Top 15 Unforgettable Tours in Argentina

Most of Argentina is situated at the southern end of South America, bordered by several neighboring countries and the South Atlantic Ocean. The South Georgia Islands, located off the southern tip of the country, were instrumental in the exploration of the southern seas and Antarctica. Additionally, the Falkland Islands off the coast have historically been a focal point of contention between Argentina and Britain.

Currently, a significant portion of the nation’s revenue is derived from tourism, with the Tierra del Fuego and the capital city, Buenos Aires, being among the prominent attractions. Below are 15 exceptional tours to consider in Argentina.

1. Buenos Aires Highlights Small Group Tour

Small group tours offer a more intimate experience compared to larger tours, making this option ideal for individuals keen on maximizing their time in Buenos Aires within a single day.

Highlights of the tour encompass the Presidential Palace, commonly referred to as Casa Rosada, Plaza de Mayo, and the charming, colorful residences along Caminito Street.

This tour is enriched with historic, exotic, and unique insights into Argentine culture, including a visit to the final resting place of the esteemed Eva Perón.

Participating in this tour is an excellent way to familiarize yourself with the city and commence your Argentine journey.

2. Perito Moreno Glacier and Boat Excursion

Argentina’s geographic position in the southern hemisphere allows it to host extreme weather patterns and numerous glaciers that have existed for millennia.

This tour of the beautiful Perito Moreno Glacier commences with a scenic one-hour drive along Lago Argentino before arriving at Glacier National Park.

The glacier can be admired via a safari boat, accessible from various conveniently located viewing platforms, offering guests a panoramic perspective of its splendor.

Participants will spend an hour admiring the glacier’s captivating range of colors, and with a bit of luck, they might witness a large chunk breaking off and cascading into the frigid waters below.

3. From Buenos Aires: Gaucho Ranch and San Antonio de Areco Day-Tour

The Pampas region represents Argentina’s expansive cattle ranching territory, characterized by estates extending over hundreds of thousands of acres of free-range land.

Gauchos, the Argentine cowboys, are featured prominently on this tour, offering participants exclusive insight into the lives of these dedicated ranchers and equestrians while enjoying stunning scenery.

This tour includes lunch and either a horseback ride or a ride in a horse-drawn cart for those preferring a safer option.

It serves as an exceptional opportunity to escape the city’s hustle and learn about a distinctive aspect of Argentine culture.

4. From El Calafate: Perito Moreno Glacier Ice Trek Tour

This unique adventure tour features a bilingual guide with substantial mountaineering expertise and begins with a concise orientation and safety briefing.

Once participants are informed, the journey will commence along the lakeside adjacent to the glacier.

Crampons must be worn for the ice progression, and the path will lead explorers on a 2-hour trek through crevices, ravines, and uneven ice fields before returning to the original spot.

This activity presents a moderate level of challenge and may not be suitable for young children or seniors.

5. Day-Tour from El Calafate to Torres del Paine

This tour is another favorite among adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers, featuring guided hiking and 4-wheel-drive excursions in El Calafate that promise to invigorate the senses.

Torres del Paine National Park is teeming with natural marvels and picturesque photo opportunities. Significant locations within the tour include Sarmiento de Gamboa Lake, Pehoe Lake, along with various mountainous and forested sectors.

The excursion commences in the early morning; participants should have their passports and additional cash since the tour crosses into Chile.

After a day filled with activities, guests will appreciate the included lunch prior to returning to El Calafate.

6. Small-Group Tour to San Isidro and Tigre Delta

This tour initiates in Buenos Aires, providing an excellent blend of historical and natural attractions.

Spanning between 5 and 6 hours, the tour includes visits to architecturally unique San Isidro and the largely untouched Tigre Delta, which flows into the Rio de la Plata.

In the town of Tigre, guests can peruse a bustling marketplace offering a variety of intriguing local crafts, while enjoying snacks and light refreshments.

The tour conveniently encompasses round-trip transportation from the hotel in Buenos Aires, eliminating potential stress from travel logistics.

7. El Calafate Balconies Tour by 4×4

El Calafate is a picturesque town located at the southern tip of Lago Argentino within Argentina’s Patagonia region.

This area is celebrated for its breathtaking natural landscapes, unpredictable weather, and a range of outdoor pursuits.

This tour utilizes an off-road 4-wheel-drive vehicle to transport guests through Torre Hill, Huyliche Mountains, and El Calafate, showcasing a plethora of stunning, photograph-worthy views.

The tour is offered with two starting time options, one in the morning and another in the afternoon, lasting approximately 3 hours and traversing a diverse array of landscapes and charming villages.

8. La Leona Petrified Forest Tour from El Calafate

The town of Calafate serves as the starting point for this adventurous tour, which leads guests along the enchanting Lago Argentino, Rio Santa Cruz, and the remarkable historical Hotel La Leona.

One of the natural wonders of the tour is the expansive valley that was once densely forested but has been sculpted by thousands of years of erosion from water and glaciers.

Remaining relics of the former forest are now petrified, providing a captivating hiking backdrop.

The trek to the petrified forest area presents a moderate challenge, so appropriate attire is recommended.

Following the hike, participants will savor lunch before returning to Calafate.

9. La Ventana Tango Show with Optional Dinner

For a memorable evening in Buenos Aires, the La Ventana Tango Show, which includes an optional dinner, offers a surprisingly affordable experience.

The Argentine passion for tango is exemplified in this renowned show, featuring live music closely accompanying the dance as well as a gaucho rope demonstration.

Should participants select the dinner option, they will enjoy a three-course meal that previous attendees have praised.

This evening is family-friendly, and the tour facilitates round-trip transportation from accommodations in Buenos Aires.

10. Horseback Riding at Nibepo Aike Ranch

El Calafate’s pastoral environment is ideal for individuals seeking authentic rural experiences that urban settings cannot provide.

While traveling to the ranch, guests typically have opportunities to observe local wildlife, and upon arrival, they will be introduced to their horse and guided on the responsible handling of these powerful animals.

The tour includes Parque Nacional Los Glaciares and Lago Roca, both of which are surrounded by the breathtaking natural beauty for which Argentina is celebrated.

An authentic barbecue lunch, complete with hot and cold beverages, enhances the experience.

11. Full-Day Sailing and Hiking Tour to El Chaltén

The tour commences with a breathtaking 50-minute sailing journey past some of the most spectacular glaciers in the country.

These glaciers are renowned for their vibrant colors, and large sections frequently break off and crash into the icy waters below, creating stunning splashes that are truly unforgettable.

After completing the boating segment, participants will follow an experienced guide into the nature reserve, traversing well-marked but thrilling trails that navigate through mountainous terrain and ice fields.

The hike presents a moderate level of difficulty, hence it is advisable not to embark on this journey while hungry.

After the hike, light snacks and refreshments are provided as a welcome treat before returning to El Calafate by boat.

12. Penguin Walk on Martillo Island

The southern seas are home to substantial populations of Magellanic and Gentoo penguins, with the rookeries on Martillo Island serving as an outstanding opportunity for observation.

Accompanied by a naturalist guide, guests will stroll amongst numerous nests and observe these fascinating marine birds in their daily activities.

This expedition offers an intimate look at these distinctive birds, followed by a return to the mainland to explore the historic buildings and beautiful gardens of Estancia Harberton.

Round-trip transportation from your hotel in Ushuaia is conveniently included in this tour.

13. Buenos Aires Food Walking Tour in Recoleta

Argentina boasts a rich tapestry of cultures and cuisines, and for those wishing to explore this diversity without departing Buenos Aires, the food and walking tour in Recoleta is a must-experience.

This 3-hour walking journey includes stops at various neighborhoods recognized for their distinct culinary traditions.

Notable delicacies, including empanadas, dulce de leche, and Argentine steak, will be sampled, while participants will also gain a deeper understanding of each area’s cultural and historical context.

The experience culminates with a wine tasting and a delightful serving of locally crafted ice cream.

14. Full-Day Malbec Wine Tour to Mendoza

Globally acclaimed, Argentina’s Malbec is produced in the Mendoza region, positioned at the foothills of the majestic Andes Mountains.

This comprehensive day tour includes a flight from Buenos Aires to Mendoza and visits to three of the region’s most prestigious wineries.

Participants will experience carefully paired food and wine tastings, enhancing appreciation of the distinct flavors and nuances that characterize each wine variety.

The tour also includes lunch and endorsements of round-trip airline tickets to and from Buenos Aires.

15. Tierra del Fuego National Park Private Tour with Port Pickup

Tierra del Fuego, situated in Argentina, represents one of the most southern and wind-battered regions of the inhabited world. This half-day journey to Tierra del Fuego National Park offers an excellent opportunity to explore this spectacular location.

Participants will have a private guide accompanying them throughout the experience, which includes hiking through the valleys, mountains, and lakes that embody this natural marvel.

Moreover, there is an optional train ride dubbed “the End of the World,” enriching an already comprehensive tour.

The tour’s cost encompasses round-trip transportation from the port in Ushuaia, making it an ideal option for cruise ship patrons.