The second-largest country in South America, Argentina is full of diverse landscapes and passionate culture. From awe-inspiring natural wonders to rich cultural heritage and tantalizing culinary delights, Argentina offers a kaleidoscope of experiences that will leave you spellbound. Whether you are seeking adventure in the rugged Andes, immersing yourself in the vibrant streets of Buenos Aires, or indulging in the world-renowned Argentine beef, this diverse and captivating destination is on many travellers must-visit list.
To show you why you won't want to miss Argentina off your South America itinerary, our destination specialists have pulled out the five biggest reasons they recommend visiting this gorgeous country:
1. Wonders of nature
2. Experience Carnival celebrations
3. Raise a glass in Mendoza
4. Taste the best BBQ in the world
5. Try something completely different
Colorful Caminito street in the La Boca neighborhood of Buenos Aires
1. Wonders of nature
Any visit to Argentina wouldn't be complete without taking in some of the country's most magnificent natural wonders. From Iguazu Falls to the dramatic Perito Moreno glacier, and the Salina Grandes salt flats, Argentina is full of incredible landscapes that will take your breath away.
Iguazu Falls
The Iguazu Falls are one of Argentina’s most famous natural attractions. The spectacular system of waterfalls, which has about 275 vertical falls, is recognized as the world's largest waterfall formation. These magnificent waterfalls, which span 2.7 kilometres along the border between Argentina and Brazil, are almost three times as big as Niagara Falls. The Devil's Throat Fall, which is 82 metres high, is the most famous and highest among the falls.
> READ MORE: Iguazu Falls: What to do and where to stay
Part of The Iguazu Falls seen from the Argentinian National Park
Salina Grandes salt flats
The Salinas Grandes salt flat, which is the largest in Argentina and the third largest in the world, is well-known as a tourist destination and is regarded as one of Argentina's "seven natural wonders." Additionally, it is a portion of the traditional homelands of the Kolla and Atacama inhabitants. By gathering salt, managing herds of livestock, and cultivating crops, they have adapted their way of life to the arid environment of the area.
Salina Grandes Salt flats
Perito Moreno glacier
The 19-mile-long Perito Moreno Glacier, which bears the name of a 19th-century explorer, today reaches an estimate of 73 meters above the water. The glacier's total area is around 313 square kilometres. It is a portion of the third-largest freshwater reserve in the world, an ice field that is shared by Argentina and Chile. The glacier was included in the Austral Andes region of Argentina and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1981.
Perito Moreno Glacier, Patagonia
> READ MORE: Perito Moreno Glacier Travel Guide
2. Carnival celebrations
Argentinian Carnival celebrations may be less well-known than their Brazilian counterparts, but they're just as extravagant and exciting to be a part of! The best and biggest Argentinian Carnival is Gualeguaychú Carnival (200km from Buenos Aires) which takes place in January & February each year. Thousands of people travel from all across the country to attend this carnival. The carnival, which is the most Brazilian of all the Argentinian celebrations, was influenced by their Brazilian neighbours. It resembles a Brazilian carnival, with Argentine passion mixed in.
The Gualeguaych Carnival is Argentina's equivalent of the Rio Carnival. There are numerous samba parades there, all of which feature stunning Argentine dancers decked up in sparkles and plumes. Carnival royalty, amazing floats, stunning outfits, and tonnes of latin dancing are all present. Gualeguaych even developed its own Sambadromo, the Corsódromo, which has a capacity for 40,000 spectators.
Argentinian Carnival
3. Raise a glass in Mendoza
With not one, but three wine regions in Mendoza, Argentina is a great destination for wine lovers to explore! 76% of Argentina's vineyards are located in Mendoza, which also has the most wineries overall. This elevates it to the status of the most significant wine region and one of the world's major production centres. Mendoza is home to the tallest Andean peaks, including Aconcagua, the highest summit in America. The creation of exceptional wines, which add to a strong winemaking tradition, is greatly influenced by the altitude, continental climate, heterogeneity of the soils, and snowmelt.
Vineyards in Mendoza
> READ MORE: Best Places to Drink Wine in South America
4. The best BBQ in the world
In Argentina, a barbecue or “asado” is not just a way of cooking meat; it is an art form. Argentinians enjoy eating exceptionally well-done beef. A proficient asador must be capable of prepping the meat on the parilla (shelf), controlling the fire, and managing the correct grilling. The smallest portions are cooked horizontally, while the entire pieces are prepared vertically.
In Argentina, it is traditional to consume "the whole animal" when an asado is prepared. When serving, it's important to follow a set order that begins with the animal's less desirable portions (tripe...) and finishes with its best cuts (rib steak...).
Asado BBQ
> READ MORE: Top 10 Things to Do in Buenos Aires and Beyond
5. Try something completely different
Go horse riding with gauchos or take in a tango show! Step out of your everyday and immerse yourself in Argentinian culture to make memories you'll treasure forever.
A unique blend of indigenous Latin American customs and European practises make up Argentina's culture and traditions. While Spain established an early presence in the area, Italian immigration in the 19th century contributed a Mediterranean flavor to the culture, particularly the cuisine.
Argentina is most famous for inventing the tango. The dance, which has its roots in Buenos Aires in the 19th century, combines European, Caribbean, and African influences. Although it caused quite a stir when it first appeared on the dance scene, officials viewed it as a moral threat because of the sensual character of its movements.
Argentinian Tango, Buenos Aires
Want to know more?
Explore our guide to Argentina to find out the best time of year to visit and read more about its spectacular attractions.