Tours in Argentina

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What’s the best time of year to visit Argentina?

   If you’re heading to Buenos Aires then we recommend any time outside of summer, when it’s very hot and overcrowded. Summer (December–February) is perfect for outdoor adventures in the south, as conditions are milder, but the shoulder seasons of spring (September–November) and autumn (March–May) are a good bet whether you’re exploring major cities, wine regions or national parks.

2. What’s the climate like?

   Argentina is an enormous country – its northern tip runs parallel to Rio de Janeiro, but its southernmost point is near Antarctica – so the climate is extremely variable. Up north there are tropical regions with high temperatures and lots of rainfall, but the bulk of the country has temperate southern hemisphere conditions. In the south things get much colder, particularly in the Andes and Patagonia, where you’ll find ice fields and glaciers aplenty.

3. What’s the currency?

   Argentine Peso

4. What language is spoken in Argentina?

   The official language of Argentina is Spanish, and is spoken by pretty much the entire population, either as a first or second language. English aptitude here is notable compared to its South American neighbors, with many schools teaching it as a second language. There are of course a number of indigenous languages also still spoken today – 15 in total – and, in Patagonia, there is even a community of around 5,000 who speak Welsh!

5. What is the time difference in Argentina?

   The time zone here is Argentina Standard Time (UTC-3), which puts it 3 hours behind London, 2 hours ahead of New York and 5 hours ahead of LA.

6. Major Airports in Argentina:

   • Aeroparque Jorge Newbery (AEP), Buenos Aires
   • Ministro Pistarini International Airport (EZE), Buenos Aires
   • Ingeniero Aeronáutico Ambrosio L.V. Taravella International Airport (COR), Cordoba
   • Governor Francisco Gabrielli International Airport (MDZ), Mendoza
   • San Carlos de Bariloche Airport (BRC), Bariloche

7. What are the best places to visit in Argentina?

   • Buenos Aires – the enormous capital is a bustling hive of energy with its own distinct identity
   • Mendoza wine region – no trip to Argentina is complete without a few bottles of malbec, so be sure to go direct to the source
   • Iguazú Falls – the world’s largest waterfall system lies on the border with Brazil
   • Talampaya National Park – a cinematic landscape with epic red rock formations, ancient dinosaur fossils and condors circling above
   • Patagonia – this region is one of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders, especially at the otherworldly Los Glaciares National Park

8. What are the top five local dishes to try in Argentina?

   • Asado – more than a dish, asado (meat barbecues) are a way of life in Argentine culture
   • Empanadas – packed dough pockets stuffed with fillings and fried or baked. A staple
   • Choripán – an asado sandwich consisting of chorizo in a crusty bread with plenty of chimichurri
   • Dulce de leche – this caramelized milk sensation is everywhere, be it lathered over desserts, whipped into ice cream or simply spread on toast
   • Maté – the British love their tea, but South Americans drink maté – watch out for the distinctive pot & straw combo they’re traditionally served in

9. Is it safe to travel to Argentina now?

   It is definitely safe to visit Argentina. Like most places there is a certain amount of crime to be wary of – especially in major cities – which mostly consists of pickpocketing and street scams. There are also some extreme weather conditions that can occur in various regions. Always be sure to check the travel advice from your local government before visiting, and ensure your stay is extra safe by booking as part of a locally-led group tour.