Argentina

Wondering about the best time to visit Argentina? It’s a question that deserves careful consideration of the location, seasonal climate, and popularity of other travelers.

Argentina is a huge country, with latitudes from the tropical to the sub-Arctic. Each destination has something to offer throughout the year. Remember that seasons are reversed in the Southern Hemisphere. December, January, and March are the warmer months. The shoulder season months (October / November and April / May) tend to have fewer visitors, a good climate, and better values.

Spanish is the official and predominant language in Argentina. English is spoken in locations frequented by foreign visitors and in larger cities, but in rural areas, it’s all Spanish. At LANDED, we offer the services of a bilingual tour guide to ensure you don’t miss a single detail of the rich cultural information shared during your travels.

What to pack for your trip to Argentina depends on which destinations you’ll visit, how long you’ll be away, what you’ll be doing in Argentina, and the time of year.

Still, here are some essentials to help you get started:

• Passport. Lock the original in the hotel safe and keep a copy (say, a photo of the passport’s photo page) with you at all times.
• US cash in small denominations for tips. Currency exchange establishments will only take $100 dollar bills (clean, un-torn bills). US dollars are happily accepted throughout Argentina and may help you obtain better prices at shops.
• Credit & ATM cards. ATMs are available and major credit cards are accepted at most restaurants and hotels. Please confirm your travel dates and destinations with your card issuers before you leave the country.
• Airline flight information
• Camera, batteries, & data cards (or film, if your hands are occasionally scented by fixer or selenium)
• Electrical adapter, universal surge protector, & power strip
• Daypack or small backpack
• Sun protection (sunblock, sunhat, & sunglasses)
• Insect repellant & antihistamine (anti-itch) spray if you’re headed to the tropical north
• Prescription medications
• Rain jacket
• Synthetic fleece pullover or other warm layers
• Swimwear
• Light, informal clothing for dining and hotel or in cities (it’s amazing how versatile a charcoal grey sweater can be). In the evening locals usually dress smart casual or business casual but some restaurants are more formal.
• Comfortable walking or hiking shoes
• Wind-resistant jacket, gloves, hat, and trekking pants (if you’re headed to the Andes and/or Patagonia).
• Casual dress code is recommended if you are planning on an Estancia day. Jeans or Khakis with a shirt, comfortable walking shoes or boots. Avoid inner seams if you plan to go horse riding.
• If you are planning to Tango, or at least giving it a try, then women are suggested comfortable high heels while men should try to wear flat, non-rubber sole shoes. For Tango Gala Nights, elegant evening attire is required. Men: Suits or Jackets. Women: elegant evening attire (not long).

LANDED has also prepared a special packing list for travelers visiting Patagonia.

Argentina is generally quite safe; however, common-sense precautions are still important. Buenos Aires is one of the largest cities in the world; big city awareness is appropriate. Bag snatchers and pickpockets target public transportation hubs and tourist areas. As a general rule, you should not be out in the streets alone after dark. Stay in well-lit areas and be aware of your surroundings. Most incidents occur in the street. Keep your travel documents (e.g. passports) in the hotel safe or concealed in a zippered pocket. Leave that flashy wristwatch at home or in the hotel security box.

No matter how short your visit is, you’ll want to experience some of the essential Argentina experiences. You won’t want to miss:

• Strolling through the dynamic neighborhoods of Buenos Aires
• The majesty of Iguazu Falls
• Exploring the Perito Moreno Glacier in Los Glaciares National Park
• Hiking in El Chalten, better known as the Trekking National Capital
• Taking a scenic drive along the famous Route 40
• Taking a tango lesson
• Enjoying a traditional asado with family and friends
• Visiting exquisite Estancia La Bamba de Areco ranch near Buenos Aires
• Exploring the picturesque wine region of Mendoza

No matter where you go or what you do, you’re sure to enjoy an unforgettable trip that will linger in your memories for years to come. With LANDED, the possibilities are limitless! Contact us today and start planning your adventure.