Road Trips in Argentina

While travelling around Argentina, you can't miss its capital and the most popular city - Buenos Aires. It is such a colourful place that it has received many nicknames - most often, you'll come across the Capital of Tango and the Paris of Latin America. 

While sightseeing around the city, you should definitely see its most interesting attractions, including Plaza de Mayo, around which you'll notice headquarters of many important institutions, Casa Rosada, the president's seat, and the 18th-century Metropolitan Cathedral. A must-see highlight is also La Boca, with the extremely scenic Caminito street, and the bustling Calle Florida, along which you'll find numerous shops, restaurants, and service points. 

The fans of diving should definitely direct their steps to Puerto Madryn, which is considered the National Capital of Diving. Not only will you be pleased by the superb conditions for discovering the fascinating underwater world, but you'll also have plenty of opportunities to do water sports. An indisputable asset of this place is a well-developed tourist infrastructure offering restaurants and hotels of varied standard. 

Argentina is a country full of natural wonders that are nowhere else to be found. You can experience it by discovering the Tierra del Fuego National Park, located 12 km from Ushuaia. The city itself is a very attractive place tourist-wise - you can participate in organised cruises along the Beagle Channel or travel to a popular ski resort - Cerro Castor - located only 26 km away. 

If you want to learn more about glaciers, you should visit El Calafate, located in Patagonia. It is an ideal starting point for the exploration of Los Glaciares National Park, including the imposing Perito Moreno glacier. An additional attraction is Glaciarium - a modern center devoted to glaciers. It consists of a main hall and three exhibition rooms with a total surface area of 25,000 m2. 

Moving slightly north, you should visit Bariloche, where you can pursue almost all types of outdoor activities. It offers perfect conditions for water sports, sunbathing, climbing, trekking, and skiing. Nearby, you'll find the most important ski center in South America - Cerro Catedral. The place is also famous for top-notch architecture and, interestingly, it is located in the scenic Nahuel Huapí National Park. 

Argentina is full of historical landmarks, old churches, art galleries, and interesting museums. All of that can be found in such cities as Salta, Cordoba, or Mendoza. The first of them will also impress you with its colonial architecture and unique ambiance. Don't forget to get on top of Cerro San Bernando which will guarantee you breathtaking views of the city and the Lerma Valley. Also, while traveling around the northern part of the country, you shouldn't miss Puerto Iguazú and the nearby waterfalls which are considered one of the top highlights in Argentina. 

Argentina offers several incredible road trip options, here are 3 of the best:

• Route 40: This is one of the country's most famous road trips, stretching from the southern city of Bariloche to the northern city of La Quiaca. The route takes you through the heart of Patagonia, offering breathtaking views of glaciers, mountains, and lakes. Along the way, you'll pass by small villages and encounter wildlife such as guanacos, foxes, and condors.

• Wine Country: The Mendoza region is known for its wine production, and taking a road trip through the vineyards is a great way to experience the region's beauty and culture. The route takes you through the Andes Mountains and the valleys of the Central Sierras, with stops at some of the country's most famous wineries, including Bodega Catena Zapata and Bodega Norton.

• The Atlantic Coast: The road trip along the Atlantic coast offers stunning views of the ocean, sandy beaches, and lush vegetation. The route begins in Mar del Plata and ends in Bahia Blanca, taking you through several small towns and fishing villages along the way. This road trip is perfect for those who want to experience the natural beauty of Argentina and enjoy some outdoor activities, such as surfing and beach volleyball.

Each of these road trips offers a unique experience, allowing you to explore the diverse landscapes and cultures of Argentina. Whether you're looking for breathtaking scenery, outdoor adventures, or cultural experiences, these road trips are sure to offer an unforgettable journey.

Argentina offers a number of travel opportunities. Residents and tourists can travel by trains, taxis, and use a well-developed bus system. Buses are usually comfortable and offer routes to distant destinations. A popular means of transport is also cars which allow holidaymakers to move between large cities quickly and conveniently.

In Argentina, there's also a possibility to rent a vehicle with a driver (the so-called remis) as well as travel in your own rental car. Try to use the services of only certified car rental companies that can be found at international airports. 

If you are planning to go off the beaten track, you should definitely try a 4x4 vehicle which will allow you to quickly cover distances across unpaved surfaces. Bear in mind that you need to be 25 in order to rent a car. 

Roads in Argentina are mostly well-maintained and are part of a well-developed network connecting the most important places in the country. At your disposal, you'll have national and local roads as well as toll highways. They offer wide multi-lane roads, owing to which the trip will be pleasant. 

You might come across police patrols near the main entrance and exit roads. Police checks are very meticulous, and police officers have a tendency to force bribes. Some motorists can be surprised by the fact that traffic lights on junctions are usually located after pedestrian crossings. 

While travelling on Argentinian roads, try to stay cautious. Pedestrians casually crossing the street aren't the only problem as native motorists break even the most basic traffic rules. That's why you shouldn't be surprised to see them driving in a slalom-like fashion or overtaking you on the right - that's a common phenomenon in Argentina.  

The roads in Argentina, especially those in rural areas, are often poorly marked. Sometimes, you can come across road signs that provide wrong information or are totally unnecessary in that particular place. These are usually leftovers of the long finished road reconstruction, and even though motorists can enjoy a better surface, they'll get confused by the road signs. 

Before hitting the road, you should definitely make sure that you have a full tank of petrol, especially if you are planning to cover long distances. To stay on the safe side, take a spare fuel canister along as Argentina can't boast too many petrol stations and they are pretty scarce in the country. 

In Argentina, there exist the following speed limits: 40 km/h - 60 km/h (built-up areas), 80 km/h - 110 km/h (outside built-up areas), and 100 km/h - 130 km/h (highways). For safety reasons, it's best to decrease your speed slightly as Argentinian motorists are known for their bravado. A moment of inattention and you'll end up participating in a car accident. 

Here are some things to consider when taking a road trip in Argentina:

• Timing: The best time to take a road trip in Argentina depends on the specific route you're taking. For example, the Atlantic Coast is best visited in the summer months (December to February), while Patagonia can be quite cold and windy during that same time. Consider the weather and road conditions when planning your trip.

• Planning: Before hitting the road, plan your route and make sure you have a good understanding of the driving conditions in the area. Be aware of any road closures or detours that may impact your trip, and plan for rest stops and overnight stays along the way.

• Preparation: Make sure your vehicle is in good condition and that you have all the necessary documents, including a valid driver's license and proof of insurance. It's also important to pack appropriately for the weather and have supplies such as food, water, and first aid kits on hand.

• Safety: When driving in Argentina, be aware of the local road rules and customs, and drive defensively. Avoid driving at night, especially in rural areas, and be cautious when passing other vehicles on the road.

By planning ahead and being prepared, you can make the most of your road trip in Argentina and enjoy the country's stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage.

The best time to take a road trip in Argentina depends on the specific route you're taking. Here are a few things to consider:

• Summer (December to February): This is the best time to visit the Atlantic Coast, where you can enjoy warm weather and outdoor activities such as surfing and beach volleyball.

• Spring (September to November): This is an ideal time to visit the Andes Mountains and the Mendoza region, as the weather is warm and pleasant, and the vineyards are in full bloom.

• Winter (June to August): This is the best time to visit Patagonia, where you can enjoy clear skies and crisp weather, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities such as hiking and camping.

Overall, the best time to take a road trip in Argentina depends on your specific travel plans and interests. Be sure to check local weather conditions and road conditions before setting out on your trip, and plan accordingly.

Argentina is an exciting and budget-friendly destination for a road trip, with a range of options to suit different budgets and travel styles. The cost of a day, week, or month per person on a road trip in Argentina depends on several factors such as the type of accommodation, food, activities, and transportation.

Accommodation costs can vary depending on the type of lodging you choose. Budget options like hostels or campsites can be found for as little as $10-20 USD per night, while mid-range hotels or Airbnb apartments may cost between $50-100 USD per night. Luxury accommodations can cost upwards of $200 USD per night.

Food is generally affordable in Argentina, with a variety of options available. Street food, local markets, and casual restaurants can offer meals for as little as $5-10 USD, while mid-range dining options may cost between $15-30 USD per meal. Upscale dining options and fine dining restaurants can cost upwards of $50 USD per meal.

Transportation costs will depend on whether you choose to rent a car or rely on public transportation. Renting a car can cost between $30-50 USD per day, with additional costs for gas and tolls. Public transportation options, such as buses or trains, are more affordable but may require more planning and scheduling.

Activities and sightseeing costs will vary depending on your interests and preferences. Argentina offers a range of activities, from hiking in the Andes Mountains to wine tasting in Mendoza. Many of the national parks have affordable entry fees, typically between $5-10 USD per person.

Overall, a road trip in Argentina can be an affordable and exciting way to explore the country's diverse landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant cities. With careful planning and budgeting, travelers can experience all that Argentina has to offer without breaking the bank.

Here are some guidebooks and road maps that can be helpful for a road trip in Argentina:

• Lonely Planet Argentina: This guidebook covers everything from major cities to off-the-beaten-path destinations in Argentina, including maps, practical information, and insider tips.

• Moon Argentina: This guidebook provides a comprehensive overview of Argentina, including recommended itineraries, cultural insights, and maps.

• Rough Guide to Argentina: This guidebook offers a detailed look at Argentina's culture, history, and natural beauty, along with recommendations for where to eat, stay, and explore.

• Argentina Road Atlas: This detailed road atlas covers all of Argentina and includes detailed maps of major cities and towns, as well as information on attractions, accommodations, and services.

• Michelin Argentina Map: This map covers the entire country and includes information on major roads, distances, and points of interest.

• National Geographic Argentina Adventure Map: This detailed map is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, with information on hiking trails, national parks, and other outdoor attractions.

Remember to check the publication date of any guidebooks or maps you consider purchasing, as information can quickly become outdated.