Where to go in Argentina

Located in the province of Santa Cruz and on the shores of Argentina’s biggest lake, Lago Argentino, El Calafate is one of the country’s most-visited destinations. Founded by sheep ranchers in the early 20th century, it is today a gateway for Patagonian adventure and the base for seeing the world-famous Perito Moreno Glacier. The incredible spectacle is one of the biggest freshwater reserves in the world, and at almost 5 kilometres long, it’s the only glacier that is still advancing. But El Calafate is more than just the Perito Moreno, so don’t zoom through just yet. Take a few days to explore what Los Glaciares National Park and Lago Argentino have to offer, from boat excursions and stays at remote and lovely estancias, to hiking and enjoying the wildlife around Lake Nimez. Back downtown, don’t miss out on the Glaciarium museum - and end your visit with a chilled drink in Argentina’s first ice-bar. During your stay, keep your eyes open for the Calafate bushes the city is named after: legend has it that whoever eats the berries from these bushes is guaranteed to return one day!

Awash with a dazzle of European flair, Latin flavour and history-rich culture that enamours travellers from all corners of the globe, Buenos Aries is a joy. Those looking to delve deep into the capital's artsy scene will love to hang out around Palermo Soho or San Telmo, while the ritzy neighbourhood of Recoleta is the place to be for luxury hotels and fine dining. Regardless of where you choose to stay, there’s a million and one things to see and do in the so-called 'Paris of South America' - from popular attractions to little-known gems, a thriving artistic scene to buzzing nightlife...You’ll always be left wanting more. Get your creative fix at MALBA, experience the San Telmo market, visit Evita’s tomb at the famed Recoleta Cemetery, recharge with some empanadas or medialunas, and head out to explore colourful La Boca and dance the night away.

In the foothills of the Andes in the northern-central part of Argentina, Mendoza is the country’s premier wine-producing region and the birthplace of silky-smooth Malbec, famous the world over. With over 1,500 wineries to choose from in the three main wine regions, Uco Valley, Luján de Cuyo, and Maipú Valley, spending your days sipping on world-class grapes is a top activity. But the gorgeous landscapes and endless sunny days provide the perfect setting for other ways of exploring too. The city of Mendoza itself is one of the most peaceful and unique in Argentina, and urban culture vultures will feel right at home amongst the plazas and galleries whilst foodies will enjoy indulging in the regional cuisine - think humitas and traditional roasts followed by some serious dulce de leche goodness. In the great outdoors, choose from horseback riding, hiking, rock-climbing, fly-fishing or whitewater rafting, all whilst taking in the stunning natural surroundings.

There's no mistaking El Chaltén as a mecca for hikers and outdoors lovers. All around town, there are travellers (and locals) donning daypacks, trekking boots and poles, and looking at the surroundings, it’s easy to understand why. Located within the Glaciers National Park, the Patagonian village boasts deep-blue, shimmering lakes encircled by jagged mountains and snow-capped peaks, which couldn't be more ideal for exploring on foot. Among the most famous of the hikes is Laguna Torre and the Cerro Torre viewpoint but the absolute star of El Chaltén is the Laguna de los Tres, an adventurous trail ending in a staggering view of the iconic Mount Fitz Roy, the inspiration for the Patagonia clothing brand’s logo no less. The best part is that almost everyone can conquer the trail - or part of it. And when your leg muscles are crying out for a break, worry not: this gem of a place is a paradise to just lay back and soak in the views.

The charming mountain town of Bariloche is most famous for its breath-taking scenery, and quite rightly so. The so-called 'South American Switzerland' is ringed by enormous azure lakes, snow-kissed mountains, and the gorgeous Nahuel Huapi National Park, home to two million acres of nature in its most raw form. A paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, there are countless opportunities for hiking, trekking, camping and biking. But if you’re not the adventure type, worry not: it’s equally heavenly for just settling back and relaxing. Hop on a cable car to the summit of Cerro Campanario for 360-degree views, or drive the scenic Seven Lakes Route for Insta-worthy vistas. And the cherry on top? Bariloche happens to be Argentina’s chocolate capital - don’t leave without stopping by Mamuschka downtown. You can thank us later.

Nicknamed “The End of the World”, Ushuaia is the southernmost city on earth and the capital of Argentinian Tierra del Fuego, an otherworldly archipelago separated from continental South America by the famous Strait of Magellan. The remote yet welcoming city - once home to a penal colony - is cradled between mountains one side and the icy Beagle Channel to the other, and serves as a base for exploring the dramatic Tierra del Fuego. Ushuaia is a fascinating place in its own right however, and a visit to the local museums, especially Museo Marítimo y Presidio, is a must. Glacier Martial is also accessible from Ushuaia and worth visiting for its views out to the Bay, while the nearby Tierra del Fuego National Park offers varied hiking trails and stunning nature. But of course, no visit to this untamed part of the world is complete without a voyage on the Beagle Channel. Cameras at the ready for mind-blowing views as you cruise around the different islands, loop around the famed Les Eclaireurs lighthouse, and enjoy wildlife sightings. And if a day trip out on the channel doesn’t feel immersive enough, jump aboard a multi-day luxury cruise between Ushuaia and Punta Arenas in Chile.

Legend has it that upon seeing Iguazu Falls, First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt exclaimed, “Poor Niagara!” And whilst Niagara is really quite impressive, just wait until you’re standing before the mind-blowing natural spectacle that is Iguazu Falls. Surrounded by emerald-green rainforest, this UNESCO World Heritage Site sits within a national park right on the border of Argentina and Brazil, and should definitely be on everyone’s bucket list. The collection of over 275 cascades is guaranteed to make you feel humbled, speechless and elated, all at the same time. Wander across the river via wooden walkways and stand at the edge of the famed Devil’s Throat, then embark on a once-in-a-lifetime boat trip; you’ll get absolutely drenched but leave with a smile on your face. For the active, nearby hiking trails offer opportunities for amazing wildlife spotting.

The homelands of ancient Andean empires and one of the most left-alone regions in Argentina, the northwest is entirely enchanting. Salta is its capital and the base for most explorations, but this historic city also boasts one of the finest Incan heritage museums as well as some of the very first Spanish structures built in Argentina - and a permanently convivial atmosphere too. Spend at least one evening on the top of Cerro San Bernardo for fabulous panoramic views over this bright, buzzing city. During the day, meander south through sleepy villages, and explore the hypnotic landscapes from cloud forests to canyons, where weather and time has left behind incredible rock formations (and activities galore). Don't forget to sample the famous Torrontes wine in Cafayate either!

Groundbreaking art galleries, a rollercoaster history and home to the country's oldest university, Córdoba was once dubbed the 'Cultural Capital of the Americas' - and it's not hard to see why as you stroll through the city. For a start, art is handled with the utmost respect, with collections ranging from 19th century works that embody the history of the Córdoban school of painting, to the creations of young and emerging artists. For the history buffs, the Manzana Jesuitica is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and treasure trove of beautiful 17th-century architecture and cathedrals, including the Iglesia Catedral, which took more than 200 years to build. Discover Córdoba's fascinating history at museums dotted throughout the city streets and its darker side at the Museo de la Memoria, where you'll see photographs of people still 'missing' 30 years after Argentina's military dictatorship fell.

On the utterly picturesque drive from Salta, you'll be amazed by the deep, earthy cliffs of the Quedbrada de las Conchas (Shell Gorge), so named for the 15-million-year-old stromatolites and other fossils found in its ravines, crevices and caves. Hop out at well-positioned lookout point to take in the view from the 'sky' and hike across the otherworldly terrain, ogling bizarre formations and ancient 12-foot-tall cardon grande cacti. At your journey's end is Cafayate town, which sits at 5,000 feet above sea level and provides charming walks past artisanal shops, and a visit to the Museum of the Vine and Wine. On that note, if the thought of sipping on Argentina's signature Torrontés wine or horseback rides surrounded by towering terracotta mountains tickles your fancy, then the nearby Calchaqui Valleys is where you need to be.

A chunk of rugged, mostly treeless land reaching into the South Atlantic Ocean, you might be surprised to find that Peninsula Valdes is a haven for wildlife. You just have to turn your eyes to the water! The peninsula is the meeting point of two currents, creating a nutrient-rich habitat for swathes of marine life including multiple whale species. From the craggy cliffs, beaches or bobbing along the coast, you could witness orcas beaching in the hopes of catching a sea lion for lunch, get incredibly close to colonies of elephant seals and Magellanic penguins, and watch southern right whales spouting just off shore. Its waters also hide a number of shipwrecks for fantastic diving excursions. Do a little exploring inland, meandering across the vast steppe and pink salt lakes, and keep a look out for pockets of guanacos, hairy armadillos and lesser rheas, or thousands of nesting seabirds and flamingos in the coastal wetlands.

Touching the borders of Bolivia and Chile, Argentina's northernmost province is saturated with fascinating traditions dating back centuries, as well as rainbow-hued mountains and fantastic hiking trails in the land of the llamas. Your adventures will begin in the capital, San Salvador de Juyjuy, which is rich in history, vibrant markets and locro - a favourite Andean stew, which you could share with a local family. Heading north on the Ruta 9 highway, a road trip is the best way to capture Juyjuy's rugged beauty. Marvel at the pastel red, pink, orange and yellow facades of the Quebrada de Humahuaca mountains, trek across salt flats, and visit pre-Incan ruins, homages to Argentinian freedom fighters, and some of the oldest villages in the country. As you roam from peak to peak, the scenery becomes increasingly heavenly and echoes of history are palpable.

Just when you thought Argentina couldn’t get more dramatic, stark and striking, head to Patagonia and discover a place that captivates mind, body and soul. Ease into things into the north with idyllic days beside pristine lakes, then head south and raise the adventure stakes. Float within touching distance of the only advancing glacier in the world, then trek across the frozen monoliths, ski down snow-capped mountains, and explore the breathtaking surroundings on horseback, kayak and foot. Test your mettle and leg power on the most famous route of all, the Laguna de los Tres, which ends with a view of magnificent Mount Fitz Roy. Your journey through Argentine Patagonia climaxes at the 'End of the World', aka, the whimsical Tierra del Fuego archipelago.

Just before mountains reclaim the north-west of Argentina, Esteros del Iberá is a magnificent splash of wetlands, where the wildlife rivals the lush scenery. One of the largest wetlands in the world, across its 18,000 hectares is a fantastic network of trails to explore on foot, horseback, or idyllic kayak and boat trips. As you can imagine, the birdlife is vivid, beautiful and plentiful (around 350 species have been spotted to date), and includes the roseate spoonbill, jabiru stork and strange-tailed tyrant. This wild and water-logged landscape is also home to scores of capybara, giant anteaters, maned wolves, viscachas, marsh deer, river otters, caimans and chirruping frogs galore.

There are road trips and then there are road trips in Argentina, and the route to Cachi is one of the most spectacular. Take in surreal views of cloud-brushing peaks and lush valleys, from the precipitous journey up the summit of Cuesta del Obispo where the 'King of the Sky' catches thermal winds, to the dreamy Enchanted Valley. The terrain is ever-changing and you can explore numerous landscapes on hikes to Incan remnants, amongst groves of 'candelabra' cacti in the high desert, and into the astonishing Acsibi Caves. Get to know the region and its long-standing traditions in quaint villages on the way to Cachi, where there are overflowing craft markets and intriguing museums to browse.