A Month of Unforgettable Adventures: Exploring Argentina’s Hidden Gems

Since arriving in Argentina in mid-November, I’ve spent over a month here, including a 10-day excursion to Chile and a 10-day adventure in Antarctica. This is the longest I’ve stayed in any country during my travels so far.

The journey took me through some of Argentina’s most captivating destinations: Buenos Aires, Iguazu, Bariloche, El Calafate, El Chalten, Ushuaia, and Salta.

Here’s a breakdown of the cost of living from highest to lowest: El Chalten > Ushuaia = El Calafate > Bariloche > Iguazu > Buenos Aires > Salta.
And my personal preferences: Salta > Bariloche > El Chalten > Ushuaia > Iguazu > Buenos Aires > El Calafate.

Some key tips for travelers:
1. While the current blue rate is close to the official exchange rate, you might find discounts when paying for tours, meals, and bus rides in cash. It’s always a good idea to ask proactively.
2. Be prepared for surprisingly high prices in El Chalten, where the quality of food ingredients can be disappointing.

If you plan to cook, it’s best to stock up on supplies in other places and bring them with you. For example, tomatoes that cost 2200 pesos per kg in El Calafate will set you back 6600 pesos in El Chalten.
3. Don’t forget to pack plenty of sunscreen and moisturizer! For those with dry skin, bringing skincare oil and papaya ointment is highly recommended.

4. Keep some small change, like 500 pesos, handy for tipping. This is especially useful for porters who help with your luggage at stations.
5. There’s a 1000 peso departure tax at the El Chalten station, so make sure you have this amount ready.
6. In some southern regions, the roads are still gravel, making a mask essential to protect against dust.

In summary, while Argentina offers a wealth of exciting experiences and stunning landscapes, it comes with a hefty price tag, often providing poor value for money. The high costs of some tours and attractions made me reconsider a few activities. Given the expense, I doubt I’ll be returning anytime soon.