Studded with outstanding natural wonders and endowed with one of the world’s most stylish capital cities, Argentina is a vast and varied land. Tapering from the Tropic of Capricorn towards the tip of Antarctica, it encompasses a staggering diversity of terrains, as revealed in our guide to some of the best things to do in Argentina.
The stretch between Villa La Angostura and San Martín de los Andes — known as the Ruta de los Siete Lagos — runs through one of the best places to visit in Argentina.
Expect mirror-like lakes, pine forests, and the kind of silence that makes you pull over just to take it in.
Our tips are to take a 4WD so you can explore beyond the main road, and stop at lakes like Espejo, Correntoso and Machónico — it's ideal as a full-day drive with picnic spots and trails along the way.
The best way is by rental car from either San Martín or Bariloche. The drive takes around 3 to 4 hours, with stops at pristine lakes like Lago Espejo, Lago Correntoso, and Lago Machónico.
The best time to visit is during summer (December to March), when the weather is warm, days are long, and road conditions are ideal.
Want more context on when to visit? Read up on the best time to visit Argentina.
One of the lakes of Seven Lakes Road © Felix Malte Dorn/Shutterstock
Worth seeing are the impossible shades of blue at Perito Moreno Glacier, a natural wonder of Argentina. Listen to the symphony of cracks, thuds and whines while admiring the 60m high ice cliffs.
This glacier is not the longest in Argentina, but it's the one with the most star quality — stand on the boardwalks and witness the jagged mass of crevasses and towering séracs.
When it collides with the southern arm of Lago Argentino, the show begins as vast blocks of ice crash into the waters below.
The Perito Moreno Glacier is located in Los Glaciares National Park, near the town of El Calafate, in southern Patagonia, Argentina.
From El Calafate, it takes around 1.5 to rive, or else take a bus. In addition, numerous guided tours include hotel pickup, entrance fees, and optional boat rides or trekking.
For more transport context, read up on getting around Argentina.
The best time to visit is October to April (spring to early autumn) when the weather is milder and the park is fully accessible. This is also the best time to visit to enjoy most of the best things to do in Patagonia.
The dramatic scenery of Perito Moreno Glacier © saiko3p/Shutterstock
While in Argentina, wildlife lovers will want to explore the sparkling lagoons of the Esteros del Iberá, a 13,000 sq km wetland teeming with diverse wildlife. Getting up and close with them is one of the best activities in Argentina you can do.
From hummingbirds to herons, this vital ecosystem offers unparalleled opportunities for close observation.
Wander through swamps, lakes, ponds, streams, and floating islands formed by waterlilies.
Immersing yourself in the magic of this Corrientes Province gem is one of the best things to do in Argentina if you love nature.
Located in the Corrientes Province in the country’s northeast, the main access point to the park is Colonia Carlos Pellegrini.
From Posadas, it’s a 4–5-hour drive. From Corrientes City or Mercedes, buses go to Mercedes, then take a 4x4 or transfer to Pellegrini (about 2.5 hours).
The best time to visit is during the dry season, from April to October, when roads are more accessible and wildlife viewing is excellent.
Esteros del Iberá is a great place to birdwatch in South America © Aleksandra H. Kossowska/Shutterstock
San Telmo is a small barrio in Buenos Aires, known for its charming, decaying facades and cobbled streets.
The barrio was once home to grand mansions, but became a tenement neighbourhood after a yellow fever epidemic. The area's original features were preserved, making it a popular destination for tourists, bohemians, students, and artists.
San Telmo is also famous for its Sunday antiques market and its association with tango, and a great place from which to enjoy some of the best things to do Buenos Aires.
Want to linger longer in the capital? Read up on where to stay in Buenos Aires.
Located just south of the city center (Microcentro), San Telmo is easily accessible.
By subway (Subte), take Line C to Independencia Station, or Line D to Catedral Station, then walk 10–15 minutes.
It’s also a pleasant 15–20-minute walk from Plaza de Mayo.
San Telmo is vibrant year-round, but the best time to visit is on Sundays, during the San Telmo Feria (market), when Defensa Street fills with antique stalls, tango dancers, food vendors, and local artisans.
The best seasons to visit are spring (Sept–Nov) and fall (Mar–May), which offer mild weather that’s ideal for exploring.
Discover San Telmo in Buenos Aires © Diego Grandi/Shutterstock
A prehistoric mural, an early finger-printing exercise or ancient graffiti? Whatever it is, this delicate tableau of many hands is one of the continent’s most enchanting archaeological sites.
Pre-Columbian cave paintings are found all over Santa Cruz, but those at Cueva de las Manos are the finest. The walls here are covered by paintings of hands and animals, principally guanacos (relatives of the llama).
Thought to be anything between 3,000 and 10,000 years old, history buffs won't want to miss this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The nearest town, Perito Moreno (not to be confused with the glacier) is about 160 km away
From Perito Moreno, drive or take a guided tour on Ruta 40 and then Ruta 97 (unpaved).
As the final section involves a steep canyon road and short walk to the site, a 4x4 vehicle is recommended, especially after rain.
Alternatively, talk to our local Argentina travel experts, who can curate an Argentina itinerary that includes tours and transfers to trickier-to-reach spots.
The best time to visit is during Patagonia’s summer (November to March) when the weather is dry, roads are passable, and temperatures are mild.
The infamous UNESCO world heritage site © buenaventura/Shutterstock
Climbing Cerro Aconcagua, the highest peak outside the Himalayas, is one of the top outdoor activities in Mendoza, Argentina's adventure capital.
Despite its extreme altitude (it atands at 6962m), it can be climbed with the right preparation and a guide.
Just note that this is a very challenging experience, requiring fitness, patience, and acclimatization, and not recommended for those without experience in high-altitude treks.
Cerro Aconcagua is located in the Andes of Mendoza Province, in western Argentina near the Chile border, within Aconcagua Provincial Park.
To get here from Mendoza city (the base hub), it’s a 180 km drive by car or tour.
The park entrance is near Puente del Inca, just before the Chilean border.
The best time to visit is during the Andean summer — mid-November to mid-March.
Seek guidance from experienced professionals before attempting this climb © sunsinger/Shutterstock
City-based nature lovers wondering what to do in Argentina will definitely want to visit the Paraná Delta.
Only 21km from the capital, it's a maze of lush green islands, waterways, and traditional houses on stilts.
And you can explore Tigre in this subtropical Venice of the Buenos Aires Province by boat or kayak — it's name comes from the jaguars that once roamed the area. It's a wonderful way to feel nature within reach of Buenos Aries' buzz
The easiest way to get to Tigre is by train from Buenos Aries.
Take the Mitre Line from Retiro Station to Mitre Station (30 minutes), and transfer to the Tren de la Costa. This tourist train runs along the river and take you to Tigre Station in 25 minutes)
Alternatively, take the Mitre Line directly to Tigre Station for a faster service, or else book a scenic boat ride from Puerto Madero or San Fernando.
Tigre is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is in spring (September–November) or fall (March–May) when the weather is mild and better suited to boat rides and walking.
Parana Delta: an incredible place © Christian Saez/Shutterstock
The world’s biggest dinosaurs once roamed Neuquén Province, in Argentina's lake district, and nothing conveys their immensity like standing underneath their skeletons, or seeing their giant footprints in the rock.
Discoveries in the area since 1988 have made it a hot spot for dinosaur enthusiasts.
While here, it's easy to imagine dinosaurs roaming the plains and pterodactyls flying from the cliffs as you travel to the sites. As such, it's a great place to visit when visiting Argentina with kids.
Public transport may be difficult, so consider going on a tour from Neuquén for easy access.
You can fly into Presidente Perón International Airport from major cities like Buenos Aires (2 hours), Córdoba or Mendoza.
Meanwhile, long-distance buses from Buenos Aires take about 16–18 hours, and Neuquén is also well-connected by coach lines to Mendoza, Bariloche, San Martín de los Andes, and more.
Alternatively, driving from Buenos Aires via Ruta Nacional 5 and Ruta 22 takes about 14–15 hours.
The best time to visit Neuquén depends on your interests. Spring and fall (Mar–May) are best for city exploration and visiting wineries. Summer (December to February) is best for kayaking, rafting, and fishing.
Come June to August (winter) , it’s a good base for winter sports in nearby Andean ski resorts.
Some of the best fossils of South America in Neuquén © Shutterstock
The world's southernmost city, and one of the best places to visit in Argentina, Ushuaia is the gateway to the breathtaking landscapes of Tierra del Fuego and Antarctica.
Nestled between majestic mountains and the crystal-clear waters of the Beagle Channel, this chaotic, charming city is the perfect base from which to explore the rugged beauty of the region, and a launchpad for major adventures.
A popular destination in Ushuaia is the Museo del Fin del Mundo (End of the World Museum), which features an impressive assortment of artefacts from the initial voyages and the native inhabitants of the coastlines.
Fly into Ushuaia’s Malvinas Argentinas International Airport — direct daily flights run from Buenos Aires (3.5–4 hours), and some seasonal flights connect from El Calafate, Bariloche and Cordoba.
The best time to visit Ushuaia depends on your interests. Summer (December–March) is the best overall season, thanks to its mild and long daylight hours, with the peak season for Antarctica cruises (Dec–Feb) departing from Ushuaia’s port.
Come winter, Ushuaia becomes a winter sports destination, with skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing adventures on offer at Cerro Castor, Argentina’s southernmost ski resort.
Snow capped peaks of Ushuaia — one of the top tourist attractions © mmtsales/Shutterstock
What better to accompany a juicy grilled bife de chorizo than one of the Mendoza province’s award-winning malbecs or syrahs? Wine tasting is one of the best things to do in Argentina.
Argentina is a top wine producer and is home to many famous wineries. 75% of the country's production comes from Mendoza's Maipú and Luján de Cuyo regions. San Rafael, La Rioja and San Juan are also major wine-growing areas.
Many wine experts would agree that Argentina has some excellent vintages as a result of both a domestic market that’s fast becoming more discerning and the lure of exports.
Ready to take a trip to the Mendoza region, which has much to ofer beyond world-class wine? Don't miss our guide to the best outdoor activities in Mendoza.
Mendoza is located at the foothills of the Andes Mountains in western Argentina.
To get to Mendoza city to access the wine areas, fly into El Plumerillo International Airport (MDZ) from Buenos Aires (2 hours), Santiago de Chile, or other major Argentine cities, or take a long-distance buses from Buenos Aires (14–16 hours).
The main wine regions lie just outside Mendoza city, and include Maipú (20–30 minutes), Luján de Cuyo (30–45 minutes), and Uco Valley (1.5–2 hours). It’s easy to book wine tours with transport, tastings and meals.
The best time to visit Mendoza’s vineyards is during spring to fall (October to April), when the vineyards start blooming and the weather is mild.When to visit Mendoza's vineyards
Go wine tasting or take a wine tour in Argentina © Shutterstock
Discover world-class trekking and hiking trails in the Fitz Roy sector of South America's Parque Nacional Los Glaciares — a UNESCO World Heritage Site,
With breathtaking mountain peaks and convenient day hikes from El Chaltén, this trekking paradise offers a chance to explore some of the most beautiful mountains on Earth.
Climb the 3405m peak of Monte Fitz Roy, known as "The Mountain that Smokes" by the Tehuelche people, and witness the fiery pink colour it turns at dawn. Laguna de los Tres is a popular hike in the area.
To get to El Chaltén from El Calafate, it’s a 3-hour drive (220 km) north along Ruta 40 and Ruta 23.
The village serves as the base for trekking trails into the northern section of the park, including Laguna de los Tres, Laguna Capri, and Laguna Torre.
The best time for trekking is during Patagonia’s summer season — November to March.
Beautiful Patagonia, Los Glaciares National Park© sunsinger/Shutterstock
Nicknamed "Devil's Throat", the Iguazu Falls are some of the world's most awe-inspiring waterfalls.
They are located right against the Brazilian border. With over 250 cascades, the falls offer a glimpse into the powerful forces of nature.
One of the best things to do in Argentina is to explore the hiking trails and walkways of the Iguazu National Park. You'll find here subtropical forests and view the region's vibrant wildlife.
The question is, are you up to braving the devil's throat at Iguazu Falls?!
Iguazú Falls along the Argentinian border with Brazil and Paraguay, within Iguazú National Park.
To reach them, fly to Puerto Iguazú, which is the nearest airport on the Argentine side. Direct flights are available from Buenos Aires.
From the airport, it’s a 25-minute taxi or bus ride to Puerto Iguazú town and around 30 minutes to the national park entrance.
Iguazú Falls is a year-round destination, but your experience will vary with the season. Summer sees the waters here at their most thunderous, but it’s hot and humid, while winter means smaller crowds, but less water.
Meanwhile, the shoulder seasons (April and September–November) offer a good balance of mild weather, decent good water levels, and moderate crowds.
Spectacular views from the Iguazu Falls © sharptoyou/Shutterstock
Península Valdés is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of South America's top wildlife destinations.
Located in Chubut Province, northern Patagonia, it’s famous for its marine and terrestrial fauna, offering spectacular encounters with whales, penguins. orcas, sea lions and elephant seals.
Fly into Trelew (from Buenos Aires (2 hrs), then drive or take a bus to Puerto Madryn (65km), themain base for tours,
From Puerto Madryn, you need to drive 95 km to Puerto Pirámides, the only town inside the reserve.
The best time to visit depends on the wildlife you’re most interested in:
Argentia is known for its marine life, including elephant seals © Kris Clifford/Shutterstock
Talampaya National Park is a spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Site in La Rioja Province, northwest Argentina.
Known for its towering red and pink sandstone cliffs, ancient petroglyphs, and dramatic desert landscapes, it’s a highlight of Argentina’s northwestern circuit, and a protected habitat for condors, guanacos, and foxes.
Here you can see up close rock formations resembling surreal Gothic cathedrals, and discover an array of bird species, rich flora, and ancient petroglyphs.
La Rioja (IRJ) and San Juan (UAQ) airports offer flights from Buenos Aires and are the closest major gateways.
From La Rioja or San Juan, you’ll need to drive or take a tour to the park.
No public transport goes directly to the park, so guided excursions or car rentals are essential.
Many travelers base themselves in Villa Unión or La Rioja City and book day tours to Talampaya,
The best time to visit is during the dry season, from April to October, when temperatures are more comfortable for desert exploration.How to get to Talampaya
One of the best things to do in Argentina and even South America — La Rioja © Guillermo Caffarini/Shutterstock
Despite the unappealing meaning of its native name – “he who choked himself to death” – this perfect symmetrical cone of a volcano is both a beauty to behold and a treat to climb.
The iconic, snow-capped stratovolcano rises to 3,776 meters (12,388 feet) in Lanín National Park, in Neuquén Province, northern Patagonia.
It's located near the town of San Martín de los Andes and is part of Argentina's Lake District.
Note that summit climbs require a permit, mountaineering experience, and must be done with a certified mountain guide. The ascent usually takes 2 days with an overnight in a high mountain shelter.
To get to San Martín de los Andes, fly to Aviador Carlos Campos Airport (CPC) from Buenos Aires (2-hour flight), or drive the scenic Ruta de los Siete Lagos or Ruta 40.
From San Martín, drive or take a tour to Tromen Pass (recommended) the main trailhead (about 1.5 hours from town).
The best time to visit is during the Patagonian summer, December to March, when trails are clear, the weather is stable and access roads are open.
Lanin, Patagonia, Argentina © sunsinger/Shutterstock
A tango show in La Boca, Buenos Aires is a must-see experience for anyone interested in Argentine culture and history.
La Boca is considered the birthplace of tango and is known for its vibrant and colourful streets, where tango halls and venues are plentiful.
Tango shows are often held in historic dance halls and feature live orchestras. It's a great way to see a different side of Buenos Aires and appreciate the city's historical and cultural significance.
La Boca lies in the city’s southeast, near the old port. You can take a bus — get off near Caminito Street, La Boca’s main tourist area, or take a taxi (15–30 minutes, depending on your location).
While Caminito is safe and lively, avoid wandering into residential parts of La Boca.
Anytime of year is good!
Tango dancers, Argentina © Shutterstock
Quebrada de las Conchas (also known as Quebrada de Cafayate) is a breathtaking canyon in Salta Province, northwest Argentina, known for its vibrant red rock formations, sculpted by wind and water over millennia.
Hiking in Quebrada de las Conchas is a must-do experience for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
The area offers a wide range of trails that take you through a diverse range of landscapes, from rugged canyons to colourful rock formations.
The trails provide breathtaking views of the surrounding scenery and allow you to explore the natural beauty of the reserve. A journey through Quebrada de las conchas is one of the best things to do in Argentina.
Quebrada de las Conchas is located along Ruta Nacional 68, between Salta City and Cafayate, making it a popular day trip or scenic drive.
From Salta City, drive 183 km (3 hours) south via Ruta 68 to Cafayate. The Quebrada spans about 50 km of this route.
From Cafayate, it’s just a 15–30 -minute drive north to the start of the gorge.
The best time to visit is during the dry season, April to November, when skies are clear and temperatures are comfortable for hiking and sightseeing.
Natural amphitheatre in the Quebrada de las Conchas, Cafayate, Argentina © Shutterstock
Ready to start planning your trip? Read our guide to how to plan a trip to Argentina, and wise up on getting to Argentina and Argentina accommodation.
Not keen on planning? Contact our local Argentina travel experts, who can curate your ideal Argentina itinerary for any duration.
For example, if you're short on time, you can cover plenty on a 7 days Argentina itinerary, though extending that to a 14 days in itinerary Argentina comes highly recommended.
written by
Andy Turner
updated 26.05.2025
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