Destination Guide - Argentina

Comprising almost the entire southern half of South America, Argentina is the world's eighth largest country and the diversity of the land ranges from wild and rugged, to remote in southern Patagonia, to the bustling metropolis of Buenos Aires in the north. You can find some of the world's tallest mountains and volcanoes, including Aconcagua, one of the 7 highest mountains on the 7 continents. There are expansive deserts, endless plains of the pampas, fast-flowing rivers and even the deep and blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The thundering Iguazu Falls is also one of Argentina's prized possessions. Argentina’s culture is heavily influenced by Italian and Spanish roots, which gives it a very European flare. Adventure opportunities abound in this South American country by the sea.

Official Name: Republic of Argentina
Population: 37 Million
Capital City: Buenos Aires, pop. 16 Million
People: 85% European descent, 15% Indian, Mestizo and other minorities
Languages: Spanish, with Italian and many other indigenous languages
Religion: 93% Roman Catholic
Currency: US dollars are legal tender and are preferred over the Argentine Peso
Time: Standard time zone, UTC/GMT -3 hours
Electricity: 220V 50Hz (http://www.kropla.com)
Major Industries: Food processing and agribusiness
Airport Departure Tax: $32.50 USD (subject to change)

IMPORTANT FACTS

Travel Documents

A valid passport is required for Canadian and American citizens for travel into Argentina. For citizens of other countries you should contact the embassy or consulate for entry requirements. Visas are not required for people traveling with Canadian or U.S. passports but please make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your date of arrival into Argentina or you may be refused entry. We suggest that you carry a photocopy of your passport separately and leave a copy with friends or family at home.

Climate

Climates range from hot and humid in the north to cold and rainy in the south. In northern Argentina, summer days will be in the 90s F/33-37 C and nights in the 70s F/23-27 C (winter highs in the 60s F/15-22 C and lows in the 40s F/5-10 C). Tierra del Fuego, at the southern tip of Argentina, is almost always cold and/or rainy, with summer highs in the 50s-60s F/10-21 C and temperatures well below freezing in the winter.

Food

Some of the must-tries in Argentina include carbonada- a beef stew with rice, sweet potatoes, squash, maize and chopped apples and peaches; Matambre Relleno – a stuffed and rolled flank steak that is served either cold or baked; and Almendrado – ice cream rolled in crushed almonds. You should exercise caution with food sold in the streets.

Water

Tap water is treated in Buenos Aires, although to be on the safe side it is advisable to drink only bottled water, which is available widely. Fruit drinks, soft drinks, coffee and tea are all widely available and safe to drink.

Vaccinations

Argentina has a high standard of living and the health risks are considered low. There are no vaccinations required unless you are traveling from countries that have not eradicated malaria, yellow fever, etc. There are some inoculations that are recommended however; these are tetanus, diphtheria and polio. We advise you to contact your nearest travel clinic for information on health requirements, as this information can and does change frequently. A good website for current information is The Centre for Disease Control at www.cdc.gov/travel/.

Argentina Trips

CHOOSE YOUR ADVENTURE
1	Brazil and Argentina Extravaganza Biking, Hiking, Rafting, Kayaking & Rappelling (9 Days)
2	Chile and Argentina - The Best of Patagonia Trekking (12 Days)
3	On the Trail of Argentina's Patagonia Biking, Hiking & Ice Trekking (8 Days)