Argentina Travel Guide

Visiting Argentina means discovering some of the most spectacular landscapes in South America. From Buenos Aires to Ushuaia, from the peaks of the Andes Mountains to Patagonia, each region reveals its own unique character. Take the opportunity to immerse yourself in the country’s culture, feeling the passion of the tango and exploring exceptional destinations such as the Perito Moreno Glacier.

Useful information

Official language(s)

Argentina does not have an official language, but Spanish is spoken throughout the country. English is relatively widespread in tourist areas.   

Flight duration

Direct flight: No direct flights from Quebec 
Connecting flight: 14 to 30 hours (depending on connection times) 

Time zone difference

Argentina time zone: UTC-3 
2 hours ahead of Quebec (EST) 
1 hour ahead of Quebec (EDT) 

Currency

Argentine Peso (ARS) 

Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, etc.) are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, and shops in major cities such as Buenos Aires, Córdoba, and Mendoza. However, it is recommended to carry some pesos for small businesses, local markets, more remote areas, or certain outdoor excursions.  

Tips

In Argentina, tipping is appreciated as a gesture of recognition but is not mandatory. In restaurants, it is customary to leave approximately 10% of the total bill for good service. For taxis, passengers generally round up the fare. For tour guides and activities, a tip of 5% to 10% is appreciated, depending on the quality of the service. In hotels, a small tip may be offered to staff following a service provided.   

Safety

Argentina is considered a relatively safe destination for travellers. However, caution is advised in major cities such as Buenos Aires, particularly with regard to pickpocketing. Keep your belongings secure, avoid travelling through isolated areas at night, and use reliable transportation services. In tourist regions such as Mendoza and Patagonia, travellers can generally explore with peace of mind by following standard safety precautions.

Before any foreign trip, visit the Government of Canada’s Argentina Travel Advice page to find out about the current situation in the country.

  • Great diversity of spectacular landscapes. 
  • Delicious cuisine and exceptional wines. 
  • Warm and welcoming people.  

Keep in mind

  • The vast distances between regions require careful planning, and many itineraries involve domestic flights. 
  • Some road sections are long and remote, particularly in Patagonia and the northwest region. 
  • Altitude is a factor to consider in certain areas of northwestern Argentina, where travellers may experience altitude sickness. 

Argentine Shrimp Empanadas with Corn, Goat Cheese and Chorizo

This recipe for delicious pastries filled with Argentine shrimp, cheese and chorizo sausage offers a true taste of Argentina and is sure to impress your guests. Combining tender shrimp, creamy goat cheese, sweet corn and the smoky spice of chorizo, these empanadas deliver a generous, flavorful bite meant to be shared.

(Video in French only)

Good to know

  • The climate varies greatly from one region to another, ranging from subtropical heat and temperate weather to high-altitude Andean conditions and the cold of Patagonia.
  • The seasons are opposite to those in North America: summer runs from December to March while winter lasts from June to September.
  • Meals are often served late: Lunch is generally eaten between 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m., and dinner may not begin until after 9:00 p.m.
  • Mate and asado play an important role in Argentine culture and are part of everyday life.

Frequently asked questions

Argentina can be visited year-round, but the best time to travel depends on the regions you plan to explore. 

From March to May, Buenos Aires and Mendoza offer ideal conditions, with mild temperatures and the grape-harvest season in full swing. Patagonia is best explored from November to March, when days are longer and conditions are favourable for outdoor activities. Each season offers a unique experience. Winter is perfect for skiing in the Andes Mountains and exploring northern Argentina in more comfortable temperatures.  

Because distances are vast in Argentina, domestic flights are often the most efficient way to travel between regions such as Buenos Aires, Mendoza, Salta, San Carlos de Bariloche, Iguazú, and Patagonia. For overland travel between cities, long-distance buses (known as micros) are a safe and comfortable option. In urban areas, buses (colectivos) are easy to use, and renting a car is useful for exploring certain regions with greater freedom, particularly Route 40 (Ruta 40) and Patagonia. However, caution is advised when driving because road conditions vary by region and local driving habits can sometimes be surprising.  

14 to 21 days 

A 10- to 14-day trip allows travellers to discover highlights such as Buenos Aires, Mendoza, or part of Patagonia. A longer stay makes it possible to explore Patagonia, northwestern Argentina, and Iguazu Falls without rushing the itinerary. 

  • Fiesta Nacional de la Vendimia is held in late February or early March in Mendoza. This major harvest festival celebrates wine, Mendoza’s culture, and the region’s winemaking heritage in a vibrant and festive atmosphere.
  • Carnaval de Gualeguaychú runs from January to late February in Gualeguaychú, Entre Ríos Province. One of Argentina’s most spectacular carnivals, it is renowned for its dazzling floats, sparkling costumes, and contagious energy. An explosion of music, dance, and colour awaits visitors.
  • Carnaval de Humahuaca is held in February or early March in Jujuy Province. Set among the colourful landscapes of northwestern Argentina, this Andean celebration blends music, dance, rituals, and traditions in a lively atmosphere deeply rooted in local identity.
  • Tango BA Festival y Mundial is held in August in Buenos Aires. The Argentine capital comes alive to the rhythm of the tango, with performances, concerts, milongas, and international tango competitions held at iconic venues throughout the city. Take advantage of this captivating opportunity to experience the elegance and passion of this dance born in Buenos Aires.