Argentina is a country that is as diverse as it is large. It contains large cities influenced by European architecture and you can discover mountain towns that rival those in the Swiss alps. Dive into all the variety of nature that ranges from rugged landscapes, to expansive glaciers, to beautiful lakes, to colorful mountains, and more. After Blueprint Travelers traveled around the country for more than 3 months, we put together this list of our top 10 things to do in Argentina based on the moments that were most significant in our travels to help you decide how to focus your limited vacation time. There is no significance to the order of this list.
Experiencing the Perito Moreno Glacier
The Perito Glacier is one of the easiest glaciers to visit in the Patagonia region of Argentina. Not only will you be able to walk around the glacier on boardwalks, you can also hike onto the glacier or even kayak along it to really take in the greatness of this immense natural feature. Because of the rate that the glacier moves you are likely to hear and see the ice tumble into the lake during your visit. It is an unforgettable experience that makes it one of the top things to do in Argentina and it can easily be visited from the nearby town of El Calafate.
Thrill Boating to Iguazu Falls
The Iguazu Falls (located both in Argentina and in Brazil) are breathtaking and enormous and there is no better way to see them than up close on the river below them by boat. As you race up the river towards the falls you can feel the immense power of the waterfall before getting completely soaked. Seeing these waterfalls from the walkways of the park is still one of the top things to do in Argentina but taking the boat ride to the falls is just the cherry on top and a must do experience during your visit.
Animals in the Atlantic Patagonia Region
Atlantic Patagonia is a lesser visited part of the Patagonia region of Argentina. Here, you can interact with many different animals in the expansive protected lands. Whale watching is one of the top things to do in Argentina and by visiting the Valdes Peninsula in the right time of year you are almost guaranteed to see the immense southern right whales here. And where else can you walk among one of the largest colonies of penguins in the world! You also have the chance to see orcas, sealions, guanacos, and more!
Exploring the Neighborhoods of Buenos Aires
Exploring Buenos Aires is one of the best things to do in Argentina due to its vibrant culinary scene, incredible sports culture, classic architecture, and more. Each neighborhood is full of character and has countless places to explore within them. Having been inspired by the architecture of Paris, France, the city center is full of glamourous buildings. You’ll also find a variety of neighborhoods with street art, parks, restaurants and bars that just add to the character of the city.
Hiking the Mountains that Inspired the Patagonia Logo
One of the best day hikes and the top things to do in Argentina is hiking to the Laguna de los Tres. This trail provides incredible views of the iconic mountains that inspired the Patagonia (U.S. apparel company) logo. This hike starts from the town of El Chalten within Southern Patagonia in Argentina and takes a full day through beautiful views and landscapes. The town is a hiker’s haven with multiple other hikes worth doing that depart directly from the town center.
E-Biking around the Circuito Chico of Bariloche
Bariloche is a mountain town in the lakes region of Northern Patagonia in Argentina. One of the top things to do in Argentina is renting some e-bikes and riding around a loop circuit here known as Circuito Chico. This route will take you to different views, hikes, breweries, and more. It’s a full day of Patagonia adventure around a town that feels like a Swiss mountain village.
Wine Tasting and Dining in Mendoza
Mendoza has one of the premier wine regions in the world and exploring the various wineries and bodegas is one of the top things to do in Argentina. You can visit various bodegas in a day trip or dive deeper into the wine region by staying directly among the wineries and vines. And a meal at Bodega Azul is something that you cannot miss, combining an Argentine party vibe with delicious food and wines.
Seeing the Colorful Quebrada de Humahuaca
The mountains in the north-west part of Argentina are full of colors because of the various minerals found in the mountains. Some have up to 14 different colors such as the impressive Hornocal near the town of Humahuaca. In addition to the beautifully unique landscape, this area has quaint towns that are full of character. It feels completely different from the culture of the rest of the country. If you want to experience unique Argentine food, music, and culture you will not want to miss a visit to the Salta and Jujuy region.
Boating Around the Beagle Channel
The Beagle Channel is located at the very south of Argentina and can be discovered from the town of Ushuaia. Many people begin their voyage to Antarctica through this channel. Even if you are not going to Antarctica, sailing on the Beagle Channel is still one of the top things to do in Argentina. Taking a boat tour around this channel allows you to see the amazing mountains and wildlife here. Some tours even take you to a penguin colony or allow you to hike on one of the rugged islands! After your sailing experience you can hike in the rugged landscapes around Ushuaia, learn about its penal colony history, and eat delicious seafood in this incredible part of Argentina.
Discovering the Amazing Food of Argentina
Argentina has unique culinary offerings with its grilled meats, rich dark malbec wines, and oven baked empanadas receiving global acclaim. Pasta, pizza, and gelato are some of the other most beloved dishes found all throughout the country. What makes Argentina’s culinary scene so unique is that there are significantly different specialties found across its regions such as Northwest Argentina, Southern Patagonia, Northern Patagonia, and more. Trying the different cuisine as you travel around the country is one of the top things to do in Argentina and you can read about the different food to try around the country in the link below.
