How Mate Became Argentina’s Biggest Travel Tool
They hold it under their arm with the same care a mother supports her newborn child as she passes worryingly through a crowd of people. They prepare it like a chemist carefully pouring substances between test tubes and beakers. They pass it among each other like handing down a family heirloom, yet what we are referring to is not a fragile artefact, but instead one of the most common customs you are likely to see around every single corner, from the golden Pampas to hostile Patagonia, of Argentina.
If you have ever been to Argentina, you will inevitably be well versed in what we are referring to, which is of course the beloved tradition of mate. Pronounced “mah-tay”, you must understand that what may seem to the outsider as simply tea in a peculiar cup, this beverage and the tradition around it is so much more deeply rooted in the Argentinian culture, than one might expect. Another thing to understand, is the pieces of the mate puzzle, as explaining it to a foreigner can be as confusing as explaining the distinction between Great Britain, England, and the United Kingdom to a South American. Mate does not refer simply to the herb you drink, the cup you drink it from, or the process in which you drink it, but instead it refers to all of the above, and more.
The tradition and use of the mate herb dates back centuries in South America, seeming to originate from Pre-Columbian times in the once-Spanish colony of Paraguay. And as the Spanish expanded through South America, the reach of mate followed. Prior to this, it is suggested that the indigenous tribes consumed mate mainly for medicinal purposes, but as colonization expanded into what is now called Argentina, the mate tradition grew, was tweaked and ultimately perfected. As many nations in South America turned their attention to the expanding market of growing and exporting coffee, Argentina stayed true to its mate roots and became the prime producer and consumer of the herb.
The process in which to share the mate, or matear (yes, they have even created a verb about drinking mate) has become an incredible way to both distinguish Argentinians, but also break down barriers and include other travellers, nations, and cultures into the tradition of drinking mate. The owner of the mate will commence the session by filling up the gourd and passing it to another person who will enjoy the herbal liquid, return the cup to the owner, who then refills it with more hot water over a dry portion of the herb, and pass it on to another person, welcoming them into the circle.
Similar to North America, where people meet friends over a cup of coffee, Argentinians indulge in impromptu mate sessions. However, unlike traditions to the north where your cup of coffee is yours and yours only, Argentinians are always more than willing to include anyone in the experience. Mate is often enjoyed alone, but is more about the process, the inclusion, and the connection than the drink itself, and is the perfect ice breaker as they welcome you into their customs, as if they were welcoming you into their home.
Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.
Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.
Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.
Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.
We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.
Culture Trip Spring Sale
Save up to $1,100 on our unique small-group trips! Limited spots.
