Lose yourself in the beautifully vast and contrasting landscapes of Argentina combined with a multitude of experiences. From the vibrant, chic city of Buenos Aires to the adventurous Ushuaia in Tierra del Fuego, Argentina captivates with its charm.

The cuisine is delectable, featuring world-class wine from Mendoza, succulent steak, cheesy empanadas, sweet crumbly alfajores, and irresistible cappuccinos. Its diverse natural regions, from the tropical Atlantic rainforest in the north to the vast Patagonian steppe, are home to an array of wildlife, including Antarctic species.

Embrace cultural attractions with experiences like living the rugged life of a gaucho or dancing like a sultry tango performer.

Here are our top destinations for first-time visitors to this magical country:

Buenos Aires

Beautiful Buenos Aires is often called the Paris of Latin America, and it’s easy to see why. Argentina’s capital is undoubtedly one of the world's most exciting cities. Its wide ‘Avenidas’ are lined with incredible Paris-style architecture, juxtaposed with vibrant graffiti and murals showcasing the city's street art scene. A blend of contemporary culture and rich heritage makes Buenos Aires the perfect start to any trip, with a dynamic music and nightlife scene and first-class culinary choices.

Deeply influenced by its European roots, Buenos Aires brims with culture. Numerous theatres, museums, and preserved homes of art collectors, writers, composers, and artists highlight the city's historical and artistic significance. Known as the birthplace of Tango, Buenos Aires offers vibrant nightlife with exceptional restaurants and bars. Savour succulent steaks paired with world-class wines for an unforgettable dining taste sensation.

The city’s iconic barrios, including La Boca, San Telmo, Recoleta, Palermo, and Puerto Madero, each with their own unique charm and historical attractions. Explore the innumerable cafes, shops, and boutiques that dot every corner. Buenos Aires is a city where the past and present seamlessly blend, offering an unparalleled experience for every visitor.

Far & Wild recommends discovering the boutique charm of Legado Mitico in Palermo Soho. Each of its 11 rooms embodies a legendary Argentine personality, from iconic Eva Peron to the beloved cartoon character Mafalda, and the emblematic symbol of tango Carlos Gardel. Unfold Argentina's story in Legado Mitico’s calming interior.

Iguazu Falls

The magnificent Iguazu Falls is celebrated as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, and a visit reveals why. Spanning the Argentine-Brazilian border, there are a mighty 275 stunning cascades, some reaching 80 metres high amidst lush jungle. Rainbows, subtropical wildlife, and the thunderous roar of 14 million litres of water make this attraction immensely popular.

Explore the falls' grandeur with an adventurous boat ride beneath them or venture into Garganta del Diablo (Devil’s Throat), the largest water curtain in this natural spectacle. Sturdy walking shoes are a must for navigating the extensive network of boardwalks and viewing platforms, offering close-up views where vibrant butterflies flutter amid the spray. As part of the Atlantic Rainforest, the region offers a range of nature-inspired adventures such as birdwatching, and trails to learn about the jungle and spot Macuco, monkeys, coatis, wild turkeys, countless insects, and an abundance of snakes and other reptiles.

Far & Wild recommends Mercure Iguazu Hotel Iru nestled in the Iryapu Jungle. This tropical oasis is close to the falls but also far enough away to feel secluded. It offers all the modern conveniences, whilst enjoying the birdsong, the clear starry skies the tranquil sounds of nature.

Ibera Wetlands

In the heart of Corrientes province lies Esteros del Ibera, Argentina's great marshlands, a wildlife lovers haven of endless skies, sparkling rivers, lush grasslands, and melodic birdsong. Here, visitors encounter caimans, capybaras, swamp deer, howler monkeys, and over 350 bird species in their natural habitat.

Activities include boat safaris, bird watching, hikes, horseback riding, and fly fishing, offering a true wilderness experience. If you dream of escaping civilisation to immerse yourself in untouched nature and observe wildlife up close, Esteros del Ibera is a must-visit destination to enrich your Argentina Holiday experience.

Far & Wild recommends the estancia-style charm of Puerto Valle to discover the region's highlights. Enjoy all-inclusive meals and safari-style excursions to spot wildlife like swamp deer, capybaras, caimans, giant otters, and birds with knowledgeable guides. Immerse yourself in Gaucho life and explore on horseback. A stay at Puerto Valle promises days immersed in nature.

Mendoza

Mendoza, located in the northern part of the province, lies in a region of foothills and high plains with an extensive artificial irrigation system ideal for winegrowing. It is the largest wine-producing area in Latin America and a premier wine-tourism destination globally. Explore hundreds of wineries along the renowned Argentina Wine Route.

However, Mendoza isn't just about wine. The city is a popular stopover for climbers heading to Aconcagua, the highest mountain in the Western Hemisphere, and for adventure travellers interested in mountaineering, hiking, horseback riding, rafting, and other sports. Combine visits to wineries with a day of adventure in the stunning foothills of the Andes.

Far & Wild recommends the stunning Cavas Wine Lodge, a Relais & Châteaux property nestled in the Andes foothills. Set in a 35-acre vineyard in the heart of Lujan de Cuyo wine district, the lodge retains Spanish colonial traditions, with adobe-walled rooms providing a cool, serene interior even in the summer heat. Relax with a top-quality Malbec on your outdoor patio or enjoy a dip in your private hot tub

Bariloche, Lake District

Bariloche is at the northwestern gateway to Patagonia, nestled in the foothills of the Andes Mountain range. The idyllic and beautiful Lake District region offers lush green hills contrasting with emerald rivers and glacial lakes. The area features granite mountains, active volcanoes, tranquil towns populated by European descendants, native Mapuche settlements, and forests of monkey-puzzle trees.

The Patagonian Lake District is one of the most picturesque places in the world with San Carlos de Bariloche, the main town and outdoor adventure hub of the region. Located on the shore of the sprawling Lago Nahuel Huapi where, you'll find a wide selection of lakeside hotels, fabulous treks like Cerro Catedral and Cerro Tronador, and numerous watersport opportunities. From Bariloche, you can embark on the iconic Andes Lake Crossing from Llao Llao to Petrohue, in the Chilean Lake District.

Further afield, drive the scenic "Seven Lakes Road" from Villa La Angostura to San Martín de los Andes, a charming alpine town. This picturesque route is perfect for a few days' stay, offering breathtaking views and a tranquil retreat.

Far & Wild recommends El Casco Art Hotel, a luxurious boutique option overlooking Lake Nahuel Huapi with the Andes as a picturesque backdrop. Cosy, individually decorated rooms showcase exceptional Argentine art. It's an ideal base for exploring the area, with a restaurant and spa for post-adventure relaxation. Don’t miss La Cava wine bar—after all, you’re in Argentina...

El Calafate

El Calafate is a charming town in Southern Patagonia, named after the calafate bush with its yellow flowers and dark blue berries. Located on a steppe landscape, visitors come to marvel at the vastness of the area, the turquoise waters of Lago Argentino, and its desert-like vegetation.

The main attraction is the breathtaking Perito Moreno Glacier in Los Glaciares National Park. This colossal glacier, one of the most visited in the world, offers a unique opportunity to get up close to a non-retreating glacier. A day trip from El Calafate to explore the glacier and a guided ice trek is highly recommended. Another notable glacier is Viedma, where you can trek or take a boat trip on Lago Viedma to the north.

Popular activities include trekking, horseback riding, and 4x4 excursions, orkayaking between the ice-blue icebergs for an unforgettable experience. For those with more time, a trip to El Chaltén is a must for spectacular trekking to stunning lagoons overlooked by the towering peaks of the Fitzroy Massif.

Far & Wild recommends the spectacular Eolo, a stylish lodge offering endless panoramic views. Every detail is crafted to delight guests, from sumptuous dining with fine wines to excursions led by knowledgeable guides sharing tales of history and adventure. Eolo is more than a stay; it’s a true Patagonia immersion experience.

Conclusion

Argentina is a vast country and although the flight network is good, we recommend a maximum of around 4 destinations, including Buenos Aires, for a first-time visitor. Buenos Aires is your hub so expect transits and potential overnights in the capital as you fly around your selected destinations. Argentina has other areas which are as equally fascinating like Ushuaia in Tierra del Fuego, the southernmost city in the world or the Salta region in the Northwest, so there will definitely be a reason to return to this wonderfully diverse country.

Call us now on 01768 603 715 or click the button below and start planning your tailor-made first-time experience in Argentina.