Argentina
From the sub-tropical north to the freezing waters of the Tierra del Fuego archipelago - famously explored by Darwin and Fitzroy on the ‘Beagle’ - Argentina is a country of dramatic contrasts.
Its long border with Chile stretches 3,000 miles along the Andes, dominated by Aconcagua, the highest peak in the southern hemisphere, and the magnificent glaciers and lakes of the Patagonian ice field. The mountain foothills provide ideal conditions for cultivating vines, the grapes watered by snowmelt each spring to produce some of the finest wines in the world.
To the east lie the fertile plains of the Pampas, where 85% of the country’s grain is grown and gauchos herd beef cattle on vast estancias. At the heart of this rich agricultural region is Buenos Aires, ‘the Paris of South America’; a city of broad avenues, elegant shops and hotels, imposing colonial buildings and of course the sultry tango.
More than a third of the population live in and around the capital, leaving the rest of the country sparsely inhabited. Whether you opt for city culture or wide open spaces (or both) you’ll find the people extremely welcoming. Argentines are descended from a vibrant mix of Spanish, Italian, Arab, Jewish and Welsh immigrants, and pride themselves on their warm hospitality and excellent service.
Highlights
Here are some of our Argentina highlights
Lakes and forests
Snow-capped mountains, flowing streams and deep blue lakes, the Lake District has some of Argentina's most beautiful scenery. Fish, trek, climb or simply explore the picture-postcard lakeside towns and villages at the foot of the Andes.
Glaciers
5km wide and 30km long, the Perito Moreno glacier is an incredible sight. See it from walkways, boat trips or even mini-trekking on its sculpted surface and watch as huge chunks of ice break off into the impossibly blue water below.
The gaucho life
A national icon, the indomitable 'gauchos' (cowboys) are fiercely proud of their culture and connection to the land, its cattle, and their horses. Visit a working estancia and sample this traditional way of life for yourself.
National parks
With glacial lakes, verdant forests and soaring granite peaks, the Los Glaciares National Park in Argentine Patagonia is a Mecca for walkers. From day walks to multi-day treks, the serene beauty and undisturbed wildlife will not disappoint.
Boutique wineries
Argentina's wine capital, Mendoza, is nestled under the eastern flank of the Andes. Tree-lined avenues criss-cross the town, itself surrounded by world-famous vineyards offering tastings of the region's prime export - Malbec.
The Iconic capital
Buenos Aires is Argentina's capital and one of South America's most colourful and cosmopolitan cities. Superb restaurants, chic bars, lively markets and designer shops, BA has it all - and we haven't even mentioned tango!
Wildlife
The Valdés Peninsula on Argentina's Atlantic coast is one of the best wildlife destinations in South America. Whales, penguins, sea lions, dolphins and elephant seals are just some of the creatures regularly spotted here.
What a joy my adventure in north-west Argentina was - wonderful time, loved the extreme landscapes (such beauty), great driver and some good pictures. I will draw breath and ring you, but I am saturated with wonderful scenery and very happy that I decided to do this trip. Very strange being back to civilization and surrounded by cars and people - I already miss the Puna and the infinite silence.
- JW