When we say Argentina has something for everyone, we’re not just throwing out the clichés for the sake of it. This South American country stretches 3,800km (2,360 mi) from the north to the south with any number of incredible things to see, do, eat, and drink along the way.
In fact, on the best shortlist of stuff to do in Argentina, it doesn’t matter whether you’re a foodie, culture vulture, history buff, nature lover, or a mix of all of the above. Between hiking mountains, digging into asado, sipping on wines, and waving to wildlife, we’ve pulled together an unmissable list of things to do in Argentina. Meet you at the tango hall?
1. Marvel at Iguassu Falls
Thought Niagara Falls was impressive? Meet Iguazu Falls: one of the largest and most breathtaking waterfall systems in the world, featuring 275 individual falls that stretch nearly three kilometres across the Iguazu River.
These falls are taller than Niagara and nearly twice as wide, offering awe-inspiring panoramic views. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the falls are spread over both Argentina and Brazil, with the Argentine side of the falls offering the best up-close views.
Visit in the early hours for the best photo opportunities: the lighting here is incredible before the crowds arrive. Keep an eye out for beautiful butterflies and toucans while you're exploring, too.
2. Explore vibrant Buenos Aires
Argentina's capital is often referred to as the ‘Paris of South America’, thanks to its European architecture and stylish vibe. We could write an entire guide on things to do in Buenos Aires but we’ll summarize with its top spots. The city is known for a few key things: a football obsession, gorgeously historic cafes, and being the birthplace of Tango. A productive trip here brings together all three.
Head to Café Tortoni, founded in 1858, if you're a book lover. La Boca is a must-visit for checking out the Tango scene, and it's virtually impossible to wander around the city without soaking up some football culture. Plus, don’t miss Palermo for its stylish restaurants and parks and San Telmo for its bohemian vibe and antique markets.
3. Discover glaciers in El Calafate
When it comes to things to do in Argentina, glacier trekking might initially feel a little out of your comfort zone. But a trip to El Calafate is a must-do while exploring the country and promises plenty of incredible, brag-worthy memories on the ice. This quaint Patagonian town serves as the gateway to the awe-inspiring Los Glaciares National Park and is home to the Perito Moreno Glacier, one of the few advancing glaciers in the world.
The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to 47 large glaciers, including Perito Moreno, Upsala, and Spegazzini. Not a fan of the cold? It's still worth visiting, even if you opt for a short ice hike with a guide.
4. Visit an authentic Estancia
Estancias are large rural ranches in Argentina and show a different side of the country's personality, namely its gaucho (cowboy) culture.
You can visit plenty of these as day trips but you'll want to stay overnight for the full experience. Here, dig into traditional barbecue, listen to folklore music, and wake up for an early morning horse ride through nature.
These historic buildings typically date back more than a century, which means the farm houses, chapels, and barns you'll sleep in come complete with intriguing stories.
5. Hike the trails of El Chalten
El Chaltén is Argentina's premier hiking destination and promises an adventure through the stunning landscapes of Patagonia. Sitting at the base of the iconic Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre mountains, El Chaltén offers some of the most breathtaking trekking opportunities in the world, with trails that range from just-woke-up-twently-minutes-ago casual walks to challenging climbs.
If you're an avid climber, you've probably heard of Mount Fitz Roy: a dramatic mountain peak beloved for its striking silhouette. While exploring the area, save some time to check out Laguna de los Tres or Laguna Torre: incredible glacial lakes filled with turquoise waters.
6. Enjoy skiing in Bariloche
Bariloche offers the quintessential skiing experience in Argentina, from its impressive and challenging runs through to its famously hearty cuisine: the perfect way to round off a day on the slopes.
For skiers, Cerro Catedral is the largest ski resort in South America, home to over 120 kilometres of skiable terrain and a variety of runs for all skill levels. For those who prefer the après to the ski, Bariloche is still worth a wander. It's often compared to traditional Swiss alpine towns, thanks to its 20th-century German and Swiss immigrant heritage. If you're here in August, swing by for the annual chocolate festival.
7. Savour wines in Mendoza
You don't have to be a connoisseur to know that wine culture and Mendoza go hand-in-hand. Argentina's premier wine region is celebrated for its Malbec wines and picturesque vineyards set against the backdrop of the Andes Mountains.
The region is home to some of the best Malbec vineyards in the world, which is all the justification we need to sample as many bottles as possible. Visit during March for the Fiesta Nacional de la Vendimia (Grape Harvest Festival) or during the summer months for bike tours.
As well as Malbec, you'll find plenty of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, and Torrontés here. Advance warning: save some space in your backpack for a few bottles.
8. Experience Patagonia's wild beauty
Patagonia is one of the most breathtaking and untamed regions in the world. Home to dramatic landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and rugged natural beauty, this is a place that'll have you appreciating Mother Nature like never before.
Amongst its famous peaks, you could come across guanacos (relatives of llamas), Andean condors, and the elusive puma while, in the coastal areas, you can spot marine life like sea lions and penguins. The main perks here come in the form of trekking, including iconic landmarks like the Fitz Roy massif and Cerro Torre.
9. Watch wildlife on Valdés Peninsula
Visit Valdés Peninsula between June and December to spot nesting Southern right whales or between September to April to see the Magellanic penguins who call this peninsula home. Yet another UNESCO World Heritage Site, located in Argentina’s Patagonia region, it’s a top spot for wildlife tours and is renowned for its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes.
While it's a little more off the beaten track (it's a flight or a long distance bus from Buenos Aires) it's well worth the journey for any budding photographer or anyone who appreciates incredible wildlife views.
10. Cruise through Beagle Channel
You'll venture down to the southernmost point of Argentina (more on that later) to visit the Beagle Channel so, as you might expect, bring along plenty of warm clothes.
The Beagle Channel separates the southern tip of the Andes from the archipelagos of Tierra del Fuego and is a remarkable — if a little rocky — journey through one of the most stunning and remote maritime landscapes in the world.
Check out the famous Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse as well as plenty of shipwrecks from years past. You've got two options for booking trips here: either far in advance or literally the day before, in order to get the best prices. It’s worth asking for the Whatsapp number of a few tour guides if you’re hoping for the latter.
11. Explore Tierra del Fuego Park
Just west of Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego National Park is one of the southernmost parks in the world, home to forests, lakes, rivers, peat bogs, and fjords.
This is a place where you'll leave filled to the brim with interesting historical and geographical facts. Birdwatchers can spot species like the Magellanic woodpecker and the Chilean teal while those with a keen eye can look out for the Andean fox and the rare southern beech trees.
More into history than nature? The park also contains remnants of ancient indigenous cultures, including the Yámana people, as well as sites dating back to early European exploration.
12. Explore Esteros del Iberá wetlands
The name ‘Iberá’ comes from the Guaraní language and means ‘bright waters’, giving you an idea of what to expect when you visit this interconnected system of lagoons, marshes, and floating islands.
A wildlife haven, you'll spot caimans, capybaras, marsh deer, howler monkeys, and the incredibly-rare maned wolf if you visit at the right time.
This stunning natural reserve covers over 13,000 square km (5,000 square miles) and is best explored via boat safari or nature walks. Or, for something a little different, go on horseback.
13. Summit mighty Aconcagua
What to do in Argentina when you’ve done all the main touristy stuff? How about climbing one of the world’s toughest mountains? Spoiler alert: you won't be summiting Aconcagua casually during your trip to Argentina. But, if you're a keen mountaineer and love a challenge, the highest mountain in both the Western and Southern Hemispheres promises quite the exciting adventure.
Aconcagua is the highest peak outside of the Himalayas and the highest mountain in the Americas. The 'normal route' (its official name, no less) takes an average of 18 to 20 days.
When it comes to things to see and do in Argentina, this one doesn't top the list for many but, if you're looking for something literally off the beaten track, it's worth considering.
14. Adventure in Argentina’s Lake District
It's hard to put the Lake District's sheer beauty into words. Along with an endless highlights reel of crystal-clear lakes, you'll wake up to backdrops of snow-capped mountains, hike through dense forests, and spend your evenings exploring the surrounding alpine towns.
While the most popular spot, Lake Nahuel Huapi, is definitely worth visiting, we love heading to slightly quieter spots like Lake Traful. If you're not a hiker, this region is also perfect for canoeing, kayaking, mountain biking, and fishing.
15. Spot dinosaurs in Neuquén
You've probably seen photos of Neuquén without even realizing: its Lanín Volcano is one of the most iconic peaks in Patagonia.
But there's another reason to visit this part of the country. The region is often referred to as Argentina’s ‘Dinosaur Valley’, complete with fossils of massive dinosaurs like the Argentinosaurus, a replica of that same beast at the Carmen Funes Museum, and guided tours of the paleontological sites where fossils are still being excavated.
Fun fact: as well as being renowned for dinosaurs, it's also a top spot for Pinot Noir. Name a better combo?
16. Spot wildlife in Falkland Islands
Okay, so you'll need to plan ahead a little if your dream Argentina trip includes popping across to the Falklands. But, if you can squeeze it in, you'll be treated to wildlife views unlike anything else. The Falklands are home to five species of penguins, large colonies of South American sea lions and elephant seals, more than 200 species of birds, and Falkland Islands foxes.
The main gateway to the Falklands is via flights from Santiago but you'll want to book these in advance. Keep in mind too that the Falklands are a British Overseas Territory, so you may need a visa (or a visa waiver) to enter.
17. Reach the end in Ushuaia
Argentina — completed it? Not quite, until you've ventured to the southernmost city on Earth. Part of Argentina but clinging on between the Beagle Channel and the Martial Mountains, Ushuaia is often referred to as the "end of the world" with scenery to match.
During your time here, take the Tren del Fin del Mundo (literally ‘End of the World Train’) through Tierra del Fuego National Park and spend a couple of hours at the Museum at the End of the World. Spotting a theme yet?
If you're heading to Antarctica, this spot is your launchpad. If not, you can still do day trips around Cape Horn and the southern islands for a much lower price.
