19 Argentina is the 2nd largest country in South America. It has a population of 40 million, of which approximately 1/3 live in the capital, Buenos Aires. In such a massive area, the geography is immense and diverse, with an extremely varied climate. From the hot and dry northwest to the thunderous glaciers of Patagonia, from the staggering Andes mountain range to the fertile Pampas, it’s possible to find and do everything in this land of contrasts. Argentina houses several of the world’s natural wonders including the highest peak in the Americas, Aconcagua, and the impressive Iguazu Falls. Argentina must-tries include tasting some of the world’s best meat and wine, dancing a seductive tango and drinking the addictive mate. ARGENTINA
Argentina introduction, Distance chart, Buenos Aires, Tigre, La Plata, Rosario, Córdoba, Posadas, San Ignacio, Puerto Iguazú, Tucumán, Tafí del Valle, Amaicha del Valle, Cafayate, Salta, Tilcara, Humahuaca, La Quiaca, Mendoza, San Rafael, Malargue, San Carlos de Bariloche, El Bolsón, Esquel, Las Grutas, Puerto Madryn, Puerto Pirámides, El Chaltén, El Calafate, Ushuaia.
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Transcript
19
Argentina is the 2nd largest
country in South America.
It has a population of 40 million, of which
approximately 1/3 live in the capital, Buenos Aires.
In such a massive area, the geography is immense and diverse, with an extremely
varied climate. From the hot and dry northwest to the thunderous glaciers of
Patagonia, from the staggering Andes mountain range to the fertile Pampas, it’s
possible to find and do everything in this land of contrasts. Argentina houses several of the world’s natural wonders including the highest
peak in the Americas, Aconcagua, and the impressive Iguazu Falls.
Argentina must-tries include tasting some of the world’s best meat and wine, dancing a seductive tango and
drinking the addictive mate.
ARGENTINA
20
• It is normal to kiss once on the cheek when you say hello and goodbye.• Be aware that lunch time is from 1-3 pm and dinner starts at 9 pm or later. Also, dancing clubs aren’t open until 1 am or later. • Make sure you have a spare coin handy to give the baggage handler at the bus station, it’s normal to give them a small tip.
General Tips
How to make phone calls in Argentina
Distance Chart in km
** Useful Information about Argentina **
4553344
0261-4553344
number:+54-261-4553344 number: +54-9-261-5446721
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Plaza* de Mayo: Visit the political centre of Argentina where people come to express their opinions. Thursdays at 3:30 pm, the famous Madres de Plaza de Mayo gather to remember those who disappeared during the dictatorship. Nearby is the Metropolitan Cathedral, the Casa Rosada (with Evita’s famous balcony), and the Cabildo – the colonial city hall.
The Obelisk: Go to celebrate Argentina’s next sporting victory at this city landmark located at the intersection of Corrientes and 9 de Julio avenues.
San Telmo: Wind through this charming old barrio* where cobbled streets, colourful cafes, numerous antique shops and live Sunday tango shows centre around Plaza* Dorrego and Defensa street.
La Boca: Meander along Caminito, a pedestrian walkway lined with murals, statues and colourful corrugated metal houses, that is home to many artists’ studios. Catch a football game in La Bombonera (the chocolate box), home to Boca Juniors and Maradona, and/or pop into their museum during the day.
Palermo: Stroll through the Japanese and Botanical gardens and the Zoo, followed by the Bosques* de Palermo, the lungs of the city. Palermo Viejo (old) and Chico (small) are more residential and have Spanish-style architecture. Palermo Hollywood and Soho are filled with lots of restaurants, hip bars, nightclubs, coffee places and design shops.
Recoleta: Walk by designer shops, posh restaurants and tree-lined avenues in this barrio* that has a distinct Parisian feel. The cemetery is renowned for its illustrious tenants including Evita. Visit the large arts and crafts market and the nearby Centro Cultural Recoleta, which hosts the latest art exhibitions.
Puerto Madero: Head to this century-long abandoned port which was rescued in the 90’s by an urban renewal scheme resulting in apartments, a promenade and elegant restaurants.
Tigre: Get out of town to El Tigre delta region, and take a boat trip along the meandering rivers and to Martín García Island - a natural and ecological reserve filled with birdlife and a maze of small inner islands.
Buenos Aires is considered to be one of the most elegant and sophisticated cities in South America. Located on the shore of the Río* de la Plata, it is a huge metropolis with a core of majestic architectural glories, wonderful museums, modern art galleries and numerous theatres. Don’t leave without having a tango experience!
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The Centre region is known as the land of the gauchos, the Pampas plains are amongst the richest areas in Argentina. Northwest of these plains are the Sierras de Córdoba. The Litoral region is defined by a huge river system. The area has exotic subtropical
vegetation and countless animal species great for wildlife viewing.
CENTRE & LITORAL
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Argentina CORDOBA
Córdoba is Argentina’s second largest city. Downtown you can find the Manzana Jesuítica (Jesuit quarters), declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. While you are there, visit the cathedral, the University of Córdoba (the oldest university in Argentina), the cabildo (town hall), Montserrat College, and the churches of the Compañía de Jesús, San Francisco and San Roque. Hopping nightlife is in the youthful Nueva Córdoba neighbourhood. Close by is Sarmiento Park, the largest park in town, home to the zoo and the fine art museum.:: Alta Gracia: 35 km from Córdoba city you can find the Jesuit Estancia (World Heritage Site by UNESCO) and the “Che” Guevara House and Museum.:: Quebrada del Condorito National Park: this v-shaped deep canyon is a protected wildlife area and is great for hiking or condor watching.:: Los Gigantes: located 90 km north from Córdoba city in the Sierras de Córdoba, these pure granite formations have steep rock walls and are very popular amongst climbers and rappelers. :: Villa General Belgrano: this picturesque German-influenced town, 90 km south from Córdoba city, has a quaint downtown and an October beer festival.:: La Cumbre: located 98 km from Cordoba city, it’s a beautiful town due to the rugged mountain landscape, filled with winding roads and big stony English houses. West of La Cumbre is Cuchi Corral, a hill with a vast natural balcony with views over the Río Pinto valley. One of Argentina’s top spots for paragliding!Tip: you can travel from Córdoba to the gorgeous area of Villa de Merlo (check Cuyo section) in the northeast of the neighboring San Luis Province.
and nightclubs, with a friendly and cool staff, Morada Hostel is an excellent
option. They have bedrooms for six to eight people and different types of
private rooms (single, double, triple, quadruple and quintuple) with private
or shared bathrooms. Their price includes quality accommodation with
breakfast, towels, bedding, fully equipped kitchen, terrace with barbecue,
cable TV, Wi-Fi in the rooms and free Internet, lockers, luggage store and 24
hour reception. They also offer different tours
(trekking, skydiving, paragliding, horseriding
in the beautiful mountains of Córdoba and
more) that will make your stay in Córdoba
a lot of fun!
BBQ every Friday! Hostel Morada
10% off at check-in
with Get South!
CORDOBA
:: The Paraná River and its Delta islands: a 45 km wild nature strip, composed of wide sandy beaches and abundance of animal and vegetation diversity, some of which can be explored by kayak or boat. :: Parks and beaches: located on the shores of the city, with beautiful river views and green spaces. The most popular mainland beach is Balneario La Florida, located 8 km from the city centre. There are plenty of bars, restaurants and excellent amenities.
Rosario is a cosmopolitan city located 310 km north of Buenos Aires on the banks of one of the most important rivers of South America, the Paraná River, and with the unmistakable and important National Flag Monument (Monumento Nacional a la Bandera). Rosario offers a wide range of possibilties to make your stay an unforgettable experience.
Rosario is definitely a great place to enjoy the nightlife. The city offers an abundance of culture with plenty of music, theatre and artistic performances. Be sure to enjoy one of the many attractions found along the Paraná River banks, i.e. parks, bars, restaurants and beaches.
ROSARIO
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Argentina
LA COMUNIDAD HOSTEL Big spacious areas with high ceilings, a
relaxed TV/DVD-room and a handy kitchen,
this famous hostel in Rosario doesn’t just offer
you a cheap bed in one of their 3 comfy dorms
with lockers or private rooms (double or quad) with shared bathroom; their goal is
to share the travel spirit, to make you meet new people and to let you feel at ease.
All shared rooms have fans and private rooms have aircon/heating and your energy
level rises after guzzling up the tasty breakfast. BBQs on Wednesdays and live DJ’s
on Fridays, Saturdays and public holidays at their cool bar to hammer down a beer
or cocktail (from 9pm to 2am) will bring color to your stay. The hostel
rents out bikes and for travel info and bookings of activities or
transport, the bilingual staff is ready for you! Location
right in downtown, 4 blocks from the Paraná River.
Hotel Altea: an affordable hotel that offers singles, doubles and quad rooms, all with spring box mattreses, cable TV, telephone and private bathroom. Breakfast included.Rioja 768, tel: (0341) 4213406, www.hotelaltea.com.ar
:: Monumento a la Bandera (Flag Monument): the Argentinean flag was raised for the first time ever at this site. The tower is 70 m tall, so take the lift to the top and enjoy spectacular views of the city and river.:: Che Guevara: born in Rosario in 1928. Learn more about this emblemic figure while walking the Che Guevara Circuit that takes you from his house he was born in, via Plaza de La Cooperacion, Centro de Estudios Latinoamericanos Ernesto Che Guevara, Parque Indepencia (where he started his 1st trip through America) to the Che Monument.:: Nightlife: with so many restaurants, bars, pubs and clubs, in both the city centre and the Costanera, Rosario offers a great atmosphere for fun. :: Paseo del Siglo: travel back in time and see a large concentration of late 19th and early 20th century buildings. :: Street markets and fairs: the city’s craft markets and fairs are a meeting place and a very pleasant area to stroll for thousands of tourists and local people. Handmade products and art like pottery, sculptures and paintings created of a variety of materials like wood, leather and stone, and knitted fabrics are made and sold at the stalls along the banks of the river, in the area from the National Flag Memorial to the Contemporary Museum.
LA CASONA DE DON JAIME II & SUITES La Casona de Don Jaime II & Suites has comfy
dorms with lockers & shared bathrooms or stylish private rooms with ensuite bathrooms. All rooms have fans and optional aircon and a nice breakfast with fruits, cereals, medialunas … is included. This XX century house has been revamped to offer comfort and fun with a small bar open from 8 pm to 1 am Thursday through Saturday with great drink specials
and karaoke nights. The hostel also has a TV room with board games, an outdoor patio with a BBQ grill and a fully-equipped
kitchen. The downtown location is superb, within walking distance from the city’s main attractions and with a bus stop at the corner to go to Rosario’s vibrant beach area. The hostel’s nice staff has all the area info for you, including
the nightlife’s secrets, and they’ll help you organize boat & kayak tours on the river, skydiving, horseback riding and more.
Take your pick from 10% off your stay at check-in,
5th night for free or welcoming drink! Casona de Don Jaime Rosario
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Argentina
Esteros del Iberá is one of those places that everyone wants to visit, but very few actually make it here. The truth is that it is a bit of a tricky place to get to, it is a couple of hours by 4x4 or by a bumpy bus ride from the closest towns and civilisation.... Mercedes is the usual and easiest starting point and here you can book a transfer or take a bus. For adventure addicts it’s also possible to organize a transfer from/to Posadas, a really rough and challenging alternative! But its remoteness is what makes it such a special place. In the middle of humid wetlands, the Esteros del Iberá have cultivated one of the most important and one of the most unique ecosystem’s in the Americas. A prime spot for nature
spotting, here you can do walks, horseback rides and boat tours to see over 360 bird species, lots of alligators (yacarés), the world’s largest rodents (carpinchos/capybaras), wild deer and the floating islands of the world’s second largest wetlands. The base to stay here is the small town of Colonia Carlos Pellegrini. With a small population and only a couple shops and restaurants, this is a very relaxed and slow moving town, but its tranquility is the best way to enjoy the nature and relax in Argentina’s wild wetlands. No ATM and limited petrol in Colonia Carlos Pellegrini.
or Posadas). The cabins from 2 to 6 people are budget friendly & nice with lots of
green around. You’ll have a private bathroom, a kitchen and matrimonial or twin
beds and your brekkie is included. You just want a room, you’re a solo traveler
or want to do laundry? Just pop the question and they’ll have
the solution! To spot tons of wildlife, join in on El Paso’s well
organized trips by boat, on foot (day & nocturnal), or by horse into
next to the bus terminal in Mercedes and at the entrance of Colonia
Carlos Pelegrini (with Wi-Fi). Open all year. They’ll answer your mails
in Spanish, English or German.10% on accommodation, trips and food!
El Paso Cabañas Iberá
Restaurant La Vieja Balsa: A special experience is trying one of the different dishes with yacaré (cayman) meat, especially bred for consumption, or capybara and venison. La Vieja Balsa is cozy and opened for lunch & dinner.
Posadas is the capital of the sub tropical Misiones province. Sat next alongside the Paraná river and opposite Paraguay, this city has hot, humid weather year round and is bathed with reddish earth and thick green vegetation. Romantic squares and churches around the city were built by the Jesuits and take you back into history. Walking through the city you should visit the native Indian tribe’s Guarani handcraft market by the 9 de Julio main square, the mate museum, the churches and cathedral and enjoy the waterfront which has been recently developed. From there you can also take a boat trip on the river which is particularly spectacular at sunset, or you can sunbathe on the sand beach at El Brete. From the Parana river you can see Encarnación city in Paraguay, which you can also visit for a day trip by bus where lots of Argentineans go to get cheaper electronics. Part of the wealth of the river is its fish - make sure to try some of the excellent river fish including Pacú, Dorado, Boga and Surubí, and if you like fishing then you can organize fishing trips on the river. For evening entertainment don’t miss some local folk music at bars and restaurants. Posadas is famed for its Litoral folk Festival each November. The nearby Jesuit Ruins is one of the biggest attractions here and most people head to San Ignacio which is an hour away by bus or car.
POSADAS
POSADAS
HOSTEL POSADEÑA LINDA Bolívar 1439 +54 376 4439238
of Posadas with a supermarket around the corner, at only a few blocks from
the main plaza and shopping street, and 6 blocks from the splendid riverside
promenade. Posadeña Linda is a small cozy hostel, with all facilities like a
kitchen, TV room and a chill out patio. The 4 private rooms (matrimonial, twin
& triple) and the 2 dorms (6-4 beds, with lockers) come with breakfast and all
have a private bathroom and aircon (except the 6 bed dorm). Adriana and her
crew will point you out what to do in the Posadas region and
arrange the necessary bookings. Enjoy lounging about at
the hostel’s small swimming pool with your
fellow globe-trotters!
Hostel Posadeña Linda Hostel Posadas Misiones
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Argentina SAN IGNACIO
This small town is the base for exploring the UNESCO Jesuit ruins: San Ignacio Mini, Santa Ana and Nuestra Señora de Loreto. The San Ignacio ruins are within walking distance and the 4000 year old settlement is full of history and intrigue. Ruin highlights include The Cabildo, The Plaza de Armas, the church and the central patio which are all explained about during the frequent tours (also in English). The new night time show (weather dependent) has a unique performance using lights, water and sound to tell the historic stories from the beginning of the Jesuits arrival through to their expulsion. The other ruins are also popular with visitors but require transport as Santa Ana is 15kms from the town and Nuestra Señora de Loreto is 13kms away. In the town, Casa de Horacio Quiroga is the house museum of one of South America’s most renowned writers who wrote The Jungle Book. To see some of the fantastic jungle which inspired his writing, visit the Parque Provincial del Teyú Cuare nature reserve 8kms away with charming landscapes, river views, different treks and a spectacular views from the 120m high Penon (free entry). For a bit of fun in the sunshine or to play beach volleyball visit the Playita del Sol 3.5kms away where you can also light a BBQ with friends. Santo Pipo town, 20kms away, is another day trip worth making to visit the yerbatera Piporé and see how the yerba mate (native herb tea) is made.
Puerto Iguazú serves as a hub for visitors to go to the world famous Iguazu Falls, chosen as one of the New Natural Seven Wonders of the World. The Iguazú National Park & its 275 falls, a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site, belong on everybody’s bucket list! Take minimum a full day to explore the larger Argentinean side with the gigantic Garganta del Diablo (Devil’s Throat). Boat trips to the base of the falls and activities to explore the jungle, like 4x4 expeditions, horse riding, canopy, rappelling, trekking and traditional villages visits are possible. A half-day visit to the Brazilian side with its magnificent views also shouldn’t be missed. Close to Puerto Iguazú town is the Hito Tres Fronteras viewpoint where the rivers intersect and Argentina, Brasil & Paraguay meet. Walk or cycle, or buy a ticket at Iguazú’s harbor for a boat trip or evening sunset cruise to this special spot. The Jardín de los Picaflores (humming bird garden) downtown and the Güirá Oga animal rehabilitation center and La Aripuca, just outside town, are definitely worth the visit as well as the Wanda Mines (40km away). Closer to Misiones’ capital city, Posadas, (250km from Iguazú), lies the site of the largest and best preserved mission ruins in the region, San Ignacio Miní. The site shows all the interesting aspects of the Jesuits’ quest to convert the Guaraní natives to Catholics.
PUERTO IGUAZU
PUERTO IGUAZU
RESIDENCIAL UNO HOSTELLocated just 3 blocks from the bus
HOSTEL NOELIANoelia is a nice hostel with a good atmosphere located 3 blocks from Puerto Iguazu’s bus terminal. They have double (shared or private bathroom), triple, quadruple & quintuple rooms (all ensuite) and two 6-bed dorms with lockers, all with towels & A/C. There’s a garden & terrace, a refreshing swimming pool and a communal kitchen to save some precious travel budget! Bed sheets and linen are provided by the hostel, laundry service is available at reception, and Noelia’s buffet brekkie will be awaiting you in the morning to start your day charged with energy! The helpful staff will give you advice and information about the tours and trips around the area, to make your stay the
JUNGLE BIKE - Bicycle Rental & ToursYou’re in Iguazú, nature’s paradise, and a perfect area to pedal around like a maniac with an ecofriendly bike! Jungle Bike is the only bike company focusing on independent travelers & backpackers and it’s located next to Iguazú’s bus station. Rent one of the mountain bikes and cruise independently through town, along the riverside to the 3 country border point where Argentina, Brasil & Paraguay meet or cruise through the city’s nice, green surroundings!
We recommend joining in on one of the tours. The Spanish, English & Portuguese speaking guides will take you to some nice hotspots
birdlife, and the indigenous Guaraní villages you’ll pass. Don’t forget your swim suit if you choose the tour that includes a refreshing dip at some really cool waterfalls!
La Aripuca is an excellent option for the morning or afternoon; it’s nearby (short bus ride from Av. Victoria Aguirre or terminal), inexpensive and interesting. During a short guided welcome you’ll be told about deforestation & nature conservation, and the Guaraní culture. The main eye-catcher is a huge copy of a Guaraní animal trap or “aripuca”, a big structure built from 30 giant old tree trunks that fell down during storms or that have been saved from the sawmill. After the guided walk you’re free to wander around and listen to some live harp music or try archery, sit down
to lunch at their restaurant and mosey around the artisan souvenirs & products.
Help to conserve the forest by adopting a tree in the Misiones province! It’s cheap and you’ll be it’s godfather for 10 years. This is a legal way to protect it from being cut. You’ll get
info during your visit! Also possible via the website!
CUYO REGIONCuyo means “desert country” in the native language. Its cities and towns give you
the chance to experience their culture, traditions, excellent food and famous wines. Wonderful natural sites, amazing wildlife, stunning climate, and loads of activities are
all part of the menu, but wait till you see the wine list!
CASA GRANDE HOSTEL Y CABAÑASA 1 hectare park with lots of trees, a swimming pool and several hideaways to chill out in, Casa Grande Hostel is a green oasis just 15 blocks from the main plaza of Villa de Merlo. The main building houses 4 dorms with 4 or 6 beds & lockers and 1 double room, all with their own bathroom. You can cook in the large kitchen or hang out on the terrace with mountain view or on the wrap around porch! There are different, lovely cabins for 2 up to 6 people, fully equipped with bathroom, kitchen, BBQ-grill and TV, which are a really swell option too. The friendly bilingual staff light up the BBQ once or twice a week for a tasty asado and organize group meals almostevery day. Don’t forget to ask the crew about the many activities this gorgeous region has to offer.
How to get there: short taxi ride from the bus station or take the ‘Rincon del Este’ bus at the old bus station (6 blocks from the terminal) that can drop you off at 3 blocks from Casa Grande.
Casa Grande Hostel
10% off when staying 4 nights with Get South!
MERLO - SAN LUIS
Merlo is an important tourist center located in the north east of the San Luis province, bordering the Córdoba province. You can reach it by bus from Mendoza via San Luis city (185km from San Luis), or from Córdoba city via Villa Dolores. The village is located at the foot of the beautiful Comechingones Mountain Range (highest point 2300m) and is famous for its micro-climate. International scientist determined it’s even the 3rd most differentiated micro-climate in the world! The healthy dry climate with more than 300 days of sun and the spectacular scenery makes it an outdoor heaven all year round, with activities such as paragliding, hang-gliding, climbing, hiking, mountain biking and 4x4 excursions. Definitely visit the waterfall Salto del Tigre and the old mining city called “Cerro Aspero, El Pueblo Escondido” in the mountains above Merlo by doing a 4x4 excursion. Another great place to head to in the mountains is the area of Rincón del Este with its two nature reserves: Magote Bayo & the Reserva Natural, with different trekking possibilities, the Tabaquillo waterfall and climbing walls and zip lines. Piedra Blanca, the cozy historical part of town, is definitely worth a visit too with its old church, some museums and craft shops. The main avenue, Avenida del Sol, is the place to be for a refreshing beer or a good meal! Put on your sunglasses and enjoy some quality time in Villa de Merlo!
VILLA DE MERLO
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Argentina MENDOZA
Mendoza is an oasis city filled with tree lined avenues and beautiful plazas. It is surrounded by the vast patchwork vineyards and the Andes mountain range nestled in the background. In the main square, Plaza Independencia, you can visit the small artisan market, while on the west side of the city is the huge San Martín Park and Cerro* de la Gloria, which are worth exploring. For nightlife, make sure to stop by the fantastic bar and restaurant lined street called Arístides Villanueva. The biggest event in Mendoza is “La Fiesta de la Vendimia”, an annual wine harvest festival which runs at the beginning of March. It usually consists of beauty pageants, a series of parades and events. Wine is unarguably one of the area’s main attractions. Most of the wineries are prepared to receive visitors. Guided tours usually cover the history of the winery itself, their winemaking process and finish off with a wine tasting session. Most of the wineries are located outside the city centre, so you need to arrange transport or take a local bus.
The main excursions are the High Mountain Circuit, an ideal way to appreciate the Andes dramatic scenery. On this tour you visit Potrerillos, Uspallata, Penitentes, the stone bridge of Puente del Inca, the Cristo Redentor and the Aconcagua Park.
Other popular tours are Villavicencio and its traditional hotel and Cacheuta with its thermal baths and river where rafting is possible.
Potrerillos area is great for outdoor activities such as trekking, climbing, mountain biking, rappelling, white water rafting, kayaking and horseback riding. For climbing, hiking and mountaineering head to Vallecitos, with many refugios available. Cerro Arco, located 11km from the city centre, is where paragliding takes place.
Mendoza province also offers excellent conditions for skiing and snowboarding. Los Penitentes is 165km from Mendoza city on the way to the Chilean border and is more economical than the world-class resort, Las Leñas, 450 km to the
south of Mendoza city.
Aconcagua: with an astonishing height of 6,959m, Aconcagua, “stone sentinel” in the native language, is the highest peak in the Western Hemisphere. The park is open from October to May and is a popular destination with mountain climbers and trekkers.
MENDOZA
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Argentina MENDOZA
This gorgeous hostel is located in a safe area in downtown Mendoza city, across the road from a huge supermarket and close to bars and restaurants. It has 14 rooms: dorms with 4, 6 or 8 beds, lockers & fans and 7 private rooms (double, matrimonial, triple & quad) with ensuite bathrooms, TV and A/C. This lovely two storey Spanish style house has plenty of airy spaces (all with Wi-Fi) to have a blast
Visiting Mendoza without going to the spectacular mountain area would be a shame! Río Aventura has its own nice
base to hang out with a swimming pool & restaurant (burgers, pizzas & pastas) in Potrerillos on the banks of the Río
Mendoza. Different durations of rafting on this mighty river are offered as well as canopy, trekking, mountain biking and horseback riding. Sign up for one of
these activities, or why not have even more joy by combining them!
RíoIndependencia in Mendoza city, so it’s easy to join in on the fun! You can also book more conventional trips here like winery tours, Alta Montaña, Villavicencio, San Rafael
Located 236 km south of Mendoza city, San Rafael is in the middle of Mendoza province, making it easy to reach the other touristy places from here. San Rafael is considered a capital of adventure tourism, both for its wide range of options and affordable prices. :: Valle Grande: a huge, man-made lake in an impressive natural setting, surrounded by mountains and green fertile vegetation. It attracts visitors seeking outdoor adventures. In Valle Grande you will probably find the cheapest white water rafting in the world!! Horseback riding, 4x4 expeditions (Nihuil’s Dunes), kayaking, boating, canoeing, rappelling, canopy, trekking and climbing are also offered in this great natural setting. :: Cañón* del Atuel: don’t miss this gorgeous natural canyon with highly eroded rocky walls, carved by the Atuel River. There are guided tours that take you there or you can go with your own car. Some interesting rock formations are The Wax Museum, The Castle, The Ghost, Rivadavia’s Chair, The Suspension Gardens, etc. :: Wine Tours: there are around 80 wineries around San Rafael, some within walking or biking distance from town, while others require a car. They range from small family businesses to big producers of all types of quality wines supplying local and international markets. Guided tours and tastings are available in most.:: Nightlife: San Rafael is also a fun town after dark, with 2 casinos, movie theatre, bowling, tango bar, karaoke bar, dance clubs and many pubs and restaurants.
SAN RAFAEL
MENDOZA
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Argentina
Ruta 173, Km 17,7 Valle Grande Cell: +549 260 (15)4390192
reputation. Their base is a serious affair too, with a mini-market, a fast
food joint, a crafts stall and a little riverside beach with great music to
hang out! There is plenty of high-carb food to power you up through the
day and their multi-discipline staff is on hand to
guide you every step of the way.
RAFFEISH TURISMO AVENTURA
Activities provided:Rafting +
Rappelling +Canopy +
Trekking +Kayaking +Canoeing +
Doky (2 person canoe) +Col River (a kind of body boarding) +
Catamaran trips +
CD & DVD service to take yourmemories with you!
Raffeish Turismo Aventura
10% offwith
Get South!
Malargüe is located 186 km south of San Rafael. It’s a small town and serves as a good base for exploring some of the least known, but spectacular landscapes in Argentina. :: Malargüe Planetarium: has interesting guided visits and interactive daily sky shows (some in English). Pierre Auger Cosmic Ray Observatory, studies ultra high energy cosmic rays (free daily visits except weekends). Both are located in Malargüe town.:: Caverna de Las Brujas: Literally translates into “The Witches’ Cave”. It is a marvellous cave that plunges deep into the earth at a depth of almost 2000 m. :: The Payunia: It is recognized as being one of the most densely covered volcanic regions in the world. Trails of lava debris can be seen at various points throughout the park, and enormous boulders of igneous rocks are scattered over the dark plains. :: Volcán Malacara: This volcano erupted by blowing out the side and since the eruption, water flow has carved out some interesting canyons you can walk through. :: Cascadas* de Manqui-Malal: An ideal spot for hiking and rappelling. Keep your eyes alert for commonly seen fossils and for the condors soaring above the high walls. :: Castillos* de Pincheira: It is a naturally formed structure sculpted throughout the many years by glacier erosion. It’s shaped like a giant castle, hence the name.:: Las Leñas: Located 70 km from Malargüe, this internationally renowned ski resort is ideal for winter sport enthusiasts of all levels. Summer activities are also offered.:: Valle Hermoso: 20km from Las Leñas, this “Beautiful Valley” with amazing views, is tucked into the Andes Mountains, with a turquoise lagoon excellent for fishing. Camping available.
MALARGÜE
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NORTH REGIONThe North Region is a huge and diverse area consisting of dramatic landscapes ranging from the high Andes Mountains, deep colourful canyons, arid deserts, impenetrable jungles, wine producing valleys and culturally rich colonial cities.
Safaris, cultural sightseeing, adventure sports, thermal baths and wine tasting are just a few of the activities offered in this region.
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Argentina TUCUMAN
San Miguel de Tucumán is the province capital and is known as the land of sugar cane and the place of the Declaration of Independence Act. Downtown, around Independence Square, are the Casa de Gobierno (Italian and French-style palace), the outstanding Cathedral, the Casa* Nogués (where the Tourist Info Centre is) and the Casa* Padilla. Close to this area stands the Casa Histórica (Historic House), the site chosen by the Congressmen to declare National Independence from Spain on July 9th, 1816. The house is now a museum where you can see furniture, garments and objects from that time. In the evenings, there’s a show called “luz y sonido” (light & sound) which offers a reenactment of the historical events during and around July 9th (just in Spanish). Other places to see are the San Francisco and La Merced Churches, the Archaeological Museum and the 9 de Julio Park. At the foot of the San Javier hill, just a few km from the city, is the village of Yerba Buena, a very pleasant residential area with an excellent nightlife. Wander around San Javier Hill Park for great views of the city and its surrounding area where you can also go paragliding off Loma Bola.
SAN MIGUEL DE TUCUMAN
PARAPENTE AVENTURA - TUCUMAN ADVENTUREIf you are an adrenaline
junkie and want to get
some action in the air,
in water and on land,
contact Parapente Aventura & Tucumán
Adventures. Get sky high with tandem
paragliding; tear down the hillsides by mountain bike; get
wet and wild with kayaking; or combine all three! Experienced
guides handle all the logistics so you can just sit back and
enjoy the ride. Open year round.
As well as adventure tourism company, they also have two cabins so you can
stay the night at the foot of Cerro San Javier and enjoy the views for longer.
Get South! Parapente Aventura Tucuman / Parapente Aventura
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Argentina
Tafí del Valle is located in the Sierra de Aconquija, 107 km from San Miguel de Tucumán and 1,976 m above sea level. This town boasts a special microclimate, beautiful scenery, warm people and a rich history. Tafí is also famous for its local cheese which is made from recipes inherited from the Jesuits. Another Jesuit legacy is the old Chapel of La Banda. :: Cascada* Los Alisos: a 20 m vertical waterfall located 13 km from Tafí and accessible by bus. You can take a 2.5 hr walk and have the option of doing rappelling. It is best to go with a guide.:: Valle de la Ciénaga: it’s a 3 hr walk up to 2,600 m, where you can see archaeological ruins and amazing landscapes. :: Museo Jesuítico de La Banda: located 500 metres from the centre of Tafí del Valle. This historical building is from the beginning of the XVIII century. :: Adventure Tourism: there are wonderful hiking possibilities in the surrounding mountains in addition to horseback riding, rappelling, mountain biking, rock climbing and 4x4 tours. 10 km away in El Mollar, you can visit the Menhir Park where you will find stone sculptures belonging to the Tafí culture which were once found scattered throughout the valley. These stones, carved by the Tafí natives, still bear signs and symbols yet to be deciphered.
TAFI DEL VALLE
TAFI DEL VALLE
NOMADE HOSTELIf you want to enjoy the best views
of the valley, the tranquil river, local culture,
homemade food and a relaxing atmosphere,
Nómade Hostel welcomes you with open arms
blocks from the bus station (to the right) and 7 blocks from
downtown, the hostel has a large garden space which
opens up directly onto the river - perfect for dipping your
toes in and enjoying nature at its best. Attended personally
by its owners, you can meet some friendly local faces and
taste homemade, regional cuisine at dinner (included in the price!). Make
sure to ask for advice on the area and about renting bikes, or organising
mountain walks, horseriding and visits to the valley and Quilmes ruins.
Nómade Hostel has doubles, quadrouples and small dorms, with private and
10% off with Get South! (minimum stay of 2 nights)
51
Argentina AMAICHA DEL VALLE
This indigenous community is situated 55 km from Tafí del Valle and 68 from Cafayate and it offers marvellous landscapes and a pleasant climate.:: Quilmes Ruins: located 20 km from Amaicha, these ruins are the remains of the town built by the local natives, the Quilmes, who for over 130 years resisted the invasion of the Spanish forces (the longest resistance in Spanish Colonial history). :: El Remate: here you will find a series of waterfalls located 9 km from Amaicha, which are ideal for trekking, climbing and swimming. You can get there by taxi or local bus. It´s recommend to walk back and stop at Los Zazos Dam and at the Eco Museo Amauta, where you can learn about native customs. :: Ampimpa Observatory: located on the road to Tafí del Valle, this astronomic observatory belongs to the University of Tucumán and it’s a great place to have a panoramic view of the valley and watch the stars at night.:: Pachamama Museum: it shows different elements of the aboriginal culture dating back to 800 BC. :: Tiu Punco (“Desert’s door”): the local dunes can be reached by crossing the bed of Rio Santa Maria and the Petrified Forest of carob trees. Accessible only on 4x4 or by horseback.Every February, Amaicha del Valle holds the Pachamama Festival in honour of the “Pachamama”(Motherland). It’s the best occasion to experience the local customs and traditions, and enjoy delicious dishes.
AMAICHA DEL VALLE
San Martín n/n, on the way to the millAMAICHA DEL VALLE
Cafayate is the most important town in the Calchaquí Valley. It’s famous for its wine production and its popular folkloric festival held in February, the Serenata. Main attractions include a visit to the Cathedral, the Artisan’s Market and the Wine and Archaeological Museums. Its dry and sunny climate is ideal for growing a variety of grape types, including the torrontés, unique to this area. You can take a guided wine tour where tasting is a must. A unique way to try the local wine is at Heladería Miranda, which offers ice cream flavours like cabernet and torrontés. On the way to Salta, you will see sand dunes before catching a glimpse of the dramatic gorge of the Quebrada de Cafayate (or Quebrada de las Conchas), a series of intensely coloured rock formations. The Amphitheatre and The Devil’s Throat are highlighted stops throughout the Quebrada de Cafayate. Trekking by the Colorado River to the Seven Waterfalls, mountain biking, horseback riding and even sand walking, are some of the activities which can be enjoyed around Cafayate. A perfect way to make the most out of your visit.
CAFAYATE BACKPACKERSCafayate Backpackers is a cozy and colorful
colonial house located just 3 blocks from
the main square, a few blocks from the
bus terminals and only 50 metres from the
wine route in Cafayate. They have private matrimonial, triple or quadruple
rooms with shared bathroom and 3 dorms for 5, 8 or 10 people with
private bathroom and lockers. The splendid garden is wonderful to rock
in a hammock and rest, to pitch your tent or to socialize while eating the
traditional meals they prepare twice a week.
There is also a BBQ area and a kitchen available to prepare your own meals.
Run by local owners and a kind staff, bike rental is available and they will
help you arrange wine tours and a visit to the goat
cheese factory, to the Quebradas de las
Conchas or to the Colorado River waterfalls.
Laundry service is possible and
it’s open all year!
10% off at check-in
with Get South!
53
Argentina CAFAYATE
Its name comes from the Aymará word “sagta”, which means “the very beautiful one”. Salta is the main base for tourist excursions in the North. From here, you can head to Cafayate, the wine region, the valleys and mountains of Calchaqui Valley, the picturesque route to the historic village of Cachi, the amazing Los Cardones National Park, and much more.This city has some of the best preserved colonial architecture in the country.The most significant buildings in Salta are grouped around the main square, Plaza 9 de Julio. They include the Cathedral, the Cabildo (town hall) which houses the Museo Histórico del Norte, and the San Francisco Church, which has one of the highest church towers in America (53 m). The Museo Arqueológico de Alta Montaña has a very interesting collection of exhibits gathered from high-altitude Inca shrines, including mummified children.The Museo de Bellas Artes (Fine Art Museum) resides in a 2 storey colonial mansion on Florida Street, 2 blocks west of Plaza 9 de Julio. San Bernardo Convent is one of the oldest buildings in the city. It has a hand-carved wooden door made by the natives dating back to 1762.
This hostel is literally surrounded by vines while being at the heart
picturesque grape vines and views of the nearby hillsides and mountains, you’ll feel in the middle of nature but
a half from the main plaza, only 20m
close to all the shops and restaurants.
This homely hostel with 5 dorms, 3 private doubles and plenty of space for camping (all with shared bathrooms) will give you an opportunity to get to know the Argentine culture with their weekly asados* and folklore classes. Enjoy the local architecture and take advantage of their communal kitchen,
bookings to go to the Colorado River,
Quebrada de Cafayate or other points of interest
in the area just ask the friendly crew!
10% off at check-in
with Get South!
54
Argentina SALTA
The Cable Car to San Bernardo Hill is an excellent way to see Salta from above. It’s a ten minute ride, taking you from the city centre up to a glorious vista. One can also get there by climbing the 1,021 steps!
Salta has a busy nightlife, especially in and around Balcarce Street. It hosts many favourite local bars, restaurants, and peñas* folklóricas where local food and drinks are served while traditional live music and dancing fill your spirit.
Salta also offers a great variety of adventure activities. You can go horseback riding, trekking or paragliding around the surrounding hills and mountains. Other choices include mountain biking, bird watching or 4x4 journeys. Most of the adventure activities take place at Cabra Corral Dam, 65 km away from Salta city, where you can also go sailing, water skiing, kayaking, jet skiing, bungee jumping, water sliding and even rafting in the Juramento River rapids.
From April to November you can experience an awesome ride on the famous Tren a las Nubes (Train to the Clouds), traveling through the Quebrada* del Toro and ascending up to 4,220 m.
MOVITRACK OVERLAND & INCOMINGExplore the great outdoors of the Argentinean Northwest in a big original 4x4 off-road truck with Movitrack, the specialized safari company in the area. Stick your head out
stops are made at different natural wonders, so grab your camera and shoot the most amazing pics! - Safari a las Nubes Salinas Grandes, Purmamarca with the Seven Colours Mountain.- Safari Ruta 40 (2 day trip): Lerma Valley, Cardones NP, Calchaquí River Valley, Gorge of the Arrows, Cafayate and its Quebrada.- Tren + Movi (full day): one way on the famous “Train to the Clouds”, return by truck via the Inca ruins
Santa Rosa de Tastil.
the main plaza with bilingual
staff and guides. N° Leg. 10.095
15% offwith
Get South!
Salta Bus StationTicket booth Nº 15+54 387 4210606
PULLMAN BUS - SALTAAre you in Salta and want to get to San Pedro de Atacama in Chile? Pullman Bus is a great
bus company that can take you there! Get your camera ready because this is a bus ride you will not forget!
Known as the Paso de Jama, the ride up from Salta and Jujuy to San Pedro de Atacama is simply spectacular. Pullman Bus leaves from Salta (7am), Jujuy (8.45am) and Purmamarca (9.45am) every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday and takes you to San Pedro de Atacama as well as Calama,
the best comfort in their new buses with leather seats, air con, heating, bathrooms on board, complimentary breakfast, light lunch and snack
Buy your tickets at the Salta or Jujuy Pullman Bus ticket booth at the bus station.
Don’t forget to ask for your Get South discount at the Salta (only) ticket booth!
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Argentina
PURMAMARCAPurmamarca has pre-Hispanic origins and an urban layout which is centred around the main Church. It is located 3 km west from National Route 9 (65 km from San Salvador de Jujuy). This village lies against the exceptional Cerro de los Siete Colores (Hill of Seven Colours), which has sedimentary rocks of different colours illustrating various geological eras. Handicraft fairs also colour the village streets, with clothing, crafts, ponchos, and woven cloths available for purchase. Attractions at Purmamarca are plentiful. Whether you choose to visit the Saint Rosa’s church at the centre of town, built in 1648 and featuring original Cuzco School style paintings, or the neighbouring archaeological sites littered with cave paintings, you will undoubtedly be touched by local flavour. In addition, the Paseo de los Colorados marks for a gorgeous three-kilometre walk, featuring naturally sculpted red cliffs and a series of breathtaking views.Another highlight is the vast Salinas Grandes (Great Salt Flats), which are easy accessible by local taxi from the main plaza. The drive goes over the Cuesta del Lipán, bordering cliffs through a deep canyon while reaching 4200 m until you get to this enormous salt pan.
PURMAMARCA
This lively Andean village is a great place for exploring the Quebrada de Humahuaca. There’s an excellent arts and crafts market and lots of places to eat in and around its charming central plaza. Evenings can be enjoyed wandering around, bar hopping and attending local peñas*. The well attended religious procession in January and the Pachamama (Mother Earth) festival in August are worth catching.
:: Pucará de Tilcara: a restored pre-Hispanic fortress located on a hilltop, where one can appreciate the astonishing views of the Quebrada landscapes. :: Museo Arqueológico: hosts an extensive collection of pre-Columbian ceramics, masks and mummies.:: Cuevas de Wayra: walk through this impressive formation of natural tunnels.:: Garganta del Diablo: hike to Devil’s Throat, along old paths to the waterfalls, while taking in amazing views. :: Castillos de Huichaira: natural sand formation where you can only arrive walking or horseback riding. Sandboard is possible here.
TILCARA
61
Argentina TILCARA
HOSTEL & CAMPING WAIRAA huge property of 5.000 m2 located at just 3
blocks from the bus terminal and main plaza.
Hostel and camp
or without private bathroom), dormitories and a big camping space. Towels are
included for private rooms and breakfast for both privates and dorms. A kitchen
it’s busy with loud music & parties. Outside of high season it’s a tranquil place
to relax. The outdoor BBQ grills are for use all year round.
Enjoy rocking a hammock, defeating other globetrotters at the ping pong and
foosball table, or reading a book at their outside tables.
Spanish and English spoken. Open all year round.
10% off or 5th night free with Get South!(except in January, February, July and Carnival)
LA ALBAHACA HOSTELStay at La Albahaca Hostel, 4 blocks from
the plaza, and you’ll have a fabulous time
in Tilcara. Spoil yourself by signing up for the
daily group dinners where yummy food is served and guitar music is played.
Sometimes even free dance & music classes are organized! The included
breakfast with homegrown fruits and homemade bread is served at your table
and the hostel’s terrace with amazing views is superb to chill out on. The hostel
private rooms you have the option: shared or private bathroom. After a good
night’s sleep you should join in on one of the entertaining tours organized by
the crew. Have fun at La Albahaca mingling with the other travelers or helping
out with their environmental friendly projects! Open all
year, towels included.1 free communal dinner or 10% off in dorms at
Tilcara Hostel! Albahaca Hostel
62
Argentina TILCARA
HUMAHUACAThe town of Humahuaca is a sun drenched land filled with memories of cultures past that continue their influence on architecture, traditions, legends and beliefs related to nature and local heroes. The rustic adobe (mud) houses, the narrow cobbled streets and the old colonial street lamps create the illusion that time has stopped. In the centre of the village is the Cabildo (Town Hall), the beautiful Cathedral, built in the XVII century and the imposing Independence Monument with a statue exalting the virtues of the native culture. Don’t miss Peñas Blancas and Pucará (an archaeological site and viewpoint located 1 km from town), the Serranías de Hornocal (limestone formations with a variety of colors, almost 5000 meters above the sea level - highest viewpoint of the gorge), Inca Cueva (caves with rock art of great archaeological value - 10 thousand years BC), Coctaca (prehispanic agricultural site), and Hornaditas (aboriginal community, cactus forrest, “El Pintado” or Sapagua petroglyphs). From the town of Humahuaca you can take a local bus and visit Iruya (3hrs away). The village really has an “end of the road” feel as the one road literally ends in front of the church. Surrounded by a breathtaking view, with cliffs and mountains enclosing the village; its steep cobblestone streets take you back to the past. Don’t miss Cerro de la Cruz viewpoint. You can also go on a horseback ride, take a 4x4 tour or hike to remote San Isidro (8km away).
UMA TRAVELLive the adventure and experience the beautiful landscapes and culture of North Argentina with Uma Travel! This experienced, tailor-made tourism agency offers lots of different adventure activities in the Jujuy province and the Quebrada de Humahuaca, as well as excursions to the most picturesque spots, and rural and cultural tourism. Programs are available from full day to multi day trips using modern well maintained equipment, reliable vehicles and professional bilingual guides so your safety is always guaranteed. They offer daily excursions to Iruya, Salinas Grandes, Serranía del Hornocal, Hornaditas, Uquía, cultural programs and amazing multi day trekking trips following ancient Inca trails where
a rich and vibrant cultural heritage and amazing landscapes to discover, what are you waiting for?
La Quiaca is the last stop before entering Bolivia. It’s a small village about 190 km from Humahuaca at 3,442 m.a.s.l. It’s next to the Bolivian border, connecting via an international bridge. You will be attracted by the way people live, the characteristic clothing of the women and men, and the active trade in local products. The Central Market is interesting to see, and from here there is local transport that takes you to the historic village of Yavi (it leaves all the time), situated only 16 km east of La Quiaca through a paved road. Yavi was founded in 1667 and has under 400 inhabitants that live in adobe (mud)wall houses with typical roofs made out of reed, clay and straw. You should visit the San Francisco’s Chapel, built in 1690 and the mansion of the Marquis of Tojo (converted into a museum). From Yavi there are walking trails around the nearby Cerros Colorados, including rock paintings and petroglyphs. Five km south of Yavi, at the foot of the Siete Hermanos Mountains, you will find the Laguna Colorada with astonishing rock paintings of human figures, llamas, spirals and portrayals of the activities and customs, all painted by the primitive inhabitants.
EL APOLILLO HOSTELOnly 8 blocks from the Bolivian border,
of Argentina! At this small colourful hostel in
from all corners of the world. A refurbished adobe* house made with local materials and with solar heated rooms, El Apolillo respects its environment and respects yours too - providing musical instruments, board games, pool table, Playstation, cable TV, a fully equipped kitchen, great breakfast, book exchange and a big BBQ area to enjoy the atmosphere!
Take your pick between the comfy 4 and 5 bed dorms with lockers or the private
time you arrive the bilingual owners, a friendly Argentine couple, will make you feel welcome and you can check in 24 hours.
How to get there from the bus station:
Arabe Siria Street. Turn right and walk about 3 blocks. It́ s just 5 blocks in total.
15% off with Get South if you stay 3 nights or more!
San Martín de los Andes is a very cute village with a spectacular setting! The location on the banks of Lago Lácar, do a boat trip here, and at the entrance of the huge Lanin NP makes it a top destination not be missed! You’re gonna wear out your boots here with lots of trails to explore the area’s forests, rivers, lakes, mountains & volcanoes. If you’re short on time you can hike up to the Mirador Los Arayanes or Las Bandurrias starting from the village. Or head out further to go trekking or taking pics at for example Cerro Colorado, Lago Nonthué, Lago Huechulafquen and the notorious Lanin Volcano! Get the detailed info at the park rangers’ office on the main plaza, they have loads more excellent possibilities up their sleeve for you! Cerro Chapelco, 15km away, is San Martín’s ski resort with 29km of slopes and very good snow conditions, an excellent spot for winter sports or adventure sports in summer like climbing, mountain biking, paragliding, horseback riding … And obviously you should discover the famous Seven Lake Route, a spectacular 100km long road that literally passes 7 gorgeous lakes and ends at Villa La Angostura. Most transfers to the area’s highlights are operated only in high season, but by renting a car you have the freedom to visit all the area’s natural gems without any problem all year round! Tip: lots of travelers cross the border by bus to Pucón in Chile and vice versa!
SAN MARTIN DE LOS ANDES
SAN MARTIN DE LOS ANDES
67
Argentina
HANSEN RENT A CAR Av. San Martín 568. Complejo Austria+54 2972 427997 /Cell: +549 294 (15)4602500
SAN CARLOS DE BARILOCHEOne can find it all in Bariloche… mountains and lakes, a dry summer and snowy winter, natural beauty year round and an abundance of different activities for each season. The city itself stands out with its unique stone and wood architecture, giving it a Swiss Alps feel. It's famous for its chocolate and artisan beer produced in multiple cervecerías. Bariloche is also considered the capital of adventure tourism in the country. Activities include: rafting, canopy, trekking, horseback riding, mountain biking, lake kayaking, scuba diving, fishing, snowboarding, skiing, paragliding and skydiving.
:: Nahuel Huapi National Park: With more than 700,000 hectares, the park is filled with lakes, rivers, glaciers, rapids, valleys, forests, mountains, snow capped volcanoes, and a variety of animal species. It contains lots of well maintained hiking trails, that wander through the dense, green, old-growth forests. Many of the trails are interlinked by refuges where you can get food, drinks and a bed or place to camp. Cerro Frey is considered by many as the best 1-2 days trekking in Bariloche. The main center for climbing is the spires and solid rock faces surrounding Refugio Frey, near Cerro Catedral. Not all of the refugios are open year-round, so it is important to check with the local climbing association Club Andino that offers detailed information and hiking registration.
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Argentina
:: Circuito Chico: it's a beautiful circular route offering interesting sights, like beaches, lakes, forest, mountains. Some people do it by bicycle although it’s not a beginners bike ride. You can also do it by car or, in summer, combining public transport with walking. :: Cerro Campanario: Enjoy the scenic chairlift as it takes you to the summit. From there you can see one of the most beautiful and fascinating views of the region.:: Colonia Suiza: little pinturesque town that offers curanto on Sundays. Yummy!:: Cerro Catedral: Considered to be one of the best ski resorts in South America, it is fully equipped with 67 km of skiable terrain and runs of up to 4 km in length. It is also a cool place to visit outside of ski season.:: Cerro Tronador: Visit the black glacier (ventisquero negro), see the Cerro Tronador and a waterfall over an overhanging cliff named Saltillo de las Nalcas. To get there you can take a 2hr bus where you have to hike the last 7 km to the glacier, which is a beautiful experience as there is a hiking trail and the road shows amazing landscape. There are also tourist buses that take you right to the sights. :: Villa La Angostura: A beautiful, classy, yet rustic village, located some 80 km north of Bariloche on the northern shores of Nahuel Huapi Lake. From here you can access the famous Bosque de Arrayanes and the Seven Lakes Route.
Just 110 km from Bariloche, El Bolsón is a bohemian village with a unique atmosphere cherished by nature lovers and artisans. They locally produce delicious artisan beers (+30 breweries!) and grow berries. Don’t leave without trying the raspberry beer, it’s so yummy! The handicraft market in town is famous for its quality and is opened on Tue, Thu, Sat, Sun & public holidays. But El Bolsón is not just about pampering your taste buds, it’s also a real nature paradise! The Cerro Piltriquitrón (2284 m) dominates the town, a 15km drive from town will get you to the Piltri's “plataforma”. This is the starting point of a 40min walk to Bosque Tallado, a beautiful forest with wooden sculptures or hike 2,5hr steep up to the top of the mountain, one of the most impressive peaks of Patagonia. Hikers are gonna love El Bolsón with its big quantity of trails and 14 refuges, perfect for day trips or multi-day treks! Crystal clear rivers, waterfalls, glaciers, mountain peaks, hidden lagoons and thousand year old trees are the rewards for tiring yourself out! The popular Lago Puelo National Park is located 18 km from El Bolsón and has beaches to swim, boat tours, high cliffs and impressive views. It’s very easy to reach by bus or (rental) bike, a gorgeous ride! A nice half day activity is the trail bordering the Río Azul in the Doña Rosa area with El Paraíso as the destination! Sounds great no? The Cerro Amigo viewpoint is a short little outing, close to town and very relaxed. Or maybe you’d like to go horseback riding, paragliding, rafting or kayaking. One thing is for sure: El Bolsón will keep you busy for several days. Tip: Lots of travelers continue south to enter the Carretera Austral in Chile. (border crossing Esquel - Futaleufú). Hiking fanatic? also inform about hiking to the Cochamó area in Chile!
EL BOLSON
LA CASA DEL ARB0L - H0STEL El B0LS0NPerito Moreno 3038
Located about 300 km south of Bariloche, Esquel is a breezy town in a fertile valley, with a mountain backdrop. It attracts tourists year round, as it is the base for visiting Los Alerces National Park, La Hoya ski resort and the starting point for the famous La Trochita train.:: Los Alerces National Park: This park is composed of 13 lakes and various river systems, including Lake Futalaufquen and the Arrayanes River- two of the country's best fishing spots. Others include, Lake Menéndez, home to a forest with 3,000-year-old, 60 m tall larch trees and Lago Verde with its green waters.:: La Hoya ski resort: Located about 13 km from Esquel. Its southern orientation allows for great snow conditions, making it an ideal spot for spring skiing. :: La Trochita: Is a historical steam engine train which dates back to 1922. It runs on narrow gauge tracks (75 cm wide) up to the "Nahuel Pan" train station, where a Mapuche community is settled. It currently serves as a tourist attraction. :: Trevelin: A small Welsh settlement 23 km from Esquel, where the customs, traditions and language are still maintained and are very much a part of every day life.
ESQUEL
10% off at check-in
with Get South!
74
Argentina LAS GRUTAS
If you’re looking for dramatic natural beauty and an authentic local experience, then head to Las Grutas. It’s a quaint but growing resort town that is less touristy than the larger Puerto Madryn (263 km south). Its white sand beach is surrounded by picturesque cliffs and thanks to its microclimate, has the warmest water in Argentina! Some of the cliffs have eroded away creating natural caves that separate the beach from the town. In fact, Las Grutas means “the grottos” in Spanish.At low tide, don’t miss the unique carved-out stone pools near the “Cero” entry point to the beach. The water is refreshed each tidal cycle and quickly warmed in the sun. Southern Right Whales, Orcas, dolphins, sea lions, condors and penguins also make this their home at least part of the year (normally in winter). While you’re there, take advantage of their clear water and go on a snorkeling, scuba diving or kayak excursion off the coast. Another option is to take in the exquisite coastal landscape by horseback riding along the beach. From Las Grutas you can take many excursions, including whale watching at Península Valdés, going to the old iron mines, Fuerte Argentino, Islote Lobos penguin colony, or the biggest salt flats in Argentina, the Salinas del Gualicho.
Puerto Madryn is the gateway to the Península Valdés, a World Heritage Site at 90 km away. It's the breeding place for southern right whales from June to December. It’s also home year round to sea lions, elephant seals, penguins, ñandúes*, maras*, guanacos* and thousands of sea birds. For whale watching, the most popular option is hopping on a boat trip departing from Puerto Pirámides on the Península. The Mar y Valle bus company has a daily bus service from Puerto Madryn to get there! Whale sightings are also possible from Puerto Madryn’s beach or from El Doradillo, 15 km from town, at high tide.Puerto Madryn was declared "National Capital of Scuba Diving" and it's one of the few places in the world where you can dive or snorkel with sea lions which is amazing! Worth visiting also is the Ecocentro (sea ecosystems), Punta Cuevas (city's history) and Museo Oceanográfico (Patagonia info and animals). Punta Loma Natural Reserve, located 19 km south, has over 800 sea lions year round, best visible at low tide. 190 km south Punta Tombo is one of the most varied sea bird colonies in the world, with an incredible amount of Magellan penguins (mid September to beginning of April, peak of 1 million in January). In Playa Unión, near Rawson, at 90 km south of Puerto Madryn, you can watch year round the smallest dolphin in the world called Tonina Overa on a spectacular boat trip. To explore more of the incredible Península and to go to the other highlights in the area we recommend to rent a car or to book a tour!
Please take warm clothes, proper shoes and sun protection.
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Argentina
Located 220 km northwest of El Calafate, El Chaltén is considered to be the trekking capital of Argentina. This charming village is surrounded by lakes, lagoons, mountains and glaciers allowing for a wide spectrum of outdoor activities. Unguided hikes are common as the trails are free, well marked and easily accessible. There finally is cell phone reception, with Movistar & Personal, and there is one ATM in town.The two most predominant peaks are Fitz Roy (3,405 m) and Cerro* Torre (3,128 m). They represent a challenge for both recreational trekkers and for expert mountain climbers. An excellent glacier trek is also available on Cerro Torre.For those needing a break from the challenging hikes, another great way to experience the surrounding beauty is by horseback. Otherwise, you can take a boat excursion to the shores of Viedma glacier, where a short hiking path allows you to get up-close and personal with the glacier. About 40 km north of El Chaltén you will encounter Laguna* del Desierto, a tranquil lake surrounded by forests, various trekking trails and a hanging glacier. Culture wise you should do the daily 3 o'clock tour to El Chaltén's pioneer Estancia Cerro Fitz Roy. Chile crossing: ask about the 130 km trip to Villa O'Higgins at the end of the Carretera Austral in Chile via boat and bus, bicycle, horseback or on foot. More handy info about El Chaltén via the app: elchalten.patagoniaapps.com.ar.
Located on the shores of Lago Argentino, El Calafate is best known as the starting point from which to visit The Glaciers National Park, a World Heritage Site home to 13 glaciers. The famous 5km wide Perito Moreno is one of only two advancing glaciers in South America. There are many ways to get to the park; you can rent a car, take a bus or join a tour. From there you can go on a relaxing boat trip amongst huge icebergs to marvel at the giant ice blocks detaching and plunging into Lago Argentino. Another boat tour takes you towards the 50km long Upsala glacier. Onelli and Agassiz glaciers can be admired after a 1.5km walk from Onelli Bay. Besides the glaciers, a few adventure activities worth mentioning are horseback riding, trekking, 4x4 expeditions, estancia* visits, fly fishing and mountain biking.The new glacier museum is the best way to learn how glaciers form and also a chance to drink your whisky on glacier rocks in their ice bar. El Calafate's main strip is great for strolling around, with lots of souvenir shops, cafes and restaurants. Nearby is Bahía Redonda with upland geese, black necked swans and flamingos and the Laguna Nimez Nature Reserve with about 90 species of birds!
Ushuaia is known as the southernmost city in the world. Tierra del Fuego National Park is one of the main attractions, offering beautiful views of the Beagle Channel and its surrounding mountainous islands. You can explore it hiking, camping, fishing, bird and beaver watching, canoeing and mountain biking. A popular excursion is a boat tour on the Beagle Channel to watch sea lions, Magellan penguins, cormorants and other interesting sea birds. To learn about the local history, visit the End of the World Museum or the Maritime Museum & Ushuaia's Old Prison.Take the chair lift or walk up Martial Glacier to be rewarded by spectacular views of the southernmost tip of the earth. Throughout the warmer months (Nov. to Mar.) you can take an Antarctic cruise to explore this fascinating and mysterious destination. Take advantage of the last minute discounted tickets offered by the travel agencies in town.In the winter this city also offers many activities, including skiing, snowmobiling, dog sledding, ice skating, snowshoeing, snowboarding and ice climbing.
USHUAIA
Closed 1 May – 15 June
ANTARCTICA H0STEL Antártida Argentina 270+54 2901 435774