United States citizens, as well as Canadian citizens, do not need a visa and do not have to pay a reciprocity fee in order to enter Argentina. Every traveler must have a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond dates of travel. You may also be required to show “proof of onward travel” before boarding your inbound flight (your return flight information fulfills this requirement).
Argentina does not have any vaccination requirements beyond being up to date on your routine vaccinations. Hepatitis A and Typhoid are also recommended, although not required.
The mosquito-transmitted Zika Virus is found in the Iguazú region of Argentina, and in some of the northern-most regions of Argentina, including Salta. The CDC recommends travelers take extra precautions to avoid being bit by mosquitos. Use insect repellents with 25-30% Deet or 20% Picaridin, and wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, socks, and shoes to protect against mosquito bites. If you are pregnant, Knowmad Adventures does not advise travel to the Iguazú or northern-most regions of Argentina in accordance with the CDC.
Ultimately it is a good idea to visit a travel clinic 4-8 weeks prior to any international travel. For more information, you can also visit the Centers for Disease Control website.
For specifics on Covid-19 vaccination requirements, please visit our Current South America Covid Regulations & Info page.
The two best ways to get money while traveling in Argentina are to exchange U.S. Dollars to Argentinian pesos, and to use local ATMs. ATMs distribute local Argentinian pesos and use the most current exchange rate, though many ATMs do charge a small fee for foreign cards (usually $3-7 USD). Your bank may charge an international ATM fee (usually $6 USD or under), so we recommend calling your bank before you travel. Some ATMs also have transaction withdrawal limits, so if you will need a large sum, plan ahead (you are able to make multiple transactions; however, any transaction fees will be assessed each time). Also, bring at least one ATM/debit card and at least one credit card if you can. If possible, we recommend bringing at least one ATM card that is not equipped with a chip, as some ATMs (in Patagonia in particular) are not compatible with this technology. Problems with ATMs, such as machines that do not accept your card, are common. If you have any questions or encounter any issues, please ask your guide for assistance.
We also highly recommend bringing U.S. Dollars to exchange, as there can be shortages or limits at ATMs during high season. You can change these to pesos at certified Casas de Cambio or money exchange offices. There is a money exchange office at the airport, or you can always ask your hotel or guide for other locations. We suggest exchanging money at the beginning of your trip in Buenos Aires, or other larger cities, to then have for the remainder of your time in Argentina. Credit cards are often accepted at restaurants and large shops. Cabs and businesses marketing to tourists may accept U.S. dollars, but local currency is preferred so we recommend having “greenbacks” only as backup funds.
The recommendation for private guides is between $10-20 USD per full day of guiding per person, and $3-5 USD for private drivers per full day per person. If the tour is a half day or any other length, you can prorate accordingly. For large groups or group excursions it is appropriate to tip guides closer to $10 USD per person per full day or less. This is simply a guideline and it is Knowmad’s hope that you use it only as a framework and tip appropriate to the level of service you feel you receive. Tipping recommendations are in USD because exchange rates fluctuate frequently, and because in Argentina guides often prefer their tips in USD, although the local currency (Pesos) is fine as well.
Tipping for services in Argentina is customary: 10% in restaurants reflects very good service; spare change or small sums are customary for cab drivers and bellhops. Large bills can be difficult to break in most of the country, so hang on to small bills and change for tips. Please note, for included meals tips are not pre-paid as they are at the discretion of the travelers.
Lodges and cruises have varying tipping guidelines based on their structure and service level, and will provide their own specific recommendations. At Aguas Arriba Lodge, they recommended tipping approximately $30-40 USD per traveler per day, to be shared amongst all lodge staff. Awasi suggests $30-50 USD per traveler per day for lodge staff (placed in a shared tipping box) and $20-30 USD per traveler per day for private guides (cash only). The Australis cruise recommends tipping approximately $12-15 USD per passenger per day. Again, please tip based on the services you feel you received and what you feel comfortable with, and don’t hesitate to ask your Knowmad Adventures Operations Specialist if you have additional questions about your specific lodge, cruise, or itinerary.
Trip insurance is not included in your trip cost. Knowmad highly recommends insuring your trip, as the unforeseeable is just that, unforeseeable. A few days after confirming your trip, you will receive an email from our recommended travel insurance provider, Travel Guard, with a pre-built quote. The policy will be built corresponding with your trip dates, total cost including estimated international and regional airfare, and your personal information. Should you choose to purchase this recommended policy, simply click the blue “Review my travel insurance quote >” link, review the coverage, and enter payment information.
Additionally, some countries are requiring specific coverage due to Covid-19. Please see visit our Current South America Covid Regulations & Info page for details.
In Argentina you’ll need a plug adapter to make any charger or appliance fit the socket as Argentina has two types of sockets, and each individual building will only use one or the other. One plug is two-pronged, with wider-set round prongs; and the other plug has three flat prongs, the top two slanting inward and the bottom vertical (see examples on right). 220-240 is the accepted voltage in Argentina. Many higher-end electronics like cameras and phone chargers will accept this voltage, while hairdryers and curlers of 110 volts will likely fry. If your electronics do not accept 220-240 volts, you will need a converter. Knowmad recommends checking the labels on your electronic devices to see which ones will be compatible before you travel.
We recommend drinking bottled water. The water in Buenos Aires and most of the country is good, and most locals drink from the tap; however, the water can be highly chlorinated and can be unappealing to those note accustomed to it. In rural areas in the north of the country, tap water is not potable, and it is recommended to stick with bottled water at all times
Argentina is considered a safe country; however, on occasion petty crime does occur. Travelers should take the same precautions that they would in any unfamiliar city. Be aware of your surroundings, travel with a companion, especially at night, and stay in populated and well-lit areas. We also recommend you keep a close eye on your belongings, especially in airports, crowded tourist sites, and busy markets. Do not use loosely hanging bags or purses (bags that zip are recommended), avoid wearing flashy or expensive jewelry, and when in crowds move backpacks and purses to the front of your body. Carry only the money you’ll need each day, and keep the rest in the safety deposit box in your hotel room, along with your passport and other valuables.
Being aware of common scams in Buenos Aires can also help reduce the risk of petty theft. When you are paying a taxi fare or for purchases in stores, be aware that you are receiving the correct change. A popular pickpocketing scam is to distract the traveler by spilling something on them (like coffee or water) and while that person helps clean it up, a partner steals the traveler’s bag or wallet. Prior knowledge of these scams and being aware of your surroundings will help reduce your risk of being taken advantage of by these practices.
The weather is mild in Buenos Aires during fall (March-May) and spring (September-October), with temperatures in the 60s-70s ̊F. During the hot and humid summer (November-March) the average highs are in the 80s °F. Winter temperatures (June-August) are moderated by the South Atlantic with temperatures in the 50s ̊F.
Located in Western Argentina close to the Andes Mountains, Mendoza’s climate is comparable to California. Summers can be very hot and dry with temperatures in January reaching 100 °F; however, the lack of humidity makes it more bearable than a 100 °F day in Buenos Aires, for instance. Nights are cooler, with temperatures averaging in the 50s-60s ̊F for most of the year, and colder in the winter months.
The summer season in Patagonia (November-March) has daytime temperatures typically in the 50s and 60s °F. However, Patagonia’s weather can be highly unpredictable, and it can rain at any time of year as well as be extremely windy. Temperatures in Patagonia can drop to near freezing at night. Northern Patagonia or The Lakes Region (Bariloche) is similar to Southern Patagonia but a bit warmer and wetter. Springtime in Patagonia (September-November) is a little cooler than summer with slightly milder winds. Similarly, fall months (March-May) are a little cooler than summer.
This region contains many elevation changes, with the majority of the population living in low valleys
with a pleasant climate. To the west is the altiplano or high plains, which are arid and about 12,000 feet above sea level. Temperatures are warmest in January, averaging highs in the 70s ̊F, and this time of year is also the wettest. Winter temperatures average in the 50s ̊F, with June being the coldest month. Temperatures fluctuate greatly depending on the sun, and mornings and evenings can be decidedly cool.
A subtropical climate with abundant precipitation and high temperatures year-round, the summer months (December- February) are the wettest and most humid. Summer temperatures can reach the 80s and 90s ̊F, while winter months average highs in the 70s ̊F.
Located on the coast, this area gets an average annual rainfall of 6” to 8”, with average temperatures ranging from the 50s to the 80s °F. The coldest months are June, July, and August, and the warmest months are December, January, and February, with temperatures sometimes even reaching the high 90s.
Comfortable walking shoes with good ankle support or hiking shoes are sufficient for most people and are less bulky than hiking boots, therefore we recommend them for most itineraries. For hiking-intensive itineraries, hiking boots are also great but not a necessity. We do not recommend buying a new pair of hiking boots or shoes immediately prior to your trip, as they will not be broken in and can result in painful blisters. A change of shoes intended for leisure activities is also recommended.
The recommended outfit for a day in Patagonia is layerable, non-cotton clothing designed for hiking and athletics, with an outer layer jacket and pants that are windproof and waterproof. We also recommend bringing along a neck warmer/gator and socks designed for hiking. The wind can be brisk in Patagonia, so bring a light down jacket or fleece, as well as gloves and a hat. If you will be trekking, we recommend a rain poncho in addition to a rain jacket, as they also can cover your daypack. Ideal bottoms to pack include a base layer (which many days you won’t use, depending on the forecast), comfortable athletic or hiking pants, and rain or wind pants. For your top, you should pack a base layer, an insulating layer (ideally fleece or light down), and a rain or wind layer. With these three layers, you will be well prepared.
Due to the subtropical climate, it is important to pack your rain jacket for a visit to Iguazú. Light-colored, light-weight clothing is also recommended, and pants and long-sleeves are handy to ward off insects.
Required gear such as a lifejacket, a wetsuit, and a dry bag for items will be provided. For this activity, we recommend wearing a long-sleeved non-cotton shirt, and lightweight quick-drying pants. If it’s a cool day don’t forget a windbreaker, and if you like having gloves for paddling you should pack your own.
Required gear such as helmets will be provided. For this activity, we recommend wearing tighter fitting pants or shorts, layers on top, your raincoat just in case, sunglasses, and, of course, sunscreen!
For this activity, wear jeans or thicker pants and comfortable athletic shoes. It is also nice to bring a fleece or sweater that is a full-zip or button-down, as it can be difficult to pull a sweater over your head while on a horse! We also recommend bringing a hat for the sun, sunscreen, lip balm, and a water bottle.
Please check with your carrier and refer to your ticket booking details for information on baggage restrictions and fees, as your fare category determines your baggage allowance. Aerolineas Argentinas Plus Fares include one piece of checked luggage that must not exceed 33 lbs, while Promo and Base Fares do not include checked baggage (bags can be checked for a fee). Flex/Air Shuttle Fares include two checked bags of 33 lbs each, and Club Economy Fares include two checked bags of 50 lbs each. LATAM Plus Fares include one piece of checked luggage, while Promo and Light Fares do not include checked baggage (bags can be checked for a fee). LATAM checked baggage must not exceed 50 lbs. Overweight baggage may be subject to additional fees.
Knowing a lot about a country before you visit can enrich your travels, help you meet and relate more to local people, and have deeper appreciation for historical and cultural sites. To learn more about Argentina’s history, culture, and people, we recommend consulting travel guide books, online websites, and travel blogs.
Meals in Argentina are more leisurely and on a later schedule than in the United States. Argentinians eat 4-5 meals per day.
Breakfast is simple, and lunch doesn’t begin until 1-2:00 p.m., and can last a few hours. During this time, many businesses will be closed. Dinner times in Argentina are much later than in most of the United States, and many restaurants will not open until after 7:00 p.m. On weeknights, dinner for most Argentinians begins after 9:00 p.m., and on weekends even later. Meals are meant to be enjoyed and expected to be unrushed. You will have to ask for the check, as it is considered rude to provide a check without the patron having requested it. If you would like Knowmad to assist you with making restaurant reservations, please note that we must be notified at least 2 weeks prior to your dates of travel, especially if traveling during December or early January.
Price guide for the approximate cost of a main dish at each restaurant (please note that prices and restaurant hours are subject to change without notice): $ = Under 10 $$ = 10-20 $$$ = 20-40 $$$$ = Over 40
Covid-19 has affected restaurants’ hours of operation in South America as in the United States. Please refer to their websites For additional information and to make a reservation, as doing so may require you to enter payment information to confirm the reservation. We recommend making reservations at least 2 months in advance for the Christmas, New Year’s, and Easter holiday dates; and further in advance if looking to dine at a particular restaurant. If calling or making reservations from outside of Argentina dial +54 before the complete phone number.
BUENOS AIRES – RECOLETA
- ROUX – Price: $$$$ Roux has a sophisticated menu and beautifully presented plates. This French-Argentinian restaurant is small, so it’s best to make reservations.
- SOTTOVOCE – Price: $$$ Classic Italian restaurant deemed one of the best by locals.
- PIZZERíA GüERRíN – Price: $$ Founded in 1932 by Genoveses immigrants, it has become very popular around the city due to its history. Try the specialty pizza “de mozzarella with faina” or “the fugazzeta rellena.”
- EL SANJUANINO – Price: $ Known for having some of the best empanadas in town, San Juanino is a relaxed, casual establishment with a local feel. Quaint and close to Casa Sur Recoleta.
BUENOS AIRES – PALERMO
- DON JULIO – Price: $$$ A rustic but charming steakhouse, Don Julio is the place to go if you’re looking to pair Argentinian beef and wine.
- LA CABRERA SUR – Price: $$$ The perfect place to enjoy some of Argentina’s best steak and parilla. Be sure to stop by or call to make reservations because it’s a porteño favorite!
- MISHIGUENE – Price: $$ Serving classic recipes from Israeli, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean cuisine with a modern Argentine twist.
- SACRO – Price: $$$$ A high-end vegan restaurant and bar with unique dishes like activated charcoal empanadas, dosa, carrot baos, sweet potato ravioli, and palta lime pie. They also serve a variety of superfood cocktails and cold-pressed juices.
- NIÑO GORDO – Price: $$$$ Restaurant and bar that brings Asian – porteño innovative flavours. Lovely décor, red lighting, Manga and figurines all around.
- LA CARNICERIA – Price: $$$ Modern parrilla sources grass-fed meat from a family farm in the Pampas. It’s small and smoky ambience. Be sure to start with their provelta!
- CHORI – Price: $$ Argentina’s most iconic street food, where the homemade chorizo, fresh-baked bread, and creative toppings all join forces in sandwich harmony.
- LAS FLORES – Price: $$-$$$ This new space fuses creative gastronomy and gluten free in an environment full of native flora.
- CASA COUPAGE – Price: $$$$ A delicious dinner inside the dining room of an Argentine house that dates back to 1890, and home of the host. This closed door dinner will come with amazing wines and a blind tasting alongside a multi-course meal in a wonderfully unique experience.
BUENOS AIRES – SAN TELMO
- EL BAQUEANO – Price: $$$$ Here they showcase Argentina’s vast biodiversity and ancient cooking methods using native ingredients.
- PULPERIA QUILAPAN – Price: $$ Travel back through time to the colonial Buenos Aires with this restaurant’s amazing historical atmosphere. Enjoy some traditional Argentinian dishes and wine from penguin-shaped pitchers, unique to Argentina.
BUENOS AIRES – PUERTO MADERO
- CABAÑA LAS LILAS – Price: $$$$ Known for its traditional Argentine meat from the family-owned business, this restaurant has a warm atmosphere with a focus on the quality of its dishes.
- PAROLACCIA DEL MARE – Price: $$$ Select from a variety plates of pastas and seafood as you enjoy this restaurant’s pleasant setting with beautiful views of the Puerto Madero waterfront. Reservations strongly recommended.
- CHILA – Price: $$$$ This Modern, but sophisticated décor, offers eclectic Gourmet food putting a modern twist on traditional Argentine dishes. Good option for vegetarians and vegans.
- LA CABAÑA – Price: $$$$ This traditional Argentine grill has 80 years worth of “parrilla” history, including presidents and international artists as previous patrons
BUENOS AIRES – BARS AND NIGHTLIFE
- GRAN BAR DANZÓN – Price: $$$ Sushi and wine bar located in Recoleta. This place fills up, so arrive by 9 p.m!
- 878 – Price: $$$ Located in Palermo, there is no sign on this hidden bar – it simply looks like a house from the outside!
- PRESIDENTE BAR – Price: $$ A stylish period building is the home of this bar, characterized by an old-school glamor and cosmopolitan energy.
- EL BOTICARIO – Price: $$ Filled with apothecary jars, Boticario honors the pharmacists who dispensed alcoholic elixirs to treat all sorts of ailments
MENDOZA
- AZAFRÁN – Price: $$-$$$ A rustic chic setting with open air seating, an extensive wine list, and innovative and delicious dishes make Azafrán a great choice for a casual meal. Reservations can be made at http://azafranresto.com/en
- ANNA BISTRO – Price: $$$ One of Mendoza’s most beautiful restaurants with a wonderful garden area, cool music and carefully prepared, creative international dishes.
- EL MERCADITO – Price: $-$$ El Mercadito serves a variety of healthy meat and vegetarian options in a charming area with many restaurants and bars nearby. Perhaps take a stroll after dinner to see the bustling nightlife in Mendoza.
CALAFATE
- LA TABLITA – Price: $$-$$$ Argentinian through and through, La Tablita is known for its delicious Patagonian lamb.
- ISABEL COCINA AL DISCO – Price: $$-$$$ Experience a traditional Patagonian ranch meal cooked in plow discs. Reservations are recommended. To make a reservation contact your Operations Specialist.
- PURA VIDA – Price: $$ This café’s friendly atmosphere and their healthy vegetarian and gluten-free options make for a great experience. Keep in mind that they do not make reservations by phone, and it’s best to just stop by around 7:30 to get a table for dinner.
- BORGES Y ALVAREZ – Price: $$ With a nice atmosphere and music, this restaurant offers a very wide range of drinks and a library for those who enjoy reading.
CHALTÉN
- LA CERVECERÍA – Price: $$ The town’s only microbrewery, this popular pub also serves hearty locro (stew), empanadas, ceviche, and more.
- LA TAPERA – Price: $$ Great quality food and generous portions. With excellent service and a warm atmosphere, you feel like you are right at home. Reservations are recommended.
- AHONIKENK – Price: $$ After a long hike, this restaurant is the best spot to try Patagonian Lamb.
BARILOCHE
- EL BOLICHE DE ALBERTO – Price: $$ This no-frills grill serves up mouth-watering beef and wonderful tomato and basil empanadas and fries. Boliche is such an institution it has gained a reputation and now has a few locations.
- CASSIS – Price: $$$$ Cassis is considered the ‘best’ restaurant in Bariloche, using Patagonian products cooked in their signature way. It is best to make a reservation.
- IL GABBIANO – Price: $$$ Located near the Llao Llao Hotel, this family-owned gem is a sure bet for excellent Italian.
- CERVECERIA MANUSH – Price: $$-$$$ The combination of quality beer, burgers, meats, and local fresh fish makes the Manush experience.
- LA CASITA – Price: $$ Regional food. Offers you the best of its home-made cooking, the attention of its owners and a cozy, atmosphere
- EL PATACON – Price: $$$ the best cuts of Argentine meat, gourmet dishes, regional food, vegetarian and celiac options.
- LA SALAMANDRA PULPERÍA – Price: $$$ A rustic local favorite known for its beef.
USHUAIA
- CHEZ MANU – Price: $$$ A bakery, café, and bar, Ramos Generales also functions as an informal historical museum of the city.
- REINAMORA – Price: $$$$ Located at Los Cauquenes Resort & Spa, they offer European gourmet cuisine and traditional Patagonian dishes, such as crab or lamb, and are great for a warm experience overlooking the Beagle Channel.
- KUAR – Price: $$ Enjoy a range of excellent dishes from more refined meals to unique appetizers and tapas. Pair your meal with a local craft beer.
- ALMACEN DE RAMOS GENERALES – Price: $$-$$$ A very local, charming and historic place, open all day long, you can have lunch and dinner. To start with, we suggest trying the best soups in town, the Patagonia lamb or pastas and their Patagonic fruits pie.
- KAUPE – Price: $$$ This word means “to be at home” in the selk-nam language. This local home turned into a restaurant, offers a wonderful fish & seafood menu and a great view.
SALTA
- MA CUISINE – Price: $$-$$$ International cuisine with a French flair is served in this small, friendly restaurant. Don’t be surprised if the chef comes to join you while you dine!
- DONA SALTA – Price: $$-$$$ A warm restaurant with a family-like atmosphere, it serves typical dishes of Salta and of the Argentine Northwest. Its specialities are the empanadas salteñas (baked or fried pastry stuffed with different kinds of meat, cheese or vegetables), grilled meats, tamales, baby goat casserole, humitas (prepared with fresh corn, sautéed onions and spices) and pastas.
- CAFE DEL TIEMPO – Price: $$-$$$ At Balcarce 901, this café offers international cuisine and drinks at all hours. It has a terrace, which is ideal to enjoy snacks and drinks listening to live music. The menu includes dishes with llama meat, snacks and international dishes such as chop suey.
PUERTO IGAUZÚ
- AQVA – Price: $$$ A standout in Iguazú, Aqva’s specialties are local fish, meat, and home-made pastas.
- EL QUINCHO DEL TÍO QUERIDO – Price: $$$ Primarily known for its parrilla, occasional live music complements a lively atmosphere.
- IN PATAGONIA by Bruce Chatwin is a classic non-fiction recounting of an English writer’s entertaining and thrilling six-month exploration of Argentinian Patagonia.
- UTTERMOST PART OF THE EARTH by E. Lucas Bridges was first published in 1948, and tells of the true adventure of the first European settlers in Tierra del Fuego.
- AN EPISODE IN THE LIFE OF A LANDSCAPE PAINTER by César Aira mixes fact and fiction into surreal history. Prodigious and talented Aira creates his own version of a German painter’s fateful journey to the Argentinian plains.
- LABYRINTHS by Jorge Luis Borges serves as an excellent introduction to the life and works of the master, considered to be Argentina’s most important author.
- MOTORCYCLE DIARIES by Ernesto ‘Che’ Guevara recounts the early years of the revolutionary as he travels throughout South America.
- Buenos Dias (BWEH-nohs DEE-ahs) – Good morning, Good day • Buenas Tardes (BWEH-nahs TAR-dehs) – Good afternoon
Buenas Noches (BWEH-nahs NOH-chehs) – Good evening
Por favor (POHR fah-VOHR) – Please
- Gracias (GRAH-syahs) – Thanks
¿Cuánto cuesta esta? (KWAHN-toh KWEHS-tah EHSS-tah) –
- How much does this cost?
- ¿Dónde está ____? (DOHN-deh ehss-TAH ___) – Where is ____?
- ¿Habla inglés? (AH-blahs een-GLEHS) – Do you speak English?
- ¿Qué recomienda? (KEH reh-coh-mee-EHN-dah) – What do you recommend?
- Soy alérgico/a a ____ (soy ah-LEHR-hee-coh/-cah ah ____) – I’m allergic to ____
AT THE TABLE
- la carta (lah KAHR-tah) – the menu
- la cuenta (lah KWEHN-tah) – the check
- agua (AH-gwa) – water
- café (kah-FEH) – coffee
- cerveza (sehr-VAY-sah) – beer
- vino (VEE-noh) – wine
- pescado y marisco (pehs-KAH-doh ee mah-REES-kohs) – fish and seafood
- pollo (POH-yoh) – chicken
- carne (KAHR-nay) – meat
- sin gluten (seen GLOO-tehn) – gluten-free
- vegetariano/a (veh-heh-tah-RYAH-noh/-nah) – vegetarian
Have a question that you can’t find an answer to on our site? Or if you’d simply like to ask a real, live person your questions instead of browsing through these FAQ sections, we are more than happy to help. Just give us a call at 612-315-2894 or email [email protected].
