South America | Destination Guides

From gauchos to glaciers — 6 things to do in Argentina

Recently updated on July 27th, 2023 at 11:30 am

Whether you’re looking to experience the great outdoors, soak up the arts scene or taste some of South America’s finest cuisine, there’s no shortage of exciting things to do in Argentina. From breathtaking scenery to late-night dance shows, there’s truly something for everyone in South America’s second largest country. Here are the 6 best things to do in Argentina with Trafalgar.

1. Watch a tango show in Buenos Aires

No Latin American experience is complete without live music and a little bit of dancing. While visiting Argentina’s capital city, get transported back in time with a live tango performance. Known as the birthplace of tango, there’s no better place than Buenos Aires to witness Argentina’s national dance in action.

Traditionally performed in cabarets, restaurants and social clubs, today, you can watch dancers perform at tango dance halls, also called milongas, any night of the week. While most milongas don’t heat up until midnight (or later!), there are plenty of tango shows that you can watch earlier in the evening over a glass of red wine and steak. If you’re lucky, you might even catch professional dancers and musicians performing on the street — artists are known to appear in San Telmo street market on Sundays.

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2. Visit Perito Moreno Glacier in Los Glaciares National

Located in UNESCO-listed Los Glaciares National Park lies the famous Perito Moreno Glacier, a breath-taking display surrounded by mountains and turquoise water. More than a photo opportunity, there is plenty to do at Perito Moreno. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not experiencing the glacier by foot? Perito Moreno offers guided glacier treks for all levels that are an extraordinary way to experience the crevices, caves and crystal-clear water up close and personal.

If you’re drawn to the water, opt for a boat tour where you can view the north wall of the glacier from a completely different perspective. The site also has walkways and viewing balconies opposite the glacier offering spectacular views. No matter the journey you choose, be sure to end the day with whiskey on the rocks, where the “rocks” come directly from the glacier itself. 

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3. Chocolate tasting in Bariloche 

Bariloche is a small Patagonian city that’s often referred to as “Little Switzerland” for its ski resorts, its Alpine village and, you guessed it, its chocolate. Coined the chocolate capital of Argentina in 2015, it’s a must-visit to satisfy your sweet tooth.

The best way to experience the delicious dessert offering is through visiting the quaint shops that populate the town. Many of the speciality shops are on the Bartolomé Mitre strip, where you can sample chocolate in the form of fondue, hot chocolate or chocolate flakes. Is your mouth watering yet?

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4. Head into The Pampas to learn about the life of the gauchos

Away from the glaciers and mountains lies The Pampas, a rural region of sprawling grasslands in central Argentina. The Pampas is a must-visit area to soak up the rich culture and history of the country.

While visiting The Pampas you can learn all about the gauchos who inhabit the region’s estancias (cattle ranches). Gauchos are traditionally described as nomadic individuals who look after the cattle and land, often on horseback wearing baggy trousers, ponchos and wide-brimmed hats.

While touring the towns and villages, don’t miss the opportunity to experience an asado, a social gathering that’s deeply rooted in gaucho culture. No asado is complete without flame-grilled meat and maté, a tea-like drink that’s made in a gourd and passed around to be shared among family and friends.

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5. Taste the finest beef in the world, washed down with a beautiful glass of Malbec

Not only are there plenty of things to do in Argentina, there are plenty of things to eat and drink. No matter which part of the country you visit, you can satisfy your inner foodie with the world’s finest beef and a fabulous selection of wine.

Argentina is known for its beef, the best of which comes from The Pampas. The grass-fed beef is prepared in a such a way that requires little to no seasoning, except a sprinkle of salt, resulting in a delicious and tender steak that will leave you wanting more.

What pairs perfectly with steak? A smooth red wine. Lucky for you, Argentina is famous for both. Not only is it one of the largest producers of wine, the region of Mendoza, known for its Malbec, has been named one of the nine greatest wine capitals in the world.

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6. Visit Iguassu Falls from the Argentinian side

On the border of Argentina and Brazil lies the Iguassu Falls, a breathtaking natural attraction of 275 waterfalls spanning almost 3 kilometers. While you can experience Iguassu from either country, the Argentinian side provides access to the main attraction, the Devil’s Throat, which is the tallest waterfall in the system that drops more than 262 feet.

Situated in the UNESCO-listed Iguassu National Park, the attraction offers a myriad of activities and experiences within. You can take in the sights and sounds by foot through a system of walking trails or experience it by train or boat. No matter how you choose to experience Iguassu, keep a close eye out for the range of wildlife that call Iguassu home, from colourful birds to monkeys to over 2,000 species of plants.

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What things to do in Argentina are at the top of your wish list? Let us know in the comments, and start planning your adventure to Argentina with Trafalgar’s range of tours today.

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