A world of emotions

Transcription

A world of emotions

Beats to your rhythm
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BOLIVIA
Regions
JUJUY
PARAGUAY
FO
Buenos Aires
RM
SALTA
CA
TUCUMÁN
M
SANTIAGO
AR
DEL
CA
ESTERO
TA
LA RIOJA
SAN
JUAN
OS
Córdoba
A
CHACO
ES
N
SIO
I
M
S
E
NT
CÓRDOBA
BRASIL
ENTRE
RÍOS
URUGUAY
O C E A N
SAN
LUIS
CITY OF
BUENOS AIRES
MENDOZA
1
P A C I F I C
2
LA PAMPA
O C
E A
N
S O U T H
NEUQUÉN
SANTA
CRUZ
Regions
• Buenos Aires
• Córdoba
• Cuyo
• Litoral
• Norte
• Patagonia
6
10
14
18
22
26
A T
L A
N T
I C
Themes
• Natural Argentina
• Authentic Argentina
• Gourmet Argentina
• Active Argentina
• Meetings in Argentina
30
48
76
92
116
S O
U T
H
A R
G E
N T
I N
E
CHUBUT
S E
A
RÍO NEGRO
Patagonia
4
3
BUENOS
AIRES
CHILE
Experience a World of Emotions
Litoral
Norte
RIE
R
CO
SANTA
FE
Cuyo
Index
Malvinas Islands
(Argentina)
TIERRA DEL FUEGO,
ANTÁRTIDA E ISLAS
DEL ATLÁNTICO SUR
This publication is property of the
NATIONAL DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM.
Its reproduction, in whole or in part,
is strictly prohibited.
APPROVED BY THE NATIONAL MILITARY GEOGRAPHIC
INSTITUTE, ACT 22963 FILE # 08 1291/5
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ARGENTINA
EXPERIENCE A WORLD OF EMOTIONS
At the southern edge of Latin America, there is an amazing land of contrasts.
A vast country full of breathtaking natural beauty: extensive plains, desert plateaus, fertile
valleys, high snow-capped peaks, low hill ranges, striking mountains and volcanoes,
multicolored hills, salt lakes, clear lakes and large rivers, a sub-tropical rainforest, and
ancient woods.
Argentina
A place where your emotions will be intensified in celebrations and festivals, in the city
and in the country, in rural towns sharing with the indigenous inhabitants; by religious,
artistic and cultural expressions, and by the passion for sports.
An ancestral paradise where you will breathe in rich aromas, enjoy exquisite dishes, and
taste excellent wines. Where you will rest and relax, because you will be taken care of
and pampered. Where you will enjoy adventures full of pure adrenaline and feel a rush
with each step you take.
A destination where you will also make your best business deals.
A country that awakens passions, turning your trip into a unique and unforgettable
experience.
Iguazú National Park, Misiones (1)
Argentina, Beats to your rhythm.
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Buenos Aires
The nearby paradise
The City of Buenos Aires is a vast metropolis full of surprises.
Discover its mysticism, innovation, tradition and charm when
visiting one of its 48 neighborhoods: the newest Puerto Madero;
La Boca, with its tango-soccer tradition; the bohemian and
colonial San Telmo; in downtown, the elegant De Mayo Avenue
and the popular Florida and Corrientes streets; the multicultural
Abasto; the traditional Recoleta; and the neighborhood of design
and the hippest restaurants: Palermo. Outside the city, to the north,
you can ride the Tren de la Costa train to visit the residential
areas, skirting the coast of the De La Plata River coast up to Tigre. In the
Delta, get on a ship, sail along the islands, enjoy the river’s fresh
air, and admire local crafts in the Puerto de Frutos. Back to the
south of Buenos Aires, you will be able to contemplate a superb
exhibition of coastal nature: the Costanera Sur Ecological Reserve.
Palermo Neighborhood, Floralis Genérica (2)
Passion for the city, passion for the country
Buenos Aires is a city that inspires love at first sight. Located along the coast of the De La Plata River, this
elegant, modern, historical, cosmopolitan and passionate city conquers you with its vast cultural, culinary,
sports, academic, and spiritual range of activities, as well as its intense nightlife. The rhythm of tango music,
the fervor of sports fans –both in soccer matches and polo championships—go hand in hand with the talent of
The province of Buenos Aires is the largest in Argentina. Here you
find natural formations such as the Paraná Delta, the grasslands
and lakes of the Pampa plains, and a sea coast of significant
ecological richness. Along the Atlantic Coast, a strip of cliffs,
dunes, mud banks, and wetlands create an environment with
great ecological heterogeneity. When the province’s horizon
mingles with the countryside, the plains open up to offer sport
fishing activities in the large water mirrors shaping the lakes.
To the south, the Campos del Tuyú National Park, one of the
youngest national parks in the country, awaits visitors with the
Mountain Ranges of Tandilia and Ventania, perfect for those
who love adventure sports. And if you like skydiving, visit Lobos,
the National Parachuting Capital.
local designers and the sophistication of golf courses. Whether you travel for business, to study, or to take care
of your health, your stay in Buenos Aires will be a thrilling urban experience.
A few kilometers away from the capital city, the Province of Buenos Aires features a breathtaking view of
endless fields. The Pampa plains are the gateway to the land of the gaucho, where you learn about the culture
of rural people, staying at stately ranches or sharing everyday life activities in rural towns. And the Atlantic
Coast is waiting for you with fun and exciting options in its beaches, sand dunes and forests.
La Boca (3)
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Puerto Madero (4)
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Art, Culture, Tradition and Modernity
Arts have found the perfect stage and audience in the city of
Buenos Aires. Tango, literature, music, films and theatre can
all be enjoyed here. Visit the magnificent Teatro Colón and
participate in the international festivals, such the Tango Dance
Festival and the Tango World Championship.
Book Store (5)
Tango, the most identifying expression of the De La Plata River,
was declared Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by
UNESCO in 2009. In Buenos Aires milongas, while striving to
master the tricks of the 2x4 and having fun learning “lunfardo”
(the dialect used in many tangos), you can taste typical dishes
and toast with the best wines. In the city, a distinguished
world-class cuisine captivates tourists immediately. In bars and
pizza parlors, visitors can taste the authentic pizza of Buenos
Aires, or try a milanesa sandwich. In the more sophisticated
restaurants, stimulate your senses with five-star menus. In the
plains, surrender yourself to an emblematic dish: the asado.
And in the coast, enjoy fresh seafood recipes.
The province is the center of traditional celebrations and
festivals linked to the culture of countryside people, such as
the Fiesta de la Tradición (Living Traditions Festival), which
takes place in San Antonio de Areco. During the summer, the
different celebrations are another excuse to visit the Atlantic
Coast, where you can enjoy the Fiesta Nacional del Mar (National
Tango (6)
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Mar del Plata (7)
Sea Festival), held in Mar del Plata. This city, together with Buenos
Aires (both of which lead the ranking of Latin-American business
destinations), is one of the most important venues for hosting
congresses, fairs and events.
In Argentina, and especially in Buenos Aires, sport events, such
as soccer and polo, are truly exciting shows. The two main soccer
clubs in the country are Boca Juniors and River Plate, which face
off every season in the “Super-Classic” game, a sports event
that is among the 50th more important in the planet. You can
also enjoy the charm of Argentine polo in the city and in the
polo fields in the outskirts. In the province of Buenos Aires
experienced riders invite you to visit rural facilities, which date
back to the beginning of 19th century. Enjoy the countryside’s
splendor staying at stylish and classical ancient mansions.
Share the rural everyday life in small towns, where you can ride
sulkies, visit farms, and stroll around without haste.
The city of Buenos Aires and the most exclusive surrounding
areas also offer visitors well maintained, beautiful, traditional
and modern golf courses. If you prefer playing near the sea,
the courses of the Atlantic Coast are your best fit.
River Plate Stadium (8)
Take a spiritual journey to the most popular sanctuaries in the
country. Visit monasteries, churches (both Catholic and Anglican),
synagogues, mosques, and Christian and Buddhists temples.
In the province, the traditional religious tourism destination is
the Basílica de Nuestra Señora de Luján and, during the Holy
Week, Tandil is a very recommendable destination to enjoy an
impressive Way of the Cross representation.
Great cities are known for setting trends. That is why Buenos
Aires, where the largest number of designers in the country is
concentrated, was declared a UNESCO City of Design. The
metropolis also gathers the greatest offer of Spanish for
foreigners and undergraduate, graduate and postgraduate
education. And if you are looking for body and health care
treatments, Buenos Aires provides avant-garde medical services
and the highest comfort during hospital stays through Patient
Management.
Polo (9)
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Córdoba
A charming valley
To the northeast of the Pampa plains, the hills of Córdoba
e m e r g e : S i e r r a s G r a n d e s , w h e re a d v e n t u re l i v e s , a n d
Sierras Chicas, with easy and demanding hiking paths.
Córdoba offers options for each visitor: adventure tourism,
traditions and rural activities, plant and animal watching,
typical cuisine and, also, good business deals.
La Cumbre Golf Club, Córdoba (10)
Hills with history
Located in the geographical center of Argentina, the province of Córdoba is one of the country’s major tourist
In Sierras Grandes, the Champaquí Hill (2790 m / 9153
ft above sea level) is one of the national landmarks of
adventure tourism. Located in the Calamuchita Valley, it offers
different options for practicing mountaineering and trekking.
Admire the beauty of this region, walk among streams
and high altitude grasslands, and get some rest in one of
its small and charming hill towns, such as La Cumbrecita,
the first pedestrian town in the country. In Sierras Chicas,
you can easily hike to the top of the Uritorco Hill, which
–according to folk wisdom— concentrates different energy
sources. Sierras Chicas is also known for having the best
weather in Argentina for playing golf, and maybe for this
reason, two of the best Argentine golf players (Eduardo
Romero and Ángel Cabrera) were born there. The Córdoba
Golf Club, in Villa Allende, is considered one of the best
courses in South America.
destinations. This may be because of its strategic location and its magnificent tourist infrastructure. Or, because
in Córdoba tradition and modernity, industry and artisanal works, peace and adventure combine in perfect
harmony. In this land where the plains become hills and the fertile valleys are crowded by streams and mounts,
you will connect with nature in a truly unique way.
Along the hilly places once populated by Comechingones, Jesuits, gauchos and Central European immigrants,
visitors can discover historic treasures, such as the Jesuit Block and Ranches –World Heritage Sites–, as well as
natural treasures, such as the Quebrada del Condorito National Park; you can be the king of the skies while
paragliding over Traslasierra; you can hike up the Champaquí, Uritorco, and Colorado hills; you can get to know
the local culture expressed in popular festivals, and enjoy, in rural ranches, delicious cold cuts, horse-riding, hill
climate, and the hospitality of the people of Córdoba.
::10::
To the west of the province, make sure you visit the unique
Los Gigantes hill, where you can discover underground
c a v e s and streams. To the north, in the Cerro Colorado
N a t u r a l a n d A rc h a e o l o g i c a l P a r k y o u r f e e t w i l l f o l l o w
the traces left by old native peoples. Eaves and caves of
red earth feature amazing cave paints, a testimony of
the peoples that used to inhabit the region. Also to the
north of Córdoba, the Mar Chiquita Lagoon, one of the
largest wetlands in Latin America, will surprise you with
its 6000 square kilometers (2340 square miles) surface,
which creates a real inner sea.
When traveling along the High Peaks Route, midway
between the summer resorts of Villa Carlos Paz and Mina
Los Gigantes, Córdoba (11)
Clavero, you will reach the Quebrada del Condorito National
Park. The park features a huge 800 meter (2624 feet) deep
v a l l e y t h a t i s h o m e t o t h e A n d e a n c o n d o r, t h e m o s t
impressive bird to ever have flown Argentine skies.
Experience the great adventure of watching these birds
fly way up high, and visit the Condorito paths on foot,
on horse-back, or bicycle.
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Land with a rich history and culture
Located in the very heart of the province, the city of Córdoba
is the provincial capital and one of the most important urban
centers in the country (the second largest city in Argentina, after
Buenos Aires). In this city, founded in 1573 by the shores of the
Suquía river, history and modernity go hand in hand.
Multiple cultural, culinary and educational options coexist with
historical sites, which have been declared World Heritage Site
by UNESCO. Such is the case of the Jesuit Block and Ranches
(located along a 250 km/155 miles circuit that extends into the
hills) where you can learn about the significant work the Jesuits
developed in Latin American lands between the 17th and
18th centuries.
The province of Córdoba is a land of traditions. For this reason,
it has been chosen as the venue of the most important popular
festivals in the country, such as the emblematic Festival Nacional
del Folclore de Cosquín (Cosquín National Folklore Festival),
during which every January you can see both celebrated and
upcoming Argentine folklore artists. Or the Festival Nacional de
Doma y Folclore de Jesús María (National Celebration of Horse
Breaking-In and Folklore) famous for featuring experienced and
skilled riders.
Córdoba is also known for its flavors. During your visit, you
will be able to delight in superb dishes, including goats from
Quilino, artisan salami, cheeses and wines from Colonia Caroya,
empanadas from Traslasierra, and the traditional fruit alfajores.
And in Calamuchita Valley, which has been populated by many
German immigrants, visitors can taste magnificent artisan beers.
Córdoba offers a wide array of 3, 4 and 5 star hotels, as well as
comfortable ranches, inns, cottages and hostels, fully-equipped
to provide tourists with the highest comfort while staying true
to local tradition. In addition, its international airport, suitable
access roads, a complete network of telecommunications and
important logistic support services are some of the features that
define the competitiveness of Córdoba as a meeting, congress,
exhibition and fair organizing venue.
Cathedral, Córdoba (13)
Jesuit Convents, Córdoba (12)
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Between the Earth and the sky
Cuyo
Formed by the provinces of La Rioja, San Juan, Mendoza and
San Luis, Cuyo is an enigmatic region for its desert landscapes
hit by the Zonda, a strong and hot wind typical of the area. Its
fertile valleys connecting the population with the production
centers, its high peaks and snowy mountain ranges, and its hot
summers and cold winters will surely make you live an intense
experience.
This region features sites that have witnessed ancient times.
The Talampaya National Park, in La Rioja, and the Ischigualasto
Provincial Park, in San Juan, were declared World Heritage Sites
by UNESCO in 2000 due to the multiple archaeological and
paleontological sites they feature.
Mount Aconcagua, Mendoza (14)
High peaks, wines, and sun
La Rioja - San Juan - Mendoza - San Luis
Located in the west-central region of Argentina, Cuyo features stunning landmarks such as Mount Aconcagua
in Mendoza, the highest peak in South America; the mysterious Ischigualasto Provincial Park (known as “Valle de
la Luna”) in San Juan; the impressive Talampaya in La Rioja; and the ancient Sierras de las Quijadas in San Luis.
A prehistoric and arid land of volcanoes, Cuyo is a privileged destination for practicing adventure tourism
and winter sports such as skiing. You can also relax in thermal waters, or meet the native peoples and rural
communities. This region of scarce rains and strong sunlight will amaze you with its productive oasis, home of
vines and olives trees, born from the ingenious work of man. In Cuyo, the Wine Routes with their colors, smells
and tastes truly delight the senses.
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Walk on the land that millions of years ago was inhabited by
the most ancient dinosaurs in the planet; admire the strangest landscapes created by huge rocks formed over centuries
of wind erosion; and discover the testimony of old cultures
(petroglyphs).
In San Juan, there is a place you cannot miss: the El Leoncito
National Park. At 2500 meters (8202 ft) above sea level, this
park has a clear and unpolluted atmosphere that makes it one
of the best places on Earth to admire the cosmos. The perfect
destination for birdwatchers in Mendoza is the Llancanello
lake, located at 1000 meters (3280 ft) above sea level and one
of the most important places in South America for bird nesting, feeding and migration.
If you love adventure, this is the place for you. Because Cuyo
offers numerous, diverse and active tourism options in the highest peaks of the Andes: Mount Aconcagua (6959 m / 22798
ft high, the highest in South America) and the Tupungato Volcano (6635 m / 21768 ft high) in Mendoza; the Bonete (6759
m / 22175 ft high) in La Rioja; and the Mercedario (6770 m /
22211 ft high) in San Juan. In Mendoza, you can enjoy snow
during the winter season in two important ski centers: Penitentes and Las Leñas. The latter is located at 2240 m / 8005 ft
above sea level and is the highest in the country. In La Rioja,
Ischigualasto, Valle de la luna, San Juan (15)
the Canyon of Talampaya invites visitors on a mountain bike
adventure, while the Atuel and Mendoza rivers in Mendoza attract rafting lovers with their rapids. Some of the spots chosen
by those who practice kayaking, canoeing, water-skiing, yachting and windsurfing include the San Juan and Jáchal rivers;
the dams of Ullum and Cuesta del Viento, in San Juan; the Los
Sauces dam, in La Rioja; and Potrero de los Funes, in San Luis.
Before, during or after an adventure, Cuyo invites you to
rest in its thermal springs resorts, among which are Termas
de Cacheuta, in Mendoza, used by huarpes tribes in ancient
times. In an incredible natural setting, the warm waters relax
and heal your body. This land also presents an experience of
absolute well being.
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An Epicurean Destination
Cuyo is the main wine-producing area in Argentina, known
worldwide for its wine excellence. In the provinces of Mendoza
(eighth wine capital of the world according to the Great Wine
Capitals international network), San Juan and La Rioja, the
properties of the soil, a dry and sunny climate, together with
a precise irrigation system by means of ditches or dripping, allow
grapes to fully develop their best qualities.
Wine Routes are an option to meet the culture of the “New
World wine” through an interesting tour of wineries that open
their doors to tourism. You will find wineries of all types: industrial
and artisan, familiar and of multinational capitals, modern and
traditional, boutique and organically produced. In Mendoza, taste
the Malbec; in San Juan, the Syrah; in La Rioja, the Torrontés.
And, wherever you are, indulge yourself with the colors, smells,
textures and flavors of the wines and cuisine of Cuyo.
Wine tourism features different options to make your visit
unforgettable. During grape harvesting months, workers and
winery owners invite you to take part in the blessing of the fruit
before the De la Carrodilla Virgin, patron saint of the vineyards.
And you can also participate in the Fiesta Nacional de la Vendimia
(National Grape Harvest Festival), in Mendoza, one of the most
important shows in the country and a popular festivity with strong
international significance. Countryside houses, ranches and the
very wineries open their doors to let you experience behindthe-scenes tours of wine-producing facilities, participate in the
harvesting, and enjoy the charm of the country. You can also
practice golf, polo, horse-ride along vineyards, and admire the
impressive skies above the grapevines, as well as follow the Olive
Oil Route!
Wine route (17)
Vines (16)
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Litoral
Deep green landscapes, red roads, and
bright waters
Criss-crossed by large rivers, the Litoral is synonymous with lavish
nature. This territory attracts nature and adventure lovers, and hosts
a cultural and historical richness that can be easily discovered by
the curious traveler.
To the north of Misiones, in the border with Brazil, from a geographical
accident emerges one of the most wonderful natural spectacles
in the world: the Iguazú Falls. Here, in the Iguazú National Park
–World Heritage Site– deep in the sub-tropical rainforest, the
river falls vertically with a load roar. Witness this unique show
that will leave you speechless. To fully enjoy it, walk along the
different footbridges, take the Rainforest Ecological Train, sail near
the waterfalls, or discover their charm under the moonlight.
Iguazú Falls, Misiones (18)
Abundance of nature and joy
Formosa – Chaco – Misiones – Corrientes – Entre Ríos – Santa Fe
The Litoral, formed by the provinces of Formosa, Chaco, Misiones, Corrientes, Entre Ríos and Santa Fe in the
north-east region of Argentina, seduces you with its wild nature. The Iguazú National Park –World Heritage
Site– and its rainforest are beyond impressive. Its endless marshlands, large rivers and astounding waterfalls will
surely take your breath away. The Litoral’s native fauna will surprise you with unique and fascinating species,
such as the yaguareté (NM).
It is a land of exuberance and joy. Experience the liveliness of its colors and delight in the legends told between
mates, where native and European traditions are very alive in ranches and communities. A place where history
revives in the ruins of the Jesuit Missions (World Heritage Sites), the National Flag Memorial, and the San José
Palace. In the humid and hot air, the beat of the chamamé and the comparsas echoes during the carnival.
::18::
In Misiones, water holds another surprise for you in the Del
Moconá Falls, of natural virgin beauty, in the Pilcomayo River
National Park and La Estrella marshland, in Formosa, and in the
Chaco National Park, in Chaco. In Corrientes, the impressive Iberá
Marshes feature a1300000 hectares (3212369 acres) area that
is home to approximately 4000 animal and plant species. And in
Santa Fé, you will find the charming and challenging riverbanks.
Litoral landscapes are ideal for plant and animal watching, bird
watching and canoeing, on tours where you can meet the local
communities (many of them are native) that live in remote spots.
And if you are fond of sport fishing, these rivers undoubtedly
are the ideal destination for you, with fish such as the Golden
Dorado and the surubim catfish.
Due to the significant river affluence, fishing is one of the
backbones of its economy, and this reflects in the eating habits
of the local population, characterized by a wide array of fish
prepared in various and delicious ways, served with side dishes
typical of guaraní cuisine. Also, along these bright rivers and
deep rainforests, you will be able to visit the Yerba Mate Route.
The remarkable features of Litoral waters are endless: in Entre
Ríos, to the south of the region, water emerges with fine mineral and
Hot Springs (19)
medicinal properties, perfect for taking some relaxing time to pamper
your body. Discovered during the last few decades, the hot springs of
Entre Ríos are located in the cities of Federación, Chajarí, Colón,
Concordia, Gualeguaychú, La Paz, María Grande, San José and Villa
Elisa. Around them, several first class thermal spring complexes
have established offering tourists spa services, and passive and
swimming pools for your entertainment. In Entre Ríos, you can
get acquainted with the national history if you take the Entre
Ríos Central Railway up to the San José Palace, former residence
of General Urquiza, and present National History Museum.
During the summer time, you can enjoy the river beaches of
refreshing waters and golden sands in the beach resorts of
::19::
Concepción del Uruguay, Colón and Gualeguaychú; La Florida,
in the city of Rosario; and Paraná Guadalupe River, in Santa Fe,
among many others.
The littoral region is also a suitable destination for hosting
conventions, exhibitions, incentive trips and congresses. With its
world-class infrastructure and capabilities, it is the perfect place
for visitors who want to approach their business in a different way.
Local legends and festivities
Mountain Biking, Misiones Rainforest (20)
Following the roads of red land, you will learn about the stories,
music and culture of the Litoral region, which are as surprising
as the surrounding nature. In Misiones the air still rings with
the echoes of guaraníes –aboriginal people of the area–, Jesuits
–who came from Europe at the beginning of the 18th century–
and their coexistence in the Guaraní Jesuit Missions, declared
World Heritage by UNESCO in 1984. If you pay attention, you
will be able to hear in the air the sweet guaraní language,
which is still in use and frequently spoken, the local lively music
known as chamamé, and the numerous legends passed on from
generation to generation that tell, fantastically and poetically,
the present and past realities of the men, women and children
of these lands.
The Litoral region experiences religion intensely and with festive
clamor. Processions and celebrations, such as that of the De Itatí
Virgin, are manifested with the same joy displayed during carnivals.
Between the months of January and February, in all the provinces
of the region, you can live the carnival with the typical parades
of decorated floats, batucadas and dancing bodies. The most
renowned and extensive is the Gualeguaychú Carnival, in Entre Ríos.
Carnival, Gualeguaychú (21)
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Norte
High altitude landscapes
With a characteristic weather and stunning geological features,
as well as a diverse and well-defined plant and animal life, you will
find varied and interesting options to tour the Norte region and
appreciate its natural beauty. In the mysterious and desolated
Puna, salt flats illuminate your soul; in the Humahuaca Ravine
–World Heritage Site since 2003–, the De los Siete Colores Hill,
the De los Colorados Road and the “Palette of the Painter”
offers visitors a world of unthinkable colors. In contrast with
the arid valleys, mountains feature a deep green landscape in
the Yungas.
De los Siete Colores Hill, Jujuy (23)
Colored hills and ancestral traditions
Jujuy – Salta – Tucumán - Catamarca – Santiago del Estero
In the Norte region, formed by the provinces of Jujuy, Salta, Tucumán, Catamarca and Santiago del Estero, nature
displays all its qualities with great generosity, offering an unforgettable show. You can walk among clouds or take a
train up to the skies to discover new horizons: the Puna and its Salinas Grandes, in Salta and in Jujuy; the Humahuaca Ravine –World Heritage Site–, in Jujuy; the beautiful Calchaquíes Valleys, running through Salta, Tucumán and
Catamarca; and the pleasant hot springs of Río Hondo, in Santiago del Estero.
Traveling over the region, you will feel thrilled by the legacy of old pre-Columbian towns and the Inca influence still
present in traditions, culture, art, religion and celebrations. Here, Mother Earth invites you to join her and taste the
local dishes prepared with her products: a regional banquet that includes locro, tamales, humitas, empanadas, chilacayore in syrup, cheeses, and wine. And of course, you will also find time for land and sky adventures.
::22::
The largest protected area of the Norte is the Calilegua National
Park, located at the southeast of Jujuy. In its terrain broken
by deep valleys, rapids and rivers, you can do different tours
on foot or riding a bicycle. In the northern end of Salta, you
can visit one of the most remote natural areas in the country:
the Baritú National Park, the only tropical park in Argentina.
You can explore the Calchaquíes Valleys in Tucumán, Salta
and Catamarca, which run from the high peaks to the plains,
through salt flats and subtropical rainforests.
The Shincal, Catamarca (24)
In the south of Tucumán, you will find the southernmost portion
of the yungas: the Campo de los Alisos National Park. Located
on the eastern mountainside of the snow-capped Aconquija, it
hosts a somehow unknown treasure, ideal for those who fond of
archeological tourism and hiking: La Ciudacita. Another option
you can enjoy in the north is visiting Copo National Park, to the
northeast of Santiago del Estero. Here, the landscape changes
and red quebracho forests emerge. In this region, you will be
able to wander around roads of incredible contrast.
Ancient stories still present
Faith is a spiritual patrimony of Argentina as a whole. And this is
especially true in the Norte, a region that hosts hundreds of churches
and chapels, and a deeply religious population. Declared of National
Interest, the Holy Week of Tilcara is an excellent display of the
Pachamama National Festival, Tucumán (25)
::23::
syncretism with which faith is experienced in the region. In Tucumán,
you cannot miss the Passion of Christ the King, in Tafí del Valle.
Among valleys and ravines, you can be part of picturesque popular
festivities. In Purmamarca, attend the Copleros Meeting, a typical
festivity where local people celebrate some of their most traditional
customs. In the Humahuaca Ravine, you can participate in the ancient
carnival celebration. In the town of Huacalera, celebrate the ancestral
Inti Raymi, the Sun Celebration. Commemorate the Argentine
independence during the Fiesta Nacional de la Independencia
(National Independence Festival), in San Miguel de Tucumán, and whirl
the poncho freely in the air together with baqueanos (guides) in the
Fiesta Nacional del Poncho (National Poncho Festival), in San Fernando
del Valle de Catamarca. In August, the Argentine north hosts different
ceremonies where Mother Earth is “offered food and drink”. Faith in
the Pachamama is the most popular belief of Andean people.
The Norte region also shows its tradition in Andean-Inca cuisine, with
recipes passed from generation to generation. As far as pleasing your
palate goes, in this region you can taste the unique meat and humita
empanadas of Salta and Tucumán, and the goat cheeses of Tafí
del Valle.
In the Norte, your experience as a gourmet tourist will only be
completed if you go on an enotourism tour, mainly in the area of
the Calchaquíes Valleys, where the so-called “high altitude wines” are
produced. Ranches, boutique hotels, inns and a wine spa offer you
a broad range of accommodation and relaxation possibilities to
complete your wine-tasting trip.
Experience the warmth of rural families and stay at the typical estates
and mansions in Salta. In Jujuy, you can enjoy Andean customs in
remodeled inns decorated with style or in stone and adobe houses,
which are a true haven of warmth and comfort. In Tucumán, the
colonial past revives in the mansions decorated with antique furniture
and local woven fabrics.
Communities belonging to the Red Argentina de Turismo Rural
Comunitario (Argentine Network of Community Rural Tourism) invite
you to visit the craft stalls and share the ancestral knowledge and
the magic of millenary peoples through their products; you can also
time travel to indigenous origins of Tucumán in the impressive Ciudad
Sagrada de los Quilmes (Quilmes Sacred City).
As regards adventure, the perfect spots are the Los Sosa River,
in Tucumán, and the Juramento River in Salta. You can practice
paragliding in El Jaire hill, in Jujuy; in the Cabra Corral Dam, in Salta;
in Loma Bola, in Tucumán; and in Tinogasta, in Catamarca.
Trekking becomes a challenging adventure, full of adrenaline, in Salinas
Grandes. And in inhospitable places such as Tolar Grande, in Salta,
those who love cross country appreciate the geographical difficulties.
After experiencing so many intense and exciting tours, treat yourself to
the pleasure of pre-Hispanic thermal springs. All the provinces of this
region have hot springs resorts, though the most traditional are the
Thermal Springs of Río Hondo, in Santiago del Estero.
Complex of Pachamama Museums, Amaicha del Valle, Tucumán (27)
Copleras (26)
::24::
::25::
Patagonia
Untamed nature
Before the immensity of the Patagonia, man becomes quite
small. To travel around this vast territory, formed by the
provinces of La Pampa, Neuquén, Río Negro, Chubut, Santa
Cruz and Tierra del Fuego, there are a great variety of options
offered, suitable for even the most demanding travelers.
Penguin Colony, Tombo Point (28)
End of the word mystic beauty
La Pampa – Neuquén – Río Negro – Chubut – Santa Cruz – Tierra del Fuego
In the south of Argentina, between the Andes and the Atlantic Ocean, the Patagonia features a breathtaking
landscape. At the foot of mountains, through millenary forests, fertile valleys and colorful lakes, the south slowly
gives way to the eternal ice of the glaciers. To the east, a long and extensive steppe is home to small towns and
old ranch houses. And, on the shores of the sea, beaches of strong winds and blue waters are the perfect environment for a magnificent animal life, including southern right whales and Magellanic penguins.
Patagonia has always been a land of travelers and adventurers. Discover the natural settings ideal for practicing
extreme sports, and a culture that is the result of the combination of native peoples and settlers. Because the south
is much more than you expect; with its legendary trains and delicious flavors; its thermal waters and lakes, rivers
and seas; a place where you can practice sport fishing and sail to the very end of the world.
::26::
Among the roads of the Patagonia, the Andean path connects
–along its 540 km (335 miles)—natural protected areas of
impressive beauty, like the National Parks of Lanín, Nahuel
Huapi, Lago Puelo and Los Alerces, across the provinces of
Neuquén, Río Negro and Chubut. Along the Andes, at the foot
of the mountains, you will find some of the most stunning lakes,
volcanoes and hills in the region –such as Lanín, with eternal
snows and 3776 m / 12385 ft high, or the Tronador, 3491 m
/ 11453 ft high, and a strange glacier known as Ventisquero
Negro—all of which seem to challenge adventure lovers. This
Andean path takes you across ancient and unique forests, such
as the Arrayanes Forest, with trees covered in red bark and
white stains (Los Arrayanes National Park), or the ancient larch
forest that is home to 2600-year-old trees (Los Alerces National
Park). Following the Andes you will find one of the most visited
cities of the south, as well as many charming mountain towns.
In Santa Cruz, the Los Glaciares National Park –declared World
Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1981– is home to 47 glaciers,
including the stunning Perito Moreno. Live a unique experience
in front of these striking ice giants, sailing around them,
walking on their surfaces, or admiring them from the distance.
Close to these glaciers, the town of El Chaltén (National
Capital of Trekking) invites you to feel the Patagonia in each
step you take.
During the winter season, you can enjoy the snow all along the
Andean region. There are major world-class ski centers, such
as Caviahue, Chapelco and Cerro Bayo, in Neuquén; Cerro
Catedral, where the Fiesta de la Nieve (Snow Festival) takes
place, in Río Negro; La Hoya, in Chubut; and Cerro Castor, in
Tierra del Fuego. In spring, the sport fishing season begins in
Patagonia. This sport can be practiced in cold and clear water
Nahuel Huapí Lake, Villa La Angostura, Neuquén (29)
lakes, rivers and streams, which also invite you to experience
new adventures, such as rafting or kayaking.
On the sea coast of Chubut, a unique place is waiting for
you: the Valdés Peninsula, declared World Heritage Site by
UNESCO in 1999, and a true nature sanctuary. Watching its
varied animal life, comprised by sea lions and elephant seals,
dolphins, penguins and killer whales, is an attraction that
prepares you for the biggest surprise: the southern right whale
(NM), a species that arrives to this area every winter to mate,
reproduce, and feed.
The sea of the Patagonia is ideal for adventure. Dive in and
explore its depths in Puerto Madryn (National Diving Capital);
take advantage of the strong winds for practicing windsurfing
and sand yachting; and enjoy the unparalleled beauty of the
southern beaches.
::27::
Patagonian treasures
From the fields of La Pampa, the land of gauchos, to the remote
corners of Tierra del Fuego, the Patagonia is populated by
men and women of different origins and backgrounds. The
influence of this cultural diversity becomes evident in the
region’s typical cuisine, which combines smoked meats of
deer or boar, trout and salmon, spider crabs, artisan beers,
chocolates, Welsh tea (inherited from European immigrants),
and the youngest wines in the new world.
Another trait of the Patagonia is the devotion of its people.
Along routes and roads, you will find images of Ceferino
Namuncurá, son of an Araucanian indian chief and the first
beatified native. At the Lanín National Park, jointly managed
by park rangers and Mapuche aborigines, you will learn
about native peoples, and transform your visit in a true
cultural experience. The Patagonia is full of stories and myths
of pioneers, famous bandoleros, gold searchers, soldiers,
::28::
Puerto Madryn, Chubut (30)
explorers, and ancient peoples who lived here thousands of
years ago and left their mark in amazing sites such as in the
Hands Caves –World Heritage Site–, in Santa Cruz.
Among the many treasures the Patagonia holds in store for
you are the thermal springs, emerging from the depths of the
Earth and famous for their medicinal and relaxing properties.
The Copahue thermal springs, located at the foot of the
Copahue Volcano, and the Epulafquen or Lahuen Co thermal
springs, both in Neuquén, invite you to experience pleasure
and well being, in communion with a fantastic natural setting.
A natural backdrop that you will also find while riding the
Historical Steam Train, the Old Patagonian Express, known as
“La Trochita”; sailing aboard cruises and trips to the end of
the world; practicing golf in the courses of the pre-Andean
area; and discovering the origins of the mythical Route 40.
Argentine Antarctica (31)
::29::
UNVEIL THE CHARMS OF NATURE
Natural Argentina
Argentina has a singular and varied geography, where vast plains and desert plateaus
coexist with fertile valleys. A place where low hill ranges and stunning mountains rise.
Where subtropical rainforests and ancient forests embrace the most diverse animal and
plant species. In each of its regions –Buenos Aires, Córdoba, Cuyo, Litoral, Norte and
Patagonia–, Argentina offers you stunning and breathtaking natural attractions.
For this reason, Argentina is the place to enjoy ecotourism at its best. You can travel
along fields, rainforests, hills and mountains; go along large rivers, clear water lakes
and millenary glaciers; and observe the animals and plants growing in the wild in its
protected regions, while admiring the thousand birds that fly across the country’s blue
skies. In Argentina you can experience nature with joy and excitement.
::30::
La Estrella Marshland, Formosa (32)
::31::
Nature Tourism
National parks
Argentina offers you multiple options to enjoy its natural heritage.
With a surface of 3.8 million square kilometers (1.45 million
square miles), Argentina hosts rich and varied ecosystems
where you can experience nature at its best. The 37 natural
areas and 4 native protected species will assure you an
unforgettable trip along pollution-free environments, including
national parks, natural reserves and the land of four animal
species –the jaguar (yaguareté), the South Andean deer (huemul),
the North Andean deer (taruca), and the southern right whale
(ballena franca austral)– declared Natural Monument (NM).
Streams and Hills, Córdoba (33)
Great display of natural beauty
Ecotourism is a respectful and responsible practice based on observing nature. It is a noble way to approach
the environment in order to enjoy its beauty, know its mysteries, and learn about its conservation.
Argentina’s National Park System is an efficient way of
preserving the wide biodiversity of the country. In these parks,
nature is untouched and can be enjoyed and, at the same
time, protected. You can visit and fall in love with all the
regions of Natural Argentina.
To the south of the province of Buenos Aires, on the Atlantic
Coast, you have one of the youngest parks in Argentina, the
Campos del Tuyú National Park.
Between 1900 and 2300 m (6233 and 7545 ft) above sea level,
in the High Peaks of the hill ranges of Córdoba, there is an
800 meter deep (2624 ft) valley above that the most stunning
of Argentine birds flies the skies: the Andean condor. In the
province of Córdoba, the Quebrada del Condorito National
Park, covering a surface of approximately 40000 hectares
(98842 acres), is the reproductive habitat of this large bird of
prey, and undisputed king of the mountain skies.
In the center-west of the province of La Rioja, in the region
of Cuyo, the mysterious Talampaya National Park is located.
It is a stunning red desert along that dinosaurs once walked,
and men left their mark in petroglyphs carved on rocky walls.
Talampaya, a 3-km (2-mile) long canyon with walls reaching
150 meters (492 ft) in height, is the main attraction of this
Park where, when you look closer, you will find curious figures
carved by the water and winds all over the centuries.
::32::
Talampaya N.P., La Rioja (34)
Tilcara, San Francisco (35)
::33::
This site, together with the Ischigualasto Provincial Park, in
San Juan, was declared World Heritage Site by UNESCO in
2000 due to the multiple archaeological and paleontological
sites it hosts. To complete you trip to prehistory in Cuyo, you
can visit the Sierra de las Quijadas National Park, located
in the northwestern area of the province of San Luis. Feel
the immensity of the past in a huge natural amphitheater
surrounded by sharp red sandy walls and reddish rock formations,
in which erosion carved the most whimsical and amazing
forms. Also in Cuyo, in the southeast of the province of San
Juan, at more than 2500 m (8202 ft) above sea level, you will
find the El Leoncito National Park.
A clear and unpolluted atmosphere, three hundred nights
without clouds per year, scarce winds, and really low humidity
Ischigualasto, San Juan (36)
::34::
make this site one of the best places in the world for astronomical
observation. And in the north end of San Juan, you will find the
160 thousand hectares (395368 acres) of the San Guillermo
National Park. With an average altitude of 3900 meters (12795
ft), it is the southernmost area of the Puna, which hosts the
greatest population of camelids in wild state in the whole country.
The Río Pilcomayo National Park, located to the northeast of
the province of Formosa, in the Argentine Litoral, has a surface
of approximately 47 thousand hectares (116139 acres), placing
it in the list of Internationally Significant Wetlands. Among
its main attractions, it features the large 800-hectare (1977acre) Blanca Lagoon, which is home to yacarés overos (Caiman
latirostris) and caiman yacare, yellow anacondas, and coypus.
Also in the Litoral, but in the province of Chaco, the Chaco
National Park is worth visiting. All along its 15 thousand
hectares (37066 acres) of quebracho woods, alternated with
savannas of caranday palm trees, you will be witness to a great
variety of fauna: howler monkeys, rheas, seriemas, and a big-sized
fox called aguará guazú, an endangered species preserved in
these protected areas. In the province of Misiones, the Iguazú
National Park –World Heritage Site– hosts one of the most
amazing natural spectacles in the world: the Iguazú Falls.
.
In the subtropical rainforest, the imposing water flow of the
river, called “big water” by the guaraní people, falls vertically
producing an overwhelming roar. Along paths, footbridges,
and balconies, you will be able to contemplate this place
from different angles, admire its waterfalls, and notice all the
colors of the rainbow in its foam. Going southward along the
Litoral, the province of Corrientes hosts the area with major
biodiversity: the eco-region of the Iberá Marshes, home to the
Mburucuyá National Park, with a surface of 17660 hectares
(43638 acres) and exceptional preservation conditions. In the
province of Entre Ríos, El Palmar National Park, 54 km (33.5
miles) from the city of Colón, protects the current largest
concentration of yatay palm trees in the country. And in the
southern limit of the Litoral region, the Pre-Delta National
Park is the only protected area that comprises islands; it is the
ideal place to let your adventurous spirit run free.
The largest protected area of the Norte is the Calilegua
National Park. Located at the southeast of the province of
Jujuy, in its 76 thousand hectares (187800 acres) you will find
a great biodiversity of animals and plants, among which is the
North Andean deer (MN). In its terrain broken by deep valleys,
rapids and rivers, you can do different tours on foot or riding a
bicycle. In the northern end of Salta, bordering on Bolivia, you
can visit one of the most remote natural areas in the country:
the Baritú National Park, the only tropical park in Argentina
that is home to an entirely wild and virgin nature. Surrounded
by mountain ranges with more than two thousand meters
(6561 ft) in height, this portion of the yungas is surrounded
by geographical accidents.
Los Cardones National Park, Salta (37)
Just 80 km (50 miles) away from the capital of Salta, you will find
El Rey National Park. With more than 44 thousand hectares
(108726 acres), it shows you a representative portion of the
yungas and its transition towards the Chaco forest. In this
province, you can also visit Los Cardones National Park, with
its arid landscape typical of the pre-Puna.
As you go deep into the Puna, you cannot miss the Laguna
de los Pozules Natural Monument, a water paradise in the
middle of the desert, to the north of Jujuy. With 15 thousand
hectares (37066 acres) at 3600 meters (11811 ft) above sea
level, it is the largest water reserve of the Argentine altiplano,
and home to more than 50 thousand birds. On the other end,
in the south of the province of Tucumán, you will find the
southernmost portion of the yungas: Campo de los Alisos
National Park, located on the eastern mountainside of the
snow-capped peaks of the Aconquija. In addition to native
plants and animals of great diversity, this park holds a rather
unknown treasure: La Ciudacita, one of the southernmost cities
of the ancient Inca Empire. Another option to enjoy in the
north is visiting the Copo National Park, to the northeast of
Santiago del Estero. Here, the landscape changes and gives place
to red quebracho woods, inhabited by endangered species
such as the jaguar (yaguareté - NM), the anteater, the giant
armadillo, and the Chacoan pecari.
Patagonia (38)
::35::
The Patagonia region, covering a large portion of Argentine
territory extending towards the south, has 13 protected areas.
With numerous lakes, mountain ranges, forests to the west
and steppes facing the sea to the east, Patagonia includes
multiple and diverse options that amaze you every step of
the way.
The Lihué Calel National Park in La Pampa displays a land
dominated by hills, plains, plateaus and hill ranges, all of which
welcome you to the region. Located in the west area of the
province of Neuquén, the Laguna Blanca National Park features
one of the most important sites where black-neck swans nest. On
the shores of this lake, surrounded by a volcanic landscape,
the Patagonian steppe coexists with the wetland.
The Seven Lake Route joins three National Parks that have lot
in common: lush forests, bodies of water of incredible colors,
and charming mountain towns.
Puerto Deseado (39)
Mountain Biking, Cuyo (40)
::36::
At the beginning of the tour along Neuquén, the first attraction
is the Lanín National Park, with its volcano at 3776 meters
(12388 feet) above sea level, eternal snows and more than
twenty lakes surrounded by pehuén, rauli beech and roble
beech forests. Following the path of the Seven Lakes you
will reach the Quetrihué Peninsula and the Los Arrayanes
National Park. The tour ends in the magnificent Nahuel Huapi
National Park and in the head city, San Carlos de Bariloche,
in Río Negro. This was the first protected area in Argentina;
it extends along approximately 700000 hectares (1729737
acres) and offers you a wide range of options to enjoy the
magnificent beauty of its landscapes.
In the Andean area of the province of Chubut, the Lago Puelo
National Park features a unique scenario. Located in the limit with
Chile, it protects the Valdivian forest that comes from the other
side of the Andes by Paso Puelo, has paths that lead you to
beautiful spots, and offers a variety of lake trips. A little further to
the south, the Los Alerces National Park hosts, in its 263000
hectares (650000 acres), a natural lake and river system that
will exceed your wildest expectations. Crystal clear waters
and an abundant plant and animal life, all embracing a unique
treasure: the largest larch forest in the country. And in
the San Jorge gulf, in the recently created Patagonia Austral
Coastal Maritime National Park, you will be able to see seabirds,
penguins, sea lions, maras, guanacos and other Patagonian
species on the shores of an intense blue sea. This is the first area
with jurisdiction over the sea and is visited by killer whales,
Commerson’s dolphins and dolphins, as well as the southern
right whale (NM) in its migratory path to or from the Valdés
Peninsula –a World Heritage Site.
To the west of the province of Santa Cruz, 47 major glaciers
descend towards the Pacific and the Atlantic. Thirteen of these
glaciers reaching towards the Atlantic pour their ice on the
waters of Lake Viedma and Lake Argentino, comprising the Los
Glaciares National Park, a World Heritage Site.
The largest glacier is the Upsala, which is 50 km (31 miles)
long and 10 km (6 miles) wide. However, the most stunning
glacier is the majestic Perito Moreno, with a front 5 km (3 miles)
long and a height of 60 meters (197 feet) above lake level.
In the northern area of the Park, you will find the Fitz Roy
hill that stands out for its height –3405 meters (11171 feet)
above sea level– and for its monumental presence.
Santa Cruz also hosts the Perito Moreno National Park,
surrounded by mounts and hills forming a huge natural
amphitheater. Along its many paths, you will be able to admire
lenga forests, glaciers, waterfalls, the steppe, fossils, and rich
native fauna. And, in the southeast, the Monte León National
Park is the first marine-continental protected area in the country.
High cliffs, small bays, beaches and islands are home to a colony
of 60000 Magellanic penguins. In the southernmost province
of Argentina, Tierra del Fuego, the Tierra del Fuego National
Park extends along 63000 hectares (155676 acres) of steep
mountains and glacier valleys; it also preserves the traces
native ancient inhabitants, the yámanas. Here, where the Andes
meet the sea, nature is untamed.
Los Glaciares National Park, El Calafate (41)
::37::
Hiking
In Argentina, a simple walk will cover your expectations since
each region of the country there is a place that will render you
speechless with every step you take. When you walk along
Argentine paths, you are part of captivating stories in full contact
with nature, its richness and mysteries. And you can enjoy a number
of tours of low and medium difficulty and different length that you
can either take alone, with friends, or with specialized guides.
Practiced in different environments of the country, hiking is more
popular in the natural protected areas and national parks of the
Patagonia, where there are miles and miles of enchanted paths.
Hiking in Misiones (42)
Along enchanted paths
Hiking is an activity related to ecotourism, trekking, horse riding and mountaineering.
As old as good, it contributes to our physical well being and allows for recreation in natural and cultural
environments.
In the province of Buenos Aires, the largest in Argentina, paths
across plains and old hills will captive you with their simplicity.
At the very heart of the Pampa plains, the Tandil and Sierra de la
Ventana hill system is an ideal place for an enjoyable tour, where
you will be able to get in touch with the plants, the animals, the
climate, and the geology of the area. The Tandil hills are the most
ancient in the continent and, if you go deep inside them, you will be
captivated by the best landscape in Buenos Aires. In Sierra de
la Ventana you can walk along one of the most popular hiking
paths of the province, the Claroscuro, and meet the Ernesto
Tornquist National Park, the most important in the province.
And when the night falls, experienced guides will take you on
night excursions to discover the secrets of the hills.
To the northeast of the Pampa plains, the hills of Córdoba appear.
In Sierras Grandes, the Champaquí hill stands out, with 2790
meters (9154 feet) of height. This area, perfect for hiking
among streams and high altitude grasslands, invites you to live
a unique experience along the beautiful hill landscapes full of
colors and sweet smells. In Sierras Chicas, as part of a simple
tour, you can walk up the full of energy and mysterious Uritorco.
Along the High Peak Route, you will reach the Quebrada del
Condorito National Park. To the west of the province, the
Los Gigantes hill invites you to take in nature, while walking
among underground caves and streams, valleys and ravines.
In Cuyo, your experience along paths reaches unthinkable
levels and it all becomes pure adventure. In the provinces of
::38::
Hills of Tandil, province of Buenos Aires (43))
Sierras Grandes, Córdoba (44)
::39::
Trekking in Tupungato, Mendoza (45)
La Rioja, San Juan, San Luis and Mendoza, the land where
wine is born and the sun always shines, an endless number of
hiking options are waiting for you, all of them in full contact
with nature and ancient stories, such as those carved in the
red walls of the Talampaya National Park, in the province of La
Rioja, and the mysterious shapes of the Ischigualasto National
Park, in San Juan. In La Rioja, the Laguna Brava National Reserve
offers you a special option: a body of water at 4200 meters
(13780 feet) above sea level, where you can admire the
colorful and stunning landscape of the Andes of La Rioja.
And in San Juan, in the Andean departments of Calingasta and
Iglesia, you can go on hiking tours and combine them with horse
riding and adventure trips riding 4x4 trucks. In San Luis, expert
guides will accompany you along its puntano paths, where the
freshness of the hills of Potrero de los Funes invites you to
enjoy a 15-meter (49 feet) high waterfall. And in Mendoza,
you can keep on hiking without much effort, but with the
same feeling of adventure. In the land of the Malbec, most paths
are of easy access and low performance, and one of the most
perfect places for this activity are the beautiful hills of Cordón
del Plata.
The Litoral, with its mighty rivers, virgin rainforest, and red
earth, invites you to experience nature at its best. And, everywhere
you go, you will also hear local stories and learn about its
overwhelming culture: the spirits of native guaraníes and Jesuits
seem to walk with you side by side along the reddish paths
that take you to the wonderful Iguazú Falls.
While touring the Chaco plain, you will travel to the very heart
of adventure. And in Entre Ríos, green hues become alive as
you walk the paths along the banks of rivers and streams.
::40::
Incredible contrasting paths will surprise you in the Norte region.
Under clear skies and with the wind blowing in your face,
you will walk across the Humahuaca Ravine in Jujuy –a World
Heritage Site. Along Tucumán, Salta and Catamarca, from the
high peaks to the plains, through salt flats and subtropical
rainforests, you will be thrilled by the sublime Calchaquíes
Valleys. In Tucumán, the remains of a high altitude Inca city
–La Ciudacita– offer you an unforgettable experience in an
ancient place of great historical richness.
Of all the hiking paths in Argentina, the Andean Path specially
stands out. It is a major trekking path along that you can tour,
from north to south, the Andean area of the provinces of
Neuquén, Río Negro and Chubut in the Patagonia.
Along its 540 km (335 miles), this main path neatly connects
the National Parks of Lanín, Nahuel Huapi, Lago Puelo and Los
Alerces. It extends along pre-existing paths so as to reduce the
environmental impact, in an environment at the foot of the
mountains, offering you charm, diversity and surprises, together
with intense experiences surrounded by an exceptional natural
setting. The tour includes several typically Patagonian cities
and villages: Esquel, Cholila, Epuyen, El Hoyo, Lago Puelo, El
Bolsón, El Foyel, Villa Pehuenia, Bariloche, Villa Traful, Villa la
Angostura, San Martín de los Andes, and Junín de los Andes.
In the south of Argentina, you can also walk along the
enchanted forests of San Carlos de Bariloche, in the province
of Río Negro; and enjoy the coastal landscape in the Valdés
Peninsula, a World Heritage Site, in the province of Chubut.
In Santa Cruz, you cannot miss going on the unique guided
hikes in the Perito Moreno National Park, up Cerro León, and
along the Belgrano Penunsila Natural Path, among many others.
Also in this province, the town of El Chaltén (National Capital
of Trekking) invites you to participate in the main trekking events
in the country along wonderful paths.
And in the arid landscape of Tierra del Fuego, in the Mitre
Peninsula you will walk among the remains of ship wrecks,
abandoned factories, and wild horses running free on the beach;
and you cannot forget to visit the incredible area of Lago
Escondido and the southernmost city in the world, Ushuaia.
Darwin’s Viewpoints, Santa Cruz (47)
::41::
Plant and Animal Watching
Punta Tombo, Chubut (48)
Eyes wide open
The varied Argentine geography and climates turn this country into a true Eden for watching native plants and
animals. In addition, endangered species are protected in national parks, reserves and natural monuments.
The great diversity of natural environments in Argentina offers 18 eco-regions, where certain geomorphologic and
climatic conditions predominate, and which are inhabited by a significant number of dominant animal and plant
species. All in all, 18 landscapes as different as stunning. And all this nature is within your reach.
::42::
In the south of the City of Buenos Aires, on 350 hectares
(864 acres) of river land that originally was part of the De La
Plata River basin, you will be able to contemplate a fantastic
display of coastal nature: the Costanera Sur Ecological Reserve,
an spontaneous habitat of fauna typical of the Paraná Delta, a
100,000-year-old alluvial basin, with an area of 19200 square
km (7413 square miles). In the province of Buenos Aires, nature
is the Paradise that surrounds you. About 75 km (46 miles) to
the north of the Argentine capital, the Otamendi Strict Natural
Reserve is located, where Pampean nature emerges before you
in all of its glory. This reserve is part of the list of Wetlands of
International Importance, according to the Ramsar convention,
and it is one of the IBAs (Important Bird Areas) in the country.
The countryside disappears in the horizon and the Pampa plains
emerge, hosting large bodies of water –the Pampean lakes–,
home to reeds and starfruits, and of the calm beauty of the waxyleaf nightshade.
Located in the geographical center of Argentina, the province
of Córdoba, the enchanted valley where nature seems calm, is
one of the country’s major tourist destinations. Its hills, plains
and ravines create a charming natural setting, perfect for your
relaxation and leisure. The main protected natural areas in Córdoba
include the Uritorco and Colorado hills, to the north, and the
Mar Chiquita Lagoon, the largest inland lagoon in the country
and one of the most extensive wetlands in Latin America. The
hill ranges of Córdoba are home to plant and animal rarities,
like the regional chañar (Geoffroea decorticans), and carob
trees in the Calamuchita Valley.
In the center-west of Argentina, in the Cuyo region, the province
of Mendoza, eighth world wine capital and land of eternal
snows, offers visitors an endless number of natural attractions.
Next to Mount Aconcagua, “the upper limit of America”, you
cannot miss Valle Hermoso in the High Andes, where hiking
across virgin forests will truly overwhelm you. In San Juan,
where the wind Zonda reigns, more than seventy species of
cactuses extend over the desert soil; in the mountains, short
shrubs dominate the landscape; and in the plains and valleys,
next to the very vineyards where the genuine Syrah grows,
Tegu (49)
Otamendi Strict Natural Reserve, Province of Buenos Aires (50)
::43::
brea (tessaria absinthiodes), tusca (Acacia decurrens) and carob
trees cover the land. In San Luis, the province of pure air and
microclimates, while driving along its routes and byroads you
will be able to see the almost extinct Pampean deer; at the
foot of the Sierra de Comechingones, you will discover the main tourist
center of the province: Villa de Merlo. In La Rioja, land of olive
groves and arid plains, the puma is the king of the hills. Among
vicuñas, guanacos and red foxes, pumas seem to be watching
you from 4200 meters (13780 feet) above sea level, in the Laguna
Brava Reserve. This natural area also protects beautiful pink
flamingos and powerful eagles.
The Litoral, land of deep green landscapes and mighty bright
waters, is located in the northeast of Argentina, with an exuberant
and wild nature that will captivate you at first glance. In the
Iguazú National Park –a World Heritage Site –, the subtropical
rainforest emerges in all its splendor. Surrounded by caranday
palm trees and arborescent ferns, the red sunsets here are an
unforgettable experience.
Yacaré overo (51)
::44::
The endangered animal species, stars of famous legends, enjoy
life right next to you. In the province of Entre Ríos, gateway to
the Litoral, you will sail along the Paraná River among largesized fish such as the surubim catfish and the Golden Dorado,
which can also be admired in the rivers of the province of Santa
Fe. In Corrientes, where the Iberá Natural Reserve emerges,
you will thrilled by the rare aguará guazú, a maned, tall wolf
with long legs. To the north of the region, in Misiones, you can travel
along land paths and cross its streams to admire the richest
ecosystem in terms of plant and animal life in Argentina: The
Misiones Rainforest. Going a little further to the north, the province
of Chaco offers you an ideal paradise to fall in love with nature:
the Chaco National Park. And in Formosa, you can sail along
the La Estrella Marshland only in canoes; this animal reserve
is the third top wetland in the continent after the Pantanal
(Brazil) and the Iberá Marshes.
In the provinces of Jujuy, Salta, Tucumán, Catamarca and Santiago
del Estero, nature displays all its qualities with great generosity,
performing an unforgettable show. The Norte, land of multiple
colors, will take your breath away. In the mysterious and desolated
Puna, salt flats and high mountain landscapes illuminate your
soul; in the Humahuaca Ravine –World Heritage Site since 2003–,
the De los Siete Colores Hill, the De los Colorados Road, and the
Palette of the Painter offer you a world of unimaginable colors.
In contrast with the arid valleys, the mountains features a deep
green landscape in the Yungas, home to more than 230 plant
species and some endangered mammals, such as the jaguar
(yaguareté - NM) and the North Andean deer (taruca - NM).
The Patagonia thrills you with its many natural wonders. Surrounded
by the Andes, you can travel along millenary forests and fertile
valleys in the provinces of Río Negro and Neuquén, near ancient
volcanoes and beautiful lakes. In Río Negro, the huge plateau of
Somuncurá has a strong personality; it is a site of great natural
value, a shelter for unique animal and plant species, such as
the Somuncurá frog and the naked characin. In Neuquén, you
will find numerous forests of Andean monkey-puzzle trees, also
called pehuén trees. On your way to the Patagonian coast, you
discover how waters become lakes, rivers and even glaciers, and
the steppe guides you to places such as the Valdés Peninsula,
World Heritage Site and home to the southern right whale (NM),
and Tombo Point, with its huge Magellanic penguin colony, in
the province of Chubut. In the southern Santa Cruz, the Deseado
Ria offers multiple ecotourism options, including watching
large colonies of penguins and grey cormorants; if you travel
southwards, you can see how the Andes get covered by snow
and become large white ice fields. And at the end of the world,
you will be welcomed by the beauty of Isla Grande in Tierra
del Fuego and the vast Antarctica, where you see the marine
Antarctic ecosystem, a land inhabited by seals, whales, the huge
Emperor Penguins, as well as an incredible diversity of birds.
Mar Chiquita, Córdoba (53)
Maipo Volcano, Laguna del Diamante N.R., Mendoza (54)
Uritorco Hill, Córdoba (52)
::45::
Birdwatching
Argentina is one of the world’s top destinations for birdwatching.
Almost a thousand species –10% of the birds in existence in
the planet– regularly inhabit the country and many can be
watched in protected areas and specific sites such as wetlands
–many of them were declared RAMSAR sites. In each of the 18
eco-regions of the country, there is a particular set of species
offering you a unique display of the variety of birds present in our
territory. The 273 important areas for bird preservation cover
12% of the total surface of the country, and half are protected
by different regulations or have been declared national parks or
reserves, either provincial or municipal.
Birdwatching, Corrientes (55)
Meet the stars of the skies
This activity, known as birdwatching, is carried out through the human eye, sometimes assisted by visual
enhancement devices, such as binoculars. Related to Nature Tourism, it is practiced by 43 million people around
The most important birdwatching areas are the Iberá Marshlands
and the Iguazú National Park, in the Litoral; and the El Rey and
Calilegua National Parks in the Norte region. In addition, four
sites form the Hemispheric Reserve Network for Coastal Birds:
the Mar Chiquita Lagoon, in the province of Córdoba; and in the
Patagonia, the San Antonio Bay, the Río Gallegos Estuary and
the Atlantic Coast of Tierra del Fuego. Among the Argentine
species, you will be able to see the unique the big rhea, the
heaviest bird in America; the condor, with the largest wings in
the world, reaching almost three meters (10 feet) in length; the
Magellanic woodpecker, an exponent of bigger-sized woodpecker
species; and the hooded grebe, an endemic species discovered
during the 1970’s. And you can also find near 70 species of
daytime birds of prey, 40 of hummingbirds (as beautiful as
likeable), 30 of wood peckers, and 20 of owls.
the world.
Long-tailed Meadowlark (56)
::46::
::47::
FEEL PASSION TO THE FULLEST
In Argentina, in addition to places of stunning natural beauty there are irresistible options
Authentic Argentina
involving the most typical features of the country: the people, history, tradition, cultures,
beliefs and knowledge. Tourist attractions that intensify your emotions through amazing
and moving settings where you can live to the fullest the best of cultural, religious,
community, educational, well-being, rural and urban tourism.
Here, where passion awakens, you can celebrate faith in large, colorful and popular
festivals and religious festivities. You can practice sports such as soccer and polo. You
can discover nature, from water paradises to heritage sites.
And you wonder at authentic Argentine design pieces to the rhythm of tango music.
Puerto Pirámides, Chubut (57)
::48::
::49::
Cultural Tourism
Religious tourism
Güemes Parade, Salta (58))
A world of emotions
Argentina opens its doors to a wide array of traditions, knowledge, beliefs and customs, which
will enchant and move you. In Buenos Aires, Córdoba, Cuyo, the Litoral, the Norte, and Patagonia, you can become part of our amazing cultural diversity.
Religious faith and spirituality are essential aspects of Argentine
popular culture. As a result of the development through time of
native inhabitants’ beliefs, plus the devotion of different migratory
movements, the country displays a great multiplicity of creeds.
While Catholicism is the most popular religion, you can observe a
strong popular religiousness where people adore men, women, and
children who they believe to have worked miracles. In addition,
some people also believe in ancestral Inca figures. In Argentina,
you can learn about the mysteries of faith and experience a different
kind of journey with endless religious options (masses, Ways of
the Cross, pilgrimages, congresses, seminars, guided visits, and
outdoor representations), especially during the Holy Week, when
most of the faith expressions take place, and also during the rest
of the year. Both in the city and province of Buenos Aires, you
can visit the most popular sanctuaries in the country, monasteries,
churches (Catholic and Anglican), synagogues and mosques, as
well as Christian and Buddhists temples.
The traditional religious tourism destination is the Basílica de Nuestra
Señora de Luján; and, during the Holy Week, you can visit Tandil,
where a touching Way of the Cross takes place. In Córdoba,
watch the remains of a historical period in a tour full of wisdom
around the Jesuit Block and Ranches, a World Heritage Site. In
Mendoza, La Rioja, San Luis, and San Juan, an intense religious sense
guides the daily life of the people of Cuyo, with the celebration
of Tinkunaco in La Rioja (every December 31) as one of the most
traditional in the region; in Salta, the Lord and Del Milagro Virgin
Celebrations (in September); in Catamarca, the Festivity of Nuestra
Señora del Valle (December 8); and in Mendoza, at the beginning
of the grape harvest, vine workers invite you to participate in the
blessing of fruits before the De la Carrodilla Virgin, patron saint
of vineyards. In the Litoral, people worship the Patron Saint of
Corrientes, the De Itatí Virgin; also, Misiones and Entre Ríos, towns
full of religious joy, will make you feel you are part of their history.
In the south of the country, you can learn about the evangelizing
work of Salesian Fathers; you can be witness of the strong devotion
of Patagonian people for the Beatified Ceferino Namuncurá; and
::50::
Virgen del Valle Cave, Catamarca (59)
you can explore the lower and beautiful valley of the Chubut River to
experience the cultural legacy left by Welsh settlers in its chapels
built in mid-19th century. In the Patagonia, the Holy Week is
celebrated with a Vía Christi (Route of Christ) in the beautiful
city of Junín de los Andes, where you can experience a religious
festivity that combines Catholic tradition with Mapuche customs.
While faith is important all over Argentina, in the Norte region you
will find hundreds of churches and chapels, and a deeply religious
spirit mixing Catholic faith and ancient beliefs. Every temple here,
whether in a major city, a small town, by the side of a road, or up
between the hills, hosts some artistic treasure: gold-leafing in
pulpits and altars, confessional booths and ceilings made of cactus
wood. In the Norte, the tourist attractions of the Holy Week show
you how traditions are the result of the combination of native and
Hispanic expressions. In Tilcara, Jujuy, the celebration of the Holy
Week is so special it has been declared of national interest. During
the same time of the year, in Salta, in the beautiful Calchaquíes
Valleys, you can participate in truly peculiar celebrations, such as the
Burning of Judas. And in Tucumán, you cannot miss the Passion
of Christ the King, a show that takes place in Tafí del Valle,
surrounded by a natural setting that evokes that of the Holy Land.
::51::
Celebrations, festivities and festivals
The numerous national and international celebrations, festivities
and festivals in Argentina reflect the diverse cultural, religious,
production and artistic expressions of the different regions.
These celebrations will definitely enrich your journey.
San Francisco Church, Salta (60)
::52::
The province of Buenos Aires is the center of many traditional
celebrations and festivals linked to the culture of countryside
people, such as the Fiesta de la Tradición (Traditional Festival),
celebrated every November in San Antonio de Areco. In Córdoba,
you can discover the German legacy in the Fiesta Nacional de la
Cerveza (Oktoberfest). In Cuyo, every February people celebrate
culture and history in the Fiesta del Sol (Sun Celebration), in
San Juan; and in Mendoza, in March you can honor the wineproducing industry in the Fiesta de la Vendimia (Grape Harvest
Festival). In the Litoral, you can enjoy the most joyful and
colorful music: dance the chamamé and practice “catch and
release” fishing in the Fiesta Nacional del Dorado (National
Golden Dorado Festival), in the province of Corrientes; in
Misiones, you can learn to prepare a good mate during the first
fifteen days of November in the Fiesta Nacional de la Yerba
Mate (National Yerba Mate Festival). In the Norte, you can become
the star of the most picturesque popular festivities: in January
you can participate in the Copleros Meeting in Purmamarca;
celebrate the independence of Argentina in July during
the Independence Celebration, in Tucumán; in San Fernando
del Valle de Catamarca, whirl a poncho freely in the air together
with baqueanos (guides) in the National Poncho Festival; in
September, have some fun in the National Student Celebration,
in San Salvador de Jujuy; and in Tucumán, enjoy the National
Empanada Festival, in Famaillá. In the Patagonia, every
January you can try the delicious cherries cultivated in Los
Antiguos, province of Santa Cruz, during the National Cherry
Festival; in the National Goat Festival, in Puerto Madryn,
Chubut, do not hesitate to participate in a true countryside
experience with sheep shearing and rodeo shows, and in July have
some fun in Gwyl Glaniad, the Landing Festival; in Río Negro,
during the second two weeks of August, you will be thrilled
by the parades of the National Snow Festival surrounded by
Traditional Festival, San Antonio de Areco, Buenos Aires (61)
Queen of the Grape Harvest Festival, Mendoza (62)
::53::
the snowed mountains of Bariloche; and in Spring, every
September 27, in support of the International Day of Tourism,
you can be part of the Tourism Festival in Comarca Virch Valdés.
Tilcara Carnival, Jujuy (63)
In Argentina, religious festivities gather thousands of believers who
bring moving faith expressions into life. At different times of the year,
each town celebrates the day of their Patron Saint with traditional
festivities, many times filled with a unique religious syncretism. They
also coexist with ancestral celebrations, such as the worship of the
Pachamana, and pagan festivities like the Carnival. In August, the
Argentine north hosts different ceremonies where Mother Earth
is “offered food and drink”. Faith in the Pachamama is the most
popular belief of Andean people, and the main tribute takes place in
Amaicha del Valle, in the province of Tucumán, at the very heart of
the Calchaquíes Valleys during February.
In addition, during this month, in the Humahuaca Ravine –a World
Heritage Site—you can participate in the ancient Carnival celebration:
among carnavalitos and dances, you can taste the chicha, paint
your face white, and crown your head with colorful flowers. In the
Litoral, experience the Carnival in a festivity full of colors and fantasy:
the famous Gualeguaychú Carnival, in Entre Ríos, where dance
fills the streets, the Corsódromo, and the stunning floats. On the
other hand, arts have found the perfect stage and audience in the
city of Buenos Aires.
Coplera, Tucumán (64)
::54::
Tango, literature, cuisine, music, film and theatre can all be found
here. Let yourself be seduced by this unique mixture, where culture
beats to an intense rhythm, and participate in the renowned
international festivals offered by this city. You can be part of the
Tango Dance Festival and the Tango World Championship,
the Independent Film Festival (BAFICI), and the International
Theater Festival of Buenos Aires (FIBA). In Córdoba, get captivated
by the large variety of popular festivals taking place all year to save,
promote and celebrate the most local and typical traditions, for
instance, the National Folklore Festival in Cosquín, and the National
Celebration of Horse Breaking-In and Folklore in Jesús María. And
in the Patagonia, you can receive autumn in your best outfit at the
Festival at the End of the World, a celebration of classical music in
the southernmost city in the world: Ushuaia.
Tango Dance Festival and World Championship, Buenos Aires (65)
::55::
Community Rural Tourism
While traveling through the region of Cuyo, small rural producers
in Jachal, San Juan, and the Huarpe Community in Asunción,
Mendoza, promote organized hiking tours. Also in Mendoza, in San
Carlos, you can learn to prepare delicious dishes of Huarpe cuisine.
And in Uco Valley, you can participate in the trip organized by
Caminos de Altamira, a group of neighbors that invite visitors
to live a rural experience in the very heart of nature.
Along the paths of the Misiones rainforest, in the Litoral, near
the Iguazú National Park –a World Heritage Site–, you can discover
the legacy of mbya ancestors. In the province of Chaco, unveil
the quechua secrets of collective hunting and, also in Formosa,
become familiar with the cultural diversity of the wichi and pilagá
communities. In Entre Ríos, artisan fishermen (Baqueanos del
Río) invite you to sail on boats and live a day in the country among
the islands of the Litoral.
Telar, Norte (66)
Meeting simplicity
Community rural tourism is a practice that allows you to grasp the intangible value and heritage of a live culture.
Through Red Argentina de Turismo Rural Comunitario (Argentine Network of Community Rural Tourism), you learn
about our multicultural country with native and rural populations in the Cuyo, Litoral, Norte and Patagonia regions.
Inland, men and women of this deep Argentina open their doors so you can learn about their lives, share their
culture in beautiful natural settings, and be part of their social and communal economy.
In your trip along the Argentine Norte, with the communities
gathered in the Red Espejos de Sal (Salt Mirror Network), formed
by proud descendants of the kolla people, you will be able to
learn about their millenary Andean culture and the magnificent
landscape of the Puna. And in Salta, you can visit the stunning
Tolar Grande and the magnificent town of Santa Rosa de Tastil.
This province will also thrill you with the genuine experience of
country families in the Calchaquíes Valleys.
In this area, you can live rural customs and visit interesting
archeological sites guided by the members of the Red de
Turismo Campesino (Country Tourism Network). In a singular
trip back to their origins, get familiar with the aboriginal roots
of Tucumán in the impressive sacred city of the Quilmes; and
witness one of the main archeological remains of the Diaguita
culture in the town of El Pichao. In the province of Santiago
del Estero, in the surrounding areas of the Río Hondo Thermal
Springs, a group of families welcome and invite you to join
them in an authentic rural day.
The Mapuche and country communities of the provinces
of Neuquén and Río Negro are waiting for your arrival in
Patagonia. With them, you can visit the Lanín National Park, of
::56::
an impressive natural beauty. Stay at the camp sites of Paraje
Rucachoroi and Ñorquinco, organized by the communities.
Together with the Mapuche Puel community, you can visit the
smallest ski center in the country. Taste traditional rose hip
tea with the country people of the area, and sip homemade
blackberry bush or horsemint liquors, served with pine nuts.
You can walk along araucaria forests with community guides
or interpreters, searching for animal traces and recognizing the
local fauna.
Old Woman, Norte (67)
::57::
Educational Tourism
In addition, Argentine has its own certification, Certificado de
Español, Lengua y Uso (CELU) (Certificate of Spanish Language and
Use) that, through a level test, certifies the level of performance of
a speaker of Spanish as a foreign language, both oral and written,
in social, work-related or academic situations.
Students, Córdoba (68)
Excellence in knowledge
In our continuous learning process, knowledge of other cultures and language training are key to building a wide
and rich educational background. Studying in Argentina, where qualified academic institutions complement
the priceless contribution of surrounding yourself with an ancestral and diverse culture, is a unique opportunity
for your personal growth.
There is nothing better than spending some time in a Spanish-speaking country to learn or improve your
Regardless the course or method chosen to study Spanish, the CELU
certification aims to using the language effectively to be able to interact
with others in a Spanish-speaking community. The CELU measures
students with different mother tongues, from Brazilian Portuguese
to Australian English, from Japanese to Turkish. This certificate,
created and managed by the Consorcio Interuniversitario para
la Evaluación del Español como Lengua Segunda y Extranjera
(Inter-University Consortium for Education and Certification of
Spanish as Second and Foreign Language) (formed by 22 national
universities), is supported by the Argentine Ministry of Education
as well as the Brazilian Ministry of Education, among other countries.
In addition to Argentina, you can also sit for the exam in Brazil,
France and Germany, with regular dates in June and November
of each year.
the southernmost city in the world, is an exciting experience.
Argentina also presents a wide range of higher education options:
from a Spanish class to a career as a chef, from a semester of cultural
exchange in a prestigious university to a technical degree with
wide employment possibilities. Undergraduate courses are short,
no longer than three years, and offer technical degrees with wide
employment possibilities. As regards postgraduate courses, there
is a wide variety of fields, ranging from finances to medicine, and
from sociology to combined arts. In general, there are tuition charges,
but in some universities, you can apply for a scholarship for
foreign students.
Buenos Aires gathers the greatest range of Spanish for foreigners
programs, both in private and public institutions. Among the latter,
we can mention the University of Buenos Aires (UBA), opened in
1821 and one of the most important and prestigious in Latin America.
The National University in province of Córdoba is one of the
oldest in the country and has Spanish programs combined with
volunteering and internship projects. In Cuyo, there are prestigious
institutions, such as the National University of Cuyo.
Studying in the Litoral region is also an excellent option: you can
enjoy the comfort of a big city but living at a slower pace, typical
of the towns located in the provinces.
Spanish. Argentina is a multicultural and varied country and, in addition to its natural and cultural wonders, it
has one of the best educational systems in Latin America, as well as a wide array of prestigious learning centers,
which will assure you excellence in learning the Spanish language. Each region features its own peculiarities and
idioms, making Spanish a live cultural heritage.
::58::
In the Argentine Norte, private institutes and schools with Spanish
learning programs offer you a different option, with courses based
on a strong immersion in Andean culture.
To the south of the country, studying the language in cities like San
Carlos de Bariloche, Neuquén, Viedma, Trelew, and even Ushuaia,
Educational Tourism, Buenos Aires (69)
::59::
Wellness Tourism
(71)
Thermal Spas, Patagonia (72)
Health Tourism
Relax and Spa
Argentina is one of the main destinations for medicinal tourism in
the world. It features top medical centers, equipped with avantgarde technology that ensure accuracy when diagnosing a patient
or performing a surgery. Argentina health professionals are known
for their specialized training, as well as their pleasant manner with
patients. The country also allows visitors to combine their stay
with tours and trips along many interesting tourist attractions.
Argentina invites you to relax in every one of its corners.
Regardless the destination you choose, you have the opportunity to
add a touch of pleasure to you trip by visiting the tourist spas scattered
all along the country. Diving into swimming pools and jacuzzis,
feeling the heat of saunas, taking a Turkish bath or a whirlpool bath,
are just some of the therapies that you can enjoy in Argentina to
feel better, full of energy, and free of stress. Spas also offer many
services, including: massage rooms, facial masks, therapeutic and
body treatments, gymnasium, Reiki and Pilates classes. If you want
to take full advantage of this kind of experience, tourist spas include
accommodation options so that you can stay several days and fully
dive in an experience of complete well-being.
Bariloche, Rio Negro (70)
Take a deep breath, Argentina will take care of you
Wellness tourism in Argentina includes medical treatments in high complexity centers and provided by
excellent health professionals; tourist and urban spas where you can release your tensions; and thermal water
resorts with hot waters that are a source of health, beauty and relaxation. Here you will definitely improve your
life quality.
::60::
In the city of Buenos Aires, you can receive premium medical services
and the best comfort during your hospital stay. And through
Patient Management, you will have personalized and permanent
care, assisting you with all your concerns: approaching the doctor,
logistics for your trip to the country, and complete follow-up of
each surgery or treatment. Fostered by the Argentine Minister
of Tourism and the President of the National Institute of Tourism
Promotion (INPROTUR) and the Exportar Foundation, with the support
of the tourism and health sectors of the national government, the
Argentine Medicine (Medicina Argentina) program is an initiative
that involves the most prestigious hospitals, specialized clinics and
companies devoted to Patient Management, with the purpose of
meeting all your needs when receiving treatment in Argentina.
Thermal Spas
Thermal tourism is ideal both if you are looking for relaxation
and beauty therapies, or if you have a respiratory condition,
a skin disease, motor system disorders, or circulatory and
digestive disorders.
Argentina has about forty thermal resorts scattered in different
regions. Located in large outdoor areas, they combine recreation
::61::
and health in harmony with nature. These centers stand
out not only for the fine properties of its waters (of volcanic,
magmatic or telluric origin), but also for their infrastructure:
lodging, medical service, restaurants, trips and, in most of
the cases, a thermal spa.
The province of Buenos Aires has a great variety of thermal
and thalassotherapy centers. In Córdoba, the Mar Chiquita
Lagoon features healing waters, facilities for thermal baths,
and medical assistance. In Cuyo, all the provinces of the region
have a thermal resource: in Mendoza, between the Wine
Routes and the stunning Andes, you will find the Cacheuta
Thermal Springs; and in the rest of the region, the Santa
Teresita Thermal Waters, in La Rioja; La Laja and Pismanta, in
San Juan; and Balde and San Gerónimo, in San Luis. In
t h e province of Entre Ríos, in the Litoral, you will find the
greatest concentration of thermal parks in the country: in
Federación, Chajarí, Colón, Concordia, Gualeguaychú, La Paz,
María Grande, San José and Villa Elisa. The thermal springs
of Entre Ríos are ideal to enjoy with the whole family. In every
province in the Norte, you will also find thermal centers. In this
case, they are of pre-Hispanic origin: Fiambalá and Tinogasta,
in Catamarca; the Reyes Thermal Springs and the Aguas
Calientes Thermal Complex, in Jujuy; Rosario de la Frontera,
in Salta; and Río Hondo Thermal Springs, in Santiago del
Estero. In the province of Neuquén in Patagonia –among
pehuén tree forests, intense blue lakes, crystal streams formed
by melt water from the Andes, mountains and volcanoes—
hot waters emerge forming excellent thermal parks: at the
foot of a volcano, the Copahue thermal springs; and at the
very heart of Lanín National Park, the Epulafquen or Lahuen
Co thermal springs. An extremely enjoyable experience.
Bariloche, Rio Negro. (74)
Rosario de la Frontera Thermal Springs, Salta (73)
::62::
::63::
Rural Tourism
and cozy inns invite you to taste the delicious local cuisine. In
the Cuyo region, Mendoza offers countryside programs related
to wine production, while La Rioja reveals ancient walnut tree
forests. Here, visitors can stay in inns, rural houses and adobe and
stone cabins.
Up north, in Salta, the kindness and customized attention of rural
families in numerous farms and houses await you; in Jujuy, get into
Andean customs in recycled designer inns and cozy adobe and
stone houses; in Tucumán, the colonial past is still alive in the old
mansions featuring antique furniture and local textile products.
When visiting the Litoral, you’ll be able to see daily countryside
activities in typical rural facilities that are open to tourists. Down
south, in the Patagonia region, there are countless lovely ranches
and rural facilities to enjoy direct contact with nature.
Dreamy little villages
Cattle Herding at a Ranch, Cuyo (76)
Ranches, Córdoba (75)
Stately old ranches
Experience the countryside
Argentina, its history and culture, are closely related to the countryside. That is why here you can experience authentic rural
life. Stately ranches, charming farms, old country houses and lovely small villages invite you to experience rural activities
and customs and a wide variety of traditions.
Argentine ranches are a faithful representation of the local identity:
they are linked to the essence of our national culture and are
one of the most outstanding and innovative alternatives for nonconventional tourism. The European-style old colonial ranch houses
in the middle of the vast Pampa plains, the elegant farms on the
northern hills, the typical rural ranches in the Litoral, and the
pioneer facilities in the arid Patagonia all tell Argentina’s history.
Scattered all along the Argentine territory, these countryside
paradises offer comfortable accommodation options in direct
contact with nature and a wide variety of activities, including
relaxation programs, recreational activities, as well as learning
about rural activities.
In addition to experiencing the hustle and bustle of Argentine
big cities, you can also enjoy the countryside’s quietness in
small rural villages full of history and charm. With several
architectonical and traditional attractions, rural villages that
feature telluric and colonial experiences. Here, you can stay
in old mansions and walk quietly along wide streets lined
with ancient trees; feel the soft breeze caressing your face
and breathe pure air; open your ears and your heart to the
oldest stories about natives, Argentines, and immigrants;
and walk around old train stations, downtown squares
surrounded by buildings that are hundreds of years old,
the old colonial roads and the calm cobblestone streets.
And to celebrate this almost hypnotic trip, try the excellent local
cuisine, including asado, picadas, homemade pasta and game.
In the province of Buenos Aires, the Pampa plains are the gateway
to the land of the gauchos. Here you can visit 19th century rural
facilities as well as old magnificent stately mansions. When touring
the north of the province of Córdoba, the original rural past
comes to life: surrounded by the calm beauty of the High Peaks,
colonial houses dating back to the 19th century, boutique ranches
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Polo
Argentine polo is the best in the world. The Argentine team won
the gold medal in the Paris 1924 and Berlin 1936 Olympic Games,
and has been the undefeated world champion since 1949 up to
this date. Currently, there are more than three thousand
Argentine polo players, including those who have the highest
international handicap. The Argentine Polo League is the most
competitive one worldwide and it is as prestigious as the most
important international tournaments. Argentina polo meets the
most demanding expectations and invites you to attend to the
three highest handicap tournaments in the world: the Tortugas
Country Club Open Championship, the Hurlingham Open Polo
Tournament, and, the most famous one, the Argentine Open Polo
Championship. Visit the province of Buenos Aires, witness the
skills of our jockeys and horses, and discover the culture of the
countryside man.
Polo (77)
Polo is not only a sport but also a cultural activity. In the different
clubs, in the ranches and in the stud farms, participate in clinics,
lessons and matches with the best players in the world.
Feel the argentine passion
Polo is a unique and exclusive game practiced in Argentina. Complex, challenging, and refined, it has always
been one of the typical sports in the country due to the horse and jockey skills it requires. In fact, the expertise
of the man of the Pampas, the Argentine gaucho, has been hard to emulate since the horse has been his
perfect mate for so long.
Glaciar
Perito
Moreno
Palermo Open,
Buenos
Aires
(78)
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Cruise Ships and Sailing
Go for a paddle of fun and surprises in Argentina: after diving
into rivers and lagoons, you can disembark on the shores of
lakes and follow the paths inland to watch the local plants
and animal life; when you’re back on your ship, enjoy from
aboard amazing views of the mountain ranges that surround
you; watch the sunset on the water; and at night, rest in your
cabin to wake up amidst millenary glaciers. In Argentina you’ll
find unique sailing options that appeal to all senses.
Cruise Ship, Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego (79)
Paradise hidden in the waters
The peculiar geography of this region presents a whole universe of waters including calm lagoons, beautiful
lakes, large rives, frozen seas, and millenary glaciers. You can live a deep and exclusive experience in these
natural settings.
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In the Province of Buenos Aires, there is a group of islands called
the Paraná Delta, located on the mouth of the De la Plata River.
Sailing along the Delta you’ll discover the beauty of nature only
a few kilometers away from the national capital city. In the
province of Formosa, at the Pilcomayo River National Park, you
can sail along streams, lagoons, palm savannas, red quebracho
and lapacho trees islets and watch wild subtropical flora and
fauna. In the Patagonia, departing from picturesque ports,
visitors can contemplate amazing landscapes and diverse plants
and animals. Awesome beaches, islands, ranches and woods
challenge you to reach the remote Antarctica. In Río Negro,
there are different tours where you can tour along the Nahuel
Huapi and Mascardi lakes. In Neuquén, the Patagonian lakes
captivate you with their magnificence.
Aboard moder n ships you can discover the Lacar and
Huechulafquen lakes and the shores of Quetrihué. Located at
the foot of the Andes, the Moquehué and Aluminé lakes invite you
to walk along attractive landscapes and practice water sports.
In Chubut, you can navigate in Andean lakes and large rivers; at
Los Alerces National Park you can sail along the Futalaufquén
Lake and the Arrayanes River in a magical setting; and at the
Lake Puelo National Park you can sail up to the border with
Chile to watch the local flora and fauna at its best. In Santa
Cruz, you’ll find the breathtaking Perito Moreno Glacier:
different ships tour the waters of the Argentino Lake from the
Ice Floe Channel until reaching this impressive glacier, one of the
most extraordinary natural wonders of this region. In addition
to this, from the Bahía Túnel Port, El Chaltén, there are ships
sailing to the Viedma Glacier. The city of Ushuaia, in Tierra del
Fuego, is the destination for large cruise ships arriving from all
Tigre, Buenos Aires (80)
around the world to take visitors to the southernmost port in
the world. From this port too, in November and March, depart
cruise ships to the inhospitable landscapes of Antarctica, an
extreme and exciting destination.
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World Heritage Sites
In Buenos Aires, you can breathe tango –the most Argentine of
artistic expressions—while walking along its traditional avenues
and around every corner. In 2009, tango made UNESCO’s Cultural
World Heritage list, in the Intangible Cultural Heritage category.
In Córdoba, you’ll find the Jesuit legacy at the Jesuit Block and the
Jesuit Ranches, illustrating a unique religious, social and economic
experience that is a World Heritage Site since 1984.
In Cuyo, prehistory is alive and combines with nature’s mysteries
to invite you to a unique adventure at the Ischigualasto Provincial
Park (or “Valle de la Luna”, which translates as “Moon Valley”) in
the province of San Juan, and the impressive Talampaya National
Park in La Rioja. Ischigualasto and Talampaya are both World
Heritage Sites since 2000.
Talampaya, La Rioja (81)
Admire the beauties that also belong to you
UNESCO “World Heritage Sites” are places of natural beauty or artistic expression that we should protect and
promote due to their natural or cultural outstanding universal value. In all regions of Argentina there is at least
one world heritage beauty.
In the Litoral, the wild exuberance of the Iguazú National Park
–World Heritage Site since 1984– will awe you with its wonderful
waterfalls. In addition, you will also find another World Heritage
Site (since 1984 too) in the region: the Guaraní Jesuit Missions,
a unique representation of the peculiar coexistence of different peoples.
Up north, you’ll find the Humahuaca Ravine, declared a Cultural
Landscape of Humanity in 2003, a wonderful landscape surrounded
by colorful mountains and inhabited by truly nice and kind people.
This magical Ravine will fascinate you. Towards the south, the
Patagonia awaits visitors with its beautiful Valdés Peninsula, a nature
sanctuary that is home to the southern right whale (Natural
Monument and World Heritage Site since 1999); the impressive
Los Glaciares National Park (World Heritage Site since 1981),
which features eternal ice blocks for visitors to walk on or sail
along; and the mysterious Hands Cave at the High Pinturas River
(World Heritage Site since 1999).
Santa Catalina Jesuit Ranch, Córdoba (82)
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Urban tourism
Soccer, the passion of millions of fans
Soccer is Argentina’s favorite sport. In this sport, there are 22
players in the field. But, millions support their favorite team from
the stands, watching the game at sports bars, or following the
radio broadcast in any corner of the city. The Argentine team has
been a FIFA World Cup Champion and a Sub-Champion twice
(in 1978 and 1986, and in 1930 and 1990, respectively). They
have won the FIFA U-20 World Cup six times and the Gold Medal
at the 2004 and 2008 Olympics. In the premier league –the
Argentine Soccer Championship, one of the top 5 tournaments
in the world—there are twenty teams. Many remarkable soccer
players were born in Argentina, including all-time favorite,
Diego Armando Maradona.
xoxoxoxxoxoxoxxoxo
Caminito,
Buenos Aires (83)
Charming city lights
Urban tourism is a luxurious way of discovering the best of every city: its culture, cuisine, values, heritage, and night
life. In Argentina, you can walk around and experience the intensity of many big cities such as: Buenos Aires, the
Queen of the De La Plata River; Córdoba, the Erudite City; Rosario, the Bohemian City; and Mendoza, the Gateway
to the Land of Wine.
Some of the typical attractions of these towns include attractive urban landscapes, famous theaters, historical
monuments and museums, renowned restaurants, huge sports stadiums, and cafes open day and night. In Argentine
cities, locals invite you to join them for a soccer match or dance a tango piece; you can breathe culture everywhere;
design inspires you and you fill your suitcases with unforgettable souvenirs bought on irresistible shopping tours.
::72::
countless “milongas” with live orchestras and dancers where you
can learn this sensual dance. A dance that, as no other, connects
intimately, emotionally and physically two bodies and two souls.
Design, between tradition and modernity
Great cities like Buenos Aires are known for setting trends, for
example, in the field of design. Creativity, talent, wit, intelligence
and passion are characteristics unique to Argentine design
that captivate the world through women and men apparel,
jewelry, decorative objects, furniture, contemporary crafts
and textile development.
The two biggest teams are Boca Juniors and River Plate, eternal
rivals in the field. Together, both teams account for more than 70%
of Argentina’s soccer supporters, and they clash in the “Super
Classic” game of the local league. This sports event is one of the 50
most important sports events in the world. Some have described
it as the “most intense sports experience in the world”.
Tango, feeling expressed through dance
A Cultural World Heritage, tango is synonymous with Buenos Aires.
It is a musical expression, a language, a lifestyle, and a sensual
popular dance born in the De La Plata River that conquered
the whole world. In Argentina, tango is a daily experience: at
bars, cafés, tanguerías, museums, bookstores, neighborhood community
clubs and big theaters, tango grabs you by the arm and, boldly,
invites you to dance.
This dance was born at milongas, in the quarters of Buenos Aires
(known as arrabales) as a cultural expression of the massive
immigration –mostly European—that transformed this area during
the last decades of the 19th century.
In Argentina, an important community of musicians, professional
dancers, amateurs, choreographers, composers, lyricists, and
singers embody to this day the culture of tango. Here you’ll find
Young People at a Milonga, Buenos Aires (84)
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In Buenos Aires, declared City of Design by UNESCO and
member of the Creative Cities Network of the Global Alliance
for Cultural Diversity initiative, there are the best designers in
the country. In Palermo –the Argentine Soho—and San Telmo
–a traditional suburb to the south of the city, now invaded
by the best plastic artists and silversmiths in Buenos Aires—
you can walk around a multitude of stores and fairs, and have
the pleasure of watching, admiring and wearing artistic and
innovative pieces. In the provinces, you will find designers who
base their work on original Argentine roots and will dazzle you with
their native designs made with typically Argentine materials.
Woven Textiles, Tucumán (85)
Design, Buenos Aires (86)
Crafts, Salta (87)
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ENJOY A DISPLAY OF FLAVORS
From the heart of its fertile territory and as a direct result of its varied climates
Gourmet Argentina
and ecosystems, Argentina offers you a wide array of flavors and aromas. In this
southern Latin American country, where the natural landscape is always beautiful
and diverse, and where so many cultures coexist, your experience will be linked
to a flavor, a view, a feeling.
In Argentina, you can live a truly gourmet adventure complete with typical, regional,
Argentine and fusion cuisine, as well as traditional and innovative wine production.
From cosmopolitan Buenos Aires to the remote Ushuaia, in the Patagonia,
from the hills of Córdoba to the sunny lands of Cuyo, from the Litoral waters to
the high peaks of the North, you can taste authentic barbecued meats, delicious
cheeses and cold cuts, olives and walnuts, fresh fruits, nuts, spicy meals and ancestral
recipes, river and sea fish, end-of-the-world delicacies and unique sweet treats.
And, you can always make a toast with the best wines in the New World.
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Wine Route, Mendoza (88)
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Wine routes
The first Spanish settlers that arrived in these lands in the 16th
century brought the vine with them to produce the wine used
in churches during mass. As time went by and new waves of
immigrants came to Argentina, mostly from Europe, wine production
diversified to include new vine stocks. Between the 19th and
20th centuries, the table wine production business multiplied in
Argentina, especially in the Cuyo region. In the last decades of
the 20th century, wine production experienced a remarkable
boom: wine producers worked hard to make the most of the
best grapes; they equipped wineries with modern technology
and carefully studied the way to elaborate premium products. As
a result, in the 21st century, Argentine wines are prize-winning
and renowned all around the world.
From the beginning of this century, the wine culture has also
become a charming experience for tourists.
Tupungato, Mendoza (89)
A delight for wine lovers
Argentina has a significant wine culture; a legacy that is now part of its identity as a producing, consuming and
exporting country. More than 400 years of history support a tradition that combines the essence of the old and new
wine-producing worlds.
Enotourism
Wine tourism is a recreational and cultural activity that involves
travelling around wine producing zones, visiting vineyards and
wineries, identifying vine stocks and production methods, tasting
grapes in the field, and discovering the wine world, and very
specially its culture.
Unlike other wine-producing countries, and due to its large extension,
Argentina offers a non-linear wine route to tour and enjoy. Scattered
throughout beautiful wine-producing oases, from the Norte region
to the Patagonia, the Argentine Wine Routes are a totally
sensorial experience in which wine is paired with the beauty of
the landscapes, the magnificent architecture of the wineries, the
warmth of boutique enterprises, and the delicious flavors of local
and gourmet cuisine. There are several stops in the wine route: the
Calchaquí Valleys in Salta and the small villages of Catamarca up in
the Norte region; the provinces of La Rioja, San Juan and Mendoza
in Cuyo, the most characteristic wine-producing area; the hills of
Córdoba; La Pampa, and then Neuquén and Río Negro, featuring
outstanding facilities, and Chubut, a new wine producing area, all
in Patagonia.
Cafayate, Salta (90)
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Every wine-producing paradise offers visitors a different experience.
Nowadays, there are ten provinces in the Wine Route and almost
two hundred establishments open to tourists.
They all weave a special and singular route, abundant in natural beauty,
with flavors and aromas challenging your senses. The richness of
the architecture complements the charm of vineyards, colonial
mansions, antique adobe constructions, or even modern buildings
with innovative designs.
Wine Tasting (91)
Learning about the different processes of wine production and the
magnificence of the vine landscape as it changes with every season
allows visitors to enjoy a unique picture. Contemplating the snowy
vineyard in winter, the ochre hues in the fall, the first vine sprouts in
spring, or the full grown grapes shining under the summer sun all
are one-of-a-kind experiences worth enjoying.
That is why Argentina features a diverse program of activities and
services specially designed for every type of visitor and occasion.
Whether you are an expert traveler of wine routes, an enophile,
a curious adventurer, or new to the world of vine stocks, here you
will find countless options to experience alone, with your partner
or with friends. In this context, wine tourism is much more than a
simple winery tour, since it combines sensorial experiences in every
route and in every season of the year.
Harvest (92)
In all establishments, there are guided tours as well as wine-tasting
classes, wine shops that sell products at special prices, and restaurants
where you can have delicious dishes paired with the best wines of
the place. In addition, there are programs inviting you to take part
in the harvesting, pruning and even the making of your own wine.
You can also take classes of traditional or gourmet cooking, linked
to local cuisine, in the very heart of the vineyards. Finally, you can
tour vines on foot, horse, sulky, bicycle, an antique car, and even a
hot-air balloon.
Glasses (93))
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Given the unique connection between wine and art, more and more
wineries are now offering cultural programs and art exhibitions all
year round. The most traditional ones have their own Wine Museum.
There is also an important array of programs combining enotourism
with other recreational and sports activities, such as golf and polo,
which can be practiced in the lovely vineyard landscape. In some
cases you can even stay in charming boutique hotels with a high
standard of comfort. Some of the most outstanding options are
the ones that merge wine and astronomy, in order to understand
the relationship between the stars and the harvesting; and also the
alluring spa and wine therapy programs. In addition to this, there
are other productive tours, such as the Olive Oil Route and the
Cheese Route.
Catamarca, the Fiambalá Valley, 300 km (186 miles) west of the
capital city, visitors can find the main vine production area. The
wine route also features the stunning beauty of the landscape
and the authenticity of local craftworks, among white towns and
adobe churches.
Located in the center of the country, Córdoba is a province with
many faces, where tourist attractions and production centers coexist.
When it comes to wine, production is focused in the town of
Colonia Caroya, only 48 km (30 miles) away from the capital of the
province. Here, it is very interesting for visitors to become familiar
Wine producing regions
In the Norte region, enotourism is popular mostly in the beautiful
Calchaquí Valleys (provinces of Salta and Catamarca), an ideal
landscape where you can also learn about the captivating history
and legacy of the area. These valleys, located at an average altitude
of 1700 meters (5575 feet) above sea level, represent a major
productive area for “high altitude wines.” Here, amidst colorful
mountains, small wine-producing oases give birth to intense and spirited
beverages, with great strength and unique style. Cafayate, the
major wine-producing city, is where 90% of the vineyards (about
3200 hectares/7900 acres) in Salta are located. Salta is one of the
provinces with the oldest tradition in wine production: many of
the wineries located there date back to the beginning of the 19th
century. There are large facilities with a capacity of more than ten
million liters, as well as very small and family owned companies.
For a complete wine experience, ranches, boutique hotels, inns
and a wine spa offer a broad range of accommodation and
relaxation options.
In Catamarca, a province of high mountains and quiet valleys,
there are about 2200 hectares (5435 acres) of vineyards, but only
a fourth of them produce fine varieties. At an altitude between
1200 and 1750 meters (2965 and 4325 ft) above sea level,
there are small crops, especially of the Malbec, Syrah, Cabernet
Sauvignon, and Bonarda varieties. The wineries here are also
small, although they are equipped with the technology necessary
to produce high quality, fleshy, fruity, and full-bodied wines. In
Catamarca (94)
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with the “regional” wine production. Wines from Colonia Caroya,
those used during mass and regional wines, are different from the
ones obtained in other areas of the country –a combination of
traditional knowledge based on the Jesuits’ contributions in the
16th century and the Italian Friuli methodology brought here by
immigrants—as well as the use of non-traditional grapes, such
as the famous “chinche grape”, all of which results in wines that
represent the local identity and heritage.
In the Cuyo region, the land where wine is born and grapes
find ideal characteristics for their development, 90% of wine
production takes place. Here, visitors can also find the greatest
number of facilities open to tourists with innovative and highquality proposals.
Mendoza is the main wine-producing province in Argentina and,
since July 2005, it has been included among the eight capitals of
wine by the Great Wine Capitals international network. The
province, home to the Malbec variety, has around 150 thousand
hectares (about 350500 acres) cultivated with vine and more than
1200 wineries, which produce 70% of Argentine wines. Here, a
significant number of wineries open for tourism allowing visitors
to enjoy a truly comprehensive tour, including visits to museums,
cellars, country estates, old mansions, and estancias (ranches) in
the middle of the mountains, as well as large-scale and family
wineries. In Mendoza, Wine Routes are divided in four regions:
Center, East, Uco Valley, and South. The Center region is the
First Wine Producing Zone in the country and home to a large
number of wineries, including all kind of establishments: familyowned, boutique, traditional, and new facilities with cutting-edge
technology. The East is the major region, due to the large surface
of vineyards and the volume of production: there are industrial
Chañarmuyo, La Rioja (95)
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wineries that produce the classic table wine, and smaller ones
that create high-quality wines. The Uco Valley is the newest
wine producing area in the province, since its old vineyards were
rediscovered in the recent years by local and foreign investors.
In the South, a typical place for adventure tourism, there are
approximately 80 wineries.
The province of San Juan, arid and windy, is the second largest
wine-producing province in Argentine. Known as the land of the
Syrah variety, it features a particular offer regarding enotourism
so you can visit traditional vineyards, old and modern wineries,
and enjoy authentic wine tastings. San Juan has a long wine
producing tradition; historically, it has been a province dedicated
to table wine production, but for the last ten years, the industry
here has been changing, and experiences today a steady growth
and recognition around the world. The major wine production
areas in the province are the Tulum, Pedernal, Ullum and Zonda
valleys, while the wineries that are part of the Wine Route in San
Juan are located in the outskirts of the City of San Juan. Like those in
Mendoza, these wineries offer you attentive service, high-quality
products, and something else: most of them are still family-owned,
and the owners themselves are there to welcome you. Wine
Routes in San Juan are divided in five regions: North, full of young
and artisan style wineries; South, an exceptionally fertile area
where high technology and organic wineries are located; Center,
the place for older and more traditional urban wineries; East, the
land of technological avant-garde; and West, home to boutique
wineries surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
La Rioja, Kingdom of the Torrontés, combines different sub-regions
for wine production. The main production area extends from the
Famatina Valleys to Villa Union and it has the technology needed
to elaborate top-notch products. In turn, the coast valleys reveal
the magic of artisan production. The traditional winery route, which
extends from the capital city of La Rioja up to Santa Cruz (in the
Castro Barros district), allows visitors to taste artisan wines. There is
a cooperative in Chilecito that accounts for 60% of the provincial
production. Here, the Torrontés Riojano variety holds 40% of the
8000 hectares (20000 acres) of vine cultivated land. It is used to
elaborate sparkling wines of outstanding features and quality.
Chañarmuyo, La Rioja (96)
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In Patagonia, the southernmost region in Argentina and also in
the continent, there is a new generation of wine producers. It is
considered one of the most promising areas for premium wine
production, especially the Pinot Noir and Merlot varieties, in fertile
lands located around Parallel 39° South (Neuquén and Río Negro.)
Neuquén is one of the youngest wine-producing provinces in
the country but also one with great potential. The grapes grown
here are highly concentrated and have excellent organoleptic
characteristics, resulting in wines of good quality, with a remarkable
acidity, excellent color, and suitable for aging. Located about 70
km (43 miles) from the capital city, the wineries that comprise this
tourist route are modern, with avant-garde designs and state-ofthe-art technology. The wine-production pole, complemented by
first-rate restaurants, hotels and spas, is surrounded by prehistoric
sites where dinosaur fossils abound. And that is why in this
route you can combine wine and dinosaurs. Wine production
in Río Negro is focused in the Alto Valle del Río Negro, one of
the most prosperous valleys in Argentina, known for its fine fruit
production. For this reason, the wine tour is usually combined
with visits to fruit production facilities.
In the province of Chubut, in Patagonia, there is a wine producing
valley located at Parallel 42°, in El Hoyo de Epuyén, where you can
try the southernmost wines in the world.
Vineyards, Mendoza (97)
The National Grape Harvest Festival
The National Grape Harvest Festival is one of the most important
events in the province of Mendoza, attracting visitors from
all around the world. It starts with the blessing of the fruit
(whose patron saint is the Carrodilla Virgin) and the “Via
Blanca de las reinas”, a parade of beautiful women, each of
them representing the different districts of Mendoza, around
the downtown area of the capital city. It finishes surrounded
by the hills, in the Fray Romero Day Greek Theater, with a
fantastic show more than 30 mil spectators enjoy every year.
Vineyards, Mendoza (98)
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Gastronomy
In every destination in the country you will find delicious and aromatic
dishes. Argentina offers diversity in gastronomy too. Argentine flavors
symbolize and reflect the history of the country. In this southern
country, Italian, Spanish and local cuisine combine to create delicious
dishes, that can please even the most demanding palates
.
Recipes that also take advantage of the wide variety of products
this rich and diverse land options. In every region of the country,
men and women have synthesized in delicious meals their culture
and the fruit that nature provides them. Besides the world-famous
Argentine beef, the cold cuts produced in the mountains, the
typical yerba mate of the Litoral, the river fish, the tasty northern
empanadas, the luxurious culinary delicacies of the Patagonia and
the irresistible dulce de leche, there are also local ingredients and
recipes, as well as the innovation of the latest gourmet cuisine.
Argentine Beef (99)
Revaluating local cuisine
Argentina offers a wide culinary mosaic to be discovered and fully enjoyed as the country thoroughly revaluates
its local cuisines. Argentine flavors symbolize and reflect the history of the country. Throughout the country,
Likewise, Argentina has one of the best cuisines in the world, with a
wide variety of styles: from local canteens, bars, pizza parlors, steak
houses and pubs, to Litoral restaurants and boutique restaurants
that serve the finest of dishes.
In this southern country, food is always a good excuse for a gathering.
Some very Argentine traditions revolve around food and include
sharing family meals, meeting with friends, drinking mate, competing
to see who makes the best asado (who then will receive applause),
having gnocchi on the 29th of each month, and the typical Christmas
and New Year’s feasts.
Food (100)
people in each region have translated part of their culture and of what nature has offered them into tasty regional
dishes. Besides the world-famous Argentine beef, the empanadas, yerba mate and dulce de leche, there are also
prized ingredients and fresh produce from all regions. A one-of-a-kind menu where you can find unique culinary
gems at each destination.
Many of these culinary customs can be seen throughout the country
and are essential to the Argentine identity. However, there also are
some recipes associated to local produce, to celebrate the natural
characteristics of each region and elaborate dishes that are a symbol
of their uniqueness.
Local flavors and aromas
In the city of Buenos Aires, a refined, world-class and award-winning cuisine captivates you immediately. Here you’ll find a fusion of
Italian, Jewish, Armenian and Turkish delicacies. For a long period
of time, major urban areas like Buenos Aires received waves of im-
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Cuaresmillos (101)
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migrants coming from all over the world, especially from Europe,
and mainly from Italy and Spain, and also from the Middle East.
This clash of cultures enriched the great culinary heritage of the
city. In bars and pizza parlors –both in the city center and in the suburbs—visitors can taste the authentic porteña pizza and help yourself to a milanesa sandwich. Argentine pizza –whether “al molde”
(thick crust) or “a la piedra” (thin crust), with mozzarella cheese,
fugazzeta (cheese and onions), or even with vegetables—is really
worth trying. It is said that what makes it unique is the mixture between Italian and Spanish culture. At the end of the 19th century,
the Neapolitans and the Genovese opened the first pizza parlors,
but later on, the Spaniards began to run them. When visiting this
magnificent and always surprising Buenos Aires, don not miss the
5 star menus offered by the most sophisticated restaurants.
In the Pampa plains, you can discover the land of the gauchos by
trying an emblematic dish: beef asado, prepared on a grill or on
an iron cross, or roasted with the hide on. A must for those with
a sweet tooth is the alfajor, a gem of local confectionery, which
features one of Argentine stars: dulce de leche. In addition to this,
the countryside provides great options of home-made dishes, and,
in the afternoon, help yourself to some mate with pastelitos (deepfried pastries, usually filled with quince or sweet potato jam), and
tortas fritas (deep-fried pastry, similar to the French beignets).
The province of Buenos Aires also features little towns where local
and foreign customs have mixed together until they are almost
blended into one. Excellent cheeses are produced to the south, in
the hill area. Also, there are farms where chickens are bred using
natural techniques and where an endless selection of vegetables
is grown, something that clearly pays tribute to Argentina’s history
as a farming and cattle raising country. On the other hand, the
Buenos Aires shore offers a renowned culinary alternative: seafood
and different fish, always fresh.
In the heart of the country, visit the province of Córdoba and discover the tender grilled goat meat; taste the artisan salami, cold
cuts and cheeses made in Colonia Caroya, and discover the influence of German cuisine in the local restaurants of Villa General
Belgrano. When visiting Caroya, do not miss the exclusive frambúa
grape wine.
In Córdoba, food production plays an essential role in the local
economy, with regional cheeses and cold cuts, jams and pickles,
and beers and wines. Córdoba is also famous for a drink that is
very popular all over Argentina, but is consumed in significantly high-
er amounts in this province: Fernet. It is a type of bitter drink made
from natural herbs and alcohol. Fernet goes very well with the
popular picadas. Discover all the charm and food options Cordoba
has to offer in the different tours specially prepared to welcome
and delight you: the Cold Cuts and Cheese Route, the Goat Route,
the Fruit Growing and Horticulture Route, and the Olive Route.
The Cuyo region, land of wine and the best olive trees, surprises
visitors with delicious dried fruits and cider, a local specialty. You
should definitely also try the tender roasted goat, in this beautiful
area of mountains and snowy peaks.
Cuyo’s cuisine includes local produce and fully represents the spirit
of the country life, whether the dishes are modestly made in rural
establishments or prepared by top chefs who create interesting
modern entrees in beautiful boutique restaurants.
In the Litoral, a land of mighty rivers, help yourself to the most delicious fish served with typical Guaraní sides, and discover Argentine
customs by following the Yerba Mate Route. Due to the huge river
affluence, fishing is one of the backbones of the Litoral’s economy,
and this reflects in the eating habits of the local population: people
can enjoy a wide variety of fish, prepared in different, delicious
ways. In this land of bright rivers and deep jungles, you can follow
the Yerba Mate Route. In the provinces of Corrientes and Misiones, yerba mate producing facilities let you explore the productive
aspects of the most popular beverage among Argentineans: mate.
The Norte region is a land of traditions, also, in recipes that are an
essential part of their people and who have been passed down
from generation to generation: tasty locros, tamales and humitas
are made in clay ovens. In this region, food shows a legacy closely
related to Andean-Inca tradition: Northern dishes almost always
include potatoes and corn, as well as quinoa, peppers, pumpkin,
and tomatoes. A must you should taste here: the incomparable
meat and ground corn empanadas from Salta and Tucumán, as
well as the goat cheeses produced in Tafí del Valle. Visiting regional cheese producing facilities is another option offered in various
northern valleys in Argentina. There you can taste the assortment
of cheese varieties and learn about the process of artisan production.
Typical asado (103)
Asado (102)
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Towards the south of Argentina, in the Patagonia, where cuisine is
characterized by German, Swiss and Welsh influences, live a luxurious culinary experience: try some trout, salmon bred in hatcheries
and the best smoked meats; sip the youngest wines in the world;
drink artisan beer and try delicious fine fruits, jams, and chocolates. For an unforgettable experience, try the Patagonia lamb barbecues, the prawns, the Chilean seabass, or the spider crab of the
end of the world. Patagonian lamb, a local delicacy known around
the world, is one of the most traditional dishes of this region. Also
delicious are deer and boar meat. Towards the Patagonian coast,
especially on the southern end of the country, sea life is so rich it
opens another door discovering Patagonian flavors: the spider
crab from Tierra del Fuego or the Chilean sea bass are two exceptional delicacies. Handmade chocolates are definitely worth mentioning. Among the local gems, we can highlight chocolate coated
cherries and berries in chocolate soup. The Argentine South offers
the chance to combine unique products, either in high-end cuisine
or in homemade dishes, always resulting in delicacies that are not
easily forgotten.
Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego (104)
Patagonian Lamb (106)
Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego (105)
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WELCOME TO ACTION
For those travelers who wake up every day thinking of a new destination to discover,
Active Argentina
for those whose backpack accompanies them in all their adventures, and for those who
love strong emotions, Argentina is a land of challenges.
In Argentina, you can practice all sorts of adventure sports: on land, water, or air, and
always surrounded by luscious and beautiful natural landscapes. You’ll also find some of
the best golf courses in the world. You can enjoy the snow by skiing over wonderful ski
slopes. You can fish in crystal clear waters surrounded by contrasting landscapes.
You can follow a path full of intense experiences from south to north along the legendary
Route 40. And, finally, you can see history come alive aboard tourist trains.
Total Grande - Salta (107)
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Adventure tourism
Adventures in the water
Argentina’s hydrographic characteristics are perfect for any kind
of water sport, including canoeing, rafting, scuba diving, sailing,
windsurfing or kitesurfing.
Rafting, Mendoza (108)
A pure adrenaline rush
Argentina is a huge country where every adventure is a challenge because you can practice trekking, rafting,
kayaking, mountain biking, 4x4, rock climbing and windsurfing in diverse and spectacular landscapes.
Every Argentine region stretches your limits and encourages you to experience new amazing adventures
accompanied by professional guides who know where to find the biggest challenges for you, whether on
water, air, or land, and always in perfect harmony with the environment.
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The vast Atlantic coast, more than 5000 kilometers (3100 miles)
long, has been attracting sailors from all around the world for
centuries. In the city of Buenos Aires, nautical clubs keep naval
tradition in the De La Plata River. On the Buenos Aires shore, there
are cities like Mar del Plata, Pinamar, and Monte Hermoso, which
feature 100 km (62 miles) of beaches to practice windsurfing. In
the Cuyo region (province of Mendoza), the Atuel River Canyon
ensures you will get an adrenaline rush on their rapid waters,
fantastic for rafting, canoeing and water skiing; in the province
of San Juan, the Cuesta del Viento Dam frames an artificial lake
of turquoise waters situated 1250 meters (4100 feet) above
sea level and surrounded by mountains that act as a funnel for
air currents, which in the afternoons create gusts of up to 40
knots. The rivers in the Litoral region are an interesting option
for canoeing. If scuba diving among fish is your thing, then go
to the Corrientes River, where you will be able to see many local
species swimming in the amber waters such as skates, armado
catfish, surubim, pike characins, gold piranha, shad, and silver
horshead. Up North, in the province of Tucuman, the Los Sosa
River is a challenge for experts in rocks, whirlpools and giant
waves, as is the winding course of the Juramento River, in the
province of Salta.
Visitors can also sail along the end of the world Patagonian
waters by canoe or kayak around the Beagle Channel, the Le
Maire Strait or the Cape Horn, in Tierra del Fuego. In this region,
summer is the ideal time for rafting in the National Parks, where
crystal clear rivers feature incredibly fast-flowing waters. In the
province of Chubut you can join tours to see the remains of
mysterious ship wrecks. Submarine parks in the coast of Puerto
Madryn, the national scuba diving capital, let you scuba dive in
constant contact with the fascinating sea fauna of the place.
Another irresistible attraction in the Patagonia is descending 30
meters into the water to observe the Traful Lake Underwater
Kayaking, Villa la Angostura, Neuquén (109)
Scuba Diving, Valdés Península, Chubut (110)
Forest, in Villa Traful (province of Neuquén). Departing from the
Ushuaia Port, you can sail to the De los Estados Island, in the
province of Tierra del Fuego, and live an authentic sailing adventure
amidst the southern winds, which also blow strongly in the
Patagonian lakes of Río Negro and Neuquén, where windsurfing
and kite surfing can be practiced.
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have diverse geographic characteristics and magnificent conditions
for you to feel like a condor in the sky. Hang gliding and triking can
also be practiced in the pre-Andean ranges, for instance, in Cuesta del
Portezuelo, Catamarca, and in Rampa del Morro, La Rioja, and in the
Atlantic shores of the Patagonia, which is full of cliffs.
Other activities, such as sand yachting and kite-buggying, are also
offered in Argentina. Here, three of the best places in the world for
practicing these sports are the beaches of Rada Tilly, in Comodoro
Rivadavia, Chubut; Barreal El Leoncito, in San Juan, and Vientos del
Señor, in La Rioja. If you like parachuting, visit a town called Lobos, the
“National Parachuting Capital”, located only 100 km (62 miles) from
the City of Buenos Aires. Other important parachuting centers are Villa
General Belgrano, in Córdoba; Chilecito and Pocito, in La Rioja and
San Juan, respectively; Villa de Merlo, in the province of San Luis, and
San Martín de los Andes, in Neuquén.
Paragliding, Cabra Corral Dam, Salta (111)
Undoubtedly, an amazing experience is flying in a hot air balloon. In
several towns of the province of Buenos Aires, such as Capilla del Señor,
you can watch life in the ranches from the sky. During the summer, in
Villa Carlos Paz and the Sierras Chicas, tourists can contemplate from
up high the mountains of Cordoba. And in Cuyo, you will fly over the
vineyards.
In the Andean Range, an incredible adventure awaits you: long-time
gliding. In fact, many world records of distance and height have been
beaten here. The Mecca for this activity is Chos Malal, a town located
in the Cordillera del Viento, in the province of Neuquén.
Surfing, Buenos Aires (112)
Windsurfing, Cuesta del Viento, San Juan (113)
Paragliding, hang gliding, parachuting, flying gliders, and riding hot
air balloons: all these you can find in Argentina to fly over fascinating
landscapes such as the hills in Buenos Aires, the high mountains in
Córdoba, the arid lands in La Rioja, the green valleys in Tucumán, and
the snowy peaks in Patagonia.
Paragliding is practiced in several regions such as el Jaire hill, in the
province of Jujuy; the Cabra Corral Dam, in Salta; Loma Bola, in
Tucumán; Tinogasta, in the province of Catamarca; the Famantina
hill, in the province of La Rioja; Traslasierra and La Cumbre, in the
province of Córdoba; the Sierra de la Ventana town, in the province of
Buenos Aires; Villa Traful, in the province of Neuquén; Las Bardas and
Las Grutas, in the province of Río Negro. All this strategic flight sites
Action in the air
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All along Argentina, go zip-lining and enjoy a truly fun activity suitable
for all ages. You can practice it in Cerro Peñas Blancas, in Salta; the
Martial Glacier, in Ushuaia; and Dique Los Molinos, in Córdoba.
Challenges by land
In Argentina, there are many areas suitable for activities such as
trekking, mountaineering, rappelling, horse riding and mountain
biking. Tours such as the Patagonian Ice Field Expedition and
those along the northern lands, allow visitors to appreciate the
great contrasts of this huge country in terms of adventures by land.
Kite-buggy, Vientos del Señor, La Rioja (114)
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Riding a mountain bike you can explore the steepest lands in
Argentina. From Ushuaia to La Quiaca, thousands of kilometers
challenge your bike and your legs, in circuits with different intensity
levels, from the deep Patagonian forests to the colorful mountain
ranges of the Norte region. If you are experienced and fit, you
can choose to follow one of the long-range tours, like the circular
ascending-descending one that departs from Salta and reaches
the Abra del Acay, at 4895 meters (16060 feet), where you will
find countless authentic pre-Columbian villages surrounded by
fantastic landscapes, such as those in Los Cardones National Park.
Another of these circuits starts in El Bolsón, Río Negro, and finishes
in Esquel, Chubut, going through villages like El Hoyo.
The horse, an animal closely related to the rural man and culture in
Argentina, is also a synonym of adventure. Following a guide (or
“baqueano”), join in tours several days long around the Andes;
watch cattle herding the way gauchos do it; and walk around the
semiarid Andes in Salta, San Juan, Mendoza and Neuquén.
Horse Riding in Cordillera Ansilta, San Juan (115)
Trekking is an interesting and exciting adventure. You will feel the
vertigo of walking with crampons on the Perito Moreno Glacier in
the province of Santa Cruz; explore the thousands of hectares of
open air salt flats of Salinas Grandes, in Salta and Jujy; climb
the colorful northern hills of the Calchaquí Valleys in the Norte
Region; walk about the Andean National Parks in the Patagonia;
hike in extreme conditions in the Continental Patagonian Ice Cap;
follow the countless paths of the Aconcagua or Tupungato mountains
in Mendoza and visit Chaltén, the “National Trekking Capital”.
Rappeling, Córdoba (116)
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For demanding mountaineers, Argentina presents several options.
You can practice any of the mountaineering disciplines such as climbing
–on rock or ice–, rappelling, canyoning or ski-mountaineering
in some of the highest peaks in the Americas: the Nevado de
Cachi, in Salta, at 6380 meters (20932 feet); Mount Aconcagua, in
Mendoza, at 6959 meters (22831 feet); the Champaquí, in Córdoba,
at 2790 meters (9153 feet); the Lanín Volcano, in Neuquén, at 3776
meters (12388 feet); the Tronador, in Río Negro, at 3491 meters
(11453 feet); the Torre, at 3728 meters (12231 feet), and the Fitz
Roy, at 3375 meters (11073 feet), both in Santa Cruz.
4x4 vehicles give you the possibility of reaching inhospitable
villages such as Tolar Grande in Salta, the Misiones rainforest,
and the Patagonian plateau. The Iguazú National Park –World
Heritage Site– is perfect for this activity since tours are combined
with photo safaris where you can see the diverse and wonderful
plants and animal life. A real challenge for vehicles are the Dunes
of Nihuil, in San Rafael, Mendoza, one of the most exciting stages
of the Dakar Rally Argentina-Chile.
If you want to put your love for extreme experiences to the test,
all you have to do is slide on massive sand dunes. Sandboarding
is a fun discipline to be enjoyed in several regions of the country,
from the beaches in the province of Buenos Aires to the isolated
villages of Jujuy (Abra Pampa) or Catamarca (Tinogasta).
4x4, San Juan (117)
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Golf
In the city of Buenos Aires and the most exclusive surrounding
areas there are beautiful and manicured golf clubs. You can also
play golf in the major cities on the Atlantic Coast, the province of
Córdoba, and the Patagonian region, surrounded by spectacular
views of the ocean, the hills or the Andes. In the courses located
in the regions of Cuyo, Norte and Litoral, play, have fun and get
your best swing.
Estancia de Cafayate Wine & Golf, Cafayate, Salta (118)
Where Golf is a whole different experience
The fantastic Argentine golf courses provide the best options to practice this sport in South America. Whatever
your destination is, in every region of Argentina you will find a course surrounded by beautiful landscapes.
In addition to the pleasure of the game, you will find superb facilities and amazing complementary activities
in the golf resorts of Argentina: delicious local cuisine; modern spas for relaxation; luxurious designer
guestrooms; tours around the Wine Routes; and the possibility of practicing other sports, such as tennis and
recreational fishing.
In Argentina, most golf courses are concentrated around the city of
Buenos Aires. The most traditional golf courses, such as the Jockey
Club, the Olivos Golf Club, and the Hurlingham Golf Club,
opened their doors during the late 19th Century and the early
20th Century. Today, in addition to these traditional clubs there
is a wide variety of American style courses like the Pilar Golf
Club, the Nordelta Golf Club, and the Buenos Aires Golf Club. If
you prefer playing at the seaside, the courses in the Altantic
Coast in the province of Buenos Aires are your best option. In
Mar del Plata, the Mar Del Plata Golf Club, called the “Cathedral
of Golf” awaits; in Pinamar, Cariló, and Miramar you can also
play in excellent courses. Towards the south of the province, the
towns of Tandil and Sierra de la Ventana offer three challenging
courses with wide greens and surprising slopes. The San Andrés
Golf Club, opened in 1885, is the oldest course in the country
and the one that hosted the Argentine Golf Open in more occasions.
In Córdoba, the province where two of today’s best Argentine
golf players were born (Eduardo Romero and Ángel Cabrera)
there are first-rate courses. The Córdoba Golf Club, in Villa Allende,
is a golf course that ranks among the best in South America. In
addition to this, in the Sierras Chicas of Córdoba you can enjoy
some of the best weather to play golf in Argentina.
Both in Cuyo and Patagonia, you can play against the backdrop
of the beautiful and impressive Andes.
In the province of Mendoza, you can play golf in courses located
in the heart of vineyards. The courses’ quality and the caddies’
professionalism provide added value in the Litoral region.
In the province of Santa Fe there are many famous courses
with narrow fairways and demanding greens, such as the
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Golf at Las Yungas Country, Tucumán (119)
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Jockey Club Rosario, which shows one of the oldest and most
traditional courses in the country: the Golf Open . In Salta, there
are two high level courses, one of which is located at the highest
altitude in the country. Although Tucuman is the province of the
Norte where this sport developed the most. Here, there are five
renowned courses, including the Jockey Club, in Yerba Buena.
However, there is a lot more than golf here. In the Patagonia,
you can contemplate the beautiful natural landscapes, since
Patagonian golf courses are located along wonderful pre-Andean
villages, on the shores of large rivers or crystal clear lakes that
reflect the mountain range. In this region, the most important
courses are located near San Carlos de Bariloche, in the province
of Río Negro.
Club Dormy House & Links Miramar, Province of Buenos Aires (120)
Arelauquen Golf & Country Club, Bariloche, Río Negro (122)
Jockey Club, City of Buenos Aires (121)
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Snow
“Cerro Catedral”, Bariloche, Río Negro (123)
A white universe as far as the eye can see
Penitentes, Mendoza (124)
In the province of Mendoza, in the Las Heras district, in the middle
of the Andes, there is a winter resort called Penintentes. Located
at 2580 meters (8465 feet) above the sea level, very close to the
foot of the Aconcagua and only 170 km (104 miles) away from
the city of Mendoza, this resort offers 28 ski slopes, many of which
have been certified by the International Ski Federation (FIS).
The Andes is one of the most impressive places in the world for practicing snow sports. Every winter, thousands
of ski and snowboard lovers come to the high Andean mountains to put their passion for risk and speed to
the test. The most important winter centers in Argentina have modern infrastructure, excellent ski slopes and
wonderful landscapes for visitors to practice their favorite snow sport.
Mendoza is also proud of Las Leñas, a paradise of natural and
artificial snow of remarkable quality, located at 2240 meters (7349
feet) above sea level; it is the highest ski center in Argentina. It
features 29 ski and snowboard slopes for all levels and the largest
freestyle park in South America.
Las Leñas, Mendoza (125)
The province of Neuquén hosts the Copahue volcano and lake,
the perfect setting for a beautiful winter center that combines nature,
ski and relaxation. Here, waterfalls and forests full of pehuén trees
surround the 20 ski slopes. Also in Neuquén there are two of the most
impressive resorts in Argentina: Chapelco, a unique place due to
the amazing views to the Lácar Lake and the Lanín Volcano, and
the high quality of its snow. Located at 1980 meters (6496 feet),
it has more than 30 ski slopes with different difficulty levels. And
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only ten minutes away from Villa La Angostura, you will find the
exclusive Cerro Bayo, with excellent ski and entertainment options,
and 23 slopes along 6 km (4 miles) of continuous descent.
Cerro Catedral, Argentina’s first ski resort, is located 19 km (12 miles)
away from San Carlos de Bariloche, in the province of Río Negro.
Located in the middle of the Nahuel Huapi National Park, this resort
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features 47 slopes surrounded by strikingly beautiful lakes and
forests. It is internationally known for being the most developed
winter complex in South America, as well as for having one of the
largest ski surfaces in the continent: 600 hectares (1483 acres) of snow
and 120 km (75 miles) of slopes. Many exciting international
tournaments and amusing snow festivals are held in this resort,
such as the traditional “Bajada con Antorchas”, where skiers swoop
down the slopes bearing torches in the evening.
In the province of Chubut, La Hoya challenges you with its 24
slopes, 14 km (9 miles) suitable for skiing, and a vertical drop of
725 meters (2379 feet). At the end of the world, in Tierra del Fuego,
Cerro Castor is the perfect option if you enjoy extreme emotions.
Due to its latitude, it concentrates the best snow quality in the
country and in the region. It covers 600 hectares (1483 acres)
suitable for skiing and 25 slopes with different difficulty levels.
La Hoya, Esquel, Chubut (126)
Tierra del Fuego (128)
Caviahue, Neuquén (127)
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Fishing
The lagoons of the Pampa plains, located in the province of Buenos
Aires and to the South of the provinces of Santa Fe and Córdoba,
are similar to the river litoral area. The Salado River basin, the
southernmost tributary of the De La Plata River, is a gateway and
home to species of the neotropical or brasilic ichthyofauna, an
amphibious fish that lives in the basin. In Córdoba, the Mar Chiquita
lagoon is the largest lentic body of water in the country. It has
an approximate surface of 2000 square kilometers (772 square
miles) and is home to salmonids.
In the Cuyo region, action awaits you in the Diamante, Atuel,
Tunuyán, Mendoza, and San Juan Rivers. They all present variable
water levels because of the scarce vegetation. If you are a fan
of fly fishing, this area will delight you: 4000 km (2485 miles)
of watercourses, with extremely beautiful landscapes featuring
different salmonid species, as well as dammed up rivers where
different recreational fishing species have been introduced.
Recreational Fishing, Patagonia (129)
Exceptional waters for fishing
The water bodies in Argentina are ideal for recreational fishing, with more than 5000 km (3107 miles) of sea coast,
Pampean lagoons, mighty rivers in the Litoral, streams in the Andes, and several reservoirs throughout the country.
The Parano-Platense Basin is home to big fish like the Golden Dorado, the surubim catfish, the silverside and the
tahira. The hills in the center region hold significant quantities of fish. In the puna in Cuyo, you can fish trout at
4000 meters (13123 feet) surrounded by wonderful landscapes. The lakes and rivers in the Patagonia are the
habitat of several salmonids. They definitely pose a challenge for those who like fly fishing, spinning and trolling.
The system that forms the Parano-Platense hydrographic basin is
the third largest in the world and the second largest in the Americas,
following the Amazon. Its main rivers meet and form the great De
La Plata River. Many of these rivers collect the waters of large still
water systems, like the swamps in the north of Formosa, the
watercourses of Paraná Medio and Inferior, and the marshlands
of the Iberá Marshes. This geography generates a large number
of prey-predator relationships that give way to various survival
strategies and skills in an extremely hostile environment. The
challenging fish of this area are large, muscular, very fast and
have big teeth.
Brown Trout Released (130)
area is internationally known for the quality of the salmonids
that live in the water. You will find many different species here,
including rainbow, brown and brook trouts; salmon in the Los
Alerces National Park Basin and the Traful Lake; lake trouts in the
Argentino and Burmeister Lakes; Pacific salmon and, if you are
lucky, also Atlantic salmon, in Puelo Lake. Also worth mentioning
is the fishing at the Grande River in Tierra del Fuego, where
many world fishing records for brown trout have been beaten.
In the north region, visitors can fish trout or Golden Dorados in
streams, more than 4000 meters (13123 feet) above the sea level,
in high valleys surrounded by mountains with peaks as high as
5500 m (18044 ft). In many of these valleys you can fish very
different species, such as trout and Golden Dorados, found only
a few kilometers apart, even in different areas of the same rivers.
Patagonia seduces you with its countless lakes of clear water,
linked by wide, fast-flowing rivers that form 18 basins and
flow into the Atlantic Ocean, cutting across the region. This
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Route 40
Lighthouse, Cape Virgenes, Santa Cruz (132)
In Santa Cruz, Route 40 goes along more than 1000 km (321 miles)
from the 0 km at the Cape Virgenes lighthouse, at the east side
of the Strait of Magellan, across the Patagonian desert up to
El Calafate, the prelude to the Perito Moreno Glacier; and it also
invites you to discover the mysteries of the Hands Cave del Alto
Río Pinturas.
Route 40, Patagonia (131)
Secrets and beauty of a magical route
In Chubut, along 600 km (373 miles), you will familiarize yourself
with the Welsh legacy, and visit the Los Alerces and Lago Puelo
National Parks. In Río Negro, Route 40 leads you to the charming
city of San Carlos de Bariloche, a pearl at the shore of the Nahuel
Huapi Lake.
Route 40 is the longest and most incredible route in Argentina. It unites the country from South to North
stretching over 5344 kilometers (3320 miles) from Cabo Vírgenes, Santa Cruz, to La Quiaca, Jujuy. This route
(which passes through three regions –Patagonia, Cuyo, and Norte– and eleven provinces –Santa Cruz, Chubut,
In the Cuyo region, vineyards and wineries are scattered all
along Route 40. And after driving 700 km (435 miles), you reach
Mendoza, from Malargüe. When going through La Payunia
Provincial Reserve, you can enjoy one of the largest lava plains in
the world. Crossing cities such as San Carlos, Tunuyán and Luján de
Cuyo, Route 40 runs parallel to a group of big volcanoes such as the
majestic Tupungato (6800 meters / 22310 feet high). In San Juan,
the route takes you to the Tulum Valley, where you can visit artisan
and cutting-edge wineries. In Rodeo, the Cuesta de los Vientos
dam awaits you: one of the best places in the world to practice
windsurf and kitesurf, with more than 300 windy days a year when
the winds are over 20 knots. Another must-see in San Juan is the
Río Negro, Neuquén, Mendoza, San Juan, La Rioja, Catamarca, Tucumán, Salta, and Jujuy) is quite impressive: it
rises up to 5000 meters (16404 feet) above sea level, crosses 236 bridges, touches 13 major lakes and salt mines,
goes over 18 major rivers, is the access to 20 reserves and National Parks, links 27 Andean mountain passes
and goes along four World Heritage Sites –the Los Glaciares National Park, the Hands Cave, the Ischigualasto
Provincial Park and the Talampaya National Park, and the Humahuaca Ravine. Along this route, you can discover
a variety of cultures and old traditions, continental ice blocks, ski resorts, hot spring waters, vineyards, production
establishments, rural ranches, charming hotels, and the richest local flora and fauna. It is a magical route that
presents an unforgettable adventure.
::110::
::111::
Ischigualasto Provincial Park, also known as Valle de la Luna (Moon
Valley), one of the most important paleontological sites in the world,
which was declared World Heritage Site along with the Talampaya
National Park, in La Rioja. In the province of La Rioja, a village called
Villa Unión leads you to the Laguna Brava Reserve, an amazing
body of water that is home to Andean flamingos, condors, guanacos
and vicuñas. Continuing on Route 40, you can travel along cliffs
and mountain ledges over Cuesta de Miranda. In this area, there
are little villages where time seems to have stopped.
Up in the Norte region, Route 40 crosses farming areas, volcanoes,
ruins, and ravines, where you can discover ancient traditions and
see the indigenous and Spanish influence.
In Catamarca, Cuesta de Zapata is a mountainous road ideal for 4x4
adventures; the huge sand mountains in Dunas de Tatón are perfect
for sandboarding; and the remote villages around the Antofalla Salt Mine,
more than 150 km (93 miles) long and at almost 4000 meters (13123
ft) high, create a unique natural landscape. When arriving to the
De Santa María Valley, you will begin to see the superb Calchaquí
Valleys, one of the most beautiful destinations in Argentina. In
Tucuman, the Route is fantastic for archaeological tourism.
In Jujuy, the section between Agua Caliente de Tuzgle to La Quiaca
crosses little villages such as Sey, Susques, Cusi-Cusi, Santa Catalina,
and Tafna, where you can get to know the authentic local culture
of La Puna.
San Carlos de Bariloche, Río Negro (133)
::112::
Torre and Fitz Roy Mountains, El Chaltén, Santa Cruz (134)
Salinas Grandes, Jujuy y Salta (136)
Los Alerces National Park, Chubut (135)
::113::
Trains
Argentina’s most modern railroad, the Tren de la Costa, travels along
the residential northern suburbs of Greater Buenos Aires, from the Maipú
Station, only a few meters away from the Presidential Residence in
Olivos, up to the Delta Station. Along the charming eleven stations
–Barrancas is the most remarkable one, with its Antiques Fair–, you
can enjoy the traditional English-style architecture of the area. The
journey, along the De La Plata River, is lovely.
Train to the clouds, Salta (137)
A trip to the past
In Argentina, aboard old trains, you can take a trip to the past and learn about railroad stories and legends.
Tourist trains invite you to touch the Northern sky with your hands, go deep into the Misiones rainforest,
enjoy the Litoral landscape in Entre Ríos, travel around the northern suburbs of Buenos Aires, and feel like
a Patagonian pioneer on your way to the south.
In the Litoral region, the unique Ecológico de la Selva Train goes
around the Iguazú National Park –a World Heritage Site–, in the
province of Misiones. The train travels along the Iguazú River and
connects the Visitors Center with the Garganta Station, from which
you can access the incredible Garganta del Diablo, the highest water
fall of the wonderful Iguazú Falls. The Entre Ríos Central Railroad,
established in 1907, connects the cities of Villa Elisa and Caseros,
in the province of Entre Ríos. Along plains and ridges, this train
stretches up to the San Jose Palace, the famous residence of General
Urquiza, which today houses the National History Museum.
The A las Nubes Train is one of the highest in the world. It rides 4200
meters (13780 ft) above sea level and travels around the Andean
landscapes of Salta. It departs from the General Belgrano Station, in
the city of Salta, and travels –round trip– 434 km (270 miles), starting
at 7 AM and until midnight. The journey includes 29 bridges, 21
tunnels, 13 viaducts, 2 loops, and 2 zigzags. The A las Nubes Train
rides so high that you can appreciate the immensity of the Andes and
feel like a condor flying high up in the sky.
Historical Steam Train, San Carlos de Bariloche, Río Negro (138)
The Historical Steam Train, which is 100 years old, takes you back
in time on its authentic English style cars with period seats, tapestry,
bronze tap fittings, ironwork and lampshades. It connects San Carlos
de Bariloche, in Río Negro, with the Perito Moreno-Los Juncos Station,
along 40 km (25 miles) where visitors can discover the Patagonian
steppe and enjoy amazing views of the Nahuel Huapi Lake, the
Ñirihau River, the Los Juncos Lagoon, and the Elefante Hill.
a surprising landscape almost bare of trees and abundant in sheep,
guanacos, and rheas.
The southernmost railroad system, in Tierra del Fuego, is the Del Fin
del Mundo Train –also known as “the inmate train” because it was
built by inmates of the Ushuaia Prison in the early 20th century—
departs from the Fin del Mundo Station and follows an exciting path.
“La Trochita,” The Old Patagonian Express, is one of the icons of the
Patagonia known around the world. A unique train due to its narrow
gage (the distance between the inner side of the rails is only 75 cm
/ 29 inches), it offers a fascinating trip along valleys and plateaus, in
::114::
::115::
A DESTINATION THAT SUITS ALL YOUR NEEDS
In Argentina, quality and hospitality, tradition and modernity, are combined in a wide range
Meeting Industry Argentina
of options including first-class services, technology and infrastructure for organizing and
hosting conferences, fairs, exhibitions, sports events, incentive trips and corporate trips. In
addition to this, the country also offers a number of outstanding cultural and sports activities,
an exciting night-life, amazing and beautiful natural landscapes, delicious local and
gourmet cuisine, the best wines in the world, customized service, and passionate people.
That is why Argentina is the ideal destination for a successful business trip.
Puerto Madero, Buenos Aires (139)
::116::
::117::
Meeting tourism
Hotel, Buenos Aires, Puerto Madero (141)
Dakar 2011 (140)
A High-Quality tourism system
The national government –represented by the National Institute of Tourism Promotion (INPROTUR) in
strategic alliance with the national authority on the subject, the Argentine Association of Congress and
Exhibit Organizers and Providers (AOCA), have created a plan for the Meeting Industry in Argentina. The plan
includes updating the quality of the services provided, and the harmonious growth of the space infrastructure
the industry requires. Additionally, there is an Act that exempts foreigners who participate in conferences,
conventions, and international trade fairs in Argentina from paying the value-added tax (IVA). Also, many
Convention and Visitors Bureaux have been created and professionalized in the different destinations, which
are suitable for organizing international events.
Thousands of visitors from all around the world come to
Argentina every year to attend major regional and global events.
Professionals from fields ranging from politics, economy, industry,
medicine, sports and entertainment gather here all year round, in
different regions.
Located in the southern end of Latin America, Argentina is a
unique place for holding meetings since each of its 25 Meeting
Tourism destinations provide the services, professionals and
infrastructure to meet the highest international demands. There
are 25 different destinations, each with its own characteristics,
but with a common denominator: outstanding service.
Argentina also features a modern infrastructure and transport
system with 58 airports, 23 of which are international airports.
Over 20 airlines offer direct flights to more than 40 destinations
in the five continents. Also, a wide network of roads –more than
38700 km (24047 miles)—and domestic flight connections
allow visitors to quickly travel within Argentina to any place
in the country.
Equipped with state-of-the-art technology, convention and
exhibition centers and conference halls multiply across the main
cities and tourist centers of Argentina. The hotel capacity is also large
::118::
National Grape Harvest Festival, Mendoza (142)
::119::
active Argentina. A country where your stay will be not only be
productive and successful, but also truly unforgettable.
The City of Buenos Aires, capital of the country, is the top of Argentine
city in the world ranking of meeting tourism destinations. The
impressive infrastructural growth the city has experienced over
the last years, together with its highly-trained event organizing
professionals, position Buenos Aires at the top of the ICCA Ranking
as the most important business meeting point in the continent
(2009). As a result, the city hosts many exhibits, conventions,
congresses, trade fairs, and international events for several industries
and on different subjects all year long. In the province of Buenos
Aires there are many remarkable cities such as Mar del Plata, La
Plata, Bahía Blanca, Tigre and Pilar, with high-quality infrastructure
and services and magnificent natural settings on the seaside, near
the river, and combining history, tradition and modernity. Buenos
Aires is a region where business merges with urban passion and
deeply rooted gaucho traditions.
Estadio Único, La Plata (143)
and of an excellent quality. On the other hand, the country has
over 20 convention and visitors bureaux, created to allow for the
organization of any type of event.
Argentina presents a number of destinations suitable for holding
conferences, conventions, fairs, exhibitions and corporate events,
including: the cosmopolitan cities of Buenos Aires and Mar del
Plata, in the province of Buenos Aires; the historical city of
Córdoba, in the province of Córdoba; the wine producing
Mendoza, in the Cuyo region; Rosario and Puerto Iguazó, in the
exuberant Litoral; the traditional San Miguel de Tucumán, and
the attractive province of Salta in the Norte region; and San
Carlos de Bariloche and Ushuaia, in the remote Patagonia.
::120::
Meetings and more…
If you are a business professional, Argentina offers you the facilities
and amenities necessary to turn your trip into a unique, exciting,
pleasant, successful, and fun experience.
In addition to quality, professionalism, and hospitality, as well
as transport, lodging and organization services, all regions
in Argentina offer a wide range of complementary qualified
services for your business trip. Whether in Buenos Aires, Córdoba,
Cuyo, the Litoral, the Norte or Patagonia, your options will be
diverse, surprising, and definitely, irresistible. Art, culture, tango,
folklore, soccer, polo, golf, meat, wines, empanadas, horse
riding, recreational fishing, trekking, skiing, hot springs, cultural
diversity, old secrets, popular celebrations, religious festivities,
music festivals, history, tradition and modernity are combined
in the different proposals of a natural, authentic, gourmet and
always shines, offers hotels, venues and halls suitable for hosting
all kinds of international events. Nowadays, in addition to five star
hotels and venues, meetings and events can be held at the very
heart of the most important wineries in the provinces of Mendoza
and San Juan, surrounded by superb landscapes. In Cuyo, you
can combine business activities with relaxation, while enjoying the
impressive geography. Here, you can practice all sorts of adventure
sports, including skiing in the winter, and hiking around a 70
million years old geological basin, where two outstanding World
Heritage Sites are located: the Talampaya National Park in La Rioja
and the Ischigualasto Provincial Park in San Juan.
The Litoral is a region full of green and mighty waters, and a very
recommendable destination for both business and pleasure. The
area offers a very good infrastructure and excellent connections.
This is, undoubtedly, an added value when choosing a destination
for hosting an event. In the land of yerba mate, you can taste
The province of Córdoba is one of the Argentina’s main financial
centers. With a dynamic economy, its capital city, Córdoba, is the
second largest city in the country. Because of its strategic location,
this city functions as a hub of air and land routes (not only domestic
but also international). Additionally, it is a great tourist destination
due to its past but also to its present, offering many cultural
and recreational activities to enjoy. In addition to having a very
cosmopolitan capital of the province, Córdoba is also famous
for its lovely scenery and its magnificent tourist infrastructure.
Two remarkable attractions here are the Jesuit Block and the
Jesuit Ranches, World Heritage Sites. Córdoba is an ideal place
to combine business and relaxation, since only a few minutes
away from the capital city, visitors can admire and be delighted
by a charming mountain landscape, featuring golf courses and
amazing adventure, cultural and historical tours. Not to mention
the irresistible cheeses, salamis, goat meats and fruit jams you
can find here!
Cuyo is the perfect destination for meetings both if you are part of
an incentive program or if you attend a congress and are traveling
with someone else. This land, where wine is born and the sun
Cocktail Party (144)
::121::
delicious river fish while you share work lunches and dinners, and
you can also discover one of the most impressive natural wonders:
the amazing Iguazú Falls.
The stunning Norte region boasts extreme natural landscapes
–including the wonderful Humahuaca Ravine, a World Heritage
Site—as well as a millenary past that is reflected, among other
things, in its traditions, culture and cuisine. Thanks to its modern
hotels and venues, all very well equipped, and its excellent flight
connections, the success of your meeting here is guaranteed. In
the slow lifestyle typical of Northern villages, you can meet with
your peers from all around the world and attend conferences to
exchange ideas, express yourself, gain knowledge, and make
successful business deals.
Event, Buenos Aires (145)
Welcoming major politic and corporate events, as well as business
and academic conferences, the Argentine Patagonia is an
internationally recognized brand. Very close to the end of the
world, here you will not only find a remarkable infrastructure and hotel
service, but also incredible awe-inspiring landscapes. Protected
areas where visitors can enjoy the best in ecotourism; natural
landscapes perfect for adventure tourism; the best bodies of
water for recreational fishing; the main ski slopes in the region,
and delicious gourmet cuisine, including the amazing Patagonian
lamb, smoked meats, trout, salmon, spider crab, young wines, artisan
beers, fine fruit, and delicious chocolate.
Auditorium (147)
Patagonian Center for Events and Conferences, “Espacio DUAM” (146)
::122::
::123::
WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE TRAVELING
AREA I Argentina has an area of almost 3.8 million
square km (1.07 million square miles). The country is
about 3800 kilometers (2361 miles) long and stretches
from 22º to 55º south latitude.
CAPITAL I City of Buenos Aires.
BOUNDARIES I Argentina limits with: Chile, Bolivia,
Paraguay, Brazil, and Uruguay. (See map)
POLITICAL DIVISION I Argentina is organized in 23
provinces and the Autonomous City of Buenos Aires.
GOVERNMENT I Representative, Republican and Federal,
governed by a National Constitution sanctioned in 1853
and amended in 1860, 1898, 1957, and 1994.
OFFICIAL LANGUAGE I Spanish. Other languages
spoken are English, Portuguese, Italian, and French.
RELIGION I Roman Catholic Apostolic, although there
is freedom of worship.
TIME ZONE I GMT (Greenwich Meridian) -3 hs.
ENERGY I AC, 220/240 volts at 50 cycles.
ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS I Valid passport, with or
without the visa, depending on the case. Refer to the embassy
or consulate.
CLIMATE I Argentina has a great variety of climates.
In general, the climate is moderate. To the north, it
becomes subtropical and, to the south, subpolar.
The summer is very agreeable in the Patagonia
and the Meridional Andes. In winter, the region
is ideal for practicing snow sports. Winter is the
best season to visit the north and litoral regions.
Buenos A ir es and t he r es t of t he c ount r y ar e
magnificent in the fall and spring.
GETTING AROUND
BY AIR
International flights to Argentina arrive at the Ezeiza
“Ministro Pistarini” International Airport, 37 km (23 mi)
away from the city of Buenos Aires. Domestic flights
depart from the Jorge Newbery Airport, 15 minutes
away from downtown Buenos Aires.
POPULATION I 40,091,359 inhabitants.
According to estimated data from the 2010 census, 95%
of the people are Caucasian, mostly of Spanish and
Italian descent, 4.5% are of mixed race, and 0.5% are
pure native people.
CURRENCY AND MEANS OF PAYMENT I The official
currency is the Argentine peso. The American dollar and
the Euro are accepted. Tourists can exchange money in
banks and exchange agencies. The most widely used
credit cards are American Express, Diners, Mastercard
and Visa. Credit cards and traveler checks are not
widely accepted outside the cities and tourist centers.
People can withdraw cash (in Pesos) from any ATM
countrywide.
MAIN ROUTES: Route 40 stretches across the country
from north to south, parallel to the Andes Mountain Range.
Route 3 starts in Buenos Aires and stretches along the
Atlantic coast down to Ushuaia.
Information about the condition of routes: Non-fared
roads: Dirección Nacional de Vialidad (011) 4343-8544.
For toll roads: Órgano de Control de Concesiones
Viales 0800-333-0073.
COMMUNICATIONS I Phone centers are very common
throughout the country (places with phone services
and, generally, Internet). Public phones are used
with coins and cards bought at the phone centers.
Internet is a widely used service in bars and phone
centers.
Av. Santa Fe 883 (C1059ABC) Buenos Aires
Ph.: +5411 - 43122232
www.turismo.gov.ar
National Institute of Tourism Promotion
Paraguay 866 – 4° piso (C1057AAL) Buenos Aires
Ph.: +5411 - 48501400
E-mail: [email protected]
www.argentina.travel
IMPORTANT SHOPPING TIPS
BUSINESS HOURS:
BUS I There are many long-distance buses with special
services. The central bus station of Buenos Aires is located
in the Retiro neighborhood.
Business offices: Generally from 9 AM to 12 PM and from
2 PM to 7 PM.
CHARACTERISTICS: There are mostly asphalted two-way
roads. In the interior of the country, there are gravel roads
and paths, generally in good conditions.
Tourist Information Center:
COUNTRY CODE: +54
BY LAND
TYPES OF ROUTE: There are fare-free routes and toll
routes.
National Department of Tourism
E-mail: [email protected]
COMMUNICATIONS
Banks and exchange agencies: Monday thru Friday from
10 AM to 3 PM.
ROUTES
CONTACTS
Shops: 9-9:30 AM to 7:30-8:30 PM.
In the rest of the country shops may close at noon.
Shopping malls open from 10 AM to 9 PM.
VAT REFUND I At the international airport, it is possible
to get a VAT refund if you have bought national products
for more than $70 (per invoice) at the shops included
within the “Global Refund” system.
YouTube: www.youtube.com/visitarg
Facebook: www.facebook.com/visitarg
Twitter: www.twitter.com/visitarg
www.foursquare.com/visitarg
Photograph Credits
Cover Photos: : National Institute of Tourism Promotion.
Index Photos: Eliseo Miciu, Franco Cappellari – NIKON 2010, Department of Tourism of Mendoza, iStockphoto.
Inside Photos: National Institute of Tourism Promotion (1,12,32,42,48,55,57,68,81,88,103,105,107,108,123,128,136,137,139), Katsuyoshi Tanaka (4) Franco Cappellari
- NIKON 2010 (5,60,66,67), iStockphoto (6,71), Province of Buenos Aires Secretariat of Tourism (7,61,80,112,143), City of Buenos Aires Government, Tourism Information
Center (8), Melito Cerezo (9), National Department of Tourism (10,30,34,43,53,120,122,123,138), Córdoba Tourism Agency (11,13,33, 44,116), Department of Tourism
of Mendoza (14,45,54,62,124,125,142), National Department of Tourism (15,65,69,76,91,121), Antucura (16), Eliseo Miciu (17,37,73,87,111), Iguazú Municipal Tourism
Entity (18,22), Argentine Association of Ecotourism and Adventure Tourism (AAETAV) (20,28,30,35), Secretariat of Tourism of Entre Ríos (21), Joaquin Carrillo (23),
Secretariat of Tourism of Catamarca (24), Tucuman Tourism Entity (25,26,27,119), Pablo Beherán - Secretariat of Tourism of Villa La Angostura (29), Facundo Santana (31),
Córdoba Tourism Agency (33,52,75,82), Microsoft (36), Paolo Petrignani - NIKON 2010 (38,41,79,83,131), Tourism Office of Puerto Deseado (39), Secretariat of Tourism of
Santa Cruz (47,134), Province of Misiones Secretariat of Tourism - Juan Aranda (49,50), (MPTyT) of the Province of Corrientes (51), Salta Secretariat of Tourism and Culture
(58,101), Secretariat of Tourism of Catamarca (59), C. del Águila (60), Alberto Castagnolo (63), Secretariat of Tourism of Tucuman (64,85), Llao Llao Hotel & Resort - Golf
Spa (70,74), Copahue (72), Melito Cerezo (77), Argentine Polo Association (78), Vanda Biffani - Nikon 2010 (84), Bodega O’Fournier (89), Wines of Argentina (92,94),
Bodega Valle Perdido (93), Bodega Chañarmuyo (95), Masters of Food & Wine Argentina (99,100), Subsecretariat of Tourism and Protected Areas of the Province of Chubut
(110,126,135), San Juan Province Secretariat of Tourism (113,114,115), courtesy of La estancia de Cafayate Wine & Golf (118), courtesy of Arelauquen Golf & Country
Club (122), courtesy of Centro de Ski Caviahue (127), Jim Klug (129), Jaime Ríos (130), Jan Zakelj (132), Francisco Bedeschi (133), Maindru photos (140), courtesy of Hotel
Intercontinental de BsAs (144), Expoeventos 2010 (145).

A world of emotions

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