Overview
Everything you need to know before visiting Argentina. From visa requirements to local customs, we've compiled the essential information to help you travel confidently and avoid common pitfalls.
Currency
Argentine Peso ($)
Best SIM Provider
Claro
Main Ride App
Uber
Payment
Cash preferred
Visa & Entry Requirements
Visa requirements vary based on your passport country. For the most accurate information, always check with your country's embassy or the official immigration website.
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Digital Nomad Visa (Visa Nómada Digital)
6-month renewable visa for remote workers. Must prove foreign income of at least $1,500 USD/month.
Official applicationExtension info: Tourist stays can be extended for 90 more days at the Dirección Nacional de Migraciones in Buenos Aires. You can also do a 'border run' to Uruguay (Colonia del Sacramento) for a day trip to reset your 90-day clock.
Essential Apps
UberAvailable in Buenos Aires, Córdoba, Mendoza, and other major cities
CabifyPopular alternative to Uber in Buenos Aires
DiDiOften cheapest option, growing coverage
Notes for Visitors
- Uber and Cabify work with international cards and phone numbers
- PedidosYa may require an Argentine phone number for verification
- BA Cómo Llego only covers Buenos Aires metro area
SIM Cards & Internet
Get a local SIM at any kiosk or phone store. Claro and Personal have the best coverage. Data is cheap — 10GB for ~$5-8 USD at the blue dollar rate.
- eSIM works well with Airalo and Saily
- Claro has the best overall coverage including Patagonia
- Free WiFi available in most cafes and restaurants in Buenos Aires
WiFi Reliability
Good in Buenos Aires cafes (15-40 Mbps). Spotty in rural areas and Patagonia. Coworking spaces offer reliable connections.
eSIM Options
Skip the airport SIM queue with an eSIM
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Money & Banking
Cards vs Cash
Argentina is a cash-heavy country. Cards are accepted at larger restaurants, hotels, and chain stores, but cash is essential for taxis, markets, smaller restaurants, and anywhere outside Buenos Aires. The 'blue dollar' parallel exchange rate means you can often get 30-50% more pesos for USD cash than using ATMs or cards.
ATM Tips
ATMs have low withdrawal limits (~$100-200 USD equivalent per transaction) and charge high fees. Banks like Santander, BBVA, and Banco Nación are most reliable. Withdraw during banking hours for security. Consider bringing USD cash and exchanging at cuevas (informal exchange houses) for the blue dollar rate.
Tipping Culture
Tipping is expected but more modest than the US. Restaurants: 10% (round up or leave cash even if paying by card). Bars: round up. Hotels: small tip for bellhops and housekeeping. Tour guides: 10-15%. Taxi: round up to the nearest 100 pesos.
- The 'blue dollar' parallel exchange rate can give you 30-50% more pesos for your USD cash — check the current rate at dolarblue.net before exchanging
- Prices are often listed in USD for tourist services (hotels, tours) — always confirm which currency
- Counterfeit bills exist — learn to check for watermarks and security features, especially on 1000 and 2000 peso notes
Recommended Travel Cards
Avoid foreign transaction fees with these travel-friendly cards
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Getting Around
From the Airport
Available at Ezeiza (EZE). Request from arrivals — drivers pick up in the parking area. Cheapest reliable option.
Shuttle bus service from Ezeiza to downtown Buenos Aires. Reliable and comfortable. Drops off at Terminal Madero in Retiro.
Pre-paid at counters inside the terminal. More expensive than rideshare but hassle-free.
Local Transport
Buenos Aires subway — 6 lines covering the city center. Buy a SUBE card (rechargeable transit card) at any kiosk or station.
Extensive bus network. Requires a SUBE card. Google Maps or BA Cómo Llego for routes.
Convenient in all major cities. Much cheaper than official taxis.
Licensed car service, like a local ride-hail. Book by phone or at remiserías. Good for airports and suburbs.
Driving & Rental Cars
International Driving Permit required
Argentina requires an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive or rent a car legally. Rental agencies often won't ask — but if you're pulled over, local police may require it and fines can be significant. Also required if your license isn't in the local language or script. Costs around $20, takes about a week, and you can't get one once you've left.
Side of road
Right
Speed limit (km/h)
40 city / 130 hwy
Alcohol limit
Zero tolerance
Right on red
Not allowed
Min rental age
21
Renting a car in Argentina
- Book early for busy seasons, and book an automatic ahead of time if you need one (manual is the default in many countries)
- Choose a "full to full" fuel policy so you only pay for the fuel you use
- Use a credit card in the driver's name, since the desk will hold a deposit on it
- Photograph or film the car at pickup, including every existing scratch
- Ask about tolls, cross-border fees and extra drivers before you sign
- Minimum rental age here is 21, and drivers under 25 often pay a young-driver fee
EconomyBookings
Compare rental car prices in Argentina across hundreds of agencies — often cheaper than booking direct.
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Safety & Accessibility
For Women Travelers
- Avoid walking alone late at night in La Boca, Constitución, and outer barrios
- Use Uber/Cabify instead of street-hailing taxis, especially at night
- Keep bags close in crowded areas (subte, markets, San Telmo feria)
- Catcalling (piropos) happens but is generally not threatening
LGBTQ+ Friendliness
Argentina was the first country in Latin America to legalize same-sex marriage (2010). Buenos Aires is one of South America's most LGBTQ+-friendly cities with a vibrant scene in Palermo and San Telmo.
- Buenos Aires has a large, visible Pride celebration in November
- Palermo and San Telmo are the most LGBTQ+-friendly neighborhoods
- Outside Buenos Aires, attitudes are more conservative but generally accepting
In Partnership With
Everywhere Is Queer
Want to check out local queer businesses on your trip? Everywhere Is Queer maps queer-owned bars, cafés, restaurants, and shops so you can spend your money where it matters. Not every city is on the map yet, but coverage is growing fast — check if your destination is live.
Wheelchair Accessibility
Buenos Aires has improving but inconsistent accessibility. Newer buildings and malls are generally accessible, but historic areas, sidewalks, and public transit can be challenging.
- Subte Line H is the most accessible with elevators at all stations
- Most malls and newer restaurants are wheelchair accessible
- Cobblestone streets in San Telmo and La Boca are difficult for wheelchairs
- Accessible taxis can be booked through specialized services
Pickpocket Hotspots
- La Boca (outside Caminito tourist strip)
- Constitución train station
- San Telmo Sunday market (Feria de San Telmo)
- Retiro bus terminal
- Crowded subte cars during rush hour
Travel Insurance
Don't travel without coverage
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Scams to Watch Out For
Table cover phone theft
A vendor approaches your table at a café or restaurant selling scarves, trinkets, or papers. They place the item over your phone on the table, chat briefly, then pick the item back up — with your phone hidden underneath. You don't notice until they've walked away.
Prevention: Never leave your phone on the table. Keep it in your pocket or bag. If a vendor places anything on your table, immediately check beneath it before they leave.
Fake bills
Counterfeit 1000 and 2000 peso notes are common, especially in tourist areas. You may receive them as change from taxis, street vendors, or even some shops.
Prevention: Learn to check for watermarks and security threads. Compare new bills against ones you know are real. Avoid breaking large bills at small vendors.
Taxi meter tricks
Some taxi drivers use rigged meters, take longer routes, or 'forget' to start the meter. This is most common at airports and train stations.
Prevention: Use Uber or Cabify instead. If taking a taxi, confirm the meter is running from the start. Have Google Maps open to verify the route. Radio taxis (called by phone) are safer than street hails.
Mustard/ketchup distraction
Someone 'accidentally' spills mustard, ketchup, or bird droppings on you. A helpful stranger offers to clean you up while an accomplice picks your pockets or bag.
Prevention: If anything is spilled on you, walk away quickly. Don't let strangers help you clean up. Move to a safe, well-lit area before dealing with it yourself.
Iguazu Falls unofficial guides
Near Iguazu Falls, unlicensed guides offer 'special tours' at inflated prices, or unlicensed boat operators offer rides that may not meet safety standards. Some touts in Puerto Iguazú town also sell overpriced packages.
Prevention: Book boat tours and park visits only through the official park website or your hotel. The park is well-organized and doesn't require a guide. Buy tickets at the gate or online at iguazuargentina.com.
Traveler Safety Essentials
Traveler Safety Essentials
These safety tips apply everywhere you travel. Small habits can prevent the most common security problems travelers face — from phone theft to home break-ins.
Don't forget anything
Turn these tips into a trackable checklist so nothing slips through the cracks.
Weather & Climate
Argentina's climate varies by region. Here's a seasonal overview to help you plan.
Dec – Feb
19-30°C (66-86°F)
Medium rainfall
Hot summer, carnival season
Mar – May
13-23°C (55-73°F)
Low rainfall
Mild autumn, comfortable
Jun – Aug
6-14°C (43-57°F)
Low rainfall
Coldest month, school holidays
Sep – Nov
13-23°C (55-73°F)
Medium rainfall
Pleasant spring, ideal for outdoor activities
Packing Tip
Check the specific month you're traveling for detailed packing suggestions. Weather can vary significantly by region and elevation.
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Tap Water
Tap water is safe to drink.
Taste can differ from home, and some people prefer filtered or bottled water anyway. A refillable bottle saves money and plastic.
Power & Electricity
Voltage
220V
Frequency
50Hz
Plug Types
C, I
Argentina uses Type C (European 2-pin) and Type I (Australian-style 3-pin) plugs. US/Canadian travelers need both an adapter and a voltage converter for older electronics. Most modern phone/laptop chargers are dual-voltage (100-240V) and just need an adapter.
What You May Need
- •From US/Canada/Japan: Likely need adapter and possibly converter for non-dual-voltage devices
- •From UK: Likely need adapter, voltage usually compatible
- •From Europe/Australia: Check plug type, voltage usually compatible
EPICKA 70W GaN travel adapter
3 USB-C + 2 USB-A ports with 70W GaN fast charging, so the whole family's devices charge off one plug. Not a voltage converter.
Shop on AmazonAnker power bank
A dead phone is as useless as a stolen one. Compact fast-charging backup power.
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Most modern phone chargers and laptops work with 100-240V. Check your device's power adapter for compatibility before traveling.
Language & Communication
Languages Spoken
Official Language(s)
Commonly Spoken
English Proficiency
English spoken in tourist areas of Buenos Aires and upscale hotels. Very limited outside the capital. Learn basic Spanish or use a translation app.
Essential Phrases
Hola
Hello
OH-lah
Gracias
Thank you
GRAH-see-ahs
¿Cuánto sale?
How much? (Argentine style)
KWAN-toh SAH-leh
Che
Hey / buddy (very Argentine)
CHEH
Dale
OK / sure / let's go
DAH-leh
La cuenta, por favor
The bill, please
lah KWEN-tah por fah-VOR
Dietary Options
🌱 Vegan Friendly
Buenos Aires has a growing vegan scene, especially in Palermo. Look for 'vegano' on menus. Outside BA, options are limited — Argentine cuisine is meat-centric. Empanadas de humita (corn) and provoleta (grilled cheese) are vegetarian staples that most restaurants have.
🥗 Vegetarian Friendly
Vegetarian options are available at most restaurants — pizza, pasta, empanadas, and salads are widespread. Buenos Aires has excellent vegetarian restaurants. In smaller cities, ask for 'sin carne' and you'll usually be accommodated.
🌾 Gluten-Free Friendly
Challenging due to heavy use of wheat in empanadas, pasta, milanesas, and bread. Look for 'sin TACC' labels (Argentina's celiac-safe certification). Buenos Aires has dedicated gluten-free bakeries and restaurants, but options shrink dramatically outside the capital.
Traveling with a Pet
Requires standard international export certificates and localized agricultural agency validation desk check-ins.
Timeline
10-15 days before travel
Quarantine Risk
None
Regulatory Framework
Local agency signoff (ICA, SENASA, AGROCALIDAD, SAG).
Key Constraints
Requires external parasite treatment (ticks/fleas) within 10-15 days of departure. Vaccination logs must show clear serial numbers.
Pet Culture
Exploding urban nomad support. Major rental hubs packed with local pet culture, leash laws, and pet fashion.
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Cultural Tips
Greet everyone with a kiss on the cheek (one, right side) — even people you've just met. This is standard for all genders.
Dinner starts at 9-10 PM. Restaurants don't open until 8:30 PM. Arriving at 7 PM will get you an empty restaurant.
Mate (MAH-teh) is a shared herbal tea ritual — if someone offers you mate, accept it. Don't stir the bombilla (metal straw) or say 'gracias' unless you're done drinking.
Sunday is asado (BBQ) day — a family and friends ritual. If invited, bring wine (Malbec) and arrive fashionably late.
Argentines are passionate about fútbol. Don't casually compare Boca and River fans — the rivalry is serious.
Shops and restaurants close for a long siesta in smaller cities (roughly 1-5 PM). Plan your day accordingly.
Local Quirks & Fun Facts
Try the 'choripán' (chorizo sandwich) at any street stall — it's the unofficial national snack
Dulce de leche is in EVERYTHING — ice cream, pastries, pancakes, and eaten by the spoonful
Ask for 'medialunas' (croissants) at any café — they come 'de manteca' (buttery) or 'de grasa' (savory)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Not understanding the blue dollar rate — you could be paying 30-50% more for everything if you only use ATMs or credit cards
Underestimating distances — Argentina is the 8th largest country in the world. Buenos Aires to Patagonia is a 3-hour flight, not a day trip.
Showing up at restaurants before 9 PM — you'll eat alone or find the kitchen isn't open yet
Not carrying cash — many places outside Buenos Aires are cash-only, and ATM withdrawal limits are very low
Skipping the SUBE card — you can't ride buses or the subte without one. Buy it immediately at a kiosk.
Tours & Experiences
Book ahead — the best tours sell out fast.
Tours and experiences in Argentina
Browse bookable tours, tickets and day trips on Viator, our tours partner.
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Gear to make your trip easier
Pack smart
4BAGAIL compression packing cubes
Six compression cubes plus vacuum bags and a hand pump, so you can squeeze bulky items down hard when mesh alone isn't enough. Sold as a bundle; every piece is also available on its own.
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Notabag packable backpack/tote
Folds into its own pocket, then opens into a backpack or tote for market runs, day trips, and overflow on the way home.
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FYY electronics organizer
Keeps chargers, cables, and adapters untangled in one place, so you're not digging through your bag at security.
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TSA toiletry containers (3oz set)
Refillable, TSA-approved bottles so you carry your own products in a carry-on without the airport surprise.
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Rest on the way
7Mavogel sleep mask
Blocks light completely for sleep on planes, in bright rooms, or across time zones — contoured so nothing presses on your eyes.
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Sea to Summit Aeros neck pillow
Inflatable, so it packs down to nothing but still holds your head up on long flights and buses.
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Twelve South AirFly SE
Pairs your own headphones with any 3.5mm jack — seatback screens, gym equipment, whatever doesn't have Bluetooth. Reusable, so you're not relying on (or wasting) a disposable pair every flight.
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Children's EarPlanes
Reduces the pressure change in a child's ears during takeoff and landing — less pain, less crying. 3-pair value pack.
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Pedialyte electrolyte powder packets
Single-serve oral rehydration packets — lightweight, no fridge needed, and often not available at your destination.
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Compression socks
Keep your legs from swelling and aching on long flights and bus rides — the cheap habit frequent flyers swear by.
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Loop Quiet earplugs
Reusable, low-profile earplugs that dull engine drone, snorers, and noisy streets so you actually rest.
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Keep it safe
9
NordPass
Keep every login and a passport photo encrypted, so losing your phone doesn't lose your accounts. Use code TRAVELREDDI for 4 months free on a paid plan.
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NordVPN
Encrypts your connection on sketchy public and hotel WiFi. Use code TRAVELREDDI for 4 months free on a paid plan.
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Apple AirTag
Slip one into a checked bag, daypack or even your wallet, then find it in Find My. For iPhone users.
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Tile tracker
The same idea for Android and iPhone. Great in luggage, a daypack, or a wallet.
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Pacsafe crossbody
Locking zippers and a slash-resistant strap. The bag I wish I'd had when mine got unclipped.
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Peak Gear money belt
A hidden belt for cash and a backup card, out of reach of pickpockets.
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Guard Dog door lock
For when you're in the room. Adds a sturdy lock to almost any hotel or rental door so no one can open it while you're inside or asleep.
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TSA locks with cable
For when you're out. Use the cable to lock your bags to each other or to a fixed piece of furniture, so they're harder to grab and more obvious if someone tries. TSA-approved, 2-pack.
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TORRAS phone lanyard
Keeps your phone on your body, much harder to snatch out of your hand.
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Weather ready
3BAODINI mini umbrella
Packs into a daypack and blocks both UV and sudden downpours — a travel-day staple when the forecast can't make up its mind.
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Diveblues portable fan
Rechargeable handheld fan for hot, humid days and stuffy transit — stands hands-free when you need both hands.
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