Argentina's national currency is the Argentine peso. It has the same symbol ($) as the US dollar.

Argentina is known for its iconic landmarks like Iguazú Falls and the historic city of Buenos Aires. It’s famous for the tango and delicious cuisine, especially beef and steak asado, and wine. The country also boasts stunning natural landscapes, from the glaciers of Patagonia to the wine regions of Mendoza, and rainforests of the north.

Tipping for good service in Argentina is customary, but not mandatory. Generally, it's customary to tip about 10% of the bill. For exceptional service, consider tipping between 15% and 20%.

American and Canadian citizens generally do not need a visa to visit Argentina for tourism or business for stays of up to 90 days. It is advisable to always check visa requirements prior to travel with the U.S Department of State or the Canadian Government website.

The best time to visit Argentina varies by region, but the country is great to explore year-round. Patagonia is most accessible from December to March, while Buenos Aires is best visited during cooler months in July and August. Overall, visiting between March and May or September through November offers pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and a more relaxed experience.

Argentina’s weather varies widely across its regions due to its size and diverse topography. The climate ranges from subtropical in the north, with hot summers and mild winters, to cold and temperate in central regions, including Buenos Aires. In Patagonia and the southern areas, the weather is generally cooler and can be quite harsh, especially in winter, with cold temperatures and wind. The Andes mountain region sees snow in winter, ideal for skiing.

The highest peaks in the Andes have permanent snow and ice cover. The southern parts of Argentina, including Tierra del Fuego, experience frequent frost and snow, particularly during winter. Ski resorts like Cerro Castor and Cerro Catedral are popular for winter sports.

For Argentina, the standard plug types are Type C and Type I. The voltage is 220V, and the frequency is 50Hz.

ATM access in Argentina is generally widespread, especially in urban areas like Buenos Aires, Mendoza, and popular tourist destinations. You can usually find ATMs in banks, shopping centers, airports, and along main streets. Most ATMs accept international cards such as Visa, MasterCard, and Maestro, but it’s advisable to carry some cash as a backup, especially whenvisiting rural areas.

Generally, tap water in Argentina is safe to drink. Though in small settlements or rural areas, it's best to stick to bottled or filtered water for safety. In larger cities and towns, tap water is treated with chlorine, which might affect its taste and smell.

Packing for a country as varied as Argentina should be tailored to the regions you plan to visit and the time of year. Essentials include comfortable clothing for sightseeing, layered clothing for varying temperatures and warm gear if you’re visiting Patagonia or the Andes. Don’t forget comfortable walking shoes, a hat and sunglasses for sun protection, and essentials like sunscreen and insect repellent.

For a comprehensive experience, allocate at least 10-14 days to explore Argentina’s key highlights such as Buenos Aires, Patagonia, Mendoza and Iguassu Falls. If you have limited time, a 5-7 day itinerary focusing on one or two regions, like Buenos Aires and Iguassu, can provide a memorable snap shot of the country.

Highlights of Argentina include the capital Buenos Aires, with its vibrant neighborhoods, tango shows and historic sites. Iguassu Falls, one of the world's most stunning waterfalls is located in the northeast, while in the south Patagonia offers breathtaking landscapes, glaciers and outdoor adventures. For wine lovers Mendoza is famous for its world-class wineries and mountain views, and the Perito Moreno Glacier in Los Glaciares National Park is not to be missed.

Empanadas are Argentina’s most popular food, versatile savory pastries filled with spiced beef, chicken, cheese, ham or vegetables. Sweet versions include dulce de leche, quince jam, or sweet potato paste, enjoyed as snacks, light lunches or meals.