Pin In The Map: Part 1
Buenos Aires is the must visit place when coming to Argentina, but for those of you who also enjoy some time in the wild, here are some of StayUnico’s favorite cities to make your vacation complete.
Argentina is one of the top 10 largest countries in the world, and it may seem impossible to see all that it has to offer. There is much more than wine, steak and tango – This country holds a secret in every corner. Check-out our guide for some of our recommended must-go places and be ready to be blown away!
| IGUAZÚ FALLS |
Province: MisionesFlight time from Buenos Aires: 1 hour, 50 minutes
Shared between Argentina and Brazil, Iguazú Falls are a year round go-to attraction for both tourists and locals. Words fall short and they need to be seen to believe. The power and constant noise of the falling water is something that won’t be forgotten, and the most impressive of it all: the “Devil’s Throat” the highest of them all at 80 m height. Full moon walks and boat rides are available within the park. For more information, visit the National Park website here.
Tip: please note that some countries require a Visa to enter to Brazil, so make sure you have that all set before traveling if you wish to visit the falls from their side as well.
| CALAFATE |
Province: Santa CruzFlight time from Buenos Aires: 3 hours, 30 minutes
Glaciar Perito Moreno is the place to visit when you are in Calafate, just 80 km away from the city. In constant expansion, the glacier spreads for over 250 km2 (97 sq miles), and has been one of Argentina’s main tourist attractions for decades. Trekking tours on the ice are available, as well as all-day tour boat cruising Lake Argentino, where you can see the majestic Glaciar Perito Moreno in all its beauty.
Tip: the best time of the year to go to Calafate is during January and February, Argentina’s summer season. It is also the most expensive.
| PENÍNSULA DE VALDÉS |
Province: ChubutFlight time from Buenos Aires: 1 hour, 45 minutes
This peninsula located on the southern part of Argentina on the Atlantic Ocean is home to some of the most impressive wildlife in the country. From elephant seals, sea lions, guanacos and several types of seabirds, its major attraction is the ballena franca austral (southern right whale). Even though whales appear every year in June, the best time of the year to visit is between September and November, where the maximum number is reached.
Tip: another must-see attraction is Punta Tombo, 170 km south of Peninsula de Valdes, home to the largest colony of Magellanic penguins in the world!
| PURMAMARCA |
Province: JujuyFlight time from Buenos Aires: 2 hours, 20 minute flight + 2.5 hours drive
The best way to get to Purmamarca is flying to Salta, and drive North to get there. The main attraction is the Cerro de los Siete Colores (Seven Color Hill), showing 7 layers of distinctive colorful rock, but there is more than meets the eye. The dirt roads and adobe houses are the perfect setting for local artisans to sell their colorful aguayos (blankets) and local food. And even see some baby llamas!
Tip: just another hour drive north from Purmamarca you will find the salt flats, set over 3300 meters above sea level. The contrast between the white, cracked salt flats and the blue sky is totally worth the visit. Make sure you bring your sunglasses!
| USHUAIA |
Province: Tierra del FuegoFlight time from Buenos Aires: 3 hours, 45 minutes
Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world, is definitely worth a visit for those who do not fear the cold. Nicknamed “The End of the World” and surrounded by mountains, the Beagle Channel and its port, it is a hub for skiers from all over the world and their tracks can be used several months a year due to the constant cold weather in the region. In winter months the average temperature is 0 ºC (32 F). Make sure you pack warm clothes!
Tip: Ushuaia is also a gateway to Antarctica cruises. Most expeditions last from 9 to 12 days, but there are some as long as 22 nights, including a visit to the Falkland Islands.
Check out Pin In The Map: Part 2 and some more of StayUnico’s favorite cities in Argentina.
