TIMING YOUR VISIT
Keep in mind that Argentina experiences seasons opposite to those in the northern hemisphere. The peak season is during January and February, aligning with the summer vacation period. Winter school vacations in July also affect travel, particularly to seaside resorts in the south and the hills of Córdoba. Accommodation and transportation are in high demand during these times, so it’s advisable to book in advance.
Buenos Aires is a year-round destination, though December to February can be hot and humid. Summer is ideal for visiting Patagonia, while the cooler winter months are better suited for exploring the north. Winter and spring are recommended for witnessing the Iguazú Falls, located outside Buenos Aires, as the weather is cooler with less rainfall.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
A valid passport is necessary for entry, and no additional validity beyond the intended stay is required. Some nationalities may need a visa, so checking online beforehand is essential. Visitors can bring up to US $500 in goods without import duties, and proof of Covid-19 vaccination isn’t mandatory.
While Argentina excels in vaccination campaigns, travelers should be cautious about dengue fever, especially in urban areas. Certain provinces pose a higher risk, and precautions against mosquito bites are advisable.
TRANSPORTATION OPTIONS
- Trains: Limited for long-distance journeys, mostly used for suburban commuting. The “Train to the Clouds” offers a scenic route from Salta.
- Buses (Colectivos): Popular for city and suburban travel, requiring a prepaid travel card. Long-distance coaches provide standard and more comfortable options.
- Taxis: Widely available, with over 27,000 in Buenos Aires. Uber and Cabify are also operational, offering alternatives.
- Remises: Private vehicles with fixed fares, commonly used for airport transfers.
- Metro (Subte): Buenos Aires boasts an extensive underground network, quick and efficient for city travel.
- Boats: Ferries operate between Argentina and Uruguay, with Buquebus being a prominent company.
- Driving: Car rental offers flexibility but can be expensive. Driving conditions require caution, and road rules should be followed.
- Flying: Argentina has 55 airports, with Ezeiza Airport being the main hub. Domestic flights are well-connected, with options from major airlines and low-cost carriers.
ADVICE FOR DRIVERS
Driving requires confidence due to inconsistent adherence to traffic rules. Seat belts are compulsory, and traffic moves on the right. Bravado is necessary, and caution is advised in chaotic traffic, especially in Buenos Aires.
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Argentina offers diverse accommodation, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. International chains and independent options are available. Seaside and ski resorts provide good standards, and Airbnb is a popular choice for those seeking a homely atmosphere.
SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS
While Argentinian cities are relatively safe, economic challenges and rising crime rates warrant precautions. Theft and violent crime have increased, especially in Buenos Aires. It’s advisable to avoid walking alone at night, stay vigilant with personal belongings, and use registered taxis. Smaller cities and towns are generally safer, with a slower pace of life and hospitable locals.
USEFUL APPS & WEBSITES
Communication and Socializing
- BA Wifi provides details on over 1,200 free Wi-Fi hotspots in Buenos Aires.
- Buenos Aires Expats Website where expats share experiences and help each other out (baexpats.org).
- Porteño Spanish teaches you the peculiarities of the Spanish spoken in Buenos Aires.
- Tinder, Badoo, and Bumble are Argentina’s most widely used dating apps.
- WhatsApp Argentina’s number one messaging app.
- For Events in English in Buenos Aires See the Argentine-British Community Council website (abcc.org.ar), University Women’s Club (uwcba.org), and Suburban Players (thesuburbanplayers.com).
Travel and Transportation
- BA Ecobici Buenos Aires bike sharing app. Though sometimes rather rickety, the bicycles are free to use on weekdays.
- BA Taxi Hail-a-ride app for use in Buenos Aires.
- BA Turismo Official city app for tours, museums, sights, and more.
- Cómo Llego Buenos Aires route-planning app.
- Cabify and Uber are the two most used ride-hailing apps in Argentina’s main cities.
- Despegar is the most popular site for purchasing flight tickets.
- Trenes Argentinos For train schedules.
Food, Shopping, and Entertainment
- Argentine Wine App Helpful info on the country’s many wines.
- The Fork Good app for booking a table at restaurants and offers discounts on reservations made through the app. Many of the top restaurants manage their bookings through their own websites.
- LightsOut Nightlife app (currently Android only).
- Mercado Libre Shop new and second-hand items on South America’s most popular shopping platform.
- Mercado Pago For online payments and money transfers.
- Milonga Hoy For tango classes, perfomances, and more.
- Pedidos Ya Argentina’s most widely used food delivery service.
- Ticketek.com.ar For concert tickets.
- Rappi Comprehensive food and grocery delivery service.
- Restorando Research restaurant options in Buenos Aires and book a table.