Argentina, the second largest country in Latin America is blessed with vast and varied landscapes that range from rugged peaks of the Andes to the glaciers in Patagonia and grasslands of the Pampas, making it a scenic retreat for all kinds of travelers.
CURRENCY | Argentine Peso |
CAPITAL | Buenos Aires |
TIME ZONE | (GMT-3) – India is 8 hours and 30 minutes ahead of Buenos Aires, Argentina |
POWER PLUG | 220/240V. Standard plugs will need an adapter to a two-pin plug |
INTERNATIONAL CALLING CODE | +54 |
Entry requirements: Some countries needs visa to entry Argentina. Please check with your local Embassy or Consulate.
While official visas are not required for tourist visits, the Argentine Government started charging a “Reciprocity” (sometimes referred to as an “Airport Entry Fee”) for persons entering using passports of certain countries: USA, Canada, and Australia. The fees paid dependent on their nationality – visitors from the United States are charged US$160, Australia US$140, and Canada US$75 . So far, this has ONLY been imposed at the two Buenos Aires Airports (Ezeiza and Aeroparque Newbery airports) for all international arrivals. It is NOT being imposed at other Argentine airports (such as Cordoba or Mendoza) for international arrivals, and is NOT being imposed for arrivals by land or boat.
Departure tax: in Latin America, airport taxes are sometimes not included in the ticket price. International airport taxes can usually be paid in either local currency or US$ Dollar. Make sure you leave sufficient U$D or local currency in cash.
International airport tax is U$D 29,00 and domestic airport tax is U$D 8,00.
Buenos Aires is hot and humid throughout the summer months (Nov-Mar) with tropical rainstorms a possibility. In the winter (Jun-Sep) there are pleasantly warm sunny days but it can be cool and drizzly.
The Patagonia region is very unpredictable with more chance of good weather over the summer months (Nov-Mar).
Winter (Jun-Sep) can be bitterly cold, but there is a chance of some cloudless skies and great views.
Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
Rainfall (inches) | 4.0″ | 4.6″ | 4.5″ | 3.8″ | 2.8″ | 2.1″ | 2.0″ | 2.3″ | 2.9″ | 4.0″ | 4.2″ | 3.7″ |
The varied climatic conditions throughout Argentina make it an all year round destination as there will be some or the other region ideal for exploring at any time of the year. Cherish the scenic beauty of Patagonia in the months of December to March, when the region is at its best and sees loads of visitors. The fascinating metropolis of Buenos Aires, which almost every tourist will have in his or her itinerary is ideal for visiting in the months of March to May. The temperature is pleasant for exploring the city during these months and also during the spring season from September to November.
Salta: Pack for a dry climate, warm during the day but often very cold at night.
Buenos Aires: Appropriate dress is required when dining in the high-end restaurants.
Iguazú Falls: Pack quick-drying clothing/waterproofs, especially if a boat trip is incorporated.
Bariloche: Weather can be unpredictable and layered clothing is recommended (see CLOTHING – GENERAL section).
Patagonia: Famous for having four seasons in one day, pack appropriately (see REGIONS section).
Mendoza: Lightweight clothing for excursions. Temperature drops in the evening.
Trelew/Peninsula Valdés: Can get very windy though temperatures generally considered mild for Argentina.
Please also see see REGIONS section, for more advice.
Spanish is the national language, although in Argentina it is spoken in several accents and has absorbed many words from other languages, especially Italian.
Vaccinations:
This information is intended as an overview only. Please read HEALTH AND VACCINATIONS section and always consult your doctor. At the time of writing, no vaccinations are mandatory.
Yellow fever: Vaccination is recommended if visiting northern and north-eastern forested areas of Argentina bordering Brazil and Paraguay where altitude is below 2,300m.
Malaria: If you are visiting Iguazu or the Esteros del Ibera, take insect repellent, and seek advice about the current risk level. Cases are very rare and mostly confined to rural areas along the borders of Bolivia and with Paraguay.
Water: Make sure you drink plenty of liquids and especially water. Tap water is drinkable in Buenos Aires, but you might prefer to protect yourself by using bottled water.
Sun protection: Use sun block to protect your skin, especially in the south, where the ozone layer is thin. Always wear a hat.
Recommendations
Eat: Your travel consultant can provide a number of popular restaurant and other recommendations for your destination(s).
Drink: Malbec wine characterized by its deep color and intense fruity flavors. Also try mate– the national infused hot drink with a grassy, herbal flavor.
Some notable events
Feb/Mar Carnival (annual dates vary): Celebrated all over the country. The cities of Corrientes and Gualeguaychu have a lively carnival tradition. Murga groups (a form of musical theatre) operate in Buenos Aires during carnival.
Feb/Mar Buenos Aires Tango Festival: There are masses of performances all over the city and lots of opportunities to learn a few steps of the famous national dance.
1st week March Fiesta Nacional de la Vendimia in Mendoza: A world-renowned celebration of wine and the wine-making industry. A great time to sample some of Mendoza’s finest whilst watching the elaborate processions.
11-18 May Feria de Galerias de Arte in Buenos Aires: Huge contemporary art fair showcasing many painters, artists, photographers and designers from Argentina.
End of October Eisteddfod takes place in Trelew. A remarkable tribute to the Welsh heritage of region