Argentina
Visited
At a glance
- Region
- South America
- Capital
- Buenos Aires
- Population
- 45.7 million (2024)
- Area
- 2,780,400 km²
- Languages
- Guaraní, Spanish
- Currency
- Argentine peso (ARS)
- Drives on the
- right
- Calling code
- +54
Visited Still to go Click a pin or country to read more. Zoom with + and −, a double-click or a pinch.
Before you go
Overview
Argentina is the second-largest country in South America, stretching from subtropical forests in the north to glaciers in Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego. Buenos Aires, its capital, is known for its European-style architecture and tango.
History
Spain colonised the area in the 16th century, and Argentina declared independence in 1816. The 20th century saw Peronism, military dictatorships and the 1982 Falklands War.
Food & culture
Asado, the Argentine barbecue, is central to social life, along with empanadas, dulce de leche, Malbec wine and mate tea.
Wildlife
Península Valdés has southern right whales, elephant seals and orcas, and the Iberá Wetlands are home to capybaras and caimans.
Festivals & events
The Mendoza Grape Harvest Festival, Buenos Aires Tango Festival and Carnival in Gualeguaychú are highlights.
Things to see
Iguazú Falls, the Perito Moreno Glacier, Buenos Aires, the Andes around Mendoza and Salta, and Ushuaia.
Interesting facts
Aconcagua is the highest mountain outside Asia. Ushuaia is often called the southernmost city in the world.
Cities & towns I’ve visited
- Azul
- Bariloche
- Buenos Aires
- Comodoro Rivadavia
- El Calafate
- Ezeiza
- Puerto Iguazú
- Puerto Madryn
- Río Gallegos
- Salta
- Ushuaia
