As the eighth-largest country in the world, Argentina has a bevy of stunning attractions, ranging from awe-inspiring landscapes, teeming wildlife, vibrant cities, and its passionate culture. It’s no wonder that it draws more or less 7 million travelers annually, who want to see the amazing destinations in the country. If you’re one of them, here are the best places to visit on a trip to Argentina, that will get to you diverse locations but will collectively provide a humbling, rewarding travel experience.
Iguazu Falls
Hailed as one of the world’s seven natural wonders and as UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Iguazu Falls is nothing but a sight to behold. It spans 2.7 kilometers wide, which divides into 275 cataracts or smaller waterfalls. Argentina shares this natural landmark with Brazil, with the Argentinian side situated in Iguazú National Park in the northeastern Misiones province. You can take the walkways and stay at the viewing platforms to get jaw-dropping views of this majestic waterfall.
Córdoba
Nearly 700 kilometers from Buenos Aires lies the quaint Cordoba region. Nestled at the foot of Las Sierras mountains, it is more renowned for its laid-back way of life accentuated by its incredible wild outskirts. Within its city, you’ll have a fun time seeing beautiful Spanish colonialist architecture and art galleries. At its fringes, your adventurous heart will be filled with awe with all the great array of hiking and backpacking opportunities it offers.
Buenos Aires
Dubbed as the “Paris of South America,” the Argentinian capital, Buenos Aires, greets its visitors with a beautiful blend of Latin American and European heritage and influences. Striking neoclassical architectures dot the city, while the South American festive grandeur can be felt in every corner of the streets. Some attractions you should not miss include the local barrio of La Boca, the impressive Teatro Colón, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the adjacent Plaza de Mayo.
Ibera Wetlands
Ibera Wetlands is the world’s second-largest wetland and one of the world’s most significant freshwater reservoirs. Covering 1.3 million hectares, the protected natural reserve consists of marshes, lagoons, swamps, bogs, all remaining unspoiled by mass tourism. It’s the best place to see the pristine wilderness and an abundance of wildlife, including capybaras, otters, monkeys deers, alligators, and lots of bird species, from magpies, eagles, herons, and rheas.
Mendoza
Mendo is a lively city synonymous with wine. Wine lovers treat the city as the base to access and tour the Argentinian vineyards. Apart from wine-tasting opportunities, it also has a great trove of beautiful shops, restaurants, cafes, buildings, and plazas that are illuminated at night, providing a truly scenic view. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, don’t worry as Cordoba is a great way to outdoor adventures, such as hiking, climbing, river rafting, and skiing, at various breathtaking natural spots situated near the city.
Los Glaciares National Park
Los Glaciares offers one of the most easy-to-access ice fields in the world. Here, you’ll witness turquoise lakes, massive glaciers, and forest-clad icy slopes. Don’t miss out on savoring the ravishing views of the Perito Moreno Glacier, the park’s most famous and recognizable ice formation, stretching 30 kilometers long. If you’re up for some challenge, the 3,359-meter-high Monte Fitz Roy offers magnificent mountain climbing and hiking opportunities.
Ushuaia
Do you want to see the “End of the World”?” Well, you can do that in a physical sense by going to Ushuaia. It has the distinction of being the world’s most southernmost city. Thus, its infamous name. The island used to serve as a naval base and an exile prison. Situated at the Beagle Channel, it is encompassed by dramatic and diverse views of seas, mountains, woods, and glaciers, proving its status as one of Argentina’s must-see places.
Valdés Peninsula
Another UNESCO World Heritage, the Valdés Peninsula is valued for its teeming animal and sea life. Here, you can see thousands of penguins, sea lions, and elephant seals. It attracts tourists, especially during the orca feeding season, when these massive marine predators display their incredible hunting techniques. The site also serves as the breeding ground of the endangered southern right whale and many migratory birds, making it a wildlife lover’s haven.
Bariloche
Situated on Cerro Otto’s slopes, Bariloche ranks among Argentina’s best sporting locations. You can go kayaking, skiing, fly fishing, horseback riding, and hiking while enjoying the sensational views of the Andes Mountains and Nahuel Huapi Lake.
El Chalten
Originally designated as an outpost, El Chalten is a small frontier town located in Argentina’s Patagonia region. Today, it’s regarded as the national trekking capital of Argentina, given its incredible array of wonderful trails, such as Condor Mirador, Lago Del Desierto, and the Laguna de Los Tres trail.s.
Takeaway
Amazingly unique, a visit to Argentina will give any traveler a once-in-a-lifetime experience. So, go ahead and discover the places outlined in this list and continue discovering the country’s other hidden gems.