Tourism In Argentina Statistics 2024: A Comprehensive Travel Guide

 

Welcome to Argentina, a captivating country boasting diverse landscapes and a vibrant culture. From the majestic Andes Mountains to the iconic Iguazu Falls, Argentina offers breathtaking natural wonders. Whether you're solo, or with a local Argentina tour guide, you can dive into the heartbeat of Buenos Aires with its tango passion, explore colorful neighborhoods and savor exquisite cuisine, making every moment an unforgettable adventure.

 

After all, this is why the country has been a magnet for tourists! In terms of how many tourists visit Argentina each year, the country welcomed an average of 693,290 visitors per month from 2004 to 2023. It reached an all-time high in March 2015 with 1,851,392 arrivals, but that’s not where it ends. So let’s discover why Argentina is a rapidly growing destination, shall we? 

 

 

Argentina By The Numbers: A Closer Look

Spread across a vast land area of 2,736,690 km2, Argentina is the world's 8th largest country. The country, bounded by Chile, Bolivia, Paraguay, Brazil, Uruguay and the Atlantic Ocean, showcases a diverse geography stretching over 2,900 miles. So is tourism big in Argentina? Yes! The Travel & Tourism market contributed a staggering 46.4 billion USD to the nation’s GDP, and though that number dipped in 2020, by 2021 it had shot up to 33.7 billion USD.

 

 

As a global tourist destination, Argentina attracts visitors from various corners of the world. So which country visits Argentina the most?  In 2021, despite low tourism numbers, the top tourists from different regions visiting Argentina were: 

 

• Europe - 73.1K visitors in 2021 

• United States & Canada - 45.1K visitors in 2021

• Brazil - 45.1K visitors in 2021

• Uruguay - 32.6K visitors in 2021 

• Chile - 28.9K visitors in 2021 

 

Argentina in 2024: Trends and Updates in the Travel Landscape

Argentina annually welcomed millions of visitors throughout the 2010s, reaching 7.4 million in 2019. However, the tourism sector faced significant disruptions due to the COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in a substantial decline to 2.09 million arrivals in 2020 and a mere 300,000 in 2021. But they’re on the road to recovery, with a 33.5% increase in visitors in January 2024!

 

So how does Tourism affect the economy in Argentina? 2023 brought a positive shift, with estimates indicating over 1,300,000 foreign tourists visiting Argentina. This marked an 18.8% increase compared to the same month in the previous year, contributing to an income of $656 million, which was a stunning a 24.1% jump upwards.

 

So, how many tourists visited Argentina in 2023? According to a report from the National Directorate of Markets and Statistics of the Ministry of Tourism and Sports of the Nation, the period between January 1 and November 30, 2023, witnessed more than 6.5 million trips by foreign tourists to Argentina. These trips generated an income of $4.5 billion, surpassing pre-pandemic levels and reaching new heights as of April in the same year.

 

Argentina Tourism Quick Stats

 

 

• 7.4 million - The number of international visitors that came to Argentina in 2019. 

• 8.9% - The percentage that tourism and travel contributed to Argentina’s GDP in 2019

• 6.5 million - the number of trips made by foreign tourists to Argentina from Jan–Nov 2023.

• 54th - the position Argentina holds on the Global Peace Index for 2023. 

 

Travel Trivia: Argentina's allure extends beyond its statistics, so let us give you 3 interesting facts about Argentina:

 

1. The richness of its history is encapsulated in its declaration of independence in 1816 after three centuries of Spanish colonization. 

2. The name ‘Argentina’ itself is derived from the Latin word for silver, argentum, reflecting the country's historical wealth.

3. Argentina’s national drink is a caffeine-packed treat called Yerba maté.

 

Fascinating, right? But where should you go when visiting? Drumroll please…

 

Top Tourist Attractions in Argentina for Unforgettable Experiences

Argentina’s varied geography can be grouped into four major regions: the Andes, the North, the Pampas and Patagonia, each with amazing attractions to visit within. Let’s explore them!

 

 

• Buenos Aires: Argentina's dynamic capital, stands as a cosmopolitan hub with a rich cultural and architectural heritage, vibrant nightlife, unique traditions and a thriving arts scene. 

• The Pampas: Vast plains in central Argentina, offer a captivating vacation with breathtaking landscapes, cultural history and activities such as horseback riding, exploring Campos del Tuyú National Park and savoring authentic asados in Tandil. 

• Iguazu Falls: Along the border with Brazil, boasts around 300 falls, including the majestic Devil's Throat, providing captivating up-close views. 

• The Northwest: Showcases Martian landscapes, quaint towns and picturesque vineyards, with attractions like Salta, Jujuy and Los Cardones National Park. 

• Mendoza: Offers stunning scenery with the Andes, Mount Aconcagua, diverse hiking trails and renowned wineries. 

• Patagonia: In the southernmost part of Argentina, Patagonia impresses with varied landscapes, from mountains to the Atlantic coast, offering amazing treks. 

 

 

• Esteros del Iberá: The world's second-largest wetland, it’s a remote ecosystem in Corrientes, known for wildlife, including jaguars. 

• Quebrada de Humahuaca: A 155-kilometer-long mountain valley, captivates with rainbow hues, brilliantly colored rock formations, historic villages and the enchanting Cerro de Los Siete Colores.

• Ushuaia: Situated on the Tierra del Fuego archipelago in South America, known as the ‘End of the World,’ offers diverse activities and stunning landscapes.

• The Southern Patagonian Ice Field: The world's third-largest ice cap, witness the captivating Perito Moreno Glacier, with constantly calving ice into the lake below.

• El Calafate: Head to Lake Argentina's shore for flamingo photos against snow-capped mountains.

• Península Valdés: Patagonian nature reserve showcasing fantastic ocean wildlife, including whales, sea lions and elephant seals.

• Bariloche and the Lake District: Resembling the Alps, these are popular Argentina vacation spots for skiing, trekking, fishing, climbing and enjoying landscapes dominated by virgin forests and glacier-fed lakes.

• Mount Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre: Both are coveted for their breathtaking beauty and technical climbs.

 

Want to travel as the locals do? Let’s check out some local experiences.

 

Local Experiences: Immersing Yourself in the Authentic Argentina

Other than stunning sights, Argentina is rich with culture and festivals to enjoy and be amongst. From food to activities, we’ve listed places to get you started below:

 

• Buenos Aires Tango Festival: Held annually in August, this festival transforms the city into a global Tango hub where professional and amateur dancers from around the world showcase their skills, offering free classes for enthusiasts to join in the two-week celebration.

• The Cosquin Festival: In the quaint town of Cosquin in January/February is a popular and historically rich event that initially focused on music and local folklore, later expanding to include food stalls, drinking competitions and folklore recitals, offering a vibrant immersion into local culture.

• The Buenos Aires Carnival: Held annually in February, this carnival features a lively parade with water bombs, traditional customs and the highlight Murga parade — a vibrant celebration of Argentinian carnival music and dance, offering a glimpse into the country's colonial past.

 

 

But what is the tourism like in Argentina? As mentioned above, tourism in Argentina is quite diverse and there are a range of reasons why tourism is big in Argentina. Let’s go over a few:

 

• Digital Nomad Haven: Exploring Work-Friendly Spaces in Argentina- Argentina beckons digital nomads with its diverse and picturesque landscapes, ranging from the bustling city of Buenos Aires to the serene expanses of Patagonia. Boasting a growing infrastructure and robust internet connectivity, the country provides an enticing environment for remote workers seeking a harmonious blend of work and exploration.
• Football Fever: Dive into the Passionate Sports Culture of Argentina - Argentina's fervent sports culture, synonymous with football, lures fans globally. The country, home to legends like Diego Maradona and Lionel Messi, sees tourists attending matches, especially in Buenos Aires, where football is a way of life. The legendary rivalry between Boca Juniors and River Plate, two of Argentina's top clubs, draws fans worldwide to witness the intense atmosphere in the stadiums.
• Tango!: If you ask yourself, ‘Why is Argentina so famous?’ this might be it. You can’t visit Argentina without learning the essence of Tango, a deeply rooted aspect of Argentine culture originating in Buenos Aires and Montevideo in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. See tango dancers in action at Plaza Dorrego in the San Telmo neighborhood, where couples spontaneously perform, and explore the nightly milongas (ballrooms/dance rooms) across the city. 

If you prefer activities to sights, consider incorporating the following activities into your Argentina itinerary for a fully immersive experience in this captivating country:

 

• Walk among penguins

• Kayak among whales in Peninsula Valdés

• Hike in El Chaltén

• Watch the sunrise in the Laguna de los Tres

• Go on an expedition to the Southern Patagonian Ice Field

• Have a cocktail and enjoy the views from a rooftop in Buenos Aires

• Try mini-trekking over the Perito Moreno Glacier

• Fly in a helicopter over Tierra del Fuego

• Stay in the Uco Valley in Mendoza and taste the best Malbec in the world

• Drive along the scenic Ruta 40 and take a road trip in the Northwest

• Enjoy a glamping experience in the Lake District

• Join a safari in the Ibera Wetlands and sleep in a lodge overlooking Iguazu Falls

 

 

Argentine Cuisine Unveiled: Must-Try Dishes and Culinary Delights

Argentinian food might not be the most well-known around the world, but it must not be missed. Full of flavors, it’s quite diverse from its many influences, and there are MANY must-try dishes to devour while there. Below is a list to get your taste buds dancing:

 

• Asado: Argentina's national dish, is an extreme form of barbecue, incorporating a variety of meats like pork, chicken, sausages, morcilla, and churrasco, cooked on a parilla (iron grill) for a tender and juicy culinary experience deeply woven into the fabric of Argentinian culture.

• Empanadas: a popular Argentinian street food, are delicious stuffed dough pockets introduced by Spanish immigrants in the 16th century. Whether baked or fried, they come in diverse fillings, from meats like beef, chorizo, and chicken to fruits, beans, seafood, and cheese, offering a creative and flavorful option for everyone.

• Choripán: popular street food in Argentina, Choripán is a chorizo sandwich served on a baguette or marraqueta roll, often enjoyed at asados or as a convenient and flavorful on-the-go lunch, featuring the option to enhance its taste with chimichurri or salsa golf.

• Alfajores: Argentina's answer to French macarons are crumbly shortbread sandwich cookies with origins in Arab culture, brought to Argentina by Spanish explorers. These treats, often filled with dulce de leche or other sweet fillings, are a significant part of Argentine culture, enjoyed throughout the day, with Havanna being one of the most renowned brands.

• Torta Rogel: a traditional Argentine dessert, features layers of crunchy egg yolk biscuits filled with dulce de leche and topped with a typically Italian meringue layer, creating a delightful balance of sweetness.

• Provoleta: an Italian-inspired dish featuring provolone cheese grilled to perfection, topped with chili flakes and oregano for extra flavor, resulting in a creamy melt that's slightly crispy on the outside, commonly served as a popular appetizer at restaurants or during an asado.

 

Now that your stomach is rumbling, let’s learn about how to get around this beautiful country.

 

Transportation in Argentina: Navigating the Country with Ease

While public transport is exceptional in major cities like Buenos Aires, helped by the convenient SUBE smart card, travelers may find it slightly limited in more remote areas like Patagonia, where driving could be a more viable option despite the associated expenses.

 

In the cities, here are the methods of transport you’re likely to use:

 

• Train: Argentina has the world's 7th largest railway network, covering 36,966 miles, with a primary suburban train connecting Buenos Aires to outlying areas and offering various ticket classes for travelers, including long-distance trains operating domestically and internationally.

• Buses: known as colectivos, are the primary and excellent mode of public transport in Argentina, covering extensive routes in major cities with varying reliability. Operated by different companies, buses offer fixed or variable fares, coin machines for boarding, and tickets available at kiosks. Argentina's long-distance buses, akin to business class cabins, provide on-board dining options, allowing for comfortable travel across the country with different seat classes available.

• Underground rail: Buenos Aires hosts South America's oldest subway system, the Subte, with six easily navigated lines. To use it, experts can obtain a SUBE smart card available at subway stations, tourist centers, or street-side kiosks, as Buenos Aires is currently the sole city in Argentina with an underground train network, with plans underway for a network in Córdoba.

• Taxis and ride-sharing services: Argentina has ride-sharing services like Uber in urban areas, offering a hassle-free alternative for non-Spanish speakers, while hailing local taxis is straightforward, though basic Spanish knowledge is beneficial. In Buenos Aires, most taxis accept only cash, but the city's app, BA Taxi, allows users to request and pay for taxis with a credit card.

• Trams: Trams are gradually returning to Argentina, with a line in Buenos Aires connecting to the SUBTE system and a light rail system in the city's northern suburbs, while trolleybuses powered by overhead electric lines operate in Córdoba, Mendoza, and Rosario.

• Cycling: Buenos Aires has prioritized cycling with extensive bike lanes, and the city introduced Ecobici, a bike-sharing scheme allowing free 24-hour borrowing from over 100 stations.

 

 

Weather in Argentina: Best Times to Visit for Ideal Conditions

 

 

Northern Argentina experiences a subtropical climate, with Buenos Aires, the capital, having a humid subtropical climate, averaging 18°C annually with over 1000mm of rainfall. Summers reach 30 degrees, and winter in July can drop below freezing, often accompanied by thunderstorms and the world's largest hail.

 

The Northern Regions have hot, humid summers and milder, drier winters with potential droughts. Further north, conditions become more tropical, and moving west towards Chile results in less rainfall, harsher weather and higher temperatures, creating uncomfortable conditions in the northwest.

 

• In Central Argentina, weather conditions vary with influence from the Andes to the west. The Pampas plains, a rich agricultural region, has lots of summer rainfall with occasional winter droughts, offering a pleasant climate due to the distance from the tropics and coastal influences.

• Heading west toward the Andes brings a drier climate, as the mountains act as a rain shadow and barrier to westerly winds from Chile. Southern Argentina, especially near the mountains, experiences arid and desert-like conditions.

• In the south, the climate becomes cooler, with warm summers and cold winters bringing heavy snowfall, particularly in the mountains. This region has a continental climate with significant temperature variations throughout the year and from day to night. The southeast is flat and arid, resembling a semidesert landscape.

What is the tourist season for Argentina? While the high season in Argentina runs from mid-September to mid-April, offering peak summer experiences in the Southern Hemisphere, the country boasts attractions year-round. 

 

 

• Spring (September–November): Showcases the beauty of Argentina's landscapes, especially the blossoming jacarandas, making it an ideal time for exploring both northern areas and Patagonia.

• Summer (December–February): The peak season for outdoor activities, offering warmth and the best time to visit Patagonia. 

• Autumn (March–May): Vibrant colors adorn Argentinian landscapes, creating an excellent backdrop for photography enthusiasts. 

• Winter (June–August): Marks the low season, with July and August being perfect for snow activities in Patagonia.

 

But what about what and what not to do when traveling in Argentina?

 

Dos & Don'ts For Travelers In Argentina

 

 

Do:

 

• Arrive late: In Argentina, being fashionably late is the norm, with most events starting 20 to 40 minutes behind schedule; cultural events like Teatro Colón shows may begin on time, but heading to a bar before 11:30 PM is premature, as Buenos Aires' vibrant nightlife kicks off after 1 AM in some of the world's best nightclubs.

• Expect your personal space to be evaded: In Argentina, expect a typical greeting of one kiss on the cheek, even with strangers of any gender – meetings start and end with a kiss and a ‘chau’. As avid huggers, Argentines are accustomed to physical affection, so if you value personal space, be cautious.

• Carry small change on you: In Argentina, always carry small change as few places accept bills over 1000, especially taxis; using cash is preferred since debit/credit cards aren't widely used, making cash more reliable for transactions in any store.

 

Don’t:

 

• Discuss sensitive topics: In Argentina, discussions on sensitive topics like international politics (especially involving the US) and Argentine history can lead to unpredictable reactions, so it's wise to be well-prepared and informed if you decide to engage, and opinions on Argentine politics are best avoided unless you have up-to-date knowledge on culture, society, and the economy.

• Compare Argentinian food to international food: In Buenos Aires, distinguishing mate from tea and dulce de leche from caramel is crucial, as comparing local foods to international counterparts is frowned upon, reflecting a lack of cultural understanding; if unsure, just ask. And as a general rule, avoid putting your feet up on the furniture for good manners.

• Misunderstanding Argentinian nicknames: In Argentina, don't be taken aback if locals use nicknames based on physical traits like 'negro' for those with dark features or 'gordo/a' and 'flaco/a' for endearing references to body size; however, be aware that other derogatory terms exist and these phrases can be used to insult. 

 

Need some Argentinian flair to help you get around? These words and phrases are a great way to start interacting with locals.

 

Language Love: Argentinian Spanish To Help With Your Trip

 

• Good morning: Buenos días

• Good evening: Buenas tardes

• How are you? Cómo esta?

• Fine, thank you, and you?: Muy bien, gracias, y usted?

• I understand: Entiendo

• I don't understand: No entiendo

• Sorry: Perdón

• Goodbye: Adios

• Welcome: Bienvenido/a

• Thank you (very much): Muchas gracias

• Excuse me: Discúlpame

• My name is…:Me llamo...

• No thank you: No gracias

• Yes: Sí

• No: No

• You're welcome: De nada

• How much is it?: ¿Cuánto es?

• One to 10: Un, dos, tres, cuatro, cinco, seis, siete, ocho, nueve, diez

• One Hundred: Ciento

• What can you recommend?: ¿Qué recomienda?

• Have a nice day: Buen día

 

Travel Tip: Use these phrases at the Top 5 Shopping Spots in Buenos Aires!

 

 

Safety Tips for Traveling In Argentina: A Practical Guide for Tourists

 

So is it safe to travel to Argentina? Well, Argentina is ranked 54th on the Global Peace Index, which is safer than countries like France (67th), Thailand (92nd) and the US (131st).

 

If you’re worried, though, here are some safety tips when visiting Argentina: 

 

• Be cautious of pickpocketing and petty crime in San Telmo and La Boca and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.

• Retiro Train Station is a known pickpocketing hotspot, so exercise caution and avoid the area at night.

• Beware of pickpocketing and bag-snatching in Mendoza, especially in crowded places.

• Pickpocketing is a concern in Córdoba, and stick to well-lit areas during nightlife, avoid carrying large amounts of cash and consider going out in a group.

• Rosario is a known drug trafficking city, so exercise caution.

• Beware of motochorros, involving individuals on motorbikes snatching bags.

• Watch for distractions while using ATMs; be cautious of card or cash theft attempts.

• Taxis are generally safe, but some drivers may take longer routes to increase fares or may adjust meters, so keep watch.

• Like many places in the world, beware of scams involving someone spraying substances on clothes, offering to clean it, and then robbing you.

Conclusion

It’s easy to see why so many people are returning to travel to Argentina. With colorful hills, dancing and a hospitable environment, what’s not to love?

 

Book your tango dancing lesson, city tour with an Argentina tour guide, and start building your itinerary to travel to this amazing destination.