A land of unique natural wonders, from the glaciers of Patagonia to Iguazú Falls. A dazzling capital, Buenos Aires, and the authenticity of the Gauchos in the Pampas.
Les Essentials
Argentina in detail
Click on regions to see related articles.
Capital :
Buenos Aires
Area :
2.8 millions km²
Population :
45.7 millions
Currency :
Argentinian Peso | 1000 AR $ : 1 USD
Language :
Spainish
Time difference :
GMT-3 / -5h in summer | -4h in winter (Paris)
Best seasons :
march-april | october-november
Argentina
Practical info
Gastronomy
Grilled beef or lamb (asado patagonico) is a traveler's delight. Served with a side of crudités and sometimes sausages (chorizo) and offal (achurras), they can be found in many specialized restaurants. Seafood, such as spider crab, can be enjoyed in the Valdes region and in Ushuaia. In the north-west, the cuisine comes in criollo flavours, based on stews and cassoulets. For dessert, cakes made with “dolce de leche” (milk jam) are ubiquitous.
Wine, of course, is produced in the Mendoza, Cordoba and north-western regions. Also worth tasting is the national drink, yerba maté, an infusion (or maté) of bitter herb drunk from a calabash with a metal pipette (or bombilla).
Embassy
In the world : https://embassies.net/argentina-embassy
Crafts
Leather goods are plentiful all over the country. In Buenos Aires and the Pampa, notably in San Antonio de Areco, silver objects inspired by gaucho culture. In the north-west, rich handicrafts made by the indigenous communities who live there: wool textiles, ceramics and decorative objects.
Credit cards
VISA or MASTERCARD are accepted in hotels and restaurants. Pesos can be withdrawn from secure cash dispensers, especially in Buenos Aires.
Route selection
Climate
In the southern hemisphere, the seasons are reversed. Ideal conditions for Patagonia are between October and March. For the Northwest, from March to November. The Iguazu region can be visited all year round.
Best periods:
NOA (North region) - April to November
Northeast (Iguazu) - all year round
Buenos Aires and center - year-round
South (Patagonia) - October to March
Electricity
The electrical current is 220 volts with European-style outlets (round prongs) or Type I outlets (slanted flat prongs). An adapter may be required for your devices.
Public holidays
Opening hours
Argentina is in the GMT-3 time zone and does not observe daylight saving time. There is a -4 hour difference with Central Europe in winter and -5 hours in summer.
Internet
Internet coverage is excellent in major cities and tourist areas, with free Wi-Fi often available in hotels, cafes, and restaurants. In remote areas, connectivity may be limited.
Language
The official language of Argentina is Spanish. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, and sometimes French.
Money & Change
The official currency is the Argentine peso (ARS). It is advisable to exchange your money at official exchange offices or banks. ATMs are widespread but it is better to withdraw limited amounts due to high fees.
Clothes
The basic rule is to pack light, warm clothing, even if the trip takes place during the austral summer. A windbreaker and parka are recommended for trips to the Andes and Patagonia. For the Iguazu region, light clothing and a raincoat. And above all, good, soft, comfortable shoes.
Taxis
Choose official taxis and ensure the meter is running. In Buenos Aires, apps like Cabify or Uber are convenient and reliable.
Health
Tap water is safe to drink in major cities like Buenos Aires, but it’s better to use bottled water in rural areas. Consult a doctor for recommended vaccinations and carry travel insurance.
Security
Argentina is generally safe for tourists, but stay alert in major cities like Buenos Aires, especially against pickpockets. Avoid displaying valuables in public and be cautious on public transport.
