Argentina is a land of rich diversity and contrasting climatic conditions, from subtropical rainforests to icy Antarctic plains. In a country of almost 3 million square kilometers, there are many spectacular destinations to choose from. We have highlighted five of the best but there is much more of interest to explore.
The coastline is a staggering 4,700 km long. However, our sightseeing trip is going to take us inland, mostly along the western borders of the country. Why not engage one of our well-travelled Argentinian private tour guides to fill in the gaps as you go? They will create a private tour just for you, taking into consideration your unique interests and schedule.
Iguazu Falls
On the edge of the Paraná Plateau where the borders of Paraguay, Brazil, and Argentina meet, we find the Iguazu Falls. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is also considered to be one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. The 275 cascades make up the largest broken waterfall in the world, and are most breathtaking when viewed from the Argentinian side.
It is best to visit in the early spring and autumn, when the volume of water does not obscure the falls with mist and the temperatures are mild. Visitors can explore the many walkways that have been built, allowing you to capture panoramic views of the falls while getting close enough to be sprayed.
The nearby Iguazu National Park is home to over 2,000 indigenous species of plants, 400 bird species, 80 mammals, and countless butterflies. The toucans and parrots are easiest to spot because of their size and particularly colorful plumage.
The Iguazu Falls are a 90 minute flight away from Buenos Aires. Passengers arrive at Puerto Iguazu, and then drive for half an hour to the falls. Accommodation is available in town, in the national park, and at a variety of secluded lodges in the forest. Contact one of our Argentine tour guides to help you set everything up without a fuss.
The Winelands of Mendoza
Vine cuttings were first planted in Argentina in the middle of the 16th century shortly after the first Spanish settlers arrived. Today, wine is produced in 14 of the 23 provinces, and the country is the fifth largest producer in the world. About three quarters of Argentina’s wine is produced in the Mendoza Province.
The town of Mendoza is situated in the foothills of the Andes, a two hour flight due west from Buenos Aires. The best time to visit the winelands would be in March when the grapes are being harvested, and the vineyards form a rich patchwork of autumn hues. The wine route has attracted a number of popular tourist activities, such as arts and crafts outlets, restaurants, and live music and dance shows.
Mendoza’s other claim to fame is Aconcagua, the highest mountain outside of the Himalayas. If you visit the area in winter, the winelands will be set against a backdrop of snow-covered mountains.
There is plenty for the outdoor enthusiast to do in the area all year round, including rock climbing, white water rafting, and horse riding. For added adventure, why not take a scenic drive to the Chilean border, or beyond? The main road is well maintained and presents many photo opportunities, but may be congested. There are alternative dirt roads that will require an off-road vehicle.
The Route of the Seven Lakes
Approximately 1,300 km south along National Route 40, Argentina’s longest road, you will find the country’s Lake District. The road undulates and meanders through the mountains, with lake after lake unfolding around each turn. There are quaint towns along the route, with accommodation at each end.
The area is accessible all year round, with each season having its own appeal. Autumn is recommended as the forest foliage is at its most memorable. In summer, rustic sleeping facilities are available, and outdoor camping is allowed in the Lanin National Park. The park is on the border with Chile, and is home to the Lanin volcano.
In winter, you might like to make a short detour to the Cerro Chapelco Ski Resort near San Martin de los Andes. It has a small but striking skiable terrain, with a 730 meter vertical drop across its 22 trails, much of it above the treeline. Alternatively, you can go for a ride on a snowmobile or try your hand at dog sledding.
Glacier Park
Another 1,500 km south down Route 40 is the Los Glaciares National Park. Alternatively, there are daily flights to and from Buenos Aires and Bariloche, the airport closest to the Seven Lakes.
The 600,000 hectare park is home to 356 glaciers, and is the third largest freshwater reserve in the world. The most accessible glacier is the Perito Merino Glacier. The 250 square kilometer ice field is 70 meters high, and one of the few in the world that is still growing.
The massive wall of ice advances between June and December, and recedes again until March. Every 3-4 years the pressure of the growing glacier and the water causes the dike to rupture. As the water starts to escape, an ice bridge forms. Hundreds of tons of ice crack and crash into the water below.
Along the face of the glacier, the ice is constantly calving, sending massive shards sliding down. The authorities have deemed the area safe enough for sailing, kayaking, and ice hiking. If you’re a nature enthusiast, a visit to this park will make for an unforgettable experience. Contact our Argentine private guides for advice on how to plan your trip.
Tierra del Fuego
Our last stop is at Ushuaia, the world’s southernmost city, and capital of the Province of Tierra del Fuego. In the summer months, the town fills with tourists waiting to board ships to Antarctica.
The Tierra del Fuego archipelago is known as the ‘End of the World’, and there is much to discover at this southern tip of the Andes. You can walk in the footsteps of great explorers such as Charles Darwin and Ferdinand Magellan. The weather is surprisingly mild given the latitude of the area.
Glacier Alley in the national park showcases the transition from mountains and icy streams to the glaciers and frozen waterfalls in the picturesque fjords. You have the option to get away from it all on one of the well marked multi-day hikes in this wilderness area. Alternatively, take a short island hopping boat trip to see the Magellanic and Gentoo Penguins in their natural habitat.
In Ushuaia, the End of the World Museum chronicles the history of the territory by way of stories of the indigenous inhabitants, documentaries of the shipwrecks off the treacherous coast, and a replica of a general store vital to the well being of the settlers.
Conclusion
Hopefully, this selection of highlights of the west of Argentina will spark your interest. The vast rural outreaches of plains, mountains, lakes, and rivers are astounding to behold.
Sightseeing in a country as large and diverse as Argentina can prove challenging, however. Our Argentinian tour guides specialize in smoothing out the logistics for you, transforming your Argentine private tour into a relaxing and memorable adventure.
