12 Best Places to Visit in Argentina

Argentina beckons with its vibrant blend of natural splendor and cultural sophistication. From the rhythmic streets of Buenos Aires, where the spirit of the tango thrives, to the tranquil vineyards of Mendoza nestled in the heart of the wine country—each location tells a story of tradition and modernity intermingling seamlessly. Amidst grand Spanish colonial architecture in Cordoba, you’ll find echoes of the past alongside contemporary creativity brimming from cafes and communal spaces.

As you traverse Argentina’s diverse landscapes, a trove of ecological wonders unfolds. Venture north to the subtropical forests that guard the majestic Iguazú Falls, or journey to the rugged southern reaches of Patagonia’s Los Glaciares National Park—home to breathtaking glaciers and curious penguins. Coastal treasures await at the Golfo Nuevo with the awe-inspiring sight of Southern Right Whales cresting the waves. This introduction to the best places to visit in Argentina is just the beginning of what promises to be an unforgettable exploration of a country brimming with unforgettable experiences.

1. Mar del Plata

As you traverse the coastline of Buenos Aires Province, Mar del Plata emerges as a beacon of leisure, with its vast stretches of beaches welcoming visitors in a warm embrace. Evolving from an exclusive haven for the elite to the premier seaside destination of Argentina, the city’s allure is eternal.

Immerse yourself in architectural splendor, where traditional Spanish residences rub shoulders with stately Victorian houses, and modern skyscrapers cast their reflections on the Atlantic. The urban tapestry is a vibrant one, from the high-end resorts to the buzz of casinos, and the culinary delights ranging from quaint cafés to gourmet restaurants.

Beaches for Every Taste:

• Central Sands: Bristol, La Perla, and Popular—bustling with life near the heart of the city
• Playa Grande & Playa Mogotes: Coveted spots for their blend of tranquility and recreation

Beyond the Coast:

• An aquarium and zoo for wildlife enthusiasts
• Golf courses (5 in total)
• A vast sports complex for the athletically inclined

During peak season, the beaches thrum with energy as sunbathers, swimmers, and water sports aficionados converge. Waterside establishments offer refreshment and entertainment. Come post-summer, and the tempo slows, revealing a laid-back Mar del Plata, still radiant but with a softer glow. For the youth, the Southern Beaches transform into vibrant concert venues, alive with music and celebration under the stars.

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2. Quebrada de Humahuaca

Journey through Quebrada de Humahuaca, and you’ll be threading the same paths that ancient traders once trod. This long-standing valley, with its backdrop of towering cacti and llamas grazing, breathes life into the rugged landscapes of Argentina’s Jujuy province. Here, the remnants of a trade route that thrived under Incan rule still whispers tales of bygone eras.

Discover Humahuaca, the central township, with a cozy population inviting you into its rich cultural tapestry. Venture beyond to the lesser-trodden villages such as Iruya and Purmamarca, where vibrant markets spill with local crafts.

Embrace the sensory panorama at the Sierra de Siete Colores, where the hills unravel in a spectacle of rainbow hues. This is a canvas where Mother Nature has been the artist, painting history, geology, and beauty into one.

History buffs will find solace in Tilcara’s restored fortress, a place echoing the echoes of Argentina’s fight for independence. Every bend in this valley carries a story—a storied past of conflict, tradition, and natural splendor.

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3. Ibera Wetlands

Nestled in the northeastern corner of Argentina, a realm of ecological marvel spans across a swath of Corrientes province—a haven some 400 miles from Buenos Aires that flourishes largely undiscovered. In this sanctuary of biodiversity, you traverse the Ibera Wetlands, an expansive tapestry of marshes, moss-draped enclaves, and crystal-clear lagoons stretching before you.

You’re in a pristine territory that hums with life, where creatures of myth become palpable. Marvel at the sight of capybaras, the world’s largest rodents, as they lounge along the water’s edge, while overhead, a collage of 350 bird species from elegant herons to regal eagles sweeps the sky.

Wildlife of Ibera:

• Alligators and giant otters bask in their natural habitat
• Howler monkeys echo in the distance, a testament to the untamed beauty surrounding you
• Anacondas, silent in their majesty, slide through the wetland’s embrace

Amid the planet’s largest wetlands—second only to Brazil’s titanic Pantanal—you realize here, in these fertile plains, nature unfolds uninterrupted. A world where each visit is more than a glimpse—it’s an intimate encounter with Earth’s unadulterated essence.

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4. Cordoba

In the heart of Argentina, Córdoba stands as a testament to the nation’s intellectual prowess, often referred to as ‘the Learned’ for its rich array of academic institutions. Here’s where the past and present merge with grace—colonial-era Jesuit constructions share the skyline with contemporary edifices.

Imagine wandering beside the Primero River, encircled by a trio of mountain chains, as the cityscape teases with its architectural duality. The Jesuit blocks, dating back to the 17th century, are not just historical landmarks but keys to unlocking Córdoba’s storied past.

Your curiosity piqued, Córdoba invites you to embrace its vibrant student life, with more than 200,000 scholars invigorating its streets. By night, the city pulses to the beat of cuarteto music, and the roar of rally cars simmers in the background. The city’s pulse quickens further in the cultural hubs and theatres—each a gateway to the eclectic soul of Córdoba. Here, each arte bar and cultural complex isn’t just a place to observe but an experience tailored to your individual taste, offering a deep plunge into local vivacity.

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5. Puerto Madryn

Nestled on the New Gulf, Puerto Madryn serves as your stepping stone to the remarkable Peninsula Valdes. Renowned for its pristine beaches, this locale is a summer haven, albeit with brisk ocean currents.

As a blossoming hub for vacationers, Puerto Madryn’s transformation comes alive in the peak season, welcoming a surge of visitors that far outnumber its local residents. But it’s the aquatic ballet of the Southern Right Whales in breeding season that truly captures the heart—mere glimpses of their majesty can be had without ever leaving dry land from July through September.

Peering out into the South Atlantic, the unique silhouette of Peninsula Valdes, tethered to the continent by only a narrow isthmus, is an untouched sanctuary where the dance of marine life unfolds. It’s here that seals, sea lions, and agile orcas parade against a backdrop of over 180 bird species, painting a scene that calls for the eager anticipations of wildlife aficionados and birdwatchers alike.

The Peninsula’s sparse human footprint is marked by Puerto Piramides—a cozy hamlet lined with eateries dishing out the ocean’s bounty and quaint shops with treasures to take home. Come evening, its casual bars offer a lively spot to recount the day’s encounters.

Remember, Peninsula Valdes respects its delicate ecosystem with strict regulations—roaming free is not an option. To truly embrace this ecological treasure, team up with local guides in Puerto Madryn and choose from a mosaic of tours that promise a respectful and enriching experience of exploring nature’s hidden alcoves. Secure a seat on a guided expedition to connect with the land and its inhabitants in a meaningful way.

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6. Bariloche

Perched along the shores of a vast cerulean lake, Bariloche awaits with a scene that steals your breath away. Your gaze lands on the jade embrace of Nahuel Huapi National Park enveloping the town, a view acclaimed for its raw beauty.

The Essence of Bariloche:

• Mountain Hues and Lake Views: The captivating vistas from Cerro Otto.
• Lakeside Leisure: Limited beach space eclipsed by a myriad of aquatic sports.

Outdoor enthusiasts converge on Bariloche, lured by the prospect of carving through powder at Cerro Catedral or scaling rocky heights in quest of panoramic bliss. When the snow blankets the town, it transforms into a hub akin to Alpine retreats, welcoming everyone with open arms and an array of local chocolates and craft brews to warm the spirit.

Venture west to encounter cascading waterfalls and the frosty spectacles of Pampa Lenda. To the north, the Seven Lakes Road entices with a dramatic succession of water and mountain scenes, a visual feast best savored unhurriedly. In the season’s warmth, embrace the lake’s invitation to fish its depths or indulge in sun-drenched moments on the shore.

Activites to Embrace:

• Winter Sports: Hit the slopes, or tuck into artisanal chocolate delights.
• Summer Pursuits: Cast your line or navigate the lake’s serene expanse.

Bariloche, a sanctuary for the adventurous spirit, ensures that your visit will be more than a mere glimpse into nature’s grandeur—it will be an all-embracing experience of Argentina’s vigorous heart.

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7. Ushuaia

Welcome to Ushuaia, a city that sits on the Beagle Strait, hailed as the southernmost city on the globe. Often referred to as the gateway to Antarctica, it boasts a landscape dotted with resorts contrasting its early history as a place of exile and naval operations.

Things to see and experience in Ushuaia:

• Maritime Excellence: Dive into naval history at the Maritime and the Old Prison Museum, and wander the hallways of a bygone penal era.
• Train to the Wilderness: The End of the World Train takes you on a historic route westward, to the heart of Tierra del Fuego National Park.
• Natural Splendors: In the same direction, seek out the pristine environments of Tierra del Fuego, a region of untouched forests, and delicate eco-balances.
• Penguin Spotting: Navigate the Beagle Channel for a nautical adventure, and keep your eyes peeled for penguins and basking sea lions.

Active Exploration:

• Glacier Views: Strap on your boots for a trek up to the Martial Glacier, rewarding yourself with panoramic vistas.
• Eastward Trails: Discover the serene Fagnano Lake and numerous eastern trails, ideal for the hiking enthusiast.

In Ushuaia, every step is a fresh page in a narrative of discovery—your story is waiting to unfold amidst this backdrop of extremes.

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8. Mendoza

Amid the vast wine region of Latin America, your travels lead you to Mendoza, an oasis of oenophile delights nestled against the towering backdrop of Aconcagua. As the highest peak in the Americas, Aconcagua stands as a silent giant presiding over the bountiful vineyards that stretch across this sun-drenched province.

At the pulse of this city, you find Independence Plaza, a vibrant nexus of cultural life set amid a constellation of dining establishments, specialty shops, and architectural wonders that come alive under the evening lights.

Despite its desert surroundings, Mendoza thrives, thanks in part to a unique irrigation system derived naturally, channeling life into the city and its surrounding vineyards. Keep an eye out for the sparkling waterways by the roadsides, connected by bridges that serve as lifelines to this fertile enclave.

As for the heart of Mendoza’s charm—the bodegas—these are not mere wineries but gateways to indulgence in the form of intimate vineyard strolls and expert-led wine tastings. Imagining yourself cycling from estate to estate, glass in hand, is to know the true spirit of Mendoza.

While spontaneous visits are a joy, remember that the harvest season in March and April sees Mendoza in high demand. To witness the harvest up close, it’s wise to book your vineyard excursions well in advance, allowing you to savor the full-bodied experience without the rush.

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9. El Chalten

Nestled in the rugged expanse of Argentina’s Patagonia, the quaint town of El Chaltén serves as an idyllic basecamp for outdoor enthusiasts. Established in the late 1970s, this village exudes a frontier charm, beckoning adventurers with its proximity to the imposing Mount Fitz Roy and Cerro Torres — Patagonia’s crown jewels.

Trails for Every Trekker: From your first breath of crisp, mountain air, numerous trails invite your footsteps. Opt for the serene journey to Lago del Desierto or witness the sunrise bathe the peaks in hues of gold at Laguna Capri. For the bold, the paths leading to Laguna de los Tres or Laguna Torre offer a more strenuous challenge, rewarding hikers with unparalleled vistas.

Post-hike, unwind at the village’s famed La Cerveceria, a local brewery that’s become the heart of El Chaltén. Here, savor a well-earned craft beer and share tales of the day’s conquests with fellow trekkers. As the gateway to the northern stretches of Los Glaciares National Park, El Chaltén isn’t just a stop on your itinerary — it’s a highlight.

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10. Los Glaciares

Draped in the serene ice tapestry of Argentina, Los Glaciares National Park presents a realm where colossal ice formations command the landscape. Within the park’s southern reaches, you will witness the ebb and flow of nature’s ice artisans at work—a dynamic process of glaciers advancing and retreating. The symphony of cracking ice echoes through the valleys as massive ice blocks calve, making a spectacular entrance into the park’s frigid lakes.

As you traverse the intricate network of boardwalks or glide across the waters by boat, each iceberg encountered is a sculptural masterpiece, with hues and shapes that entrance and inspire. To the north, pristine trails await, leading you toward iconic peaks such as Mount Fitz Roy, challenging both hikers and climbers with its rugged beauty.

Perito Moreno Glacier stands as the park’s crown jewel, consistently drawing globetrotters to witness its towering ice walls shatter and cascade into the argent depths below—a powerful display of natural prowess. Here, you can immerse yourself in an expedition that not only brings you face-to-face with elemental forces but also carves a lasting memory of Patagonia’s wild heart.

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11. Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires is a city that thrives in the after-hours, where the sultry tango dance emerged as a testament to its passionate soul. Nestled on the Southeastern coast of South America, this Argentine capital is more European in its bones than its geography would suggest—with a grid of French and Italian-inspired buildings.

• Entertainment: The cityscape comes alive at dusk with curtain rises in theaters and the clink of glasses in bustling bars.
• Architecture: The confluence of French and Italian motifs colors Buenos Aires’ buildings, an eclectic blend bestowing a unique elegance upon each barrio.
• Dining: Dinner is a late affair; so, adjust your clock, the night sees no early birds here.

Barrios breathe unique life into the city’s heart:

• Microcentro: The Obelisco stands as a proud emblem.
• San Telmo: Bustles every Sunday with a flea market that bears hidden treasures.
• La Boca: A kaleidoscope of facades, where tango dancers swirl on cobblestones.

Cultural appetite? Indulge it amidst a panorama of museums and art galleries; Buenos Aires is a beacon for Latin America’s most fervent cultural pursuits. Captivating street performances of tango are more than just dance—they’re narratives told through self-expressive movement and close embraces, often found in neighborhood venues, infusing ordinary locales with extraordinary charm.

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12. Iguazu Falls

Straddling the seam between Argentina and Brazil, Iguazu Falls is a formidable natural wonder carved by water and time. The site, Parque Nacional Iguazú, near Puerto Iguazú, hosts this stunning array of waterfalls, which outclasses others in both size and majesty.

The centerpiece of this cascade collection is the Devil’s Throat, a spectacle nearly twice the height of its North American counterpart, Niagara Falls. As you wander the extensive walkways throughout the park, the thunderous roar of water plunging into the abyss becomes your companion, a soundtrack to the visual feast before your eyes.

Iguazu National Park is not only about the falls. It cradles some of the last fragments of the Atlantic rainforests, an ecological tapestry rich with endemic flora and fauna. Here, you might encounter a variety of local residents such as howler monkeys, jaguars, and diverse bird species fluttering between over 2,000 identified plant varieties.

Take to the waters on a boat tour, and let the refreshing mist reinvigorate your senses. Or, embark on a jungle safari and trace the footsteps of elusive wildlife. The experience at Iguazu Falls is an immersive dance with nature – a pristine rhapsody of sights and sounds.

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