Argentina Backpacking

Argentina is a curious blend. Home to some of the world’s finest natural wonders, it is a pivotal example of South American culture - and yet at times you feel you could almost be in Europe. It is also a vast and diverse land. At 2,766,890 km, Argentina is the eighth largest country in the world. National parks, mountains and beautiful cities provide a varied playground for any visitor. Popular activities include trekking, rafting, skiing, mountaineering and, of course, tango dancing.

The generally temperate climate has two extremes: the near-tropical north and the polar south. Spring (September to November) is the perfect time to visit Buenos Aires; the city is covered in colourful jacarandas and the climate is pleasantly cool. Summer (December to February) can be very hot and humid. Autumn (March to May) is the perfect time to see Córdoba, Mendoza and the Lake District because of the spectacular foliage, the pleasant temperatures and the reduced crowds. Patagonia is best visited in summer, when the weather’s mild and there are plenty of transport services running. Skiers will want to catch the season which runs from mid-June to mid-October. January, February and July are holiday months and therefore the most expensive times for travel. Long distance buses are regular and efficient and Argentina’s train network, whilst somewhat limited, is a decent budget option. One recommended trip is on the 'Train of the Clouds' in the north-westerly province of Salta, which takes you through some picturesque and mountainous towns and villages on its way to the border with Chile.

Buenos Aires, known as 'Paris of the Southern Hemisphere' enjoys a thriving culture. Tango shows are a highlight: if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even take lessons. There are numerous galleries and museums and other interesting sights including the Obelisk, the Teatro Colon and the 18th century neo-classical Metropolitan Cathedral.

Argentina has several great cities, each with their own unique character. In Cordoba, for example, you can visit the Jesuit Block and Estancias, a complex of wonderfully preserved 17th and 18th century buildings including the Universidad Nacional, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the imposing 16th century Gothic Cordoba Cathedral.

Away from the cities, you can immerse yourself in various national parks including the World Heritage Iguaz National Park in the Misiones province, home to the incredible Iguaz Falls and endangered species such as the jaguar. Or head to Santa Cruz to visit Los Glaciares National Park, and the spectacular Perito Moreno Glacier - 30km in length and one of the only glaciers in the world that is advancing, at a rate of 2 metres per day. Witness enormous chunks of ice tumbling into the water with a loud crash, creating icebergs and large waves.

Also in Santa Cruz is the Cueva de las Manos (Cave of the Hands), which features cave art no less than 9,000 years old. For wild, barren and beautiful scenery, Patagonia is a must-see – particularly for those seeking adventure sports such as challenging hikes and mountain climbing.

The Argentine currency is the peso. Argentina is a good-value destination, although prices in Buenos Aires and Patagonia tend to be twice as high as elsewhere in the country.