks to its position at the base of the Andes Mountains. Today’s your chance to take a day trip into this beautiful region near the Chilean border. If you’re in the mood for some relaxation, opt for a day trip to the Termas de Cacheuta spa in the heart of the Andes to unwind in the indoor and outdoor natural thermal spas and mud baths. Another popular day trip to the area takes visitors right up to the border with Chile to see the tallest peak in the Americas, Aconcagua, with a summit elevation of 22,841 feet (6,961 meters). Other options include fly fishing or white-water rafting on the Mendoza River or trekking through the Cordón del Plata.

Day 3: Mendoza City

Many visitors with shorter stays in Mendoza never get to enjoy the city itself, which is a shame. Start your last day off with a city sightseeing tour. Soak up the city’s appeal as you visit major landmarks such as Plaza Independencia; Cerro de la Gloria—the highest point in Mendoza—for its city views; General San Martin Park, one of the best urban green spaces in the country; and the Mundialista Stadium, site of the 1978 World Cup. In the afternoon, stop for coffee or a glass of wine at one of the alfresco cafés along Avenue Colón, and enjoy a siesta before heading out again for dinner. Remember, Argentines eat late. To wrap up your time in Mendoza, finish your night at one of the city’s milongas (tango bars) to dance the night away.

Just a short trip outside of Mendoza—Argentina’s wine capital known for its restaurants, shops, and historical sites—lie the towering peaks of the Andes mountains. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline rush or simply wish to soak up the scenery, here are your options for tours to the Andes from Mendoza.

Full-Day Tours

You can explore a lot of the Andes in a single day. Sightseeing tours into the Andes often travel along Route 7, part of the Pan-American Highway, to the tallest mountain in the Americas: Aconcagua. Stops along the way might include the mountain towns of Potrerillos and Uspallata, Puente del Inca rock bridge, and the Huarpe ruins of Pichueta. Active travelers can spend the day trekking, mountain biking, or horseback riding.

Multi-Day Tours

Guided multi-day trips through the region allow travelers to experience the best Mendoza and the Andes have to offer. An itinerary might include the chance to visit sights, such as Horcones Lagoon, Mt. Aconcagua, and Puente del Inca; go wine tasting at a combination of industrial and boutique wineries; and explore the mountain scenery in a 4WD vehicle. For a true South American adventure, saddle up for a horseback riding journey across the Andes mountains from Mendoza to Santiago, Chile.

Things to Know

• Mt. Aconcagua in the Andes is located about 70 miles (113 kilometers) from Mendoza City.

• Choose between the value of a small-group tour and the flexibility of a private tour.

• Day trips to the Andes can last several hours, depending on the option chosen.

• Most tours include hotel pickup and drop-off in Mendoza, as well as a traditional barbecue (asado) lunch.

• Don’t forget to bring sun protection; there’s not a lot of shade in the Andes.

Two days in Buenos Aires gives you plenty of time visit top attractions such as Plaza Mayo and experience Argentine cultural highpoints such as a tango show. You also have time to explore the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, museums, and restaurants. Here are a few ideas.

Day 1:  Explore Buenos Aires Neighborhoods

Morning: A walking tour or hop-on hop-off bus is the most convenient way to take in the central sights. Start at Plaza de Mayo, home to Casa Rosada and Metropolitan Cathedral, and continue along Avenue 9 de Julio, where you find the Obelisk and Teatro Colón. End the morning browsing the Florida Avenue shops.

Afternoon: Discover two of Buenos Aires’ most atmospheric districts, San Telmo and La Boca. San Telmo is liveliest on market day (Sunday), when tango dancers and musicians provide live entertainment, but the historic buildings are beautiful any day. In La Boca, the star attractions are La Bombonera football stadium and the colorfully painted Caminito Street houses.

Night: Continue sightseeing with a drive through the waterfront Puerto Madero district—the high-rise buildings and futuristic Puente de la Mujer bridge are impressive when illuminated at night. For dinner, sample Argentina’s world-famous steak with dinner at a steakhouse—the Palermo Soho district has some of the best.

Day 2: Parks and Museums

Morning: After a breakfast of coffee and pastries at Cafe Tortoni, the oldest in the city, head to Buenos Aires’ northern neighborhoods, Recoleta and Palermo. The leafy plazas and parks offer a perfect backdrop for a bike tour, taking in the Palermo Woods, Botanic Gardens, and Japanese Gardens.

Afternoon: Visit the Recoleta Cemetery to see Evita’s grave, and learn more at Palermo’s Evita Museum. See Latin American art at the MALBA museum, which is within walking distance of the Floralis Genérica statue. The flower sculpture closes its petals as the sun goes down, so time your arrival for sunset.

Night: Spend your final night in Buenos Aires watching a tango show. For the full experience, choose a package that includes a pre-show dinner and a tango class. For your last hurrah, head to bar- and club-filled Palermo Soho—it’s the place to be after dark. 

You could spend weeks exploring Patagonia, the rugged wilderness that blankets the southern regions of Argentina and Chile, but with only a few days to spare, there’s still time to take in the highlights. On the Argentine side, the principal towns include Bariloche in the northern lakelands; Puerto Madryn, best known for its arctic wildlife; El Calafate, the ‘national capital of the glaciers’; and Ushuaia, at the southernmost tip of Patagonia, all of which are reachable by regular flights from Buenos Aires. To help you plan your itinerary, here are some ideas for how to spend 3 days in Patagonia, but to really make the most of a short trip, choose one of these towns to focus on and enjoy day trips to the nearby sights. 

Day 1: Puerto Madryn

A popular destination for cruise ships, the coastal resort of Puerto Madryn offers a range of outdoor activities. Go hiking or horse riding along the coast; take a trip to the Punta Tombo Penguin Colony; enjoy snorkeling or scuba diving with sea lions; or sail out to explore the wildlife sanctuary of the UNESCO-listed Valdes Peninsula.

Day 2: El Calafate

The undeniable highlight of El Calafate is the neighboring Los Glaciares National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site home to the magnificent Perito Moreno Glacier, one of Patagonia’s most iconic sights. One day hiking or boating trips to see the glacier are possible, but with more time you could also include a visit to the remote Upsala Glacier or cross the Chilean border for a hike around the rugged mountains and glacial lakes of the Torres del Paine National Park.

Day 3: Ushuaia

As the world’s southernmost city, Ushuaia is the last frontier before Antarctica and dubbed the ‘end of the world’ by many arctic cruise liners. Choose from exploring the dramatic landscapes of the Tierra del Fuego National Park; sailing or kayaking among the islands of the famous Beagle Channel; riding the evocatively named End of the World train line; or learning about Patagonia’s diverse wildlife at the Museo del Fin del Mundo.

San Carlos de Bariloche (commonly, Bariloche) is the undisputed capital of the Argentine lakes region, and as such, also for adventure tourism, hiking, skiing, flyfishing, horseback riding at nearby ranches, visiting glaciers, and more.

Day One: Explore the City Bariloche’s Swiss-styled architecture makes for many a great photo-op, particularly in front of the Civic Center, with its stone construction and steeply-pitched grooves. The clock tower chimes at noon daily, and the plaza in front of the Civic Center is a great place to get a view of the lake, with protected alcoves nearby for when the wind blows, including the one that houses the helpful, multilingual tourist information office.

The city of Bariloche also has a few museums, including the Museo Patagónico Perito Moreno, which has an ethno-historical section, detailing the lives of the original inhabitants, such as the Mapuche, Fuegian and Tehuelche peoples. There’s also a big collection of taxidermied animals on view, as well as exhibits on Bariloche’s history.

Chocolate sampling, souvenir shopping and museum and church visits will still leave you with a few hours free in the afternoon, which is a great time to check out Cerro Otto, a viewpoint and tourist center just a few miles outside of town. Here, visitors are whisked to the top in small red gondolas, to drink a hot chocolate or coffee, or enjoy a meal in the (slowly) rotating hilltop restaurant. Other activities here include sledding or tubing down the hill (a funicular takes you back up) and a few walks, including a guided snowshoe walk in winter. But the showstopper is undoubtedly the view, as from here you can see the lake, the town, and several towering peaks.

Day Two: Out and About If you haven’t made time to go up to Cerro Otto on the first day, that’s a possible start to the day, though there’s plenty to do on day two. Make your way to Puerto Pañuelo, from which you can take a boat ride to Isla Victoria, a small island in the middle of Nahuel Huapi lake, and continue on to the Quetrihué peninsula, part of the Los Arrayanes National Park. Here you float along 600-year old stands of cinnamon-barked arrayán (Chilean myrtle) trees in a rare protected stand, which is also home to two small species of deer, foxes, and other small mammals, and the curiously named “little mountain monkey) monito del monte, a small marsupial. Alternatively, go to the park, skipping Isla Victoria, and bike, horseback ride or walk the 12 km to the peninsula, which will take a few hours and is a quieter, more solitary way to appreciate the park.

For a more active day, consider a visit instead to Cerro Tronador, a partially unpaved and slow two-hour drive from Bariloche. En route to Cerro Tronador, you’ll pass Gutierrez Lake, at which you can do a short hike to a waterfall, and even kayak. Mascardi Lake is also on the way, and you’ll drive south around its U-shape before getting to Pampa Linda, the last town before Cerro Tronador.

Day Three: Touring the Seven Lakes (Siete Lagos) Route An early morning will afford you the best use of your time, This drive is only 60-odd miles between Villa La Angostura, itself an hour and fifteen minutes from Bariloche, along the vast Nahuel Huapi that is the backdrop of so many activities in this area. The journey can easily take all day (or even two, if you’ve got the time), passing by the seven eponymous lakes that give this drive its name, including one bonus laguna (small lake), emerald green Laguna Escondida (hidden lake). En route, you’ll see native forests of different kinds of beech trees, green most of the year, and bright orange and yellow in the fall (April and May). The seven lakes are alternately glittering, still, frothy and turquoise, and you can also stop at the two national parks (Nahuel Huapi and Lanín), before ending up in San Martín de Los Andes, another town which some say is a smaller version of Bariloche, but with much less group tourist activity.

If you decide to spend the night (making this one day into a two-day tour), try camping at one of the national parks, or stay at one of the hosterías lake side along the way, taking time to eat one of the famous Argentine steaks, or the area’s main gastronomic attraction, cordero al palo (spit-roasted lamb), washing it down with Argentina’s signature Malbec wine, or if you prefer, one of the region’s craft-brewed beers.

The southernmost city in the world, Ushuaia is surrounded by the glacial peaks of the Fuegian Andes and lapped by the icy waters of the Beagle Channel. As a convenient gateway to wilderness and wildlife, the city is a magnet for adventurous travelers. Here’s how to make the most of three days in Ushuaia.

Day 1: City Sights

Though best-known as the gateway to Antarctica, Ushuaia is also home to a wealth of cultural and historic attractions. Kickstart your stay by getting your bearings on a walking or bus tour of the city. Tours typically cover the historic La Mission neighborhood, the Brown and Solier districts, and cultural landmarks such as the Maritime Museum and Old Prison of Ushuaia. For naturalists, a must-see museum is Museo del Fin del Mundo, with its exhibits on Patagonian wildlife. Nightlife in Ushuaia is subdued, but if you head for the central Avenida San Martín, you’ll find a selection of restaurants and bars that offer king crab and locally-brewed beers.

Day 2: Tierra del Fuego National Park

Spend your second day getting active on a full-day excursion to Tierra del Fuego National Park. Tours from Ushuaia tend to transport you there by bus or by the famed End of the World Train, the world’s southernmost train journey, which follows the route of the original convict train that ran in Ushuaia from 1910 to 1947. 

Some shorter tours include just enough time for taking in views of the snow-capped mountains and glacial lakes, while others let you delve deeper into Patagonian landscapes via treks and kayak excursions that reveal beaches, forested valleys, Lapataia Bay and Lake Roca—these longer tours typically include a picnic lunch. If you still have energy left over in the evening, embark on a snowshoeing and snowmobiling tour, which typically include dinner and a dog-sledding experience.

Day 3: Beagle Channel

The narrow Beagle Channel separates the main island of Tierra del Fuego from a cluster of small Chilean islands and is easily explored on a boat tour from Ushuaia. Full-day sailing trips meander through the islands of the Alicia Archipelago and bring you up close to the area's prolific bird life,which comprises skuas, cormorants, and black browed albatross. Tours typically also sail by Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse (also known as the Lighthouse at the End of the World) and visit Seal Island in the Les Eclaireurs Archipelago, which is home to two species of sea lions. 

For many, however, the highlight of these boat tours is Martillo Island, home to large colonies of Magellanic and Gentoo penguins. Most tours give you ample time to explore the grounds of Estancia Harberton, a historical settlement that dates back to the 19th century, before returning to Ushuaia. 

The spectacular Iguazu Falls straddle the border between Argentina and Brazil, but most the national park lands lie on the Argentine side. From this side of the border, it’s possible to see the falls up-close from above and below, and to explore the surrounding rain forests. Here are a few ways to enjoy the Argentine side.

Hiking

Some of the best hiking in the Iguazu Falls area is found on the Argentine side of the border. There are five main trails ranging in length from the 716-yard (655-meter) Green Trail to the 4.3-mile (7-kilometer) Macuco and Arrechea Trail. Most guided tours of Iguazu National Park include hikes along the Upper Circuit, Lower Circuit, and Devil’s Throat trails, allowing for numerous vantage points on the cascading water along elevated walkways. 

Boat Tours

One of the most popular ways to experience the falls is from the river. Boat tours take you close to the base of the thundering falls. A typical boat trip navigates 4 miles (6 kilometers) of the Iguazu River, including a stretch of rapids. Boats also get close to Devil’s Throat Canyon and make a landing on San Martin Island when conditions allow. These family-friendly excursions almost always involve getting wet, so it’s a good idea to bring a change of clothes.

Train Rides

One feature the Argentine side of the falls has that the Brazilian side lacks is the Rainforest Ecological Train. This quiet and clean open-air train departs every 15 to 20 minutes from the main visitor’s center in the national park. Guests can hop off and on at Cataratas Station for access to the Upper and Lower Circuits and boats to San Martin Island, or at the Devil’s Throat Station to hike the catwalk above the Upper Iguazu River to the top of Devil’s Throat.

By Night

Though Iguazu Falls are impressive by day, they’re arguably even more spectacular when illuminated by the light of a full moon. A few times per month, visitors can explore the park after dark on a moonlight tour of the falls. These special tours include a ride on the Rainforest Ecological Train and a walk along the Devil’s Throat Trail. Some tours also include dinner before or after the tour.

The busy port city and adventure hub of Ushuaia is often referred to as the “end of the world” for its far southern setting in the Argentine province of Tierra del Fuego. From the glacial peaks of the Fuegian Andes to the icy Beagle Channel, stunning scenery abounds. Here’s how to make the most of it.

Morning: Tierra del Fuego National Park

Kick off your visit to the world’s southernmost city with an excursion to the world's southernmost national park. Tierra del Fuego National Park is home to glaciers, lakes, mountains, and abundant wildlife. You can travel there by bus or by the famed End of the World Train, which follows the route of the original convict train that ran in Ushuaia from 1910 to 1947. You’ll learn more about the history of the region as the train travels along the coastline of the Beagle Channel, passing by sparkling bays, snow-capped peaks, and emerald forest. Tours typically include time to disembark and walk along nature paths and explore the landscape.

Afternoon: Penguin Rookery or the City

You can spend your afternoon in the company of Magellanic and gentoo penguins by taking a tour to Martillo Island on the Beagle Channel. Tours are typically led by naturalist guides who provide insight into the behavior of the penguins, as well as other birds including skuas, petrels, cormorants, vultures, and South American terns. Alternatively, you can stay in the city and take a tour of Ushuaia. Bus tours typically take visitors to the La Mission neighborhood to learn about the European settlers who made their homes there and into notable public buildings and museums. Some city tours include a trip to Le Martial Glacier.

Night: Evening Snow Adventures

Dive into Patagonia’s winter wonderland with an evening tour that embraces the region’s powdery terrain. Combination evening tours typically include snowshoeing across iced-over lakes, snowmobiling through rugged terrain, and dogsledding through forest, and are rounded out with a visit to a local restaurant for a traditional Argentine asado (barbecue) dinner. Afterward, you can warm up and toast a great day in Ushuaia with a visit to the wine bars and restaurants lining the city’s central Avenida San Martín.

Even with just 24 hours in Buenos Aires, you can see a lot of Argentina’s capital city. From landmarks such as Casa Rosada, Evita’s famous balcony, to its main opera house, Teatro Colón, there’s much ground to cover in this cosmopolitan Latin American city (and nightlife options, too). Read on for our picks.

Morning: See the Central Sights

To see more of the city in a limited amount of time, join a guided tour, which also takes the hassle out of navigating an unfamiliar city. Travelers who want more flexibility opt for a hop-on hop-off bus tour. Must-see landmarks include Casa Rosada, where Evita addressed the people from the balcony; Metropolitan Cathedral, the former church of Pope Francis, on Plaza de Mayo; the colourfully painted houses of Caminito Street in La Boca; and the opera house, Teatro Colón. Finish with a drive along Avenue 9 de Julio, the world’s widest boulevard, for a view of the Obelisk. Finally, head into historic San Telmo where you can stroll the cobblestone lanes and browse the street market (Sundays only). 

Afternoon: Explore Palermo and Recoleta

After tucking into a typical Argentina empanada lunch, spend the afternoon exploring Buenos Aires’ northern neighborhoods. Stroll around Recoleta Cemetery, where the grand mausoleums include Evita’s grave, and stop for a coffee at nearby Plaza Francia. Continue into Palermo, where you might visit the Botanic Gardens, MALBA art museum, or Evita Museum; alternatively, soak up the atmosphere on Plaza Italia or Plaza Serrano. At sunset, head to the Floralis Genérica statue—the flower sculpture closes its petals as the sun sets.

Night: Watch a Tango Show

Buenos Aires is the birthplace of Argentine tango, and a tango show is a quintessential visitor experience. Choose a show that includes a pre-show dinner or attend a dance class to learn tango basics for yourself. Sample the city’s legendary nightlife after the show, heading to the bars of Palermo Soho to sip cocktails with the locals or to Puerto Madero, known for its glamorous bars and nightclubs. For the best views, choose one overlooking the glittering waterfront and Puente de la Mujer bridge. 

Salta is both a province in northwest Argentina and the largest city in that region, and on a 3-day trip, you’ll have time to get to know them both. Explore the city’s colonial architecture and bustling markets, then traveling into the countryside to sip wine and go trekking in the mountains. Here’s what to do with 3 days in Salta.

Day 1: Explore the City

On your first day, dive into Salta City and explore its culture and history. Start with a bus tour with a comprehensive itinerary that includes sights like Plaza 9 de Julio, the San Francisco Church and Convent, and bustling crafts markets. Later in the day, learn about Salta’s architecture on a walking tour that gives you insight into the area’s colonial architecture and takes you to other top landmarks, including the Cathedral of Salta, Casa de Uriburu, and the San Bernardo Convent. Afterward, if you want to learn more about the region’s history, head to the Historical Museum of the North, one of Argentina’s most important museums.

Finish the day with an evening of traditional music at a peña, or folk music club. Have a drink and a bite while you enjoy the music, and, if you like, you can learn a few steps of a traditional Argentine dance.

Day 2: All About Wine

Take a day trip to the Cafayate wine region to learn about the wines produced in the northwestern region of Argentina. Spend the day exploring the Calchaqui Valley with stops at wineries to learn about local winemaking techniques. Taste the region’s famous torrontés, meet the people behind the vineyards, and compare wines from several different wineries. Small-group tours and private tours (which can be tailored to your interests) both depart from Salta City. Traditional Argentine barbecue is a classic accompaniment to the region’s red wines. At the end of the day, relax with a barbecue feast while sampling a range of wines from Cafayate.

Day 3: The Great Outdoors

On your last day, take an adventurous day trip into the countryside. Salta is known for its natural beauty, and highlights include the salt flats at Salinas Grandes, the Puna de Atacama desert, and Purmamarca, or the seven-colored hill. Full-day tours can take you to the dramatic landscapes of Quebrada de Humahuaca, the giant cacti of Los Cardones National Park, or Bull Lagoon, which is known for its thriving flamingo population.

If you want to do more than go sightseeing, there are a variety of opportunities to get active in the countryside, including white water river rafting, zip lining, and mountain trekking. You could also opt to explore caves and underground rivers on a trip into the Lerma Valley before heading back to the city to enjoy an evening on Balcarce, a lively, bar-lined street where you toast to your adventures.

Even though it’s a fraction of the size of neighboring Bariloches, the amount of activities around San Martin de los Andes can make it seem overwhelming.  After all, when a pristine wilderness flecked with lakes stretches out for thousands of square miles, and hundreds of hiking trails climb their way across dormant, snowcapped volcanoes, it’s only natural to feel an urge to get out and see it all. Exploring every corner of the surroundings, however, could take an entire lifetime, and the majority of visitors only have a couple of days to explore the entire area. In order to better help organize time to maximize the area’s highlights, the following is a suggested three-day itinerary for visiting San Martin de los Andes.

Day 1: Spend a day cruising Lake Lacár

Even though there are dozens of lakes between the area’s two national parks, Lake Lacár is the cobalt darling of San Martin de los Andes. The shoreline stretches to the outskirts of town, and no trip to the town is complete without a day spent out on the lake. To experience the beauty of Lake Lacár, book a cruise from the dock in town to the dock at Hua Hum. The cruise across the length of the lake is nearly three hours long, and passes by islands and hidden beaches you’d never find on your own. Take a break at Chachin dock and hike to Chachin waterfall—stretching your legs on the 30-minute hike through pristine Patagonian forest. Grab a bite in Hua Hum near the border with neighboring Chile, and compare how the waters of Lake Nonthué differ from Lake Lacár. 

Day 2: Hit the beach and town

For as much as the surrounding natural beauty seems to capture all the attention, the town of San Martin de los Andes is an attraction unto itself. Far more relaxed than Bariloches but more lively than Villa Angostura, it’s a medium sized village that’s perfectly suited for relaxation and fun. Start the day with some coffee or maté at a charming streetside café, and then grab your towel for a relaxing day at one of the nearby beaches. Catritre Beach is a local favorite on the lake’s southern shore, and Quila Quina is where Mapuche culture combines with summertime watersports. Rent a kayak and paddle the shoreline in search of hidden coves, or shop for traditional, wooden crafts as memories of Patagonia. In the late afternoon, make your way back into towards town and stroll the shop-lined streets, stopping in Plaza San Martin where musicians, performers, and entertainers all gather in the central square. History buffs can duck their head into the fascinating Settler’s Museum, or travelers with a sweet tooth can sample the town’s legendary chocolate.

Day 3: Day trip to Lake Huechulafquen

For as scenic as the downtown area can be, one of the benefits of San Martin is its proximity to Lanin National Park. Embark on an all-day wilderness journey to the northern section of the park, where the snowcapped cone of Lanin Volcano is reflected in Lake Huechulafquen. Spend the day hiking and exploring the shoreline at the base of the towering volcano, and on the way back to San Martin, explore the town of Junin de los Andes and its laidback, small town charm.

With two days to spend in the region, you’ll get to experience the best of Mendoza’s two worlds: wine and outdoor adventure. Taste some of Argentina’s famous malbec wines right from the source, and soak up the sights of the magnificent Andes Mountains. Here are some tips for how to spend your 48 hours in Mendoza.

Day 1: Wine Country

**Morning:**The vast majority of visitors come to Mendoza for the wine, so kick off your trip with a wine-tasting tour through this beautiful region. Choose a bike tour to pedal down shady streets and through rolling vineyards from one tasting room to the next, or choose your own itinerary aboard the hop-on hop-off wine bus.

**Afternoon:**Most wine-tasting tours last the better part of a day and include a gourmet lunch at one of the wineries. Options range from a casual picnic lunch in a vineyard to a 5-course tasting menu in a winery dining room. In the afternoon, visit an olive oil factory for a guided tasting.

**Night:**After a return to Mendoza (and perhaps an afternoon siesta), spend time exploring the city itself. Do some people watching in Plaza Independencia, or take in the views from Cerro de la Gloria, the city’s highest point, before ending your day with a late dinner.

Day 2: Andes Adventure

**Morning:**Get an early start this morning for a journey along the Pan-American Highway toward the Andes Mountains. Stop in the charming mountain towns of Potrerillos and Uspallata, or ride the ski lift at Penitentes Ski Resort for excellent mountain views.

**Afternoon:**In the afternoon, stop for lunch—a traditional Argentine asado—before continuing on to Aconcagua Provincial Park for views of the highest mountain in the Americas. Those who’d prefer some relaxation can spend their day at the Termas de Cacheuta thermal spa in the Andes Mountains instead.

**Night:**Trips into the Andes Mountain Range typically get back into Mendoza later in the evening, so you might want to have a relaxing dinner at your hotel before your next-day departure, or if you’re feeling energetic, head to one of Mendoza’s milongas (tango clubs) for an evening of wine and dancing.

The southernmost city in the world is home to a picturesque jumble of colorful buildings surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of the Fuegian Andes. With two days in town, you can  explore the city and surroundings and visit a nearby national park and penguin colony. Here’s how to spend 48 hours in Ushuaia.

Day 1: History, Wildlife, and Snowy Landscapes

**Morning:**Ushuaia is primarily known for its stunning Patagonian landscapes, but there is also a wealth of cultural and historic attractions to explore. Get your bearings on a sightseeing tour of the city by bus or on foot. Tours typically cover the historic La Mission neighborhood, the Brown and Solier districts, and cultural landmarks such as the Maritime Museum and Old Prison of Ushuaia.

**Afternoon:**Visit the Magellanic and Gentoo penguin rookeries of Martillo Island on the Beagle Channel by taking a boat trip from the city. Typically led by naturalist guides, tours offer insight into the lives of the penguins, as well as other birds including skuas, petrels, cormorants, and vultures, and usually include free time at the traditional Estancia Harberton.

**Night:**Strap on some snowshoes and dive into the snowy landscapes surrounding the city with an evening tour that combines snowshoeing and snowmobiling along some of the routes taken by the area’s earliest explorers. Some tours also include a dog-sledding experience, and most include dinner. 

Day 2: Train Journeys and Boat Tours

**Morning:**Kick off your second day with a visit to Tierra del Fuego National Park. You can travel there by bus or the famed End of the World Train, which follows the route of the original convict train that ran in Ushuaia from 1910 to 1947. Upon arrival, tours typically include free time to take in the views of glaciers, lakes, and mountains, and perhaps to spot some of the park’s abundant wildlife.

**Afternoon:**Get back out onto the water this morning and explore more of the Beagle Channel by boat. Sailing tours from Ushuaia typically cruise past Lighthouse Les Eclaireurs and colonies of cormorants and sea lions, and disembark at Bridges Island to allow passengers to go on a short trek. 

**Night:**Conclude your visit to Ushuaia with a taste of its modest nightlife scene. Head for the city’s main drag, Avenida San Martín, and take your pick from the many wine bars, pubs, and restaurants to sample typical dishes such as king crab and sea bass, washed down with locally brewed beer and Argentine wines.

Argentina is hailed as the home of polo, the world's oldest team sport. Introduced by English settlers in the 19th century, today it's one of the nation's most popular games. Here's how to experience this national pastime while in Buenos Aires.

Polo Lessons

To polish up your taco (polo mallet) skills, opt for a polo experience at a polo club or on an estancia, where you can become a player for the day. Learn how to play polo on the field, participate in expert-led training lessons, and get a chance to see professional polo players in action. Even if you've never ridden a horse before, you can enjoy a match and lesson on a day trip from Buenos Aires.

Polo Match Viewing

Polo is a huge part of Argentina's culture, thanks in part to the national team winning numerous world championships and creating some of the sport's top players. Argentina hosts three of the world's most important polo tournaments—the Argentine Open, the Hurlingham Open, and the Tortugas Open—and watching a live polo game here is an unbeatable experience for visitors to Buenos Aires. It's also possible to watch a match in the Argentinean countryside on a full-day tour.

For Argentines, soccer is more than just a game—and Argentina has firmly cemented its status as a top football nation. Locals’ passion for the sport can make for some heated conversations! Here are the best ways to experience futbol in Buenos Aires.

Soccer Stadium Tours

Football stadium tours are a popular way to explore what goes on behind the scenes at a football match. On a stadium tour, visitors can step inside the locker rooms and VIP areas, and walk on the pitch before a  game kicks off. In addition to the iconic La Bombonera (home stadium of Boca Juniors) and El Monumental (home of River Plate), clubs in the greater Buenos Aires region include Club Atletico Independiente, San Lorenzo de Almagro, and Racing Club de Avellaneda.

Soccer Matches

Attending a football match in Buenos Aires is a unique experience. Even the smallest league teams draw huge crowds to their games—and the enthusiastic, nonstop football chants and pounding drums will leave your ears ringing.

Soccer History City Tours

Nearly every neighborhood of Buenos Aires has its own soccer team, and each team has its own history. A soccer-themed tour of the capital city’s neighborhoods reveals the culture of the teams and the importance of football in Argentina. You can even take a tour all about legendary player Diego Maradona, widely considered one of the greatest footballers of all time.

Argentina may be best known for its red malbec wines, but the country’s varied terrain yields quite a few varietals—enough to pique the interest of even the most serious wine lover. Here’s how to experience the nation’s wine scene in Buenos Aires.

Must-Try Varietals

When you think of Argentinean wine, it’s probably a juicy, red malbec that first comes to mind. Those setting off to discover Argentina’s best-known varietal will likely have Mendoza pegged as their top destination, but there are plenty of places in Buenos Aires to try malbec. Torrontes is a unusual, crisp, floral white grape that grows best in the high mountainous regions around Salta. And although merlot is generally blended with malbec to produce a smooth table wine, some producers make a 100-percent varietal that can rival a French wine.

Must-Do Experiences

• Explore chic wine bars and restaurants on a walking tour of the Palermo neighborhood.

• Feast on Argentinean cuisine during an interactive dining experience featuring steak, empanadas, mate, alfajores (cookie sandwiches traditionally filled with dulce de leche or other confection and covered in chocolate or powdered sugar)—and, of course, wine.

• Sample a few of the world’s finest malbecs at some of Palermo’s hippest speakeasies and secret cafés.

• Sip some wines (and nibble on tapas) at a prestigious cellar under the direction of a professional sommelier.

No one is as closely associated with Argentina as Eva Perón, who used her position as first lady to champion labor rights and found the country's first significant female political party. Here's how to experience Perón's legacy in Buenos Aires.

Bike Tours of Palermo and Recoleta

The neighboring barrios of Palermo and Recoleta are two of the most beautiful in the city—an ideal setting for some guided pedaling along the shady streets. Bike tours through these neighborhoods stop at Recoleta Cemetery as well as the Evita Monument, where travelers can pay respects at her tomb and learn more about this influential woman.

Walking Tours

A half day is plenty of time to stroll the shady streets of Recoleta, including the famous cemetery where Peron was laid to rest, or to explore the landmarks in and around Plaza de Mayo, where you can gaze up at the balcony where Evita often spoke publicly. A full-day walking tour can cover both neighborhoods, plus San Telmo, Puerto Madero, and La Boca.

Customizable Tours

Short on time? Book a private tour of Buenos Aires to make the most of what you have and still see the Evita-related sites most important to you, whether that be Recoleta Cemetery, Plaza de Mayo, or the Evita Museum, where you can view photographs, films, and personal items of Evita's in a 1923 mansion.

Buenos Aires Highlights Tours

Those who hop aboard a city tour will not only get to see some of the places linked to Evita, such as the rose-hued Casa Rosada (the Presidential Palace), but also catch other important Buenos Aires sites, such as the Metropolitan Cathedral, colorful Caminito Street, and San Telmo's Dorrego Square, where it's common to catch a spontaneous tango performance. This is a great option for travelers pressed for time in the Argentine capital.

Mendoza is the epicenter of Argentina’s world-renowned wine industry. Production here — which dates back to the Spanish conquistadors — has thrived thanks to the soil, climate, and altitude combining to create perfect winemaking conditions. Here’s what you need to know about what to drink and what to do while exploring Mendoza.

Must-Try Varietals

It’s really all about malbec in Mendoza. Even though the varietal is technically French, these robust, rich reds have put Argentina on the wine map. The most distinctive Argentinean white wine — and the only Argentinean grape — is torrontés, a white known for its floral aroma and dry finish produced in Mendoza, as well as in Salta and La Rioja.

Head to just about any restaurant or tasting room in the region, and in addition to malbec you’ll also find cabernet sauvignon, merlot, syrah, chardonnay, sauvignon blanc, and riesling.

Must-Do Experiences

• Enjoy some fresh air and sunshine as you cycle from one winery to the next on a Mendoza biking wine tour.

• Take a day trip to Maipú from Mendoza for a day of guided wine tastings.

• Choose your own wine adventure aboard a hop-on hop-off wine bus.

• Explore the land of Malbec with a tasting tour of Luján de Cuyo.

• Sample organic wines in the less-visiting boutique wineries of the Uco Valley.