Category: Argentina

Categories
Argentina travel guide

Getting from Buenos Aires to Patagonia

Patagonia is a region in south Argentina , well known for natural landscape. Tourists come here for trekking, climbing glaciers, trying water sports and many more.

The most important cities in Patagonia are:

  • Ushuaia , the largest city in Tierra del Fuego, is the base for most treks and trips to Antarctica.
  • San Carlos de Bariloche , or simply Bariloche , is located on the foothills of the Andes and is well known trekking, climbing, extreme sports and skiing. You might just feel like you are somewhere in Switzerland not in Argentina, thanks to the atmosphere, chocolate boutiques and St. Bernard dogs on display (for tourists).
  • El Calafate is a small city in Patagonia , located on the glacial blue Lago Argentina. The natural beauty attracted travelers and the city is growing continuously.
  • Puerto Madryn is located on the shores of Gulfo Nuevo and is a very popular summer destination because of its beaches.

There are two easy ways for the travelers to get to Patagonia: via Buenos Aires , the capital of Argentina, or via Santiago de Chile, the capital of Chile. And most likely you’ll be traveling either to Bariloche or Ushuaia and then connect to other places in the area.

Quick summary

The cheapest way to travel between the capital of Buenos Aires and Patagonia is the bus. However, the traveling times are long. It’s cheaper to fly into Ushuaia than into Bariloche but make sure to book your flight in advance.

Getting from Buenos Aires to Bariloche

Flights

San Carlos de Bariloche International Airport (BRC) serves Bariloche and offers connections to/from both airports serving Buenos Aires: Ezeiza International Airport (EZE) and Aeroparque Jorge Newbery (AEP). Flights between the two cities are operated by: Aerochaco (Aeroparque), Aerolíneas Argentinas (Aeroparque, Ezeiza), Austral Líneas Aéreas (Aeroparque), LAD (Aeroparque) and LAN Argentina (Aeroparque).

During the low season (mid-May 2012) expect to pay from US$314 one way on LAN, while a return flight will set you back from US$610. The same prices are valid for early during the high season, too.

Read more about:
>>Cheap flights to Buenos Aires
>>Cheap flights to Bariloche

Buses

There are quite a lot of companies operating between the two cities. The travel time is between 20 h and 21 h and single fares start at AR$ 614 / US$140. Via Bariloche and Andesmar are just two options for your trip.

>>read more about Bus Travel in Argentina

Driving

The distance between the two cities is 1570 km (shortest route on RN 5) and you can cover it in about 18 ½ h. Of course, considering the distance, if you plan to rent a car, then you should plan this as a road trip rather than traveling from one point to another.

View Larger Map

Getting from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia

Flights

Ushuaia International Airport (USH) is a small airport serving the city and offering direct flights to Buenos Aires (Aeroparque). The flights are operated by Aerolíneas Argentinas and LAN Argentina.

During the low season (mid-May 2012) expect to pay from US$289 one way on Aerolíneas Argentinas, while a RT flight starts at US$579. By mid-September expect to find slightly cheaper flights (from US$246 one way) on LAN.

Buses

There are no direct buses between Buenos Aires and Ushuaia. You can connect through Rio Gallegos. Andesmar, El Pinguino and Via Bariloche offer buses from Buenos Aires to Rio Gallegos and the single fare starts at AR$ 804 / US$183. The travel time is between 35 h and 38 h 40 min.

From Rio Gallegos it’s another 12 h trip and the single fares start at AR$ 110 / US$25. Just show up at the bus station and ask for tickets.

Photo credit

Categories
Argentina travel guide

Getting from Buenos Aires to Punta del Este

Punta del Este is a resort town in Uruguay. It’s a very popular place among tourists looking for beaches, casinos and the regular resort activities. But although a popular place, it still has its unspoiled places if you are not exactly fond of the horde of tourists.

Quick summary

The easiest way to get to Punta del Este is by way of Montevideo , to which it’s connected by frequent buses (travel time: 2h 15min). So, instead of flying directly from Buenos Aires to Punta del Este, catch a bus or a ferry to Montevideo first and then take a bus for the last leg of the journey. Total price? Under US$50 per person.

Direct flights from Buenos Aires to Punta del Este

Capitan Corbeta CA Curbelo International Airport (PDP) serves Punta del Este , Uruguay and is not hub for any airline. There are direct year-round flights to/from Buenos Aires Aeroparque operated by BQB Líneas Aéreas and PLUNA, while Aerolíneas Argentinas operated only seasonal flights to/from the same airport.

Aeroparque Jorge Newbery (AEP) is the second airport serving the capital of Buenos Aires. Although it is mostly used to handle domestic flights, the airport also offers some international flights, including those to Punta del Este. The airport is located just 2 km from the city center.

During the low season (September 2012), expect to pay from US$123 on a direct flight on PLUNA. The same fares are available for a connecting flight through Montevideo (on the same airline). Return flights start at US$205 (connecting flight).

>>read more about cheap flights to Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires to Punta del Este via Montevideo

It’s cheaper and easier to get between Buenos Aires and Punta del Este by way of Montevideo. Once in Uruguay, just catch a bus to Punta del Este and you’ll reach the dream destination in no time.

There are direct flights between Ezeiza International Airport (EZE) – which serves Buenos Aires – and Aeropuerto Internacional de Carrasco (MVD) – which serves Montevideo. During the low season (September 2012), expect to pay from US$82 one way on PLUNA, while a return flight will set you back from US$140.

A cheaper option – $178.42 UYU / US$41 (promo fare online) – is to catch the fast ferry between Buenos Aires and Montevideo, operated by Buquebus . The travel time is 3 h 15 min and there are several departures per day.

The cheapest option is to catch a bus between Buenos Aires and Montevideo. The single fare is AR$ 160 / US$38 and the travel time is about 8 h. You can choose a night or a day bus.

>>read more about Getting from Buenos Aires to Montevideo

Once in Montevideo, catch a bus to Punta del Este. There are many departures per day and the travel time is 2h 15 min. The buses are operated by COT and COPSA. You can catch the buses directly from the airport. The single fare is US$7. The schedule is here .

Driving from Buenos Aires to Punta del Este

Technically, you can rent a car in Buenos Aires and drive the 1037 km to Punta del Este. The total travel time is 13 ½ h, but make sure to plan some stops along the way. Also, ask the rental company whether you are allowed to take the car across the border.

View Larger Map

Photo credit

Categories
Argentina travel guide

Getting from Buenos Aires to Cordoba

Cordoba is the second largest city in Argentina, known for the colonial architecture and the lovely hills surrounding the city. It is located in the heart of the Pampas and has a lovely nightlife thanks to the students attending its universities.

Because Cordoba is located in the center of Argentina, getting here from any Argentine city is really easy.

Quick summary

The cheapest way to get from Buenos Aires to Cordoba is by train but you’ll be spending quite a bit of time traveling. Another good options is to take the overnight bus between the two cities (about twice as expensive as the train ticket). Flying is the fastest option but the fares are expensive.

Flights from Buenos Aires (airport code: EZE) to Cordoba

Ezeiza International Airport (EZE), officially known as Ministro Pistarini International Airport , is the main airport serving Argentina and its capital Buenos Aires. The airport is located 22 km from the city center and is hub for Aerolíneas Argentinas and LAN Argentina.

Aeroparque Jorge Newbery (AEP) is the second airport serving the capital and this is where you’ll most likely need to get to if you plan to fly domestically. The airport is located just 2 km from the city center.

Ingeniero Aeronáutico Ambrosio L.V. Taravella International Airport (COR), commonly known as Pajas Blancas is located about 9 km from Cordoba’s city center. It is the third largest airport in the country.

Flights between Cordona and Buenos Aires are operated by: Aerochaco (Aeroparque), Aerolíneas Argentinas (Aeroparque and Ezeiza), Austral Líneas Aéreas (Aeroparque) and LAN Argentina (Aeroparque). The flight time is 1h 20 min. In mid-July 2012, expect to pay from US$182 one way on Aerolíneas Argentinas if you fly from Ezeiza. Flying from Aeroparque is slightly more expensive (from US$186 one way on LAN). A return flight in July 2012 will set you back from US$354 on LAN. The airfare doesn’t vary too much during the year.

Read more about:
>>Cheap flights to Cordoba
>>Cheap flights to Buenos Aires

Trains from Buenos Aires to Cordoba

Cordoba used to be a very important railway center in Argentina but nowadays there’s only one rail connection left: the line to Buenos Aires. The train runs two times a week and the travel time is about 16 h. A single ticket costs US$25. The slow speed is compensated by good dining options and sleeping cars.

>>read more about Train Travel in Argentina

Buses from Buenos Aires to Cordoba

The bus is now the most popular option for traveling between within Argentina. There are many companies operating buses between the two cities and the cheapest single ticket is AR$ 250 / US$57. The travel time is about 11 h and there are more than 20 departures per day. You can check the schedule here .

>> read more about Bus Travel in Argentina

Driving from Buenos Aires to Cordoba

You can rent a car in Buenos Aires and drive the 700 km to Cordoba. The total drive time is about 7 ½ h but you should consider making some stops along the way. Please note that you’ll be driving on toll roads.

View Larger Map

Photo credit

Categories
Argentina travel guide

Things to do in Mendoza

Mendoza is the center of the Argentinian wine industry and is also close to Aconcagua, one of the highest mountains in the world. But what else is there to do besides tasting wines and going hiking?

Wine tours

Many bodegas – wineries – offer wine tours and you can either search for them yourself or ask the personnel at the hotel for some ideas. You can also visit wineries in the area. Best time to visit Mendoza if you have wine tasting on your mind? March and April.

A walk in the park

Parque San Martín surely offers a lot more than just a walk in the park. If you plan to take a break from the wine tasting, then you can bike or walk here. Another good idea is to follow the path to Cerro de la Gloria for some lovely views of the area. For a modern feel, head to the Central Park with its interesting fountains.

People watching in Plaza Independencia

Plaza Independencia is the central main square. You can spend time people watching or checking out the buildings and restaurants in the area.

Take photos in Plaza España

Plaza España is probably the most beautiful square in the city. It highlights the special connection with Spain. It is decorated with typical Andalusian and Spanish motifs so make sure to bring your camera along.

Cooking classes

Along with wine tours, you can also take cooking classes in Mendoza. You learn to prepare several dishes but wine is definitely a major part of the class.

Go extreme: paragliding

Tandem paragliding can be practiced pretty much every day here. There are two companies which offer such experiences and the cost is about US$100 per flight (15 min).

Hiking

Cerro Alco can be reached after a pleasant half day hike from the city and it can be done independently. It offers lovely views of the Andes and is the base for paragliding, too.

If you want the path to yourself, plan the hike during the week as it’s quite popular with locals over the weekends and can get pretty crowded.

Climb Alta Montaña

Alta Montaña is the highest peak in the Americas. Don’t expect it to be an easy hike but it’s worth the experience. And remember, you cannot do this independently, you need to choose a reputable operator.

Skiing

The Andes are high mountains and the skiing season is a good reason to try the powdery snow. Las Leñas is the most important ski resort in the area. June to August are the months when you want to come here for skiing.

Horse riding

Gauchos are a big part of the Argentine culture and if you want to learn more about them, then a horse riding adventure is what you look for. Ask the personnel at the hotel (hostel) to recommend a good agency for an overnight tour.

White Water Rafting on Mendoza River

If paragliding isn’t your thing, maybe you can test your limits while navigating the river. Always go with a reputable agency and remember that , if you choose an insurance before you leave home, it should also comprise extreme sports.


Photo credits: Winery , Parque San Martín , Plaza Independencia , Plaza España , Paragliding , Climbing , Horse Riding , White water rafting

Categories
Argentina Food travel guide

What to Eat in Argentina: Famous Argentinian Foods

Buenos Aires is the steak capital of the world and the entire country feels like a land designed for the carnivores. But what do you do when you are a …vegetarian? The thing is that there are options for those not into meat, but a vegetarian in Argentina is most likely a tourist. Oh and just as a warming: the Argentinians seem to have a sweet tooth.

Steak

Beef is the most consumed meet in Argentina and steaks are definitely on your must-eat food while here. Remember that the animals are raised naturally so, for those used to mass production farming, the meat might seem a bit gamy. But the sauce and the salads (from organic vegetables) go really well with the meat.

You don’t even have to pay too much for such a meal. Look for parillas where steaks are excellent and affordable.

Asado

Asado stands for grilled meat. You can have excellent asado in Buenos Aires but , to fully understand what this is about and taste it properly, enjoy it in Bariloche after some time spent burning calories in nature.

The whole idea behind such a BBQ is not to eat just…grilled meat. The process of preparing the lunch starts in mid-morning and, before tasting the beef, you also get to eat cheese, blood sausage and intestines. Then follows the baby goat and only at the end…the beef.

Empañadas

Whenever I hear this word I think about Anthony Bourdain’s No reservations episode in which he had to talk about empañadas, but didn’t exactly feel like.

Empañadas are a pocket of dough filled with cheese, meat, vegetables and even fruits, deep fried, of course. Needless to say there are plenty of varieties of this food which you can taste to your own delight during your stay in Argentina.

If you are vegetarian, go for the queso & cebolla (cheese and onion) empanadas.

Dulce de Leche

This is a milky caramel spread which can be eaten in the morning on toast or between cookies to make Alfajores, for snacks.

Helado

This is the direct result of the Palermo’s Italy legacy and the caramel is at best in this Argentine gelato. During hot summer evenings, the heladerias are packed with locals and tourists alike.

Pasta

Now, what would pasta have to do with a country in South America or better said with its capital of Buenos Aires? Well, half of the capital’s population comes from Italy and they brought the food with them (see Helado, too). So don’t be surprised to see trattorias pretty much everywhere. Expect to find many types of pasta dishes, including ravioli.

And yes, pizza is also good but don’t be surprised to find thicker crusts than in Italy. However, if you look for something that doesn’t have to do with meat, you are in luck as you can find vegetarian options, too.

Medialunas

The idea of mixing coffee with something sweet for breakfast surely came to Argentina together with the Italians, so you can eat medialunas (sticky croissants) for breakfast or as a snack in the afternoon.

Tostadas

They are either toasted bread with jam or grilled sandwiches with ham and cheese. If you aren’t into croissants for breakfast, these are the best options.

Provoleta

Provoleta is cheese on the barbeque. Yes, it’s delicious and no, they are not the only ones who do it (hint: Greece!). Provolone cheese on the barbeque is an excellent choice if you want to escape the meat meals, but be aware that it might have some meaty taste, too as the cheese is grilled on the same barbeque as the meat.

A bonus: mate

Mate is a very popular drink in Argentina and is made with brewed yerba plant leaves. It’s a pick-me-up which can be just as addictive as coffee. Looks unappetizing but it’s tasty (however, you probably have to get used to it).

Photo credits: Steak , Asado , Empañadas , Dulce de Leche , Helado , Pasta , Medialunas , Tostadas , Provoleta , Mate

Categories
Argentina travel guide

Things to do in Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires , the capital of Argentina, is one of the largest cities in Latin America. It offers a large variety of cultural events, while the nightlife is lively. Dubbed as the “Paris of the south”, Buenos Aires has a European feel…with a Latin twist.

There are plenty of things to do here, some of them tree, so if you are planning a trip to Buenos Aires, make sure to read our suggestions.

A walk through La Boca

La Boca is the oldest neighborhood in Buenos Aires and it can surely be a tourist trap. But it’s also an interesting cultural experience. You can see tango being danced on the streets, interesting cafes and soon enough you won’t know where to point that camera of yours.

You can also visit San Telmo, with its colonial-style houses and cobblestone streets.

Take a self guided tour

What’s best then exploring your city at your own pace, but with the help of a map and tours created by the tourist office ? The maps and instructions are free to download so all that’s left is for you to choose the one which sound more appealing.

There are also several websites which offer free guided tours. These are excellent options if you want to learn more about the history of the city and its landmarks. Plus, the tour guide is always friendly and speaks English.

Do some people watching on Plaza de Mayo

It is the oldest square in Buenos Aires and is a lovely place to just do…nothing. Or better said: sit back, relax and watch the people pass by.

Take a photo of the Obelisk

El Obelisco is probably the most important landmark in the city. It’s where the major cultural events take place and where you’ll see the locals cheer after a victorious sport event.

Visit a weekend fair

The Feria de Mataderos (Fair of the Mataderos) takes place every Saturday during the summer months in front of the Mercado Nacional de Hacienda and it’s the best place to browse traditional handicrafts and all things related to gauchos.

Tip: try the food, too. Buenos Aires is known for the excellent steak.

Tango

Ask the personnel at the hotel or hostel about the free tango performances in your area. Or , if you have the money, invest in some tango classes.

Take a special metro ride

Line A still uses wooden cars, which appeal to both kids and adults. Kids under 5 get to ride them for free. It’s best to show up during non peak hours.

Take a walk away from the city’s busy streets

You can walk or bike in Reserva Ecológica Costanera Sur (Ecological Reserve), which is a park with lovely views of Buenos Aires. Pack a picnic basket and enjoy a day in nature.

Another option is the Bosques de Palermo (Forests of Palermo), an urban oasis featuring artificial lakes and a lot of trees and roses.

An interesting walk through Recoleta Cemetery

Unless you are a bit morbid – or fascinated by interesting cemeteries – this will sound a bit weird but … Recoleta Cemetery is where Argentina’s notables are having their eternal rest. And the mausoleums and statues are absolutely amazing. Try to find where Eva Duarte de Peron is buried.

A weekend trip to Tigre Delta

There are day tours available to Tigre Delta, a sub tropical paradise away from the city’s hustle and bustle, but , to get to it better, plan for a weekend getaway. It can be easily reached by train from Buenos Aires.

Attend a football (soccer) game

Football (soccer) plays an important role in the life of the Argentine. Nothing will prepare you for the chaos on the stadium but it’s surely worth your time. The game you want to attend is the “superclasico”, a historical “battle” between Boca Juniors and River Plate.

Photo credits : Walk in the city , La Boca , Plaza de Mayo , The Obelisk , Fair , Tango
Park , Cemetery , Tigre Delta

Categories
Argentina travel guide

Getting from Buenos Aires to Bariloche

Bariloche is located at the foothills of the Andes. It’s where all tourists who plan to explore the lakes or mountains arrive , whether they plan to hike during the summer or ski during the winter.

Quick summary

The distance between the two cities is not exactly short so traveling between Buenos Aires and Bariloche is not exactly the cheapest affair. But the bus fare is about half of the airfare and you also depart and arrive from stations much closer to the city centers than the airports.

Flights from Buenos Aires (airport code: AEP) to Bariloche

Ezeiza International Airport (EZE), officially known as Ministro Pistarini International Airport , is the main airport serving the capital of Buenos Aires and Argentina. Located 22 km from the city center, it is hub for Aerolíneas Argentinas and LAN Argentina.

Aeroparque Jorge Newbery (AEP) is the second airport serving the capital and the one handling the majority of flights to/from Bariloche. It is located just 2 km from the city center and it is the main airport handling domestic flights.

Bariloche is served by San Carlos de Bariloche International Airport (BRC) , located 13 km from the city center. It is the fourth largest airport in Argentina but it’s not hub for any airline.

Flights between Buenos Aires and Bariloche are operated by: Aerochaco (Aeroparque), Aerolíneas Argentinas (Aeroparque, Ezeiza), Austral Líneas Aéreas (Aeroparque), LAD (Aeroparque) and LAN Argentina (Aeroparque).

The flight time between Buenos Aires Aeroparque and Bariloche is about 2 ½ h. During the low season (mid-May 2012) expect to pay from US$314 one way on LAN. A return flight starts at US$610. The same prices are valid for early during the high season, too.

Read more about:

>>Flights to Buenos Aires
>>Flights to Bariloche

Buses from Buenos Aires to Bariloche

There are a lot of bus companies operating between the two cities, including:

  • Via Bariloche : operates 6 buses daily between the cities and also offers the possibility to buy tickets from two other sister companies. There are four types of seats available, which also means the prices are different. The cheapest are Semi Cama seats and a single ticket is 614 Argentine peso / US$140. The travel time is 21 h.
  • Andesmar : operates three buses on this route and the fares are the same. The travel time is about 20 h.

Both companies allow travelers to purchase the tickets online.

>>read more about Bus Travel in Argentina

Driving from Buenos Aires to Bariloche

You can rent a car in the capital and plan to drive the 1570 km (shortest route on RN 5) all the way to Bariloche. The total drive time is about 18 ½ hours (as per Google Maps), but you should plan this as route trip, with multiple stops along the way. Please note that the route mentioned has toll roads.

View Larger Map

Photo credit

Categories
Accommodation Argentina

Cheap Hotels in Mendoza

Mendoza is the center of the Argentine wine industry, located in the desert Cuyo region. It is also the gateway into Aconcagua, one of the highest mountains in the world, offering plenty of opportunities for hiking and climbing.

The city is generally noisy because of the traffic, so if you are looking for a quite area, search for hotels between Plaza Independencia and Park San Martin. In the eastern part of the city you can find the cheapest options for hotels.

There are quite a lot of hostels for those looking for the cheapest options, but you can also find mid-range and luxury hotels in Mendoza.

During the low season, expect to pay from US$24 per night for a double or twin room in a 2-star hotel , while in a 3-star hotel , for the same room type, you’ll pay from US$55 per night (and you’ll be 1 km from Plaza Independencia). By the end of the high season (April), expect to pay from US$34 per night for a double room in a 2-star hotel and from US$60 per night in a 3-star hotel (near San Martin Street). Should you plan to visit Mendoza in the summer (November), expect higher prices : from US$50 per night in a double room in a 2-star hotel and from US$65 per night in a double room in a 3-star hotel (close to the Airport).

Generally speaking, if you want to save money plan your visit during the low season. Spring and Fall are excellent times to come to Mendoza. If you must travel during the high season book in advance and take advantage of the discounts offered online.

Search this map to find cheap hotels in Mendoza, or find even more hotel options by searching with the widget above.

Categories
Accommodation Argentina

Cheap Hotels in Bariloche

Bariloche is the gateway into Patagonia, a scenic city tucked between lakes and the Andes. Most visitors come here to enjoy the nature and many are looking for places to stay outside the city limits.

There are plenty of hostels for those looking for a cheap place to stay – and many of them offer stunning views of the area – but there are also budget, mid-range and luxury hotels for those looking for something different.

In most cases, you’ll find that hotels located in the city center – or close to it – might cost less than hotels located outside the city, especially if they offer panoramic views of the area.

During the low season (April to June), expect to find double rooms with shared bathrooms from US$21 per night and apartments (for 2) from US$30 per night. A double room in a 3-star hotel wills set you back from US$35 per night. During the high season, expect to pay from US$26 per night for a double room with shared bathroom. In a 2-star hotel, double rooms start at US$45 per night , while if you choose a 3-star hotel, expect to pay from US$90 per night.

Make sure to book your hotel room in advance, especially if you plan to visit during the high season (either summer or winter).

Search this map to find cheap hotels in Bariloche, or find even more hotel options by searching with the widget above.

Photo credit

Categories
Argentina travel guide

Why You Should Add Buenos Aires to Your RTW Trip

Buenos Aires is a desirable destination for any traveler. It has tons to offer travelers, with its unique mix of South American and European cultures. The people, the food, the wine, and the sites are all appealing and keep tourists coming back for more. The city is a great place to visit for a vacation, but what about adding Buenos Aires to a round the world trip itinerary?

Our sister site, BootsnAll, is the premiere site to go to for RTW (round the world) travel. If you’ve thought about taking an extended trip, the round the world travel planning section is the place you want to start. It will give you all the tips and advice you’ll need for planning a trip of this magnitude.

Building a trip around a city like Buenos Aires is a great idea for round the world travelers. It is a big city with plenty of western amenities to help with the culture shock, but it’s still different enough from home to seem completely foreign. And one of the best things about Buenos Aires is the price it costs to travel there. It may not be as cheap as it once was, but backpackers can still get by on about $30-$40/day. Buenos Aires hostels can be found for a cheap price as well, and you can eat like a king for small sum, making this a perfect addition to your round the world trip.