When the Spanish conquistadors arrived here in the 1520s they found silver, and named the country from the Latin word argentums. Between the Andes mountain range in the west and the southern Atlantic Ocean, you will find the beautiful country of Argentina.
The huge capital Buenos Aires offers European elegance as well as creative Latino energy, with a variety of colourful barrios (neighbourhoods). Famous for its juicy beef steaks, red wine from the province of Mendoza and home of the sexy tango, Argentina and its people are as passionate about soccer as they are about Eva Peron, one of the most powerful women of our time. Stunning landscapes, including rivers, lakes and mountains as well as coastal areas and seas, proves that Argentina has got it all.
Argentina Travel Guide
Full Name
Argentine Republic
Former Name
Capital City
Buenos Aires
Government Type
Republic
Area Size
2,776,890 sq km 1,072,157 sq miles
Time Zone
GMT/UTC -3 ()
Climate
Because of longitudinal and elevation amplitudes, Argentina is subject to a variety of climates. As a rule, the climate is predominantly temperate with extremes ranging from subtropical in the north to subpolar in the far south. The north of the country is characterized by very hot, humid summers with mild drier winters, and is subject to periodic droughts. Central Argentina has hot summers with thunderstorms (in western Argentina producing some of the world's largest hail), and cool winters. The southern regions have warm summers and cold winters with heavy snowfall, especially in mountainous zones. Higher elevations at all latitudes experience cooler conditions.
Geography
Second-largest country in South America (after Brazil); strategic location relative to sea lanes between the South Atlantic and the South Pacific Oceans (Strait of Magellan, Beagle Channel, Drake Passage); Cerro Aconcagua is South America's tallest mountain, while Laguna del Carbon is the lowest point in the Western Hemisphere.
Languages
Spanish (official), English, Italian, German, French
Culture
The culture of Argentina is as varied as the country's geography and mix of ethnic groups. Modern Argentine culture has been largely influenced by European immigration. There are also some Amerindian and African influences, particularly in the fields of music and art. Buenos Aires and other cities show a mixture of architectural styles imported from Europe. In the case of older settlements (and of older preserved neighborhoods within cities), modern styles appear mixed with colonial features, relics from the Spanish-ruled past. Museums, cinemas and galleries are abundant in all the large urban centers, as well as traditional establishments such as literary bars, or bars offering live music of a variety of genres.
History
Following independence from Spain in 1816, Argentina experienced periods of internal political conflict between conservatives and liberals and between civilian and military factions. After World War II, a long period of Peronist authoritarian rule and interference in subsequent governments was followed by a military junta that took power in 1976. Democracy returned in 1983, and has persisted despite numerous challenges, the most formidable of which was a severe economic crisis in 2001-02 that led to violent public protests and the resignation of several interim presidents.
Travel Information
The national airline is AerolÃneas Argentinas (AR). Ezeiza Ministro Pistarini International Airport (EZE) is 37km from Buenos Aires. Regular shuttle buses connect to the city (journey time - 40 minutes). Taxis and private hire cars are also available. There is also a coach connection to Jorge Newbery airport (locally called Aeroparque) for domestic flight connections. To reach the city by car, drive on the Teniente General Ricchieri freeway. Airport facilities are 24-hour bank, bureau de change, ATMs, restaurants, tourist information kiosk, duty-free shops and car hire. Departure Tax US$18. For flights to Montevideo (Uruguay) and regional flights, the departure tax is US$8. Passengers in transit and children under two years of age are exempt. Visitors are advised to check with their airline or travel agent as the departure tax is subject to frequent changes. There is also an immigration tax of US$10 on all international flights. Main ports: Buenos Aires, Quequén and BahÃa Blanca. Sea/river links: Buquebus and Ferrylineas connect Colonia and Montevideo in Uruguay with Buenos Aires. There are also ferry connections with Paraguay via the Paraná River. Argentina has a good network of roads, and there are well-maintained routes from Uruguay, Brazil, Paraguay, Bolivia and Chile. Cross-border coach companies include Pluma, Tur Bus and El Rápido Internacional.
Accommodation
Hotels range in standard from the most luxurious in Buenos Aires to the lowest class in the rural areas. In Buenos Aires, the cheaper hotels can mostly be found around Avenida de Mayo. Generally, service is excellent. Most hotels add approximately 3% tourism tax, 24% service charge for food and drink and 15% room tax. Check correct charges when booking. Most are air-conditioned and have good restaurants.
Visa Requirements
Visas not required by nationals of the EU, Australia, Canada and USA for stays of up to 90 days (extensions for a further 90 days are possible for some nationals; contact the consulate (or consular section at embassy) for details). Visa exemptions mentioned above are for tourist purposes only. Business visa exemptions apply to nationals of the UK, Australia, USA, Belgium, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Hungary, Ireland, Latvia, Lithuania, The Netherlands, Poland, Romania and Sweden for business visits of up to 90 days. Nationals not referred to above are advised to contact the embassy to check visa requirements. Argentine minors travelling to or from Argentina, if unaccompanied by their parents or travelling with a single parent, must carry their parents’, other parent's or legal guardian’s authorisation to travel, which must be certified by an Argentine Consul if issued abroad. Valid passport required by all nationals of countries referred to above.
Getting Around
Air travel within Argentina is well-developed and efficient. AerolÃneas Argentinas (AR) serves many domestic destinations from its key hubs in Buenos Aires, Cordoba and Bariloche. Southern Winds also serves key destinations including Mendoza, Ushuaia, Mar del Plata, Salta and Iguazu. After years of neglect, the government has pledged to re-establish some long-distance rail links and is funding a new high-speed line between Buenos Aires and Rosario. But for the time being trains remain infrequent and slow-going. Major privatisation programmes have resulted in many trunk roads being upgraded, and roads are generally in good condition. Rural roads, composed of packed dirt, can become impassable after rain. Nonetheless, buses are considered to be a more reliable form of long-distance transport than trains. The ‘A' roads are the autopistas (motorways) and those labelled ‘R' are rutas (roads) - tolls exist on all main roads. Visitors aged 21 or over may hire a car in Argentina. Car hire is available in most towns and cities. Buenos Aires is the only Argentine city with an underground train service, known as the Subte. The Subte has five lines and is generally clean, safe, fast and efficient. Subtepass tickets can be purchased at station entrances in denominations of one, two, five, 10 and 30 journeys. Overland urban trains also serve the capital city and its suburbs. Trains and trolleybuses operate in Argentina's second city Rosario. Colectivos (local buses) operate on main thoroughfares in all large towns and cities. Taxis are readily available and can be hailed from the side of the road but it is advisable to used recommended remises or private hire cars.
Health & Safety
There is a low risk of yellow fever, cholera and malaria in some northern provinces. Outbreaks of dengue fever are on the increase, and visitors are advised to avoid mosquito bites as there is no effective treatment for it. Hepatitis A vaccination is recommended before travel to Argentina as well as a typhoid vaccinations for those who might eat or drink outside major restaurants and hotels. Water is safe to drink in major towns and cities. Medical facilities are good in the major cities. Treatment is expensive, however, and medical insurance is advised. Asthma, sinus and bronchial ailments can be aggravated by pollution in Buenos Aires. Those with specific conditions should bring a sufficient quantity of medical supplies and medicines for the trip. Although the political and economic crisis is over, there are still periodic outbreaks of social unrest and demonstrations. Visitors are advised to avoid such public gatherings and keep abreast with news to know whether any political unrest is expected. However, there is no specific threat to foreigners and travellers should not be discouraged from travelling throughout the country. Be alert to bag-snatchers, pick-pocketers and con-men, particularly in crowded areas in Buenos Aires, on public transport and in popular tourist haunts, such as San Telmo.
National Holidays
1 Jan - New Year's Day. 2 Apr - Veterans' Day (Malvinas). 6 Apr - Good Friday. 1 May - Labour Day. 25 May - National Day (Anniversary of the 1810 Revolution). 18 Jun - National Flag Day (Belgrano Day). 9 Jul - National Independence Day. 20 Aug - San MartÃn Day (Anniversary of the Death of General José de San MartÃn). 15 Oct - Columbus Day. 8 Dec - Immaculate Conception Day. 25 Dec - Christmas Day.
Currency
Argentine Peso (ARS)
Electricity
220V 50Hz
Working Hours
Office hours: Mon-Fri 9.00am - 12.00noon and 2.00pm - 7.00pm.
Emergency Numbers
Ambulance: 107, Fire: 100, Police: 101
