Destination Guide - Argentina

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)

Comprising almost the entire southern half of South America, Argentina is the world's eighth largest country and the diversity ranges from wild, rugged and 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, 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: Republica Argentina
Population: 40 Million
Capital City: Buenos Aires
People: 85% European descent, 15% Indian, Mestizo and other minorities
Languages: Spanish, with many 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: $23.50 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. 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.

As of January 1, 2010, there is also an entrance fee for Canadians and Americans. For Canadians, the fee is $70 US and for Americans $131 USD. The entrance fee is only applicable at the Ezeiza Airport.

Climate

The weather in Patagonia, though extremely variable, can often be wet, cold and windy. Throughout the country, the proximity of the Pacific and the Andes creates numerous pockets of localized weather patterns known as microclimates. The average temperature during the day is 11’C (51’F). At night, the temperature drops to 3’C (38’F).

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/.