Argentina Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
💵 Money and Costs
What is the “Blue Dollar”? It is the unofficial, parallel exchange rate that offers significantly more pesos per dollar than the government’s official rate.
Should I use ATMs? Generally, no. They often have high fees and low withdrawal limits.
Is Western Union a good option? Yes, many travelers send money to themselves via Western Union to get a rate close to the Blue Dollar.
Do I need crisp USD bills? Yes. Money changers (cuevas) often refuse torn, marked, or old (small-head) $100 bills.
Are credit cards accepted? Yes, widely in cities. Most foreign cards now receive a “MEP” rate, which is much better than the official rate but slightly lower than the Blue Dollar.
Should I bring cash? Yes, cash is king for better discounts and tipping.
Is Argentina expensive? Since 2024, inflation has caused prices to rise. It is no longer “dirt cheap” but remains affordable compared to the US or Europe.
Do I tip at restaurants? Yes, usually 10% is standard (la propina).
Can I pay in USD? Occasionally at hotels or for big tours, but usually, you need pesos for daily life.
What is a “Cueva”? An unofficial (but common) exchange house where you swap USD for pesos.
🗺️ Itinerary and Logistics
How many days for Buenos Aires? At least 3–5 days to see the main neighborhoods.
Is Iguazu Falls worth it? Absolutely. It is often cited as a highlight of South America.
How many days for Iguazu? Two days: one for the Argentine side and a half-day for the Brazilian side.
Best time to visit Patagonia? November to March (Southern Hemisphere summer).
Is Mendoza worth it if I don’t drink wine? Yes, for the Andes scenery and outdoor activities like rafting.
How do I get around the country? Flying is best due to massive distances. Aerolíneas Argentinas, FlyBondi, and JetSmart are the main carriers.
Are the buses good? Yes, “Coche Cama” (sleeper buses) are very comfortable for long hauls.
What is the Lake District? The area around Bariloche, famous for chocolate, hiking, and alpine views.
Should I visit Salta and Jujuy? Yes, if you like desert landscapes, colorful mountains, and indigenous culture.
Can I visit Uruguay from BA? Yes, the Buquebus or Colonia Express ferry takes you to Colonia in about an hour.
🏙️ Buenos Aires Specifics
Where should I stay in BA? Palermo (trendy, food) or Recoleta (classic, upscale) are top choices.
Is the Subte (metro) easy to use? Yes, but you need a SUBE card.
What is a SUBE card? A rechargeable smart card used for all public transport.
Where can I find a SUBE card? Kiosks or metro stations, though they are sometimes in short supply.
Is San Telmo safe? Generally yes during the day, especially for the Sunday market, but be cautious at night.
What is “La Boca” like? The Caminito area is colorful and touristy; stay within the designated police-patrolled zones.
Are there many English speakers? In tourist areas, yes. In local shops, basic Spanish is helpful.
Is Uber legal? It’s in a legal gray area but widely used. Cabify is often considered more reliable.
What is the best steakhouse (Parrilla)? Don Julio is world-famous (book months ahead), but La Cabrera and El Ferroviario are excellent alternatives.
When do people eat dinner? Late! Restaurants don’t get busy until 9:00 PM or 10:00 PM.
🏔️ Patagonia and the South
El Calafate or El Chaltén? Both. Calafate is for the Perito Moreno glacier; Chaltén is for world-class hiking.
Can I drink tap water in Patagonia? Yes, it is some of the cleanest in the world.
Do I need a guide for Perito Moreno? No, you can walk the boardwalks alone, but you need a guide for “Minitrekking” on the ice.
What is the “W Trek”? That’s in Torres del Paine, Chile, which is accessible via a bus from El Calafate.
Is Ushuaia worth the flight? Yes, if you want to see the “End of the World” and Beagle Channel penguins.
What should I pack for Patagonia? Layers. The wind is fierce and weather changes in minutes.
Can I see penguins in Argentina? Yes, in Punta Tombo or Ushuaia.
Is Bariloche good in winter? Yes, it’s the premier skiing destination.
What is the “Seven Lakes” drive? A stunning scenic route between Villa La Angostura and San Martín de los Andes.
Are there ATMs in El Chaltén? Yes, but they often run out of cash. Bring pesos from Calafate.
🍽️ Food and Drink
What is a “Merienda”? Afternoon tea/coffee (around 5:00 PM) to bridge the gap until the late dinner.
What is “Dulce de Leche”? A sweet caramel-like spread used on everything.
Is the tap water safe in BA? Yes, though some prefer bottled water for the taste.
What is “Mate”? An herbal tea shared socially; it’s a vital part of Argentine culture.
Best Malbec region? Luján de Cuyo and Uco Valley in Mendoza.
What is a “Choripán”? A delicious sausage sandwich, the ultimate Argentine street food.
Are there vegetarian options? Yes, especially in BA, though “steak culture” is dominant. Look for pasta and empanadas.
What are “Facturas”? Argentine pastries, often filled with dulce de leche or quince paste.
What is “Fernet and Coke”? The unofficial national cocktail, very bitter and an acquired taste.
How do I order steak? Jugoso (medium-rare), A punto (medium), Cocido (well-done).
🛡️ Safety and Health
Is Argentina safe? It’s one of the safest in Latin America, but petty theft (phone snatching) is common in cities.
Should I use my phone on the street? Avoid it. Step into a shop or café if you need to check Google Maps.
What is the “Mustard Trick”? A scam where someone spills something on you and “helps” clean it while an accomplice robs you.
Are taxis safe? Generally, yes. Use “Radio Taxi” or apps like Cabify to be sure.
Do I need vaccinations? Usually just standard ones, but check for Dengue alerts in the north.
Is health care good? Private clinics in BA are excellent.
Do I need travel insurance? Highly recommended for any international trip.
Is it safe for solo female travelers? Yes, many women travel alone here; just exercise standard urban caution.
Can I walk at night? In neighborhoods like Palermo and Recoleta, yes, but stay on well-lit streets.
What is the emergency number? 911 for all emergencies.
🎭 Culture and Etiquette
How do people greet each other? A single kiss on the right cheek, even between men in social settings.
Is Spanish necessary? You can get by with English in tourism, but “survival Spanish” is deeply appreciated.
What is “Castellano”? The local name for Spanish; it has a distinct “sh” sound for ‘y’ and ‘ll’.
Are Argentines friendly? Very! They are social, talkative, and passionate.
What is the deal with Football? It’s a religion. Try to see a match if you can, but be careful at high-tension games.
Should I tip tour guides? Yes, it is customary.
What is a Milonga? A local hall or club where people go to dance Tango.
Is Tango only for tourists? No, but the “dinner shows” are. Visit a Milonga to see the real thing.
How should I dress? Argentines are generally stylish. “Smart casual” works best in the city.
Do shops close for Siesta? In BA, no. In smaller provinces like Salta or Mendoza, yes (usually 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM).
📱 Technology and Gear
What plug type is used? Type I (same as Australia) and sometimes Type C (European).
Can I buy a local SIM card? Yes, go to a “Personal” or “Claro” store with your passport.
Does eSim work? Yes, Airalo and Holafly are popular options.
Is the internet fast? In cities, yes. In deep Patagonia, it can be spotty.
Should I bring a power bank? Yes, especially for long bus rides or hiking.
Do I need a voltage converter? Argentina uses 220V. Check if your devices are dual-voltage.
Is WhatsApp used? Yes, for everything—booking restaurants, hotels, and tours.
Are there laundromats? Look for a “Lavadero.” You drop your clothes off and pick them up clean and folded.
What kind of hiking boots? Waterproof ones for Patagonia.
Should I bring a Kindle? Great for long flights and bus rides.
🏨 Accommodations
Are Airbnbs good in BA? Yes, they offer great value, but check if they accept card or cash.
What is a “Hostería”? A cozy, guesthouse-style hotel common in Patagonia.
Do hotels charge a 21% VAT? Foreigners paying with a foreign credit card are technically exempt from the 21% tax on accommodation.
Should I book in advance? For Patagonia in summer, yes—months ahead.
Are hostels safe? Generally, yes, and they are very social.
What is an “Estancia”? A traditional ranch where you can stay and experience gaucho culture.
Can I stay in the Iguazu National Park? Yes, at the Gran Meliá (expensive but stunning).
Is it better to stay in Puerto Iguazu or Foz do Iguaçu? Puerto Iguazu (Argentina) is generally more laid-back and closer to the best falls views.
Are there “love hotels”? Yes, called “Albergues Transitorios” or “Telos.”
Is air conditioning common? In cities and northern areas, yes. In Patagonia, it’s rarely needed.
✈️ Airports and Borders
EZE vs. AEP? EZE (Ezeiza) is international; AEP (Aeroparque) is closer to downtown and used for domestic flights.
How do I get from EZE to the city? Manuel Tienda León bus or a Cabify.
Do I need a visa? US, UK, and EU citizens usually don’t need one for tourism, but check for “reciprocity fees” which change often.
Can I cross to Chile by land? Yes, the Mendoza-Santiago crossing is beautiful but can close in winter due to snow.
How early should I arrive for domestic flights? 1.5 to 2 hours is usually enough.
Are there weight limits on domestic flights? Yes, budget airlines like FlyBondi are strict.
Can I bring wine home? Usually, 2–3 bottles in checked luggage is fine, but check your home country’s customs.
Is there a departure tax? Usually included in your ticket price now.
What is the PDI receipt? A paper given at immigration; keep it safe, though many things are digital now.
Is the “end of the world” sign in Ushuaia real? It’s a famous photo op in Tierra del Fuego National Park!