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Patagonia Kayak Tours

Navigate the crystalline waters of Patagonia with kayak tours that plunge you into nature’s embrace. Glide amidst towering icebergs, alongside dramatic fjords, and through tranquil lakes, each stroke revealing the region’s untouched beauty. Whether you’re skimming the shores of remote glaciers or venturing into serene hidden bays, kayaking in Patagonia offers an immersive water-bound journey, blending adventure with awe in every ripple and reflection.

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El Dorado Kayak

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El Dorado Kayak - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Perito Moreno Glacier Sea Kayaking Trips

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Top 8 Kayaking Tours in Patagonia

by   Leandro Zamprogno Travel Specialist in Trips SouthAmerica

Unveiling the Best Kayaking Experiences

South america is full of places where one can admire the beauty of nature paddling; here is our selection of the best experiences we suggest for kayaking in patagonia, either argentina or chile..

For some years now active tourism is a non-stop growing way of enjoying vacations. This philosophy cares about the ecological and social aspects of the destination but also includes a pinch of thrill that every adventure traveller seeks on a trip.

Among the different categories or activities that we can find in this trend there’s one that is particularly demanded: kayaking. Kayaking is part of the amazing variety of adventure activities that can be done in South America.

This marvellous activity in which the tourist moves across water with the use of a kayak and paddles gives them at the same time adrenaline, freedom and a different perspective of a destination that might not be new to them but they are enjoying in a different way.

Here is our selection of the best experiences we suggest for kayaking in Patagonia , either Argentina or Chile :

1 – Kayaking with Whales

This activity takes place in the Valdes Peninsula, a place blessed with a fantastic biodiversity and sea wildlife.

Located along the Atlantic coast, in the north east of Chubut Province in Argentina, it is an important nature reserve which was listed as a Natural World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1999.

The coastline is inhabited by marine mammals, like sea lions, elephant seals and fur seals. Southern right whales can be found in Nuevo and San José Gulfs, protected bodies of water located between the peninsula and the  Patagonian mainland . These baleen whales (or great whales) come here between May and December, for mating and giving birth, because the water in the gulf is quieter and warmer than in the open sea. Orcas can be found off the coast, in the open sea off the peninsula, especially during February.

Recommended Months June to December.

Distance 10 km., duration 6 hours., requirement medium.

The kayak experience begins entering the waters of the San José Gulf and from a silent kayak we will have the possibility of observing the Southern Right Whale, a small colony of Sea Lions and Seabirds. Then there will be a stop at a small bay to enjoy a varied lunch and trek to an area of cliffs surrounded by spectacular views of the San José Gulf before going back.

Includes : guide throughout the activity, snack, box lunch, a Kayak every 2 people and transfers to/from starting/finishing point.

2 – Discover the Marble Caves on a kayak

One of the most isolated natural treasures of the world are the Marble Caves (Capillas de Mármol), a series of sculpted caves in the General Carrera Lake in the heart of the Chilean Patagonia.

The Cathedral, the Chapel and the Cave are the three formations that make up this natural spectacle that will certainly leave every traveller breathless with its uniqueness and will prove to be the perfect spot for those looking for the perfect “instagrammable” moment.

Tourists usually go on motorboats to get closer to the Marble Caves, but the best way to visit them and in deep, especially if you are fond of some active tours, is with a kayak as this will allows going inside the caves  to admire the black and white columns reflected on the blue waters.

Recommended Months October to March

Duration 3 hours approx., requirement low / medium.

Going kayaking is simply a unique experience, natural and in harmony with the environment. It is also recommended for all ages since it lasts for about 20 minutes to reach the Chapels and without demanding too much physical effort.

It is recommended to do this activity early in the morning or at the end of the afternoon, for the simple reason of making better use of the light reflected on the marble formations and lake.

Includes : Guide throughout the excursion, a Kayak every 2 people and transfers to/from starting/finishing point.

3 – Kayaking at the End of the World

Did you ever dream about kayaking in the  End of the World ? Then this is your chance.

The Beagle Channel is a strait in Tierra del Fuego Archipelago on the extreme southern tip of South America between Chile and Argentina.

The Beagle Channel, the Straits of Magellan located to its north, and the open-ocean Drake Passage to the south are the three navigable passages around South America between the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. It is about 240 kilometres (130 nmi; 150 mi) long and is about 5 kilometres (3 nmi; 3 mi) wide at its narrowest point. The biggest settlement on the channel is Ushuaia in Argentina followed by Puerto Williams in Chile and they are two of the southernmost settlements of the world.

Duration 6 hours approx.

Requirement medium / high (3hs total paddling).

This activity in the Beagle Channel, expands the area of ​​discovery to the sea that humankind has been sailing for 7,000 years. There’s no need to be an athlete, anyone who wants to have fun, wants to try a new way of touring “the End of the World”, and has the necessary team spirit for this type of moderate physical activity, can enjoy watching seabirds and take home the memory of an approach to a way of life that has been lost in history: that of the nomads of the sea.

The Yámana, natives of this landscape, sailed with their fragile tree bark canoes. The women were the ones who rowed and dived to collect molluscs, the children took care of the fire in the canoes and the man, in front and with his harpoon, looked for the sea lion.

In double expedition kayaks, we will rediscover majestic beaches and corners. On the tour through the waters of the Beagle Channel, which unites two friendly nations, we will live the experience of rowing in a legendary site, with the best specialized guides who will accompany you with the appropriate equipment and the necessary safety conditions.

Includes : Guide throughout the excursion, Box Lunch, a Kayak every 2 people and transfers to/from starting/finishing point.

4 – Kayaking among woods and myths

Visiting Chiloé  is like entering a magical world blessed in nature and culture. From the moment you first set foot on this extraordinary island, its singular identity will take you by surprise.

Very well-known for its quaint palafitos – colorful houses built on stilts above the water, Chiloe is a land of myths and legends,  unique folklore and culinary traditions.

Duration 2 hours approx.

When the English naturalist Charles Darwin visited the town of Cucao in 1835, he did so in a small boat (bongo), crossing Lake Cucao in its entire length. Nowadays kayaking has become one of the most pleasant outdoor activities. The objective of this experience is to be able to reach the mouth of this lake, the place where Darwin possibly made the landing and to be able to know how the inhabitants of this sector moved around before having accessible roads and bridges. On the way we will have panoramic views of hills, native forest and huge nalcas, this will be an off-the-beaten-path adventure that you will not forget.

5 – Family kayaking in the Argentinean Lakes Region

The city of Bariloche, located on the shores of The  Nahuel Huapi Lak e and surrounded by mountains and forests, is always showing a changing landscape that adapts to each season along the year.

In the surroundings, the Andes mountain range exhibits its greatness while at the same time, ancient and silent forests extend along the crystal clear lakes. Skiing, trekking, sailing or just relaxing, are all possible in Bariloche.

Recommended Months September to April

Duration half a day or full day, requirement low (2hs total paddling).

This particular activity is perfect for families with children since where it takes place, the Gutierrez Lake, waters are calm. Here we will be paddling approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour until we reach a small beach. There we will be able to recover energies with a hot drink and a handmade local sweets such as the “alfajor”, while we enjoy the views to the forests. After this break, we will rowing back to the starting point.

6 – Kayaking among Icebergs

The Glaciers National Park covers a surface of about 600,000 hectares / 1,482,632 acres with 47 glaciers. The ice cap is the largest outside of  Antarctica and Greenland  and and in 1981 it was declared World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Kayaking on the Argentino will allow you to admire the imposing Perito Moreno glacier from a different perspective.

The tour begins with a thorough explanation of the expert tour guides on how to paddle through these amazing glacial waters; it’s no required a previous kayaking experience. Once ready we will go out in kayaks, paddling towards the front of the glacier watching some icebergs go by. We will approach this wall of ice until about 600m of distance, stopping on the way unique pictures of this unforgeable moment while learning more about this fascinating place.

7 – Kayak for beginners and family in the Chilean Lakes District

With a great choice of open-air adventures, distinctive Chilean-German traditions, and a truly stunning natural setting, it is no wonder many visitors to Chile make a bee-line for the Lakes District.

About 15 km from Puerto Varas is Laguna La Poza. We will navigate about 5 km through a 25-meter-wide channel that gently turns into a narrow tunnel where we will pass under vegetation made up of weeping willows and other native species. This tunnel is accessible only by canoes or kayaks and will take us to the Escondida Lagoon.

Requirement Low

This location is ideal for bird watching, such as the Kingfisher, Chucao and various herons, very quiet and recommended to enjoy with the family or as a first experience. We will return through the same channel and then sail to the Llanquihue Lake before finishing the trip.

I would recommend for you to meet our special  Kayak Program in Puerto Varas.

8 – Kayaking in Torres del Paine National Park

Torres del Paine National Park  is the main Chilean attraction and is surrounded by  mountains, glaciers, lakes, and rivers in the southern Patagonia. The Cordillera del Paine is the centerpiece of the park and lies in a transition area between the Magellan subpolar forests and the Patagonian Steppes.

Requirement Medium / High

For this tour it’s advisable to be staying in one of the hotels within the National Park so as to avoid the time of the land transfer to / from the closest town, Puerto Natales.

Before going kayaking and upon arrival there will be a safety talk that lasts approximately 20 min. Once the kayaks are in the water, we will move along the current of the Pingo River to arrive at the Grey Lake peninsula. From there we will contemplate the imposing icebergs from the Grey Glacier. We will enjoy this special moment to later descend the Grey River for approximately 3 hours.

Includes : Guide throughout the excursion, a Kayak every 2 people, snacks and transfers to/from starting/finishing point.

I invite you to check out our  Torres del Paine Glamping Program.

In case that you need more info or alternative activities, do not hesitate to contact us!

We look forward to receiving you in South America!!

Leandro Zamprogno  Travel Specialist, Trips SouthAmerica. [email protected]

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Discovering The Secrets Of Argentina’s Tigre Delta By Kayak

Paddling through any delta is a unique journey. By definition, they are always changing and so there is always something new to see. The islands within a delta constantly fluctuate in shape and size. Rivers can appear and diminish without anyone knowing, and the entire delta can expand or contract over time and even disappear. Located one hour north of Buenos Aires, the cosmopolitan Capitol city of Argentina sits a rather different habitat that could become the next kayaking hotspot in South America - Tigre and its delta.

The town of Tigre has no tigers, though settlers thought the jaguars they saw resembled those large feline predators when they first arrived in this region in the late 1700s. Today what makes this area wild, exotic, and worthy of its name are its endless rivers that form hundreds of islands. The Delta itself is one of the only deltas still growing today and it covers around 5,400 square miles.

Kayaking in the Tigre Delta is a unique and essential addition to any Buenos Aires itinerary for all paddling enthusiasts. This off-the-beaten-path Argentinian destination offers a unique glimpse into a remarkable way of life and provides great bird watching and wildlife viewing. It is a family-friendly activity that is a one-hour journey from the big city, but a wonderful way to feel the peace and tranquility of life on the water.

Tigre is a tourism-driven town where many people embark on journeys into the Paraná Delta. The islands are separated by rivers, streams, and canals that are woven through them like roads and alleyways. Various tour boats leave from town, but you need to get in a smaller boat to explore deep into this region, and a kayak journey is the perfect vessel to make this happen.

What And Where Exactly Is The Tigre Delta

The source of this water that both creates and reshapes islands in the Paraná Delta (often referred to as Tigre Delta) is the great Paraná River. This river is a fabled and mighty body of water that travels through Paraguay, Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay. At more than 3,000 miles long, this South American river is second only to the Amazon River in its length.

Like a wild sub-tropical Venice, in Tigre, the canals and rivers are the streets. Outside the main town of Tigre, you won’t see traffic lights. On the hundreds of inhabited islands, there are no cars - only docks, ferries, taxi boats, and paddlers.

This is, perhaps, why this region is so perfectly suited for paddling lovers. Paddling is part of the lifeblood of this place. What is even more rewarding for the enthusiastic paddler is that the deeper you go into these rivers and canals, the further back in time you appear to go, and closer to raw uninhibited nature you find yourself.

Some ferries run for hours and hours deep into the delta where tourist boats. As you continue to travel on the river the riverside beach resorts vanish behind you and are replaced by all sorts of sustainable homes.

This off-the-grid lifestyle becomes more and more appealing as you paddle this stretch of the Paraná and its offshooting rivers and streams on a long tranquil kayaking session. This is where the true magic of the Tigre Delta lives, and this is where any kayak lover visiting the region must venture.

How To Paddle Through Tigre’s Delta

Unlike many waterfront towns, it is not advisable to rent a kayak from the main port of Tigre and paddle your way out into the unknown. There are a few reasons for this. For one, the Delta is vast, and if you start from the town you are unlikely to reach anywhere outside the grasp of a typical tour boat. This would make a kayak journey of this sort rather anti-climactic and fruitless. Further, the water near the town of Tigre is rather polluted, and there are far fewer flora and fauna species to view.

Still, if you like, you can rent kayaks from Tigre town. But this is only advisable if your time is extremely limited. Instead, the best way to explore the Paraná Delta from Tigre is to go with a guide, or on a guided tour. These tours will pick you up from Tigre town, and shuttle you many miles up the river until it feels much more remote, and the water looks much clearer.

I took an hour ferry boat to meet Martin Crovetto the co-owner of El Dorado Kayak , a kayak and canoe company based in Tigre. Once we met on a non-descript dock that the ferry captain somehow knew by name, we ventured into Crovetto’s boat for another twenty minutes, weaving in and out of different rivers and streams until we reached our launch point.

“Once you get away from the area close to the port, it's delightful to paddle around here,” explained Crovetto. And he was correct. Once you are miles away from the town of Tigre the water is clean and clear, and you hear nothing but the sound of birds, and the breeze through tall grass, bamboo, and hanging willow trees that line the coasts of Tigre’s many small islands. These peaceful sounds contribute to the essence of what makes kayaking here special.

Qualities That Make Paddling Through Tigre Delta Unique

An idyllic place for bird watching.

For those bird-loving kayakers visiting the Buenos Aires area, then a trip to The Delta is a must. There are well over a hundred bird species you can spot here, “from the tiny hummingbirds to the wide and elegant egrets and herons,” said Crovetto. He is a knowledgeable birdwatcher himself, and frequently pointed out rare, and not-so-rare species from the kayak.

Tigre Is Family Friendly

The town of Tigre is very family-friendly, with many restaurants, an amusement park, and family-oriented day activities. While some of the long paddles might be challenging for young kids, many of the paddling journeys are very family-friendly thanks to the calm waters and peaceful atmosphere of The Delta. El Dorado Kayak, for example, has large canoes that can fit up to seven people, which means kids can take breaks and paddle at their leisure while adults pick up the slack.

Interesting Wildlife Close To The Big City

When you are many miles into the Paraná Delta, it’s crazy to fathom that the bustling city of Buenos Aires is so close. While just one hour by train from the city, in this vast series of waterways you can spot all sorts of thriving wildlife species including turtles, capibaras, and even a few rare snake and frog sightings. While jaguars may have helped give Tigre its name, they are no longer present in the region.

Tigre Is Filled With History Along Its Paddling Routes

The Delta has a storied history. This history is well preserved in museums, and even in some of its crumbling ruins and rusted ships along the shores. There are several note-worthy museums in Tigre, including the stunning remodeled classic Casino that is now the Museo de Arte de Tigre, and the Sarmiento House, a preserved and replicated structure paying homage to the 7th president of Argentina who lived there until his death.

More than just museums, there is history in the soil, and in the trees. The Delta tells a story of all its inhabitants. The first to arrive in the Delta were the native Guaraní and Chaná people, and then this all changed after the Spanish conquest.

There was a period where The Delta was a major fruit producer, and then a tree plantation. You can see evidence of this in many willow trees along the shores. Over time, the Tigre Delta area has been a refuge for everyone from artists looking for inspiration to smugglers looking for somewhere to hide, and you can feel this eclectic spirit as you paddle among many different houses that showcase vastly different ways of life.

The Journey To And From Tigre Is Half The Fun

While the kayaking is certainly the highlight of a trip to Tigre, getting there is also a blast. From Buenos Aires, you can take the Tren Del Costa, which stops at many lovely towns. Many of these stops feature lovely restaurants that are right on the platform. Other stops feature antique markets, and others are a short walk to beaches.

The boat ride through this delta to the kayak launch point is also a fun journey. As you bob and weave around paddlers, taxi boats, and large tourist vessels, you get a sense of what it’s like to commute along this waterway daily.

How Long To Spend Paddling In Tigre

If you are pressed for time you can explore the town of Tigre and then do a half-day paddling tour before returning to Buenos Aires in time to have an evening dinner. This is the beauty of Tigre’s proximity to Buenos Aires and easy access to convenient train transportation. While a half-day is enough time to get a taste of this unique paddling paradise, you might want to consider an overnight stay.

Spending at least one night in Tigre allows you to get the full experience of this area. After all, the daytime in Tigre is only half the story. The night provides solitude, mystery, and wild sounds that will stick with you for some time, all while staying on an island with no roads. It is a perfect place to unplug and reset. Spending a night in Tigre also allows you to take a longer paddling journey, and even use a kayak at dawn when the river is often quiet but wildlife is most active.

When Is The Best Time To Kayak In Tigre, Argentina?

The most popular time to visit Tigre and to paddle its delta is the late spring and summer between mid-October and March. This is when swimming is most popular and refreshing. It is a great way to beat the summer heat in the city, and the town of Tigre is also in full swing.

Early Spring is when I paddled in Tigre, which was beautiful and filled with purple Wysteria blossoms and many aquatic flowers shooting out along the edges of the river. If you find a pleasant and sunny day, kayaking Tigre in the spring can be magical. There are far fewer people in this season, making the trip even quieter and more authentic than normal.

The Autumn provides some stunning fall foliage to gaze at while you paddle , and the crowds have mostly diminished at this time of year. You can even paddle in the winter here, as it does not get brutally cold, and on a warmer winter day, kayaking in Tigre is a nice activity.

Kayaking Tigre Is ‘A Way To Enjoy The Beauty Of Life By The Water’

A kayaking journey deep into the Paraná Delta is an essential excursion for any serious paddler planning to visit Buenos Aires. A paddling trip can take just half a day, but you will feel completely immersed in nature. You will also get a glimpse into a way of life unlike any other you have likely seen before. The best way to get a genuine sense of life in the Tigre Delta is to paddle with a guide or join a kayaking tour that starts several miles away from the town of Tigre. This ensures authenticity and clean water conditions.

My guide, Corvetto, moved permanently many years ago to live permanently in the Delta. He planted roots as many locals do - by slowly building a sustainable home on one of the Delta’s many islands. He came to the Delta as a child, as Tigre is a common holiday escape for Argentinian locals living throughout the Buenos Aires region.

But as he grew older he continued to fall in love with this incredible Argentinian paddling destination, and eventually made it a place to raise his family. For him, it provides “a peaceful escape from the busy city life, a job in tourism, and a way to enjoy the beauty of life by the water.” Witnessing life by this water is an experience hat should not be missed.

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Travel Tales from Argentina and South America

Top 3 Destinations in Argentina for Kayaking

A surface area of near 2.8 million square kilometers allows Argentina to be a more than an appealing destination for ANY kind of traveler, as it’s almost impossible for someone not to find a place to do something that they love or experience a new adventure. It goes without saying that the country’s great variety of wildlife, landscapes and weather make it the perfect spot for outdoor activities and sports. Among them there is one that stands out for its originality and countless possibilities: kayaking. It doesn’t matter if you want to feel a rush of adrenaline by getting into extreme and dangerous river courses or just go for a peaceful trip through calm waters; there are plenty of destinations in Argentina where it’s worth getting wet! Updated to April 2024

1. Bariloche

In the southern province of Río Negro you can find the most visited place of the Patagonia and the second of the whole country: the city of Bariloche . Its secret is, obviously, its perfect location: right at the foot of the Andes, next to a beautiful lake and INSIDE the national park of Nahuel Huapi. Imagine kayaking through Brazo Tristeza and enjoying the waterfalls, cliffs and imposing hills like López, Cerro or Tronador, with its three summits and amazing glaciers. Meanwhile, for adventure seekers who can’t settle for just a 12 hour excursion, there are also expeditions that last two or three days along the intense blue waters of Nahuel Huapi Lake or the emerald ones of Mascardi, at the south of the park. The unique beauty of this corner of the world is even more noticeable by boat and it’s definitely within everyone’s reach!

2. “Los Glaciares” National Park

Breathtaking and unbelievable natural beauties of the world hide at the very south of the country, in El Calafate, considered one of the top destinations of Argentina. I’m talking about the glaciers, the more than 200 that can be found in the 7,000 square kilometers that occupies The Glaciers National Park . What if instead of (or after) doing the typical hike on and around these enormous ice caps you could jump on a canoe and discover other frozen secrets? It goes without saying that if you set foot on this natural park you HAVE TO see Perito Moreno, but if you also dare to go kayaking on the magnificent water mirror that is Lake Argentino, you will navigate through beautiful landscapes, unseen flora and fauna, gigantic floating chunks of ice, cliffs, mountains… Furthermore: you’ll be fortunate enough to see other less known glaciers like Heim, Onelli, Agassiz and, of course, the great Upsala.

If you feel inspired, have a look at our recommended travel itinerary .

Have you dismissed the idea of kayaking because you don’t have the budget or the time to go far away from Buenos Aires during your stay in Argentina? No worries! There’s also an option for you. Only thirty kilometers north from the capital -40 minutes by train- is the town of Tigre, famous for its colonial mansions, its delta, and its peaceful atmosphere that make it pretty popular between porteños or tourists who want to relax for a couple of days.

The delta is a result of the Paraná river mixing with the land and harbors a unique scenery for a place that is so close to the concrete jungle of Buenos Aires. That’s why it’s the perfect landscape to get lost for hours, especially if you are inside a kayak. With the vast number of channels and rivers, the different intensity of the currents that can be found make it the best spot both for beginners and experienced navigators who want to enjoy a trip surrounded by islands, trees, flowers, deer, more than 200 species of birds and (beware!) plenty of mosquitos…

Potrerillos Dam in Mendoza is one of the most relaxing experiences you can have. Only forty-five minutes away from Mendoza capital by car, you will reach the heart of Potrerillos Observing the calm waters dance beneath the kayaks makes this visit a favorite for those seeking to combine the beauty of the Andes mountain range with the tranquility of the iconic Mendocino dam.

At an altitude of just over 1000 meters above sea level, at the foot of the pre-Andean region, and with the Cordón del Plata as a backdrop, Potrerillos has this body of water with a length of 14 kilometers and an almost 3-kilometer maximum width, reaching a depth of 70 meters (this varies depending on the water flow). It was built for the regulation of water in the northern area of Mendoza.

Another great destination for kayaking in Mendoza is the Atuel Canyon. Located 34 km from San Rafael, the so-called “Atuel Rapids” invite you to experience the river through adventure. There is a perfect combination of imposing landscapes, nautical activities, and adventure. The rapids of the Atuel River are one of the main destinations for rafting, kayaking, and cool river activities.

Easy Hikes in Patagonia with a View

Easy hikes can be found all over Patagonia. There are so many destinations to visit that can be difficult to […]

How are the Polo Matches in Argentina?

So you’ve heard about Argentina’s craze for soccer (or football, as it’s called here) but did you know that Argentines […]

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Tired of the top-notch classical resort, we got it there and found where “luxury” Patagonia tours are today.   Patagonia […]

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The 12 best places to visit in Argentina

Nov 18, 2023 • 7 min read

Plan your trip to Argentina with this guide to the very best places to visit © Alex Eggermont / Getty Images

Argentina is one of the most popular destinations in South America , and it isn't hard to see why.

Home to lively cities and tranquil wildernesses, majestic waterfalls and soaring mountains, not to mention wildlife-filled wetlands, glorious architecture, rich culture and renowned steakhouses, it's the whole South American package.

But Argentina is a big country, measuring 3800 km (2360 miles) from end to end, so there's some serious ground to cover.

For those unsure where to start, we can help you narrow it down with this list of our favorite 12 places that shouldn’t be missed, from  national parks carved by glaciers to vineyards in the shadow of the Andes.

1. Buenos Aires

Best for eating out

Sultry tango clubs and cacophonous football matches, beautiful barrios (neighborhoods) and historic cemeteries, world-class museums and raucous nightlife – Buenos Aires has everything you need for an immersive, big city experience.

Above all, the Argentine capital is a fantastic place to eat out . Its parrillas (steakhouses) – such as Don Julio , named the best restaurant in Latin America by the World's 50 Best Restaurants  – serve what could be the finest beef on the planet.

You'll also find a multitude of international joints, serving everything from Armenian to Peruvian cuisine, plus an ice cream parlor on virtually every block.

Planning tip: Buenos Aires is a big city, so it pays to base yourself close to the areas you want to explore. The neighborhoods of Recoleta , Retiro, Palermo and San Telmo offer a great mix of sights, places to eat, and local character.

2. The Pampas

Best for experiencing cowboy life

The flat, fertile grasslands that cover much of central Argentina are known as the Pampas , a place dominated by the cattle industry and synonymous with gaucho (cowboy) culture.

For an introduction to rural life, head to the town of San Antonio de Areco , whose museum and annual Dia de la Tradición festival showcase all things gaucho .

Planning tip: To get the best from a trip to the Pampas, stay a few nights at one of the many estancias (ranches) scattered across the region, which offer horseback riding, polo lessons and traditional asados (barbecues).

Want some help? Let Elsewhere plan your next trip.

3. Buenos Aires province

Best for beaches

Argentina isn’t well known for its beaches , but the Atlantic coast south of Buenos Aires is dotted with appealing seaside resorts.

Although big, brash Mar del Plata draws the largest crowds, there are several smaller, quieter and more appealing stretches of sand. They include the forest-fringed beaches of Cariló, Mar de las Pampas and Mar Azul, great spots for sunbathers and novice surfers alike.

Planning tip:  Although you can explore the beaches of Buenos Aires province by bus, hiring a car makes things a lot easier.

4. Iguazú Falls

Best for epic waterfalls

Shared between Argentina and Brazil , stretching for 3km (1.85 miles) and flanked by subtropical rainforest, this magnificent string of waterfalls is one of the greatest natural wonders on Earth.

A network of trails, walkways and bridges run through the surrounding national park, allowing visitors a close-up look at the 250-plus cascades and cataracts.

The centerpiece is the Garganta del Diablo (“Devil’s Throat”), a seething mass of white water that produces a deafening roar and sends up great clouds of spray.

5. Parque Nacional Iberá

Best for birdwatching

The hot, humid wetlands of this recently created national park in northeastern Argentina are home to more than 360 species of birds, including kingfishers, jabiru storks and roseate spoonbills.

Dubbed the “Argentine Pantanal,” the reserve is undergoing a major rewilding process that is introducing rare or endangered creatures, such as red-shouldered macaws.

Its reed-lined channels and lagoons are best explored by boat, from which visitors can also expect to spot an abundance of mammals and reptiles, from caimans to capybaras, the world’s biggest rodent.

Planning tip: The best way to explore Parque Nacional Iberá is on the water. Guided boat and kayak trips are easy to arrange in the village of Colonia Carlos Pellegrini, the main gateway to the park.

Best for historic architecture

In the far northwest of Argentina, near the Chilean and Bolivian borders, this charming city is known as “Salta la Linda” (“Salta the Beautiful”).

On the edge of the Lerma valley, overlooked by mountains, Salta is filled with historic mansions, churches, municipal buildings and plazas, some of which date back to the city’s founding in 1582.

It also has a varied cultural scene encompassing excellent museums and galleries – such as the Museo de Arqueología de Alta Montaña , which explores Inca culture and the practice of human sacrifice – and atmospheric folk-music clubs called peñas .

7. Mendoza province

Best for wine tasting

Argentina is the world’s fifth biggest wine producer and the industry’s heartland is Mendoza province.

In the midwest of the country, close to the Andes, the region is carpeted with vineyards and wineries, many of which offered guided tours, tastings, accommodations, and even the chance to help out with the harvest.

And while Mendoza is rightly famous for its Malbec, plenty of other delicious wines – reds, whites and rosés – are also produced in the province.

Planning tip: Try to time your visit to coincide with the grape harvest from February to April. Expect plenty of demand for accommodations during the popular Fiesta Nacional de la Vendimia wine festival in March, Mendoza's biggest celebration.

8. The Argentine Lake District

Best for stunning landscapes

Glimmering bodies of water, emerald-green forests, and towering mountains and volcanoes dusted with snow – it’s not hard to understand why Argentina's Lake District is a traveler hot spot.

The gateway to this verdant region, the northwestern part of Patagonia, is the attractive lakeside city of Bariloche . Here you can pick from a wealth of outdoor activities – from hiking and mountain biking to fishing, kayaking and skiing – inside the surrounding Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi .

Planning tip: In winter (corresponding to the northern hemisphere summer), Bariloche becomes Argentina's premier ski hub . It's a busy time at the resorts around the city, but the powder is some of the world's best.

9. Cueva de los Manos Pintados

Best for ancient art

In a remote canyon surrounded by the Patagonian steppe, the Cave of the Painted Hands has an enigmatic collection of rock art created between 13,000 and 9500 years ago.

This Unesco World Heritage Site takes its name from the 800-plus stenciled outlines of human hands covering the walls.

Red, white, black or ochre in color, their purpose remains a tantalizing mystery. There are also images of pumas, guanacos (a wild relative of the llama) and rheas, as well as hunting scenes. Guided tours are offered from the towns of Perito Moreno and Posadas.

10. Península Valdés

Best for whale watching

The frigid waters off Península Valdés , a chunk of northeastern Patagonia jutting out into the Atlantic, teem with life.

A breeding ground for endangered southern right whales, who arrive in their hundreds between mid-June and mid-December, they are also home to elephant seals, sea lions and orcas, as well as more than 180 species of birds.

Accessed from the town of Puerto Madryn, this Unesco World Heritage Site offers a variety of boat, kayaking and diving trips, though marine life can often be spotted from the shore.

Further down the coast, 250km (155 miles) south of Puerto Madryn, Punta Tombo has South America’s largest colony of Magellanic penguins.

11. Ushuaia

Best for uplifting isolation

A famous sign in Ushuaia informs you that this is the “Fin del Mundo” – the physical end of the world. The far-flung capital of Argentine Tierra del Fuego sits on the shore of the Beagle Channel, more than 3000km (1865 miles) south of Buenos Aires.

It is the gateway to rugged Parque Nacional Tierra del Fuego , the world’s most southerly railway line, and several winter sports centers, as well as the embarkation point for cruises to Antarctica, just 1000km (620 miles) to the south.

12. Parque Nacional Los Glaciares

Best for awesome glaciers

Spanning more than 5956 sq km (2300 sq miles) of iceberg-filled lakes, jagged Andean peaks and – most notably – gigantic glaciers, this park in southern Patagonia is one of Argentina’s signature tourist attractions.

The southern section – famous for the Perito Moreno Glacier – is accessed from the touristy town of El Calafate , while the northern part, a haven for hikers and climbers, is best visited from the rustic village of El Chaltén .

Planning tips: All manner of treks are possible from El Chaltén and El Calafate, from day hikes to multi-day adventures, and many routes can be attempted without a guide.

This article was first published Oct 22, 2021 and updated Nov 18, 2023.

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Find cheap flights from San Francisco to Argentina from $383

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• Morning departure is around 13% more expensive than an evening flight, on average*.

Top 5 airlines serving from San Francisco to Argentina

There was a loud squeaky sound the whole time we were flying.

I didn’t not like that I could not select my seat and ended up with the worse seat.

The landing was bad and the hostess came two times and i was sleeping but when she served the person that nexts to me I woke up and she didn’t even asked me if I need any drink or snacks two times!!!!

Plane was late because of a mechanical malfunction and the food listed as available was not. Flight attendants seem over worked and under paid. They just done seem happy. And that can be seen in their faces.

Waited 3 hours on a plane to de-ice due to manpower issues. Waited another hour and a half once we landed because of a gate issue. Missed my connections. Created. A total of 13 hours of delay.

Great, on time departure, friendly and accommodating crew, great leg room, Smith flight

Plane was turned around due to fog half way into the flight, Delta did not properly direct passengers to stay on same flight and instead failed to properly rebook on Alaska

Honestly, I didn’t expect that I will experience this long time wait during the check in. There was only one person who was taking care of the passengers for the economy class and it took us to wait about one hour to do our check i. As a result we barely get to the airplane as the gate was at the end of the airport. That is totally not professional where one crue is working at the registration desk with economy and 3-4 crues are helping for the business class.

Like most domestic flights in the US, you are basically on your own with this airline when it comes to food, so be sure to purchase meals and drinks ahead of time or expect to arrive starving and dehydrated (like I was).

You need to be a hacker to get the (Free) WiFi

Copa performed as expected for the amount of money I was willing to spend for the flight; it wasn’t exceptional but it was not bad in any way either. The crew was good; friendly and straightforward. The food was airplane food, so no expectations there and the entertainment was lacking but that was my fault for owning an IPhone with a charging port that’s not compatible with the rest of the world. I’d fly Copa again.

Left my bags in origin city on a business class ticket , spent about 2-3 days in the same clothes plus the flight .

the planes are not modern there are no phone chargers

As usual, the flight with normal legroom was not very comfortable, but the second flight was much better because we had paid for extra legroom. It was very nice to check our bags without an extra fee.

LOCKED MY BAG WITHOUT CONSENT. Had to have my zippers cut upon arrival in Costa Rica.

Some entertainment and food/snack service would have been nice

All the pessengers should be wait in a line útil the creo and piloto are arrived.

Planes seat could be bigger very uncomfortable for tall humans.

1 hour waiting for suitcases to come out traveling in business class and food in business class is a sandwich? Avoid Aeromexico .

No space reserved for anyone who didn’t have underseat in front of them. Made it inconvenient to get the backs secured. No inflight entertainment in the 190. Bring your own! Food was excellent and we were surprised to get a full breakfast.

Hated every minute of it. This flight should have only taken 1.5hrs but was delayed over 10hours. Now I am being told I cannot be compensated or refunded my ticket price or extra leg room, which I purchased but did not receive, because the airline is throwing the blame on the 3rd party I purchased tickets through and 3rd party putting the blame on airline. No one wants to help. They received their money and that's all they care about. Im going on 3 days of still trying to get to my final destination, had to cancel car rental, car insurance and hotel. Currently staying in airport until hotels open up. Thank you Lufthansa, Kayak, Underpricer and United for making this trip the worst ever.

Crew was great and did their best to make us comfortable and captain came out at the beginning to announce why the flight was delayed, weather situation up ahead, and kept us updated throughout the flight.

United WiFi is consistently unusable (it can take 10 mins to load a single web page). If you need Wifi to do work, be prepared to lose half a day of productivity.

Awful. I got stuck next to a person carrying a dog and behind someone with a dog. People need to board these dogs downstairs. The cabin is crowded enough with your pets

Packed in like sardines, very uncomfortable. Sitting the aisle my shoulder was rammed into numerous times by rushing flight attendants. Also flight was very cold.

Beverage and food services are excellent. We enjoy paying the extra for economy plus for the 3 inches more leg room to be exact.

Flight was delayed by 3 hours. The pilot made up 1 hour during the flight, but that made the wait at the airport 5 hours once you factor getting there 2 hours early.

Airline did not explain reasons why flight was delayed two hours. Explanations were badly needed and rarely provided. Problem seemed to clearly be the airline’s fault and not the fault of the weather or airport.

Very uncomfortable seats and seat backs, and I am only 5’9”. Delayed due to crew issues, spent a long time with no ventilation. Teeny overhead bins. Wifi worked well. Arrived safely.

I was delighted that we were able to get on the 4:40 pm flight rather than our original booking at 6:55 pm!! Other than that, the flight was comfortable and landed early😊

Not sure why JAL partnered with American Airlines because their service is no where near similar. Flight attendants were not friendly and didn’t smile. Food was horrible…

The experience was great and much better than the flight going out. of course I was in first class but the service was excellent

Comfort of seats, ease of boarding. Food selection could be better

Food options were limited which is absolutely embarrassing for a Flight of this size The staff did not come around as much and I am not accustomed to such poor service from American Airlines Drinks I believe were limited to soda and water

Crew were attentive and friendly. Flight was smooth and early! I enjoyed the less crowded plane. Thank you!

We are gluten free, there were not any available complimentary gluten free options.

No meal on a cross country flight? SFO-MiA is pretty much the definition of a coast to coast flight. No meal provided. Sky high wi-fi rates too. Stop nickel and diming your customers.

The staff was unprofessional and didn’t communicate very well. The boarding process was very disheveled, potentially due to a power outage the previous day but there was no contingency plan to properly get passengers boarded the following day. Once boarded the aircraft stayed on the tarmac for over 45 minutes due to high winds. The communication was sporadic but an announcement was finally made an additional 30 minutes later that the flight was cancelled but we couldn’t get off the plane. Prior to deplaning one of the gate agents came on the plane and made an announcement for everyone to pickup their checked bags and take a card to rebook a new reservation because they didn’t have adequate staff. Flights were missed, passengers went to different airports and there was little to no assistance from AA.

You cancelled my flight by email then made it very difficult to get in contact with you. Then put me in a flight with a long layover in Mexico returning to the wrong airport in uk. Mind blowing my stressful. I missed see my grand dad because of you.

Apart from the delay due to unforeseen circumstances. The leg from sjc to dfw was fine. It was the leg from dfw to orf that we encountered issues mainly due to the flight attendant crew not being friendly. We had two small children and we needed some assistance to warm up milk so the baby would sleep. The crew just didn’t get it and made things very difficult. One made a remark that the baby’s dirty diaper smell was a “gift” to the plane in a rude way. Normally I’d brush that off as a funny comment if the rest of the trip the attendants were helpful or understanding of the difficulty we faced. But that wasn’t the case. We were met with rudeness on the second leg. Whereas on the first leg the crew were so nice and helpful.

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