Plan
your Argentina adventure with essential travel information on visas,
safety, climate, and local culture. Discover when to visit, where to
go, and how to make the most of this vibrant South American
destination.
Country: Argentina
Continent / Region: South America
Capital City: Buenos Aires
Government Type: Federal Presidential Republic
Population: Approx. 46 million
Official Language(s): Spanish (Rioplatense)
Percentage of Population Who Speak English: ~15% (higher in major cities)
Currency: Argentine Peso (ARS)
Time Zone (GMT): GMT−3
Driving Side: Right
Electric Plug Type / Voltage: Type C/I – 220V
Adapter Needed: UK travellers require a plug adapter
Emergency Numbers: 911 (general), 101 (Police), 107 (Ambulance), 100 (Fire)
Travel Time from the UK (London): 13–14 hours (direct to Buenos Aires)
Best Time/Months to Travel: October–March (spring & summer)
Main International Airports:
Visa Requirements: Varies by nationality
Visa Needed for UK Citizens: Not required
Visa Duration / Cost: 90 days; free entry
Vaccinations Needed: Routine vaccines; consider Hepatitis A & Typhoid
Embassy Information (UK Embassy in Argentina):
Average Daily Costs: £30 / £60 / £150+
Tipping Culture: 10% appreciated in restaurants
Public Transport Options: Subte (metro), buses, taxis, long-distance coaches
Approx. Cost of Single Fare: ARS 100–200 (metro/bus)
Internet / SIM Availability: Good 4G in cities; Movistar, Claro, Personal
Main Climate Type: Diverse — subtropical, temperate, desert, Patagonian cold
Average Temperature: Varies from 5°C (Patagonia winter) to 30°C+ (north summer)
Major Cities: Buenos Aires, Córdoba, Mendoza, Rosario, Bariloche
Natural Attractions: Glaciers, deserts, mountains, lakes, waterfalls, vineyards
Popular Destinations: Buenos Aires, Patagonia, Iguazu Falls, Mendoza wine region, Salta & Jujuy
Main Religions: Predominantly Roman Catholic
Cultural Etiquette / Customs:
Cuisine Highlights: Asado (barbecue), empanadas, milanesa, chimichurri, dulce de leche, Malbec wine
Local Festivals:
Famous Landmarks: Iguazu Falls, Perito Moreno Glacier, Casa Rosada, Mount Fitz Roy, Tierra del Fuego
Overall Safety Rating: Moderate; varies by neighbourhood
Common Scams: Taxi scams, pickpocketing, counterfeit notes
Health Risks: Heat in summer, altitude issues in Andes, strong sun
Recommended Clinics: Private clinics in Buenos Aires, Córdoba, Mendoza
Insurance Recommendation: Essential — especially for Patagonia & adventure trips
Internet Speed: Good 4G in cities; weaker in rural Patagonia
Useful Phrases:
Must-See Attractions: Iguazu Falls, Buenos Aires tango shows, Perito Moreno Glacier, Bariloche lakes, Salta canyons
Unique Experiences: Tango lessons, estancia (ranch) stays, Malbec wine tours, Patagonian trekking, glacier walking
Hidden Gems: Cafayate wine region, Tilcara, Peninsula Valdés, Villa La Angostura, El Chaltén trails
Popular Areas to Stay: Buenos Aires Palermo/Recoleta, Bariloche centre, Mendoza wineries, El Calafate town
Average Hotel Prices: £25 / £50 / £150+
Book A Hotel: You can book your accommodation right here.
Nightlife Areas: Buenos Aires Palermo & San Telmo, Córdoba bars, Bariloche pubs
Local Drinks: Malbec wine, Fernet & Coke, craft beers, mate tea
Entertainment: Tango shows, late-night bars, theatres, live music
Car Rental: Available; useful in Patagonia & wine regions
Domestic Flights: Frequent between major hubs
Long-Distance Buses: Comfortable & popular for travel across the country
Taxi / Rideshare Costs: Affordable; Uber and Cabify widely used
Best Markets: San Telmo Market, Buenos Aires Recoleta Fair, Mendoza artisan shops
Popular Souvenirs: Leather goods, Malbec wine, mate gourds, crafts, Patagonia wool items
Local SIM Card Providers: Movistar, Claro, Personal
Typical Business Hours: 9 a.m.–8 p.m. (Mon–Sat)
Tap Water Safety: Safe in most cities
Local Apps to Download:
Did You Know?
Argentina is home to Patagonia, one of the world’s last great wilderness regions — shared only with Chile.