Planning a trip to Argentina? Whether you’re coming from North America, South America, or halfway across the globe, figuring out how to get around this massive country is one of the most important parts of your itinerary. Argentina is huge—over 2.7 million square miles—and its top attractions are spread out: you might fly from Buenos Aires to Iguazu Falls, take a bus to Mendoza’s wine regions, and rent a car to explore Patagonia’s wilderness. To save you time, money, and headaches, I’ve put together this no-BS guide to Argentina’s transportation system, with all costs in US dollars (based on 2024 exchange rates, roughly 1 USD = 900 Argentine Pesos—always check real-time rates before you go). No fancy jargon, just real tips from someone who’s spent months bouncing around this beautiful country.
International Arrivals: Getting Into Argentina
First things first: how do you actually get to Argentina? The country’s main gateway is Ministro Pistarini International Airport (EZE), also known as Ezeiza, located about 22 miles (35 km) southwest of downtown Buenos Aires. This is where almost all long-haul international flights land—think flights from Miami, New York, Madrid, London, and Sydney. If you’re coming from within South America, you might also fly into Aeroparque Jorge Newbery (AEP), which is much closer to downtown Buenos Aires (just 3 miles/5 km from the city center) and handles shorter domestic and regional flights (to cities like São Paulo, Lima, Santiago, and Montevideo).
For travelers coming from the Americas, here’s what you need to know: Flights from North America are pretty straightforward—major airlines like American Airlines, Delta, and LATAM offer direct flights from Miami, Atlanta, Houston, and New York to Ezeiza. The flight time from Miami to Buenos Aires is around 10 hours, and from New York, it’s about 11-12 hours. Prices vary a lot depending on the season: peak season (December to February, Argentina’s summer) will set you back $800-$1,500 for a round-trip ticket, while off-season (May to September) you can find deals as low as $400-$600 round-trip if you book 2-3 months in advance.
From other South American countries, flights are even more frequent and affordable. LATAM, Aerolíneas Argentinas (Argentina’s national airline), and low-cost carriers like JetSMART and Flybondi offer flights from São Paulo (Brazil), Lima (Peru), Santiago (Chile), and Bogotá (Colombia) to Buenos Aires. A one-way flight from São Paulo to Buenos Aires, for example, costs anywhere from $50-$150, depending on how far in advance you book. Pro tip: If you’re traveling around South America, consider a multi-city flight pass (like LATAM’s Pass) to save money on multiple flights.
Once you land at Ezeiza Airport, getting to downtown Buenos Aires is easy. The most popular options are taxis, ride-sharing apps, and airport shuttles. Taxis are available outside the terminal—look for the official taxi stands (they’re marked with signs) to avoid scams. A taxi from Ezeiza to downtown Buenos Aires (like Recoleta or Palermo) costs around $20-$25, and the ride takes 45 minutes to an hour (depending on traffic). Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Cabify are also available and are usually 10%-20% cheaper than taxis—just make sure you have data or Wi-Fi to request a ride. Airport shuttles (like Manuel Tienda León) are another option—they cost about $15 per person and drop you off at major hotels in downtown Buenos Aires. Avoid unmarked cars offering rides—they’re often more expensive and not always safe.
Domestic Long-Distance Transportation: Getting Around Argentina’s Big Cities
Argentina is massive, so getting from one major city to another can take a long time if you don’t fly. But don’t worry—there are plenty of options, from fast (and pricey) flights to budget-friendly buses that let you see the countryside. Here’s a breakdown of the best ways to get around domestically.
Domestic Flights: The Fastest Way to Cover Long Distances
If you’re short on time, flying is the way to go. Argentina’s domestic flight network is well-developed, with flights connecting Buenos Aires to all major tourist destinations—including Iguazu Falls, El Calafate (Patagonia), Mendoza, Bariloche, and Salta. The main airlines are Aerolíneas Argentinas (the national carrier, which is reliable but sometimes a bit more expensive), Flybondi, and JetSMART (the two main low-cost carriers, which offer cheaper fares but charge extra for things like checked bags and seat selection).
Let’s break down the most popular domestic routes and their costs. Keep in mind that prices are one-way and vary based on booking time—book 1-2 months in advance for the best deals. Also, low-cost carriers often have “flash sales” where you can get tickets for as low as $30-$50 one-way, so keep an eye out for those.
• Buenos Aires to Iguazu Falls (Puerto Iguazú Airport, IGR): This is one of the most popular routes for tourists. A one-way flight with Aerolíneas Argentinas costs $80-$150, while Flybondi and JetSMART often have fares as low as $50-$80 if you book early. The flight time is about 2 hours, which is way faster than taking a bus (which takes over 20 hours). Pro tip: If you’re visiting Iguazu Falls, book a flight that arrives in the morning so you can spend the afternoon exploring the falls.
• Buenos Aires to El Calafate (El Calafate Airport, FTE): El Calafate is the gateway to Perito Moreno Glacier, one of Patagonia’s top attractions. A one-way flight here costs $100-$200 with Aerolíneas Argentinas, and $80-$120 with low-cost carriers. The flight time is about 3 hours. Keep in mind that El Calafate’s airport is small, so baggage claim is quick—you’ll be out of the airport in 10-15 minutes.
• Buenos Aires to Mendoza (Mendoza Airport, MDZ): Mendoza is famous for its wine regions, and a one-way flight here costs $60-$120. The flight time is just 1 hour and 15 minutes, which is perfect if you want to spend a long weekend wine tasting. If you’re traveling with a group, you might even save money by flying instead of taking a bus (since bus tickets for 4 people would cost around $120-$200 total).
• Buenos Aires to Bariloche (San Carlos de Bariloche Airport, BRC): Bariloche is a beautiful mountain town in Patagonia, popular for hiking, skiing, and lake tours. A one-way flight costs $90-$180, with a flight time of about 2.5 hours. Ski season (June to August) is peak time here, so book your flight and accommodation early—prices skyrocket during this time.
A few things to note about domestic flights in Argentina: Low-cost carriers have strict baggage limits—usually 1 carry-on bag (up to 7 kg) for free, and checked bags cost $15-$30 each way. If you’re traveling with a lot of luggage (like hiking gear or winter clothes), factor that into your budget. Also, flights are sometimes delayed—especially during peak season—so leave plenty of time between connecting flights. Finally, make sure you bring your passport to check in—even for domestic flights, airlines require a valid ID (passport for international tourists).
Long-Distance Buses: The Budget-Friendly Option (That’s Actually Comfortable)
If you’re on a budget, or if you want to see more of Argentina’s countryside, long-distance buses are a great option. Contrary to what you might think, Argentina’s buses are clean, comfortable, and often have amenities like Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and reclining seats. Many even have on-board bathrooms and serve snacks or meals on longer routes. The best part? They’re way cheaper than flights—sometimes half the price or less.
First, let’s talk about the different types of buses (called “colectivos” in Argentina, but don’t confuse them with city buses—long-distance buses are usually called “ómnibus”). There are two main classes:
• Semi-cama (Semi-Bed): This is the basic class. The seats recline about 45 degrees, which is comfortable enough for short to medium distances (up to 8 hours). They’re cheaper than cama seats, and most have air conditioning and Wi-Fi (though Wi-Fi can be spotty in rural areas). Perfect if you’re on a tight budget and don’t mind sitting for a few hours.
• Cama (Bed): This is the premium class, and it’s worth every penny for long distances (10 hours or more). The seats recline almost 180 degrees (like a lay-flat bed), and many have leg rests, armrests, and even individual screens. Some buses also serve meals (usually a simple sandwich or pasta) and drinks (coffee, tea, soda) for free. If you’re taking an overnight bus (which is common in Argentina), cama seats will let you sleep comfortably and save you a night’s accommodation cost.
The main long-distance bus companies in Argentina are Via Bariloche (great for routes to Patagonia), Plataforma 10 (popular for routes to Mendoza and Córdoba), Tur Bus (reliable and comfortable), and El Rapido (budget-friendly option). You can book tickets online (through the company’s website or third-party sites like Busbud) or in person at the bus terminal. Pro tip: Book tickets 1-2 weeks in advance for peak season (December-February) and 3-5 days in advance for off-season—buses can sell out quickly, especially overnight ones.
Here are some popular long-distance bus routes and their costs (one-way, cama class unless noted):
• Buenos Aires to Córdoba: Córdoba is Argentina’s second-largest city, known for its colonial architecture and vibrant nightlife. The bus ride takes about 9 hours, and a cama seat costs $30-$50. Semi-cama seats are cheaper, around $20-$30. There are buses leaving every hour or so from Buenos Aires’ Retiro Bus Terminal, so you can easily find a time that works for you.
• Buenos Aires to Mendoza: The bus ride to Mendoza takes about 12 hours, and a cama seat costs $40-$60. Many buses are overnight, so you can leave Buenos Aires in the evening and arrive in Mendoza the next morning, ready to start wine tasting. Some buses even have a “cama suite” option (private seats for two people) for around $80-$100 total.
• Buenos Aires to Bariloche: This is a long ride—about 22 hours—but it’s worth it for the beautiful scenery (you’ll pass through rolling hills, forests, and lakes). A cama seat costs $60-$90, and most buses are overnight. Pro tip: Bring a neck pillow, eye mask, and warm clothes—even in summer, the buses can get cold.
• Buenos Aires to Puerto Iguazú (Iguazu Falls): This is one of the longest bus rides in Argentina—about 24 hours. A cama seat costs $70-$100, and there are only a few buses per day (most are overnight). If you have the time, this is a great way to see the countryside, but if you’re short on time, flying is better.
Bus terminals in Argentina are usually large and well-equipped. The main terminal in Buenos Aires is Retiro Bus Terminal, which is located in the Retiro neighborhood (close to the subway). It has restaurants, cafes, convenience stores, ATMs, and even luggage storage (costs about $5 per day). Other major cities (like Córdoba, Mendoza, and Bariloche) also have modern bus terminals with similar amenities. Pro tip: Arrive at the terminal 30-45 minutes before your bus departs—you’ll need to check in and get your boarding pass, and some terminals are large, so you might need time to find your gate.
Renting a Car: For Flexibility (But Only in Certain Areas)
Renting a car in Argentina is a great option if you want to explore remote areas or take your time visiting small towns. It’s especially popular for trips to Patagonia (where public transportation is limited) and Mendoza’s wine regions (where you can drive from winery to winery at your own pace). But there are some things to keep in mind before you rent a car—Argentina’s roads can be tricky, and driving in Buenos Aires is not for the faint of heart.
First, let’s talk about costs. Renting a car in Argentina is relatively affordable compared to North America or Europe. An economy car (like a Fiat 500 or Volkswagen Polo) costs around $30-$50 per day, plus insurance. Insurance is a must—basic collision damage waiver (CDW) costs about $10-$15 per day, and full insurance (including theft protection) costs $15-$25 per day. You’ll also need to pay for gas—gasoline in Argentina costs about $1 per liter (which is roughly $3.80 per gallon), and diesel is a bit cheaper (around $0.80 per liter).
To rent a car, you’ll need a valid driver’s license from your home country and an international driver’s permit (IDP). Most rental companies require the IDP, so make sure you get one before you leave home (you can get one from your local auto club for around $20-$30). You’ll also need a credit card (debit cards are sometimes accepted, but credit cards are preferred for the security deposit—usually $200-$500, which is refunded when you return the car in good condition).
Now, where to rent a car? Major rental companies like Hertz, Avis, Budget, and Europcar have locations at all major airports (Ezeiza, AEP, IGR, FTE) and in downtown Buenos Aires. There are also local rental companies (like Localiza and Movida) which are often cheaper than the international brands—just make sure you read reviews before booking.
Driving tips for Argentina: First, Buenos Aires is a nightmare to drive in. The traffic is chaotic, the streets are narrow, and parking is hard to find (and expensive). If you’re flying into Buenos Aires, pick up your rental car when you leave the city (e.g., at the airport before a flight to Patagonia) instead of downtown. Second, roads outside of major cities are generally good—most highways are paved and well-maintained. But in remote areas (like parts of Patagonia), some roads are gravel or dirt, so make sure you rent a 4×4 if you’re planning to go off the beaten path. Third, Argentina uses metric units (kilometers, liters), so keep that in mind when driving. Speed limits are usually 120 km/h (75 mph) on highways, 100 km/h (62 mph) on rural roads, and 50 km/h (31 mph) in cities. Fourth, gas stations are common on highways, but in remote areas (like Patagonia), they can be few and far between—fill up your tank whenever you get the chance. Finally, always lock your car and don’t leave valuables inside—car theft is rare, but it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Best areas to rent a car in Argentina: Patagonia (El Calafate, Bariloche, Ushuaia), Mendoza (wine regions), and Salta (to explore the Andes). Worst areas: Buenos Aires (stick to public transport), Iguazu Falls (the falls are easily accessible by bus or taxi from the town).
Local Transportation: Getting Around Argentina’s Cities
Once you’re in a city, getting around is easy—Argentina’s major cities have reliable public transportation, and taxis and ride-sharing apps are readily available. Here’s a breakdown of the best ways to get around in the most popular tourist cities.
Buenos Aires: Subways, Buses, Taxis & More
Buenos Aires is a big city, but its public transportation system is pretty good—especially if you’re staying in the city center (Recoleta, Palermo, Microcentro). Here’s what you need to know:
•Subte (Subway): Buenos Aires has 6 subway lines (marked with different colors) that cover the city center and some surrounding neighborhoods. The subway is fast, cheap, and a great way to avoid traffic. A one-way ticket costs about $0.3, and you can use a SUBE card (Argentina’s universal transit card) to pay. The SUBE card costs $1 to buy and can be recharged at subway stations, convenience stores (like 7-Eleven and Carrefour Express), and some bus stops. The subway runs from 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM on weekdays and Saturdays, and from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM on Sundays and holidays. Pro tip: Avoid the subway during rush hour (7:30-10:00 AM and 5:00-8:00 PM)—it gets extremely crowded, and pickpockets are common.
• City Buses (Colectivos): Buenos Aires has a huge network of city buses—literally thousands of routes—that cover every corner of the city. They’re even cheaper than the subway: a one-way ride costs about $0.2-$0.3 with a SUBE card (cash is not accepted, so make sure you have a SUBE card). The buses are frequent, but they can be confusing if you don’t speak Spanish—most route signs are only in Spanish, and drivers rarely speak English. Pro tip: Use Google Maps to plan your bus route—it will tell you which bus to take, where to get on and off, and how long the ride will take. Also, buses stop only when you wave at them (if you’re waiting at a stop) or press the button (if you’re on the bus and want to get off).
• Taxis: Taxis are everywhere in Buenos Aires, and they’re relatively cheap. The starting fare is about $0.5, and each kilometer costs around $0.8. A ride from downtown Buenos Aires to Palermo, for example, costs about $3-$5, and a ride from downtown to AEP Airport costs about $5-$8. Look for taxis with a yellow license plate and a meter—if the meter isn’t running, ask the driver to turn it on (or get out and find another taxi). Also, avoid taxis that pick you up on the street late at night—stick to official taxi stands or ride-sharing apps.
• Ride-Sharing Apps: Uber and Cabify are both available in Buenos Aires, and they’re often cheaper and safer than taxis. A ride with Uber is usually 10%-20% cheaper than a taxi, and you can pay with your credit card through the app (no need for cash). The app also shows you the driver’s name, photo, and license plate, so you know exactly who you’re riding with. Pro tip: Use Uber Pool or Cabify Pool if you’re traveling alone—you’ll split the cost with other passengers and save even more money.
• Bikes & Scooters: If you want to explore the city at a slower pace, there are plenty of bike and scooter-sharing services in Buenos Aires, like EcoBici (public bike share) and Lime (electric scooters). EcoBici is free with a local ID, but international tourists can rent a bike for about $5 per day. Lime scooters cost about $1 to unlock plus $0.3 per minute—perfect for short trips around Palermo or Recoleta.
Other Cities: Córdoba, Rosario, Bariloche & More
Argentina’s other major cities have smaller but still reliable public transportation systems. Here’s a quick breakdown:
• Córdoba: Córdoba’s public transportation system includes buses and a small subway line (only 1 line, but it covers the city center). Buses are frequent and cheap—$0.2-$0.3 per ride with a SUBE card. The subway is even cheaper ($0.2 per ride) and is a great way to get around the city center. Taxis and Uber are also available, with similar prices to Buenos Aires.
• Rosario: Rosario is a port city on the Paraná River, and its public transportation system is mostly buses. Buses are cheap ($0.2-$0.3 per ride) and cover the entire city. There’s no subway, but taxis and Uber are easy to find. Pro tip: Take a bus along the riverfront for beautiful views of the Paraná River.
• Bariloche: Bariloche is a small mountain town, so most attractions are within walking distance. If you need to go further (like to the airport or nearby lakes), buses are available—$0.5-$1 per ride. Taxis and Uber are also available, but they’re a bit more expensive than in larger cities (a ride from downtown to the airport costs about $10-$15). You can also rent a bike to explore the town and surrounding lakes.
• El Calafate: El Calafate is even smaller than Bariloche—you can walk from one end of town to the other in 15-20 minutes. If you want to go to Perito Moreno Glacier (about 45 minutes from town), most tour companies offer free transportation from downtown. You can also take a bus ($5-$8 per ride) or rent a car.
Unique Transportation Experiences in Argentina
Argentina isn’t just about buses and flights—there are some unique transportation experiences that you won’t want to miss. These are perfect for travelers who want to add a little adventure to their trip and see parts of the country that most tourists don’t.
Tren a las Nubes (Train to the Clouds): A Scenic Ride Through the Andes
The Tren a las Nubes (Train to the Clouds) is one of the most famous train rides in South America, and it’s a must-do for any train enthusiast. The train departs from Salta (a city in northern Argentina) and travels through the Andes Mountains, reaching an altitude of over 13,800 feet (4,200 meters)—one of the highest train routes in the world. The ride takes about 16 hours round-trip (it’s a day trip, leaving Salta early in the morning and returning in the evening), and the scenery is breathtaking—you’ll pass through deserts, canyons, and snow-capped mountains, and cross over dozens of bridges and tunnels.
Tickets for the Tren a las Nubes cost about $150-$200 per person, which includes a guide (who speaks Spanish and English), snacks, and a meal on the train. There are two classes: Tourist Class (which is comfortable and affordable) and Premium Class (which has larger seats, better food, and a private guide). Pro tip: Book your ticket 1-2 months in advance—this train is extremely popular, and tickets sell out quickly, especially during peak season (June to August, when the Andes are covered in snow).
A few things to note: The altitude can be a problem for some people—if you’re prone to altitude sickness, take it easy and drink plenty of water. Also, the train can be slow (it averages about 20 km/h), but that’s part of the charm—you’ll have plenty of time to take photos and enjoy the scenery. Finally, wear warm clothes—even in summer, the altitude makes it cold (temperatures can drop to 0°C/32°F).
Ferry from Buenos Aires to Colonia del Sacramento (Uruguay)
If you have extra time in Buenos Aires, why not take a day trip to Uruguay? The city of Colonia del Sacramento is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with beautiful colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and stunning views of the Río de la Plata. The easiest way to get there is by ferry from Buenos Aires.
Ferries depart from the Puerto Madero neighborhood in Buenos Aires (close to downtown) and arrive in Colonia del Sacramento (Uruguay) in about 1 hour (fast ferry) or 3 hours (slow ferry). The fast ferry is the most popular option—it’s more expensive but saves time. Tickets for the fast ferry cost about $50-$70 one-way, and the slow ferry costs about $30-$40 one-way. You can book tickets online (through companies like Buquebus or Colonia Express) or in person at the ferry terminal.
Pro tip: Bring your passport—you’ll need it to cross the border into Uruguay. Also, leave early in the morning so you have plenty of time to explore Colonia (the ferry leaves every hour or so, so you can easily catch a late afternoon ferry back to Buenos Aires). Colonia is small, so you can explore it on foot or by bike (you can rent a bike for about $10 per day).
Horse-Drawn Carriages in Buenos Aires’ Recoleta Neighborhood
For a more romantic and nostalgic experience, take a horse-drawn carriage (called a “calesa”) through Buenos Aires’ Recoleta neighborhood. Recoleta is one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in Buenos Aires, with tree-lined streets, elegant mansions, and the famous Recoleta Cemetery (where Eva Perón is buried). A 30-minute carriage ride costs about $20-$30, and you can negotiate the price with the driver (just make sure you agree on the price before you get in).
Pro tip: Take the carriage ride in the afternoon or early evening—when the weather is cool and the light is perfect for photos. Also, ask the driver to take you through the Recoleta Cemetery and the nearby Plaza Francia—two of the neighborhood’s top attractions.
Money-Saving Tips for Transportation in Argentina
Traveling in Argentina can be affordable if you know how to save money—and transportation is one area where you can cut costs. Here are my top tips for saving money on transportation in Argentina:
•Use the MEP Exchange Rate: Argentina has two main exchange rates: the official rate (which is bad for tourists) and the MEP rate (also called the “blue rate”), which is much better. The MEP rate is about 20%-30% better than the official rate, so you’ll get more pesos for your dollars. You can get the MEP rate by exchanging money at authorized exchange houses (like Western Union or Cambio de Moneda) or by using your credit card (most credit cards use the MEP rate for purchases in Argentina). Avoid exchanging money at the airport or hotels—they offer the worst rates.
• Buy a SUBE Card: The SUBE card is the cheapest way to pay for public transportation in Argentina. It costs only $1 to buy, and it’s accepted on buses, subways, and some trains. Without a SUBE card, you’ll have to pay more for bus rides (cash fares are about $0.5-$0.7 per ride, compared to $0.2-$0.3 with a SUBE card). You can recharge the card with as little as $1, so you don’t have to worry about carrying a lot of cash.
• Book in Advance: Whether you’re booking domestic flights, long-distance buses, or the Tren a las Nubes, booking in advance will save you money. Domestic flights booked 1-2 months in advance are often 50% cheaper than last-minute flights. Long-distance buses booked 1-2 weeks in advance are also cheaper, and you’ll have a better chance of getting a cama seat. The Tren a las Nubes should be booked 1-2 months in advance to get the best price and avoid sold-out tickets.
• Take Overnight Buses: Overnight buses are a great way to save money on accommodation. Instead of paying for a hotel room, you can sleep on the bus and wake up at your destination. Most cama seats are comfortable enough to sleep in, and you’ll save $30-$100 per night (depending on the city). Just make sure you bring a neck pillow, eye mask, and warm clothes.
• Use Ride-Sharing Apps Instead of Taxis: Uber and Cabify are almost always cheaper than taxis in Argentina—sometimes by as much as 20%. They’re also safer, since you can see the driver’s information before you get in. If you’re traveling alone, use the pool option to split the cost with other passengers.
• Rent a Car with Friends: If you’re traveling with a group of 3-4 people, renting a car can be cheaper than taking buses or flights. Split the cost of the car, insurance, and gas, and you’ll pay a fraction of what you would for individual tickets. This is especially true for trips to Patagonia or Mendoza’s wine regions.
Safety & Practical Tips for Getting Around Argentina
Argentina is a safe country for tourists, but there are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to transportation. Here are my top safety and practical tips:
• Watch Your Belongings: Pickpockets are common on public transportation in large cities, especially on the subway (during rush hour) and buses. Keep your wallet, phone, and passport in a secure place (like a crossbody bag or inside pocket), and don’t leave valuables unattended. At bus terminals (like Retiro in Buenos Aires), be extra careful—there are often pickpockets targeting tourists.
• Use Official Taxis & Ride-Sharing Apps: Avoid unmarked taxis—they’re often more expensive and not always safe. Stick to official taxi stands (marked with signs) or ride-sharing apps like Uber and Cabify. If you take a taxi, make sure the meter is running—if the driver refuses to turn it on, get out and find another taxi.
• Learn Basic Spanish Phrases: Most drivers, bus conductors, and subway staff in Argentina don’t speak English. Learning a few basic Spanish phrases will make your life easier: “¿Cuánto cuesta?” (How much does it cost?), “¿Para dónde va este autobús?” (Where is this bus going?), and “¿Dónde está la estación de subte?” (Where is the subway station?). You can also download a translation app like Google Translate to help you communicate.
• Carry Cash: While credit cards are accepted at most restaurants, hotels, and rental car companies, many small businesses (like convenience stores and local buses) only accept cash. Make sure you carry enough pesos for small purchases—you can exchange dollars for pesos at exchange houses or ATMs (ATMs usually have a withdrawal limit of $100-$200 per day).
• Be Prepared for Delays: Flights and buses in Argentina are sometimes delayed—especially during peak season or bad weather. Leave plenty of time between connecting flights, and don’t make tight plans after your arrival. If your bus is delayed, ask the bus company for updates—they’ll usually let you know how long the delay will be.
• Check Road Conditions Before Driving: If you’re renting a car, especially in Patagonia, check road conditions before you leave. Some roads are closed during winter (June to August) due to snow, and others may be flooded or blocked by landslides during rainy season (November to March). You can check road conditions on the Argentine government’s website or ask your rental car company for advice.
Tips for Tourists from the Americas
If you’re coming from North or South America, there are a few extra things to keep in mind when traveling to Argentina:
• Visa Requirements: Tourists from the United States and Canada can enter Argentina without a visa and stay for up to 90 days. But you will need to pay a $160 entry fee—this fee must be paid online in advance (you can pay it through the Argentine government’s website). Tourists from other South American countries (like Brazil, Chile, Peru, and Colombia) can enter Argentina without a visa and stay for up to 90 days, and they don’t have to pay an entry fee.
• Seasonal Differences: Argentina is in the Southern Hemisphere, so its seasons are opposite to those in North America. Summer in Argentina is December to February (perfect for beach trips and Patagonia), and winter is June to August (great for skiing in Bariloche). If you’re coming from North America, keep this in mind when packing—you’ll need summer clothes if you’re traveling in December, and winter clothes if you’re traveling in July.
• Health Precautions: If you’re traveling to Iguazu Falls (in northern Argentina), make sure you bring insect repellent—mosquitoes are common there, and some carry diseases like dengue fever. If you’re traveling to Patagonia, the altitude can be a problem—drink plenty of water and avoid strenuous activity for the first day or two. You should also bring sunscreen and a hat— the sun is strong at high altitudes.
• Electricity: Argentina uses Type I electrical outlets (the same as Australia and China). If you’re coming from North America (which uses Type A and B outlets), you’ll need an adapter. You can buy an adapter at most electronics stores in Argentina for about $5-$10.
