Argentina Traveler Essentials
- Capital
- Buenos Aires
- Currency
- Argentine Peso (ARS)
- Best time to visit
- October to April for Buenos Aires and Mendoza (spring/summer). November to March for Patagonia hiking. July to September for Andean ski resorts.
Visa requirements
Citizens of the USA, EU, UK, Australia, Canada, and most Western nations can enter visa-free for up to 90 days with a passport valid for 6 months.
Getting around
Argentina is vast, so long-distance comfy 'cama' buses and budget domestic flights (Aerolíneas Argentinas, Flybondi) link far-flung cities, with limited long-distance trains. Within Buenos Aires the Subte metro, extensive buses (pay with a SUBE card) and plentiful taxis or apps like Cabify get you around; ride-hailing exists but can be patchy elsewhere.
Safety
Exercise normal caution. Petty theft in crowded tourist areas of Buenos Aires. Avoid displaying expensive items. Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps rather than flagging cabs. Generally safer in tourist regions like Patagonia and wine country.
Tipping customs
Tipping (la propina) is customary but modest. In restaurants leave around 10% in cash, as it often can't be added to card payments. Taxi fares are usually rounded up rather than tipped, and a few pesos for hotel porters or housekeeping is appreciated.
Travel tips
Learn basic Spanish — English is limited outside Buenos Aires. Use the 'blue dollar' exchange (legal via certain apps) for much better exchange rates. Dinner is served late — restaurants don't fill up until 9–10pm. Book Patagonia trekking permits months ahead.