Argentina isn't just big—it's the eighth-largest country in the world, stretching across 1.07 million square miles from subtropical jungles to Antarctic ice. It’s where you’ll find the tallest mountain in the Western Hemisphere (Aconcagua, 22,837 feet) and the lowest point in South America (Laguna del Carbón, 344 feet below sea level). You can drive for days, dance until morning, or stand on the coast watching whales pass by. Here are some of the activities to do in Argentina while you're here.
Trekking on Perito Moreno Glacier feels a bit surreal at first—crunching across the ice, surrounded by deep blue crevasses and meltwater pools. The glacier itself sits inside Los Glaciares National Park, not far from El Calafate in southern Patagonia.
At 97 square miles, it’s one of the few glaciers in the world still slowly advancing. You’ll often hear loud cracks as huge chunks break off and crash into Lake Argentino below.
There are a couple of ways to get out on the ice. The mini-trek gives you about 90 minutes walking with crampons, while the Big Ice version lasts closer to 3.5 hours. Both are guided and include the gear you need. As long as you’re in decent shape and fall within the age range (10 to 65), it’s manageable. This is one of the best hikes in Argentina.
If you're not up for walking on ice, you can still get a great view from the raised boardwalks across from the glacier’s face. Some tours end with a small glass of whiskey poured over glacier ice.
Fly into El Calafate from Buenos Aires (it’s about a 3-hour flight). From there, it’s around a 90-minute drive to the glacier. Many people join a guided tour with transport included. Most hotels in El Calafate can also help you book a trek or shuttle.
The best weather falls between November and March, when the days are longer and the chance of rain is lower. February usually brings fewer crowds than December and January but still has warm, comfortable temperatures—usually around 50–60°F (10–16°C).
The Yungas is a narrow strip of forest that clings to the eastern side of the Andes, running through Salta and Jujuy. What makes this area so interesting is the fast change in elevation—from lowland jungle to mountain forest in just a few miles. That shift creates a mix of ecosystems and supports a huge range of plants and animals, including howler monkeys, toucans, and a variety of orchids and ferns you won’t see elsewhere.
Calilegua National Park is the most accessible part of the Yungas. There are several trails that pass through different types of forest, often within the same hike.
A local guide can add depth to the experience by pointing out plants traditionally used for medicine and food. The climate here is cooler than in most rainforests, so hiking is more comfortable—even in warmer months. You could easily create a week-long Argentina itinerary just in this one area.
Fly from Buenos Aires to either Salta or Jujuy (about 2 hours), then drive 2–3 hours to the park. Buses run regularly to Libertador General San Martín, the closest town to Calilegua. There are also guided day trips and overnight tours from Salta.
Late September through November works well—spring brings fresh blooms, and migratory birds start arriving. Mornings are usually misty, with the fog lifting by mid-morning, which makes for some great views.
Short rain showers are common in October, but they don’t last long and tend to bring out more animal activity.
Magellanic penguins marching on Magdelena Island © Shutterstock
Punta Tombo is one of the best places to see Magellanic penguins up close. Each year, over half a million of them come to this stretch of coastline in Chubut Province to nest. You’ll walk along raised boardwalks through the colony, where penguins wander freely and often waddle right past you.
They nest under low bushes, feed their chicks, and perform courtship rituals just feet away. These penguins stand about 2 feet tall, with distinctive black and white markings and pink patches around their eyes. Seeing them eye to eye is one of the best things to do in Argentina.
They’re built for this dry, windy landscape, which is pretty different from the icy places most people associate with penguins. You might also catch sight of guanacos, maras (Patagonian hares), and seabirds along the way.
If you're staying in Buenos Aires, the easiest way to get there is to fly to Trelew (just under 2 hours), then drive about 70 miles (110 km) south along Provincial Route 1. Most people base themselves in Puerto Madryn or Trelew and either rent a car or join a day tour with a local guide.
Mid-October through early December is when penguins are nesting and the colony is busiest. If you want to see chicks, aim for late December through February. Mornings are usually best—gates open at 8 AM and penguins tend to be more active before it gets hot.
Capybara say hello in the Ibera Wetlands © Shutterstock
The Iberá Wetlands cover more than 3.2 million acres in Corrientes Province and are home to a wide range of wildlife, including caimans, capybaras, marsh deer, and over 380 bird species. Thanks to ongoing conservation work, animals like giant anteaters and jaguars have been successfully reintroduced here.
You’ll explore the wetlands by small boats or canoes that move quietly through the waterways. The open landscape makes it easier to spot animals, and local guides are generally good at pointing things out without disturbing the environment. Many trips also include horseback rides through the surrounding grasslands.
Most travelers fly from Buenos Aires to either Posadas or Corrientes (around 1.5 hours), then drive 2–3 hours to Colonia Carlos Pellegrini or Ituzaingó. Many lodges can arrange transfers if you reach out in advance. If you’re coming by bus, you can go overnight to Mercedes and take a connecting transfer to the wetlands. If you're visiting during the rainy season, a four-wheel drive is a safer bet.
Late April to early June is a good time to go, when water levels are stable and travel is easier. Morning boat trips between 6–9 AM are great for bird activity, while late afternoon (around 4–7 PM) tends to be better for seeing mammals like capybaras and caimans. Winter full moons (June through August) make for especially interesting night outings.
If you're traveling through Jujuy Province, the markets in Purmamarca and Humahuaca are worth a stop. These are working, local markets where you’ll see textiles with traditional Andean patterns, alpaca sweaters, handmade ceramics, and musical instruments like charangos and quenas. A lot of the vendors are indigenous artisans selling crafts made with techniques passed down through generations.
In Purmamarca, the market sits at the base of the Hill of Seven Colors, so the scenery alone is reason enough to go. Humahuaca’s market is surrounded by striking desert mountains. While you browse, you can grab some llama empanadas or try a bowl of quinoa soup—local dishes you won’t easily find elsewhere.
The easiest way to reach both towns is from San Salvador de Jujuy via public bus on Route 9. If you’re coming from Salta, day tours run regularly (about 3 hours one way). Renting a car gives you more flexibility and makes it easy to hit both in a single trip. If you’re based in Tilcara, local minibuses run often and make getting around pretty simple.
Sundays are the best time to go—especially early in the morning. Try to get to Purmamarca before 9 AM to avoid the tour crowds. In Humahuaca, the market really comes to life during Carnival (February–March). Around Easter, both towns have seasonal foods and religious crafts connected to Holy Week traditions.
These are two of the most interesting archaeological sites in northern Argentina. The Quilmes ruins, in Tucumán Province, are the remains of a fortified Diaguita village that held out against Spanish colonization until 1667. The Tilcara ruins, or Pucará, are just outside Tilcara and sit on a hilltop that was used as a strategic stronghold for over a thousand years.
Both sites have stone structures that give a real sense of what life might’ve been like back then. You’ll also see terraces used for farming—proof of how advanced these communities were. There are small museums at each site that display pottery, tools, and other everyday objects found during excavations.
You can get to Quilmes by bus from Cafayate or Tafí del Valle. For Tilcara’s ruins, it’s a short uphill walk—around 15 minutes—from the center of Tilcara. Buses from Salta and San Salvador de Jujuy stop regularly in town.
Try to visit Quilmes in the early morning (around 8–10 AM) to avoid the heat. At Tilcara, late afternoon (between 4–6 PM) tends to be cooler and has nice lighting too. Around the summer solstice (December 21), Tilcara hosts ceremonies tied to indigenous traditions. Skip both sites during heavy rain (usually January to February), when the trails can get slippery and harder to navigate.
The Argentine side of Iguazu Falls © Shutterstock
This is the wettest way to experience Iguazú Falls—and one of the most direct. The “Aventura Náutica” boat ride takes you right into the mist at the base of the falls. You’ll board a high-powered inflatable and ride along the lower Iguazú River, getting close enough to feel the spray and hear the roar of water crashing down from nearly 260 feet (80 meters) above.
The trip starts deep in the jungle within Iguazú National Park. After navigating through some light rapids, the boat makes its way to several of the individual falls, out of the total 275 that make up the whole system. Guides know the route well and steer you into areas that you simply can’t access on foot—like behind the water curtain or right up to smaller cascades. Expect to get soaked.
It’s not a great choice for very young kids or anyone who has trouble with steps or slippery walkways, but for most people, it’s a fun and intense way to experience the power of the falls up close. Just be sure to stash your electronics in dry bags.
Boats depart from Puerto Macuco dock, located inside the Argentine side of the park. After entering, take the free eco-train to Cataratas Station, then walk downhill about 20 minutes through the forest to the dock. During peak travel months, it’s a good idea to book ahead.
For the best light and chance of rainbows, go between 10 AM and 2 PM. Water levels rise between December and March, making the falls more dramatic—but boats may pause service if conditions get too rough. The first morning departure (usually around 9:30 AM) tends to be quieter.
Palermo is a great neighborhood to take a food walking tour © Shutterstock
A guided food tour through Palermo is a good way to try the best food in Buenos Aires without needing to plan every stop yourself.
You’ll hit around 5 to 7 stops in this trendy neighborhood, tasting everything from traditional grilled meats to more modern, creative takes on Argentine dishes. You’ll likely try dishes like grilled provoleta, empanadas, steak, Malbec, and probably something sweet with dulce de leche at the end.
Along the way, you’ll hear how the area evolved from old-money mansions to one of the city’s most artsy, laid-back neighborhoods. Many tours include wine pairings and give you a look behind the scenes, with some even including chats with chefs or restaurant owners.
The pace is relaxed, and the walking between stops gives you a chance to check out Palermo’s murals, cobblestone streets, and architecture.
Most tours start in either Palermo Soho or Palermo Hollywood. If you’re coming from the city center, take the D Line on the subway to Plaza Italia or Palermo station, then walk about 10–15 minutes. Taxi apps work well too.
The sweet spot is around 7 PM—Argentines eat late, so this gets you into the local rhythm without being too early. Wednesday to Friday is ideal if you want a lively scene without the full weekend crowds. Try to book one early in your trip so you can get food tips to use the rest of your stay.
Quebrada de las Conchas in Salta is a great place to camp © Shutterstock
Camping in Quebrada de las Conchas (Shell Ravine) is a great way to experience one of northern Argentina’s most unique landscapes up close. This 20-mile (32km) stretch of canyon in Salta Province is known for its bold red rock formations shaped by wind and water over millions of years. You’ll be setting up your tent beneath wide-open skies, surrounded by cliffs, natural stone arches, and formations like the Amphitheater and Devil’s Throat.
The ravine is part of the Calchaquí Valleys and runs along Route 68 between Salta and Cafayate. Compared to more crowded destinations, camping here gives you a chance to slow down and take in the changing light on the rocks—from deep red at sunrise to golden hues by sunset.
There are a few trails to explore, and some are short enough for a casual hike, while others take you deeper into the canyon’s folds. It’s especially memorable if you have an interest in geology.
Fly into Salta City and rent a car for the 2-hour drive south along Route 68 toward Cafayate—it’s straightforward and scenic. If driving’s not your thing, public buses run regularly from Salta’s main terminal and stop along the route through the ravine. Day trips are common, but if you’re camping, it’s better to go on your own to have time to enjoy the area without being rushed.
April to June is a good window—temperatures are mild, usually between 60–75°F (15–25°C), there’s not much rain, and it’s less crowded than during the summer months. If you’re up for early mornings, sunrise light between 6 and 8AM is pretty special. For stargazing, plan your trip around a new moon—there’s no light pollution out here, so the night sky really opens up.
Going to a peña in Salta is one of the best ways to experience northern Argentina’s folk music. These are casual gatherings where musicians play traditional northern Argentine folk music—styles like chacarera, zamba, and carnavalito—while people eat, drink, and sometimes dance. It’s not a formal show, more like a community hangout where the music is just part of the atmosphere.
Most peñas in Salta City are run by families who’ve been playing together for years. You’ll hear live music on traditional instruments like the bombo legüero drum, charango, and quena flute. Food is usually simple and regional— you can usually expect empanadas salteñas and locro (a hearty stew).
Don’t be surprised if someone hands you a cup of mate or invites you to dance. These nights tend to be kid friendly but go late into the night (see our guide to Argentina with kids).
You’ll find most peñas around the city’s historic center, especially along Balcarce Street. If you’re staying downtown, you can likely walk.
For something a bit more local, try asking around for places in neighborhoods like Barrio Norte or Villa Soledad—these can be a little harder to find but often feel more relaxed and communal. Hotel staff or locals can usually give good recommendations based on what’s happening that week.
Friday and Saturday nights tend to be the most active, with more people and better musicians. Don’t worry about being early—things usually get going after 10:30 PM, with music starting around 11 and building from there.
If you’re in town during July’s Pachamama celebrations or the February carnival season, expect bigger crowds and more well-known performers. During those times, it’s smart to book ahead since tables fill up fast.
At the base of Copahue Volcano in Neuquén Province, Termas de Copahue is known for its therapeutic hot springs. The mineral-rich waters—packed with sulfur, iron, and natural antibiotics—feed nine distinct pools, each with its own consistency and use. You’ll find milky sulfur baths, iron-heavy red pools, and thick mud areas where people slather on volcanic clay to help with skin issues or joint pain.
The setting is beautiful—around 6,500 feet (2,000 meters) above sea level, surrounded by Araucaria trees and rugged Andean mountains.
This isn’t your typical soak-and-relax experience—the Copahue Provincial Thermal Center has a more medical approach, with professionals on hand if you’re following a treatment plan. The Pehuenche people have used these waters for generations, and it’s still a place people visit with real intent to heal or reset.
The easiest way to get there is by flying into Neuquén City and then taking a bus for about five hours to the town of Caviahue. From there, a shuttle runs the last 5 miles (8 km) up to Copahue during the thermal season. You can also rent a car in Neuquén for the 225-mile (360 km) drive.
Just know that the final stretch gets a little rough—you’ll want a car with decent clearance.
The season runs from mid-December to early April. Outside of that window, the area is snowed in and closed. Most people come for at least a week to get the full benefit. Late January is a good time to go if you want higher mineral levels in the water—volcanic activity tends to increase a bit then.
Every weekend from January through March, Gualeguaychú turns into a full-blown Carnaval town. Located in Entre Ríos Province, the town puts on huge parades with floats, dancers, drummers, and glittering costumes—all part of the yearly competition between local carnival groups (called comparsas).
These aren’t hired performers—families and neighbors spend months preparing everything from the music to the feathered headpieces.
The parade takes place in a purpose-built 1,600-foot (500-meter) arena known as the corsódromo, with stadium-style seating and plenty of energy pulsing through the crowd. After the parade, parties spill out onto the riverbanks and go late into the night.
From Buenos Aires, there are regular buses from Retiro station that take around three hours. Renting a car is another good option, especially if you want to stop at towns along Route 14. If you’re heading there on a weekend, make sure to book tickets and transport in advance—they fill up fast.
The second and third weekends of February usually hit the sweet spot. The performances are at their best by then, and the energy in town ramps up. Get tickets for the central section of the corsódromo if you want the clearest view of the top performances. Arrive by 5 PM to enjoy the atmosphere before the parade starts around 9 PM.
Tango was born from Argentina © Shutterstock
If you’re curious about tango, San Telmo is a great place to start. This is where the dance has real roots—born out of working-class neighborhoods in the late 1800s, shaped by African and European influences, and still very much alive in local culture today.
The neighborhood itself feels like it’s part of the experience. The cobblestone streets, old buildings, and courtyards make it easy to picture dancers from decades ago learning the same steps. Many studios are inside historic homes or repurposed warehouses with high ceilings and worn-in floors that have seen their share of tango shoes.
There’s something for every level. Beginners are welcome at most classes, and if you already know your way around a dance floor, there are milongas that lean more advanced.
Some well-known places include La Catedral and DNI Tango, both laid-back and social. For late-night dancing with a local crowd, La Viruta and Salon Canning are worth checking out.
You can take Subte Line C to either San Juan or Independencia. Both stations are within walking distance of the main tango venues. If you're heading out late or leaving a milonga after midnight, ride-share apps are usually safer and easier than the bus or subway.
Sunday evenings are lively, especially after the antique market wraps up. If you want to avoid the tourist crowd, classes from Tuesday to Thursday are usually more relaxed and local. In August, the International Tango Festival brings in guest instructors and extra workshops. Try to get to class 15–20 minutes early so you have time to stretch and get a feel for the room.
Puerta cerrada restaurants are one of Buenos Aires’ best low-key experiences. These are private homes that double as supper clubs—chefs open up their kitchens a few nights a week, serve a set menu to a small group of guests, and create a kind of dinner party vibe that’s hard to find anywhere else.
What makes these dinners interesting is the format. You’re sitting around a table with strangers (or maybe soon-to-be friends), eating food that often plays with Argentine traditions—maybe a twist on empanadas, local vegetables done in unexpected ways, or homemade desserts. Wines are usually from small producers and picked to match the menu.
It’s a nice change of pace if you’re looking for a low-key night with real conversation and a slower dining experience. Popular places include Casa SaltShaker in Recoleta and Casa Coupage in Palermo, but there are plenty of smaller, word-of-mouth setups that are just as memorable. For more memorable cuisine, see our guide to the best food in Buenos Aires.
Booking a puerta cerrada restaurant usually happens online—most chefs take reservations through their websites, Instagram, or by email. Since these dinners are private and have limited seats, you’ll need to reserve in advance—ideally a week or two ahead. Some places may ask for a deposit or prepayment to confirm your spot.
Thursday through Saturday nights tend to have the most going on. Try to book at least two weeks in advance, especially during the busy season from October to March. These are timed events, so make sure you arrive exactly on schedule. If you're into wine, going in March or April can be a nice touch—some hosts highlight new bottles from the latest harvests in Mendoza or Salta.
Resident of the Beagle Channel © Shutterstock
Kayaking in the Beagle Channel is one of the more hands-on ways to experience the wild edges of southern Patagonia. The channel’s name comes from the HMS Beagle—the ship that carried Darwin past these very waters.
You’ll likely pass colonies of sea lions lounging on rocks, penguins waddling along the shoreline, and if you’re lucky, dolphins darting through the waves beside your kayak. Birdwatchers will have plenty to see too, with seabirds circling overhead and nesting on the nearby islets.
You don’t need experience to join a guided trip—just a basic level of fitness. Outfits like Canal Fun and Ushuaia Outdoors run half-day and full-day trips, and they’ll sort out all the gear and safety prep. Some excursions even include landing on remote islands that aren’t accessible by boat. This is one of the best things to do in Patagonia.
Tours usually leave from the main port or beaches like Playa Larga. To get there, fly into Malvinas Argentinas International Airport (around 3.5 hours from Buenos Aires). If you’ve booked a tour, they’ll usually handle transport to the launch point. Otherwise, local bus #3 gets you to Playa Larga, or you can take a taxi if you're starting farther out to get to Ushuaia.
Mid-November through March is the best window, when the weather is relatively stable and the days are long—up to 17 hours of light during peak summer. Mornings tend to be calmer and better for wildlife sightings
High in the Andes, Laguna Brava is a salt lake surrounded by red-and-white flats and rugged mountains. It sits at about 13,800 feet (4,200 meters) and is one of the few places where you can see three species of flamingos—Andean, Chilean, and James'—feeding in one place. The lake’s unusual minerals support tiny organisms that the birds feed on, which is what gives them their pink coloring.
During the right season, there can be thousands of flamingos moving across the water. You might also see wild vicuñas grazing nearby, or condors gliding overhead. It’s a bit of a trek to get there, but totally worth it.
Because of the altitude and the terrain, it’s not something you just drive to on your own. Local guides based in Villa Unión or Vinchina run 4WD trips out to the lake, usually as part of a full-day excursion.
The jumping-off point is Villa Unión. First, fly into La Rioja City. From there, it’s about a 3.5-hour bus ride or drive to Villa Unión. Once you’re there, tour operators take you up through mountain passes along Route 76 and Provincial Route 7. The road’s unpaved and climbs quickly, so it’s important to acclimate before heading out.
Late October to early December is your best bet if you want to see flamingos in large numbers. It’s also a good idea to spend a day or two in Villa Unión before the trip to adjust to the elevation.
San Juan Province has some of the clearest night skies you'll find anywhere, especially around Barreal Valley and El Leoncito National Park. This region is known for its high altitude, dry climate, and minimal light pollution. That’s why observatories like CASLEO (El Leoncito Astronomical Complex) were built here.
On a clear night, you can see the Milky Way without needing any special gear. If you join a guided tour, you'll likely use a telescope and learn about constellations only visible from the southern hemisphere. It’s especially interesting during meteor showers like the Geminids in December.
You can fly into San Juan’s Domingo Faustino Sarmiento Airport from Buenos Aires in about two hours. There's also a bus from Mendoza that takes around three hours. From San Juan city, it's a 2.5-hour drive to El Leoncito. Some tour companies include transport, or you can rent a car.
The clearest skies are usually between April and September, when the air is dry and the nights are long. July and August tend to be the best months for deep-space viewing. Aim for a new moon if you want the best visibility, and don’t forget warm layers—even in summer, nights can get cold.
Tucumán is proud of its empanadas—and for good reason. The local style uses a thin dough and a filling that’s usually a mix of chopped beef, potatoes, egg, olives, and spices like cumin and paprika. Baking them in clay ovens adds a slightly smoky edge you don’t get elsewhere.
The annual National Empanada Festival in Famaillá (each September) brings together the region’s best cooks for a friendly competition. Every family has their own take, so it’s worth trying a few to get a feel for the subtle differences.
You’ll find them everywhere—from tiny neighborhood restaurants to street carts.
Fly from Buenos Aires to Benjamín Matienzo International Airport (about two hours), or catch a bus from Córdoba (around 8 hours) or Salta (about 4 hours). Within Tucumán city, buses, taxis, and walking will get you where you need to go. Many of the best empanada places are in the historic center, and there are food tours if you want to dig in a little deeper.
September is great if you want to catch the festival, but you’ll find good empanadas any time of year. Sundays are big for family meals, so restaurants are usually busy then. Go early (before 1pm) or later in the evening (after 8pm) if you want to avoid long lines.
If you're looking for a day hike near Bariloche, the trail to Refugio Frey is a great option. It’s about 12.5 miles (20km) round-trip and takes you through some pretty varied terrain inside Nahuel Huapi National Park. You’ll start in the forest, pass through open meadows, and eventually climb into a rocky alpine cirque where the refugio sits next to a small glacial lake, surrounded by granite peaks.
The hike has a steady incline but doesn’t require technical gear, so it’s manageable for anyone with a decent fitness level. The refugio itself is popular with climbers, but hikers come too—for the scenery, the fresh air, and sometimes a quick swim in the lake if the weather’s warm enough.
There’s food at the hut, and you can stay overnight if you want to split the hike or catch sunset and stars (see our guide to accommodation in Argentina). It’s also a good jumping-off point if you're planning longer treks or climbs.
From Bariloche, take bus #55 to the base of the Catedral ski resort—it’s about a 30-minute ride. The trailhead starts near the chairlifts. You’ll need to register at the park entrance, but the route is clearly marked and easy to follow. In the summer, the chairlift runs and you can cut some distance if you're short on time or just want to save your energy for the upper part of the trail.
Mid-December to early March tends to have the most stable weather, and the refugio is usually fully open during this time. Try to start early—around 8 or 9am—so you have time to enjoy the lake and still get back down before dark. And definitely check the weather forecast before heading out—conditions can change quickly, even in summer.
Biking through the Maipú wine region is one of the more relaxed ways to explore Mendoza’s wine country. Instead of being stuck in a car, you’re out in the open—pedaling through rows of vines, catching the scent of fermenting grapes, and feeling the dry heat that gives these wines their punch.
The roads are mostly flat, so it’s doable even if you’re not a regular cyclist. Routes usually cover anywhere from 6 to 18 miles (10–30km) and link several bodegas along the way. Most people end up stopping at three to five wineries for tastings. Some places also walk you through how they grow and process grapes in this high-altitude desert—Malbecs, especially, get their boldness from the sun and soil here.
From central Mendoza, catch bus #10 to Maipú—it takes around 30 minutes and drops you near a bunch of bike rental shops. These places usually have maps and local advice about which bodegas are best for cyclists. You can also book a guided tour that includes hotel pickup, which is convenient if you’d rather not figure out the route yourself.
Harvest runs from February to April, and it's the liveliest time at the wineries—you’ll see grapes being picked and a lot going on behind the scenes. If you’re biking, start early—around 9 or 10am—to avoid the heat, especially between December and February.
written by
Dre Roelandt
updated 25.05.2025
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