Tour Argentina

Diverse landscapes, remarkable animal species and delicious steaks with a delicious glass of wine to enjoy. All that, and more, Argentina offers you. You will also notice that Argentina is a country with ardent passion. It's nothing for nothing that the tango is so popular here. Discover this unforgettable destination in South America for yourself!

1. Characteristics Argentina

So that you are well prepared for your trip, we have listed all the information you need for you. From practical information about vaccinations and the best time to travel, to the highlights for a tour of Argentina.

2. Preparing for your holiday in Argentina

If you go on holiday to Argentina you will need a passport that is valid for at least 6 months after arrival in the country. For a tourist stay of maximum 90 days you do not need a visa.

2.1. Vaccinations

For your Argentina vacation it is also good to check with a vaccination agency in your area if you need vaccinations. Vaccinations for DTP (Diphtheria, Tetanus and Polio), Hepatitis A and Yellow Fever are recommended. Although the yellow fever vaccination depends on the area you are going to visit. Personalized vaccinations may also be necessary. During the consultation you can go through all of this and you will receive tailor-made advice. Since May 2019, Argentina has been officially declared malaria-free. However, it is wise to take mosquito repellence into account.

It is wise to make an appointment at a vaccination agency in your area 4 to 6 weeks before you travel. The vaccinations you need are usually in stock so that they can be set immediately. The costs for this vary per office. You pay an average of €24 for a consultation which also includes a vaccination booklet. For a vaccination for DTP you lose on average €25, a vaccination against Hepatitis A costs around €55. And if you need a yellow fever vaccination, it will cost you on average €48. Also check your insurance policy. There are (supplementary) insurances that reimburse (part of) the costs of travel vaccinations.

2.2. Practical tips

Don't forget to pack a travel or world plug. You may need this if you want to use or charge electrical devices.
You can't drink the tap water in Argentina. So buy bottles of mineral water, which in principle are available everywhere.

3. Travel advice Argentina

Before you go on a round trip, it's a good idea to check the travel advice for Argentina. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will issue this. And for Argentina there are risks that differ from the Netherlands. This mainly has to do with crime. In large cities you have to be alert for theft. For example in Buenos Aires and Mendoza at bus stations and in and around hotels. Be careful not to be distracted after which you will be robbed.

You should also watch out for strikes and demonstrations. These can occur especially during the Argentine summer holidays - it starts before Christmas. They can cause disturbances that can lead to violence. If there is a strike day, it is often impossible to travel around the country or there are delays. Avoid mass gatherings or gatherings of people. You can follow the local news on the spot. Your accommodation or travel agent can also keep you informed. And always follow the instructions given by the authorities. We would like to share with you some precautions you can take for a safe journey.

• Avoid quiet streets after sunset
• Be careful on the street and don't walk alone if possible.
• Avoid poor and slums. Violence between drug gangs occurs here.
• On the street you better not use a cell phone.
• Leave your valuable and/or eye-catching jewelry at home.
• Papers and money you don't need right away should be kept in a safe place.
• If you want to pin in shops or restaurants, you need to be able to identify yourself. You will be asked to write your signature and passport number on the ticket.
• Pass up for burglaries and robberies if you travel in a car through the interior of Argentina.
• Don't leave valuables in the car if you leave them unattended.
• If you travel by taxi, choose only official taxis. And pay with proper money, to avoid problems with fake change.
• You can't take or use drugs to Argentina. There are high penalties for the possession and use of (soft) drugs. And in the prisons the circumstances can be described as very bad.

4. Climate Argentina

4.1. Different climates

Due to the vastness of the country, the different landscapes and the differences in altitude, Argentina has different climates. Most of the country, the central and western part, has a Mediterranean climate. Average temperatures of around 20 degrees throughout the year make this a pleasant destination. The southern part of the country has a maritime climate. In the summer it averages 22 degrees and in the winter about 5 degrees. You have more chance of snow and rain here. The north can be described as subtropical with dry local winter months and wet local summer. It rains a lot in the rainforests. Temperatures in summer are around 40 degrees, in winter this is an average of 12 degrees.

4.2. Rainfall

In some parts of Argentina a lot of rain can fall. For example, the northeast along the border with Brazil and Paraguay is much wetter than the rest of the country. Floods can occur near the major rivers in case of continuous rainfall. During the local summer between December and March you will notice that some roads in the northwest of the country are sometimes impassable. If you are traveling during this period, it is advisable to follow the local news. This way you will stay informed of the situation on the spot.

5. Travelling through Argentina

Argentina is a vast country and there are several airports where you can fly to. From Schiphol Amsterdam you fly in about 14 hours with a direct flight to the airport near the capital Buenos Aires. To other places like Córdoba there are often no direct flights and you will have to change flights. This of course increases the travel time. If you take a taxi from the airport to the city, you will have to take an airport taxi or a depot taxi. You book these at the counter at the airport, after customs.

5.1. Domestic flights

Once you arrive in the country, you can choose for example a domestic flight for traveling through Argentina. There are several airlines that offer this. They are only often fully booked far in advance. So if you're not there early, you'll have to choose one of the other transport methods the country offers.

5.2. Train

Another option is to travel by train. The train is only a slow way to get around. It also gets you to fewer destinations than the bus, for example. However, the train is generally cheaper than the bus. So if you have the time, you can book a train journey to get from A to B.

5.3. Bus

The bus network in Argentina can be described as excellent. Buses come to many places throughout the country. In addition, they are clean, comfortable and safe. For example, newspapers and snacks are sold in the bus. In almost every city you will find a bus station where you can find counters of the different companies. Keep in mind that in summer the network is more extensive than in the other seasons. During the rest of the year it can be more difficult to get everywhere. You can choose from different classes when buying a ticket. Especially for long or night rides, the more expensive class is recommended. Here you get, for example, large leather chairs and wide windows.

5.4. Metro

In Buenos Aires you can use a clear metro network. For a huge city this is a nice and convenient means of transport. The metro takes you to all districts of the capital. It is recommended to always take good care of your valuables. And don't be surprised if the metro isn't always clean.

5.5. Taxi

In the cities you can also take a taxi. These drive off and on. For your own safety it is advisable to order a taxi by phone (radio taxi). Don't let it be known that you don't know your route, it's advisable to check it out beforehand. If a taxi driver notices that you do not know the way, he will be able to turn around. And because of this you pay extra of course. Taxis often drive on meters. You can also agree in advance on a fixed price for a specific destination. Also make sure you pay as much contact as possible. This will prevent you from getting any false money back.

5.6. Rent a car

If you want you can also drive your own car through the country. This way you can get to the far corners that are inaccessible by public transport. And the road network in Argentina is well maintained. In most cities and airports you will find international and local rental companies. Take a good look around before you book, because prices can differ. And make sure you have good insurance.

You will need your Dutch driving licence together with an international driving licence. You can pick it up in person at any ANWB shop and take it with you straight away. All you need to bring with you is a passport photo and your Dutch driving licence. Rental companies may also have specific requirements. Think of a minimum age or a minimum number of years that you have your driver's license.

Please keep in mind that if you come to remote places outside the big city, there is often no mobile network. So if you have car trouble, it can sometimes take hours before help arrives. Make sure you have enough water, food and fuel with you in the car. It is also recommended to lock the doors and keep the windows closed to prevent a robbery. And if there is heavy rain, some roads, especially in the northwest of the country, are sometimes impassable.

6. Sights of Argentina

Argentina offers a wide variety of sights. From nature with waterfalls and glaciers to world cities - on a tour of the country you will come across it all. And to make sure you don't miss anything during your holiday, we list the highlights for you.

6.1. Serranias Del Hornocal

In the north of Argentina you can visit the Serranias Del Hornocal. This is a collection of mountains about 25 kilometres from the town of Humahuaca. They reach an altitude of over 4700 meters. Their appearance is what makes these mountains unique. This whimsical row of rocks in the shape of teeth offer spectacular colours. At the end of the afternoon, the colours are at their best as the sun brings out vibrant hues. You can book a tour to visit these mountains. Although it is also good to drive around with a car yourself.

6.2. Parque Nacional Iguazú

Also in the north, but on the eastern side of the country, there is a large natural park: Parque Nacional Iguazu. By the way, the park is located on the tri-border point with Brazil and Paraguay. It has existed for thousands of years. And it is believed that more than 10,000 years ago there were people in the rainforest. Indeed, remains of pottery from prehistoric times have been found along the banks of the Iguazu River. In this subtropical rainforest you will find more than 2700 plant species and all kinds of animals such as the giant otter and jaguars. And in the heart of the Iguazu National Park there are 275 waterfalls.

You can buy your entrance tickets for the park in advance. This gives you access to different parts of the natural park. You can also use the ecological jungle train. This train is specially designed for the Iguazu national park and adapts to the climate and the surroundings of the rainforest. The train is not completely closed, so you are in direct contact with the environment, the sounds and the smells.

6.3. Iguazu Falls

The Parque Nacional Iguazú is especially famous for the Iguazú Falls. The 275 waterfalls in total extend over 2700 metres. The water falls down to about 80 meters. This spectacle can be admired from different points in the natural park. And a spectacle are these world famous waterfalls for sure. At the entrance ticket for the national park you get access to both the lower and upper circuit. At the lower circuit you will reach the Parana river where all the water will end up. You can also choose the upper circuit where you walk on a path of over a kilometer that runs from the jungle directly over the water. Along the way you will find several vantage points.

6.4. Garganta del Diablo

The most impressive part of the waterfalls is the so-called Garganta del Diablo - the Devil's Throat. This is an 80 meter high and 150 meter wide (almost) circular waterfall. Here the water collapses 70 meters into the deep. You get here by choosing the upper circuit. You start here when you train through the jungle at Devil's Throat Station. From the balcony at the end of the bridge you get a beautiful view over this part of the waterfalls.

6.5. Los Terrones

From Capilla del Monte you can visit the Natural Park Los Terrones. This park is not very large and is therefore sometimes skipped. But that really is a shame. Because here you walk between towering sandstone rock formations, while the condors fly through the air. There are several paths in the park. Note that you need good walking shoes. You can take a taxi to the park or go with a guide.

6.6. Teatro Colon

In the capital Buenos Aires you will find the concert hall Teatro Colón. The theatre offers a combination of both seating and seating. And the acoustics are considered one of the best in the world. You can take a guided tour of the theatre. You will discover all the secrets of this architectural building.

6.7. Jardin Japones

One of the largest Japanese gardens of its kind outside of Japan can be found in Buenos Aires called Jardin Japones. This garden is a symbol of the eternal friendship between Argentina and Japan. Here you will enjoy a hypnotic tranquillity and a green contrast to the chaos of the city. In winter you will find the cherry blossom, in summer the purple water lilies bloom and in autumn you can see the yellow leaves on the ginkgo biloba tree. Every season is different in the Jardin Japones. The park is open to the public, you only have to buy an entrance ticket. Some people walk around the whole park in 30 minutes, others stay for hours to enjoy a little piece of green heaven on earth.

6.8. San Telmo

Bustling Buenos Aires is a huge city where almost 3 million people live. You'll find several neighborhoods here, each with its own atmosphere. The oldest district of the city is San Telmo. According to the locals, this is also the most traditional neighborhood where people still live as in former times. Here you will find colonial houses and stately homes. You'll also find parts where you don't walk on asphalt, but on cobblestones.

And, if you want to enjoy the tango, you will find a large selection in the Bohemian San Telmo. Visit one of the authentic tango bars you'll find here, and enjoy the tango as it used to be danced. In this district the Feria de San Telmo is organized on Sundays. This market with hundreds of stalls is a good place to see contemporary art and antiques. You can also meet a dancing tango couple just like that.

6.9. Recoleta

If you want to take a nice walk through the capital, the district Recoleta is a must. In this prosperous area you will find Parisian-style mansions, luxury shops and lush, former palaces. And at the cemetery of this district you walk between extravagant graves. Many national icons are buried here, such as Eva Perón. By the way, if you don't want to spend hours searching for the graves, it is advisable to walk around the cemetery with a guide.

6.10. Puerto Madero

6.11. Camino de los Siete Lagos

If you want to see a lot of nature in the north of Patagonia in one day, you can take the ´Camino de los Siete Lagos´. Translates this is the route of the 7 lakes. Part of the national road 40 has been given this name because of its picturesque landscape. And of course the access to the 7 most important lakes where the route is named after. This part of Route 40 runs from Villa La Angostura to San Martín de los Andes.

Of course you can also take several days to drive el camino de los siete lagos. On the way you can make excursions in the area, discover the lakes by boat or visit a fresh market at one of the communities in the area. You can take the itinerary by car, book an excursion or go for a walk. Check with the tourist information in advance how the roads are, as they can be impassable during certain seasons.

6.12. Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi

In the south of Argentina lies the oldest park in the country: the Nahuel Huapi national park. This area is also known as the Argentine Lake District because of the many lakes you will find there. A famous one is the Nahuel Huapi lake with an area of over 500 km2. Here you can very well make a kayak trip while enjoying the surroundings.

There are several places in the park. The largest is San Carlos de Bariloche. From here you can undertake various activities in the forest, mountains and lakes. You can visit the park by car or for example take a walk through part of it. Excursions and activities are also possible. Besides kayaking, you can also think of cycling, mountain climbing and rafting.

6.13. Parque Nahuelito

Feel like a day of relaxation for the whole family? Then the Parque Nahuelito on Route 77 is the right place. Here you'll find more than 30 life-size dinosaur sculptures. Here you can take a journey back in time and learn more about prehistoric Patagonia. During a walk along the paths you will come across the replica of the dinosaurs that once lived here.

6.14. Parque Nacional Perito Moreno

In the west of the country, on the border with Chile, lies the Parque Nacional Perito Moreno. This protected area is known for its isolation and bad weather conditions with punishing winds throughout the year. It is also one of the most unknown parks in Patagonia. Do not confuse this park with the Perito Moreno glacier found in the Parque Nacional Los Glaciares.

Because of the lower number of visitors than other parks and the minimal infrastructure, you will really feel the unique feeling of being in the middle of nature here. The natural park is almost untouched by people. You can only reach the park from the east side. The rest is closed to the public so that the natural environment is protected.

6.15. Parque Nacional Los Glaciares

In the south of Argentina, on the border with Chile, lies the Parque Nacional Los Glaciares. This natural park includes forests and lakes as well as glaciers, ice fields and snow-capped peaks. The ice caps here are the largest continental ice expansion after Antarctica. And in view of the thaw, several large lakes have emerged into which melt water flows.

You can visit this park from the village of El Calafate. You have to buy a ticket for this. Make a trip where you can see the beauty of nature up close. Or take a boat trip on one of the lakes and enjoy the spectacle of nature from the water.

6.16. Pasarelle axis Perito Moreno

In the south of the park you will find the most famous glacier Perito Moreno (translates Brown Dog). As ice chunks fall off, you can see this spectacular phenomenon here with your own eyes. A special way is via the Pasarelas Perito Moreno. This is a footbridge that shows you the front of the glacier. In this way you can see the large blocks of ice falling from up close. You'll find this footbridge about 30 kilometers from the entrance of the park. By the way, you'll find several vantage points along the footbridge that each show you the glacier from a new perspective.

6.17. Monte Fitz Roy

With over 3300 meters towers Monte Fitz Roy above the Argentine plains. This mountain peak is also called Cerro Chaltén. And, it is the highest granite peak in the Parque Nacional Los Glaciares. By the way, Monte Fitz Roy is located exactly on the border between Argentina and Chile.

You might as well take a walk at Monte Fitz Roy. The mountain peak is outside the mountain village of El Chalten, where you can reach it by bus from El Calafate. And from here there are several day hikes and circuits available. Mountaineers will notice that the mountain is difficult to conquer. Unpredictable weather and almost vertical granite flanks ensure that only experienced climbers of a high level can climb the mountain.

6.18. Laguna Torre

In the Parque Nacional Los Glaciares you will also find Laguna Torre. This lake is named after Cerra Torre, the mountain. And it is formed by the melting water of the glaciers. You can very well make a hike here. The Laguna Torre hike is relatively easy and runs over mostly flat terrain. Only the first part you have to do some climbing and altimetry. It is a one-way hike. So you walk the same route there and back. To reach the lake you walk 9 kilometers there and then 9 kilometers back.

7. Book a round trip to Argentina: compare providers and accommodations

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