Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
Mass tourism is a relatively new
phenomenon in Argentina, and the
quality of the country's tourist infrastructure
and services is gradually improving. It is a
relatively easy country to travel around,
although tourist facilities may still be
limited in its remote rural interiors. All
major cities, towns, and resorts have visitor
information centers that provide maps and
brochures detailing activities, hotels,
restaurants, and attractions. Hotel desk
staff are usually very helpful and almost
everyone on the street will gladly stop to
give directions and advice. Contrary to
conventional wisdom, visitors are not
dogged by bureaucracy and red tape at
every step, although it is advisable to
carry relevant documentation at all times.
Customs Information
Visitors may enter Argentina
from overseas with up to 2 liters
of alcoholic beverages, 400
cigarettes, 50 cigars, and 11 lb
(5 kg) of food. For travelers
entering from a neighboring
country, half these quantities can
be brought in. Declaration forms
must be completed, and
vegetables, plants, fruits, and
other perishable foods are
prohibited. Pets must be certified
in advance and have all their
vaccinations up-to-date. If
traveling from tropical countries
where diseases such as cholera
or yellow fever are prevalent,
obtain a vaccination certificate.
A bustling summer day at Plaza de Mayo, the capital's major tourist hub
When to Go
Argentina can be visited all year
round, except for skiing (Jun-
Sep) and whale-watching (Jun-
Dec). Most Argentinians holiday
in summer (Jan-Feb), a period
when Buenos Aires can be
humid and popular resorts
often crowded. The capital is at
its best during spring and fall.
Climatic conditions vary from
region to region: the
north is hotter than the south;
the west is drier than the east;
and the wind rarely stops
blowing in Patagonia.
passport at the immigration
center or by leaving and
re-entering the country. This
is usually done by taking the
short trip to Uruguay from
Buenos Aires. Information on
long-term stays for business
travelers can be obtained at
their local Argentinian embassy.
US citizens cannot enter Brazil
without a visa, an important
consideration when traveling
to Iguazú Falls. In case of loss
of passport, visitors should
inform their embassy.
Tourist Information
The state tourist board in
Argentina is the
Secretaría de
Turismo de la Nación
. Although
it may be difficult to find one in
the interior, all major cities have
tourist offices that provide maps
and brochures, plus information
on where to stay and what to
see in their area.
Visas and Passports
Citizens of North America,
Australasia, South Africa, the UK,
and all other Western European
countries require no visa to
enter Argentina for a stay of up
to 90 days. However, Canadian,
US, and Australian citizens must
pay a reciprocal entry fee of
US$160, which is valid for 10
years. Citizens of other countries
should check their requirements
at their Argentinian embassy
or consulate. Visits can be
extended by showing your
Well-equipped tourist information center providing brochures and maps
El Tren del Fin del Mundo - the train at the end of the world - in Tierra del Fuego
