Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Local Transportation
Bus
Local Argentine buses, called
colectivos,
are notorious for charging down the street and
spewing clouds of black smoke while traveling at breakneck speeds. Riding on them is a
good way to see the cities and get around, providing you can sort out the often complex
bus systems. Buses are clearly numbered and usually carry a placard indicating their final
destination. Sometimes, identically numbered buses serve slightly different routes (espe-
cially in big cities), so pay attention to the placards. To ask 'Does this bus go (to the town
center)?' say '
¿Va este colectivo (al centro)?'
Most city buses operate on coins; you pay as you board. In some cities, such as Men-
doza or Mar del Plata, you must buy prepaid bus cards, purchased at many kiosks.
Subway
Buenos Aires is the only Argentine city with a subway system (known as the Subte), and
it's the quickest and cheapest way of getting around the city center.
Taxi & Remise
The people of Buenos Aires make frequent use of taxis, which are digitally metered and
cheap by US and European standards. Outside the capital, meters are common but not
universal, and you'll need to agree on a fare in advance.
Where public transportation is scarce it's possible to hire a taxi or
remise
with driver for
the day. This can be especially convenient and economical for a group, especially for tak-
ing an area tour. Always negotiate the fee in advance.
Remises
are unmarked radio taxis, usually without meters, that have fixed fares (com-
parable to taxis) within a given zone. Any business will phone one for you if you ask.
Train
For many years there were major reductions in long-distance train service in Argentina,
but recent years have seen some rail lines being progressively reopened. A good source
for information is
www.seat61.com/southamerica.htm
.
Trains continue to serve most of Buenos Aires and some surrounding provinces. During
the holiday periods, such as Christmas or national holidays, buy tickets in advance. Train
fares tend to be lower than comparable bus fares, but trains are slower and there are few-
er departure times and destinations. Long-distance trains have sleepers.
Train buffs will want to take the narrow-gauge
La Trochita
, which runs 20km between
Esquel and Nahuel Pan. Another legendary ride is Salta's touristy but spectacular
Tren a
