Argentina Tour Packages

Argentina is a vibrant country that has the power to bewitch anybody with its beautiful serenades, streetside tango, legends of the gaucho culture, the mighty Andes, sizzling grills, mate tea, and of course football.

Argentina is a formidable adventure of a zippy city life bustling with gourmet cafes and bookstores, spirited street life buzzing in artsy nooks, and stunning boutiques under the gorgeous jacaranda trees. But that is not all.

The country surprises you with its Narnia doors leading up to deep blue lakes, lichen blooming Valdivian forests, unbelievably stunning Patagonia steppes, golden-hued grasslands and desserts, snowclad mountains, and rich wetlands swarming with biodiversity. Argentina is a mystical cocktail of many mundane and magical experiences.

Best Time to Visit Argentina 

Peak Season: November to February and July

Patagonia is a dreamland, a very popular attraction for tourists, and the most expensive too. It is bustling with wanderers and travelers between December and February. The beaches are fully packed from late December through January. From June to August, you can expect snowfalls at the ski resorts.

Shoulder Season: March to May and September to November

The most pleasant time to visit the capital city, Buenos Aires.

The shoulder seasons are the months to visit the country as the temperatures are pleasant, cool breeze with street nooks bustling with tango performances will sweep your heart away! This is the best time to visit the capital city, Buenos Aires. Saunters by the Lake District, spectacular foliage between March to April, and the grape harvests and wine festivals in the Mendoza region will be a perfect addition to your wanderlust in Argentina.

Non-peak Season: June to August

This is the perfect time to explore the northern regions of the country.
Many services at the beach resorts close during this time. Many mountain passes are also restricted due to snow. This is a good time to explore the northern regions of the country.

A Monthly Travel Guide

Here’s a monthly guide to the vibrant country and what you can expect through the year in Argentina. Some festivals and events are subject to change.

JANUARY : You can expect a porteño (a Buenos Aires resident) escaping the sweltering summer months in Buenos Aires by hitting the beaches and lake resorts. It tends to get crowded and expensive. Prices for many Argentina tour packages rise during this time of the year. This is also the peak season in Patagonia, so you can anticipate that holidays in Argentina could be a potential brunt to the pocket. If your budget permits, you can surely look into some exciting hotels with a personal pool space; certainly a great way to beat the heat. The country’s largest folk music festival Festival Nacional del Folklore takes place near the city of Córdoba.

FEBRUARY : The Iguazú region and the Andean deserts continue to be very hot; however, Mendoza’s grape harvest begins. The Carnaval celebration, Festival Nacional del Lúpulo, though not as spectacular and rocking as in Brazil , is very rowdy, especially in Gualeguaychú and Corrientes. The dates for the festival vary depending on the city. El Bolsón's hop festival tributes the core ingredient for its artisanal craft beers.

MARCH : It is time for calming, balmy rains to reach the capital city’s footsteps during March. The mellow breeze is just about perfect for your walks by the Lake District and slow picnics in  city gardens under the jacaranda blossoming trees. You will notice many city dwellers taking the weather as a great excuse to duck into Buenos Aries’s old-school bars with a hot cup of Café con Leche (milky coffee). The weather is decent, and the hotel expenses and the Argentina tour package prices drop around this time. The Iguazú falls are less humid and the north begins to cool. March 24 is observed as a public holiday regarding the martyrs and victims of Argentina’s military dictatorship. 

APRIL : You will notice a beautiful transformation of the Lake District forests from enchanting greens to warm hues. The rush in Patagonia also begins to clear around in April, so you might get lucky to find yourself decently priced hiking tours. Bariloche hosts Festival Nacional del Chocolate, the chocolate festival during the Easter week (its dates vary annually). Buenos Aires celebrates independent film festivals; BAFICI screenings are held across the city.

MAY : It’s finally late autumn and Buenos Aires is all cool as the city welcomes monsoon. This is a good time to visit Iguazú Falls. The Mendoza vineyards are less crowded around this time, with plantations still showing off their gorgeous red hues, autumn growing over! Many devotees make a 65 km pilgrimage, Día de Virgen de Luján, on May 8 to the pampas town of Luján in honor of the Virgin Mary.

JUNE : Beach resorts and Patagonia close during this time as the winter months begin. This is an ideal time to visit the rust-hued deserts of Andean Northwest and Iguazú Falls. Ushuaia, the southernmost city of the world, celebrates the longest night of the year with about 10 days of music and cultural festivals.

JULY : Ski season is at its peak in July, so skiers head off to the resorts around Bariloche, San Martín de Los Andes, and Mendoza. The whale-watching season also begins in areas around Península Valdés. On July 9, Argentina celebrates its independence day. The celebrations in Tucumán, where the country's independence was first declared, are observed to be more patriotic and intense. The countryside of Buenos Aires hosts Exposición Rural, 10-day agriculture, and livestock show. The events here include splendid displays of gaucho horseback-riding skills.

AUGUST : Buenos Aires is cold around this time and it is a great opportunity to visit theaters, art galleries, and museums in the city. World-class Tango dancers dazzle the stage and perform throughout the city during the Tango BA Festival y Mundial.

SEPTEMBER : With September, spring finally arrives, and this is observed at the peak season by almost all Argentina vacation packages as whale watching cruises are organized in Península Valdés to watch the magnificent southern whales and orcas. Music lovers should definitely check out the Ciudad Emergente festival, held at the Usina del Arte in La Boca. This is also the polo season in Buenos Aires. 

OCTOBER : This is a lovely time to visit Buenos Aires and central Argentina. The season is just starting in Patagonia, but it is not crowded yet. Spring has arrived, and beautiful flowers are blooming in the Lake District, and there is a week-long food festival to complement the mood of the season.

NOVEMBER : The Jacaranda trees in Buenos Aires are dazzling with their foliage covered with beautiful, bright purple flowers. This is a good time to visit beach resorts in Patagonia as the crowds have yet not seized the place and the Argentine holiday packages are still decently priced. The gauchos celebrate Fiesta de la Tradición (Festival of Tradition) in San Antonio de Areco or San José de Jáchal in this month. The capital city also hosts vibrant, annual pride parades in November.

DECEMBER : Summer has finally arrived and this is an excellent beach weather time just before it gets crowded at the resorts in January. This is ideal weather for outdoor activities. The penguin sighting and hiking seasons also start in Patagonia around this time. The capital city hosts the Buenos Aires Jazz Festival in December.

How to reach

Argentina is well connected via air routes. The majority of travelers prefer to arrive in Argentina via flights even though it can be slightly expensive compared to other countries in South America. Airport Ezeiza in the capital city, Buenos Aires, is a prominent air hub with many direct flights connecting the country to cities worldwide. LATMA Airlines and AerolÍneas Argentina are two of the most popular airlines in the country.

There are no direct flights between any Indian city to Buenos Aires. However, many connecting flight options are available via Germany, the Netherlands, and Europe. The duration of the journey can be anticipated somewhere between 30-35 hours, depending upon the layover time between connecting flights.

Argentina Tourism

From the bustle of Argentina’s capital metropolis Buenos Aires to the southernmost city of the world, Ushuaia peaking its way to Antarctica via the Beagle Channel, being in Argentina is like feeding off of your wanderlust bucket list. There’s something for everyone on this rich cultural and vibrant country. 

You can backpack to the foothills of the Andes or horseback ride to the gaucho towns, climb to the majestic Mount Aconcagua, the highest mountain in South America or ski your heart out to multiple snow-capped landscapes in Argentina. While the country’s towns and cities will heartily welcome you to their wine tasting tours, musicals, and tango festivals, the national parks surprise you with unbelievable sights bustling with biodiversity in numerous wild trails. 

Whether you choose to walk around the architectural wonders in Buenos Aires or cycle through the gorgeous rock formations in Salta, the country will sweep you off your feet with its magic and mundane.

The Best Beaches in Argentina

Argentina has almost 5000 km of coastline, and it is famous for its golden sand beaches with warm, clear blue waters. Here are some of the best beaches to explore while you’re in Argentina.

Playa Unión, Trelew : Known for dolphin-sighting

Playa Unión is known for its white-sand beaches, a great attraction for surfers. You find pockets of summer homes around the area and, restaurants serving fresh calamari, plenty of resorts with cafes, bars, and shops to explore. The main attraction to this place between April and December is toninas overas (Commerson’s dolphins) that can be spotted swimming close to the coast. This species of dolphin is endemic to the coast of Patagonia.

Playa Arazaty, Corrientes : Known for water-based activities

Playa Arazaty is a well-maintained beach with bathrooms, showers, and umbrellas. The tourists are guided not to dip in the waters until the beach is officially open. The water currents here are dangerous. This is a popular spot for fishing and jet skiing. This is also the best river beach in Corrientes.

Balneario La Florida, Rosario : Best for family picnics and excursions 

Balneario La Florida is the best beach in Rosario, with well functioning and safe bathing areas overseen by lifeguards. The beach is surrounded by many small, artsy markets, restaurants, play areas with Wi-Fi, making it a great hub for families to hang out together and relax.

Playa Bristol, Mar del Plata : Known for people-watching

Playa Bristol is the most popular beach Mar del Plata attracting Argentina’s largest coastal tourism to its appealing and refreshing Atlantic waters. The beach is located close to the city's commercial center, and the areas closest to the sea are open to the public. This beach is known for ‘people-watching’ as the place is bustling with different kinds of crowds strolling from playgrounds to plazas opening up to different sculptures and statues.

Playa Catrirte, San Martín de los Andes : Known for scenery

Playa Catrirte is a protected rocky beach about 5 km away from San Martin de los Andes. This beach is easily accessible by bus, car, or bike. Many visitors also love to walk down to the beach, providing one of the most beautiful landscape scenery. This is a great attraction for families and couples as the beach has some laid-back cafes and restaurants with a nice deck.

Argentina honeymoon packages and destinations

After your wedding carnival, a honeymoon to the vibrant and culturally Argentina is like a continuing carnival of adventures, respite, and much-needed romantic solitude. Argentina is a great country to explore with your special person. From sauntering in Buenos Aires and Ushuaia to pulling up your boots to trek up the stunning glaciers in Patagonia, from strolling in Mendoza vineyards to hiking the sun-baked canyons and rust-hued deserts in Parque Nacional Talampaya. Argentina will sweep you and your life partner off your feet for an experience of a lifetime.

Enjoy the sound of rivers and falls at Iguaza, watch orcas and dolphins Puerto Madryn, experience the natural wonders of Los Glaciares, lose all your worries and explore your wanderlust in the breathtaking landscapes of Salta during your honeymoon. Discover everything you need to know about Argentina and Thomas Cook’s Argentina honeymoon packages to make an informed decision and travel worry-free, taking advantage of the best deals.

Famous Places in Argentina

Glaciar Perito Moren : Nestled in Parque Nacional Los Glaciers' southern sector is locally famous as Glacier Moreno, Glacier Perito Moren. This stunning glacier stands like the most attractive centerpiece in the heart of Argentina and should definitely not be missed! It is 30 km long, 60 m high, and 5 km wide, with a constantly advancing phenomenon– up to 2 m per day revealing its brilliant claves from the face. The glacier is a two-hour journey from a small, tourist-friendly town called El Calafate. Glacier trekking tours are available for those interested.

Los Seismiles : If you want to witness gorgeous gold and rust-hued high deserts, you cannot miss this picturesque red rock escarpment known as Quebrada Angosturas looking out at the Chilean border. Los Seismiles are above 6000 m peaks, and their visual transfiguration from the desert into high country is stunning. It is a visual delight of icy wetlands bustling with flamingos, glacial streams, and yellow tundra, revealing the spectacular Seismiles behind the snow-capped peaks.

Palacio Barolo : Palacio Barolo is one of the most beautiful monuments in Buenos Aires. Inspired by Dante’s Divine Comedy, this 22-story building’s structure is divided into hell, heaven, and purgatory. Palacio Barolo was the tallest skyscraper in 1923 in South America designed by Italian architect Mario Palanti. It is best to be a part of the guided tour to explore this magnificent architecture with rich cultural and artistic references. Many Argentina walking tour packages have experts from the country to walk you through this stunning building.

Parque Nacional Lanín : Volcán Lanín extends to 150 kms from Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi in the south to Lago Ñorquinco in the north. It is one of the most beautiful hiking experiences, from Lake District to the picturesque snow-capped cone of Volcán Lanín. The area is bustling with vibrant biodiversity, similar to the Patagonia forests. The best base towns for this experience are San Martín de los Andes, Junín de los Andes and Aluminé.

Parque Nacional Talampaya : If rusty and sun-baked canyons and magnificent rock formations attract you, this dusty desert park is just the right place! Parque Nacional Talampaya holds gorgeous evidence of the erosive artistry of water. The views are just drop-dead gorgeous, from the sandstone cliffs to the surrounding mountainscapes. A trip through this experience might last for over 2-3 hours, and it's best if you’re with a tour guide. Take plenty of water to avoid heat strokes and sunscreen to protect yourself from the fiery sun. 

Parque Nacional Iguazú : If you are a fan of long walks, saunters, and wandering on your feet with breathtaking views all around you, then this park is your dream come true. This is one of the best honeymoon destinations in Argentina because of its breathtaking natural surroundings and nestling amidst all the famous Iguazú waterfalls. Whether it is a mundane stroll or an experience in the boat, or just a guided adventure in the park, whatever your couple's personality is, there’s a unique experience for everybody.

Garganta del Diablo : If you wish to experience what it’s like to be at the cusp of ‘Devil’s Throat,’ then you are at the right place– about a 2 km walkway across Río Iguazú leads you to Garganta del Diablo. This majestic place with deafening cascades and torrents of water concentrated in the region right under your walkway leading to a blurred and mystical destination is a thrilling experience that should certainly not be missed. The place is bustling with wildlife, so you are in for some enchanting strolls and hikes here.

Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi : You cannot visit Argentina and miss one of the most visited national parks in the country, Nahuel Huapi occupying 7500 sq km in the mountainous envelops of southwestern Neuquén and western Río Negro provinces. The park’s biggest attraction is its 100 km-long glacial remnant centerpiece, Lago Nahuel Huapi. Rafting and Kayaking are some of the popular attractions to its lakes, and the region also offers many beautiful trails for trekking and hiking.

What to eat in Argentina

It is the succulent meat, the pomp and glory of garden barbeques, a glass of wine, and a communal thrill for football that gets the Argentinians together. While you must definitely visit one of the stadiums for an unforgettable football experience, here are some must visit restaurants in Argentina !

Asado : If there’s one way to Argentina’s heart, it is via its national dish– Asado, originating from the gaucho culture. This is a barbeque dish, also known as parrillada. You can expect a variety of meat in this dish like beef, pork, ribs, sausages, and sometimes even a whole lamb or pig roasting in an open flame.

Chimichurri : Chimichurri is a green salsa prepared with finely chopped parsley, onion, garlic, chili pepper, oregano, olive oil with a dash of lemon or vinegar. The salsa is used to marinade the barbeque meat or to blanket the grilled ones.

Alfajores : Alfajores is a crumbly shortbread, like biscuits sandwiching jam, mousses, or chocolate dips between them.

Empanadas : Empanadas are deep-fried or baked South American pastries filled with savory or sweet stuffing.

Choripán : Choripán is your must-have prerequisite snack for a football match! Pork and beef chorizo is cooked over charcoal or wood flames and then packed between slices of bread along with caramelized onions, a variety of toppings, and chimichurri. 

Things to do in Argentina

Argentina’s cultural soul resides in its vibrance and a true porteño lives by the motto, dolce far nienta– the sweetness of doing nothing. So, if you want to explore the country in its art, culture, music, and food, here are some of the things you can do to have an immersive Argentine experience.

Horseback ride your way through the Gaucho ranch in San Antonio de Areco
The figure of the gaucho, a skilled horseman, is a prominent image of bravery and brawn. This is a popular folk symbol in Argentina, Brazil, South of Patagonia, and Uruguay. Enjoy a full-day tour to the town of San Antonio de Areco, one of the most traditional towns in Pampas. The tour will acquaint you with the culture, adventurous history, and development of Argentinian pampas. Go for a horseback ride and feel the lifestyle of a gaucho!

Snorkeling with Sea Lions in Puerto Madryn
Want to experience and play with animals in their natural habitat? If you want to experience a calm adventure with the Argentinian biodiversity then snorkeling is your way to go. Trained professionals and animals will be a part of this unique and unforgettable experience.

Touring in Cafayate Calchaqui valleys with wine
Immerse yourself into a full-day tour in the middle of one of the most beautiful landscapes in Argentina in Cafayate. You will be able to see unbelievable mountain formations like The Castles, The Devil’s Throat, and The Amphitheater in this day tour. And finally, in the town of Cafayate, you can slow down with a glass of wine after your arduous excursions in the valley.

Explore the magic and marvel of Tango in Buenos Aires
Plan an elegant dinner preceded by a magnetic evening at Piazzolla Tango! Located in the heart of Guemes Gallery, Piazzolla Tango is one of the most entertaining shows in Argentina with some of the best performing artists in the world.

What to shop in Argentina

From polo boots to a bottle of Malbec wine, when in Argentina, shop for an experience, something beyond your shot glass souvenirs!

Mate Set : Mate tea is the heart of the local Argentinian culture. This set comprises a matecito, a hollowed gourd, a bombilla (metal straw), a hot water flask, and a bag of herby yerba leaves. The drink is either enjoyed bitter, amagro, or sweetened with sugar, dulce.

Shop at: Arandu, Paraguay 1259, Buenos Aires

Leather Bag : Argentina produces the best leather one can purchase. Buenos Aires is filled with street shops and other luxury brands offering you a range of designs and varieties of leather bags that you cannot miss.

Shop at: La Boutique, Faena Hotel + Universe, Martha Salotti 445, Buenos Aires

Cowhide Rug : Rugs are one of the most popular Argentinian souvenirs to remember the country by.

Shop at: Calma Chicha, Honduras 4909, Buenos Aires

Dulce de Leche and Alfajores : Dulce de Leche is the country’s famous caramel sauce which goes great with cakes, icecreams, croissants, pieces of bread, and other desserts. Alfajores are stuffed shortbreads that go well with your tea or coffee.

Shop at : Tikal Chocolates and Havanna, Av. Federico Lacroze 2306, Buenos Aires

Rhodocroiste Jewellery : Rhodocroiste is considered the gem of love and this is the country’s national pink stone. This is referred to as Inca Rose, the quality and price of the stone and design or material of jewelry vary from store to store.

Shop at: Delgè, Hotel Sofitel, Arroyo 841, Buenos Aires 

Where to stay in Argentina

From the coziest resorts with private pools to budget-friendly dorm sharing hostels, from homelike Airbnbs to backpackers crashing at Patagonia luxury huts, Argentina is a great country that has unique accommodation options available for all kinds of travelers. Shared apartments, local chain hostels, student residences, homestays, private apartments, historical boutiques, traditional penthouses, you can explore all your accommodation options with your Argentina vacation packages or independently via tour resources in the country.

If you wish to experience the luxury of relaxing in fancy resorts by the Argentinian beaches, plan your visit in the shoulder season or just before the peak season. 

Adventurous Things to do

Of course there is sweetness in doing nothing, but if you want to experience Argentina in all its colors, you have to get moving! Surprise yourself with the marvel of glacier trekking in Patagonia or the Martial Mountains in Ushuaia or go horseback riding your way into the gaucho traditions at the Andean foothills. 

Just like Chile, Argentina is also known as a skiing destination. If you are traveling to the country during winters, you will find many skiing locations with breathtaking views like Las Leñas in Mendoza, Cerro Catedral and Chapelco in Bariloche, Mount Castor, Martial mountains in Ushuaia. If you are a cycling buff, you might want to surprise yourself with stunning, rugged terrains in Argentina. 

Hike to see ancient cave paintings in Guachipas or cycle into the stunning landscape of the rust-hued deserts, rock formations, and rough terrains in Salta and Cafayate. Try fly fishing in Limay, Manso, and Pichi Leufu Rivers of Nahuel Huapi National Park. And if you are a trained climber with some mountaineering experience then definitely do not miss out on climbing the most challenging and rewarding Mount Aconcagua, South America’s highest peak.

Interesting facts about Argentina

Did you know that Argentina’s sassy Tango was born in the brothels of Buenos Aires? This sensual dance form was not always accepted and was highly disregarded and frowned upon by the elite class. Whether it was a colonized gaze on Argentina’s performing arts or a ‘cleansing’ of the tribal ways of the Shamans in the southernmost city of the world, Ushuaia, Argentina’s rich cultural history and popularity has in its pandora’s box many interesting secrets to reveal. Argentina is named after the precious metal, Argentium, a Latin word for silver. This is the only country to be named after silver and it was so because the original settlers believed that this is a land blessed with silver! This is a country famous for its meat, dairy, and leather production. And even though it has been titled a developing country, Argentina was the first in the world to use fingerprints to solve crimes. The country also legalized same-sex marriage in 2010 (it prides itself in having the world’s first baby legally brought up by two fathers).

Argentina Culture

Argentina’s culture is a unique blend of Latin American and indigenous traditions and European customs. The country is proud of its performing arts, rich history, stunning natural landscapes, delicious meat and dairy products, and finally its Fútbol, football. The majority of Argentines speak Spanish as their first or second language. They are very expressive about their feelings, you’ll feel their Hi and Hola’s just as much as their blunt and direct communication. They speak with their physical gestures and body language as passionately as they express themselves with words. People are warm, helpful, and unreserved. This multicultural country embraces its Mate, Asado, and Tango as passionately as its gaucho and indigenous traditions. 

Argentina Visa for Indians 

Documents required for Argentina visa: An original Passport with at least 6 months validity, a Visa Application form, two colored recent passport-sized photographs (3.5*4.5 cm), a personal cover letter sharing the purpose of travel, an original bank statement that is stamped and updated for last three months, Income Tax Returns/Form 16 (last 3 years), an International Credit Card Copy if available, air tickets and proof of return flight tickets, a proof of accommodation, supporting documents as per your occupation, travel itinerary in Spanish, and preferably travel insurance for the travel.

All applications for Tourist Visa and Business Visa to travel to Argentina are submitted to the Thomas Cook visa branch and are then forwarded to the Argentina Embassy (Consular Section of the Embassy of the Argentine Republic in New Delhi, and to the Consulate General of the Argentine Republic in Mumbai for Indians residing in Maharashtra and Karnataka). Each applicant is scheduled to visit the Embassy/Consulate for a personal interview with the Consular Officer. This interview is mandatory. To avoid any inconveniences, the applicants are advised to submit their application at least 30 days prior to the proposed date of departure.

Foreign currency

You can receive the best updated Argentine Peso currency rates at Thomas Cook's website. The application process is easy and hassle-free– choose the currency and your desired amount to be converted, share your delivery and traveler details, make the payment online, and get a receipt of your forex order and confirmation. Check the exchange rate for Argentine Peso in the link.

Other such places to visit

Argentina is one of the peppiest destinations in South America. But Argentina is just one of the many bright feathers in South America’s rich cultural cap. Find yourself mystified in the world’s largest salt flat in Bolivia (click here), sinking in the mysterious lifestyle of a cozy mining town Ouro Preto in Brazil (click here), among the giant and scenic glaciers in Torres del Paine National Park in Chile (click here), in the middle clouds blankets at the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve in Costa Rica  (click here), in the historical adventures of Guatemala (click here), trekking the Inca trail in Machu Picchu in Peru (click here), and finally experience the wonder of Angel Falls in Venezuela  (click here).

Discover everything you need to know about Latin American destinations and Thomas Cook’s Argentina tour packages to make an informed decision and travel worry-free, taking advantage of the best deals.