Argentina travel tips for first-timers: What to know

Argentina is huge and unpredictable – and that’s part of the draw. You’ll deal with long distances, late meals, and weather that changes fast. Buenos Aires is where most trips start: busy, confident, and not short on attitude. Don’t just stay in the capital. Head north for red-rock canyons and roadside empanadas, west for wine country, and south if you want to hike, freeze, or see a glacier break apart. Iguazú Falls is worth the trip, but so is a night bus to somewhere you’ve never heard of. To help you plan smart, eat well, and avoid rookie mistakes, these Argentina travel tips will point you in the right direction.

When is the best time to visit Argentina?

The best time to visit Argentina depends entirely on where you're headed. This is a country of extremes – tropical heat in the north, snow and glaciers in the south, and everything else in between. From the roaring Iguazú Falls to the windswept trails of Patagonia, Argentina’s seasons don’t follow a single script. Here’s what you need to know.

• Summer (December to February) is great for Patagonia. It’s warm enough to hike without freezing, most routes are open, and the days are long. But it’s also peak season, so expect crowds and higher prices in popular spots like El Chaltén and Bariloche. Northern Argentina gets seriously hot – think 104°F (40°C) in places like Salta – while Buenos Aires can feel sticky and slow.
• Autumn and spring (March to May, September to November) are ideal for city breaks and the wine country. Mendoza’s vineyards glow during the harvest in March, and Buenos Aires is cooler, calmer, and easier to enjoy on foot. These shoulder seasons also work well for the north – still warm, but less intense.
• Winter (June to August) is the low season for most of the country but high time for skiing in the Andes. Patagonia gets cold and many routes shut down, but the north stays dry and mild – a smart choice if you want to skip the crowds.

What to pack: Dress for variety. Even in summer, Patagonia can drop below freezing. Bring layers, good hiking boots, sunscreen that can handle mountain glare, and a windproof jacket. If you’re heading to Buenos Aires, locals dress sharp – you’ll stand out in zip-off trousers.

Is Argentina expensive?

Argentina can be surprisingly affordable – if you know how to work the system. Thanks to a complex economy and multiple exchange rates, costs vary wildly depending on how you pay. If you’re smart about currency, eat local, and skip internal flights when possible, you can stretch your budget a long way.

Some of the best things to do in Argentina – like Perito Moreno Glacier tours or Patagonian hikes – aren’t cheap. Entry to national parks ranges from $10-25 (€9-23), and guided excursions can easily cost over $100 (€92), especially in remote areas. Domestic flights are convenient but pricey if you book last minute.

• On a tight budget (around $40-60/€37-55 per day), you can stay in dorms, travel by long-distance bus, and fill up on empanadas and menú del día lunches. Local bakeries and markets are your best friends.
• With a mid-range budget ($80-120/€75-110 per day), you’re looking at private rooms in B&Bs, steak dinners, and guided day trips – maybe a wine tasting in Mendoza or a glacier walk in El Calafate.

If you’ve got more to spend, Argentina has serious luxury – boutique hotels in the Andes, private estancias, and even first-class buses with full beds. And depending on the exchange rate you get, it might still feel like a bargain.

Is Argentina safe for travelers?

Petty theft is the most common issue in cities like Buenos Aires, Córdoba, and Rosario. Thieves target crowded buses, train stations, and tourist hotspots like San Telmo and La Boca. Violent crime is rare in areas most travelers visit, but some neighborhoods are best avoided after dark.

Solo travelers, including women, usually get by just fine. In remote regions, people are generally helpful, though it's smart to keep a low profile and avoid flashing valuables.

To stay safe use these Argentina travel tips:

• Keep your bag zipped and worn across your body in busy areas.
• Don’t walk around with your phone out – snatch-and-run thefts are common.
• Stick to well-lit streets at night and avoid empty plazas or parks.
• Use official taxis or apps like Cabify and Uber in big cities.
• Ask your accommodation which areas to avoid – local tips are best.

Protests and disruptions

Political protests are frequent in Argentina, especially in Buenos Aires. Most are peaceful, but they can block streets and public transport with little warning. They’re rarely violent, but they can grind the city to a halt.

What to do:

Stay updated through local news or Twitter/X, keep your schedule flexible, and avoid large gatherings if tensions feel high.

Nature and adventure safety

Patagonia is stunning but remote. Cell signal can be spotty, and the weather changes fast. Hike with a map, tell someone your plans, and don’t take on serious treks without proper gear or experience.

If you're visiting high-altitude spots like the Puna de Atacama, altitude sickness is a risk – rest, hydrate, and take it slow.

Laws, customs, and respect

Argentines are generally laid-back, but there are a few things to keep in mind.

• Drugs are illegal and can lead to serious trouble, even in small amounts.
• LGBTQ+ travelers are widely accepted – Buenos Aires, especially, is very inclusive.
• Don’t expect things to run on time. Delays are common – just roll with it.
• A little Spanish helps a lot. English isn’t spoken everywhere.

Do you need a visa for Argentina?

In most cases, no – Argentina keeps things relatively hassle-free for tourists from many countries. That said, rules change, and you don’t want a surprise at border control. Here's what to know before you go.

Visa-free entry for most travelers

Citizens of the US, UK, EU countries, Canada, Australia, and several others can enter Argentina visa-free for up to 90 days for tourism. Just bring a passport valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date. You might be asked for proof of onward travel – it’s not common, but it happens.

Planning to stay longer?

If you want to stay beyond the 90 days, you have a couple of options:

• Extension: You can apply for a 90-day extension once you're in the country, usually at an immigration office. It costs around ARS 6,000 (check current rates).
• Border run: Some travelers leave and re-enter via nearby countries like Uruguay or Chile, but don’t count on unlimited re-entries. Immigration officers can deny entry if it looks like you’re gaming the system.

If your trip involves work, study, or volunteering, you’ll need to apply for the appropriate visa in advance, and these processes take time.

Entry process and border tips

You’ll get a stamp on arrival with your approved number of days, usually 90. Always check the date written in your passport. If it’s wrong or unclear, ask for clarification on the spot.

Argentina doesn’t usually require arrival cards or visa paperwork at the airport. Just show your documents and go – but have accommodation and flight details handy in case you're asked.

How to stay healthy while traveling in Argentina?

Argentina is generally an easy place to stay healthy – good tap water, solid medical care in cities, and fewer tropical diseases than many nearby countries. Still, it’s a land of extremes: Patagonia’s icy winds, the north’s blistering heat, and long-distance travel that can wear you down. Most health issues come from not preparing properly, not from major risks. The right Argentina travel health tips – from knowing what to pack to understanding altitude and climate shifts – can make all the difference.

Medical care and pharmacies

Big cities like Buenos Aires, Mendoza, and Córdoba have reliable hospitals and private clinics, many with English-speaking staff. Rural areas and remote regions like Patagonia or the Puna have more limited facilities, so travel insurance that covers evacuation is a smart move.

Pharmacies are easy to find, open long hours, and stock most common medications over the counter. But don’t assume the pharmacist speaks English – know your meds by their generic names. Bring any prescriptions you need, plus extras for motion sickness, stomach issues, and allergies (especially if you're heading to dusty or high-altitude areas).

Vaccinations and health prep

No vaccines are required for entry into Argentina, and for most travelers, routine vaccinations (like tetanus and hepatitis A) are enough. You don’t need yellow fever unless you’re coming from an affected country or planning to cross into jungle areas near Brazil or Paraguay.

• Tetanus-diphtheria: Always a good idea if you’re hiking or biking.
• Hepatitis A: For food safety, especially if you're eating at local and informal restaurants.
• Yellow fever: Only if you're entering the far northeast (Misiones, near Iguazú) and plan to continue into Brazil.
• Rabies: Optional – useful if you’ll be spending time with animals or going very remote.

Food, water, and altitude

Tap water is safe to drink in cities and most towns – no need to buy bottled unless you're in very rural areas. That said, long-distance bus travel and sudden climate changes can mess with your digestion, so pack meds just in case.

Argentina’s food is meat-heavy and usually safe – just avoid undercooked meats at sketchy parrillas, and be cautious with unwashed produce from markets. Street food isn’t as common as in other countries, but if you do try it, stick to busy vendors.

Altitude sickness isn’t a huge issue in most of the country, but if you're heading to the northwest (like Salta, Jujuy, or the Puna), expect altitudes above 3,000m (9,800 ft). Give yourself time to adjust and stay hydrated.

Weather, insects, and natural hazards

• Sunburn: High UV in the Andes and Patagonia – even in cold weather. Use sunscreen.
• Heat: Northern Argentina can hit over 100°F (38°C) in summer. Drink water and take breaks.
• Cold: Patagonia and the Andes get bitterly cold, even in summer. Pack proper layers.
• Mosquitoes: Not a huge issue, but use repellent in warmer, wetter regions – especially in Misiones and Corrientes.
• Ticks and flies can be a nuisance in rural areas. Wear long sleeves and check for bites after hikes.

Cultural etiquette to know before visiting Argentina

Argentina is open, expressive, and proud – but it also has its own rhythms and social expectations. A little cultural awareness goes a long way, especially outside the big cities. These Argentina travel tips will help you avoid awkward moments and connect more easily with locals.

Dress: casual but put-together

Argentines dress well. Even in relaxed settings, people tend to avoid looking sloppy. In Buenos Aires, you’ll see plenty of denim and sneakers, but they’re usually paired with something sharp – a blazer, a button-down, or stylish accessories.

In rural areas or conservative towns, modest clothing is more common. Tank tops and short shorts might not offend, but they will make you stand out. If you're visiting churches or memorial sites, cover your shoulders and avoid short skirts or flip-flops.

In Patagonia or the Andes, practical layers rule – but even there, locals tend to take pride in looking neat.

Greetings and social norms: warm and personal

Argentines are touchy – in a good way. A single cheek kiss is the standard greeting, even between men and women who have just met. Among men, a firm handshake or a hug is common, depending on familiarity.

Always say “Hola”, “Buen día”, or “Buenas tardes” when entering shops or restaurants – it’s basic politeness.

Use Señor or Señora with last names in formal settings. If someone’s a doctor, lawyer, or professor, use their title – it’s a sign of respect and often expected.

Don’t be surprised if conversations get loud and passionate – it’s not an argument, it’s just how people talk.

Public behavior: expressive but respectful

In public, Argentines are animated but polite. People speak with their hands, joke easily, and don’t mind standing close. But shouting, being visibly drunk, or causing a scene won’t go over well.

Public displays of affection are normal – couples kissing in parks isn’t a big deal. But being overly rowdy in public, especially late at night, can get you the wrong kind of attention.

Politics and football are sacred topics. If you’re going to bring them up, tread carefully – especially when it comes to rival teams like Boca vs River, or anything related to the dictatorship years.

Eating customs: take your time

In Argentina, food is about connection. Meals are social events, not quick pit stops. Lunch is long, dinner is late (often after 9 pm), and sharing is key – especially at an asado (barbecue), where meat is passed around with pride.

• Wait for everyone to be served before eating.
• Say “Buen provecho” before digging in.
• Use a knife and fork for just about everything – even pizza or fries.

If you're invited to someone's home, bring a small gift – wine, sweets, or something from your country. Don’t arrive exactly on time. Being 10-15 minutes late is normal, and sometimes expected.

Religion and cultural traditions

Argentina is mostly Catholic, but not aggressively so. Churches are treated with respect – hats off inside, voices down. You’ll also see shrines to folk saints like Gauchito Gil along highways – locals take these seriously, so don’t treat them like photo ops.

Many festivals and holidays are deeply tied to Catholic or national identity – observe respectfully, and ask if it’s OK to take photos.

Tipping and small gestures

• In restaurants, tipping 10% is standard if service isn’t already included.
• Taxis don’t require a tip, but rounding up is appreciated.
• Hotel staff, guides, and porters rely on tips – even small amounts go a long way.

Is Argentina a good destination for families?

Yes – if your idea of a family trip includes glaciers, gauchos, waterfalls, and late-night ice cream, Argentina is a solid pick. Argentina with kids means dramatic landscapes, hands-on adventures, and cities that don’t shy away from little ones. It’s not built for strollers or strict routines, but if your family can roll with long distances and eat dinner at 9 pm, you’ll be just fine.

Where to go with kids in Argentina

• Buenos Aires is loud, busy, and surprisingly fun with kids. Parks like Bosques de Palermo offer paddle boats and playgrounds, while the Museo de los Niños is a hands-on hit. Don’t skip the weekend street markets – there’s music, dancing, and usually a churro stand nearby.
• Iguazú Falls is one of Argentina’s best family destinations. The boardwalks make it easy to navigate with kids, and the sheer scale of the waterfalls will blow their minds. Stick to the Argentine side for more trails and wildlife spotting.
• Mendoza may be wine country, but it’s also family-friendly, with horseback rides, river rafting (age-dependent), and vineyard picnics. Many wineries welcome kids with big gardens and casual vibes.
• Patagonia is a choose-your-own-adventure region. Around Bariloche, families can hike, swim in lakes, and ride cable cars up Cerro Otto. In El Calafate, kids can get up close to glaciers – even walk on one, with crampons and a guide (age 10+).
• Salta and the northwest are great for older kids – think llamas, salt flats, and crazy rock formations that look like another planet. Be mindful of altitude; go slow if you're heading up high.

Getting around and where to stay

Getting around Argentina means covering serious distances. Domestic flights save time and are best for crossing regions. In cities, taxis and apps like Uber or Cabify are easy. Buses work for budget trips, but aren’t ideal with little kids. Strollers are fine in cities, but for rough terrain, bring a carrier.

Argentina accommodations range from family apartments in the city to cabin-style stays in Patagonia. Many hotels will offer cribs, extra beds, or adjoining rooms – just ask in advance. Airbnbs can be a good bet for space and kitchens.

Food, supplies, and eating out with kids

Argentine food is family gold: empanadas, grilled meats, pasta, and pizza are everywhere. Even picky eaters will find something. Most restaurants are casual and used to kids – just be ready for late dinner hours, especially in Buenos Aires.

Supermarkets in cities stock everything from diapers to formula. In remote areas, supplies thin out – plan if your kids need something specific.

High chairs are available in many restaurants, but not guaranteed. There are no kids’ menus, but portions are big, and sharing is the norm.

Safety and health tips for families

Health care is good in cities, with clinics and pharmacies everywhere. English may be limited, so bring any must-have meds.

• Tap water is safe to drink in most of Argentina, especially in cities.
• Weather changes fast – layer up in Patagonia and always pack sunscreen.
• Bugs aren’t a big issue, but use repellent in the northeast, especially near Iguazú.
• Altitude sickness can be a problem in the far northwest. Go slow, stay hydrated, and watch how your kids respond.

What are the best places to visit in Argentina?

Argentina is more than tango and steak – it’s glaciers, waterfalls, deserts, and cities that don’t sleep. From the subtropical north to the windswept south, the country delivers variety on a massive scale. Here’s where to go and why these are the best places to visit in Argentina.

• Buenos Aires: Argentina’s buzzing capital is part Europe, part Latin America, and entirely its own thing. Wander San Telmo’s antiques markets, catch a tango show in La Boca, or grab late-night empanadas in Palermo. It’s chaotic, creative, and full of personality.
• Iguazú Falls: Straddling the border with Brazil, these massive waterfalls are a must. Explore walkways that bring you face to face with the spray, or take a boat under the falls (prepare to get soaked). Base yourself in Puerto Iguazú for easy access.
• Patagonia: It’s big, wild, and jaw-droppingly scenic. In the north, Bariloche has lakes, hiking trails, and chocolate shops. Head south to El Calafate for Perito Moreno Glacier and to El Chaltén for serious trekking in Fitz Roy country.
• Mendoza: Argentina’s wine capital, tucked at the foot of the Andes. Go for the Malbec, stay for the mountain views. Vineyards here are relaxed, family-friendly, and set up for tastings, bike rides, and long lunches.
• Salta and the northwest: Think red rock valleys, salt flats, cactus forests, and colonial towns. Salta is the gateway, but road trips to Cafayate and Humahuaca are where the region really shines. Culture and scenery collide here in the best way.
• The Pampas: This is gaucho country – wide-open plains, horseback riding, and working estancias (ranches). You can visit on a day trip from Buenos Aires or spend the night for a full-on rural escape.
• Ushuaia and Tierra del Fuego: The world’s southernmost city is a launchpad for Antarctic cruises and rugged hikes. You’ll find mountain trails, penguins, and that end-of-the-world feeling that makes the journey worth it.
• Rosario and Córdoba: Smaller than Buenos Aires but full of local life. Rosario’s riverfront is ideal for lazy walks and bike rides, while Córdoba blends student energy with colonial architecture and nearby sierras.
• Valdés Peninsula: Wildlife lovers, take note – this is one of the best spots in South America for marine life. Depending on the season, you can see whales, penguins, sea lions, and orcas, all within a short drive of Puerto Madryn.

How long to spend in Argentina?

Argentina looks tempting to rush through, but don’t be fooled – this country is massive. Long distances, internal flights, and unpredictable weather all slow things down. Whether you’re after glaciers, wine, waterfalls, or tango, how long you spend in Argentina will shape the trip entirely. The best advice? Don’t cram – pick a few regions and do them right.

Ask yourself:

• Are you sticking to a couple of regions or trying to cross the whole country?
• Are you up for internal flights or relying on long-distance buses?
• Are you here for natural wonders or cultural deep dives, or a bit of both?

Rough timing breakdown

• 1 week in Argentina – Focus on either Buenos Aires + one region. You could pair the capital with Iguazú Falls, Mendoza for wine, or a quick Patagonia stop like Bariloche. Don’t try to do it all.
• 10 days to 14 days in Argentina – The sweet spot. Combine Buenos Aires, Iguazú, and Patagonia or Mendoza. With smart planning (and a few flights), you can mix cities, nature, and downtime without burning out.
• 2-3 weeks – Now you’ve got range. Add Salta and the northwest, Valdés Peninsula for wildlife, or go deeper in Patagonia. This timeline lets you slow down and enjoy the scenery, not just snap photos of it.
• 1 month+ – If you’ve got the time, Argentina rewards the slow traveler. Think road trips through the Andes, hiking in the Lake District, horseback riding with gauchos, or lingering in wine country. You won’t “see it all” – no one does – but you’ll start to feel how the country fits together.

What’s the best way to plan a Argentina itinerary?

Planning a trip to Argentina isn’t about squeezing in every region – it’s about choosing the right mix of landscapes, pacing out the long travel days, and knowing when to fly and when to linger. The best Argentina itinerary isn’t the most packed – it’s the one that lets you catch your breath between glacier hikes, wine tastings, and city rambles. Think of it as a slow-build playlist, not a checklist.

Start with how long you’ve got

Argentina’s size demands smart choices. You can’t do it all, but you can do it well. Here’s how your timing shapes your route:

• Under a week – Stick to Buenos Aires plus one region. Pair the capital with Iguazú Falls, Mendoza, or Bariloche for contrast and variety.
• 7-10 days – A balanced trip. Do Buenos Aires + Iguazú + one other region (like Patagonia or Mendoza) if you’re flying. Don’t overpack it – Argentina rewards slow travel.
• 2 weeks – You’re in business. Mix culture and nature: Buenos Aires, Iguazú, Mendoza, and Patagonia, or Salta. Build in downtime and don’t skip internal flights – they’ll save you days.
• 3-4 weeks – The full circuit. Add El Chaltén for trekking, the Valdés Peninsula for wildlife, and road trips in the northwest. It’s enough time to feel each place instead of just seeing it.

Match your route to your travel style

There’s no one Argentina – pick your version.

Love cities and culture?

• Buenos Aires – Start here. Theater, tango, street art, late-night cafés.
• Córdoba – Student life, colonial architecture, and weekend escapes to the Sierras.
• Rosario – River walks, local flavor, and fewer tourists.

Chasing landscapes?

• Patagonia – Hike in Bariloche, trek in El Chaltén, watch glaciers calve in El Calafate.
• Iguazú Falls – Spectacular and family-friendly.
• Salta and Jujuy – Salt flats, red canyons, and dramatic mountain drives.

Into wine and food?

• Mendoza – Vineyards, steak, mountain views.
• Buenos Aires – Parrillas, pasta, and the best dulce de leche of your life.
• Northwest Argentina – Empanadas, Andean stews, and roadside surprises.

Want to chill?

• Tigre Delta – Slow boat rides and riverside cabins near Buenos Aires.
• Mendoza – Wineries are made for lounging.
• Lake District – Cabins, kayaking, and easy walks.

Getting around Argentina: plan this early

Argentina travel distances are no joke, so transport matters. Here’re Argentina travel tips to keep your itinerary smooth:

• Domestic flights are essential. Use them for long hauls – Buenos Aires to Patagonia, Mendoza to Salta, etc.
• Long-distance buses are excellent, but take time. Best for overnight routes or if you’re budget-focused.
• Local flights book up fast – especially in peak season (December-February, July). Reserve early.
• Taxis, Uber, and Cabify are cheap and reliable in cities.
• Driving is great in the Northwest or the Lake District – just watch for rough roads and wild weather.

How to slow travel in Argentina?

Argentina isn’t just a checklist of glaciers, steaks, and waterfalls. It’s a country built for slowing down – where lingering over mate in a leafy plaza or stumbling into a neighborhood asado can leave more of a mark than the top-ten sights. If you want to connect with the soul of Argentina, not just snap photos of it, take your time.

Start in Buenos Aires, but don’t treat it like a checklist. If you’re wondering how many days to spend in Buenos Aires, aim for at least three – enough to pick a neighborhood like San Telmo or Palermo and settle in. Walk instead of Ubering. Chat with the barista. Watch life unfold in a city that never rushes its coffee or its conversations. Sunday markets, plaza musicians, and late-night ice cream walks are all part of the rhythm.

Head to Mendoza and skip the back-to-back vineyard tours. Stay in a small guesthouse near the vines, bike to bodegas at your own pace, and actually talk to the winemakers. Linger over lunch with a view of the Andes and let the days stretch out.

In Patagonia, forget the whirlwind itineraries. Stay a few days in El Chaltén or Bariloche and give yourself time for slow hikes, lakeside reading, or just watching clouds drift over jagged peaks. Patagonia isn't just about epic trails – it's about stillness and space.

In the northwest, don’t blast through Salta and Jujuy on a fast road trip. Spend a night or two in villages like Cachi or Purmamarca. Wander adobe streets, eat humita fresh from the corn husk, and take in the landscapes at the pace they deserve.

The keys to slow travel in Argentina?

• Stay longer in fewer places. Quality beats quantity – and you’ll feel more connected.
• Travel overland when you can. Buses and road trips show you the vast in-between.
• Eat local and often. Go for parrillas, market stalls, and bakery stops – it’s how locals live.
• Say yes to small moments. Argentines are sociable, and real connection happens between the big sights.

How to handle money and payments in Argentina?

Argentina has its own financial quirks, and handling money here isn’t just about cards and cash – it’s about knowing how the system works. The official exchange rate doesn’t always match reality, and how you access your money can seriously affect your budget.

The currency is the Argentine peso (ARS), but locals often talk in dollars – and different exchange rates. The most favorable for visitors is the “dólar MEP” or “blue dollar”, which offers far better value than the official rate.

So, how do you pay smart? Bring US dollars in cash if you can and exchange them at reputable casas de cambio or withdraw pesos via Western Union, which usually gives close to the blue rate. Avoid airport kiosks and hotel exchanges – the rates are poor.

ATMs work, but are not ideal – they charge high fees and often have low withdrawal limits. Credit cards are widely accepted in cities, but many businesses prefer cash or offer discounts if you pay in pesos. In rural areas, small shops, taxis, and markets may be cash-only.

Tipping isn’t mandatory, but it’s common. In restaurants, round up or leave 10%. For hotel staff, a few hundred pesos is appreciated. Tour guides and drivers also appreciate a tip, especially if they’ve gone above and beyond.

What are the most common scams?

Argentina is generally safe and easygoing, but if you're new to the country – and especially to Buenos Aires – it's good to stay sharp. Most scams here are more about small-time trickery than serious threats. A little awareness goes a long way.

• Taxi scams: Classic move: the driver says the meter’s broken or tries to hand you fake bills as change. Always use radio taxis or apps like Cabify and Uber in the city. At airports and bus terminals, agree on the fare in advance or use an official taxi stand.
• Fake bills: Counterfeit money is a known issue, especially with 1,000 peso notes. Some scammers will swap your real bills during a change or a “confused” payment moment. Pay with small denominations and check your change carefully. Know what real notes look like – especially the watermark and security strip.
• Street “helpers”: Someone might offer to clean bird poop off your jacket, help with your map, or “warn” you about your bag being open. While you’re distracted, an accomplice lifts your wallet or phone. It’s a smooth operation – and easy to fall for. Stay calm, keep your stuff close, and don’t engage if it feels off.
• ATM skimming: Stick to ATMs inside banks or malls, and avoid sketchy machines on quiet streets. Cover the keypad when you type your PIN and check for card readers that look tampered with.
• Too-good-to-be-true deals: Whether it's a tour package, a tango show, or football tickets, avoid buying from random people on the street. Use licensed agencies or ask your hotel for a vetted contact.
• Counterfeit goods: That handmade leather bag or “designer” watch from a street stall? Probably fake. Markets are great for browsing, but for quality, stick to shops with actual storefronts and price tags.

How to travel responsibly and ethically in Argentina?

Argentina’s landscapes and culture leave a mark – but make sure it’s a good one. Traveling responsibly here means showing up with curiosity, respect, and an understanding of local rhythms. These Argentina travel tips will help you connect more deeply while keeping your impact positive.

• Dress the part, especially in cities: Argentines care about presentation. In Buenos Aires, people dress well even to run errands. You don’t need to pack fancy clothes, but ditch the zip-off trousers. In smaller towns or rural areas, keep it modest out of respect for local norms, especially during festivals or religious visits.
• Learn how to mate: Sharing mate (herbal tea) is an everyday ritual. If someone offers you a sip, say yes – it’s a gesture of friendship. Don’t stir the straw (bombilla), and return the cup without saying thank you – that signals you’re done. Say thanks at the end of the round.
• Support local producers: Skip mass-market souvenirs. Instead, buy from artisans in Salta, weaving collectives in the northwest, or independent shops in Patagonia. Look for handmade goods like leatherwork, ponchos, and ceramics. You’ll get better quality and keep your pesos in the community.
• Treat nature like it’s yours to protect: Argentina’s wild spaces – from glacier parks to desert canyons – are fragile. Stick to marked trails, don’t litter, and never feed wildlife (yes, even that curious fox in Tierra del Fuego). Use refillable bottles – water’s safe to drink in most cities.
• Be smart around protests and politics: Public marches are common, especially in Buenos Aires. They’re usually peaceful and a core part of Argentine civic life. Observe with respect, don’t join uninvited, and avoid making jokes about politics – it’s personal here.
• Respect cultural spaces: In towns like San Antonio de Areco, where gaucho culture runs deep, or in indigenous communities in the northwest, ask before taking photos, and engage with humility. These aren't shows – they're real lives.
• Watch what you photograph: Murals and graffiti often have deep political or memorial meaning, especially around sites related to the Dirty War. Don’t pose for selfies with serious tributes unless it’s clearly appropriate.
• Tip fairly, not excessively: In restaurants, 10% is standard. For taxis, rounding up is enough. Tip hotel staff and guides if they’ve gone out of their way – it’s appreciated but not obligatory.

Don’t underestimate Argentina’s distances

Argentina looks manageable until you realize a “quick hop” from Buenos Aires to Patagonia is a 3-hour flight – and 12+ hours by bus. Even within regions like the northwest or the Lake District, drives can be long and winding. Always check the actual travel time, not just what it looks like on a map. If you're planning to road trip, build in rest days. Rushing from glacier to vineyard to salt flat isn't just exhausting – it's missing the point.

Monday is when Buenos Aires takes a break

Museums across Argentina – especially in Buenos Aires – often close on Mondays. That includes big names like MALBA, Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes, and smaller spots too. Don’t let poor timing derail your city days. If you're planning around things to do in Buenos Aires, use Mondays for walking tours, Recoleta Cemetery, local ferias, or just a long café sit with medialunas. Always double-check schedules – and don’t assume public holidays mean everything’s open either.

Learn to roll with last-minute changes

Transport strikes, protest marches, and weather delays are all part of the deal in Argentina. Buses might not leave. Flights might be rescheduled. Your hotel might not have working Wi-Fi. Don’t panic – pivot. Check for updates, ask locals for alternatives, and build some flexibility into your plans. Argentines are experts in improvising – you’ll fit right in if you learn to do the same.