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From the treacherous peaks of the Andes to Arctic Patagonia and everything in between, Argentina is a country beloved for its vast landscapes and opportunities for adventure at every turn.
Whether it’s fishing, bird-watching, hiking or horse-riding, Argentina has something to bring out everyone’s inner explorer. Here are a few highlights:
Bird watching from Buenos Aires to Iguazú Falls
Thanks to Argentina’s sheer size and geographical diversity, knowing where to start can be a daunting task.
Germán Pugnali, Bird expert and Guide at Seriema Nature Tours, says: “The northeast has two main sites to visit: the Iberá Wetlands, a huge ecosystem and of the largest protected areas of the country, and the Atlantic Forest habitats in Misiones province, where of course Iguazú is the crown jewel.”
Along with unrivalled natural beauty, the vibrant bird species found here are a must-see.
Pugnali says: “My six favourite birds in Iguazú are the Black-fronted Piping-Guan, Purple-crowned Plovercrest, Spot-billed Toucanet, Blond-crested Woodpecker, Swallow-tailed Manakin, Green-headed Tanager.”
To find even more unique species with an added twist - head north-west to the Andes and its valleys. Along with its jaw-dropping snow-capped peaks, ancient ruins and volcanoes, the longest mountain range in the world is home to several endemic bird species, which have evolved in isolation. Visit the provinces of Tucuman, Salta and Jujuy for the best bird-watching opportunities.
Live like a gaucho in the Pampas
Travel back in time and experience life as a fearless, expert horseman and cattle rancher from the 18th century.
Today, Estancias (grand European-style ranches-turned-hotels) are beautiful relics of past colonisation which offer guests a chance to ride horses by day while enjoying traditional asado (barbecue) and tales of gauchos past under starry skies.
Jane Williams, owner of the Patagonia estancia Huechahue says saddling up is the best way to experience the grandeur of the vast lowlands of the Pampas.
“On horseback, you are higher and have a much better view than on foot,” she says. “My favourite experience is sitting on top of the cliff watching the display the condors put on when they come to roost.
“What is so magical about Patagonia is the feeling that you are a part of it, rather than just passing by.”
Go fly-fishing for golden dorado in the Paraná Delta
A short drive from Buenos Aires takes you to angler heaven in one of the most spectacular Deltas in the world. The Paraná River Delta - where the Corrientes and Paraná Rivers meet - is 13,500 square-kilometres of rivers, rainforest and a thousand tiny islands. Unsurprisingly, this one-of-a-kind delta system is teeming with fish, especially the indigenous (and enormous) golden dorado, which can weigh as much as 9 kg (20 lbs).
The yellow Golden Dorado is a challenge to catch thanks to its jumping abilities and combative nature. It takes strength and stamina to hook one of these, but its delicious flavour - and the impressive photos you’ll get holding it - will no doubt make the struggle worth it.
There’s also enough salmon, catfish, palometa and surubi to keep you entertained for days whether you’re camping under the stars or resting your head in one of the luxury lodges nearby.
Scale Fitz Roy in Los Glaciares National Park
Or at least get a good peak from below… The most popular, and the most beautiful, hike in Argentina’s trekking capital is not necessarily the most difficult. The medium skill-level trek takes nearly eight hours from the town of El Chalten to the base of Monte Fitz Roy at ‘Laguna de los Tres.’
It’s a grueling ascent - particularly the last couple hours- but the stunning turquoise lagoon at the foot of jagged, snow-capped Fitz Roy means it’s worth every laboured step. And for those craving even more adventure, grab one of the many experienced local guides and let them guide you through the maze of glacier tunnels in the ice field below.
Kayak with a family of whales
Argentina-based blogger Erin Mushaway says: “Peninsula Valdes in Chubut has some of the country’s best wildlife viewing. Many species come here to breed every year, including the Southern Right Whale, penguins, sea lions and seals.”
A UNESCO World Heritage site chock-full of bays, lagoons and gulfs, Peninsula Valdés is home to 400 kilometres of the coastline and vast opportunities to spot whales who like to hang out close to shore.
To see Southern Right Whales - and maybe even their calves - up close and personal, kayak in the calm waters off Puerto Madryn or Puerto Piramides between August and October. Spotting them is a sure thing this time of year, and yet another perk of whale watching in Valdés. Do a guided day trip or spread it across a few days, stopping at secluded beaches and coves along the way for some unforgettable waterside camping.
Though not quite as guaranteed, the best time to catch a glimpse of an Orca near the beach or while hunting its next meal is between March and April.