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Mendoza Travel Guide

Last Updated: May 4, 2023

Pack-laden donkeys and people walking along a dirt path with towering mountains in the background near Mendoza, Argentina

Situated on the eastern side of the Andes and settled in the crest of hilly terrain, Mendoza is famous for its world-class wine, mouth-watering steak, and beautiful landscapes. It’s Argentina’s version of Napa Valley .

While the city isn’t going to win any beauty awards, you don’t visit Mendoza for the city – you come for the amazing food and wineries that dot the region.

I spent over a week traveling Mendoza, biking around wineries, hiking mountains, visiting canyons, and gorging on steak and wine. It was everything I thought it would be and more!

The city makes for a good base for lots of activities. Both foodies and outdoor enthusiasts won’t want to miss Mendoza. From hiking to rafting to paragliding, there is a ton to do here. And if you love wine, come to this region and drink its famous Malbecs. You won’t be disappointed.

This Mendoza travel guide can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time in this gorgeous region of the country!

Table of Contents

  • Things to See and Do
  • Typical Costs
  • Suggested Budget
  • Money-Saving Tips
  • Where to Stay
  • How to Get Around
  • How to Stay Safe
  • Best Places to Book Your Trip
  • Related Blogs on Mendoza

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in mendoza.

Historic brick building built into coppery-gold mineral deposits at Puente del Inca near Mendoza, Argentina

1. Hike Aconcagua

Located on the route to Puente del Inca and Uspallata, Aconcagua stands over 6,900 meters and is the highest summit in North America. It’s perfect to climb from November to March and the mountain is also surrounded by over 185,000 acres of gorgeous national parks you can explore.

2. Enjoy outdoor adventures

Beyond hiking, there are boundless opportunities for outdoor fun amongst the glorious backdrop of Mendoza’s countryside. Paragliding, climbing, mountain biking, camping, rafting, and long-distance trekking are all popular activities in the region. Tandem paragliding starts at 18,500 ARS.

3. Visit Puente del Inca

Puente del Inca is a natural stone bridge that owes its coppery-gold color to minerals in the Las Cuevas River’s water. Puente del Inca is also the name of the hot springs nearby, and a great place to go hiking. It’s just under 200 kilometers drive from Mendoza and great for a day-trip or overnight visit.

4. Take a wine tour

Home to more than a thousand wineries, most vineyard day-tours cost around 8,300-12,500 ARS while the half-day tours are around 4,200 ARS. I would recommend taking a bike tour as it’s a more scenic way to see the wineries (avoid the YTA tour). You can also take the city tram to Bodega Lopez, which offers free tours.

5. Go biking

Taking a bike trip around the region is an awesome way to see the area. Most days are warm and sunny, perfect for slow rides around the mountains or hilly tours through the vineyards. Consider a tour company to show you around or just grab a rental and get on your way!

Other Things to See and Do in Mendoza

1. relax in parque san martin.

After exploring the area, have a relaxing day on the Parque San Martin grounds. This park has become a must-see attraction for visitors and locals alike. Thanks to its French-Argentine landscape architect, Carlos Thays, the 20th-century park is a mix of French and English landscape styles. Its picturesque 971 acres contain forested sections, botanical gardens, a zoo, the city’s natural history museum, an amphitheater, a large lake, and restaurants, as well as 34 sculptures and the El Rosedal Rose Garden. You can easily spend a full day here.

2. Celebrate at the Grape Harvest Festival

Fiesta de la Vendimia is Mendoza’s largest festival — and one of the biggest in the entire country. It begins in January, though the crux of the festival occurs on the first Saturday of March and continues all weekend. Held in celebration of the winemaking industry, events include the blessing of the fruit, parades, free wine samples, and folklore performances. The event culminates in a performance by hundreds of dancers, a large firework display, and the crowning of the Reina Nacional de la Vendimia (the National Harvest Queen). With origins in the 17th century (though the first official modern festival was in 1936), the final weekend attracts over 40,000 visitors from across the country and beyond.

3. Admire Plaza España

Plaza España, known for its beautiful colored Spanish tiles, is a restful, serene place to visit. Designed like a typical Spanish plaza with a large central fountain and statues, this is your tranquil getaway from the city. The exquisite ceramic tilework and murals depict Mendoza’s 16th-century origin story and scenes from famous Spanish and Argentine literary works. On the weekends, there is a charming artisan’s fair here with locals selling their handicrafts.

4. Wander the historic center

If you are looking for a diversion from all that outdoor activity and wine drinking, the historic center provides plenty of sights, parks, and museums. Meander around the traditional central market, with its produce and hot food stalls, or peruse the traditional handicraft markets that pop up at Plaza de la Independencia and Avenida San Martin, the main thoroughfare. For an urban winery, head to Bodega Los Toneles, just minutes away from the historic center.

5. Visit Uspallata

To soak up even more of your breathtaking surroundings, head to Uspallata, a village situated in the Andes region heading towards Santiago in Chile . While this is a place to relax and unwind, it is also of historical and cultural significance. This is the site where, in 1817, José de San Martín (the Liberator of Argentina, Chile and Peru) sent his army to fight the Spanish in Chile. At 100 kilometers (62 miles) from Mendoza, the journey takes 1.5 hours by car or taxi and 2.5 hours by bus.

6. Go back in time at Museo Fundacional

This is the perfect museum for buffing up on the history of Mendoza and Argentina. Trace the city’s timeline through the descriptive exhibits (though keep in mind that they’re only in Spanish). The main highlight is checking out the subterranean original city remnants, which are all that remain of the destructive earthquake of 1861 (the earthquake killed 4,300 of Mendoza’s 12,000 residents and destroyed almost every building).

7. Stroll Peatonal Sarmiento

Known commonly as “the pedestrian zone,” this tree-lined street offers an escape from the congestion of the city. Open only to those traveling on foot, this is a great place to do some shopping, check out street performers and eclectic street vendors, or just grab a coffee and lounge at one of the outdoor terraces. The street leads right into Plaza de la Independencia, the largest plaza in the city, and another popular place to just hang out and people-watch.

8. Go river rafting

For some of the best rafting in Argentina , head down the Mendoza River. Typically beginning at Potrerillos, this is usually an all-day activity that takes you over some 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) of rapids, and usually includes lunch. A full-day rafting trip costs 12,000-17,500 ARS, including lunch, while a half-day is 4,500 ARS.

9. Soak in Villavicencio

Surrounded by beautiful parks, gardens, and various walking trails, this resort town became popular for its healing hot springs in the 1940s. Beyond the mineral-rich waters lies a protected natural reserve of over 180,000 acres. Enjoy the beautiful scenery, Darwin’s Petrified Forest (Darwin stayed here during his world tour and discovered this petrified forest), Los Caracoles viewpoint, and the ancient Inca rock paintings. At 60 kilometers (37 miles) away from Mendoza, it’s common (and easiest) to visit via guided tour. Tours start at 3,400 ARS per person for a half-day tour and 16,000 ARS for a full-day tour that includes lunch at a winery.

10. Try paragliding

If you’d like to exercise your adrenaline muscles, Mendoza is a great place to try paragliding. There are many travel companies that offer paragliding tours from the base of the Andes Mountains over the wineries. The entire experience takes around a half-day, with an in-air time of about 25-40 minutes depending on wind conditions. Expect to pay about 18,500 ARS per person for a tandem flight with an experienced professional.

11. Day trip to San Rafael and Canon del Atuel

Just over three hours by bus from the city of Mendoza, San Rafael is a central hub for just about any outdoor activity you can think of. From hiking to kayaking to paragliding, there are countless exciting things to do, all with a stunning backdrop. My biggest recommendation is to head to Canon del Atuel, just outside of San Rafael. This breathtaking canyon boasts unique plant life, lakes, rivers, and natural sculptures, along with panoramic views. Simply take the public bus to Valle Grande, as the route takes you through the sights. Even better is packing a lunch and having a picnic (also be sure to bring lots of water). The bus from Mendoza to San Rafael costs 540 ARS for a one-way ticket.

For more information on other cities in Argentina, check out these guides:

  • Buenos Aires Travel Guide

Mendoza Travel Costs

Colorful striped mountains near Mendoza, Argentina

Hostel prices – During peak season, a bed in a 4-6-bed dorm costs around 2,200-3,500 ARS per night, while beds in an 8-10-bed dorm cost 1,800 ARS per night. Private rooms cost 4,500-5,700 ARS per night.

During off-peak season, you can find 4-6-bed dorms for 1,500 ARS per night and private rooms for 4,100 ARS per night. Keep in mind that some hostels close in the off-season.

Free Wi-Fi, kitchens, and a simple free breakfast are usually standard. Some hostels have outdoor bars for socializing and a couple even have outdoor pools.

For those traveling with a tent, there are many campgrounds surrounding the city of Mendoza. Expect to pay around 800 ARS per person for a basic plot. Wi-Fi is usually available and some campgrounds have pools.

Budget hotel prices – Budget hotels start at around 4,800 ARS per night for a double room with a private bathroom. After that, prices go as high as 6,700 ARS per night for nicer accommodations. Free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, and free breakfast are all standard.

Airbnb has exploded in this town, with private rooms starting at 1,800 ARS per night. You can find entire apartments starting at 3,675 ARS per night.

Food prices – Argentine food has a heavy Mediterranean influence due to its colonial and immigrant history. Empanadas, pizza, polenta, and pasta are all major components of Argentine cuisine. However, Argentines are most famous for their beloved asado (barbeque grilled or on an open fire) and consumption of beef in general, especially steak and ribs. The favorite national dessert is dulce de leche , a caramel spread made from condensed milk.

Unfortunately for the budget traveler, food in Mendoza is expensive. It’s a place meant for splashing out. Be sure to take advantage of specials and cheap eats to get the most for your money.

Breakfast deals cost 200-450 ARS and include a coffee and toast, pastry, or eggs. Lunch specials are around 600-900 ARS. For a good cafe, visit Caffe Jack near the main square. It has fast Wi-Fi, good and affordable food, and friendly staff!

Cheap meals at the local burger/sandwich shops cost around 350-500 ARS. In most of the cafes around the city, you’re looking at 450-675 ARS per dish. Pizzas are popular in the city and cost 500-600 ARS for a personal pizza or 800-1,100 ARS for a shareable pie. Fast food (think Mcdonald’s) is around 470 ARS for a value meal.

Asian restaurants and takeaways are other great options for cheap yet filling meals. A dish at an Indian restaurant is 350-420 ARS, while a takeaway kebab is 300 ARS.

At a traditional yet casual Argentinian steakhouse, steaks cost around 950-1,350 ARS, while vegetable-based pasta dishes cost 580-700 ARS. If you are looking for a nice sit-down meal at a fancier restaurant with good steak and wine, expect to pay at least 3,200 ARS.

In terms of drinks, expect to pay 350 ARS for a beer, 200 ARS for a glass of wine, 850 ARS for a bottle of wine at a restaurant, 400 ARS for a cocktail, and 250 ARS for a cappuccino.

You can buy a week’s worth of groceries (including bottles of wine) for around 3,700 ARS. This gets you basic staples like pasta, rice, seasonal produce, and some meat or fish.

Backpacking Mendoza Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker’s budget of 6,200 ARS per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, cook most of your meals, limit your drinking, rent a bike to take public transportation to get around, and do mostly free activities like hiking.

On a mid-range budget of 12,000 ARS per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb, eat out for most meals, enjoy a few drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like wine tours and rafting trips.

On a “luxury” budget of 23,600 ARS or more per day, you stay in a hotel, eat at fancier sit-down restaurants with steak and wine, splurge on a rental car or take tours, and do whatever else you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in ARS.

Mendoza Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

As one of the most visited destinations in the country, Mendoza isn’t a cheap place to visit. Mendoza should be considered one of your splurge cities. Eat the steak, drink the wine, and offset those costs by cooking your lunch. If you buy your own groceries and tour the sights and surroundings independently, you’ll save lots of money. Here’s are a few ways to save money here:

  • Bike – To save on taxi and bus fares, bike around the city and to the wineries. You can rent a bike for around 500 ARS a day from companies like Mr. Hugo Bicycle Rental and Maipu Bikes.
  • Buy wine at the grocery store – If you buy wine at the grocery store, you’ll get the same great local varieties for a much better price. Prices start around 350 ARS instead of 800-1,100 ARS in restaurants.
  • Travel off-peak – You’ll find cheaper flights and accommodation in the off-season from April to December.
  • Get the breakfast and lunch specials – Most of the restaurants and cafes (especially those downtown) offer breakfast deals for 200-400 ARS. Set lunch menus cost around 600-900 ARS (often including steak). If you want to eat at the city’s many restaurants, it’s best to do it during lunch!
  • Take a free walking tour – Vivi MZA offers a 2-3-hour walking tour that can introduce you to the history and culture of the city. Just remember to tip your guide at the end!
  • Stay with a local – Couchsurfing connects you with locals who can give you a free place to stay and share their insider tips and advice. It’s the best way to meet locals and save money.
  • Pack a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a water bottle with a filter to save money and reduce your single-use plastic usage. My preferred bottle is LifeStraw as it has a built-in filter to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Mendoza

Looking for budget-friendly accommodation? Here are my suggested places to stay in Mendoza:

  • Hostel International Mendoza
  • Gorilla Hostel
  • Lagares Hostel

How to Get Around Mendoza

Red tram running along the street in Mendoza, Argentina

Public transportation – Mendoza has a fairly reliable public transportation system. You’ll need to get a SUBE card because you can’t pay on the buses or trams. It can be purchased at kiosks around the city. Bus and trams are 20 ARS each ride.

For onward travel to Santiago, the 7-10 hour bus costs between 3,500-5,000 depending on the time and class of service. The bus to nearby San Rafael is 540 ARS.

Bicycle Rental – Renting a bicycle in Mendoza is a very common way to get around, especially for visiting the mountains and the wineries. You can rent a bike for around 500 ARS per day with companies like Maipu Bike Rentals or Mr. Hugo’s Bikes.

Taxis – For taxis, the starting fare is 23.50 ARS, going up 23 ARS per kilometer. Airport transfers are around 1,300-2,000 ARS.

When to Go to Mendoza

Mendoza has year-round sunshine, so it’s always a good time to visit. It doesn’t rain very often, and when it does, it doesn’t last for long.

Mendoza is hottest from December to March, where temperatures hover around 30°C (86°F) and go as high as 40°C (104°F). It can cool off in the evenings though, so be sure to pack something warm. January and February can sometimes be rainy as well.

Winter is from June to September, and it’s the driest and sunniest time of year but with cold nights. The average temperature during this time is 14°C (58°F).

October to April is considered the best time to visit. Spring (October-November) and fall (March-April) have average temperatures around 21°C (70°F) and the wineries are busy pouring their best stuff. It’s also the best time for any outdoor adventure activities.

How to Stay Safe in Mendoza

Mendoza is generally a safe place to backpack and travel — even if you’re traveling solo, and even as a solo female traveler. However, petty theft is very common here so you’ll need to be cautious. Don’t flaunt expensive jewelry or belongings here and always try to blend in when you can.

Cell phone theft is incredibly common in Mendoza, and thieves will sometimes literally snatch the phone right from your hand in broad daylight. For that reason, you need to always stay vigilant. Keep your phone and wallet out of reach and secure in your bag. If you need to bring your phone out, step into a store to look at it.

Lock your bags on overnight buses and make sure your valuables are secure and out of reach as theft can occur.

If you’re renting a car, never leave it unlocked and unattended. Don’t leave any valuables in it overnight either as break-ins can occur.

Crime has been slightly on the increase in Mendoza in recent years due to its growth. It’s not overly serious, but it’s a good idea to avoid Plaza de la Independencia and Parque General San Martín after dark (especially if you’re alone).

Solo female travelers will want to be vigilant here. Never accept drinks from strangers or leave your drink unattended at the bar. Whenever possible avoid walking around alone just to be safe.

To learn more about potential scams you might encounter, read about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you experience an emergency, call 911.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Mendoza Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

  • Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
  • Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
  • Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
  • Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
  • SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
  • LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
  • Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
  • Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Mendoza Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Argentina travel and continue planning your trip:

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12 Ways to Save Money in Argentina

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  • Where To Stay
  • Transportation
  • Booking Resources
  • Related Blogs

Travelling King

The Ultimate Travel guide to Mendoza

Panoramic view of MOTORHOME RV In Chilean landscape in Andes. Family trip traval vacation in mauntains

La Ciudad de Mendoza—one of the most beautiful, peaceful, and unique cities in all of South America. Located east of the Andes Mountains in the northern-central part of Argentina, Mendoza City is the perfect destination for any traveler looking for a new city to explore.

Thrill seekers will enjoy a diverse selection of activities including mountain climbing and hiking, horse-back riding, and skiing.

At the same time, those looking for a weekend filled with fine wine and delicate cuisine will be equally pleased with what Mendoza has to offer.

If you want to experience the best of both worlds, this city is the place to be. Not sure how you should spend your time in Mendoza? Use our ultimate travel guide below to help spark your next adventure!

This ultimate travel guide to Mendoza will show you all the most beautiful places in Mendoza, what to expect when visiting, where to stay in Mendoza and things to do in Mendoza which will help you in planning a trip to Mendoza.

Plan your trip?

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Need help planning your trip from start to finish? Check out these helpful links:

  • Cheap flights
  • Savings on accommodation from hostels to luxury hotels
  • Affordable car rental options
  • Affordable sightseeing tours and day trips
  • Travel Adapter – All in one so you don’t have to carry a bunch around

This post contains some affiliate links for your convenience. Click here to read my full disclosure policy.

Table of Contents

How to get to Mendoza

If traveling within Argentina, Mendoza is very accessible. All major cities fly into the city and traveling by bus is equally as convenient.

If flying from out of country, your best bet would be to first fly into Buenos Aires. From there, a bus ride to Mendoza would last about 13 hours, and a flight would take about 1.5 hours.

Of course, flying directly to the Mendoza from a neighboring country is possible, but may be a bit more expensive. Or, choose from one of the multiple car rental companies (but…make sure you can drive stick-shift!)

MENDOZA, ARGENTINA - Aircraft and ground vehicles manoeuvre on the tarmac at Mendoza Airport.

What to expect in Mendoza

The official language of Mendoza is Spanish, and the official currency is the Argentine peso .

However, because of its proximity to Chile and its reputation as the wine country of South America, it is a popular tourist region so expect to encounter many foreigners.

Typically, tipping in Argentina isn’t common, but if you have a particularly good experience with a service worker, feel free to leave a small tip as a gesture of appreciation.

Depending on the time of year and where you are, you may run into street performers or children attempting to sell you something.

Tipping in these occasions are never expected, but always appreciated. Overall, expect beautiful people, beautiful landscapes, and beautiful weather.

How to get around in Mendoza

Luckily, you have options. Mendoza has a light rail system that runs from the city center all the way to Maipú (a city within the Mendoza province, about 45 minutes away).

If you are traveling to the city by bus, the terminal is located across the street from downtown.

Also, bike rentals are available throughout the city, as are taxi services. However, you may not even find yourself needing transportation!

Depending on where you are staying and what you want to do, walking is a perfectly reasonable and easy mode of transportation.

MENDOZA, ARGENTINA - View of Metrotranvia Light Rail train in Mendoza, Argentina

The best time to visit Mendoza

Well…this depends on what you want to do in Mendoza. Generally speaking, the best time to visit Mendoza is considered to be from their Spring (October or November) until their Fall (March or April).

During this time, expect to see beautiful colors, picturesque skies, and crisp, bursting flowers. However, if you want to visit Mendoza during the ski season, plan your trip for some time between May/June and August/September.

MENDOZA, ARGENTINA - Pedestrians on San Martin Avenue in Argentina 4th largest city

Where to stay in Mendoza

There are many options in terms of where to stay in Mendoza. To begin, there are many luxury hotel options such as the Park Hyatt or Sheraton Mendoza. Or, on the other hand, find local luxury accommodations at hotels such as the Entre Cielos Luxury Wine Hotel & Spa or Cavas Wine Lodge .

If you are looking for a cheaper option, hostels are where you should stay. Booking your accommodations with a local hostel is a wonderful option for solo travelers and groups of backpackers alike.

Prices are as low as one US dollar per night! Also, an incredible perk about hostels is the relationships that you will form. Travelers from all over the world choose to rest their heads at a hostel, and there is no telling who you will meet.

Additionally, a lot of hostels offer communal meals and group outings such as city tours, night club tours, etc.

However, if you are looking for your own, personal space but don’t want to book a luxury hotel. You can book anything from private rooms with shared common spaces to your own personal apartment or home.

Local hosts are known for their hospitality and are guaranteed to provide you with some unique recommendations for things to do in the city.

skyline of Mendoza in Argentina under blue sky

Things to do in Mendoza

What to do in Mendoza City? Or…what to not do in Mendoza City? Obviously, one of the best things to do in Mendoza is to go wine tasting.

For both wine aficionados and novice wine drinkers, Mendoza is the perfect place to visit to indulge in any and everything wine-related .

Reaping over 1,500 wineries, Mendoza offers wine tours at large wine corporations such Zuccardi or Catena Zapata as well as small, craft wineries that are family run.

For example, the winery of Carmelo Patti is considered to be one of the most humble, passionate craft wineries in the whole world.

Grape plantation in the state of Mendoza, Argentina

If you are more so interested in outdoor adventure, you also have plenty of options while visiting Mendoza.

Go fly fishing with Trout and Wine, or take a rafting class with Argentina Rafting while gazing at the beautiful landscape of the Andes Mountains.

Mountain climbing options include expeditions through the Aconcagua Mountain range . Or, if you want to leisurely enjoy the scenery, bike your way through the vineyards of Maipú.

Early morning in the late autumn: Volcano Aconcagua Cordillera and Vineyard. Andes mountain range in the Argentine province of Mendoza

Horseback riding outings are another great option when wanting to relax and take in the incredible scenery.

Don Daniel Ranch offers a great full day horseback riding option , but half-day options are easily as accessible.

Panoramic view of a group of hikers trekking in the Andes Argentina South America

One of my favorite things to do in Mendoza is to explore the many street markets and shops. For example, on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday there is an outdoor crafts market on Plaza Independencia.

Plaza Independencia was created as a result of the many earthquakes in Mendoza. The city wanted to create a safe haven for residents, so it decided to design a central plaza where everyone could gather, and Plaza Independencia was born.

The plaza is surrounded by four smaller plazas, all of which host street markets on the weekends: Plaza San Martin, Plaza Chile, Plaza Italia, and Plaza España.

Don’t forget to stop at the antique markets in Plaza Pellegrini. Additionally, Mendoza is host to a variety of traditional, Argentinian stores such as Las Viñas, Paíces, and Alain de France.

Bunches of grapes on the street market

In terms of neighborhoods to visit, there are plenty of choices in Mendoza. The Mendoza City Center is bursting with action, as can be seen in the many plazas and tourist attractions.

Also, there are plenty of nightlife and dining options here. Chacras de Coria is not necessarily part of the city but rather a small town in the surrounding area.

Here, there are plenty of open spaces for recreation, small wineries, and plenty of family-owned restaurants.

Godoy Cruz is another wonderful place for wine lovers, and is known as being a quiet, laid-back part of town with plenty of history and character.

MENDOZA ARGENTINA - Scene of Plaza Espana (Spain Square) with locals and visitors in Mendoza Argentina

Where to eat in Mendoza

Really, you can’t go wrong with the dining options in Mendoza. Whether scouting out the street food stands at the markets or taking a gamble on a hole-in-the-wall restaurant, you’re going to love all of the food you taste.

One of the local favorites in the city is Fuente y Fonda, which serves large entrees for two such as milanesa (an Argentine classic—breaded steak baked and topped with cheese, tomatoes, and ham), fresh pasta, and steak. And, of course, the wine menu is exquisite.

Tupungato Divino is a small hotel with a restaurant and garden that offer views of the Andes Mountains.

Diners can choose from over 150 local wines, and can choose from a variety of steaks cute and cooked to order.

One of the best places for steak can be found in the Park Hyatt Mendoza at Bistro M .

If you want to eat small-plates and delicious appetizers, don’t forget to check out Anna Bistro and Mi Tierra; both restaurants off smaller dining options as well as carefully selected wine pairings.

Regardless of where and what you choose to eat, you have to spend some time at restaurants that offer authentic Argentine cuisine.

El Palenque serves amazing food in an old school tavern. At Mercado Central, find many Argentine cheap eats such as pizza, empanadas, jamón sandwiches, tacos, and fresh fruits.

MENDOZA, ARGENTINA - Traditional asado - barbecue of a lamb. Plaza Independecia square in Mendoza, Argentina.

Tours and Day Trips in Mendoza

Booking a tour and/or day trip in Mendoza is something that you won’t regret. Take a day trip to the Andes and visit some of the most famous mountain ranges.

For just $40, an air-conditioned guided coach tour will show you Aconcagua (the highest mountain in the Americas), Las Cuevas, Poterillos, and Puente del Inca.

Other mountain trips highlight popular areas such as the Cristo Redentor monument, the Upsallata settlement, the Potrerillos Dam, and the Silver Cord mountain range.

Aconcagua, the highest mountain in the Americas at 6.960 mts., located in the Andes mountain range in Mendoza, Argentina.

In terms of wine tours and tastings, I would recommend the Maipú wine tasting . Here, visitors can experience three world renown wineries while enjoying a 3-course lunch.

Also, transportation is super easy—just hop on the light rail in the city center, and you’ll arrive at your destination 45 minutes later.

At the scenic Agrelo and Perdriel vineyards of Mendoza’s Lujan de Cuyo valley, guests can enjoy a boutique experienced paired with a farm-to-table lunch.

Early morning in the late autumn: Volcano Aconcagua Cordillera and Vineyard. Andes mountain range in the Argentine province of Mendoza

However, you can’t forget about the spas! Mendoza is home to a variety of hot springs and luxurious spas.

Take some time to relax at Termas de Cachueta . This full-day trip has everything to offer—indoor and outdoor pools, mud treatments, whirlpools, thermal baths, saunas, massages, lunch buffet, and wine.

For those looking to learn more about what the city has to offer, take a city tour with Cerro de la Gloria . A lot will be covered in just half a day, including visits to downtown, Alameda, the Civic Center, General San Martin Parl, Mundialista Stadium, and Frank Romero Day Amphitheater.

Try something new with the Viejo Almacen Tango Show. Experience a live tango show while dining on classic Argentine cuisine.

Long shot of the monument on top of the hill Cerro de la Gloria in Mendoza Argentina South America

If wanting to see a different city during your stay in Mendoza, I would recommend visiting San Martín.

San Martín is the third largest metropolitan area in the Province and offers a variety of activities to indulge in including wine tasting, museums, and outdoor experiences as week.

CORDOBA ARGENTINA - General Jose de San Martin monument on Plaza San Martin square in Cordoba Argentina. Jose de San Martin is a hero of the Argentine War of Independence.

Finally, if you find yourself visiting Mendoza during the winter, spending time in the mountains skiing or snowboarding is a great day-trip to make. Las Leñas is a very popular resort that offers 13 lift transports and over 32 miles of slopes.

Additionally, there is an awesome winter sports area designated in the middle of the mountain region. Los Penitentes, Vallecitos, and Los Puquios are other great options as well. However, they are much smaller.

Regardless, any of the resorts are great options for beginner, intermediate, and advanced skiiers alike.

Los Penitentes is a ski resort near Mendoza in Argentina

What do I do now??

Book! Your! Tickets!!!

Mendoza is an excellent destination for solo travelers, young couples, friend groups, and families. Everything that you could possibly want, or need, can be found within La Ciudad de Mendoza.

The city is easily accessible—booking a flight or finding a convenient bus will be no problem at all. In terms of accommodation, the options are plentiful.

But, most importantly, there is an incredible variety of activates to choose from.

Get lost in the mountains. Go horseback riding for the day. Tour one of the thousands of wineries. Choose from a multitude of day trips and city tours.

Stroll through one of the many outdoor, artisanal markets. The options are endless! And, of course, you won’t starve.

Diners can choose from both local and internationally inspired restaurants that are bound to satisfy all of your cravings.

Regardless of what you want to do or what you want to see, La Ciudad de Mendoza will not disappoint.

People from all over the world have fallen in love with the city’s diverse landscape and rich cuisine. Don’t sleep on the opportunity of a lifetime!

Canyon of the Atuel River in the province of Mendoza. Huge lake surrounded by mountains.

Recommended tours in Mendoza

  • Mendoza Wine Tour with Lunch
  • Private Tour: Mendoza Wine with Driver and Guide
  • The Real Gaucho Day Trip from Mendoza – Don Daniel Ranch
  • Mendoza Horseback Riding Tour with Traditional Argentine Asado
  • Full-Day Aconcagua Experience
  • Andes High Mountain full day Tour
  • City Tour of Mendoza with Cerro de la Gloria
  • Zipline Adventure from Mendoza in Potrerillos Valley
  • Hidden Wineries of Uco Valley – Gourmet Lunch
  • 4×4 Photo Safari In The Andes – Villavicencio
  • Maipú Wine-Tasting Tour from Mendoza Including Trapiche Winery
  • Spa Day at Termas de Cacheuta with Transport from Mendoza

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The Ultimate Travel guide to Mendoza

Found & Travel Expert

Sam, a globally seasoned traveler with a footprint across four continents and over 49 countries, is a recognized authority in travel planning. Her passion for exploration has positioned her as a leading voice in the travel community.

Travelling King offering readers insider tips and expert knowledge. Today, it's a go-to resource for thousands, providing tailor-made itineraries, tour and hotel guides, ensuring travelers enjoy seamless, memorable trips.

Sam's engaging perspective on global exploration keeps her at the forefront of travel enthusiasm. While she cherishes her adventures, returning to Adelaide and her beloved dog Odin remains a special joy.

Sam's expertise includes: - Luxury Travel: Providing insights into upscale travel experiences. - Fast Travel: Offering strategies for maximizing visits to multiple destinations in limited time. - Hotels and Destination Guides: Crafting comprehensive guides for accommodations and attractions.

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 mendoza hiking and trekking tours from one to seven days, including the national and provincial parks where you will enjoy the wilderness and the beauty of the andes mountains..

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Argentina's Mendoza Multi-Adventure Tour

Small Group Adventures for:

Couples, Friends & Solos Adults 18+ Women's Adventures Women 18+ Families with Young Adults 20s & Beyond Best for ages 20+ (min. age 18) Families with Older Teens & 20s Best for ages 17-23 (min. age 14) Families with Teens & Kids Best for ages 9-17 (min. age 4)

From $5,999 - $6,899 /person

Activity Levels 2-4

We categorize our trips based on a range of activity levels from leisurely (1) to avid (5) with plenty of options in between.

Premiere Hotels

Premiere Hotels - From lavish luxury to on-trend boutique, offering experiences as unique as the regions we explore.

Casual Plus Hotels - A step above Casual but not quite Premiere.

Casual Hotels - Known for their character, charm and proximity to outdoor adventures and Backroads activities.

Small Luxury Ships - Unpack once and cover more distance on an intimate ship with spacious staterooms and superb amenities.

2024 : Mar-May, Oct-Dec 2025 : Mar-May, Oct-Dec 2026 : Mar-May

Towering Andes & Wine Country Escapes

Taste full-bodied local Malbecs straight out of award-winning bodegas. Bike along vineyards nestled beneath the Andes’ soaring canyons. Follow alpine trails between snowy peaks. Discover the flavors of a vibrant young gastronomy scene. Hike, pedal and sip your way through Mendoza, the heart of Argentina’s wine country.

  • Discover Mendoza—renowned for its wine and home to Argentina’s best grapes thanks to the region’s sunlight, good soil and broad temperatures
  • Learn about the wine-making process, sample the region’s signature blends and even craft your own
  • Explore the majestic foothills of the Andes, ascend on foot to delicate alpine wetlands and raft the rushing Mendoza River
  • Experience Argentina’s arts and culture as you dance, sip and savor the local cuisine  

Argentina Mendoza Multi-Adventure Tour map

Start/End Mendoza

Do not book flights until your trip details are confirmed.

We recommend flying into and out of Mendoza's El Plumerillo International Airport (MDZ).

Though there are flight plans from the United States to Mendoza connecting via various Latin American hubs, you may also consider buying a round-trip ticket to and from Buenos Aires and a separate ticket to and from Mendoza, particularly if you plan to extend your trip in other areas of Argentina.

Please note that trip start and end locations are subject to change and can vary by departure. A Travel Planner, comnplete with trip details specific to your chosen date, will be sent to you at time of booking or soon after and will be viewable in your Backroads account.

* Start/End locations may vary. Do not book flights until your trip details are confirmed.

backpackers travel and adventure mendoza

Arrive in cosmopolitan Mendoza • Bike through the vineyards of the Uco Valley wine region beneath the dramatic peak of the Tupungato Volcano • Spend a sunny day biking the mountainous roads of a popular local historic loop • Stop to sip celebrated local wines • Relax at our luxurious hotel, perhaps opting for a spa treatment.

backpackers travel and adventure mendoza

Located at the edge of the Andes, the Vines' beautiful vineyard, acclaimed restaurant and stunning rooms offer up a taste of Argentinian culture that will both rejuvenate and excite. (pool, spa)

backpackers travel and adventure mendoza

Hike through the grassy hills of the Andes as majestic condors sail overhead • Immerse yourself in gaucho culture and savor tender grilled beef at a traditional asado • Sample Argentina’s famed yerba maté tea • Hike through the Cordón del Plata mountain range and wetlands • Keep an eye out for herds of llama-like guanaco roaming the area • At the end of the day, relish a delightful dinner.

backpackers travel and adventure mendoza

Bike through the Canyon of Cacheuta and past Potrerillos Lake, where blue waters stand in stark contrast to the rugged mountains • Spend the afternoon on a guided tour and wine tasting at an elegant vineyard • Get your adrenaline pumping as you raft the rushing Mendoza River • Learn how to dance the once forbidden tango • Celebrate the end of your trip with a vineyard walk, gourmet dinner and wine reception • Close out this unforgettable week with a morning ride through the nearby vineyards and quaint towns.

backpackers travel and adventure mendoza

Luxury villas reside at the foot of the Andes between abundant greenery and sprawling vineyards. Each mini oasis comes with a pool, fireplace and outdoor patio, perfect for sitting by the fire and watching the stars. A Relais & Châteaux member. (pool, spa)

Our trips range in activity levels from leisurely (1) to avid (5) with plenty of options in between. Several routes are offered each day so you can choose your perfect amount of activity. Learn more

*Includes shuttle

  • Activity Level

What's Included

  • All breakfasts, 6 lunches, 6 dinners
  • Snacks and beverages between meals
  • Additional guides and experts from the region on many trips
  • Van shuttles to support a variety of route options
  • Comprehensive Travel Planner with detailed pre-trip information
  • Private guided tours at museums, historic sites, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the Travel Planner
  • All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
  • Special events, including wine tastings and other select attractions as mentioned in the Travel Planner
  • On biking and multi-adventure trips, use of fully equipped Backroads titanium bike plus helmet and accessories
  • Trailercycles, carriers, and kid-sized helmets for Family Trips
  • Equipment and experienced guides for kayaking, rafting, snorkeling, sailing and canoeing as described
  • Park and other entry fees
  • Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the Travel Planner
  • Select coach transfers
  • Baggage transfers and porterage

Not Included: Leader gratuities, transportation to and from your Backroads trip start & end locations, and on-your-own meals & activities.

Straight Talk

We want to make sure you're on the trip that's right for you. Every Backroads trip is unique and this one is no exception.

Our hikes in the rugged Andes of Mendoza Province follow remote paths many of which do not intersect with roads. Vehicles will get us to and from the trailheads, but the nature of these trails is such that we won't see our vehicles along the route. Ample trail support in the form of water, snacks, and encouragement is provided by your Backroads leaders and local guides.

Want more information? Download a detailed itinerary.

Itineraries include detailed descriptions of each day, tips on travel arrangements, regional highlights and more. It's the perfect tool to help you choose!

World-Class Hotels

Our hand-selected Premiere hotels offer exceptional hospitality and experiences as special as the regions we explore.

Hotels may vary based on departure. Any variations will be displayed when selecting a departure under Dates & Prices.

Premiere Hotel

* Casual Hotel

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Ready to Ride

On this trip where Backroads custom titanium bikes are not available, we offer local bikes that are well suited for the terrain on our routes.

Backroads Cuba Bike - Touring with Drop Handlebars

Included in your trip price

Backroads Touring Bike

  • Suited for a wide range of cyclists
  • Comfortable ergonomic seat
  • Long wheel base adds to the bike's control and stability
  • Upright handlebars only

Backroads Touring Bike Sizing & Geometry

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Dates & Prices

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If you require more than 4 rooms or more than 2 beds per room please contact us.

If you require more than 4 rooms or more than 2 beds per room please contact us .

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Backroads provides flexible booking policies so that you can plan your vacation with complete peace of mind.

Select from our scheduled departure dates

Trip details may vary based on departure date.

  • 4/21-27 2024
  • 5/19-25 2024
  • 10/27-11/2 2024
  • 11/24-30 2024
  • 12/16-22 2024
  • 12/26-1/1 2024
  • 3/9-15 2025
  • 3/23-29 2025
  • 4/6-12 2025
  • 4/20-26 2025
  • 5/11-17 2025
  • 5/18-24 2025
  • 10/12-18 2025
  • 10/26-11/1 2025
  • 11/23-29 2025
  • 12/15-21 2025
  • 12/31-1/6 2025
  • 3/8-14 2026
  • 4/5-11 2026
  • 4/19-25 2026
  • 5/17-23 2026

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Itineraries include detailed descriptions of each day, tips on pre- and post-trip travel arrangements, regional highlights and more. It's the perfect tool to help you choose!

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We're always seeking opportunities to enhance our itineraries; published trip details including routes and activities, as well as trips start and end locations, are subject to change and can vary by departure. Please do not use this itinerary to schedule your flights or any other travel. A Travel Planner, complete with the trip details specific to your chosen date, will be sent to you at the time of booking or soon after.

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Mendoza Province

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The southern half of El Nuevo Cuyo is taken up by Mendoza Province. Within its borders, you find dramatic mountain landscapes, where you can try all sorts of adventure pursuits, from mountain climbing to white-water rafting. Its lively capital, Mendoza, supplies much-wanted creature comforts after treks, climbs into the Andes or a day of white-water rafting. While Mendoza Province shares many things with San Juan and La Rioja – bleak wildernesses backed by snow-peaked mountains, remarkably varied flora and fauna, an incredibly sunny climate prone to sudden temperature changes, and pockets of rich farmland mainly used to produce beefy red wines – it differs in the way it exploits them. Mendoza leads the way in tourism just as it does in the wine industry, combining professionalism with a taste for the avant-garde. The two industries come together for Mendoza’s nationally famous Fiesta de la Vendimia, or Wine Harvest Festival, in early March, a slightly kitsch but exuberant bacchanal at which a carnival queen is elected from candidates representing every town in the province.

Mendoza city

Where to stay in mendoza, eating in mendoza, drinking and nightlife in mendoza, tours in mendoza, alta montaña, south of mendoza.

Mendoza Province can be divided into three sections, each with its own base. The north, around the capital, has the country’s biggest concentration of vineyards and top-class wineries, clustered around Maipú, Luján de Cuyo and the gorgeous Valle de Uco, while the scenic Alta Montaña route races up in a westerly direction towards the high Chilean border, passing the mighty Cerro Aconcagua, a popular climbing destination for devoted mountaineers. Not far to the southwest are the much more challenging Cerro Tupungato (6570m) and the remote Laguna Diamante, a choppy altiplanic lagoon in the shadow of the perfectly shaped Volcán Maipo, which can only be visited from December to March. Central Mendoza is focused on the laidback town of San Rafael, where you can taste more wine, and from where several tour operators offer white-water rafting trips along the nearby Cañón del Atuel, or rivers like the Sosneado and Diamante. If you’ve always wanted to ski or snowboard in July, try the winter sports resort at Las Leñas, where you’ll be sharing pistes with Argentina’s jet-set. The third, least-visited section of the province wraps around the southern outpost of Malargüe, a final-frontier kind of place promoting itself as a centre for nature, scientific discovery and adventure. Within easy reach are the Laguna de Llancanelo, home to an enormous community of flamingoes (it can become dried out some years, though, so check with operators on its condition before visiting), the charcoal-grey and rust-red lava deserts of La Payunia and the karstic caves of Caverna de las Brujas.

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Argentina, created by local experts

The Great Lakes and Glaciers of Argentina

10 days  / from 2650 USD

The Great Lakes and Glaciers of Argentina

Experience the great outdoors, Argentina-style! Marvel at jaw-droppingly beautiful Patagonian landscapes, walk the shores of deep-blue lakes guarded by snow-capped mountains at Bariloche, explore the stunning Perito Moreno Glacier – experience all of this, and much more, with this unique trip!

From Chile to Argentina, across the Andean Lakes

13 days  / from 3180 USD

From Chile to Argentina, across the Andean Lakes

Travel from Chile to Argentina across the stunning Andean Lakes, also known as the Lakes District. Beginning in Santiago, you will travel to Puerto Varas, in Chile, and then across the lakes to Bariloche, Argentina, taking in the stunning mountain scenery, before ending your trip in Buenos Aires.

An adventure across three countries: Brazil, Argentina & Uruguay

14 days  / from 1933 USD

An adventure across three countries: Brazil, Argentina & Uruguay

A trip filled with history, culture and nature spread out over three beautiful and unique countries, Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay. Visit some of the most stunning sites, like the Sugar Loaf Mountain, Iguazu Falls and UNESCO World Heritage site Colonia del Sacramento, during this 14-day trip.

Argentinean Patagonia: from the Coast to the Andes

13 days  / from 2581 USD

Argentinean Patagonia: from the Coast to the Andes

Explore the region's most fascinating corners: sea life in Puerto Madryn awaits before you head to the most southern city in the world: Ushuaia. Discover Tierra del Fuego before heading out to El Calafate and Bariloche, really soaking in the Argentinean vibes.

Unforgettable Argentina

16 days  / from 3585 USD

Unforgettable Argentina

Argentina has a lot to offer travellers, in this itinerary you will explore the highlights in just two weeks. From busy Buenos Aires you will fly to Iguazu to marvel at the majestic waterfalls before heading south to Puerto Madryn, Ushuaia and El Calafate. Unforgettable Argentina awaits!

Magical Patagonia and Cultural Buenos Aires

Magical Patagonia and Cultural Buenos Aires

Combine exploring the contemporary city of Buenos Aires, with all its luxuries and grand, historical buildings, together with the wild, rugged land of Patagonia. Take in the culture and observe the landscape and wildlife to gain a complete picture of the true Argentina.

Andean Triangle - Chile, Bolivia and Argentina

16 days  / from 5050 USD

Andean Triangle - Chile, Bolivia and Argentina

Start your South American adventure in Santiago de Chile before exploring the wonders of the Atacama desert. A short hop across the border and you'll find yourself in the middle of the Bolivian salt flat. Afterwards, you'll continue to Argentina with Salta and Buenos Aires.

Argentina: Tango and Glaciers

13 days  / from 2500 USD

Argentina: Tango and Glaciers

Visit the grand, edgy and famously seductive Argentine capital of Buenos Aires for tango and culture; then head northeast to see the thundering Iguazú Falls. Finally, it’s off to the end of the Americas to deepest Patagonia for adventure, glaciers and limitless horizons.

Wild Patagonia

13 days  / from 6800 USD

Wild Patagonia

Argentina has lots to offer its visitors: a glacier the size of a city, sizzling tango, fashionable barrios, artisan towns, ranches with horses and gauchos and wild untamed natural beauty. From Buenos Aires to Patagonia, you’ll get to see it all in this adventure-laden vacation.

Tango & Wines in Argentina

7 days  / from 1400 USD

Tango & Wines in Argentina

Argentina is known for its dances and gastronomy scene, both to be discovered on this trip. Explore Buenos Aires on your own and with a guide, including its famous nightlife before heading to the vineyards of Mendoza, one of the most developed wine regions in the country.

Multi-country adventures from salt flats to the Andes

14 days  / from 2271 USD

Multi-country adventures from salt flats to the Andes

South America is full of wonders and this trip packs Argentina, Chile and Bolivia into 2 weeks. Bustling Buenos Aires, beautiful valleys around Salta, the surreal looking surroundings of San Pedro de Atacama, the salt flat of Uyuni as well as Lake Titicaca are all part of this itinerary.

South American Wines Trail

10 days  / from 2120 USD

South American Wines Trail

All wine lovers unite! Start your tour in Buenos Aires before heading to the wine region of Mendoza. Sample some of Argentina's finest wines and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Afterwards, continue to Santiago de Chile with a day trip to Valparaiso.

Argentina and Chile: Dazzling Cities and Magical Landscapes

13 days  / from 2756 USD

Argentina and Chile: Dazzling Cities and Magical Landscapes

Santiago is an emerging city, whilst Buenos Aires has long been a busy metropolis. Both offer historical buildings to admire, a local gastronomy scene to savour and sensuous dances to learn. Not to mention the mountainous terrain and desert landscapes outside the cities waiting to be explored.

Southern Argentina & Antarctica

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Southern Argentina & Antarctica

Explore the Antarctica on an intimate cruise from Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world. Start in Buenos Aires before spending a few nights in El Calafate and Ushuaia to then board your cruise. 4 nights in the Antarctic are the highlight of your trip before heading to Chile's capital Santiago.

A city escape to Buenos Aires

4 days  / from 420 USD

A city escape to Buenos Aires

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Buenos Aires on this 4-day tour premium tour. Stay at one of the most exclusive hotels and discover Argentina's capital on bike during the day and in style at a Tango show at night.

Argentina and Chile - Wine Country Explored

Argentina and Chile - Wine Country Explored

Get a taste of the wines of Argentina and Chile on this tour of the country's best bodegas. Sway to the rhythm of tango in Buenos Aires before you head to high altitude towns and absorb stunning mountain scenery. Then it's across the border into Chile to sample Santiago's historic delights.

Self Drive on the Atlantic Patagonia Blue Route

14 days  / from 3075 USD

Self Drive on the Atlantic Patagonia Blue Route

Travel across wild Patagonia in your own rental car. Full autonomy and freedom means being able to truly go off the beaten track. You'll come across plenty of wildlife like whales and penguins, as well as following Darwin's footsteps across the steppe.

Argentina's Northern Highlights

13 days  / from 2600 USD

Argentina's Northern Highlights

Your journey begins in Bueno’s Aires, the Argentine capital and the home of tango, colonial buildings and cobbled streets. Explore museums, churches, and stunning mountain valleys; be awestruck by the roar of the Iguazú Falls; then explore the wineries of the Central Valley.

From the city to the jungle

From the city to the jungle

Visit two of the most fascinating parts of Argentina: First, the electrifying capital of Buenos Aires in all of its glory before heading out to Puerto Iguazu to discover the majestic Iguazu waterfalls.

Luxury Holidays in South America

14 days  / from 7500 USD

Luxury Holidays in South America

Experience the best of Argentina and Brazil in luxury. From vibrant Buenos Aires to breathtaking Argentinian Falls, stunning Bariloche, and untamed Patagonia. Conclude in Rio de Janeiro's iconic beaches before immersing in cosmopolitan Sao Paulo.

Buenos Aires, Iguazu Falls & Wine Country

9 days  / from 3300 USD

Buenos Aires, Iguazu Falls & Wine Country

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Argentina's diverse landscapes and vibrant cities. Explore the cosmopolitan charm of Buenos Aires, marvel at the awe-inspiring natural wonder of Puerto Iguazú's majestic waterfalls, and indulge in the renowned wines of Mendoza's picturesque vineyards.

South Argentina and the Ends of the Earth

10 days  / from 2600 USD

South Argentina and the Ends of the Earth

This trip goes to the southernmost point of Argentina and to the ends of the earth. Begin in Buenos Aires, then travel south to El Calafate and explore the stunning Perito Moreno Glacier, before continuing to the southernmost city on earth, Ushuaia, and the Tierra del Fuego National Park.

Classic Antarctica from Chile

11 days  / from 15375 USD

Classic Antarctica from Chile

Start and end your trip in Chile and discover the Antarctica on an intimate, Boutique-style expedition boat. Cruise the Drake Passage, visit Cape Horn and fly back to Punta Arenas before returning to the capital Santiago.

Bariloche & Buenos Aires

11 days  / from 3600 USD

Bariloche & Buenos Aires

Explore the stunning landscapes of Bariloche and immerse yourself in nature's wonders. Then, soak up the vibrant energy of Buenos Aires, with its captivating culture, history, and lively streets. A journey of breathtaking beauty and cultural immersion awaits.

Islands & Waterfalls: Ihla Grande and Iguazu

12 days  / from 2500 USD

Islands & Waterfalls: Ihla Grande and Iguazu

A mesmerizing journey through Brazil and Argentina, starting with the vibrant energy of Rio de Janeiro. Explore the pristine paradise of Ilha Grande, then step back in time in the colonial gem of Paraty. Finally, marvel at the awe-inspiring Iguazu Falls.

Mendoza is a mostly low-rise city, spread across the wide valley of the Río Mendoza, over 1000km west of Buenos Aires and less than 100km east of the Andean cordillera – whose perennially snowcapped peaks are clearly visible from downtown. Its airy microcentro is less compact than that of most comparable cities, partly because the streets, squares and avenues were deliberately made wide when the city was rebuilt in the late nineteenth century, following a major earthquake. Every street is lined by bushy sycamore and plane trees – providing vital shade in the scorching summer, they are watered by over 500km of acequias, or irrigation ditches, which form a natural, outdoor air-cooling system. Watch out when you cross the city’s streets, as the narrow gutters are up to a metre deep and often full of gushing water, especially in the spring when the upland snows melt.

The centre of the urban layout is the vast Plaza Independencia, and its four orbital squares, plazas Chile, San Martín, España and Italia, each with its own distinctive character. The Museo del Pasado Cuyano offers an insight into late-nineteenth-century life for the city’s richer families, while the Museo de Ciencias Naturales y Antropológicas is a natural history museum. The latter sits in the handsome Parque General San Martín, which commands views of the city and its surroundings. The park is also the venue for the city’s major annual event, the Fiesta de la Vendimia, held every March. The ruins of colonial Mendoza’s nucleus have been preserved as the Área Fundacional, where there’s another small museum. The most impressive sight is the historic Bodega Escorihuela, a beautiful winery in a southern suburb.

Most people visit Mendoza principally to do a wine-tasting tour at the many bodegas in or near the city. Within easy reach to the south of the city are two small satellite towns, Luján de Cuyo and Maipú, where, in addition to the majority of the region’s wineries, you’ll find a couple more interesting museums, one displaying the paintings of Fernando Fader – a kind of Argentine Van Gogh – and the other focusing on the wine industry. The city also acts as a base for some of the world’s most thrilling mountain-climbing opportunities.

Argentine wine

Argentina is now the world’s fifth-largest wine producer (after Italy, France, Spain and the US), with three-quarters of the country’s total production coming from Mendoza Province, focused on Maipú and Luján de Cuyo in the south of the city. San Rafael, La Rioja and San Juan are also major wine-growing centres.

Many wine experts would agree that Argentina’s vintages are improving rapidly as a result of both a domestic market that’s fast becoming more discerning and the lure of exports. Table wines still dominate, often sold at the budget end of the market in huge, refillable flagons called damajuanas , and sometimes marketed under usurped names such as borgoña, or burgundy, and chablis. Younger Argentines often only drink wine on special occasions, plumping for lighter New Wave wines such as Chandón’s Nuevo Mundo. Many upmarket restaurants offer extensive wine lists including older vintages – but beware of exorbitant corkage charges. Commonly found bodega names to look for include Chandón, Graffigna, Navarro Correas, Salentein, Finca Flichmann and Weinert.

Although the most attractive wineries to visit are the old-fashioned ones, with musty cellars crammed with oak barrels, some of the finest vintages are now produced by growers using the latest equipment, including storage tanks lined with epoxy resin and computerized temperature controls. They tend to concentrate on making varietal wines, the main grape varieties being riesling, chenin blanc and chardonnay, for whites, and pinot noir, cabernet sauvignon and malbec, for reds – the reds tend to be better than whites. Malbec is often regarded as the Argentine grape par excellence , giving rich fruity wines, with overtones of blackcurrant and prune that are the perfect partner for a juicy steak. The latest trend is for a balanced combination of two grapes: for example, mixing malbec for its fruitiness and cabernet for its body, while toning down the sometimes excessive oakiness that used to characterize Argentine wines. Growers have also been experimenting with varieties such as tempranillo, san gervase, gewürztraminer, syrah and merlot, and very convincing sparkling wines are being made locally by the méthode champenoise, including those produced by Chandón and Mumm, the French champagne-makers.

Bodegas in and around Mendoza

There are plenty of wineries in the Mendoza area that are open to visitors. The easiest way to visit bodegas is on a tour organized by an agency in Mendoza. A typical half-day trip visits two or three bodegas, while a full day visits five or six and includes lunch; full-day trips are better value. Wine enthusiasts willing to splurge should contact Trout and Wine or Ampora, which does a range of small-group “premium” tours led by English-speaking guides; lunch is included.

Alternatively, you can rent a car and drive yourself or hire a driver; using public transport only works if you’re planning on seeing a very limited number of bodegas. Another option is to rent a bike, but always double-check the bike, take an emergency number in case of punctures, and ask which routes are the safest, as it’s no rural idyll – some busy roads have bike lanes, but on others you are exposed to industrial traffic. In Maipú and a backpacker favourite, try the friendly Mr Hugo Bikes, at Urquiza 2288, or a little further down the road Maipú Bikes , at Urquiza 2499.

If you’re going under your own steam, make sure you call ahead to check times, to book a visit and to ask for an English-speaking guide, if necessary. The bodegas are concentrated in Maipú and in Luján de Cuyo, plus the striking (and the most rural) wine region; Valle de Uco, which is made up of the districts of Tunuyán, Tupungato and San Carlos.

Most bodegas charge for tours (which include tastings), and you’re pointedly steered to a sales area at the end (cash only; surcharge for the best tipples). Try and see different kinds of wineries, ranging from the old-fashioned, traditional bodegas to the highly mechanized, ultramodern producers; at the former you’re more likely to receive personal attention. Best of all is staying the night at one of the several wineries offering accommodation – some of it highly luxurious.

Fiesta de la Vendimia

Mendoza’s main festival is the giant Fiesta de la Vendimia, or Wine Harvest Festival, which reaches its climax during the first weekend of March every year. Wine takes over the city and the tourist trade shifts into high gear. On the Sunday before the carnival proper (the last Sun in Feb), the Bendición de los Frutos, or Blessing of the Grapes, takes place, in a ceremony involving the bishop of Mendoza. During the week leading up to the grand finale, events range from folklore concerts in the centro cívico to Italian food and entertainment in the Plaza Italia. On Friday evening is the Vía Blanca, a parade of illuminated floats through the central streets, while on Saturday it’s the Carrusel, when a carnival parade winds along the same route, each department in the province sending a float from which a previously elected beauty queen and her entourage of runners-up fling local produce, ranging from grapes and flowers to watermelons and packets of pasta, into the cheering crowds lining the road. On Saturday evening, the Acto Central is held in an amphitheatre in the Parque San Martín; it’s a gala performance of song, dance and general kitsch-o-rama , hosted by local TV celebs, eventually leading up to a drawn-out vote – by political leaders representing each department in the province – to elect the queen of the festival. The same show is re-run, minus the election, and therefore less tedium, on Sunday evening. The spectacle costs millions of pesos and is a huge investment by the local wine-growers, but as it’s attended by some 25,000 people it seems to be financially viable. The organizers boast that it’s the biggest such festival in South America and one of the most lavish wine-related celebrations in the world. For more information contact the city’s tourist office.

Mendoza has plenty of places to stay, with more than enough beds for its needs, except during the Fiesta de la Vendimia in late February/early March. It has several luxurious hotels, including branches of top-class international chains, as well as plenty of youth hostels, plus a fair number of B&Bs. In the middle range are countless nondescript but decent smaller hotels. At the higher end, particularly interesting options are bodega hotels or posadas, many of which are in the swish suburbs of Chacras de Coria and the district of Maipú. The quiet, suburban location of these bodega hotels does mean that unless you have your own car you may be more or less limited to the delights the bodega has to offer. Always book bodega accommodation ahead, and let your hosts know if you don’t have your own transport, as they will usually pick you up from Mendoza city or airport. If you haven’t got anything booked, the best street to head for is Arístides Villanueva (usually referred to as Arístides), three blocks south and four blocks west of the Plaza Independencia – it’s packed with hostels. For more upmarket options head to the area around Plaza Italia and Plaza Independencía.

Mendoza is the prosperous capital of Argentina’s western region, and the produce grown in the nearby oases is tiptop; as a result, the city’s many, varied and often highly sophisticated restaurants are usually full, and serve some of the best food and drink in the country thanks to the nearby vineyards, fertile valley produce and relative proximity to the fishing ports of Chile.

Mendoza’s bars are lively and it has a well-developed café-terrace culture, with Avenida Arístides Villanueva, to the west of the centre, a hotspot. Clubs are vibrant and mostly concentrated in outlying places such as El Challao, to the northwest, and Godoy Cruz and fashionable Chacras de Coria to the south.

Popular tours include ones to wine bodegas, Alta Montaña and Villavicencio. Mountain-bike tours and horse riding in the foothills and white-water rafting on the Río Mendoza are also possible. Many operators also offer longer trips to La Payunia, Cañón del Atuel, Talampaya and Ischigualasto, but Malargüe, San Rafael, San Agustín de Valle Fértil and Villa Unión are much closer bases for these.

  • Argentina Rafting Amigorena This outfit is the regional expert at rafting, but also offers a wide range of adventure activities such as abseiling, canopy, parachute jumping and, for the less ambitious, horseriding.
  • Aymará Offers horse rides through upland terrain, transfers and city tours.
  • Backpackers Travel & Adventure Aimed at the younger, budget market, this tour agency offers trekking and excursions to Alta Montaña.
  • El Cristo Espejo A highly professional team, El Cristo puts together excursions as far away as Malargüe, including interesting bodega tours.
  • Mendoza Viajes Sarmiento This well-established agency offers very reasonably priced wine tours throughout the province, as well as trips to Cañon del Atuel in San Rafael.
  • Sepean Primitivo de la Reta A general tour and travel agency, offering hotel packages in the region and across the border in Chile.
  • Trout and Wine Run by a wine-loving Irishman, and specializing in upmarket wine tours. Also offers fly- fishing tours and horseriding through vineyards.

The Andean cordillera, including some of the world’s tallest mountains, loom a short distance west of Mendoza, and its snow-tipped peaks are visible from the city centre almost all year round, beyond the picturesque vineyards and fruit orchards. Even if you’ve come to the region for the wine, you’ll want to head up into the hills before long: the scenery is fabulous, and skiing, trekking and highland walks are all possible, or you can simply enjoy the views on an organized excursion.

The so-called Alta Montaña Route – the RN-7 – is also the international highway to Santiago de Chile, via the upmarket Chilean ski resort of Portillo, and one of the major border crossings between the two countries, blocked by snow only on rare occasions in July and August. If you’re in a hurry to get to or from Santiago , try to travel by day, to see the stunning scenery in the area. However, if you’ve more time to explore, possible stop-offs along the RN-7 include the pretty village of Potrerillos and Vallecitos, a tiny ski resort that caters for a younger crowd than exclusive Las Leñas. As the road climbs further up into the mountains it passes another village, Uspallata, and then a variety of colourful rock formations – look for the pinnacle-like Los Penitentes. Closer to the border, Puente del Inca is a popular place to pause, both for its sulphurous thermal spring and its location – near the trailhead, base camp and muleteer-post for those brave enough to contemplate the ascent of mighty Aconcagua, the continent’s tallest peak, just to the north. The last settlement before you travel through a tunnel under the Andes and into Chile is Las Cuevas, from where an old mountain pass can be ascended, weather permitting, to see the Cristo Redentor, a huge statue of Christ, erected as a sign of peace between the old rivals, and for the fantastic mountain views.

At 6962m – or 6959m according to some maps – Cerro Aconcagua is the highest peak in both the western and southern hemispheres, or outside the Himalayas. Its glacier-garlanded summit dominates the Parque Provincial Aconcagua, even though it is encircled by several other mountains that exceed 5000m: cerros Almacenes, Catedral, Cuerno, Cúpula, Ameghino, Güssfeldt, Dedos, México, Mirador, Fitzgerald, La Mano, Santa María and Tolosa, some of which are easier to climb than others, and many of which obscure views of the great summit from most points around. The five glaciers that hang around its faces like icy veils are Horcones Superior, Horcones Inferior, Güssfeldt, Las Vacas and Los Polacos.

Although climbing Aconcagua is technically less demanding than climbing many lower-altitude peaks, it is still a challenge to be taken seriously. Fitness, patience and acclimatization are key, and, unless you’re fairly experienced at high-altitude treks, you shouldn’t even consider going up; despite what the agencies may tell you, both independent climbers and people climbing as part of organized treks often end up turning back.

The highlight of any trip to southernmost Mendoza Province, yet overlooked by most visitors because of its relative inaccessibility, La Payunia, protected by the Reserva Provincial La Payunia, is a fabulously wild area of staggering beauty, sometimes referred to as the Patagonia Mendocina. Dominated by Volcán Payún Matru (3690m), and its slightly lower inactive neighbour Volcán Payún Liso, it is utterly unspoilt apart from some remnants of old fluorite and manganese mines plus some petrol-drilling derricks, whose nodding-head pump-structures are locally nicknamed “guanacos”, after the member of the llama family they vaguely resemble in shape. Occasionally, you will spot real guanacos, sometimes in large flocks, standing out against the black volcanic backdrop of the so-called Pampa Negra. This huge expanse of lava in the middle of the reserve was caused by relatively recent volcanic eruptions, dating back hundreds or thousands of years rather than millions, as is the case of most such phenomena in the region. “Fresh” trails of lava debris can be seen at various points throughout the park, and enormous boulders of igneous rock are scattered over these dark plains, also ejected during the violent volcanic activity. The only vegetation is flaxen grass, whose golden colour stands out against the blackened hillsides. Another section of the reserve is the aptly named Pampa Roja, where reddish oxides in the lava give the ground a henna-like tint. The threatening hulk of Volcán Pihuel looms at the western extremity of the reserve – its top was blown off by a particularly violent explosion that occurred when the mountain was beneath the sea.

To Argentines, Las Leñas means chic: this is where the Porteño jet set come to show off their winter fashions, to get photographed for society magazines and to have a good time. Skiing and snowboarding are only part of the fun – as in all exclusive winter resorts, the après-ski is just as important as the snow conditions. More seriously, many ski champions from the northern hemisphere head down here during the June to October season, when there’s not a lot of snow in the US or Europe; the Argentine, Brazilian and South American skiing championships are all held here in August, while other events include snow-polo matches, snow-rugby, snow-volleyball and fashion shows. But even though Las Leñas is a playground for the rich and famous, it’s possible to visit without breaking the bank; you could stay in the least expensive accommodation, or overnight elsewhere nearby, such as in Los Molles or Malargüe. Las Leñas is also trying to branch out into summertime adventure travel, such as mountain biking, rafting and horseriding, making the most of its splendid upland setting and pleasant daytime temperatures. Note that the resort is completely closed down, however, from March to May and October to the end of December.

Skiing in Las Leñas

Las Leñas is no Gstaad or St Moritz: it’s a purpose-built resort built at an altitude of 2200m, with excellent skiing and snowboarding – when there is enough snow – and a breathtaking backdrop of craggy mountain-tops, of which Cerro Las Leñas is the highest (4351m) and Cerro Torrecillas (3771m) the most daintily pinnacled. The whole area covers more than 33 square kilometres, with 28 pistes, ranging from several gentle nursery slopes to a couple of sheer black runs; cross-country and off-piste skiing are also possible.

The small city of San Rafael is the de facto capital of central Mendoza Province; around 230km south of Mendoza via the RN-40 and the RN-143, it’s a kind of mini-Mendoza, complete with wide avenues, irrigation channels along the gutters and scrupulously clean public areas. The town was founded in 1805 on behalf of Rafael, Marqués de Sobremonte – hence the name – by militia leader Miguel Telles Meneses. Large numbers of Italian and Spanish immigrants flocked here at the end of the nineteenth century, but the so-called Colonia Francesa expanded further when the railway arrived in 1903. Favoured by French immigrants during the nineteenth century, San Rafael built its prosperity on vineyards, olives and fruit, grown in the province’s second-biggest oasis.

In all, there are nearly eighty wine bodegas in San Rafael department, most of them tiny, family-run businesses, some of which welcome visitors. Tourism has been a big money-spinner over the past couple of decades, especially since adventure tourism has taken off. The Cañón del Atuel, a short way to the southwest, is a great place for gentle whitewater rafting, or you can try the much more challenging, dramatic Río Diamante. If you're exploring the southern parts of the province, you'll find a wider choice of accommodation in San Rafael than in Malargüe, although the latter still makes a far more convenient base.

San Rafael has a flat, compact centre that lends itself to a gentle stroll, but otherwise there aren’t any sights to speak of – the town is essentially a base for visiting the surrounding area. The main drag, with most of the shops and hotels, is a continuation of the RN-143 from Mendoza, called Avenida Hipólito Yrigoyen west of north–south axis Avenida General San Martín and Avenida Bartolomé Mitre to the east. Streets change name either side of both axes.

Cañón del Atuel

The Cañón del Atuel is one of San Rafael’s main attractions, a beautifully wild canyon linking two man-made lakes along the Río Atuel, to the southwest of the town. Visits begin at the reservoir furthest away, the Embalse del Nihuil, reached along the winding RN-144 towards Malargüe, up the Cuesta de los Terneros to the 1300m summit, which offers great views of the valley below; and then via the RP-180, which forks off to the south. The lake lies 92km southwest of San Rafael.

The partly sealed RP-173 then squeezes in a northeasterly direction through a narrow gorge whose cliffs and rocks are striped red, white and yellow, contrasting with the beige of the dust-dry mountainsides. Wind and water have eroded the rocks into weird and often rather suggestive shapes that stimulate the imagination: tour guides attach names like “the Nun” or “the Toad” to the strange formations. The road then passes a couple of dams, attached to power stations, before swinging round the other reservoir, the Embalse Valle Grande. Sticking out of these blue-green waters are more strange rock formations, one of which does indeed look like the submarine its nickname suggests. From the high corniche roads that skirt the lakeside you are treated to some grand views of the waters, dotted with kayaks and other boats, and the mountains beyond. Near here starts the stretch of the Río Atuel used for whitewater rafting. Raffeish , at RP-173 Km35, Valle Grande, is the most reliable and ecologically conscious operator, and has an office here. Trips last an hour, along an easy stretch for beginners, or a couple of hours or more, taking in a tougher Grade II section of the river; take a change of clothes, as you get soaked. The scenery along the way is pleasantly pastoral along the more open parts and staggeringly beautiful in the narrower gorges.

The cordillera south of Mendoza city contains two remote and little visited but stunning provincial parks – the fabulous Parque Provincial Tupungato, 80km southwest from Mendoza and dominated by the soaring volcano of the same name, and the Reserva Provincial Laguna Diamante, with a turquoise altiplanic lake, the Laguna Diamante, at its heart. The latter is a further 140km southwest of Tupungato and only open during the summer; both are well worth the effort it takes to reach them.

Reserva Provincial Laguna Diamante

Some 220km southwest of Mendoza, Laguna Diamante is the destination of one of the least-known but most unforgettable excursions in the area. The source of the Río Diamante, the lake is so-called because the choppy surface of its crystalline waters suggests a rough diamond. One reason for its relative obscurity is that weather conditions make it possible to reach Laguna Diamante only from mid-December to the end of March. At Pareditas, 125km south of Mendoza by the RN-40, take the reliable, unsealed RP-101, which forks off to the southwest; the drive is one marvellous panoramic view of the Andean precordillera, following Arroyo Yaucha through fields of gorse-like jarilla and gnarled chañares , affording views of the rounded summits of the frontal cordillera, before entering the Cañón del Gateado, through which the Arroyo Rosario flows past dangling willows. At another fork in the road, 20km on, take the right fork to the Refugio Militar General Alvarado, the entrance to the Reserva Provincial Laguna Diamante. Here, you’ll catch your first sight of Cerro Maipo (5323m), the permanently snowcapped volcano that straddles the frontier, some 4000m above sea level. Nestling beneath the Cordón del Eje, a majestic range of dark ochre rock, and towered over by the snow-streaked Maipo opposite – a perfect cone worthy of a Japanese woodcut – this ultramarine lake is constantly buffeted into white horses by strong breezes and its waves noisily lap the springy, mossy banks. The silence is broken only by the howl of the wind.

Tupungato and Parque Provincial Tupungato

Now that Aconcagua has become almost a victim of its own success, anyone looking for a challenging mountain trek with fewer people crowding the trails and paths should head for the better-kept secret of Cerro Tupungato, an extinct volcano peaking at 6570m. Its hulking cone dominates the Parque Provincial Tupungato, which stretches along the Chilean border to the south of the RN-7 at Puente del Inca. The virgin countryside within the park is utterly breathtaking, completely unspoilt and unremittingly stark. The park is most accessible from the town of Tupungato, reached from Mendoza via the RN-40 and the RP-86. There’s little to see in the small market town, but this is where you can contract guides to take you to the top of the mighty volcano; you’ll need plenty of time as the treks last between three and fifteen days, depending on how long you’re given to acclimatize at each level – the longer the better. Calculate on US$1000 per person.

Top image: Mendoza vineyard, Argentina © sunsinger/Shutterstock

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written by Andy Turner

updated 26.04.2021

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The Ultimate Backpacking Guide to Argentina

  • Post author: Marlou
  • Post published: February 27, 2022
  • Post category: Argentina / South America

Argentina is a beautiful and diverse country. You will find everything from mountains to beaches to jungle here. If you’re looking for a gorgeous and diverse country with welcoming people and great food, look no further: Argentina is your place. The country is big, but this Ultimate Backpacking Guide to Argentina will help you pick the places you want to visit.

The guide below follows a route from north to south, with the described places color-coded as a must-visit , highly recommended , and if time permits . This route is ideal if you’re coming from Bolivia. If you’re coming from the southern coast of Brazil or Mato Grosso do Sul (southern Pantanal), you might want to start at Iguazu. If you’re coming from the South of Chile, turn the route around and start in Ushuaia. When coming from Uruguay or by international flight, start at Buenos Aires.

Puerto Madero by night, Buenos Aires

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Traveling Argentina - Tips & Tricks

Currency : The local currency is the Argentine peso. Due to the high inflation rate, two exchange rates exist: the official rate , charged by banks, and the unofficial rate, the blue rate . When getting cash out in banks, paying by card and looking up prices in other currencies online, you’ll get the official rate. 

Getting cash out : I usually never recommend using agencies like Western Union or Azimo, but in Argentina, they are your best friend. They work with the blue rate, meaning you’ll get about double the pesos for your USD/Euro/etc. compared to the official rate (at the time of writing that is). When paying by card or taking out money from an ATM the banks will charge you the official rate so avoid this. Especially the ATMs as they charge you a very steep fee to take out your money on top. When paying a cash, a lot of companies give you a discount as well.

Whether Western Union or Azimo is best for you, depends on your currency and how much you want to send. Check them both and go with the most favorable one. Check where they have pick-up locations and their opening hours as well. If you decide Azimo is best for you, you can use MARLOUV934M88 for a €5 voucher. And, as a last tip, don’t wait until the last moment! Due to their popularity, withdrawals are not always available and offices mentioned on the website are not always operating. In big cities, you generally won’t have a problem, but finding a Western Union with money in El Calafate was a struggle and in El Chalten impossible.

Transport : Argentina is huge and so are the distances between places of interest. Luckily places are well connected with busses and domestic flights. Busses are comfortable and it’s often possible to take an overnight bus, saving not only time but also money as you won’t need accommodation. To get an idea of schedules, check Busbud or Plataforma 10 , but remember to buy your ticket at the terminal and pay in cash for the best price.

If the thought of spending 15, 24, or more hours on a bus scares you, have a look at domestic flights . When booked in advance, they can be cheaper than busses.

Food and Drink : Food in Argentina is amazing!! If you’re not vegetarian that is… Finding veggie food in big cities and touristic locations is easy, but in smaller, not so touristic towns it can be a struggle. As most Argentinians are descendants of Italians, their food is Italian style. Pizzas, pastas, empanadas and meat. Lots and lots of tasty meat. You can’t leave Argentina without at least one Asado. Argentina is also famous for its mate, a strong and bitter green tea, served in a special cup (a mate) and shared between friends, family, and anyone else who comes along. Argentine red wines are among my favorites, and they’re generally cheap too when bought in the supermarket. Lastly, Argentinians are big fans of Fernet and coke, a herbal liquor mixed with coca-cola. I can count the non-Argentinians who actually like this drink on one hand… But do give it a try, maybe you’ll become one of them.

North of Buenos Aires

The best thing about Salta are the surroundings. So team up with other backpackers and rent a car for a couple of days to explore the area around Salta. We rented one for 3 days, which was a good amount of time for the area south of Salta. You can also include the north and easily fill a week.

We found it hard to find a really nice hostel in Salta, most of them seemed so-so. We ended up staying at Ferienhaus , which was alright. But you don’t want to spend a lot of time in Salta itself anyway. Just a night or two to get organized and a group together (if you don’t already have one) and hit the road.

The colorful landscape around Salta

How to get to Salta

From Bolivia – You need to make your way to Villazon in Bolivia. The new terminal is about 30 minutes walking from customs, or take a taxi. Walk across the border to Quiaca and from here you can take a bus to Salta directly or go via Jujuy (more frequently. Spend a couple of nights in Jujuy, or continue on to Salta directly.

From Jujuy : There are direct bus services throughout the day, roughly every 2.5 hours, and the ride takes about 2 hours.

From San Pedro de Atacama, Chile – Transport is irregular, check at the busstation in San Pedro.

Mendoza is one of the most beautiful places in Argentina. Most people come here to drink wine and tour the vineyards (excellent choice), but if you have more time and your own transport, Mendoza has a lot more to offer. Explore mountain towns, go hiking in the Andes and swim in waterholes. Note that this isn’t a popular hiking destination for tourists like Patagonia and hiking trails aren’t as easily accessible/well marked. Inform yourself well and contract a guide if needed. If you want to see mountains, but hiking here doesn’t seem that appealing, take a day-tour of the high Andes. You’ll have the opportunity to walk a little bit, but do note that most of the tour will be spent on the bus.

There are quite a few nice hostels in Mendoza. I stayed at Koala and Hostel Internacional . Both were nice, but I felt like Koala offered a bit more value for money. 

Biking around the vinyards in Mendoza

How to get to Mendoza

From Salta : Busses go throughout the afternoon and evening and take 18+ hours.

From Santiago, Chile : Mendoza is 8 hours from Santiago in Chile. It’s a gorgeous bus ride through the mountains, so even though it’s 8 hours, I recommend going during the day. The border crossing is high up the mountains, so make sure to have a jacket at hand!

From Buenos Aires : Busses go throughout the afternoon and evening. Most companies take 14-15 hours to complete the journey.

Cordoba is a big student city in the north of Argentina. They say that Cordobeses (people from Cordoba) have the best accent in Argentina, so listen out for it. The area around Cordoba is beautiful but requires your own transport or a tour. As I didn’t find people to rent a car with and had limited time to spend in Cordoba, I took a tour to Valle de Punilla. It was a nice trip, but if you have limited time for Argentina, Córdoba could be a place to skip.

Valle de Punilla, Córdoba

How to get to Cordoba

From Mendoza : There are direct bus services leaving in the morning and at night. The ride takes about 11 hours, so perfect for an overnight trip. From Buenos Aires : Direct busses leave throughout the day. As the trip takes between 8.5 – 11.5 hours (depending on company and hour), I’d recommend going overnight.

Puerto Iguazu

Las Cataratas de Iguaza (Iguazu Falls, or Cataratas do Iguaçu in Portuguese) are by far the most beautiful and impressive waterfalls I’ve seen. I absolutely loved it, despite the immense amount of people here.

Note that part of the national park is in Argentina and part in Brazil, so in order to visit the whole park, you’ll need to cross a border. It’s the easiest way to cross from Brazil to Argentina. Make sure to plan at least 2 days to visit the park: a full day for the Argentinian side and half a day for the Brazilian. As you only need half a day for the Brazilian side, you can visit it while staying in Puerto Iguazu. If you’re not continuing on to Brazil from I here, I recommend this over going to Foz do Iguaçu. You’ll want as much time as possible on the Argentinian side. If you’re looking for a hostel, we really enjoyed our stay at Poramba hostel ! Friendly staff, nice breakfast, comfy beds, close to the terminal, and a pool. 👍

Iguazu Falls

How to get to Puerto Iguazu

From Brazil : Take a bus or flight down to Foz do Iguaçu. From here there are busses (or taxis) going to the national park and to the Argentinian border. There are lockers available at the park (for a fee), so you can take your stuff down to the park, leave it at a locker while you visit the Brazilian side, and pick it up before jumping on the bus to Argentina. 

From Buenos Aires : If you book on time and outside of the main holiday season, a flight might work out about the same or just a little more than the bus (taking into account that you can pay in cash using the blue rate when taking the bus). As we went in January and went rather spontaneous, flights were expensive and we went by bus. The bus takes about 19 hours.

From Cordoba : It’s 22 hours on the bus or take a flight. 

Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires is the gigantic capital of Argentina. It has something to offer for anyone, so make sure to plan some time here. I recommend staying a few days in San Telmo to explore the older part of Buenos Aires and get a feel of the vibe here. Hostel America del Sur is one of the best hostels I stayed at. Friendly staff, comfy beds, social yet not a party place. I really enjoyed my stay here.

Do the free walking tours of the city center and Recoleta . If you’re here on a Sunday, check out the weekly open-air tango show at the square. You’ll see a lot of places offering ‘Tango dinners’, which in my opinion are expensive tourist traps. Take part in a free tango lesson at La Manzana instead. After the class, the venue turns into a Milonga and there will be time for free tango dancing, or just sit back, relax and watch the experts. Note that they might not offer this with covid restrictions in place.

La Costanera Sur is a great place to go for a stroll and to get a green break from the concrete jungle. Afterward, stop for a beer in Puerto Madero, Buenos Aires’ newest neighborhood.

After a few days in this part of the city, change things up and stay a few days in Palermo . This part is great for exploring the cafes, parks, and bars. I loved the eco-park and Bosques de Palermo. The Eco-park is a former zoo. Nearly all animals have been released, the ones that are still here (some monkeys and elephants) couldn’t get released. Other than these, you’ll see plenty of ducks and Maras wandering around the park. Bosques de Palermo is a big park with lakes. Many people come here to do exercise and I’ve done my fair share of running loops here as well. The many drinking fountains spread around the park are a nice detail.

Make sure to do a day trip to the famous neighborhood of Boca as well. Note that Boca is one of the poorest areas in Buenos Aires, and outside of the touristic block and the stadium, it gets sketchy. It’s not recommended to wander off on your own.

View of the city center from La Costanera

How to get to Buenos Aires

International flights : If you’re starting your South American adventure in Argentina like I did, you’ll likely arrive in Buenos Airs. Buenos Aires is well connected with worldwide destinations. Note that in order to get from the Airport to the city, you have a few options in different price ranges, the bus being the cheapest. If you want something between a taxi and the bus, check out Tienda Leon . Note that Uber is illegal in Argentina, they do work, but are not able to enter the airport. So if you want to go by Uber, you’ll need to order them from outside the airport.

From Uruguay : Buenos Aires is just a 1h15 ferry ride away from Colonia, Uruguay. You can take a ferry from Montevideo as well, they just take a little longer. Check Buquebus or Colonia Express for schedules and prices.

From Cordoba : Buses leave throughout the day and take 9-10 hours. Make sure to plan your trip in such a way you’re arriving in Buenos Aires in daylight. Retiro is known to be a sketchy area, especially at night. Just make sure you at least look like you know what you’re doing and where you’re going and if you need to take a taxi and want to play it extra save, head to the Sheraton hotel across the park, in front of the train station and grab a taxi from there. 

From Mendoza : Busses leave in the afternoon and evening and take 16+ hours. 

While in Buenos Aires, a day trip to Tigre is a must. Tigre is a town just north of Buenos Aires right. It’s the gateway to the Paraná river delta, so make sure to jump on a boat and explore a bit of this delta and the beautiful buildings on the riverside.

Before or after your boat tour, for a stroll around town and explore the market. Amongst locals, Tigre is famous for woodwork as well. Many come here to buy their wooden furniture. 

How to get to Tigre

From Buenos Aires : Tigre can be reached by bus, regular train (Mitre line) and the touristic ‘train de la costa’ . I recommend the regular train as it’s cheap and quick. Consider the Tren de la Costa if you want to include some other stops in your daytrip. If not, the price is not really worth it in my opinion. The bus is cheap as well, but takes a long time due to the traffic in Buenos Aires.

Villa Gesell

Villa Gesell offers a nice break from the city in summer. Mar del Plata is bigger and more well known as a beach location. It’s just another big city though and can be a little sketchy. Villa Gesell is a lot smaller and, in my opinion, nicer. It’s a popular destination with teenagers for a drinking holiday with friends, so you’ll see plenty of groups dragging their alcohol through town. We stayed a short walk out of the center and weren’t bothered by anything. Don’t expect tropical Brazilian beaches here, you’ll be disappointed. I wouldn’t say Villa Gesell is a must-visit in itself, but if you’ve spend a lot of time in cities/away from the beach and just want to get to the sea, it’s a nice place to spend a day or two.

How to get to Villa Gesell

From Buenos Aires : Avoid weekends as you can, as basically all of Buenos Aires wants a break from the city in summer. Traffic gets crazy and the trip can take up a whole day. Normally, the bus takes about 5 hours. You can try Blablacar as well, but it doesn’t seem as popular in Argentina as in other countries. 

Patagonia and the lake district

Bariloche is a beautiful city in Argentina’s lake district. Enjoy the beautiful landscapes driving the route of 7 lakes, biking or hiking Circuito Chico and hiking Refugio Frey amongst many other options. This part of Argentina is famous for it’s trout and chocolate, so make sure to try them both while you’re here.

Book at least a night at Penthouse 1004 , this hostel is located on the top floor of a tall building right in front of the lake, in the city center. The view is worth the extra pesos.

Circuito Chico, Bariloche, Patagonia

How to get to Bariloche

From Mendoza : The bus takes about 18 hours. 

From Buenos Aires : The bus takes about 22 hours. When booked in advance, flights may work out cheaper. 

El Bolson is a small hippie town just 2 hours south of Bariloche. Spend a couple of days here enjoying more mountain landscapes. Probably the most famous place to visit here is El Bosque Tallado (the carved forest). The sculptures are nice, but I enjoyed the hike further up Cerro Piltriquitron more. El Cajon del Azul is a nice day trip as well, and Cerro Amigo provides nice views over town.

The best thing about El Bolson is probably La Casona de Odile . Make sure to book here. It’s about 5 km out of town, but as most hikes require transport anyway, it doesn’t make much of a difference. If you need to get to town, there is a bus that goes to town every hour, or team up with fellow travelers in the hostel and share transport.

As nice as El Bolson is, if you’re short on time and need to skip a place in this part of the country, I’d skip El Bolson. Places like Bariloche and El Chalten offer equally beautiful, or more beautiful hikes and they are easier accessible from town. 

A wooden sculpture in Bosque Tallado, El Bolson

How to get to El Bolson

From Bariloche : El Bolson is only about 2 hours away from Bariloche by bus. Transport is frequent throughout the day.

El Chalten was my favorite place in all of Argentina. There are plenty of hiking opportunities here, exploring beautiful mountains, lakes, and glaciers. The most famous hikes are Lago de Los 3 (Fitzroy) and Laguna Torre, but there is much more to see and do here! Make sure to plan at least one week here, maybe even two, you will not be disappointed. Bring your camping gear along to make the most out of your time here. If you won’t have an/don’t want to carry that much with you throughout your travels, you can rent here as well. 

Views on the hike along lagunas Madre y Hija

How to get to El Chalten

From El Bolson/Bariloche : At the time of writing, Marga Taqsa is the only one offering this route. The ride takes about 22.5 hours from El Bolson to El Chalten. As it’s a long therefore expensive bus ride, check Skyscanner for flights. A flight might not only be a lot quicker, if booked in advance, flying can also be cheaper. Do note that neither El Bolson nor El Chalten have an airport. You’ll need to travel back to Bariloche to catch a flight and you’ll arrive at El Calafate, about 2.5 hours from El Chalten.

El Calafate

El Calafate is famous for the glacier Perito Moreno . There is not much else to do here, so plan 1 full day here to visit the glacier and continue your journey.

Perito Moreno glacier in El Calafate

How to get to El Calafate

From El Chalten : El Chalten is roughly 2.5 from El Calafate by bus. Transport is frequent throughout the day between these two touristy destinations. Check the schedule  here .

From El Bolson/Bariloche : Take the same bus that passes by El Chalten, from Marga Taqsa . If you want to go straight to El Calafate, the ride takes about 25.5 hours from El Bolson to El Chalten. Add another 2 if coming from Bariloche.

Ushuaia is the southernmost city in the world, the gateway to Antarctica. Even though Antarctica will not fit most people’s budgets, Ushuaia does.

Here you can find more hiking, more glaciers, lakes, and mountains, but also penguins, sea lions, and the lighthouse at the end of the world’. It’s not quite the last lighthouse, but it sounds cool though. 

As for places to stay, We loved our  Airbnb ! Carmen is an amazing host and the breakfast is super tasty as well. The room is simple, no-frills, but we didn’t need anything more as we were only there to sleep. It’s a little walk out of the center, meaning the area is quiet.

Mountains and penguins in Ushuaia

How to get to Ushuaia

From El Calafate/El Chalten : By now, you should be used to the long distances in Argentina already. It’s about 17 hours from El Calafate to Ushuaia. Note that you need to cross the Chilean border at some point. From Chile : If you’ve finished your trip in Chile with a bang in Torres del Paine, you can go to Ushuaia from Puerto Nateles.

Other places to visit

Of course there are many more things to see in Argentina. But it’s all about making choices.  

Jujuy is a beautiful area with an interesting culture that I skipped. I was in a rush to get back to Buenos Aires and work, so I took the bus directly to Salta. So I only saw this area from the bus. If you’re not in a rush, do make a stop here and explore the indigenous culture from this part of Argentina.

Iberá National Park was on my list as well. These wetlands are comparable with Pantanal. As they don’t really cater to backpackers, and it’s really hard to get to by public transport, I decided to skip it. It would be a long way to go, and expensive as I was traveling on my own, so no one to share rooms and taxis with.

Puerto Madryn is great for wildlife watching and famous for its sea lions, penguins, and orcas. I was mostly interested in Puerto Madryn for the orcas, but as it wasn’t the season, I skipped it. You can see penguins and sea lions in Ushuaia as well, so it wasn’t worth the detour for me.

Stopping in the town of Perito Moreno (not to be confused with the glacier located a few hundred km further south) makes sense when driving, in order to break up the long drive between El Bolson and El Chalten. Stay the night and visit la Cueva de Los Manos on your way further down. Busses that take offer ‘Route 40 transport’ pass by here as well. From what I’ve heard from people it’s not really worth the extra time and less comfortable busses though. 

This was the Ultimate Backpacking Guide to Argentina

Enjoy your trip in this amazing country. In order not to make this article too long, I didn’t go in-depth much about the hikes in Patagonia and the Lake District. Click here for a much more detailed, one-month itinerary for this part of Argentina.

Laguna Toro hiking trail

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Bicycle Wine Tour in Mendoza

By: Author Dave Lee

Posted on Last updated: January 28, 2020

Bicycle wine tour in Mendoza

Our guide gives the thumbs up as we cycle through the streets of greater Mendoza

Going on a bicycle wine tour in Mendoza is a quintessential backpacker experience.  

A few days before I was due to leave the city, I was invited by Antonella of Kahuak to join them for a day of wine tasting.

Having already been on a wine tour a few days earlier, I confirmed that their tour would be to three different wineries, in a different region of the city.

And instead of hopping in and out of a van, we'd be on Trek mountain bikes.

At 9:30 AM, I was picked up at my hostel, and along with a German family of three, we drove South.

We were let out at a bike rental shop. It being Autumn, there was a severe chill in the air, and I soon realized it was exacerbated once you began pedaling.

Filosofos wine tasting

Filosofos wine tasting

The ride to our Filosofos, a small, family-owned organic winery, was no more than 15-minutes, but I could barely feel my knuckles by the time we arrived.

As the winemaker's daughter began the tour, I hoped it would last long enough for us to warm up.

Having already visited three larger wineries on my previous tour, I found the visit to Filosofos to be a nice change.

Our guide, along with her siblings, were following in their parent's footsteps by learning about the winemaking process.

And I appreciated the fact that they are taking an organic approach to grow the grapes.

Wine Tasted:   Vina el Cerno Malbec  (only 9,000 bottles produced per year)

My Thoughts:  Excellent wine, which tastes all the better because it's organic, and made with a lot of love. I wanted to take the mini-barrel with me!

Inside the fermentation room at Lagarde winery

Fermentation tanks at Lagarde winery

By the time we were riding to Lagarde, our second winery, the sun had risen higher in the sky, and had the temps had begun to warm up. It didn't hurt that we had already consumed our first glass of wine either.

My knuckles were no longer suffering from the cold, and I was better able to appreciate the scenery.

After 20 minutes of riding through the quaint streets of southern Mendoza, lined with the colorful trees of Autumn, we entered the Lagarde winery.

Much larger than Filosofos, Lagarde offered a look at wine production on a much larger scale.

While we were in the fermentation room, we could see men washing out a giant contraption used to suck (or filter) the wine out of the large, stainless steel tanks.

The temperatures in the fermentation rooms, like the wine cellars, are strictly regulated and kept quite cool.

It's interesting to see how the wineries differ in their approaches to winemaking and storage.

The equipment used to cork bottles of sparkling wine

The equipment used to cork bottles of sparkling wine (at Lagarde)

Some wine cellars are underground, while Lagarde's was above ground in a massive warehouse adjacent to the fermentation room.

The most interesting thing I noted on this tour was the 5-step process used to cork the sparkling wine.  

The process is still done manually, by a single guy, in a tiny space.

Wine tasting at Lagarde

Wine tasting at Lagarde

After the tour, by the older brother of our guide (who also use to lead tours at a winery), we had another tasting. This time, we were able to try four different wines.

I've noticed the larger wineries are often more generous with the amount of wine you're allowed to taste.  

Not necessarily the pours, which vary by guide, but the number of different types you can try.

Wine Tasted:   Malbec 2010, Viognier 2011, Syrah 2010, Guarda 2009

My Thoughts:   They were all good; however I liked the 2010 Malbec the most.

Lunch at Cava de Cano restaurant

Lunch at Cava de Cano restaurant

Cava de Cano

From the Lagarde winery, we rode our bikes to Cava de Cano, a restaurant that is more akin to an institution.

The cool part about Cava de Cano is the way they have separate dining rooms to cater to individual wine tours.

Our group of five was lead to a smaller room, with a wild boar's head mounted on the wall, among other animal skins (and even a pair of what appeared to be ostrich feet).  

Tango music was piped in to set the mood.

On the table, an Argentine picada. This was to be our first course. Picadas are finger food, usually consisting of different meats, cheeses, and vegetables.

The table featured everything from corn on the cob to tripe.

My favorites were the goat cheese, carrots in a vinaigrette, rice with Malbec, and roasted garlic.

Our waiter was the Manager, who was an Argentine-American. He said he likes to help cook and serve when possible, as he gets to know the food (and customers).

The lunch features all-you-can-drink wine, explicitly made to be served in the restaurant.

And they are not stingy when it comes to refilling your glass. If you don't leave the wineries woozy, you can always make up for it at lunch.

The second course was two types of baked empanadas: beef, and caprese (mozzarella, basil, and tomato sauce).

The third course was a meat stew, and the fourth course was spaghetti with fresh-grated Parmesan sauce.

For dessert, we had a few options. I chose the vanilla ice cream with dulce de leche sauce.

I could barely move after lunch. And that's precisely why our third and final winery was only a few minutes bike ride away.

Wine Tasted:   A house-made red wine (probably a Malbec).

My Thoughts:   It's good, you can't get it anywhere else, and it's all you can drink, so enjoy!

Meeting Carmelo Patti

Meeting Carmelo Patti (left)

Carmelo Patti

According to our guide, Carmelo Patti is an amazing winemaker. If I remember correctly, the winemaker was born in Italy, but his family moved to Mendoza when he was very young.

He spent his early years learning to make wine for others and only in the last decade or so, put that knowledge to use by opening his winery.

We took a quick walk through his winery, and then tasted two of the reds that he produces.

I was glad we got to meet one of the winemakers, which is a benefit to going with a guided tour as opposed to renting a bike and going off on your own.

Wine Tasted:   Malbec 2007 and one other red.

My Thoughts:   I'd consumed so much wine by this time, I honestly can't remember my thoughts!

From Carmelo Patti's winery, it was a short bike ride back to the shop where we began. From there, we took a van transfer back to our accommodation.

Overall, despite the early morning chill, I had a wonderful time on this bicycling wine tour in Mendoza.

The full-day itinerary included three different size wineries and a gigantic lunch. You'd be hard-pressed not to get your money's worth of wine and food on this tour.

What You Need to Know

Difficulty:   Easy. The city is very flat, so it's not hard getting around by bike.

Where to Book:   Kahuak offers a variety of wine tours, including this bicycling tour, as well as others that feature horseback riding and vintage cars.

What to Bring:   A daypack if there's a chance you'll buy wine, jacket, hat and gloves (depending on the weather), sunglasses, sunscreen.

______________

I was provided with a complimentary tour. All opinions are my own.

backpackers travel and adventure mendoza

Dave is the Founder and Editor in Chief of Go Backpacking and Feastio . He's been to 66 countries and lived in Colombia and Peru. Read the full story of how he became a travel blogger.

Planning a trip? Go Backpacking recommends:

  • G Adventures for small group tours.
  • Hostelworld for booking hostels.

Tuesday 23rd of April 2013

I'm such a lightweight, I'd be drunk cycling after just a tasting. Ha! But what a spread you show here - Wow!

The lunch was amazing. I did another wine tour and we also ate at the same place, so I got to enjoy it twice!

Wednesday 25th of July 2012

Hey - Sounds like a great trip, but their website doesn't have any intel on prices. Do you have any idea on the range?

I think the average guided bicycle wine tour (with stops at 3 wineries, and lunch) is about $50 - $55.

9 Epic South America Backpacking Routes: The Best Itineraries and Ultimate Travel Guide

Backpacking South America is an incredible experience that will leave you with lasting memories and a yearning for more. Planning the adventure of wandering such a vast continent can seem intimidating, but this article will demystify how the adventure can be simple yet more fulfilling than any travel experience you’ve ever had. In this guide to backpacking South America you’ll discover the best options for exploring my favorite continent, tips for getting off the beaten track, and everything you need to make your trip as smooth, amazing, and memorable as possible.

backpackers travel and adventure mendoza

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  • 2 Week Itineraries
  • 1 Month Itineraries
  • 3 To 6 Month South America Itinerary
  • Essential Info for Your South America Itinerary
  • South America Travel Budget
  • Where To Start Your South America Backpacking Trip Buenos Aires Santiago Or Medellin
  • How To Get Between Countries in South America
  • The Galapagos Islands
  • Where To Next Central America and Beyond
  • What About Brazil and Venezuela
  • Now That You Understand the Highlights Of Your Destination
  • More Essential South America Info

WHY YOU SHOULD GO BACKPACKING IN SOUTH AMERICA

Backpacking South America is an amazing experience! You’ll experience unique cultures, hike up active volcanoes, hike through lush Amazon rainforests, raft down giant waterfalls, and explore some of the most beautiful beaches you’ve ever seen. There will be challenges, but the rewards will be well worth all of the hard work.

TOP 10 HIGHLIGHTS OF SOUTH AMERICA

  • Patagonia and Torres del Paine National Park and El Chalten (Los Glaciares National Park)
  • The Galapagos Islands: Living among wild animals on land and sea
  • Buenos Aires : The gritty Paris of South America
  • Machu Picchu: Ruins of an ancient empire
  • The Lost City: An often missed highlight just as remarkable as Macchu Picchu
  • Food: Lima and Buenos Aires
  • Alien Landscapes: The high desert of San Pedro de Atacama and the salt flats of Uyuni
  • Wine: Mendoza wine country of Argentina and the equally remarkable Chilean wine country
  • Tayrona National Park with a campground nestled against the ocean and Minca highland coffee country, meer minutes away
  • Hiking up snow covered volcanoes and sliding back down
  • San Carlos de Bariloche and the Lake Districts and trekking through some of the most beautiful nature in the world
  • The Perito Moreno Glacier, this vast icefield is the third largest reserve of fresh water in the world

Still planning your trip? Be sure to read our article on the best times to visit South America and wehere to go if you’ve already booked.

THE BEST SOUTH AMERICA BACKPACKING ROUTES AND ITINERARIES

In this article, we’ll share the highlights you need to know about all the best routes for backpacking South America and countries you need to visit on your South America trip to help you figure out the perfect backpacking route for you. However, feel free to click the links below for the perfect itinerary for 2 weeks by region, 1 month by region, and 3 to 6 months in South America.

2 WEEK ITINERARIES

backpackers travel and adventure mendoza

2 Weeks in Patagonia

  • San Carlos de Bariloche (2-3 days) and the lake district
  • El Chalten (2-5 days) and trekking Parque Nacional Los Glaciares
  • El Calafate and Perito Moreno Glacier (1 day)
  • Puerto Natales (1+1 day) in prep for the Torres del Paine trek
  • Torres Del Paine National Park (4 days for W trek, 7 days for circuit trek)
  • Ushuaia (2 days) to expererience the end of the world and fly home

2 Weeks of Argentina, Chile, and Uruguay

  • Optional: Montevideo and Colonia in Uruguay (2 days ) Experiencing a smaller more polite Buenos Aires
  • Iguazu Falls (1 day) UNESCO heritage site that dwarfs Niagara Falls
  • Mendoza (2 days) Argentine wine country experienced by biking between vineyards and wine tastings
  • Santiago (2-3 days) Absorbing Chile’s capital through, art, history museums, restaurants, and nightlife
  • Chilean Wine Country (1 day) Just as charming and intoxicating as Mendoza
  • Pucon (2-3 days) Hike up a volcano and go where Chileans vacation
  • San Carlos de Bariloche (2-4days) A trekking mecca (day hike or multi-day) that only a handful of places in the world compare to
  • San Pedro de Atacama (2-3 days) : The clearest skies in the world allow you to see more stars than you’ll ever see anywhere else

2 Weeks of the Incan Experience – Peru and Bolivia

  • Lima (2-4 days) : The best culinary scene in all of South America
  • Cusco (2-3 days) : The gateway to Macchu Pichu against a backdrop of hipster polished Peruvian food and drink
  • Sacred Valley (1 day) : A calmer, emptier way to discover the Incas
  • Macchu Pichu and Aguas Calientes (1 day) : The highlight of Peru and (for some) South America
  • Colca Canyon (2 days)
  • Lake Titicaca (1-2 days) : The “highest navigable lake in the world”
  • La Paz (1-3 days) : The highest de facto capital in the world, with a “frontier feel”
  • Salar de Uyuni (Salt Flats of Uyuni)(2 days – ~3 to 5 days for SUV tour)
  • La Paz (1 day) : Returning home

2 Weeks of Alien Landscape – High Altitude Deserts, the Bolivian Altiplano, and Salt Flats

  • Santiago (2 days)
  • Valparaiso (1 day)
  • Atacama Desert + San Pedro de Atacama (2 days)
  • Uyuni + Salar de Uyuni (2 days)
  • La Paz, Bolivia (1 day)
  • Lake Titicaca + Puno , Peru or Copacabana , Bolivia (1 day)
  • Cusco (2 days)
  • Macchi Picchu (1 day)
  • Lima (2 days)

2 Weeks of Animals and Biodiversity – Galapagos, Volcanoes, and the Amazon

  • Quito (2 days) : Acclimate to South America in this relaxed and conservative capital
  • Otavolo and Otavolo Market (1 day) : Soak up local culture and shop for souvenirs at this uniquely Andean market
  • Mindo Cloud Forests (1 day) : An extremely boidiverse subtropical forest that is like few other places in the world
  • Galapagos – Isla Isabela (2-3 days)
  • Galapagos – Isla San Cristobal (2-3 days)
  • Galapagos – Isla Santa Cruz (2-3 days)
  • Other options: Avenue of the Volcanoes, Antitana ecological reserve

1 MONTH ITINERARIES

1 month in southern south america.

  • Buenos Aires (3-5 days)
  • Montevideo and Colonia Del Sacramento (2 days)
  • Iguazu (1 day)
  • Cordoba (1-2 days)
  • Mendoza (2 days
  • Santiago (2-4 days)
  • Valparaiso (2 days)
  • Pucon (2-3 days)
  • San Carlos de Bariloche (2-5 days)
  • Puerto Natales (1 day – in prep for Torres Del Paines National Park
  • Torres Del Paine National Park (4-8 days)
  • Ushuaia (2 days)

1 Month in Northern South America

  • Bogota (2 days)
  • Medellin (2 days)
  • Guatape (1 day)
  • Cartagena (2 days)
  • Zona Cafatera and Cali (2 days)
  • Quito (2 days)
  • Otavolo Market (1 day)
  • Mindo Cloud Forests (1 day)
  • Galapagos – Isla Isabela (2 days)
  • Galapagos – Isla San Cristobal (2 days)
  • Galapagos – Isla Santa Cruz (2 days)
  • Sacred Valley (1 day)
  • Macchu Pichu (1 day)
  • Optional: Colca Canyon (2 days)
  • Lake Titicaca (2 days)
  • La Paz ( 1 day)
  • Salar de Uyuni (Salt Flats of Uyuni (2 days)
  • La Paz (1 day)

1 Month of South America Highlights

About the optimal time backpacking South America: The truth: one month aiming to experience all of South America is pushing it as that timeframe is much better suited for a single large country or a couple of small ones than experiencing a whole continent.  Argentina, Chile, and Colombia can each easily take a month each when traveling at a comfortable, cost-efficient pace and absorbing the culture.  Ecuador, Bolivia, or Peru could be paired as couplets for a good month of travel as well.

But for those with limited time and lots of ambition, we’ll share an itinerary, or more so a list of destinations and minimum timeframes, for blazing through the best of South America in one month.

The balance: Try to absorb the best of nightlife, food, wine, nature, history, and ruins without burning yourself out by being discriminating about your destinations.

How to use this itinerary: Highlight half of the locations that are absolute essentials for you based on your interests and bucketlist, and the 3 places/sites that are your top priority as you’ll want to spend extra time in them.  For the remaining half, get comfortable with either breezing through them – to save time – or skipping them altogether – to save money and energy. As such we’ve listed recommended minimum days for each experience so you can patch together the itinerary that suits you based on the best South America Highlights for a month-long trip without burning out or wasting time.

  • Buenos Aires (2 days)
  • Mendoza (1 day)
  • Santiago (1 day)
  • Valparaiso (1 day
  • San Pedro de Atacama (from Arequipa) (1 day)
  • Puerto Natales in prep for Torres Del Paine National Park (1 day)
  • Torres del Paine National Park (4 days) – only covers the W Trek
  • Ushaia (1 day)
  • Salar de Uyuni (2 days – accounting for bumpy transit time)
  • Cusco (1 day)
  • Maccu Picchu and Aguas Calientes (1 day)
  • Arequipa (1 day)
  • Lima (1-2 days)
  • Guayaquil –> Galapagos Islands (5 days)
  • Quito (1 day)
  • Cartagena (1 day)

3 to 6 Month South America Itinerary

3 to 6 months is the perfect period of time for backpacking all of South America, with 4 months being the minimum sweet spot. The only difference between a 3 month South America itinerary and a 6 months is that we move at a slower pace and take more rest days.

6 months on the road is exhilarating, exciting, and a wonderful opportunity if you’re spending it all in South America. By being able to slow down, and spend a week in Buenos Aires , Medellin, and Galapagos, instead of mere days you’ll fall deeper into the experience and more in love with the continent. You’ll notice smaller details and absorb more as you will be in a less rushed mindset. Additionally, scheduling 1 to 2 days per week of no travel or sightseeing will leave you rejuvenated, refreshed, and a more hungry and interested traveler.

For this itinerary, we will list all of the recommended highlights of South America with the recommended timeframes for slower travelers. Be sure to take that recommended 1 to 2 days “off” per week, and don’t be afraid of getting stuck in a destination that captures your heart for a little longer than planned – just go with it.

  • Buenos Aires (7 days): A perfect introduction to South America with plenty to do and great food. Consider taking Spanish lessons here
  • Iguazu (1 day): Account for the extremely long bus ride in from Buenos Aires and know this waterfall will be worth the trip
  • Cordoba (2 days) : Practice your Spanish in this university town surrounded by outdoorsy experiences
  • Mendoza (2 days): Set aside one day for “bike and wine” tour wine tasting between vineyards of nearby Maipu, and relaxing in Mendoza proper
  • Santiago (2 to 3 days): Explore Chile’s capital with heavy focus on history and art museums, nightlife, and just wandering
  • Valparaiso (2 days): Explore the hills, graffiti, and nightlife one day, and soak up the towns vibe the next lounging and dropping in on beaches the next
  • Pucon (2 days) : Climb Villarica volcano and slide down one day, spend the next sipping coffee and enjoying a popular Chilean vacation spot as locals do
  • Puerto Natales and Torres Del Paine (11 days): Give yourself 1 day to prep, 7 to 9 days to do the “Circuit Trek” through Torres del Paine, and 1 day to recover back in Puerto Natales with a warm house and hot meal
  • Ushaiia (2 days): Get the post office stamp in your passport denoting “the end of the world,” take a day trip to see penguins, and wander the city to catch “end of the world vibes.
  • San Pedro de Atacama and the Atacama desert (2 days) : Give yourself time to explore by night and account for potenital hiccups on the travel to and from Atacama
  • La Paz (2 days) : Explore the town, markets, and street food, then day trip to ride the “world’s most dangerous road”
  • Salar de Uyuni (2 days): Experience the salt flats on a day tour fromUyuni and allow time for mishaps when arriving/departing
  • Cusco (3 days): Visit the museums, do a free walking tour (or 2), and walk within and outside the city to discover ruins everywhere. Additionally, explore the nightlife and food scene thoroughly as it is just as strong as in Lima but with a Peruvian hipster vibe
  • Sacred Valley (1 day) : Soak up Incan ruins without the crowds and chaos of Macchu Pichu
  • Macchu Pichu (1 day) : Visit the highlight of Peru and inspiration for the character Indiana Jones
  • Lake Titicaca + Copacabana/Puno (2 days) : Expereince the highest navigable lake in the world, and the culture that lives by its existence
  • Lima (4 days) : Explore art, gourmet food & drink, and nightlife in this metropolis
  • Guayaquil –> Galapagos Islands (7 to 10 days) : Slow travel through the Galapagos archipelago choosing as many independent and self guided experiences as possible for a richer, more pleasant experience
  • Quito (2 days): Relax and wander, visit the equator, and just decompress in this relaxed and mellow stop
  • Bogota (2 days) : Explore the museums (such as Museo del Oro), walking tours that cover the complex history, and nightlife including arguably the best nightclubs in South America in Colombia (and Latin America’s) financial center
  • Medellin (4 days): Soak up the good life in a uniquely Colombian, vibrant, and complex place, starting with free walking tours, then visiting museums and eco-parks, following on with nightlife and (ideally) learning to salsa dance)
  • Guatape (1 day): Visit a beautiful site in the mountains that looks like thousands of forested islands grew out of a lake
  • Cartagena (2 days): Experience the Caribbean at its most “Caribbean” you’ll find in South America – outside of Baranquilla Carnival
  • Santa Marta (1 day)
  • Minca (1 day): Visit an organic and hydroelectrically powered coffee processing station and plantation
  • Tayrona National Park (2 days): Hike in and camp by the ocean for at least a couple of nights
  • Cali, Salento, and Zona Cafatera (2-4 days): Discover more than you ever wanted to know about coffee while basking in the home of salsa dancing, and perhaps taking some lessons

ESSENTIAL INFO FOR YOUR SOUTH AMERICA ITINERARY

Travel through South America is uniquely suited for backpacking or any long term travel experience that aims to embrace experiencing local culture, food, language, and nature in a less structured way than package tours, all on a rather small budget. Compared to that required to travel North America, Western Europe, the Middle East, and many parts of Africa, the $40 to $60 per day budget of South American countries (varying by country) is one of the main reasons I recommend South America, as well as Southeast Asia as the perfect first time backpacking destinations.

In return for flexibility of timeline and compromising on 4 star accommodation in favor of hostels, guest houses, and refugios, you’ll receive a one of a kind travel experience in return – a more contiguous expereince than Southeast Asia in culture and language, a more outdoorsy experience that revolves less around beaches and more around mountains, and lastly urban experiences that somewhat echo a gritty yet more vibrant version of traveling Europe. Architecture, food, and travel infrastructure abound but are still uniquely “Latin American” with a different indigenous touch and richness in every country and region.

Here, we’ll review some of the general and basic essentials that you should keep in mind while planning for your itinerary overall as well as each country and segment of your itinerary.

SOUTH AMERICA TRAVEL BUDGET

Travel in South America is in a very reasonable price range – between $40 and $60 a day for a backpacker style budget, averaged across all countries, assuming shared hostels, eating out once per day, and DIY traveling as much as possible.

Compared to other regions of the world, South America travel tends to be more expensive than Southeast Asia travel, which averages ~$35 per day, but slightly cheaper than traveling the Balkans, and much cheaper than traveling the USA, Western Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. In recent years, the price to travel South America has become even cheaper, relative to Europe, the Balkans and Southeast Asia as the cost of living in some of the best cities for digital nomads and backpackers in South America has dropped.

Keep in mind that Argentina, Chile, and Brazil will be the most expensive countries to visit in South America, and Buenos Aires, Santiago, and much of Brazil can become very costly if you get too caught up in the luxury lifestyle. Because of this, when planning your budget for South America plan your budget based on the amount of time you plan to spend in each country and budget much more than the $40 per day for Buenos Aires, Santiago, and Brazil in general. This way, you’ll have enough time and money for an enjoyable experience.

Tips for Saving Money in South America

  • Travel by public transport between cities, specifically by bus, as much as possible, as air travel is very expensive
  • Travel slower, because the longer you spend in a city, the cheaper the average cost per day becomes
  • Cook at home, or at your hostel (this is common) and shop at grocery stores to “brown bag lunch” during the day to save money or order the “menu del dia” at restaurants for a cheaper option
  • Quickly check the currency situation of the country you are entering next as bringing in cash dollars or Euros may garner a better exchange rate

WHERE TO START YOUR SOUTH AMERICA BACKPACKING TRIP: BUENOS AIRES, SANTIAGO, OR MEDELLIN

The best places to start your South America backpacking route are Buenos Aires, Santiago, or Medellin, due to location on the “Gringo Trail” and flight access.

Starting in Buenos Aires

Starting in Buenos Aires is the optimal introduction to South America as there are plenty of international flights arriving, the city is easily navigable and welcoming, and, with the exception of Brazil, most everything you will want to see in South America is located west and south or north making it possible to efficiently travel a loop through South America.

Within Buenos Aires, the vibe is welcoming and very European. You will be able to navigate easily in only English while you figure out the ins, outs, and idiosyncrasies of traveling in South America. Additionally, you’ll be able to take some quick and cheap Spanish lessons for a week while exploring the nightlife, robust Argentine BBQ scene, and complex history of a city that is interestingly Italian, Spanish, German, and Argentine at once.

From Buenos Aires you will be able to travel west through national parks, waterfalls, and wine country before traveling south from Santiago, Chile by bus, to hop between Chile and Argentina repeatedly and explore, trek, and camp through Patagonia until reaching the end of the world in Ushuaia.

At this point you can fly back to Santiago and proceed north, exploring Andean South America. On this leg you’ll experience the mountainous and otherworldly Bolivian altiplano, ancient Peru and the remnants of the Incan empire, the biodiverse and animal rich territory of Ecuador and the Galapagos archipelago, and the complex and vibrantly charming gem of Colombia.

From here, if you still have time on your agenda, sneak past Venezuela and explore the vast, complex, and beautiful Brazil wrapping around and ending in Sao Paulo.

Starting in Medellin

For a more direct path, start in Colombia, specifically in Medellin, to enjoy the good life, get acquainted with the vibe and way of South America, and take some Spanish lessons. Medellin is another city that is very accessible, with very cheap flights from almost anywhere in the world, easy to navigate with limited Spanish, and enjoyable while you settle in.

From Medellin, explore northern Colombia and the Caribbean as well as the Atlantic coast – extra points for timing the trip with Carnival as Barranquilla has the biggest and best Carnival outside of Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo – not skipping the Lost City of Colombia along the way. Then, continue falling south through Colombia, exploring coffee country and the heartland of salsa.

At the border, continue into Ecuador exploring its diversity and rerouting to Galapagos for a once in a lifetime experience.

After returning to the mainland, follow the backpacking trail south through Peru, exploring the best food scene in South America, remnants of the Incan empires, and some of the best surfing in South America.

Then, explore the rougher side of travel in Bolivia, passing through the extremely mountainous Altiplano and the salt flats.

Proceed into northern Chile and Argentina, switching from an Andean experience to a more heavily European influence, more wine, and more opportunities to camp and hike in the forested, mountainous backcountry of Patagonia instead of the rain forests of northern South America.

Continue the fall south to Ushuaia at the end of the world, potentially hopping a two-week trip by boat to Antarctica before flying up to Buenos Aires.

Spend the remainder of your trip exploring Argentina, traveling from Buenos Aires to the UNESCO site of Iguazu falls, to the university town and outdoorsy Cordoba, and the wine country of Mendoza at the base of Aconcagua, the tallest mountain in South America. Finally, hop a bus across the border to Santiago, Chile to end your South America tour.

Starting in Santiago

From the Santiago start, proceed on much the same path as starting in Buenos Aires, except travel south, Santiago to Ushuaia, then fly from Ushuaia to Buenos Aires followed by traveling west by bus, city-hopping your way to Santiago. End the South America tour traveling by bus north from Santiago to Medellin and Caribbean Colombia.

HOW TO GET BETWEEN SOUTH AMERICAN COUNTRIES

A defining characteristic of traveling South America is that it is best traveled by bus, with the flight from Ushuaia to either Santiago or Buenos Aires being the only logically necessary flight. This is partly why South America is a destination best suited for months of travel if traveling multiple countries or for a single country if traveling for less than a month, to offer sufficient time travel by bus without losing your sanity. Along the way, the slow travel of busses will allow you to soak up smaller destinations that are on the beaten path but simply less traversed.

As off-putting as longhaul bus travel sounds, the “cama,” which translates to “bed,” class of buses in South America, more common in Argentina and Chile than other places, is prevalent and consists of a large comfy seat that seems more like living room furniture and reclines completely into a bed, making overnight trips bearable and interesting but still comfy.

However, if you do decide to fly, note that domestic flights are far cheaper than flights across borders, usually by a few hundred dollars at least, even if the comparable domestic and international flights are the same length, on the same airline. Plan accordingly.

Tips for getting around South America:

  • Plan on traveling by bus if possible
  • Attempt to keep flights domestic to save money
  • Colombia is the exception – with domestic flights being cheap and much more convenient than bus travel
  • When flying to Galapagos, fly out of Guayaquil instead of Quito for cheaper prices and less headache
  • Check out this article for more information on getting around South America: https://abrotherabroad.com/how-do-you-get-around-when-traveling-the-world/

COUNTRY BY COUNTRY OVERVIEW FOR BACKPACKING SOUTH AMERICA

The”Gringo Trail” through South America is one of the most scintillating and adventurous travel experiences on the planet combining urban experiences, towering mountains and ancient ruins, with friendly, vibrant culture in a way that few other destinations do. All possible on a rather small budget. As much as each country in South America embodies these traits, each country still truly has its own personality.

Argentina is uniquely European in the north, permeated with Italian culture, wine, and European architecture while having a Swiss Alpine feel in its southern experience.

Bolivia is a charmingly “rough” travel experience, taking you through high desert landscapes you might only see elsewhere in the Himilayas, and tying with Peru for its preservation of indigenous culture.

Ecuador is THE most unique place in the world to experience wild animals humanely, in a way that benefits them more than us, along with the most biodiverse landscape on the planet.

And every other country and region in South America carries its own personality and quintessential experiences.

With that said, no single itinerary or South America backpacking route is good for every traveler.

Because of this I highly recommend “getting the vibe” of each country in South America by reading our descriptions below, understanding the most easily traveled and economical route through them (the Gringo Trail) for you, starting in one of the three starting cities that interests you the most (Buenos Aires, Medellin, or Santiago) and just going.

From there, based on your passions and interests – food, wine, outdoors, architecture, nightlife, etc. – plan the travel allowing more days for the destinations and experiences you expect to love, and breezing past the destinations and experiences that just don’t get your heart racing.

In your itinerary, alot one day per activity (maximum two activities per day) and add an extra day or two of empty time in destinations you REALLY expect to love or that appear to have a lot that interests you on paper.

In the following sections, we’ll share the overview and highlights for the countries in South America you need to visit.

Click on any of the following countries to jump to our Country Quick Guides, or simply keep reading to soak it all in.

Argentina is an adventure-filled country with some of the world’s most beautiful landscapes and a great place to experience a mesh of European and Latin American culture. Backpackers should take a road trip between Buenos Aires and the Chilean border stopping at highlight cities along the way, then down South into the lake district and the Patagonian backcountry. On this simple L-shaped path you’ll enjoy the expansive, gorgeous scenery as well as its picturesque cities and easy access to the amazing food that Argentina has to offer – beef in the north and Patagonia lamd in the south.

In Argentina, real travel means experiencing one of the most poetic regions in South America: Patagonia. Throughout Argentine Patagonia, you’ll be able to hike for hours upon hours in federally protected national parks or go rafting down waterfalls through the mountain range. Backpacking Argentinian Patagonia also introduces travelers to food and cultures they likely won’t experience anywhere else in South America. The tradition of Argentine “asado” shifts from beef in the north to wild raised goat and lamb in the south. Additionally, the heritage of beer, brought by the Germans, and the establishment of mountain towns that seems remarkably Swiss and specialize in chocolate (like San Carlos de Bariloche) make for a unique experience on the Gringo trail. Be sure to try the beers by Cervezeria Austral, especially the Calafate berry ale.

Wanderers that do make it south will find endless opportunities for outdoor adventures– anywhere they go, there are infinite landscapes waiting to be discovered – from the frontier mountain of El Chalten, to just across the border in Torres del Paine National Park. while sights like El Calafate (near Perito Moreno Glacier), a quaint little fishing town that is the gateway to Antarctica due to its location near Ushuaia. Travelers in the area can rent boats for day trips onto the frozen glacier or take guided hikes with local tour operators.

There’s no shortage of activities: from trekking alongside llamas in Mendoza wine country, climbing Mount Fitz Roy (arguably one of the most

There is plenty of historic scenery and cultural heritage to explore in the north too. Buenos Aires was one of the earliest colonial settlements in South America for example. Further north “Salta La Linda” maintains an almost indigenous charm, justifying her name.

MY FAVORITES IN ARGENTINA

Buenos Aires is the capital and largest city of Argentina, as well as the third-largest metropolitan area in South America. Backpackers can take a walking tour around Buenos Aires, visiting historic districts such as San Telmo and La Boca that have preserved various architectural styles from different periods. Backpackers may also want to visit the Teatro Colon, an internationally acclaimed opera house that is home to performances from local artists and groups touring inter-America.Sa

When in Buenos Aires, Backpackers should take a walking tour around the city, visiting historic districts such as San Telmo and La Boca that have preserved various architectural styles from different periods. Backpackers may also want to visit the Teatro Colon, an internationally acclaimed opera house that is home to performances from local artists and groups touring inter-America.

Mendoza wine country offers backpackers a unique opportunity. Backpackers will find themselves surrounded by some of the most beautiful vineyards in all of South America with views of snow-covered Andes mountains in every direction. Backpackers can partake in classes about wine

Backpackers will find themselves surrounded by some of the most beautiful vineyards in all of South America with views of snow-covered Andes mountains in every direction. Backpackers can partake in classes about winemaking and tasting in Mendoza wine country. Backpackers will enjoy the expansive, gorgeous scenery as well as its picturesque cities and easy access to amazing food.

San Carlos de Bariloche and National Park Nahuel Huapi: The most beautiful and accessible hiking country I’ve seen in the world. Countless trails through forests, pasts lakes, and up mountains, with more than you could possibly do falling into the half-day category all of the way to the multi-day category making National Park Nahuel Huapi one of my favorite places in the world

El Chalten and Parque Nacional Los Glaciares: A frontier mountain town, simple and adventurous, adjacent to Parque Nacional Los Glaciares delivers a hiking and trekking experience through front country and backcountry that is somewhat of a “Torres del Paine light” experience and free – you just have to buy and pack in your food. each time I’ve visited, this has been of the most peaceful and enjoyable experiences hiking through Patagonia.

HIGHLIGHTS OF ARGENTINA

  • Buenos Aires: The Paris of South America, gritty and filled with Argentine BBQ (asado)
  • Mendoza and Argentine wine country: Bike tour vineyards tasting world class wines
  • San Carlos de Bariloche and the Lake District: A German influenced mountain, surrounded by hiking and trekking opportunities, and the gateway to Argentine Patagonia
  • Iguazu Falls, Argentina/Brazil Border: A UNESCO world heritage site, this combined waterfall has the largest flow of any in the world, taller than and twice as wide as Niagara Falls
  • Patagonian Backcountry in El Chalten: A small, frontier town that sits on the edge of the Patagonia Glaciares National Park, with great free, rustic camping and trekking with a more adventurous, less refined feel
  • El Calafate and the Perito Moreno Glacier: Witness the vast and impressive glacier Perito Moreno while exploring it via a series of walkways for a half day experience
  • Puerto Natales, Chilean Patagonia, and Torres del Paine National Park: Hike the “W Trek” over 5 days or the “Circuit Trek” over 7 days in arguably the most impressive park in Patagonia
  • Ushuaia: Experience the end of the world and the southernmost civilized city, potentially visit Antarctica
  • More of Patagonia and the Wilds
  • Argentine Asado (BBQ)
  • Latin America meets Europe
  • Best wine in Latin America
  • Also Consider: El Bolson

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT BACKPACKING ARGENTINA

Bring us dollars to get a better exchange rate and make your money go further thanks to the “dolar blue.”.

Due to recent history, Argentina is undergoing somewhat of an economic crisis. Though this event is terrible for locals, it doesn’t diminish the travel experience much and actually works in the traveler’s favor. The “Dolar Blue” is a “blue for an exchange rate much more favorable to you than the official rate. For example, at the time of writing this, the official exchange rate is 1 USD to to ~100 Argentine Pesos while by contrast the “Blue rate” is 1 USD to ~200 Argentine Pesos. The Dolar Blue rate alone makes traveling Argentine a great financial decision.

Comparatively, when I first traveled to Argentina in 2010, the currency exchange rate was 1 USD to 3.82 Argentine Pesos. At the current exchange rates, $1 will by you a Latte at an upscale coffee shop and $17 will buy you a ribeye steak at the best restaurant in Argentina (Don Julio’s).

To get the dolar blue, first educate yourself on the daily rate to go in informed. I’ve found https://bluedollar.net/ to be an accurate source. Next, bring your dollars.

If you don’t have any, going to Uruguay to withdraw from an ATM is a solid option, as there are many USD dispensing ATMs in Montevideo and Colonia.

Last, visit an “Arbolito” or unofficial exchange house kiosk. There are many located on the pedestrian street of Calle Florida.

Plan for long haul bus rides between cities

The distance between cities in Argentina are vast, so 12 to 20 hour bus rides aren’t uncommon. Do yourself a favor and only book “full cama” (full bed) bus rides over semi-cama and below

WHAT TO EAT AND DRINK IN ARGENTINA

  • Mendoza Region Wine: Aim for Cabernets or Cabernet Sauvignon as these are their strengths
  • Argentinian Steaks
  • Chimichurri sauce
  • Pizza, typical of Buenos Aires in an Argentine style
  • Argentinean asados
  • Argentine desserts Dulce de Leche and alfajores

DAILY BUDGET FOR ARGENTINA

Backpackers can expect to spend about 40 USD per day if they are traveling solo and making their own accommodation arrangements. Backpackers traveling with one other person can expect to spend about 50 USD per day on accommodations and food; those who travel with two people should

BUDGET FOR EATING AND DRINKING

Backpackers can budget about 40 USD per day if they are traveling solo and making their own accommodations arrangements. Backpackers traveling with one other person can expect to spend about 50 USD per day on accommodations and food; those who travel with two people should budget about 60 USD per

A budget for Backpacking Argentina will depend on a few factors. One factor is the time of year you go. Backpackers will have to take into account the high prices during the winter and shoulder seasons. Backpackers should also remember that accommodations are often much more expensive in the peak season (normally November to March). Other important factors in determining your budget are the length of your trip, how many people you are traveling with, and what type of accommodations you choose.

WHEN TO VISIT ARGENTINA

One of the best times to visit Argentina is during the shoulder seasons of September to November and March to May. Backpackers can explore at their own pace without feeling rushed and should be able to get a good price for accommodations. Those who want to avoid crowds may want to avoid the summer (in Patagonia) and winter months (in Buenos Aires and the North) as these are the peak travel seasons. Also consider visiting Patagonia for fall color in addition to the lighter crowds just before winter.

ARGENTINA VISA INFORMATION

Travelers can stay up to 90 days without being granted any type of permission from immigration authorities and without any fees.

GETTING TO ARGENTINA AND MOVING ON

Traveling into Buenos Aires to start any Argentina backpacking trip is the best option . A perfect Argentina itinerary and path would begin in Buenos Aires traveling the loop west then south through Patagonia and Chile by bus, and then flying from Ushuaia back to Buenos Aires to depart, or to Santiago to travel north and explore more Andean South America.

Keep in mind that as you travel south through Argentina you will (or at least should) bounce across the border into Chile to explore cities such as Santiago, Valparaiso, Pucon, Valdivia, Puerto Montt, Tierra del Fuego, and of course Puerto Natales and Torres del Paine National Park

THE ARGENTINA ITINERARY (**CITY ITINERARIES COMING SOON**)

  • Buenos Aires
  • Iguazu and Iguazu Falls
  • Mendoza and Mendoza Wine Country
  • San Carlos de Bariloche and the Lake Districts
  • El Chalten (Patagonia)
  • El Calafate and Perito Moreno Glacier

We’ve already mentioned that backpacking Argentina is a fantastic adventure, so it’s worth saying that Chile has just as many places and experiences worth exploring too. Backpackers who make the trip from Buenos Aires to Santiago will see the urban, cultured, and heavy European influence in Latin America, in the form of food, wine, university cities, and urban pockets, before following a more beautiful yet equally interesting path into Patagonia. The one up that Chile has is being arguably more outdoorsy and friendlier to the beach loving crowd.

Chileans, compared to Argentines and their neighbors, are remarkably more conservative, so you’re less likely to find them out at 3am on a Wednesday night going hard with work the next morning. On the other hand, thanks to the 4,000 mile coastline and landscape dominated by mountainous Patagoniw, Chileans outside of the bigger cities are know to be more outdoorsy and Salt of the earth. Take that to say Chile is the place you’re most likely to run into a local that’s a surfer, rock climber/mountaineer, and cowboy as well. And if the locals love these activities that means more opportunity for you to join in, safely ,and cheaply. If you prefer the outdoors, big night skies, and rugged landscapes to Italian influenced architecture, Chile is a place you could enjoyable fall through for months ending in legendary Torres Del Paine and Tierra Del Fuego.

By following the path south through Chile, from Santiago, “Valpo”, and Atacama, and bouncing back and forth between Argentina and Chile while falling south, backpackers can explore Torres del Paine National Park, take part in challenging climbing or make their way to Puerto Natales for an enchanting gateway town, climb a volcano (Pucon), explore the lake district on both sides of the Chilean and Argentinean border, pass through hippie towns, and more. Backcountry lovers seek out the many other less popular but equally beautiful national parks in Chilean Patagonia which tend to be more well maintained and improved than their Argentine national park counterparts.

On your way through Chile and Patagonia you’ll stumble past guanacos, pumas, and plenty of other backpackers enjoying life against a backdrop of incredible mountain landscapes while they traverse closer towards the highlight of the region – Torres del Paine National Park.

The further south you travel, the greener the landscape gets, until you’ve reached frost-covered volcanoes and the end of the world in Tierra del Fuego

Once you’ve fallen as far south as you care to, proceed north to experience the Atacama desert and some of the clearest skies in the world, perfect for stargazing in a way you will never experience anywhere else.

Chile’s long strip of land, dominated by coastline and mountain ranges, is an outdoor paradise speckled with fantastic wine. The conservative population, recently complex history (with the military junta), and lack of nightlife – compared to Argentina, Colombia, and Peru – make Chile perfect outdoors and nature lovers. EVERYONE should pass through, but plan how much extra time you spend in Chile according to your love of being outside.

CHILE HIGHLIGHTS

  • Santiago: Chile’s capital, largest city, and start point for exploring Chile
  • Chilean Wine Country: The Casablanca Valley is Chile’s premier wine region for crisp white wines (Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay) as well as Pinot Noir, located halfway between Santiago and Valparaiso. Essentially the Napa Valley to Valparaiso’s “San Francisco of South America” reputation
  • Valparaiso : One of the best cities in South America according to lonely planet, Valparaiso is “Little San Francisco” with a South America twist. Hilly, artistic, and charming with its own version of “Napa Valley” (the Casablanca Valley) nearby
  • Pucon: An outdoorsy lake town at the base of the permanently snow covered volcano VIllarica which is the trip highlight to trek and literally slide down after. In between you can enjoy the trendy cafes and socializing with international vacationers
  • Puerto Natales and Torres del Paine National Park: The town and adventure base for arguably the best National Park in Patagonia and South America hosting a 5 day “W Trek” and a 7 day “Circuit Trek”
  • San Pedro de Atacama: A high altitude desert city that boasts the clearest night skies in the hemisphere and unreal views of the stars amid a now trendy and hipster oasis
  • Iquiqe: A resort town on Chiles north coast that gives the chance to sandboard HUGE sand dunes enroute to San Pedro de Atacama
  • Valdivia: A past hub for German immigrants, as well as chocolate and beer, and now a lively university town with a solid nightlife and social scene

Also Consider:

  • Colchagua valley for wineries – south of Santiago
  • Chiloe (Region): An archipelago of 40 islands steeped in superstition and locals that are in touch with their heritage and roots of surviving in an adventurously unhospitable locale
  • Puerto Varas: A quaint lakeside town that is Chiles conservative, quieter answer to Bariloche
  • Central Chile: Great surf breaks, wineries, and Chilean cowboy culture
  • Epic Surf Spots: Arica, Pichilemu
  • Puerto Montt: The jump off point for travelers in Chile launching into Patagonia – big and busy
  • Concepcion: A busy, urban port city and the second largest in Chile

WHAT TO EAT AND DRINK IN CHILE

  • Chorillana: A mass of fries, cheese, hot dogs, and guilt that’s perfect drunk food.
  • Teremoto: A drink legendary among college students. One drink will shake your world up

DAILY BUDGET FOR CHILE

The estimated daily budget for traveling in Chile depends on the type of traveler and the country they are visiting. Backpackers and modest tourists should expect to spend around $40 to $50 per day (shared hostel, one meal eat at a restaurant daily, self guided tours), but those who enjoy luxury can spend as much as $100 (private hotel room, eat out 3 times daily, several guided tours).

WHEN TO VISIT CHILE

Chile’s extreme climate in the south means that it has a smaller window of time each year in which it is appropriate to visit expecting sunny skies – in Patagonia. However the shoulder seasons are still great to travel Patagonia if you don’t mind surprise rain and weather shifts. Backpackers looking to experience the Patagonian summer months might try visiting from October through February for sunny weather, but expect the most tourists in December and January.

Those who want to see the snow-capped mountains of Chile should plan on visiting during its winter months which typically fall between April and September – and plan on being able to squeeze in some snowboarding and skiing. Backpackers looking to visit Chile during its spring, summer and autumn seasons (October through March) might be interested in exploring San Pedro de Atacama or Patagonia for outdoor-oriented activities.

VISA INFORMATION FOR CHILE

Travelers staying in Chile for less than 90 days will need to pay a $5 USD fee at the port of entry. Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond the end-date of their Chilean visa Backpackers.

GETTING TO CHILE AND MOVING ON

As flights throughout South America are pricey, plan on bus travel when moving on to Argentina, Bolivia, or Peru from Chile. The land border crossing will be “interesting,” as Chile is very strict about the foods (mainly fruits and veggies) that cross the border into Chile, so ditch any fruits and vegetables before passing through customs.

ABOUT BUS TRAVEL IN CHILE

For long haul travel within Chile, for most Chileans, flights are out of the question, as they instead of for coach style “Pullman” buses, but likely not the kind you’re used to if coming from the US, Canada, or Europe.

These buses are honestly more comfortable than most plane rides – if you pick the right one. In Chile the longhaul bus classes are “cama” (meaning “bed”) and semi-cama (meaning “semi-bed”). The “Cama” seats fold down completely horizontal to create a bed comfortable enough for a 20 hour trip. I honestly love these buses for road trips as you get a seat more comfortable than any airplane I’ve been on, with the exception of a few first class rides, and a beautiful view out of the window, especially the further you travel south into Patagonia.

The bottom line: Wherever you’re traveling in Chile, go by bus and choose “full cama” for an even more enjoyable travel experience.

BOOKS TO READ ABOUT CHILE

  • The House of the Spirits – Isabel Allende
  • The Statues That Walked: Unravelling the Mystery of Easter Island – Terry Hunt and Carl Lipo (Rapanui)

South America itineraries commonly focus on countries, but adventures generally don’t stop at borders and Patagonia is a perfect example of that. Patagonia is a vast, wild, and a beautiful region. Located at the southern end of South America, stretching across Chile and Argentina, this legendary rugged landscape is well worth a visit.

For lovers of the outdoors that are pressed for time and craving a trip to South America, I highly recommend skipping the city life, flying directly into Ushuaia, and venturing solely through the region of Patagonia. That experience alone would be rich and satisfying enough to make Patagonia the only part of your itinerary.

HIGHLIGHTS OF PATAGONIA

  • San Carlos de Bariloche + the Argentine Lake District: This Alpine style mountain filled with chocolate shops feels like and is the beginning Patagonia filled with deep blue lakes, towering green hills, and days of trekking in the epic Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi
  • Punta Arenas: The gateway to the Antarctic and a Patagonia jump off point that, thanks to its history, is worth a few days to explore its food, festivals (if time right), and character
  • Pumalin Douglas Tomkins National Park: A 700,000 acre park gifted back to the Chilean people
  • El Calafate: The largest city near the Perito Moreno Glacier. Though El Calafate doesn’t offer much, besides a fantastic all you can eat Patagonian BBQ joint, the city is the perfect place to base for your trip to the Perito Moreno Glacier
  • El Chalten + Cerro Fitz Roy : A Patagonian frontier town in Argentina that is one of the quintessentially charming yet relaxing trekking experiences in the region as it is adjacent to the free to use Glacier National park, filled with free campsites, with the Cerro Fitz Roy mountain, the star of the Patagonia brand logo
  • Puerto Natales town as a base for the Torres del Paine W and ) Circuit Treks
  • Torres del Paine Torres del Paine National Park W or O Trek + Grey Glacier + Peho as the highlight multi-day treks in Patagonia
  • Ushuaia: The southernmost civilized city in the world and the main “jumpoff point” for hopping a cruise to Antarctica

WHAT TO EAT AND DRINK IN PATAGONIA

  • Austral Brewery Calafate Berry Ale
  • Patagonian cordero (lamb) cooked Argentine asado style
  • Chocolate (from San Carlos de Bariloche)
  • Empanadas with a Patagonian twist
  • Octopus and squid grilled on the beach
  • Comparsa (deep fried corn pancakes with cheese)

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT BACKPACKING PATAGONIA

  • Distances are far between cities, so plan accordingly with snacks, bathroom breaks, and the potential for a bus to break down
  • The weather can be unpredictable don’t think you’ll be able to travel Patagonia in the winter, and plan for sun, rain, and snow (potentially) year round
  • Carry cash ATMs are fewer than in other cities in south America. Some cities only have one ATM and they’re commonly broken too

DAILY BUDGET FOR PATAGONIA

Plan on spending ~$50 per day minimum in cities throughout Patagonia not including drinks and entertainment, and significantly less when camping in places, outside of Torres del Paine Park.

Hostel Accommodation: ~$20 per night

Budget Hotel Accommodation: ~$50 per night

Transportation between cities: $20 per movement

Campsites: Free to ~$10

Food costs per day: $20

Budget for Torres del Paine National Park W Trek: ~$150 if you bring in your own food

Budget for Torres del Paine National Park Circuit Trek: ~$100 if you bring your own food

WHEN TO VISIT PATAGONIA

Patagonia is a unique place where you’ll want to go during the summer for the best weather and experience. Summertime, between December and February, the weather is pleasant and dry, but plan for Patagonia to be filled with tourists.

The shoulder season of springtime, during October and November, amd autumn,, during February and March, give other great options wherein the weather is cooler, crowds are lighter, and prices are less expensive.

GETTING TO PATAGONIA AND MOVING ON

By plane, plan to fly into Ushuaia, which has the nearest airport, and plan to bus into your preferred city, region, or destination in Patagonia from there.

For budget travelers and those already in the region, plan to take a bus, and plan your itinerary at least a week out if possible. Buses between locations and on specific routes in Southern, more remote South America only run 2 to 4 times per week, and full cama buses run even fewer days per week. To ensure you don’t spend too much more time in a destination than planned (getting stranded), check bus schedules at the town’s central bus station when you arrive, and don’t rely 100% on online bus schedules.

BEST BOOKS AND MOVIES ABOUT PATAGONIA

  • Whispering Land
  • 180 South (movie)
  • In Patagonia – Bruce Chatwin
  • The Old Patagonian Express – Paul Theroux
  • Patagonia: A Cultural History – Chris Moss

PATAGONIA ITINERARY

  • San Carlos de Bariloche
  • Punta Arenas
  • The new Patagonia National Park
  • El Calafate Perito Moreno Glacier, Lago Argentino, and Los Glaciares National Park
  • El Chalten + Cerro Fitz Roy for the trek past Lago de Los Torres or the 4 Day Huemul Circuit
  • Puerto Montt
  • Parque Nacional Pumalin (largest national park in South America)
  • Futaleufú
  • Parque Nacional Cerro Castillo
  • Puerto Natales (fit and equip for Torres del Paine)
  • What: Daily Torres del Paine W trek talk and Q&A at 3pm at Erratic Rock
  • Torres del Paine Torres del Paine National Park W or O Trek + Grey Glacier + Peho

Bolivia is a country that anyone seeking to explore the natural wonders of South America should visit. Hike through incredible mountain ranges, take part in challenging climbing in the Bolivian Altiplano -(the Himalayas of South America), and visit the country’s highlands, and more to experience an extremely unique landscape and country. All with a backdrop of complex history and visibly preserved indigenous culture.

The Bolivian Altiplano carries a special beauty that is unlike anything else on earth travelers will have seen in their travels. Visitors will also experience a multitude of indigenous cultures, charming with op hats,, pet alpacas, and brightly colored traditional dress, and incredible attractions with “adventurous” transport en route.

Go by offroad ready chicken bus or SUV tour to the Salar de Uyuni, one of the world’s largest salt flats with mesmerizing optical illusions worthy of hours long amateur photo shoots.

End the trip in Bolivia, before crossing into Peru, at Lake Titicaca, which is home to a number of indigenous ethnicities and the “highest navigable lake in the world,” with man made islands made of reeds.

HIGHLIGHTS OF BACKPACKING BOLIVIA

  • La Paz: The highest de facto capital in the world with the “Bolivian Himalayas” as a backdrop
  • The towering Andes, the Himilayas of South America running across and towering above the vast and flat Bolivian altiplano
  • Lake Titica: The “highest navigable lake” in the world, shared with Peru, with man-made floating islands constructed of Totora root.
  • Salar de Uyuni (The Bolivian Salt Flats): Vast, impressive, and one of a kind experience – by day tour or multi-day SUV adventure
  • Mountain Biking the most dangerous road in the world

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT BACKPACKING BOLIVIA

  • Keep your valuables hidden, especially passports as petty theft isn’t uncommon
  • Travel as a group or in pairs to avoid being targeted
  • Backpackers should invest in a reliable travel insurance plan for their trip (e.g., World Nomad)

BEST FOODS IN BOLIVIA

  • Noodle chili
  • Chola sandwich
  • Cuñapé
  • Jak’s Iawa
  • Pique Macho

DAILY BUDGET FOR BOLIVIA

Bolivia is one of the cheapest countries in South America to travel costing roughly $25 to $35 per day (sometimes cheaper) for budget travelers and backpackers that don’t mind shared accommodation and avoid eating out too much. For less frugal travelers,, a budget of $50 to $65 a day for the basics, plus excursions will suffice.

Accommodation: ~$7-10 for a hostel, ~$25 for a budget hotel

Food: $10 for budget travelers, ~$15 for splurging

Transport: Averaged ~$5 per day if changing cities every 2 to 3 days

Activities: ~$10 to $30 self-guided and budget, $50 to $100+ for luxury

WHEN TO VISIT BOLIVIA

The best time to visit Bolivia is during the summer months between May and October when the dry season brings clear skies and the nights aren’t as cold. Outside of these summer months, temperatures in the highlands of the altiplano are much colder and may make hiking and camping less enticing.

VISA INFORMATION FOR BOLIVIA

Backpackers visiting Bolivia require a tourist visa, which can be obtained at any land border or airport, on arrival. The visa is valid for 30 days and costs $160. You will need 6 months validity on your passport, have proof of a flight leaving Bolivia before the expiration of your visa, and have the address for your accommodation in Bolivia.

You can find more information at the State Department website here

BEST BOOKS ABOUT BOLIVIA

  • Bolivar: American Liberator
  • The Lost City of Z
  • Marching Powder – Thomas McFadden and Rusty Young

Peru is great for any backpacker looking to dabble into not just a rich present day culture, but deep into the past as well. The country has so much diversity in geography, culture, history, ruins, and gastronomy that it could very well be satisfying as your only destination for a 2 to 4 week adventure.

Peru is one of the cheapest places in South America to travel, slightly more expensive than Bolivia but delivering a far better living and travel standard. The Capital of Lima has a variety of restaurants, museums, and nightclubs that are not as pricey as they would be in other major cities like Rio, but just as lively, gourmet, and satisfying. Visitors can also visit Cusco for its famous Inca ruins or hike the Huayhuash circuit on one of Peru’s famous day hikes while diving into Peru’s hipster food, drink, and art scene.

HIGHLIGHTS OF BACKPACKING PERU

  • Lima: Home to the best food in South America, Peruvian, fusion, and otherwise, and some of the best restaurants in the world
  • Cusco: A city littered with Incan ruins, charming pockets of neighborhoods and great archeological museums, and the jumpoff point to legendary Macchu Picchu
  • The Inca Trail trek or the Salkantay Trail trek: Adventurous, multi-day hikes through jungle and idigenous villages leading to the iconic, legendary highlight of Peru – macchu Pichu. Inca Trail – 4 days over 25 miles, Salkantay Trail- 6 days over 37 miles
  • Macchu Picchu: The ancient and once lost city of the Incas, towering thousands of feet above sea level and the surrounding landscapes and inspired the story of Indiana Jones
  • Huayhuash Circuit Trek (8 to 12 days): An often overlooked, adventurous, and enjoyable trek in Peru for outdoorsy travelers
  • Colca Canyon: Another great and often overlooked trek in Peru
  • Countless Archeological Sites hidden within the city of Cusco and around

BEST FOODS IN PERU

  • Ceviche: Citrus “cooked” fish dish that Peru is legendary for.. Every region has a variation, so try some everywhere you go
  • Lomo Saltado (Stir Fried Beef)
  • Aji de Gallina (Creamy Chicken)
  • Papas a la Huancaina (Potatoes in Spicy Cheese Sauce)
  • Cuy (Guinea Pig)
  • Causa (Potato Casserole)
  • Rocoto Relleno (Stuffed Spicy Peppers)
  • Anticuchos de Corazon (Grilled beef hearts)
  • Arroz con Pato (Duck with Rice)
  • Pollo a la Braza (Simply amazing roasted chicken)

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT TRAVELING IN PERU

Bring lots of water and a sense of adventure whenever you hike, trek, or adventure in Peru. The altitude and heat will dehydrate you faster than you think.

Pack cash in order to buy food or drinks during their journey. ATMs will be rare at roadside cafes and on hiking trails.

DAILY BUDGET FOR PERU

Backpacking Peru will cost roughly $30 to $40 a day, if managing how much you eat out, and staying in hostels.

An average meal will be about $5 ( adding up to $15 to $25 per day), hostels will run $10 a night, and imported beer will run $3.

WHEN TO VISIT PERU

May to September is high season for tourism and the best time to visit Peru. Though the costs will be higher and the attractions will be crowded, this is the season to visit.

The low tourist season of January to April may offer cheaper prices and thinner crowds, but the high altitude jungles of Peru will be in the middle of rainy season and extremely rainy. Macchu Picchu and the Inca trail regularly shut down in February due to excessive rain.

VISA INFORMATION FOR PERU

For most nationalities, no visa is necessary to enter Peru, just 6 months validity on their passport. The visa is valid for up to 183 days, at the discretion of the issuing immigration officer.

BEST BOOKS ABOUT PERU

  • Inca Empire: A History from Beginning to End
  • Turn Right at Machu Picchu – Mark Adams
  • The White Rock: An Exploration of the Inca Heartland – Hugh Thomson
  • Eight Feet in the Andes – Dervla Murphy
  • Last Days of the Incas – Kim MacQuarrie

Ecuador is the premier country in South America to soak in the experience of wildlife and nature. As the world’s most biodiverse country and home to the Amazon and the Galapagos Islands, few other places in the world will fill your thirst for David Attenborough styled Planet Earth adventures.

Backpacking Ecuador offers opportunities for hiking through cloud forests and active volcanoes, swimming with pink dolphins on the coastlines, taking in an aerial view of colourful villages from high vantage points and shopping from local indigenous markets. After the traditional sites, the Galapgaos archipelago offers interaction with wildlife – sea lions, sharks, iguanas, sea turtles, penguins, and seabirds – that you will unable to match anywhere else in the world.

Those who are up for a real adventure should hike one of Ecuador’s seven amazing wildlife reserves – like Mindo-Nambillo Cloud Forest Reserve – to see howler monkeys swinging on branches or quetzals (South America’s national bird) flying overhead.

Aside from Sri Lanka and Namibia and a handful of countries in Africa, nowhere else will you bring you as close to animals. And aside from Indonesia, no country will immerse you in adventures with aquatic animals like the Galapagos Islands and Ecuador as a whole.

For outdoorsy travelers, Ecuador and the Galapagos archipelago are perfect complements to Patagonia and not to be missed.

HIGHLIGHTS OF BACKPACKING ECUADOR

  • Cotopaxi National Park
  • Mindo-Nambillo Cloud Forest Reserve
  • The Galapagos Islands (Isabella Island, Santa Cruz Island, and San Cristobal Island)
  • Quilota Loop
  • Other: Guayaquil
  • Wildlife: In the Galapagos Islands and rainforests within the Amazon
  • Rainforests
  • Biodiversity
  • Walking across the equator

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT BACKPACKING ECUADOR

1. Get used to the altitude: The altitude in Ecuador is significantly higher than most places in North America, expect Peru. Unless you just came from Peru, plan to slowly adjust to the altitude at a low elevation while on your way to Ecuador or spend a few days in your first city (like Quito at 2,850 meters/9,350 feet) getting acclimatized. Hiking and trekking will be unnecessarily more difficult when you’re not acclimated, so take it easy and start out slow.

2. Be prepared for rain: Expect rain every day. It can come down in buckets or just sprinkle little drops, so pack optimism and a rain jacket whenever you venture out.

3. Wear sturdy shoes: Backpacking Ecuador requires a lot of walking which can add up quickly, on uneven, sometimes rocky, and sometimes muddy terrain. As such, you’ll need comfortable shoes with good ankle support. Backpacking shoes with good grip are recommended. Either some lightweight and packable hiking boots, or water friendly hiking saddles like Chacos or Tevas.

4. Fly from Guayaquil to the Galapagos Islands to save money : If you decide to go to the Galapagos Islands (which you should) then fly out of Guayaquil, instead of Quito, to save $150 on your flight and actually arrive via direct flight as most flights to Galapagos connect through Guayaquil

BEST FOODS IN ECUADOR

  • Empanadas de Leche
  • Guaytacos Ecuadorian dish with a variety of herbs and an avocado dressing
  • Albóndigas soup
  • Locro: Potato, corn, avocado, and cheese soup
  • Chicha: Fermented corn drink
  • Empanadas: A corn based pastry stuffed with meat, potatoes, and various vegetables
  • Pisco: The local alcohol brewed from grapes and distilled for kick
  • Llapingachos: Potato cakes
  • Encocados: Fish served with a coconut sauce
  • Seafood: A raw seafood cocktail prepared with lime and seasoned with spices and chili
  • Seco de Chivo: Goat stew

DAILY BUDGET FOR ECUADOR

If staying in hostels instead of hotels, traveling Ecuador should be $30 to $40 a day. That is assuming you are traveling as a backpacker, staying in a hostel and managing how often you splurge and eat out.

Travelers who are not staying in hostels will spend about twice as much at around $60 to $80 a day, including long trips and excursions into the Amazon.

  • Average meal: $5, Daily $20 to $30 (food, drinks, and snacks)
  • Hostel cost: $8 for a shared room, ~$12 for a private room
  • Imported Beer: $3.50

WHEN TO VISIT ECUADOR

High season for tourism is between May and September, when the weather is relatively cool and overcast with much less chance of rainfall, however, expect higher prices and more tourists. Backpackers visiting in October and November, in the shoulder season, will experience the best balance of weather and low prices.

Backpackers who want to find cheaper prices may opt to visit Ecuador in its low season of January to April – though it’s important to note that this is also when the jungle’s highland regions are experiencing monsoon season which may result in some parts of the country being flooded. Backpacking at this time is still a great call if you’re interested in seeing an active volcano and can brave the rain, or are up for some serious waterfalls hikes as the rains will “fuel up” the rivers and waterfalls making for great rafting opportunities.

VISA INFORMATION FOR ECUADOR

For most nationalities, no tourist visa is needed on arrival and a stay of up to 90 days is allowed. You simply need a passport with a minimum of 6 months of validity and your flight out of the country within 90 days.

BEST BOOKS ABOUT ECAUDOR

  • The Voyage of the Beagle – Charles Darwin

THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS

The Galapagos Islands are often thought of as one of the most impressive places in South America; and for good reason! These islands boast a natural habitat so diverse that scientists have found over a thousand unique species living with the borders of the archipelago.

You’ll find marine iguanas, land iguanas, giant tortoises, elfin forest dragons, penguins and sea lions to name just some of the bizarre animals inhabiting these islands. Backpacking to these enchanting islands is an absolutely unforgettable adventure that you won’t want to miss out on! The best part about visiting this remarkable place? Backpackers can enjoy amazing views no matter what budget they’re on making this the perfect opportunity for everyone.

WHY SHOULD YOU BACKPACK THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS? FOR ANIMALS, ADVENTURE, AND BEAUTIFUL SCENERY

Highlights of backpacking the galapagos islands.

San Cristobal Island: The lux island, with the best accommodation, fanciest restaurants, and swankiest bars, but still with plenty of excursions you can do on your own. From snorkeling in a bay with sea lions, to hiking through nests of sea birds in an eco-friendly way. Between those experiences, swim with turtles and hammerhead sharks, and get chased in the water by sea lions pups.

Santa Cruz Island: The “backpacker island,” cheaper, packed with more nearby excursions, on island and on the ocean, and home to an amazing nightly market where you can have a lobster and seafood dinner grilled in front of you with $25 buying a lobster and the rest of a meal for 2 people.

Isabela Island: The “adventurous island” as it is the largest of the three and mostly uninhabited as it is the youngest island, and filled with lava fields on the far end. If you want a truly adventurous experience, visit, and aim for the dry season.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT BACKPACKING THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS

  • You don’t need a live aboard cruise. Hopping islands and taking day trips snorkeling is a much cheaper and more enjoyable way to experience
  • For most sites, you’ll see more animals snorkeling than you will diving
  • Each island has a distinct personality – one is luxury, one is normal, one is adventurous, roughing it ready, and backpacker-ish.
  • There is a private flight from the remote island of Isla Isabella, that is worth it if you’re pressed for time. The price is ~$100
  • Alternate between self guided day trips and paid snorkeling trips to make the most of your trip and get the most bang for your buck

BUDGET FOR THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS

  • A modest meal (lunch or dinner): $10
  • Accommodation: ~$20 for a shared dorm, ~$35 for a private double room
  • Snorkel tour: ~$50 to $100

WHEN TO VISIT THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS

Though December to May are the best times to visit for pleasant temperatures and dry days, savvy travelers will want to time their experience around the movement of their favorite animals. Turtles, penguins, seals, various sharks, and various fishes all change where they live and nest throughout the year – sometimes closer to accessible areas and sometimes far away – based on breeding habits and food patterns that involve following their food supply.

To find the best time for you to visit Galapagos, decide the animals you would love to experience and research the migration patterns (closer to or further from Galapagos) and time your visit accordingly.

VISA INFORMATION FOR THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS

Though no visa is required to entire the Galapagos Islands, because they are part of Ecuador, there is a $100 fee upon landing at the airport in order to support the maintenance of Galapagos National Park.

BEST BOOKS ABOUT THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS

Vibrant culture, mecca of salsa dancing, the financial and tech hub of South America, former drug kingpin empires, and beachy coastline (Caribbean and Pacific) make Colombia a great country to backpack through. Travelers can see the beautiful Andes and Cordillera mountain ranges on the horizon, virgin jungle perfect for trekking, high mountain lakes with no less than six bizarre species of trout, cross bird-infested lowlands to reach pink flamingos and snow-capped peaks in just three days of wandering.

The capital city of Bogota is fun and welcoming to tourists with great nightlife and day attractions too while other nearby towns and neighborhoods within offer breathtaking colonial architecture in an environment where time seems suspended.

Medellin itself is one of the highlights of Colombia and South America, rivaling the experience in Buenos Aires while being cleaner and more functional with more down to earth locals. From Medellin you have quick access to Cartagena (by cheap flight)and islands off the coast like Malpelo and Sangral which are havens for sea lions – the largest colony of fur seals in the world can be found on Isla Clarión.

Beyond the cities, nightlife, and beaches, Colombia hides its own gem, “La Ciudad Perdida” or “The Lost City” which rivals Macchu Picchu in importance and stature. It is much more difficult to reach (adding to the adventure) and is far less visited, meaning you will likely have this remnant of the ancient Tairona civilization to yourself.

HIGHLIGHTS OF BACKPACKING COLOMBIA

  • Cartagena’s walled Old Town and nearby Caribbean beaches
  • The Lost City
  • Zona Cafatera
  • Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta National Park
  • Zipaquirá
  • Tayrona National Park
  • Medellin and Antioquia
  • Lost City – Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta
  • Carnival (in Baranquilla)

BEST FOODS IN COLOMBIA

  • Ajiaco (traditional Colombian soup)
  • Tamales de Choclo or Plato Criollo (Colombian tamale with rice, ground beef and vegetables)
  • Bandeja de Paisa

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT BACKPACKING COLOMBIA

  • Backpackers can feel at ease in Colombia because violence rates are lower than in many other Latin American countries – but take precautions as you would anywhere against pickpocketing and petty theft
  • Keep a low profile, especially while touring the cities and avoid wearing conspicuous clothing that could draw attention to you and be a target for thieves
  • Stay on public transportation when traveling between major cities. Private shuttles from airport to city center are available but can be expensive.

DAILY BUDGET FOR COLOMBIA

  • Total Daily Budget: $40 for budget travel, ~$70 for more comfortable travel per day
  • Accommodation: ~$12 per day for a hostel, ~$25 per night for a hotel room
  • Meals: ~$4 per meal, $15 to $25 per day total
  • Transportation: ~$7
  • Entertainment: ~$12

WHEN TO VISIT COLOMBIA

The best time to visit Colombia is December to March when the weather is drier. The wettest months in Colombia are September and October. However Medellin is known as the “City of Eternal Spring” and even in its rainier moments I still loved that city. If you are traveling elsewhere, not on the coast, double check the season, but Medellin is a safe bet year round.

VISA INFORMATION FOR COLOMBIA

Most nationalities do not need a visa for less than a 90 day stay, however their cumulative stay cannot exceed 180 days in a single calendar year.

 BEST BOOKS ABOUT COLOMBIA

  • One Hundred Years of Solitude – Gabriel Garcia Marquez

THE LOST CITY AND THE 5 DAY TREK TO REACH IT (LA CIUDAD PERDIDA)

The Lost City of Colombia is an ancient city built by Tayrona Indians. Adventuroua travelers can visit the city to explore the rich heritage of the Tayrona and see grand and ancient ruins.

A new adventure that rivals the experience of Macchu Picchu and the Inca Trail trek. Whereas the Inca Trail experience can have a months long waitlist and cost $1000+, the Lost City has thin crowds and will cost ~$300 for the 26 mile trek.

The Lost City of Colombia is one of the most hidden and least visited places in all South America. It was first brought into the light by a group of Americans led by Tovar Jara who followed the ancient Inca steps up to a plateau in Ecuador where they discovered carved stone, some gold jewelery, and an Incan/Maya calendar shaped like Stonehenge.

Comparison of the Lost City and Macchu Picchu

The lost city dates back to 800 AD and was home the Tayrona Indians, while Macchu Picchu dates back from the 1400s with the Inca empire. The “Ciudad Perdida” was hidden in the jungle for over 400 years, while Macchu Picchu was “lost” for nearly 350 years.

Both treks are ~25 miles long (round trip for the lost city trek), but the Inca trail is difficult simply because of the elevation changes, the trek to the lost city is adventurous on its own, traversing through dense jungle, rivers, and more of ~5 days.

The Lost City in Colombia and Macchu Picchu are both popular tourist destinations. However, there are some major differences between these two cities. Trekkers who want to delve into Colombia’s rich history should visit the Lost City. It’s one of the oldest sites found in South America. It is believed that the Lost City was occupied by people as early as 8 000 BC before being abandoned around 1500 AD. Backpackers may have the opportunity to explore this ancient city that’s filled with ruins of a once-thriving society.

An interesting similarity between the two cities is that each was built on top of a mountain and has stone pathways up to its gates. Both were built for spiritual purposes with the intention of connecting to celestial bodies from their heights. Tourists visiting Macchu Picchu will see pre-Columbian ruins which date back to 1400 AD.

WHERE TO NEXT: CENTRAL AMERICA AND BEYOND

As you reach Colombia or Ushuaia and thus the end of your backpacking trip through South America, my guess is you’ll be leaving with unforgettably amazing memories and experiences. For most, that alone is the trip of a lifetime and worth departing with a huge smile on your face.

However, for those lucky enough to have six months to a year or more free to backpack around the world , where should you go next? I highly recommend one of four options

  • Central America
  • Southeast Asia
  • The other four “trails” around the world
  • One of the “mini backpacking routes” around the world

CENTRAL AMERICA

Being only a short plane or boat ride from Colombia, Panama and the rest of Central America are fantastic follow on destinations South America. With coast on both sides of the beautifuk strip of land and a vibrant mix of Latino and Afro-Caribbean culture, the beachy paradises that stack up to be Central America are perfect backpacking destinations. Beaches, surfing, diving, biodiverse landscapes, animals, volcanoes, the tropical “island style” nightlife you’d expect from a Caribbean paradise, and an all around “living the good life” vibe are what you’ll find no matter which country you visit.

Beyond Central America, but close in vibe and location, is a digital nomad favorite of Mexico. Mexico offers some of the most diverse and rich experiences of the region, with an amazing food scene, vast coastline, and fantastic, welcoming culture and people with depth and charm throughout.

Though the cost of travel in Central America will be more expensive than in South America, the experience will be just as rich and (in the more expensive places) will offer more of the amenities common in the US, Canada, and Mexico that are difficult to find in South America.

So, if you have a few more months on the road and want a place near South America, consider sailing to Panama and continuing north to Mexico.

SOUTHEAST ASIA

For backpackers on the “round the world” tour aiming to hit all of the backpacker highlights in the world and aiming for a cheaper cost of travel, the “ Banana Pancake trail ” popular with backpackers in Southeast Asia is the perfect way to spend three to six months of travel, with four months being the sweet spot.

So if you’re on the year long backpacking trip, I highly recommend Southeast Asia – the cluster of Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and possibly Sri Lanka, Malaysia, and Indonesia as your next destinations.

During the wanderings you’ll experience the hub of backpacker culture, beach life, and thousands of years old cultures all possible on a budget of $25 to $40 per day.

Be sure to check out our Ultimate Guide to the Banana Pancake Trail and Backpacking Southeast Asia

THE BACKPACKING TRAILS AROUND THE WORLD

For the travelers lucky enough to have a whole year or more to explore the world, I highly recommend making the most of it by trodding off the beaten path and on to more budget friendly destinations over the popular and famed travel locales. Instead of Western Europe, travel to the Balkans, the Caucus region, and Eastern Europe. Even better, travel Arabia and the highlights of the Middle East.

As daunting as this task of hitting the major regions of the world – the Balkans via the “Balkan Walk”, Southeast Asia via the “Banana Pancake Trail”, the Middle East via the “Arabian Trail,” and Central America via the “Maya Trail” – may seem it is sctually easier than you think. Each of these paths through their respective regions are filled with friendly backpackers traveling on a self contained, conveyor belt like path if backpacker friendly infrastructure that shuttles them through the highlights of each region.

To learn more about “The Trails” approach to backpacking around the world, read our full article “ The Trails: A Guide to Backpacking the World .”

THE “MINI TRAILS” OF THE WORLD: 15 PERFECT TRIPS FOR 2 WEEKS OR LESS

If you are not lucky enough (yet) to have a year available to travel the world, the “ mini-backpacking trails ” are perfect for you. 15 countries and regional backpacking and travel paths that fit perfectly into a 2 week trip while delivering all of the pleasure, excitement, and adventure of a round the world trip.

Here are the 15 mini-backpacking trails of the world

  • Vietnam :  The new backpacker trail and moto adventures
  • Thailand :  A classicstarter for backpackers
  • Philippines :  Waterworld, filled with diving and liveaboard cruises
  • Bali & the “Gilis” :  Island meets Asia meets eclectic
  • Myanmar :  Ancient civilizations
  • Sri Lanka :  Animal safaris, tuk tuks, ancient kingdoms, and surfing
  • Nepal :  A mecca for trekking
  • Colombia :  Close to home and rich with vibrant experiences
  • Argentina & Chile :  A Latin American European experience wrapped in wine, steak, and outdoors
  • Patagonia & the Argentine Lake Districts :  Quintessential trekking experiences in South America
  • Bolivia, Peru, and Galapagos :  South America’s frontier at the Andean Altiplano and the “Tibet of South America”
  • Turkey :  East meets west dotted with history and otherworldly landscapes
  • Israel and Jordan :  A quintessential experience of the Middle East, safely, and easily
  • Croatia & Montenegro :  Coastal Europe with castles and irreplaceable views
  • Albania :  Mediterranean beaches and emerging experiences

WHAT ABOUT BRAZIL AND VENEZUELA?

Brazil is so large and rich in experience that it should be its own trip. Traveling Brazil properly would involve a 4 to 6 month trip, experiencing the contrast of vibrant cities such as Rio, vast cultural hubs like Sao Paulo, a plethora of Amazonian gateways, countless beach cities – ritzy like Florianopolis and far off the beaten path – and so much more to explore. Additionally, the vast distances between the numerous sites you need to see make Brazil much harder to travel than its South American siblings.

If you want a taste of Brazil, pass through Rio, Sao Paulo, Recife, Florianopolis, Porto Alegre or Manaus (the gateway to the Amazon).

Backpackers who want to visit the Amazon can stay in Manaus and then travel downriver on a boat (usually for as long as 2-3 weeks). This also offers the option of flying or taking a bus from anywhere in Brazil all the way to Manaus and exploring all they can from there. Backpackers can explore the mountains of Rio de Janeiro or head east to Salvador de Bahia, where they’ll find miles of beachfront property in one of South America’s most popular tourist destinations.

Also consider the Brazilian Pantanal in Mato Grosso do Sul. Backpackers looking for experiences that are truly off the beaten path will find them throughout Brazil, but especially in it’s northern reaches and inland cities such as Palmas or Fortaleza.

As for Venezuela…

Venezuela is chreenrly experiencing a serious economic crisis and danger as well. In my time in South America, I ran into several Venezuelans who chose not to go back to Venezuela due to security concerns – and I would advise most travelers to do the same.

Venezuela is currently experiencing instability with a corrupt government system that has poor track record for protecting travelers and that should play heavily into your decision to visit Venezuela.

I do hope things return to normal soon for the populace and travels as Venezuela is a country that matches the rest of South America in natural beauty, culture, and experience.

NOW THAT YOU UNDERSTAND THE HIGHLIGHTS OF YOUR DESTINATION OPTIONS IN SOUTH AMERICA, START WRITING YOUR ITINERARY

  • Decide on how much time you have
  • Decide on your budget, minus flights in and out, and divide that into a daily budget
  • Review this list of countries and highlights, and visit our country specific guides and itineraries to get a better feel for each country, then list your “must-see” locations and attractions, also keeping in mind the places you can do without
  • Decide your start and end points, with your start point being solid and your endpoint being fairly flexible
  • Draw your rough route
  • Dot your destinations along the way
  • Plan the number of days you’ll need for each destination and experience, add in 1 to 2 days per week as downtime with no travel or specific exploration, then add them up to ensure they’ll fit your timeline and budget (i.e., time to bus between locations if flights are too expensive)
  • Adjust your itinerary as necessary
  • Understand that staying flexible is best as you will discover places and people that your timeline is worth changing for

OTHER GREAT ARTICLES ABOUT TRAVELING THE WORLD

  • 11 Reasons why Buenos Aires is the perfect city for a long stay
  • 5 Essential Routes for Backpacking the World and Visiting Every Continent
  • The Balkan Walk: The Perfect Backpacking Itinerary for the Balkans
  • 3 Months in Southeast Asia: A Perfect Plan for the the “Banana Pancake Trail”
  • The Mini Backpacking Trails: 15 Itineraries Aroudn the World for 2 Weeks or Less
  • The 10 Day Middle East Itinerary

(Click here to return to the Table of Contents)

More Great Articles to Help You Get Abroad:

  • The Ultimate Malaysia Digital Nomad Visa Guide
  • Moving to Malaysia: A Complete Guide
  • Moving to Bali: A complete guide for digital nomads and aspiring expats
  • The New Thailand Visa Exemption: Everything You Need to Know
  • The New Bali Digital Nomad Visa and 5 Other Options: A Complete Guide
  • Buying a House on Bali: A Complete Guide to Cheap, Easy Home Ownership in Bali
  • The 51 Best Digital Nomad Jobs among Successful Nomads
  • 9 Epic South America Backpacking Routes
  • Backpacking the World…2 Weeks at a Time
  • Is Geoarbitrage for You? An Ultimate Guide to Living Better for Cheaper as a as a Nomad

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Experience Unforgettable Backpacking in Argentina: Top 11 Dreamy Destinations

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Welcome to Argentina, a land of astonishing diversity and breathtaking landscapes. At Roadless Wonders , we're about to take you on a journey that'll leave you yearning for more. Picture yourself backpacking in Argentina, where majestic mountains meet roaring waterfalls, quaint towns embrace cosmopolitan cities, and every bend in the road brings you face-to-face with a new adventure.

Our guide, "11 Best Destinations for Backpacking in Argentina", is your roadmap to exploring this stunning country in all its facets. We'll introduce you to bustling Buenos Aires, with its pulsating tango rhythm and vibrant nightlife. We'll guide you through Bariloche, the outdoor haven nestled in the heart of the Andes, and lead you to the awe-inspiring vistas of Iguazu Falls and Los Glaciares National Park.

Imagine sipping world-class wines in Mendoza, feeling the thrill of Ushuaia - the world's southernmost city, and soaking in the historical grandeur of Cordoba and Salta. From the vast plains of Patagonia to the intriguing culture of Jujuy, each destination in our guide offers a unique glimpse into the incredible experiences that Argentina has in store for you.

So, strap on your backpack and join us on this adventure. By the time you reach the end of this guide, you'll be ready to tackle Argentina with confidence, armed with insider tips and the hidden secrets that only true backpacking enthusiasts know. Get ready to step off the beaten track with Roadless Wonders, your trusted companion for backpacking in Argentina. Let's hit the road, shall we?

Bariloche: A Haven for Outdoor Enthusiasts

backpacking in argentina barlioche

Bariloche is a magnet for lovers of nature and the great outdoors, making it a top spot for backpacking in Argentina. Perched on the shores of Nahuel Huapi Lake and bordered by snow-capped mountains, this city feels more like a slice of Switzerland transported to South America.

Exploring Nahuel Huapi National Park

There's no better way to start your Bariloche adventure than by exploring Nahuel Huapi National Park . This natural wonder spans over a whopping 7,000 square kilometers and boasts a diverse landscape of dense forests, sparkling lakes, and soaring mountains. The park's wildlife is equally varied, with a chance to spot native species like the Andean condor and Huemul deer. Hiking, camping, and boat tours offer various ways to soak in the park's beauty.

Recommended Hikes for Backpackers in Bariloche

For those with a love for trekking, Bariloche does not disappoint. There are numerous trails suitable for all fitness levels. The Refugio Frey and Cerro Campanario trails offer breathtaking views and the chance to traverse varied landscapes. Or, for a more relaxed stroll, the Circuito Chico provides a 60-km trail that loops around some of Bariloche's most picturesque spots.

The Cultural Appeal of Bariloche Town

When you've had your fill of hiking, the town of Bariloche offers an appealing blend of cultural experiences. With its alpine-style architecture and delectable chocolate shops, it's a delightful place to relax and unwind. Don't miss the Centro Cívico, a charming square home to the town's museum, and a great place to delve into local history.

Buenos Aires: The Backpacker's Metropolis

buenos aires

From Bariloche, we head to the beating heart of Argentina, Buenos Aires. This cosmopolitan city is the country's bustling capital and a paradise for backpackers seeking an urban adventure.

Wander Through the Distinctive Neighborhoods

The city is a patchwork of distinctive neighborhoods, each with its own unique charm. Stroll through San Telmo , the city's oldest barrio, to catch a glimpse of the Buenos Aires of yesteryear, with its cobbled streets and colonial buildings. Visit La Boca, a vibrant neighborhood known for its colorful houses and lively street performances. Don't miss Palermo, the city's largest barrio, a hub of creativity brimming with quirky cafes, boutiques, and street art.

A Dive into Buenos Aires' Cultural and Historical Gems

While backpacking in Buenos Aires, take the time to explore its wealth of cultural and historical landmarks. Marvel at the grandeur of the Teatro Colón , one of the world's best opera houses, or explore the iconic Presidential Palace, the Casa Rosada. Visit the Recoleta Cemetery, the final resting place of many of Argentina's most important figures, including Eva Perón.

The Exuberant Buenos Aires Nightlife

As night falls, Buenos Aires comes alive with a vibrant nightlife that's hard to match. Whether you fancy watching a traditional tango show, sampling local wines in a cozy bar, or dancing until dawn in a high-energy club, there's something for every taste. And for the truly adventurous, joining a local milonga (tango dance party) is an experience you'll never forget.

Cordoba: A Blend of History and Adventure

Cordoba

Cordoba, Argentina's second-largest city, provides a unique blend of historic charm and modern excitement. Known for its colonial architecture and youthful energy, this city is a delightful destination for backpacking in Argentina.

Discovering Cordoba's Colonial Legacy

The city's rich colonial history is evident in its well-preserved architecture. Wander around Cordoba's center to find a myriad of monuments and buildings from the Spanish colonial period. Don't miss the iconic Cordoba Cathedral, a majestic piece of architecture dating back to the 18th century. Nearby, the Jesuit Block , a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers insight into the city's Jesuit past.

Thrilling Adventure Activities in Cordoba

For adrenaline junkies, Cordoba offers a wide array of outdoor activities . The surrounding Sierras de Cordoba, a mountain range with stunning landscapes, are a haven for hikers, horseback riders, and rock climbers. And if you're into water sports, the numerous lakes and rivers around Cordoba provide perfect spots for sailing, windsurfing, or fishing.

Experiencing Cordoba's Bustling Night Markets

When the sun sets, Cordoba transforms into a lively scene with bustling night markets. The Mercado Norte is a must-visit, offering a delightful mix of artisan goods, local produce, and delectable street food. Meanwhile, Paseo de Las Artes, another popular market, is an ideal place to find unique, handcrafted souvenirs to commemorate your backpacking adventure in Argentina.

El Calafate: The Gateway to Wonders

El Calafate

From the city's hustle and bustle, we journey to the southern frontier to El Calafate . Known as the gateway to the incredible Los Glaciares National Park, El Calafate is a vital stop on your backpacking in Argentina itinerary.

The Perito Moreno Glacier Excursion

El Calafate's star attraction is the astounding Perito Moreno Glacier. This massive, 250 km² glacier is one of the few in the world that is still growing. Embark on a guided tour to walk on the glacier, listen to the ice cracking, and witness huge chunks calving into the turquoise waters of Argentino Lake. It's a humbling experience that highlights the raw power of nature.

Wildlife Encounters in El Calafate

Aside from glaciers, El Calafate is also home to an array of wildlife. Visit the Nimez Lagoon Reserve, a sanctuary for migratory birds like flamingos, swans, and wigeons. And for a more up-close experience with local fauna, a boat trip on Argentino Lake might get you sightings of seals, eagles, and perhaps even the elusive puma.

El Calafate, The Launchpad to Patagonia

El Calafate serves as the perfect launchpad to the breathtaking wilderness of Patagonia. From here, you can easily venture further south to explore the vast landscapes of Torres del Paine National Park in Chile or travel north to the rugged peaks of Fitz Roy near the town of El Chalten. Either way, your backpacking journey in Argentina is bound to be filled with awe-inspiring moments that you'll remember for a lifetime.

Iguazu Falls: Where Nature Roars

Iguazu Falls

Backpacking in Argentina would not be complete without a visit to Iguazu Falls . Nestled in the heart of the rainforest at the border of Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay, these falls are one of the most magnificent natural spectacles on earth.

Majestic Views at Iguazu Falls

The sheer scale of Iguazu Falls is awe-inspiring, with 275 individual cascades thundering down from heights of up to 82 meters. The most famous of these is the Devil's Throat, a U-shaped fall that accounts for half of the river's flow. Standing at the edge and looking down into its roaring depths is an experience like no other.

Wildlife Spotting around Iguazu Falls

Surrounding the falls, the Iguazu National Park is a hotspot of biodiversity. Look out for coatis, capybaras, and howler monkeys along the park's numerous trails. And keep your eyes on the sky - you might just spot a toucan or parrot flaunting their vibrant plumage among the treetops.

Boat Excursions for an Up-Close Experience

For an unforgettable adventure, embark on a boat excursion that takes you directly into the misty spray at the base of the falls. You'll get an entirely new perspective on their scale and power - just be prepared to get wet!

Jujuy: Where Ancient Culture Meets Breathtaking Landscapes

Jujuy

Travel to the far north of Argentina and you'll find Jujuy , a destination that offers an intoxicating mix of indigenous culture, colonial history, and stunning natural beauty. For those backpacking in Argentina, Jujuy is a destination not to be missed.

Visiting Historical Sites in Jujuy

History buffs will be enthralled by Jujuy's numerous historical sites. The Pucará de Tilcara is an ancient fortress dating back over 900 years, offering an insight into the pre-Columbian era. The town of Humahuaca, with its well-preserved colonial architecture and the striking Monument to the Heroes of Independence, is another must-visit.

Natural Attractions of Jujuy

Jujuy's natural wonders are equally compelling. The Quebrada de Humahuaca, a dramatic valley etched into the landscape over millions of years, is awe-inspiring. Make sure to visit the Serranía de Hornocal, a range of mountains known for its multicolored peaks, providing an incredible backdrop for photos.

Local Gastronomy in Jujuy

No visit to Jujuy would be complete without sampling the local cuisine. The area is known for its Andean dishes, such as llama stews and tamales. Visit the vibrant local markets to try these and other local delicacies, providing a fitting end to your journey through Jujuy.

Los Glaciares National Park: A Frozen Wonderland

Los Glaciares National Park

No backpacking trip in Argentina would be complete without a visit to Los Glaciares National Park . This UNESCO World Heritage site is a paradise for nature lovers, brimming with dramatic mountain peaks, pristine lakes, and, of course, its namesake glaciers.

Hiking Adventures in Los Glaciares National Park

Lace up your boots and take to the trails in this awe-inspiring landscape. Choose from short, accessible hikes to more challenging routes that lead you past towering peaks, deep-blue lakes, and forests full of ancient trees. The Laguna Torre and Laguna de Los Tres trails, which offer breathtaking views of the famous peaks Cerro Torre and Fitz Roy, are among the most popular.

Wildlife Watching in Los Glaciares National Park

Los Glaciares is also a hotspot for wildlife enthusiasts. Keep an eye out for Andean condors soaring overhead, guanacos grazing on the steppe, and elusive pumas hiding in the undergrowth. Don't forget your binoculars - this park is a birdwatcher's dream, with over 100 species calling it home.

The Iceberg Experience in Los Glaciares National Park

For the ultimate glacial experience, embark on a boat tour on Lake Argentino. You'll get to witness the sheer majesty of the park's glaciers, like Upsala and Spegazzini, from the water. And if you're lucky, you might even see a glacier calving, where massive chunks of ice crash into the lake below - an unforgettable sight.

Mendoza: The Heart of Argentina's Wine Country

Mendoza

Next on our backpacking in Argentina guide is Mendoza , the vibrant heart of Argentina's wine country. This region is famed for its Malbec wines, its sunny climate, and its wealth of outdoor activities.

Wine Tours in Mendoza

No visit to Mendoza would be complete without sampling its world-class wines. Join a wine tour to discover the art of winemaking, stroll through lush vineyards, and, most importantly, taste a variety of exquisite wines. Some tours even offer the chance to blend your own wine - the perfect souvenir of your trip.

Adventure Activities in Mendoza

Besides its wines, Mendoza is also known for its array of outdoor pursuits. From white-water rafting in the Mendoza River to horseback riding in the Andean foothills, this region offers something for every adrenaline junkie. And for those who prefer a slower pace, the thermal baths at Cacheuta are the perfect place to relax and unwind.

Cultural Highlights of Mendoza

Downtown Mendoza has its own charms too. Wander around the lively plazas, admire the architecture, or visit one of the many museums. Don't miss the bustling Central Market, where you can sample local produce and traditional Argentinian dishes.

Patagonia: The Ultimate Wilderness

Patagonia

Our backpacking in Argentina adventure concludes with Patagonia , a land of unrivaled natural beauty that stretches across the southern tip of South America. With its diverse landscapes ranging from jagged mountain peaks to expansive ice fields, Patagonia offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

Trekking in Pristine Patagonia

Patagonia's vast, untouched wilderness is a trekker's dream. Trails weave through its many national parks, each offering its own unique set of landscapes and challenges. Whether you're trekking along the windswept plains of Tierra del Fuego or hiking the towering granite peaks of the Fitz Roy or hiking the towering granite peaks of the Fitz Roy Range, you'll find that Patagonia's trails offer unforgettable experiences. One of the most popular trails is the W Trek in Torres del Paine National Park , which takes you past azure lakes, colossal glaciers, and incredible mountain vistas.

Patagonia's Diverse Flora and Fauna

The sheer biodiversity of Patagonia is another of its many wonders. From Magellanic penguins and Andean condors to guanacos and elusive pumas, the array of wildlife is astonishing. The region is also home to unique and hardy plant species that have adapted to its harsh climate, adding another layer of intrigue to this stunning wilderness.

The Glacial Landscapes of Patagonia

Arguably the most iconic feature of Patagonia is its glaciers. The Perito Moreno in Los Glaciares National Park is one of the most accessible and regularly calves icebergs into the lake below. The lesser-known but equally stunning Viedma and Upsala Glaciers are also must-sees for those who wish to fully immerse themselves in the icy splendor of Patagonia.

The remarkable beauty and diverse landscapes of Patagonia provide the perfect conclusion to your backpacking in Argentina adventure. Whether you're a seasoned backpacker or a first-time traveler, the memories you make here will surely last a lifetime.

Salta: A Cultural Mosaic

Salta

As you continue your backpacking journey in Argentina, don't miss the chance to explore Salta , an eclectic city that effortlessly blends indigenous culture, colonial history, and natural beauty.

Architectural Wonders of Salta

Begin your exploration in the city's heart, where cobblestone streets lead to colonial buildings painted in vibrant hues. The Plaza 9 de Julio is a good starting point, surrounded by the grand Salta Cathedral, the Cabildo, and the Museum of High Altitude Archaeology, each telling a tale of Salta's rich heritage.

Outdoor Adventures in Salta

Beyond its historical core, Salta offers a variety of outdoor pursuits. The surrounding Lerma Valley is a haven for hikers and horseback riders, with trails winding through forests, rivers, and local villages. Or, for a unique perspective, take a ride on the Train to the Clouds, one of the world's highest railways, offering stunning views of the Andean mountains.

Local Cuisine and Market Tour in Salta

To truly understand Salta, you must sample its culinary delights. Indulge in empanadas salteñas, humita, and a glass of local Torrontés wine. Visit the bustling Mercado San Miguel, where local vendors sell everything from fresh produce to artisanal crafts, giving you a taste of the everyday life in Salta.

Ushuaia: The World's Southernmost City

Ushuaia

Lastly, as part of your backpacking in Argentina, journey to the end of the world — Ushuaia . Perched on the edge of the Earth, this city is a launchpad to Antarctica and a hub for wilderness adventures.

Exploring Ushuaia's Unique Geography

Ushuaia is a city like no other, set against the backdrop of the Martial mountain range and overlooking the Beagle Channel. Explore the Martial Glacier, visit the End of the World Museum, or just stroll through the city's streets, absorbing the unique blend of Patagonian culture and untouched wilderness.

Wildlife Tours in Ushuaia

Venture onto the Beagle Channel for a wildlife tour. Spot sea lions basking on the rocks, a variety of seabirds swooping over the waves, and perhaps even a glimpse of a Magellanic penguin. This is a wildlife experience like no other, set in the pristine wilderness at the end of the world.

Activities for Adventure Seekers in Ushuaia

Despite its remote location, Ushuaia offers plenty of adventures. Kayak along the Beagle Channel, hike in the Tierra del Fuego National Park, or take a dog-sledding trip in the winter. For the ultimate adventure, board a ship to Antarctica, following in the footsteps of the world's greatest explorers.

Every day in Ushuaia brings a new adventure, making it a fitting finale for any backpacking trip in Argentina. It truly is a place where both ends of the world meet.

Budget Travel Tips for Backpacking in Argentina

Budget Travel Tips

Embarking on a backpacking trip in Argentina is a thrilling adventure, but it's essential to have a few budget travel tips up your sleeve to make the most of your journey without breaking the bank.

Frugal Accommodation Choices

Staying at hostels is a popular choice for backpackers, providing a comfortable place to rest while also offering opportunities to connect with other travelers. In cities like Buenos Aires and Salta, you'll find a variety of hostels with shared or private rooms. For a more unique experience, consider camping in national parks or staying in rural guesthouses known as estancias.

Eating on a Shoestring Budget

Argentina's food scene is tantalizing, and enjoying it doesn't have to be costly. Empanadas and choripan are delicious street foods that you can find almost everywhere. Local markets also offer fresh produce and regional delicacies. If you're willing to cook, most hostels have communal kitchens, which can save you a significant amount.

Getting Around: Budget Transportation Tips

Argentina's size can make travel daunting, but there are budget-friendly ways to traverse the country. Long-distance buses, known as colectivos, are a cost-effective and comfortable option for overnight journeys. For shorter distances, consider shared taxis known as remises or even hitchhiking, which is relatively common in Patagonia.

Other Good Things Every Backpacker in Argentina Should Know

Finally, there are a few other essential things that every backpacker in Argentina should know to ensure a smooth and enjoyable adventure.

Understanding Local Customs and Etiquette

Argentines are known for their warm hospitality and vibrant culture. Understanding local customs, such as the importance of afternoon siesta hours in smaller towns, or the local etiquette around mate (a traditional caffeine-rich infused drink), will enrich your backpacking experience in Argentina.

Weather and Best Time to Visit Argentina

Argentina's vastness means the climate varies significantly. Generally, spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) are the best times to visit. These seasons offer moderate temperatures and fewer tourists. However, if you're visiting Patagonia or the Andean region, summer (December to February) might be more suitable.

Essential Packing List for Argentina

Packing the right gear is crucial for your backpacking trip. Essentials include a good-quality backpack, sturdy hiking boots, weather-appropriate clothing (rain jacket, layers for cold, sun protection), a reusable water bottle, and a Spanish phrasebook or app. Lastly, pack a sense of adventure, because backpacking in Argentina will be a journey of a lifetime.

More From Roadless Wonders

  • Exploring Paradise: 16 Best Places To Visit Costa Rica
  • Experience The 7 Best Hiking Trails In Patagonia For An Unforgettable Adventure
  • From Temples To Waterfalls: Best Places To Visit In Bali
  • Ultimate Ireland Travel Guide: 12 Stunning Destinations
  • Backpacking In Peru: 19 Stunning Destinations You Can’t Miss
  • Ultimate Guide To Backpacking In Iceland

There's no doubt that backpacking in Argentina presents an epic adventure filled with diverse landscapes, fascinating culture, and unforgettable experiences. From the roaring Iguazu Falls to the wild wilderness of Patagonia, from the bustling streets of Buenos Aires to the tranquil vineyards of Mendoza, every destination has something unique to offer. This guide has given you a glimpse of the 11 best destinations in Argentina, along with practical tips for budget travel and essential insights to help you navigate this beautiful country. So strap on your backpack, let your spirit of adventure guide you, and get ready to embark on a journey of a lifetime in Argentina.

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The BEST Mendoza Wine Tour: A Complete Guide

Mendoza is the heart of Argentina’s wine region and is renowned for its delicious Malbec wines.

Many connoisseurs from around the world, even from France where Malbec originated, visit this very region to experience a Medonza Wine Tour and to get a taste of Argentinian Malbec from the many different bodegas.

In saying that, Mendoza is not all just about the wine – it also boasts the surrounding Andes mountains including the highest peak on the American continent, large volcanoes, flowing rivers, thriving olive plantations, and cultural tradition.

As a surprise to most, I am a bit of a wine connoisseur myself and could not pass up the opportunity to spend a day in the vineyards, tasting the best Mendoza wines.

I have put together this Mendoza Wine Tour guide based on my own experience to give you an idea of what you can expect too.

mendoza argentina 10

Table of Contents

MENDOZA WINE TOURS

To get the most out of your visit to the best Mendoza wineries, I recommend booking a Mendoza Wine Tour with a reputable tour company.

I personally joined an 11-day tour with Tucan Travel covering the highlights of Chile, Argentina, and Brazil, which included a full day exploring the Mendoza wine region.

Click Here to see the full itinerary of the 11-Day Highlights of Chile, Argentina, and Brazil Tour.

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The BEST Backpack For Backpacking!

Osprey Backpacking

Less is more with the Atmos AG 50L , the newest arrival in the Osprey backpacking range!

From weekend explorations to month-long expeditions, this EPIC backpack is up to the task and will stand the test of time.

WHAT TO EXPECT ON THE MENDOZA WINE TOUR

Our day began with a hotel pick-up from Mendoza at around 9 am and we were greeted by our tour guide on board the minivan.

The first stop on the wine tour was the Sin Fin Winery (also known as Bodega Sin Fin) a short twenty-minute drive from Mendoza city.

Bodega Sin Fin is a family-run company dating back to 1975 when they planted their first-ever grapevines.

Sin Fin not only grows and produces wine but they are now known as one of the best locations for wine tasting in Mendoza!

Inside the winery, a lovely Sin Fin employee took us on a short guided tour around the factory and the cellar before sitting us down to start the tasting of their very own Sin Fin wines.

From white wines to red wines and of course the world-renowned Malbec, it was a great way to start the morning. It’s never too early for a drink, right?!

Find All → Hotels in Mendoza

mendoza argentina 11

THE OLIVE FARM

From here our tour continued to a nearby olive farm and olive oil factory.

Again, we were given a short tour of the factory explaining how they make olive oil, virgin olive oil, and extra virgin olive oil.

The entire process of olives being harvested, washed, and then pressed into oil is really quite impressive and something I had no knowledge of previously.

The best part was the free olive oil tasting on freshly baked bread at the end of the tour!

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LUNCHTIME ON THE TOUR

By now we were a mob of hungry heads and the tour continued from the olive farm to another gorgeous vineyard to have some food.

When we arrived I was in awe of the beautiful countryside that surrounded our lunch location, complemented by the Andes mountains in the backdrop!

A traditional Argentinian feast was dished up along with more complimentary wine tastings.

Feeling completely full and satisfied, and almost on the verge of napping, our group sat around chatting for some time as our food digested.

A stroll through the vineyards after lunch was an option for those who weren’t too stuffed.

I used this opportunity to fly my drone and get a birds-eye perspective of the Mendoza wine region.

The wine tour ended here, though we all bought a few bottles of wine to take back to the hotel and continued the fiesta!

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Take Your Photos & Videos To New Heights!

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The DJI Mini 3 Pro is the most affordable, user-friendly drone camera suitable for all levels!

This travel-sized drone captures 4K/60fps video, 48MP photo, and has 34 minutes flight time.

WHERE TO STAY IN MENDOZA

Mendoza has hundreds of accommodation options to choose from, so I have narrowed it down to the best places to stay to fit the needs of budget backpackers and luxury travelers.

See the list of accommodations below that I personally recommend.

Luxury:  Sheraton Mendoza Hotel

The 5-star Sheraton Hotel in Mendoza features a top-floor restaurant with 360-degree views of the city and Andes mountain ranges, an indoor swimming pool, a health club, free wifi, and breakfast is included.

The rooms are spacious, modern, stylish, and perfect for couples wishing to stretch their budget a little.

Mid Range:  Argentino Hotel

Centrally located, this 3-star hotel features a swimming pool, an outdoor terrace, and a restaurant.

The rooms are stylish, air-conditioned, and free wifi is included. A buffet breakfast is also available for all guests.

Budget:  Malbec Hostel Central

If hostels are your jam, then Malbec Central Hostel is your best pick. Close to the city center, this accommodation features an outdoor pool, modern rooms, and free wifi.

Choose from either a dorm room, single room, double room, triple room, or quadruple room. Perfect for solo travelers, or groups of friends looking for a cheap place to stay.

For all other places to stay in Mendoza, Click Here to search on booking.com

WHAT TO PACK FOR ARGENTINA

When visiting Argentina, here is a list of items I highly recommend bringing with you.

Must-Have Travel Essentials

Hidden money wallet.

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Keep your cash and other valuables safe with this anti-theft hidden money wallet!

Reusable Water Bottle

grayl geopress

The GRAYL GeoPress is the best reusable bottle that allows you to purify water from anywhere!

Travel Backpack

Nomatic 20L Bag

The Nomatic Travel Backpack has 20+ innovative features, perfect for everyday use!

Quick-Dry Travel Towel

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The most compact, lightweight, and quick-dry towel for traveling!

Portable PowerBank

anker powerbank

Keep your phone, laptop, and accessories charged while you’re on the go with the Anker PowerBank!

MORE ARGENTINA TRAVEL GUIDES

Looking for more awesome things to do in Argentina?!

I spent quite a bit of time in Argentina and have put together informative travel guides to help you plan the perfect trip!

EXPLORE MORE: ARGENTINA TRAVEL GUIDES

Final thoughts – mendoza wine tours.

If you have any questions about this wine tour in Mendoza, please leave me a comment below this post and I will get back to you as soon as I can.

For a quicker response, be sure to join Jonny Melon’s Travel Tribe on Facebook and post your questions or recommendations to our awesome community.

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TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or it’s your first trip overseas, here are some useful travel resources to help you kick-start your next adventure!

bookingcom

Search and book accommodation worldwide.

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Compare and book cheap flights to anywhere.

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Find tickets, tours, and experiences around the world.

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Book buses, trains, and transfers online in advance.

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Search all rental cars in your next destination.

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Need travel insurance for your next trip?

THANKS FOR READING

Hey friend, thanks for reading this guide!

Please know this post may contain affiliate links. When making a purchase through one of my links, I earn a small kickback at no extra cost to you and it’s a big help to keep the site up and running. Rest assured, I only promote products and services that I personally use and recommend.

Click here to find out how you can support the site organically .

Many thanks!

PIN IT FOR LATER

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Home » South America » Backpacking Travel Guide

Backpacking South America Travel Guide (TRAVEL TIPS • 2024)

So you are getting ready to travel South America, eh? Great call! 

Backpacking through South America is like learning to ride a bike without the training wheels. There is just the right amount of danger and curve balls to keep you alert, focused, and totally stoked on life.

With the exception of a handful of backpacker hotspots, South America is the wild west frontier of backpacking. This is the land of crazy parties, epic surfing, sprawling cities, and wild landscapes including the Andes and the Amazon jungle.

Above all else, South America is stunningly beautiful. Though challenging to navigate at times, it’s budget backpacker friendly, diverse, relatively safe, and one hell of a travel experience…

But South America is MASSIVE. Deciding where to go and how to plan travel to South America is a mind-boggling task. That’s where I come in, amigos. This South America travel guide will provide you with EVERYTHING you need to know to prepare for your trip through South America.

Here’s the full low-down on backpacking South America itinerary and routes, country profiles, tips and tricks for South America budget travel, and much more.

Lace up your bootstraps and prepare to have your travel inspiration skyrocket. We’re going on an adventure!

Group of travelers stopped on the roads of Bolivia

Why Go Backpacking in South America?

The South American continent is one of my favourite places on earth. It was always a place that mystified me: the traveller group was generally older and more mature. So when I got invited (by a sexy South American), I jumped at the chance.

It’s a place where I learned the art of budget travel , fell in love countless times, and had a multitude of life-changing experiences along the way. If you want to get off the beaten track whilst still having the option to meet plenty of other travellers, South America is the place to level up your backpacking skills and head on a real adventure…

Woman in Argentina smiling looking over La Cumbrecita

South America is one of the most diverse continents on earth. It is home to the world’s second-highest mountain range in the Andes, world-class surf beaches, the Amazon Basin, the world’s driest desert, huge plains of lush grassland, glaciers, and unique wildlife not found anywhere else on Earth…

Each country you visit whilst backpacking South America offers up the opportunity to experience the incredible natural and cultural forces unique to that region.

Backpacking South America is generally a cheap endeavour – although it’s not as cheap as Southeast Asia or India. There are some fairly expensive corners of South America that you should avoid if you’re travelling on a budget .

You will fall in love with South America (and maybe a person or two along the way). So let’s dive into some South America travel itineraries and backpacking routes for your trip.

Best Travel Itineraries for Backpacking South America

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When making a South America backpacking itinerary, remember that travel distances are HUGE, internal flights expensive, and sometimes you want to stay somewhere longer than anticipated.

backpackers walking next to the train tracks towards Machu Pichu.

So choose your South America backpacking route carefully. Unlike other continents, how much time you have really matters; you simply can’t do all of it.

If you only have 2 or 3 weeks for travelling South America, forget about seeing the whole continent. I recommend sticking to one country and devoting your energy to exploring it properly. 

In one month, you could explore some countries closer to each other. You could visit Bolivia and Lake Titicaca in Peru for example. It’s good to have room for spontaneity in your South America travel itinerary too.

2 Week South America Travel Itinerary – The West Coast Appetizer

backpackers travel and adventure mendoza

You’ll have to keep moving to make this itinerary happen in 2 weeks, but I believe in you!

Start your backpacking South America itinerary in Colombia by visiting Cartagena . After a few days, head to Santa Marta , the jump-off point for Minca – a charming mountain town – and Tayrona National Park.

Get a bit off the beaten path, and head east to Cabo de la Vela (where the desert meets the sea) and Punta Galinas , where you can feast on fresh seafood along the Caribbean coast. Doubling back to Cartagena , head to nearby Playa Blanca and Tolú (mangrove) before heading to Islas de San Bernardo (white-sanded islands).

Or you could start in Lima , Peru. Explore the city for a day or two before heading to the Nazca Lines , Arequipa , and Colca Canyon . 

Then head to Cusco in the Andes. Take a few days to get used to the altitude before setting off on a multi-day trek to Macchu Picchu.

Alternatively, start in Buenos Aires . Then you can head south to trek in Patagonia . In southern Argentina and Chile, you can do the world-famous Torres del Paine circuit . 2 weeks is cutting it fine but – if you hustle – you could pull it off.

In 2 weeks, you can get a good taste of Colombia, Ecuador , or Bolivia . Don’t miss out on the Salt Flats . 

1 Month South America Travel Itinerary – The Starter

backpackers travel and adventure mendoza

With 1 month, you can make an epic backpacking South America itinerary. If you want to explore more than one country in South America, you’re gonna need more than 3 weeks. 

For surf bums, you could easily spend a month heading beach to beach from Southern Peru all the way to Colombia , in 1 month. Or you could do 2 weeks in Argentina followed by 2 weeks of hiking in Chilean Patagonia . 

If it were me, larger countries like Argentina, Chile , and Brazil are better to explore with more than 1 month. You can do it but you will spend a long time on bus journeys, so I would just stick to one area. 

Southeast Brazil is a good choice for 1 month on a South America itinerary: travel from Rio de Janeiro all the way south to Florianópolis and hit up everything in between. Bear in mind that you’ll probably want to stay in Rio AND Floripa longer than you expect.

Highlights of this route include exploring the megapolis of São Paulo , idyllic getaways of Ilha Grande and Paraty , eco-friendly and laidback Curitiba , and the crazy nightclubs of Balneário Camboriú .

Or, you could fly into Ecuador and spend 3 weeks exploring here: stay at a great hostel in Guayaquil before heading to Montañita . In Montañita you can party and surf to your heart’s content. Head North towards Bahia de Caraquez and Canoa for surf towns that are more off the beaten path. 

Next head to the mountains, stopping first in Quito . There are some excellent treks in the Ecuadorian Andes .

If you have time, definitely hit up the Volcano Loop trail on the outskirts of Cotopaxi National Park . A trip to the jungle around Puyo is recommended as well. Then head for a week of trekking in Colombia .

3 Month South America Travel Itinerary – The Great South America Main Course

backpackers travel and adventure mendoza

3 months backpacking South America, eh? Hell yes!

I recommend flying into Lima, Peru unless you know you want to start in the north (Brazil or Colombia) or further south (Argentina or Chile). Explore Lima and the coast before heading to the Andes. There Machu Picchu awaits in all of its glory.

Definitely do a trek to the famous Inca city! (More on hiking in South America later). From here, you can either drop down on the other side of the Andes and explore the Amazon basin or you can head south to Bolivia and eventually Argentina and Patagonia .

Alternatively, you can slowly start making your way north via the Coast. You could spend a month (or more) in Ecuador, Colombia, or Brazil respectively.

Personally, I started off in Buenos Aires then went north to Brazil and Colombia . The distances were truly massive. I’m talking 30-hour bus rides (on comfortable buses I must say). 

Travelling in South America is never a quick affair, so plan your itinerary accordingly.

6 Month South America Travel Itinerary – The Full 3-Course Latin America

backpackers travel and adventure mendoza

Life has brought you to the fortunate crossroads of having 6 months to travel South America? Good on you! 

With a 6-month backpacking South America itinerary, you have the luxury of really being able to take your damn time. To see multiple countries, it’s a practical choice to begin your journey either in the north or the south to avoid backtracking.

With a 6 month itinerary, you can explore many South American countries in depth. I’ll be honest with you, the itinerary shown on the map is really fucking ambitious. But hopefully, it gives you an idea of what crossing this vast continent would look like.

Starting your journey in Rio de Janerio or São Paulo might be a bit of a rough landing, though you will be a primed bad-ass by the time it comes to move on to another country. Other options are starting with some days in Buenos Aires , in Argentina, and Chile, in the south.

You could be surfing it up on the coast of Ecuador one day, and be in the mountains of Peru several days (and many bus rides) later. I advise taking a chunk of your time to really explore and get off the beaten path in top destinations like Brazil , Colombia , and Bolivia .

Having 6 months or more to go backpacking truly means you have a total blank slate to work with. So get ready to write your own beautiful backpacking destiny!

Each country in South America has something unique and profoundly exciting for backpackers. But they also have some common themes: they are Spanish speaking (minus Portuguese in Brazil), they have stunning natural beauty, and some of the nicest people you will meet whilst travelling. So finding the best places to backpack in South America has a lot to do with your own interests.

Woman sat by the river in South America with her flip flops off

Maybe you’ll explore the epic snow-capped peaks of Patagonia in Argentina and Chile. Party with beautiful people at the Carnival in Brazil. 

Trek to the Lost City in Colombia. Experience the sun-drenched deserts of Bolivia and the colourful Rainbow Mountains of Peru.

Backpacking through South America truly is a life-changing journey through one of the planet’s most fascinating landmasses. When you visit South America, you can be sure that it will be some of the most fun you will have in your life.

Group of travellers looking the view of mountains and lakes in Neuquen, Argentina.

South America is a vast continent on the move. The number of people travelling to South America is increasing every year. Whilst the cost of living in South America remains quite low, each country requires a different budget for travellers.

Once you begin to discover a few of the South American countries, you will be entranced by the jaw-dropping landscapes, fascinating history, vibrant culture, and awesome food.

Let’s take a look at the countries that make backpacking in South America so damn special.

Backpacking Brazil

Brazil is, hands down, one of South America’s most dynamic countries. It’s all about the extremes. Whether it’s the parties, the people, or nature, the vibrations run through everything – and connect everyone.

Backpacking in Brazil offers up sick surf beaches, fun-loving locals, insane parties, and landscapes that would make even the most seasoned traveller say “no shit, mate, look at that!”

Of course, the Brazilian festival Carnival is legendary – and for good reason. Get your mind blown on the Brazilian side of  Iguaçu Falls , visit the Amazon , drink a Caipirinha on the beach! Plus Brazil’s home to big up-and-coming cities like Belo Horizonte, Curitiba, and Natale.

Traveller on the beach in Rio de Janeiro with mountains and Brazilian flags.

And when I say ‘extreme’, I mean extreme : Brazil is absolutely MASSIVE and covers nearly half (47%) of South America’s landmass! That should give you an idea of how big it is.

But, more importantly, it gives you a better idea of how much diversity Brazil has on offer. In fact, there’s a lot going for Brazil that you may not be aware of.

For example, trekking probably isn’t the first thing that pops into your mind when you think about backpacking through Brazil. It’s a shame because Brazil has truly gorgeous trails spread throughout the country. It’s also home to Iguazu, one of the most incredible waterfalls on Earth.

The best hiking opportunities are usually found in Brazil’s national parks  (parques nacionais ). Brazil has over 70 national parks and – in terms of beauty – these can contend with any other on Earth.

What to Know Before Visiting Brazil

Surfer holding surf board on the beach during sunset in Brazil.

  • Don’t miss out on… Florianopolis. The Brazilians favourite place to visit for a reason. It’s chilled, safe, and gorgeous. You plan to stay in Floripa for a week, it grabs you by the balls, and you get stuck for months.
  • Keep an eye out for… Travel distances. Don’t be fooled: they’re way longer than they seem on the map. Give yourself plenty of time to get from A to B.
  • The coolest hostel is… Hostel do Morro . In one of my favourite destinations in Brazil, this hostel is a true nature immersion. In the “mato”, with sea view and monkeys visiting. A true good vibes place!
  • The best food is found in… Belo Horizonte. There is an amazing energy to this place; everyone hangs out on the streets, eating and drinking at plastic tables, all night long.

Backpacking Colombia

Whilst South America has many countries that I consider to have the full package , Colombia is the most complete. It’s a relatively small country. So considering the scale of epic surf, neverending parties, untouched jungle, happening cities, and towering mountains, Colombia is a reason for backpackers to keep travelling!

Cali, Cartagena, Bogotá , and Medellín are a few major cities in Colombia where you can really let loose. Go and have some extraordinary conversations with the locals about life in Latin America and not taking life too seriously.

Man looking over vista in Medellin, Colombia

Is Colombia safe ? Perhaps your mum would love to know. Hell yes, it is !

As much as Colombianos are ready for the disassociation with Pablo Escobar, it’s hard not to mention the impact that he made on the country and the South American continent as a whole. But his reign of terror is over.

Modern-day Colombia couldn’t be more different from the days when narco-traffickers ruled the country. Visiting Medellín now vs 20 years ago is a COMPLETELY different experience. The Medellín of today is a great experience.

Colombia is for adventure junkies and nature lovers too. The northern terminus of the Andes Mountains ends here and you can take your treks into the deep jungle in Colombia’s National Parks .

What to Know Before Visiting Colombia

Colombia street view in Medellin, comuna 13 neighbourhood

  • Don’t miss out on… Carnival in Barranquilla. Most of the time, this industrial town is overlooked by travellers. But for one week of the year, this place goes NUTS.
  • Keep an eye out for… how difficult the trek to Cuidad Perdida is. It’s long, treacherous, and hot as shit, but absolutely worth the effort in the end. The Lost City is one of the best places to visit in South America.
  • The coolest hostel is… Viajero Santa Marta Hostel . Great location and has lazy and peaceful vibes. Amazing rooftop and activities to connect and meet other travelers.
  • The best food is found in… the local restaurants. Look for the menu del dia to feel like you’ll never need to eat again.

Backpacking Ecuador

Ecuador might be small but it certainly packs a punch. I spent 3 months backpacking in Ecuador and could easily spend many more.

The diversity is incredible and it’s a great place to experience Andean Highland culture. The people who live in the Andes have a distinct and ancient culture rooted in mountain life. They even speak another language called Quechua . It’s a relatively safe country , and isn’t ruined by mass tourism.

In addition to staying in colonial cities like Quito , Ecuador’s natural landscape is the biggest draw. You can spend weeks or months exploring the coast before heading to the mountains and vice versa. Towering over the shore, volcanoes, waterfalls, and massive snow-capped mountains all make incredible trekking routes.

Surfing reigns supreme on the Ecuadorian coast. It attracts surfers from all over the globe. Even if you’re a beginner, it’s a great place to catch your first waves. Towns like  Montañita and Canoa are famous surf beaches and party hotspots.

Street with colorful colonial houses in Quito

If you have some extra cash in your budget, you can visit The Galápagos Islands . But be warned – this is not a cheap endeavour, especially for excursions like diving (though it is AWESOME). So prepare yourself to shell out some cash!

Then there is the Amazon Basin of Ecuador. The Amazon region is what helps make Ecuador one of the most biologically diverse places on earth. The Amazon is best explored by boat with a local guide and is bound to be the adventure of a lifetime!

What to Know Before Visiting Ecuador

Surf board and coconut at the beach in Ecuador coast.

  • Don’t miss out on… exploring the highlands and Cotopaxi National Park. Easily accessed from Quito and totally epic.
  • You know what’s overrated … Montañita. It’s not all it use to be and is mostly catered to foreigners who want to get wasted and high. If you want real Ecuadorian culture, there are better places nearby.
  • The coolest hostel is… Casa del Sol . Relaxed vibe at a few steps from the beach. Close enough to go party and far enough to have a good sleep. THE place for yoga and Surf.
  • The best food is found in… the small almuerzo (lunch) cafes found across the country.

Backpacking Peru

Ah Peru. Backpacking Peru is the essence of travelling in South America. Though tourism has spiked in Peru in recent years, there is still plenty of magic to be found here.

The cost of backpacking Peru is a little higher than you might expect. Expect to pay between $30-40 USD a day whilst travelling here. (But more about the cost of backpacking South America later.)

Peru has a super long coastline dotted with prime surf beaches and scuba diving sites. In the Andes lies a whole other form of beauty.

I mean, who isn’t aware of Machu Picchu and hiking the Inca Trail ? Besides the obvious, there is much, much more to the Peruvian Andes than Machu Picchu. Although, you still have to go there!

Peru has some truly fascinating colonial cities as well, including Cuenca and Cuzco, which is the gateway city to Machu Picchu. The off-the-beaten-path potential in Peru is enormous.

Backpackers relaxing on cuzco main square while local lady pass by.

Check out the Rainbow Mountains to see nature at its most colourful. Hike the majestic  Cordillera Huayhuash . Explore Colca Canyon and sleep out under a billion stars.

If you want a truly magical experience, there are many eco-lodges in Peru that are nestled in the best nature spots, from the Amazon jungle to the Andes mountain range.

Wherever you decide to travel in Peru, be sure that it will be a highlight of your South America backpacking adventure.

What to Know Before Visiting Peru

Backpacker looking at the old city of Machu Picchu on a rainy day.

  • Don’t miss out on… a motorcycle journey through the Sacred Valley outside Cuzco. It’s definitely worth staying in Cuzco a little longer for this.
  • You know what’s overrated… the Inca Trail. Go for the less-trod Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu instead.
  • The coolest hostel is… Banana’s Adventure Hostel . In an unreal location (an oasis in a desert) this is a sociable and relaxed vibes hostel. With a great rooftop plus a lovely garden with hammocks, and an outdoor pool.
  • The best food is found in… Lima. This city is full of cafes, local lunch spots, and street food vendors. The best are in Barranco and Miraflores. Pig out on ceviche !

Backpacking Bolivia

Backpacking in Bolivia offers up a glimpse of what South America was like 30 years ago. It’s a country looking to the future in many ways whilst still having one foot firmly rooted in the tradition of the past.

Expect super friendly locals, dramatic desert and mountain landscapes, and the kind of low prices which make the dirtbag within us very happy. You could easily get by on $20-25 a day here, and even less by roughing it a bit.

Bolivia is home to plenty of adrenaline-pumping activities including the Road of Death , which, in essence, is a road down through the mountains in which people ride bicycles to the bottom at top speed. The ride goes on for at least 30 kilometres and it is straight down. Can you guess why it’s called the Road of Death yet?

Aside from the high-risk adventure activities, Bolivia is safe for the most part as well.

Backpackers traveling in Bolivia and the view of Lake Titicaca on the back.

World-class trekking is abundant in the Bolivian Andes. If you love to hike, all the more reason to visit Bolivia. Bring along a good sleeping bag as temperatures can plummet at night.

La Paz has the best hostels (particularly for partiers) and is a cool city to base yourself in. Lake Titicaca is breathtaking, however, it has become far too touristy – I personally can’t deal with that many people taking selfies. I don’t blame the locals as they need to make a living. Just the way it has been done is unfortunate.

The Salt Flats are also cool AF. Okay, admittedly it’s pretty touristy too, but it’s still worth a visit.

What to Know Before Visiting Bolivia

Backpackers in Uyuni salt flats (salar de Uyuni).

  • Don’t miss out on… the Salar de Uyuni. Yes, everyone who comes to Bolivia does this and, yes, it’s touristy. Regardless, it’s still in-fuckin-credible.
  • Keep an eye out for… the altitude. Some people fly directly to La Paz from sea level and get sick almost immediately. At 3640 meters, La Paz is the highest major city in the world.
  • The coolest hostel is… Wild Rover La Paz . A dynamic and festive hostel. The perfect place to start your Bolivian experience connecting with other travellers. Great location in the central area.
  • The best food is found in… La Paz. This is the epicenter of Bolivia’s newly emerging food culture.

Backpacking Chile

There are no half measures while Backpacking Chile. From trekking through gorgeous glacial national parks to exploring the martian bone-dry Atacama desert , you’re all in for one hell of an experience.

Backpackers hitchhiking on the road in atacama desert, Chile.

There are 36 National Parks in Chile ; all of them are beautiful and unique in their own way. Chile is also home to Easter Island , one of the most mysterious places on the planet.

Like Argentina, Chilean Patagonia is a paradise for trekkers and adventure types – though it does take some effort to reach the places you want to go trekking in. That said, the journey is well worth it; experiencing some of the planets last truly wild places is an indescribable feeling that you can only understand by doing it!

Most backpackers will start their backpacking journey in Santiago. But you can come to Chile from one of its borders in the South (as I did).

Oh yeah, one more thing: Chilean wine is cheap and it is damn good! Do you need more reasons?

What to Know Before Visiting Chile

Person hugging an araucaria tree, also known as monkey puzzle tree, in the Andes mountains in Chile.

  • Don’t miss out on… Patagonia, and not just the usual spots. Chilean Patagonia is vastly unexplored, especially the fjords. Look out for whales, dolphins, penguins, and elephant seals.
  • Keep an eye out for… fire bans in Torres del Paine. A lot of nature has been threatened because of dickhead backpackers using gas burners, despite warnings.
  • The coolest hostel is… MaPatagonia Hostel . Near a beautiful lake, this place has what you need. Kitchen facilities, a nice big garden, some cats, and a jacuzzi! There is also a fireplace for those cold nights.
  • The best food is found in… Santiago. Staying in Santiago will unlock the most culinary options, including the cheap street food stalls.

Backpacking Argentina

Viva Argentina!

Backpacking Argentina is one for the ages. Welcome to the land of wine, excessive meat, football, tango, incredibly passionate people, and the final frontier – Patagonia.

Argentina is an immense country with very distinct regions. Eat to your heart’s content, party harder than you ever have before, and fall deeply in love.

You’ll probably land in Buenos Aires , arguably the cultural capital of all of South America.

Plaza de Mayo in Buenos Aires is the place where people protest in front of the government house.

Unquestionably, you’re going to find incredible hostels in Buenos Aires and reasons to stay. But don’t stay too long!

Rosario and Cordoba are cities like Buenos Aires but, in my opinion, better. They’re a perfect place to head to if you want to steer clear of the heavily populated capital.  Mendoza is the wine region home to the “best wine in the world” (according to Argentinos).

Further south lies Patagonia : one of my favourite places on Earth, and home to many Argentinian National Parks . Patagonia is a truly expansive, desolate wilderness area where the weather is harsh and civilization is few and far between.

Trek mountains and glaciers, or sea kayak around them,. There, you could go days without seeing many (if any) backpackers! Now THAT’S the dream.

Staying at an Argentine mountain hut (refugio) is a wonderful experience not to be missed. Few who travel to Argentina manage to make it as far as  Tierra del Fuego (the Land of Fire). Visit one of the most dramatic places in Argentina with its long summer days and epic arctic landscapes.

Speaking of the arctic, you can arrange trips to Antarctica from Ushuaia ! This would be the adventure of a lifetime but it’s by no means cheap.

What to Know Before Visiting Argentina

Argentinian asador grilling meat topless.

  • Don’t miss out on… El Chaltén, which is the base for seeing some of the most dramatic peaks on Earth: Cerro Torre and Fitz Roy.
  • You know what’s overrated… La Boca in Buenos Aires. These much-hyped multi-coloured houses are pretty rundown and actually quite dangerous, I strongly suggest you avoid it. The whole area feels like a tourist trap. There are much better things to do in Buenos Aires .
  • The coolest hostel is… America del Sur Hostel (El Calafate). Cozy, super social, and with an insane view of the lake, the town, and beautiful sunsets. Great place to chill, and work (if you need to).
  • The best food is found in… your neighbour’s personal asado . Nothing beats grilling grade-A Argentinian beef with some locals.
  • The official exchange rate is NOT THE EXCHANGE RATE . Because of the fluctating exchange rate, many of the locals withdraw their cash by using what is referred to as a “blue dollar rate” from Western Union. This way gives you 50% more pesos than withdrawing pesos from an ATM or exchanging currency.

Backpacking Uruguay

Not many travellers end up backpacking in Uruguay. There are a few reasons why:

  • It’s small
  • It’s out of the way
  • There’s not a ton to do

All of the above are true to some extent: Uruguay is not overflowing with adventurous activities or jaw-dropping sights. But let me tell you, they have some of the best quality of living in South America.

One of the perks about Uruguay is you don’t HAVE to do anything here. People are friendly and, compared to some chaos you find in other areas of the continent, it’s pretty chill. The beautiful coast is the perfect place to get away from the usual backpacking South America route and to avoid traveller’s burnout .

Two guys fishing and drinking mate during sunset next to the river.

Outside of Montevideo , there are nice beach towns worth crashing at; Punta del Diablo is the quintessential lazy surfer town. Punta del Este is fun in the summer if you like partying. Colonia del Sacramento is an old colonial outpost and UNESCO heritage – although it is admittedly more of a day trip rather than a base.

Oh but here’s the kicker: weed is legalised. Yes, Uruguay is famous for allowing the smoking of the devil’s lettuce. And the quality of it is surprisingly good.

Lots of locals keep a weed garden on their balconies. Perhaps your hostel in Montevideo will have one?

Head to Uruguay if you want to chill out and do your own thing. It’s easy to travel to Brazil and Argentina from there too.

What to Know Before Visiting Uruguay

uruguay  Colonia del Sacramento

  • Don’t miss out on… Punta del Diablo. This is laid-back surfer town evades most backpackers. It is arguably one of the best beach towns in South America.
  • You know what’s overrated… Punta del Este. This place literally exists for the sake of Argentinians on holiday. In the off-season, it’s empty.
  • The coolest hostel is… La Brújula Hostel . It’s near the beach, eco-friendly, has a family vibe, and is great to meet new people. This is a gem next to the sea.
  • The best food is found in… Montevideo. Can’t beat a giant chivito after you’ve got the munchies!

Backpacking Venezuela

Venezuela is a truly incredible country. With towering mountains, steaming forests, endless beaches , and just enough danger to keep you on your toes, this country is every budding adventurer’s dream destination.

A Disclaimer on Visiting Venezuela

Unfortunately, due to the political situation in Venezuela , The Broke Backpacker absolutely  does not condone visiting the country right now . It is simply not safe and it would be irresponsible to even attempt to Venezuela at present.

Unless you somehow have absolutely  solid and trustworthy contacts on the ground , Venezuela is not the place to travel for the foreseeable future. We do not have any contacts to give out.

That being said, there are many team members at The Broke Backpacker that hold a special place for Venezuela in their hearts. For this reason, we are leaving this information available to you, our readers, as an homage to a country we love. We can’t wait for the day that it will be safe to visit again.

Backpacking Venezuela has a truly terrible reputation. Don’t get me wrong, travelling Venezuela has been dangerous in recent years: this is a country where you need to keep both eyes on your gear, watch who you’re with, and be on the lookout for iffy situations before they get the chance to rear their ugly head.

Backpacking in Venezuela is, in my opinion, one of the last great adventures out there. Plus it’s one of the cheapest countries in the world to backpack in.

backpackers travel and adventure mendoza

Venezuela is a mysterious country. It attracts adventurers looking for a raw adventure.

It’s a country yet to be polluted by heavy tourism with incredible landscapes of mountains, forests, lakes, and caves. It is a kind of Shangri-La for adventurers and extreme sports lovers.

A South American backpacking trip to Venezuela is getting into the wild. To feel like the old explorers, Venezuela will not disappoint you. But backpacking Venezuela is not for the faint-hearted: this is a veteran explorer country.

What to Know Before Visiting Venezuela

Venezuelan flag painted on a wall and bars with FREE VENEZUELA written above

  • Don’t miss out on… Mt. Roraima – the highest tabletop mountain in the world; an incredible place to explore. Sometimes you feel like you’re walking on an island in the sky.
  • Keep an eye out for… the seasons when visiting Angel Falls. When it’s dry, the falls are actually quite weak (it’s more like a trickle).
  • The coolest hostel is… El Sofá Caracas . Safe, quiet, cozy place in the big city. You’ll feel at home instantly. And they have a unique boat pool to chill when it gets too hot.
  • The best food is found in… the buffet places where you pay by the weight of your plate. A little goes a long way here and you won’t be disappointed!

Getting Off the Beaten Path in South America

South America is totally full of wild places, tiny villages, far-flung settlements, lonesome valleys, sparsely inhabited jungle… Point being, there are plenty of great places to get off the beaten path . With a little motivation, you may well find yourself cutting your own path and writing your own backpacking destiny, one adventure at a time.

Backpacker hitchhiking on route in South America desert.

Explore the national park systems of South America as much as you can. Investigate the little interesting-looking food stalls where all the locals are queuing up.

Don’t rely on a guidebook of popular places. In South America, those tiny towns in the middle of nowhere are where the real culture is, and the real adventures. All you need is a bus ticket…

Aether Backpack

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

You can make your South America backpacking route totally unique. No matter what things you get up to, they’re going to leave a big print on your heart. But here are some things I definitely recommend considering planning for your itinerary .

1. Explore Patagonia

Patagonia is still one of the last untouched wildernesses on the planet. Not everyone gets to experience this in their lifetime! In addition to the usual superlative locations, like Cerro Torre and Torres del Paine, there are heaps to discover off-trail.

laguna fitz roy patagonia argentina

2. Party hard at Carnival

It’s the biggest party on the planet! Grab yo’ body paint, yo’ finest feathers, whatever else you can get your hands on, and join the festivities!

You won’t ever forget the time you spent Carnival in South America. The carnivals in Bahia, Rio, and Barranquilla are particularly good.

3. Explore the Salts Flats of Uyuni

It’s one of the most unique places on the planet and a highlight of any South America backpacking trip. Get ready to be wowed by this alien landscape.

I know broke backpackers usually cringe hard at the idea of an organised tour (because I’m one of them) but the Salt Flats is one that’s really worth shelling out for.

Group of travelers in Uyuni flat salt tour on top of the truck.

4. Find your own secret beaches

It wouldn’t be a proper backpacking South America itinerary without some beach time! Every kind of beach imaginable is found on the continent.

From tropical slices in Brazil to surfer’s paradises in Ecuador to even fjords in Chile, you won’t be lacking in choices. There are plenty of them secret spots that make those magical days. Take a beer, bring your mates, get busy.

backpackers travel and adventure mendoza

5. Check out Medellín

Medellín is one of the most popular cities to visit in South America right now. The choice between Medellín or Bogota has never been easier.

It’s fun, safe, comfortable, and (most impressively) completely different than it was before. Medellín has shed its violent past and is ready to host the next wave of backpackers.

backpackers travel and adventure mendoza

6. Visit Machu Picchu

I mean, you’re reading a backpacking South America guide: I know you already know about this one. It is the place that attracts most people to visit South America… but I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t worth visiting.

You can hike the Inca Trail like everyone else. But if you want to visit Machu Picchu in an alternative way, try one of the other Inca trails like Salkantay Trek.

A group of backpackers walking the inca trail to Machu Picchu.

7. Hike in the Andes

The Andes are one of the greatest mountain chains in the world, known mostly for hosting the aforementioned Machu Picchu and the gargantuan Aconcagua. But there is more to these mountains than just these popular destinations: the highlands of Ecuador, Cordillera Huayhush in Peru, the Cordillera Real in Bolivia are all stunning. Even Colombia gets a slice of the pie at Cocuy National Park.

Person trekking to the top of the Andes.

8. A South American

Hey, most backpackers will vouch for love and sex on the road being something memorable to take part in…

They love, and they love passionately. And the sex… well, maybe you’ll find out.

9. Get “stuck” somewhere

South America is full of sticky places AKA places where you get stuck for months on end. Florianópolis, La Paz, Medellín, Mancora… All of these locations start off as a simple stop on your South America backpacking route but turn into temporary homes.

Don’t fight it! Find your sticky place and stay awhile.

backpackers travel and adventure mendoza

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

South America has a wide range of budget accommodation options for backpackers. Airbnbs are fantastic for private rooms if you’re travelling as a couple or as a group.

For solo travellers, when you are not passing the night from the comfort of your tent in the Andes or with a Couchsurfing host , you’ll likely be booking hostels.

Backpacker volunteer house in South America with natural roof

Whether you just need a place to lay your head or a spot to meet fellow backpackers like yourself, hostel life is clearly where it’s at… In fact, I love South American hostels, even travelling with my partner, you get perks in a hostel that you don’t get in a hotel or Airbnb.

I’ve had some of the best nights of my life in them and met some of the best people in my life. The South American countries are home to some of the best hostels in the world .

  • Best Hostels in Sao Paulo
  • Best Hostels in Cusco
  • Best Hostels in Cartagena
  • Best Hostels in Mendoza
  • Best Hostels in Lima
  • Best Hostels in Medellin
  • Best Hostels in Quito
  • Best Hostels in Salvador de Bahia
  • Best Hostels in Santiago
  • Best Hostels in Valparaiso

Insider tip: If you want to see all your hostel options to visitbackp South America, Booking.com is the perfect one-stop-shop to book hostels. You can even filter your personal travel needs to find the perfect place for you.

It is the common belief that backpacking in South America is dirt cheap. In some places this is true, but it doesn’t go for the entire continent.

But fear not! Travelling South America on a budget can definitely be done.

Due to the nature of Patagonia being one of the most remote areas on earth, expect higher travel costs than the rest of South America. Peru also takes some navigating in order to travel on a tight budget.

Brazil is one of the most expensive countries in South America. The cost of living in Brazil is higher and it is notorious for jacking up accommodation prices during the high season.

Rio de Janeiro view from top. Buildings and coastline beach near city.

With a few travel tips up your sleeve, you will save a ton of money and have the time of your life. Bring your  haggle game  whilst backpacking through Latin America to ensure you get the best possible price for things, including accommodation. South Americans love smooth talkers so keep it playful but don’t get too cheeky.

Taking long-distance buses, buying beer and drugs, paying entrance fees to national parks… these things add up fast. But sometimes you have to shell out the dough in order to do the things you want. Overnight buses are a good way to save some money.

Remember to always leave a little extra wiggle room in your budget so you can go scuba diving or go on a trek that you have been dreaming about!

Daily Budgets for South America

Here is a breakdown of what you can expect to pay on a daily basis on a backpacking South America trip…

Travel Tips for Broke Backpackers in South America

Hey, all those dollaridoodles add up to more fun times. So saving whatever you can on your journey means you can be on the journey… for longer. So here are a few budget travel tips for South America :

Camping tent set in Brazil in nature with trees around.

  • Camp : With plenty of untouched beaches, forests, stunning countryside, and far-flung jungle, South America is a great place to carry a good backpacking tent . Camping saves you money and can help you get off of the beaten path.
  • Cook your own food: Travel with a  portable backpacking stove  and cook your own food to save some serious cash whilst backpacking across South America. If you plan to do some overnight hiking trips or camping on the beach, having a backpacking stove will be a great asset.
  • Haggle:  Haggle as much as you can. You can always get a better price for things, especially while in local markets. Learning Spanish will go a long way!
  • Couchsurf:  South Americans are awesome. Get to know some! Check out Couchsurfing to make some real friendships and see the real continent. When using Couchsurfing, be sure to send personalized messages to your potential host. A generic copy-and-paste message is much more likely to get turned down. Make yourself stand out.
  • Hitchhike:  Although some countries are friendlier than others, hitchhiking across South America is common practice, so you won’t struggle too much to find a ride. Speaking at least a little Spanish will go a long way though. You want to explain exactly what you’re doing and where you want to go.

Why Should You Travel to South America with a Water Bottle?

Plastic washes up on even the most pristine places… So do your part and keep the Big Blue beautiful!

You aren’t going to save the world overnight, but together we CAN make a difference. I hope you become more inspired to continue being a responsible traveller .

Plus, now you won’t be buying overpriced bottles of water either! Travel with a filtered water bottle instead and never waste a cent nor a turtle’s life again.

grayl geopress filter bottle

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

You know by now that we are talking about an enormous amount of land with regards to the South American continent. Countries in South America near the Equator do not experience distinct seasons. As you start to head south you will find the seasons to be the opposite of what they are in the Northern Hemisphere i.e. winter in June.

Patagonia experiences bitterly cold and windy winters. I do not advise travelling there during the winter unless you are a serious mountaineer and have all the right gear.

Group of people on a rainy day in Machu Picchu.

Dry season depends on the country. Generally, the cooler months from June to September are the driest in the coastal areas. In the Amazon – given that it is the world’s biggest rainforest – is wet pretty much all year. The Andes are the driest from April – November.

High season for all countries is, without a doubt, from December – February. This is due to holidays occurring over that time and it is also the time when many gringos and locals alike take their holidays. Backpacking in the low or shoulder seasons will definitely make for a cheaper trip, especially with regards to accommodation.

Best Time to Visit – Country Breakdown

Here are the best times to visit South America broken down by country!

Best Months to Travel: September – April

What’s the climate in Brazil like? 

In the south, the hot, wet summer season runs from November – March. In the north, the rainy season is from April – August. In the Amazon, it rains pretty much all year.

If you want to visit during the festival season though, September-March is best.

Best Months to Travel: November – March

What’s the climate in Colombia like?

Generally speaking, travellers should visit Cartagena and the Caribbean coast between November and March when the weather is dry. The rest of the country is good year-round. Bogota, Cali, and Medellin are always pleasant weather-wise.

Best Months to Travel: March – May, September – November

What’s the climate in Ecuador and Peru like? 

Lots and lots of micro-climates in the Ecuador Peru region. But there are some general trends:

  • The highlands/Andes are dry from May – September. These are the best months for hiking and visiting Machu Picchu.
  • The coast is warm and dry from December – May. This is the best time for the Galápagos.
  • The Amazon is always wet and humid as shit.
  • The south of Peru is much drier than the north, and Ecuador for that matter.

You’ll need to plan your trip carefully around what you want to see and do.

Best Months to Travel: May – October

What’s the climate in Bolivia like?

The winter season (May – October) is also its dry season, and the best time to visit Bolivia. This means that nights can be very cold, especially when you’re at higher altitudes. Although Bolivia is generally drier than its neighbours, it stills gets dumped on in the wet, summer season.

Best Months to Travel: March – April, October – November

What’s the climate in Chile like? 

Summers in Chile are generally the high season. That being said, this may not be the best time to visit. Prices are at their highest, the Atacama Desert is a furnace, and the winds are VERY strong in Patagonia.

Like almost anywhere, the shoulder months (October – November & March – April) are better.

Best Months to Travel:  October – April.

What’s the climate in Argentina and Uruguay like?

Summer for most of the country is from December – February. In the north, the summers can see rain and temperatures that soar to almost unbearable. In the south and Patagonia, summers are dry(ish) and pleasant.

The winters, obviously, are extremely cold in the south. Whereas the north generally has pretty mild winters.

What to Pack for South America

Travelling through South America is a lot easier if you have the right gear. A thorough backpacking South America packing list goes a long way – literally.

On every adventure, there are 6 things I never go travelling without:

Earplugs

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

nomatic_laundry_bag

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

sea to summit towel

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Monopoly Card Game

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Grayl GeoPress Water Filter and Purifier Bottle

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

South America IS a safe place to go backpacking. Is backpacking in South America safe all the time? 

Hell no. But nowhere in the world is safe 100% of the time. Does that mean we let it stop us?

Hell no. 

In recent years, security in South America is increasing. Using the common sense safety rules of backpacking is usually enough here. 

The thing with South America is understanding your surroundings and self-awareness. Coordinating your safety in Rio de Janeiro is completely different than hiking the Inca Trail. 

Robberies are rare and could happen to anyone – in any country. Sometimes people in desperate circumstances are forced to do bad things. They see a foreigner and they see a chance to temporarily relieve the stress of their situation. 

Odds are, you should be just fine. If ever you run into a hold-up situation just give them what they want. 

Your iPhone and wallet aren’t worth dying over, ever! But it’s worth hiding your money well just in case .

Political wobbles are pretty common. Due to the political situation in Venezuela right now, this is probably the most dangerous country in Latin America. I hate to say it but the situation is what it is.

In general, being out late, drunk, and/or alone is a recipe for trouble. Always take a taxi home at night, even in a group.

Do know which neighbourhoods you should avoid too, especially in major cities – even during the daytime. Ask the locals which these are. There’s no real reason to head into these areas anyway, but it’s worth noting so you don’t stumble into the wrong places.

  • Is Peru Safe?
  • Is Argentina Safe?
  • Is Chile Safe?
  • Is Brazil Safe?

Sex, Drugs, and Rock n’ Roll in South America

South Americans love to party! They start the party late and they don’t stop until the sun is way up.

Of course, Brazil is very famous for Carnival AKA the biggest party on the planet . But it’s a big deal in most South American countries – so you’ll find great parties everywhere.

The backpacker circuit is notoriously rowdy. Traveller hubs like Cusco, Buenos Aires, Montañita, Mancora, La Paz, and Medellín are legendary for their nightlife.

It is very easy to meet people, stay up all night, and fall in love with a sexy South American. Much of the continent is LGBTQ+ traveller friendly too!

People drinking from a bottle at the club during a party night.

Alcohol is freely available, freely consumed, and good quality too. I’m telling you, I’ve had beer in South America which puts Germany to shame.

South America is stoner-friendly too! Weed is legal or decriminalized for recreational use in many places – some countries are more relaxed than others. It’s best to ask the locals how it’s currently being handled where you are.

Cocaine is just about everywhere; particularly in Colombia, Peru, and Bolivia. But be aware, this isn’t the stuff you find back home – it’s much purer. One line is enough to keep you up all night.

To find drugs on the road, just ask a local to help you. Don’t go out alone looking to score in strange places and don’t give cops a reason to shake you down.

Ayahuasca retreats are gaining popularity as well. But remember, it is a ceremonial spiritual medicine of indigenous people. If you do want to try it, make sure you’re doing it with a real shaman, for real reasons; it’s not like acid and not a drug just to get mindless with.

Staying Healthy in South America

Travellers should be properly vaccinated before backpacking in South America. Consult a medical professional before travelling about which shots you should get.

You should have all the usual travel vaccinations before heading out: hepatitis A & B, typhoid, tetanus, etc. Rabies is also recommended particularly if you’re going to the rural areas or parts of the jungle. You don’t want to mess around with that one because it can be really nasty.

Best way to avoid mosquitos anywhere. A mosquito net will help you sleep weel.

It is worth checking if you need the Yellow fever vaccine before entering some countries. In some places, it is only recommended.

It’s also worth noting that in most places in South America, the water isn’t fit for consumption. The best travel water bottles have a filter.

Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting South America

Travelling without insurance in South America is risky. I broke my back in Brazil and will be happy to tell you why GOOD travel insurance is so important.

So consider getting travel insurance sorted before you head off on an adventure. You don’t want to be struck with a big, unexpected bill, or, worse, to put your health at risk.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

backpackers travel and adventure mendoza

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Where you will start your trip will be determined by what backpacking route you have chosen. Obviously, if you plan to tackle a specific country, the capital city of that country is a popular starting point and – usually – the logical option.

backpackers travel and adventure mendoza

South America is not the cheapest country to fly to, but you can sometimes bag a cheap direct flight from another major airport. It’s pretty expensive to fly within it too. Unless you are coming by boat to Colombia via the San Blas Islands, you will certainly be arriving by plane.

São Paulo, Lima, Buenos Aires, Santiago, and Rio de Janeiro are all major hubs for South America. Compare the prices between these top destinations, and base your South America itinerary from there.

Entry Requirements for South America

Good news everyone! Most South American nations DO NOT require a visa to visit! This applies to those travelling from the USA, UK, EU, Australia, and most other Western nations.

This is a positive trend in the last few years. A few years ago, travellers sometimes had to apply for (expensive) visas to enter countries like Argentina and Brazil. Luckily, this is no longer the case .

Once you’ve entered the country, you can remain for a period of 90 days visa-free. Extensions are possible but these vary on a country-by-country basis. Most South American governments do not take kindly to people who overstay.

Of course, ALWAYS double-check visa policies before travelling .

City Bus. Local Bus. Long-distance bus. Overnight bus.

That’s right. Buses are the most economical way of getting around South America. Every major capital has buses going to the far reaches of the country.

Two backpackers eating and drinking while traveling by bus.

Local buses are typically super cheap. You can book online but the bus stations are organised really well too.

Taxis are an option within cities and sometimes Uber too, depending on the city. If you opt for a taxi ride, make sure they are legit, set the price beforehand, and haggle the shit out of the driver without being rude.

Flights between countries in South America can be expensive. Internal flights within the country aren’t the cheapest either, though they are cheaper if you buy them while you’re inside the country (you’ll save money on taxes).

As a general rule when backpacking, cheap travel is slow travel . Buses can be slow but as you will be taking many if you are backpacking South America long term, you want to go for the cheapest option.

If you want to go full Che Guevara style you can travel by motorbike pretty easily (and cheaply) in most places in South America. I recommend that you have some experience riding motorbikes before you even think about sauntering into a capital city or down a winding road in the Andes. If you do go the motorcycle route you can be sure that it will be the ride of your life.

Hitchhiking in South America

Travelling by hitchhiking is always an option. Your success will greatly depend on the area and the country; I wouldn’t recommend hitchhiking in a major city or at night.

Hitchhikers aren’t that common in countries like Colombia, mainly due to paranoia about the security situation in the country. Not everyone here is a drug lord that wants to kidnap you for ransom money. You can hitchhike throughout Colombia AND it’s such an awesome experience!

Backpacker hitchhiking in the route with a sign.

Rural areas of South America are especially impacted by high rates of poverty. Expecting free rides from folks with limited means isn’t morally fantastic. That said, even if you offer the driver a few bucks, it could very well end up being cheaper (and more rewarding) than taking the bus.

I would never assume that the ride is free initially. Always ask to avoid having an awkward scenario in which the driver who picked you up is demanding an unexpected fee. This is when learning Spanish comes in very handy.

Onwards Travel From South America

Your only options for leaving the continent are by boat or by plane. Most likely you will fly out of the country where you are finishing your trip if it makes sense and is the cheapest option. Try to book your flights in advance in order to find the best flight deals .

Two girls walking towards a plane at sunset in Mexico

It is technically possible to cross the Darien Gap to Panama overland. Rumour has it that you can hire a guide for quite a bit of money and cross the Darien on foot.

In the past, this was impossible though due to narco-terrorist/guerrilla activity. May the Gods of Backpacking be with you if you attempt the journey on your own without a guide.

South America is becoming a digital nomad hub. After the pandemic, the boom really: a generally low cost of living, relatively reliable internet, and tons of expat communities.

Medellín is the current front-runner. This city is growing at a RAPID pace and is becoming the apple in every backpacker’s eye.

Plus, Medellín is safer than ever. Lots of people want to stay here for an extended period of time, digital nomads included.

backpackers travel and adventure mendoza

Close behind are larger South American cities like Buenos Aires, São Paulo, and Quito. Being big cities though, you’ll have to overcome higher prices and crime. Safety in Buenos Aires can be sketchy but so can every massive city, right?

Note that, at the moment, most South American countries do not offer a special digital nomad visa.

mockup of a person holding a smartphone in white background with Holafly logo

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

Teaching English in South America

Most people who end up living or staying long-term in South America do one of two things: teach English or volunteer.

Teaching English in South America is very popular. Some people make a living out of just going from one city to the next city and hitting up all the English schools in between. Some are accredited though many find success using their own merits.

If you have a TEFL certificate it will be much easier to score teaching gigs in South America. I recommend getting yours with MyTEFL – Broke Backpacker readers get a 50% discount on TEFL courses when you enter the code PACK50  at the checkout.

Volunteering in South America

Volunteering abroad is a great way to experience a culture whilst doing some good. There are loads of volunteering gigs in South America ranging from protecting the Amazon to teaching in barrios of Buenos Aires.

Arguably, you may need a permit in order to volunteer. But in reality, the continent is pretty chill and this is unlikely to ever be enforced.

Group of people helping as Volunteer  in Ecuador

I spent a few weeks volunteering in the mountains in Northern Colombia and it was the best way to get to know the land, people, and lifestyle. Finding volunteering opportunities in South America is about learning, building community, and making an impact in a place you visit.

The best way to find volunteer jobs is word of a trustworthy mouth. But programs run through reputable work exchange programs like Worldpackers , Workaway , and WWOOF help you get your foot in the door of volunteer communities.

They’re a great opportunity for unique experiences and make amazing connections with people. But you do have to stay vigilant, especially when working with animals or children.

If you sign up for Worldpackers with a discount code, memberships are only $39 a year. For that price, it’s often worth giving it a try.

Summing up food in South America is like trying to explain what music is. It’s incredibly diverse and every country, every region, every household has a different definition.

First of all, meat is hard to avoid. They like it juicy, tender, slow-cooked, and accompanying pretty much everything. Especially in the southern part of the continent, Argentina, Uruguay, and South Brazil, the smell of cooking cow is heavy in the air.

The Argentinian way of grilling is Asado . And it’s not just a delicious barbecue – oh no – that’s just the centrepiece. The event is a huge part of the culture.

The vegetarian movement is gaining momentum, though it’s harder in some places than others. In more rural places, you may go hungry if you don’t want to eat meat now and again, but in general, it’s not impossible.

Man cooking food on the grill using his hands.

Andean countries like Peru and Bolivia have chronically underrated food scenes. In fact, Peruvian food is often regarded as some of the best in the world. You’ve never felt fresher than after chowing down that ceviche.

In the Amazon, they have a whole different gastronomic world; obviously, everything grows here. There are ingredients that come from the Amazon that just don’t exist anywhere else.

There are strange fruit and vegetables in abundance. Then, of course, the fresh fish comes leaping out of the river, almost directly to your plate. Catching your own fish is never a bad idea either.

The food in the north of South America, like Colombia and Venezuela, is the definition of comfort food. If you’re eating right, you’re going to be gaining a few kilos. Don’t pass on an opportunity to gorge yourself silly.

Street food usually involves lots of deep-fried goodness. But it’s the abuelas that make the best pastries, with oodles of love. And ooh, those arepas… they have a special place on my plate.

The Best Food in South America

Here are some of the best South American foods that you definitely shouldn’t miss out on.

  • Feijão (Brazil) – Beany stew for everyday eating.
  • Acai (Brazil) – Superfood berry.
  • Empanadas – Your trusty stuffed pastry friend.
  • Dulce de leche – Just try it… thank me later.
  • Asado (Argentina) – Grilled meat with a side of meat.
  • Antichucho (Bolivia) – Mmmm… cow’s heart.
  • Ceviche (Peru/Chile) – raw but not raw fish, in lemon juice.
  • Cuy (Peru) – A large cooked guinea pig.
  • Encebollado (Ecuador) – Ecuadorian Grandma’s comfort stew.
  • Arepas (Colombia) – Corn pockets to fill your hungry belly.

South America is a very complex continent. Colonization by Western Europeans technically makes it the youngest member of modern civilization. But saying this disregards all the history that came before the “ conquistadors” arrived.

South America has hosted many advanced civilizations like the Incan Empire, whose influence still lasts to this day. Though much of the native culture was lost with the mass killing by said conquistadors .

Long story short: South America is an enormously diverse region, maybe more so than anywhere else. Yes, European culture has largely shaped the entire continent. But indigenous and African cultures are just as important, if not more so.

Northern Brazil is very Afrocentric. This was the first charted part of the continent and ideal for rowing sugarcane. Consequently, it’s the place where all the slaves were brought.

Slavery is over. But it leaves behind a blend of African customs and cultures morphed into Latino culture.

Local family dressing traditional clothes from Peru in front of their house.

The south, which constitutes Argentina, Chile, and Southern Brazil, is much more European. Aside from the big players – the Spanish and Portuguese – Italians, Germans, and French all settled here following a huge era of migration.

In the Andean countries of Bolivia, Peru, and Ecuador you see a lot of indigenous cultures. Some people still live like their ancestors, living in the highlands and tending the land. Though Spanish is still the dominant language, several local languages, like Quecha and Aymara, are still commonly spoken.

Don’t make the mistake of thinking that all of South America is just an extension of Europe or North America. You’ll miss out on the beautiful subtleties of the region, which make backpacking in South America so wonderful.

A backpacking trip in South America is a unique experience in itself. And within that, there are instance amounts of opportunities to make your South America itinerary different to anyone else who’s travelled here before. Here are some of the best things to add to it:

packable travel medical kit

Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.

Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure – don’t be daft!

Hiking in South America

South America has some of the best hikes in the world . Here are a few iconic options to get your bucket list started:

View of argentinian lakes in Patagonia.

  • Lost City Hike, Colombia : This hike through the Colombian jungle will certainly be a highlight of your South America travel.
  • Sierra Nevada de Cocuy, Colombia : Snow in Colombia? Here you can find peaks are as high as 5,330 meters above sea level. If you have your own gear and a good sleeping bag , you can probably do the hike without a guide.
  •  Iliniza-Norte, Ecuador . This is a fantastic 2-day trek that does not require any special gear or equipment. If you are planning to tackle Cotopaxi this is a great warm-up. A solid challenge for the dedicated hiker!
  • The Salkantay trek, Peru: Hike to Machu Picchu over 4 days and experience the true beauty of the Andes along the way. One of my favorite South American treks for sure.
  • The Cordillera Huayhuash, Peru : Truly one of the most stunning areas in Peru. For serious hikers, planning a trek like this is one for the books!
  • Hut-to-Hut in Bariloche, Argentina:  Spectacular hike for some of the best views of Nahuel Huapi National Park and its lakes. Tents are optional since you can stay exclusively in the refugios.
  • Villa O’Higgins to El Chaltén, Chile/Argentina : One of the greatest ways to experience Patagonia. Walk from Villa O’Higgins in Chile to El Chaltén in Argentina. You’ll see some superlative mountain, forest, and lake scenery along the way.
  • Torres Del Paine Circuit, Chile : The hike of all hikes in South America. This epic walk takes 9 – 11 days and passes through some of the most dramatic landscapes one can fathom. A must if you’ve got the time and hiking spirit!

Scuba Diving in South America

You have scuba diving options galore in South America! In general, scuba diving is pricier than it is in other parts of the world but that’s because it’s worth it. If it is something that you really want to do, I say go for it! 

Colombia is probably the cheapest and best place to dive AND get certified in South America. You have Providencia and Santa Catalina (a smaller island to the north) which is home to the third-largest coral reef barrier on Earth and includes over 40 dive sites.

Backpacking South America

Malpelo is the harder-to-reach version: a jagged rock in the Colombian Pacific, it can only be reached by boat, and divers can only visit here as part of an organized trip. It’s worth the time and money for sure; Malpelo is one of the best places in the world to dive with sharks, including hammerheads, whale, and the rare sun ray shark.

People have reported schools of up to 500 sharks around Malpelo. That’s right. 500!

Peru and Ecuador both have some decent diving right off their coasts. The diving around the Galápagos Islands is world-class, but it will cost you a fortune go diving there.

If you truly want to have the scuba diving adventure of a lifetime, I highly recommend joining a Liveaboard trip.

  • Liveaboard the Galapagos
  • Liveaboard Colombia

Surfing in South America

Surfing is the number one sport on South America’s coast. From Peru to Brazil, backpackers and locals are coming together and shredding!

Peru is home to the longest left-breaking wave in the world . You can literally ride a wave for five minutes!

The Pacific Coast is dotted with funky surf towns, where the main activities revolve around the waves and the nightlife. There are a plethora of surf schools in every country. Often these surf schools offer Spanish classes as well if you are wanting to double down (which I highly suggest!).

It is easy to fall in love with the surfing lifestyle. But be careful, you might just fall in love with the whole scene. I wouldn’t blame you for a second.

A woman surfing in the ocean off the coast of Australia

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Is backpacking South America safe?

Yes. Backpacking South America is safe. Just bear in mind that crime rates are higher than in some other areas of the world. But by following standard safety procedures, there’s no reason why that crime should affect you. Be sensible, show people plenty of respect, and look after your friends.

How are the bus journeys in South America?

The long-distance buses are generally top quality and comfortable. Just be aware that distances on the map can be deceiving and journeys can be long so bring plenty of water, food, something to keep you warm in the baltic aircon, and probably some toilet paper too.

Is travelling South America as a woman possible?

Absolutely! Not only is it possible, it’s awesome. Do remember that, unfortunately, women do have to consider safety as a factor more so than men, especially after dark. But with that in mind, prepare for the adventure of a lifetime.

How are South Americans so damn sexy?

There are too many reasons. Just go and spark up conversation with them and find out for yourself. Beware though, you’re likely to fall completely, madly, deeply in love.

Backpacking South America can be one hell of a party at times. Take it from me, it can be easy to get carried away.

You can make a positive impact on people when we travel and South America is the perfect place to do that. Try to spend your money in places where the experience is mutually rewarding.

When buying a local craft, be fair to the person who spent countless hours crafting it. Pay people their worth and contribute to the local economies as much as possible.

If you visit small or indigenous communities, be respectful: they are normal folks just living their lives.  Backpacking South America – or any region for that matter – often illuminates some of the great socio-economic inequalities of the world. Never take it for granted that you are healthy and financially able to go travelling.

Show the world around you some gratitude and help to make a positive impact on it. Most of all have the time of your life and spread the love!

Well, amigos, the time has come for me to send you on your travellin’ way. Armed with your budget travel knowledge, on you go!

Your South America backpacking trip awaits. Have a few cold ones for me, yeah?

Will stood with four of the maestras in traditional Amazonian clothing

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Laura Hall

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30 Comments

Great post, loved the detail and enthusiasm you have for South America. I am saving up to travel from northern Colombia all the way down the west to Patagonia and then back up the other side (yes I am aware it will take the best part of a year). I wondered if you had any tips on the best time of year to start this adventure?

Plan your time with the weather and seasons in mind! Have a great time.

Is traveling to brazil unwise right now because of the covid situation? Has it become more unsafe because of the covid situation? It’s been really difficult to find solid information, and making a decision wether to visit or not has been quite difficult. Thanks for the otherwise wonderful post! Super informative.

informative post . best of luck

Hi Kami, glad you liked the article!

Very nice blog, congratulations I found a cheaper way to flight some routes inside Latin America If someone have plans, after this health crisis is gone, just ask me, I will be glad to help

Interesting. However as a Guyanese, that us from Guyana, South America I always find it odd that many persons leave out the English Dutch and French speaking countries of South America. We too have things to offer.

Hello Malkia, We totally agree with you! As soon as we manage to visit Guyana, we will update this guide! I look forward to exploring your country. Cheers

Hey there!! So I am planning a trip to south America this summer. I have a couples questions. I’m flying into Bogota, Colombia. I plan on spending 2-3 months in SA. I’d like to travel from Bogota to Machu Picchu, then to Buenos Aires, and depending on time Brazil. I am trying to figure out the cheapest way to travel from country to country. I don’t care about long bus rides or any of that. I just don’t know where to purchase the cheapest bus tickets. Please help!!!

Simply the cheapest tickets are usually at the bus station, or wherever locals buy their tickets. Look out for agencies and the like that might add a fee for booking the very same thing you could yourself.

I have a good tip to move around if you need to do it by plane, just let me know if you plan (after the whole problem is gone) to fly some stretches.

Hey man great blog, been reading so many of your posts recently, can you email me I wanna chat to someone who knows there stuff… I’m going to South America for about 6 to 8 months on a budget and need help planning a route… hopefully you see this and we can chat thank you

Hey Jamie, What is your question specifcally regarding your route? Cheers!

Thank you so much for sharing these information – they are so useful!

I am planning a trip of a lifetime to South America. To keep cost down, I am likely to stay in hostels for the first time. I like to understand how travellers wash their clothes in hostels. Are there usually any washer or dryer machines in hostels? Do we usually have to pay to use them? What is the price like?

Look forward to hearing from you.

Hi Tina, Some hostels offer laundry services. Other times you can get your laundry done at local lavanderias . Depending on the country, prices are usually pretty reasonable. They usually charge by the weight. Getting a massive load of clothes washed should not cost you more than $10 (sometimes way less) washed, dried, and folded. Cheers!

Thanks Chris for this wonderful article. Bolivia and Brazil is a magical place! Anyone who went there said it was absolutely amazing! That nature is just wonderful here. keep sharing your travel ides about more places of South America.

Cheers, Mate!

I started my South American journey two months ago and this has been a big help. There’s literally so many options once you get down here. Overwhelming in all of the best ways.

Much love from Peru.

Wow! That’s a marvelous article! Unfortunately, not so long ago, I was in South America, and I really had a lot of predicaments while traveling. If only I had read this article before the traveling, most likely, my trip would have been better!

Great content, congratulations.

Really great and in depth guide, thank you! Planning my first trip to South America and really like the look of your 3 month route across Peru, Ecuador and Columbia, was thinking of taking another couple of weeks on top to see Bolivia as well. What month would you advise starting this travel? (would really like to be home for Christmas)

The autumn months would be a lovely time to visit South America 🙂

Awesome content! I took so much advice and suggestions. I feel like I can plan whatever kind of trip ranging in length of time spent there plus budgeting. Thanks!

It’s great that you’re such a strong advocate of reusable water bottles and avoiding one-use bottles and generally I totally agree. However, I normally refill my water bottle from the tap, which obviously isn’t safe everywhere. Geneally can you drink tap water in South America? Or if not how do you safely refill without buying bottled water?

We’ve used lots of things over the years to harvest clean water from taps and streams. The GRAYL filter bottle is one of our favorites. South America is something of a mixed bag when it comes to drinking water. It ranges from safe to unsafe with every shade of chloriney in between.

I am starting my South America trip new month and I found this website extremely useful. One question though – I am worried about the requirement to show proof of onward travel. Any idea if Argentina, Chile, Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador, and Colombia require this?

Hi Neringa,

I never had to show proof of onward travel during my 6 months in South America. There was never a time when a customs officer/border police questioned me about my onward travel plans. You should be just fine 🙂

Thanks, Chris. You have been right! But I was requested to provide proof of onward travel by Avianca when flying for Cusco to Quito. Maybe because my passport expires soon. My friend, however, did not have one and was still allowed to board the plane 🙂 There was a group of Israeli guys who I think had to show this info, too.

Thanks a lot man, I’m planning a 3 month trip to Colombia, Peru and Brazil next year and this really helped me get my head around how to do it and the kind of money I’m gonna need to save! Cheers dude

Thanks, this really helped me a lot for planning my trip next year!

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backpacking latin america

Backpacking Argentina Itinerary

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Welcome to this backpacking Argentina itinerary!

Argentina is an incredible country to visit because it’s full of exciting cities, a great selection of natural wonders, and many amazing highlights you simply can’t miss.

join backpacking latin america travel blog

What's in this guide?

Backpacking Argentina

There’s also a passionate, romantic culture , and people are very welcoming (depending on where you go), so it’s truly a joy to spend time in this country.

If you’re planning a trip, this itinerary will guide you so you don’t miss any of the gems Argentina has to offer.

Is Argentina worth Visiting?

The passion and elegance of Argentina has long made it one of the must-see’s when traveling to South America.

With its cosmopolitan and vibrant capital of Buenos Aires, to the thundering waterfalls of Iguazú and snowy peaks of Patagonia, get laced up for an epic adventure if you are planning to visit this magnificent country.

BLATAM backpacking data:

  • 💰 Currency: Argentine Peso
  • 🇦🇷 Language: Spanish
  • 🌎 Population Size: 45.4 Million
  • 📍 Best Secret: Jujuy
  • 🍴 Eat: Asado, Empanadas
  • 🥛 Drink: Fernet
  • 💸 Average Daily Budget: $20-25

Is Argentina Safe?

Compared to other countries in South America, Argentina is a lot safer, but you still need to take certain precautions because petty crime is a risk.

  • Always keep your belongings on you and leave your valuables at home or the hotel/hostel safe.
  • Dress to blend in; leave designer clothes and jewelry at home.
  • Make a copy of your passport and keep the real one safe.
  • Only take as much cash as you need, not more, and get a money belt for extra safety.
  • Always be alert when you’re out and about and watch out for basic distraction techniques.

Overall, you’ll be fine in Argentina as long as you practice some common sense and you follow a few simple travel safety tips, which we’ll provide later on.

If you happen to be arriving here after backpacking Brazil or Colombia you may feel less at risk but by no means at all should you let your guard down.

Safety Facts about Argentina

  • The best way to evaluate safety is by looking at the 2020 Global Peace Index. This measures the state of peace of each country in comparison with the rest of the World, by evaluating both tangible and qualitative indicators.
  • Argentina ranked as 74th out of the 163 nations measured, which is similar to that of Nepal. For comparison, The United States ranked as 121st.
  • Argentina has long been one of the safer countries to visit in Latin America, with standards feeling more to that of European countries. In major cities such as Buenos Aires and Mendoza, however, safety can still be an issue in certain areas.
  • Theft and robberies are common, especially at night, so avoid going out alone or wearing over-the-top flashy clothes and accessories. In recent times, there has been more political instability so be cautious that riots and large public protests are much more frequent.

See this guide on safety in Argentina for more detailed tips on staying safe.

Argentina Backpacking Itinerary

As we mentioned before, there are plenty of places to visit in Argentina.

Today, we are narrowing it down to 6 of the most important highlights so you can have a great time during your trip.

Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires is the capital city of the country and it’s one of the largest cities in Latin America. It’s known for its European architecture and exciting neighborhoods, so it’s definitely worth a visit.

Buenos Aires is a modern city filled with classical European architecture buildings

You can visit the best spots of Buenos Aires with a bike tour – the ideal way to see the beautiful sights up close and perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

There’s plenty to do in Buenos Aires, the birthplace of tango, including visiting art galleries, go to world-class theaters , visit museums, enjoy the lively nightlife, and so much more.

The Obelisco is a must-visit and San Telmo is also a great place known for its active flea markets.

Iguazu Falls

The Iguazu Falls are one of the largest waterfalls on earth and they’re located right on the border between Argentina and Brazil in the Parque Nacional Iguazú.

Iguazu Falls is the largest waterfall system in the world

These waterfalls offer an incredible spectacle and they are so beautiful, not to mention the park is bursting with exotic wildlife and it’s home to the last remaining Atlantic rainforests.

We recommend joining this all-inclusive tour to Iguazu Falls , where you’ll have a truck ride through the jungle and boat tour included!

Los Glaciares

The Glaciers National Park is the second-largest park in the country and it’s home to one of the largest ice fields on earth and they are super easy to access.

Perito Moreno Glacier in contrast with the greenery of the Argentinian mountains

A unique way to explore the stunning glaciers is through a full day boat cruise with lunch – you can eat a sumptuous lunch while admiring the glaciers!

You don’t even have to drive to get there because there are shuttles that will take you straight from the entrance of the park along the Going-to-the-Sun Road.

This road is as scenic as it gets and it provides a breathtaking glacial view. One of the highlights is the Perito Moreno Glacier , where you can do some trekking and rock climbing.

El Chaltén is a lovely frontier town and even though it’s small, it’s home to Mount Fitz Roy and Cerro Torres, which are two of the most incredible peaks in Patagonia.

Backpackers enjoying the beauty of El Chaltén

For many backpackers to this town a full day tour with hiking is the best way to visit, as this small town has lots of majestic views to offer. It is also perfect for hiking because there are plenty of trails, trekking, and mountain biking .

Tourists love this village in the summer because it has so many adventures to offer.

Valle de la Luna

This is one of the most unique spots in Argentina and it provides a lunar landscape that’s difficult to believe it’s real.

Valle de la Luna, or Provincial Ischigualasto Park, as it’s also known , is a desert landscape that’s full of amazing rock formations.

The rock formations of Valle de Luna look like they're from another planet

It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it truly makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a different world.

You’ll want to head here with this organized tour . Not only will you explore the surreal rocky formations, you’ll also visit many of its surrounding towns such as Marayes and San Agustin de Valle Fertil.

Mar del Plata

Last but not least, we have Mar del Plata, which is a super popular beach city that has a lot to offer. Including museums, clubs, restaurants, and more, that will allow you to have an amazing time.

Sunset at the beach town of Mar de Plata

The beaches located in this city are great but they get very crowded during peak season, so keep that in mind and prepare accordingly.

Playa Varese , Playa Iglesia, and Playa Grande stand out, and there’s also Playa Serena and Playa Mogotes, which are quieter and calmer options.

Argentina Itinerary (2 Weeks)

Below we’ll cover our best Argentina itinerary. As well as keeping an eye on time, it’s also been designed to keep things fresh and exciting too for you.

Buenos Aires (Days 1-3)

Kicking off our itinerary in Buenos Aires, the capital is by far the easiest entry point into Argentina . There’s a tonne of international flights arriving here daily from all over the world.

buneos aires itinerary tango dance la boca

The city is famed for its architecture, and for the absolute best we recommend visiting Teatro Colón and the La Boca neighbourhood.

After you’ll want to spend time walking around Recoleta , which is home to a seriously impressive graveyard (with massive shrines dedicated to the most rich and powerful of Argentina’s illustrious history).

After exploring for the day, you can then watch a Tango show at the Piazzolla, where you’ll also enjoy a selection of Argentinian wines along with a tasty three-course meal

backpacking buenos aires puerto madero

Also be sure to spend time wandering around the area of Puerto Madero, which is full of authentic restaurants where you can try some pretty good steaks, as well as some of the best national wines.

Ushuaia (Days 4-6)

From Buenos Aires we’ll take a flight to the most southern city in the world .

The flight takes around 3 hours, and whilst some would be hoping for a bus, the average time on wheels is around 51 hours (you can head this way if you really want, but for our time-focused itinerary this won’t be possible).

One of the best things to do in town is to take a ferry ride along the Beagle Channel , where you’ll get the best views of Ushuaia, and also some pretty incredible sceneries too.

Other things to do include seeing Penguins on Martillo Island , visiting the Les Éclaireurs Lighthouse (the most southern man-made construction in the world), as well as heading to Valle de Lobos to see the forests on a husky-pulled sled.

El Calafate (Days 7-9)

After getting acquainted with Ushuaia, we’ll now take a bus north to the town of El Calafete , which takes around 15 hours.

cafayete itinerary argentina

Sitting on Lago Argentino (the biggest lake in the country), El Calafete has now turned into a very popular backpacking hotspot, mostly for those wanting to see Perito Moreno Glacier.

This 60m beast towers above the surrounding scenery, and is best seen sooner rather than later, as unfortunately it is shrinking at speed due to Global Warming.

Other must-sees here include the beautiful Lake Nimez which is full of Pink Flamingos among other rare birds , and heading to the charming town of El Chaltén – which is also a base camp for those wanting to hike the jagged peaks of Mount Fitz Roy.

Those who want to hike this awesome mount will want to head with this two-day tour which includes all meals and also a hike up to Cerro Torre.

Bariloche (Days 10-12)

Now we’ll take the longest bus of our itinerary to get to Bariloche (unless you already went full loco getting from BA to Ushuaia).

The average duration takes around 24 hours, so make sure to get prepared with some supplies and warm blankets!

Bariloche is known for being the gateway into the Seven Lakes of Argentina’s Lake District . Some of the best to explore by boat include Villarino, as well as Nahuel Huapi which sits on Bariloche’s shores.

Whilst here, be sure to take the gondola up to the top of Cerro Campanario for the best views of the surrounding region.

Also, if heading during the winter season (from June until September), then this is a great place to go skiing or snowboarding, with over 50 trails in the popular close-by resort of Cerro Catedral. So make sure to get prepared with some supplies like this long-lasting power bank as well as some warm blankets!

Mendoza (Days 13-15)

Last but not least, we’ll head north to the city of Mendoza, which is close to the rugged Andes that separate Argentina from Chile. The bus from Bariloche will take roughly 19 hours.

maipu valley bike tour

Mendoza is one of the most popular cities to visit in Argentina, as is renowned for having some of the best wines in the world .

One of the best things to do here is to head off into the nearby Major Valley, where you can rent a bike and explore all of the wineries at your own pace.

Other great trips here include to the Puente del Inca , which is also close to the base camp of Aconcagua – the tallest mountain in South America.

Even if the 18-20 day trek to the summit doesn’t take your fancy, still heading to the mirador (a 3 hour bus from Mendoza) is very much worth it with its spectacular views.

From here you can then either continue exploring Northern Argentina with our action-packed itinerary, or head west into Chile.

And there we have our 2 week Argentina itinerary. Now let’s move on to our most important tips, so you can have the best experience possible here.

Argentina: Travel + Safety Tips

Argentina is one of the safest countries in South America, but you still need to take certain precautions to make sure you’re safe.

⬇️ Below you can find a list of our top recommendations for Argentina:

  • Look out for the top rated hostels in Argentina for the most comfortable rooms and meeting like minded people etc.
  • Don’t flaunt your mobile devices when you’re in public.
  • Buenos Aires is undoubtedly one of the best cities for nightlife in South America. Jet Lounge is the exclusive high-end lounge, whilst Rosebar is a great option for those with varying music tastes, as many different international DJ’s play here most days of the week.
  • As cliché as it is, there’s really no beating the steak here. Asado (barbeque) is the way to go in Argentina. Also be sure to try Chimichurri, which is a green salsa made out of garlic, onion, chilli and other condiments which are perfectly blended together.
  • If someone tries to rob you, it’s best to not resist, which is why it’s a good idea to only carry essentials.
  • Ushuaia, Iguazú Falls, Acongagua Mountain, Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes (Buenos Aires). See this list of top rated tours in Argentina
  • Do your research and avoid rough neighborhoods.
  • Pickpockets are common in public transport and they often work in groups, so be aware of your surroundings.
  • If visiting the entire country, then pack for anything and everything weather-wise. As you’ve seen it can range from hot desert to ice-cold glaciers, so bring a mixture of light clothes and swim-wear when in the North, as well as boots and a thick coat for those dreamy hikes in Patagonia.

backpackers travel and adventure mendoza

These tips are easy to follow and they will make feel a lot more confident when you’re in public.

Just make sure you stay out of rough areas and do your research or talk to locals to get a lay of the land.

Traveling Around Argentina

Buses are a great means of transportation in Argentina and they are well-equipped, so they’re comfortable , spacious, and include toilets, air-conditioning, heating, and more.

An Argentina bus parking at a stop at night

If not, the semi-sleeper class will be just fine. Make sure you research the schedules and book the tickets online to save you some hassle.

If you want to travel Argentina by bus, you should choose your seats depending on the length of your trip. If the trip is long, splurge on the sleeper class or the executive class .

Research the bus station or the platform and ensure you know how to find it, be there ahead of time, and once you’re on the bus, just enjoy the scenery.

Argentina itinerary Map

Some of our favourite hostels in Argentina include:

America del Sur (Buenos Aires), Mora International Hostel (Mendoza), Cruz del Sur (Ushuaia).

Best time to visit Argentina

We’ve spoken a lot about the best time to visit South America on this blog (George is absolutely obsessed with checking the weather when we travel).

When looking at Argentina’s scope and size on a map, it’s no surprise that the weather can vary extremely in different areas.

For the colder areas, we recommend bringing this insulated Parka for the guys, and also this high-quality Parka for the ladies reading.

Buenos Aires has a relatively predictable weather pattern , with comfortable Summer (daily averages of 72-77°F) and Winter seasons (54-59°F) which are similar to that of Southern Europe. It’s also quite similar for other major cities such as Mendoza.

Patagonia is a whole different beast when it comes to climate and temperatures. Located in the extreme-south, temperatures often border freezing , and can feel colder due to the South Atlantic winds that pass through. Some backpacking gloves to protect your hands can go along way.

In Ushuaia, summer temperatures can range from 45-50°F, however in the winter, averages can reach down to a bitter 30-34°F (for Latin American standards that is!).

What to pack for Argentina

Now we know more about Argentina and its varied climate, let’s talk about what you’ll need when heading here.

As we have seen, the northern parts can be quite comfortable and sometimes hot if heading in the summer.

Heading further towards Northern Argentina where the borders with Bolivia and Brazil (along the Paraná River) can get even hotter, so if you’re planning to head here then be sure to bring lots of light layers with you.

In Patagonia, it will be cold regardless of when you visit, so bring thermals, lots of layers and also protective sunglasses (as the sun here can be pretty intense, especially when there Is snow that creates glare).

As well as these, in terms of packing, you’ll want to bring the usual essentials such as toiletries, document holders, hiking boots , towels, a water bottle as well as a day-pack for any excursions you’ll be taking part in.

Depending on when and where you want to go, you’ll also want to consider bringing sun-cream and mosquito repellent.

Got travel insurance for Argentina?

world nomads insurance

Backpacking Argentina: Final Words

As you can see, Argentina has a lot to offer, much more than we were able to cover today.

However, this itinerary will take you through the best highlights and we recommend you use it as a reference before and during your trip so you can make the most out of your time in the country.

Are you still looking for ideas? See our backpacking South America for even more itinerary ideas and a general look at where to go on the continent.

👉🏽 P.S. If you’ve found this guide helpful, you can buy us a coffee here to say thanks! Or, support us by downloading our South America Travel Bible to get our very best content.

“ Dear traveler! Some links in this post contain affiliate links. Meaning, if you click through and make a purchase, book a hostel or sign up for a tour, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you . Your support means a lot and helps us to carry on traveling and maintaining the quality of this site for you.”

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  4. Mendoza: Off the Beaten Path Adventure Activities

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  5. Mendoza, Argentina

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    October-April. Duration. Five Days. Price. From USD 1200. If you cannot find a suitable itinerary or date, please do not hesitate in contact us and we will arrange a private trip to suit your requirements. Simply call or email us and we'll construct the perfect program for you. Enjoy the best Mendoza hiking and trekking tours in the best ...

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    2. Tour Aconcagua Park in Small Group from Mendoza with Barbecue Lunch. 142. Food & Drink. 6+ hours. Group size no more than nine people with breakfast and lunch with wine included. Unlike most other Mendoza agencies we actually…. Free cancellation. Recommended by 96% of travelers.

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    Backpackers 7 items; Couples ... Mendoza Adventure Trip Package . Rating: 100%. 2 Reviews. from. US$ 608. Book Now. Mendoza Vineyards Bike Tour . from. US$ ... Travel Tips to Discover Peru and Unveil the Heart of the Inca Empire. Mar 04, 24 Peru.

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    Kayak along the Beagle Channel, hike in the Tierra del Fuego National Park, or take a dog-sledding trip in the winter. For the ultimate adventure, board a ship to Antarctica, following in the footsteps of the world's greatest explorers. Every day in Ushuaia brings a new adventure, making it a fitting finale for any backpacking trip in Argentina.

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