Contemplation in front of the Perito Moreno glacier

Argentina Travel Guide

Trustpilot
  1. Homepage
  2. Americas
  3. Argentina

Argentina

  • Is it safe to visit Argentina now?

    Yes, Argentina is a safe country to visit. Crime rates in bigger cities tend to be higher than rural areas but the Argentinian people are extremely friendly and welcoming.  Common sense when travelling in Argentina is key and it is sensible to keep valuables close to you and out of clear sight. When travelling in Argentina with Kandoo, you will be staying in low-crime areas and your experienced local guides will give you their top tips on where to go and where is best avoided. 

  • Is it expensive to travel Argentina?

    Argentina’s economy is notoriously volatile and in 2022 it plummeted; terrible news for the locals, however it does mean it’s a great option for travelling on a budget. The poor rate of the Argentinian Peso (ARS) also means that United States Dollars (USD) are highly in demand as they provide a stable currency for locals to trade in. This need for USD has developed a black market exchange rate called the Blue Dollar. The exchange rate is much better than those found in the banks and at ATMs around Argentina and again lowers the cost of travel around the country.

  • Can I drink tap water in Argentina?

    The tap water in rural Argentina is generally from local sources and is not always filtered. At most hotels and campsites, filtered water machines are free to use to fill reuseable bottles and you will also be able to buy bottled water. We encourage you to bring a filter for your water bottle and some sterilisation tablets if you feel this isn’t enough.

  • Is alcohol allowed in Argentina?

    The legal drinking age in Argentina is 18. For anybody over the age of 18, alcohol can be consumed unless in a public space or in a stadium at a sporting or artistic event. Some supermarkets will only sell alcoholic drinks until 10pm.

  • Is it safe to walk around in Buenos Aires?

    Buenos Aires is considered to be one of the safest cities to walk around in South America. As a visitor, you will definitely be more of a target for crime and petty theft is the most common crime in the city. Using basic precautions; keeping valuables out of sight and in multiple layers of access, staying in groups and not being ‘flashy’ will lower the chances of you becoming a victim of crime. On our Ultimate Patagonia trip we offer a guided tour of the city where you will be able to see the local culture with the safety of a knowledgeable guide.   

  • What not to miss in Argentina?

    At Kandoo Adventures we appreciate awe-inspiring natural environments and epic adventures in remote locations whilst dipping out toes into the culture of new, exciting places. It’s therefore not surprising that our personal ‘un-missables’ whilst travelling in Argentina are:
    • Exploring the Tierra del Fuego by boat and on foot
    • Spending the night in a traditional estancia (sheep ranch)
    • Summitting one of the seven summits and the highest peak in the Southern Hemisphere!
    • Trekking and camping beneath the mighty Mt Fitz Roy

  • How long do you need to explore Argentina?

    We would say a minimum of two weeks is essential to really indulge in all that Argentina has to offer. There are so many different elements to this lively country, and the sheer size of it requires time to see at least a few of the highlights. Whether you would like a remote trekking adventure, an extreme summit tick or to visit the lighthouse at the ‘end of the world’ we have trips of varying levels to match your needs

  • What is the best way to visit Argentina?

    With Kandoo of course! Take away the stress of planning a route only to find your bus is late meaning you’ve missed your next connection and your phone is playing up so the ever-reliant internet is seeming a little less so.

    At Kandoo, we ensure you have safe, secure accommodation, reliable transfers, epic locations and friendly guides to make your trip a memorable one. In classic Kandoo style, we seek out the adventure in Argentina’s dramatic, mountainous landscapes, and delve into ancient Argentinian culture, staying in traditional estancias and eating locally sourced produce.

  • Is it rude not to tip in Argentina?

    While tipping isn’t mandatory it is generally considered polite to tip if you feel you have received good service and will be appreciated. If travelling by taxis, a good way to tip is to round up the fare to the nearest amount (providing you have the correct change). Similarly, rounding up the bill works well if you have eaten out and want to tip your server. Most hotels and campsites have tip jars or boxes in the main reception are and you should place your tip in there when you check-out rather than hand an amount to a specific person. A tip of $2-4 per night is sufficient but please remember that you should not feel you have to tip if you don't feel it is deserved.

  • What is the best time of year to go to Argentina?

    The summer time from October to February is the best time to visit Patagonia. November to January are the "hottest" months but the shoulder months of October and February tend to have less windy conditions. The season for Aconcagua runs from mid-November to the end of February with the main climbing season from mid-December to the end of January. We do not operate any treks in the Mendoza region beyond these months, as it is incredibly cold and windy with very limited opportunity to succeed.

    The best time to visit North west Argentina is from mid-April to the end of November, thus avoiding the humid heat and tropical summer rains.

  • What is the trekking capital of Argentina?

    El Chaltén is renowned as being the “National Capital of Trekking” in Argentina. At the foot of Fitz Roy, it is the perfect location for all kinds of mountain based sports in incredible scenery.

Trekking Patagonia

  • When can you hike in Patagonia?

    The best time to visit Patagonia is during the summer months of December to February. At this time, you can expect daytime temperatures between 6 °C and 20 °C. Night time temperatures could go as low as 0°C.

  • How much does a trip to Patagonia cost?

    This really depends on what you want to do while you are in the region. The refuges and campsites can be expensive so it is a good idea to join a group and share the costs. Take a good look at what is included in the price of your trip. At Kandoo Adventures we include hotel accommodation before and after your Patagonia trekking tour, domestic flights down to Patagonia and loads of other stuff such as boat trips, city tours, airport transfers and most meals.  These are things you would otherwise have to pay extra for yourself. The important thing is to look for value for money, not just the lowest price. 

  • Which airport do you fly into for your trips in Patagonia?

    Depending on which tour you have booked you will fly into different airports:
    • For our W Trek and O Circuit tours you will need to fly into Teniente Julio Gallardo Airport (PNT) in Puerto Natales.
    • For Peaks of Patagonia you will need to fly into  El Calafate Airport (airport code FTE).
    • For Ultimate Patagonia your trip will start in Buenos Aires so you will need to book a flight into Buenos Aires Ezeiza Airport (EZE).
    • If you are climbing Aconcagua, you will need to fly into Mendoza Airport (MDZ)

  • Is it safe to travel in Patagonia?

    Absolutely yes. Like anywhere in the world, there is always the chance of petty theft, but trekking in Patagonia is very safe in both Argentina and Chile.

  • Where will I be sleeping on your trekking trips?

    All trips start and end with hotel accommodation and if you are taking part in a multi-day trek, you will be spend each night at a campsite and stay in a tent. On all trips which involve camping, the tents will already be set up and your sleeping mat and sleeping bag will be provided. At most campsites, sleeping bags are laundered after each use but this is not always the case and you should bring a warm sleeping bag liner. 

  • What will I need to carry on a multi-day trek in Patagonia?

    You will need to bring everything you will need for your trek. This includes your trekking clothing, underwear, toiletries, sleeping bag liner, snacks and any personal medications. Treks such as the O Circuit and W Trek are self-supported and you will need to be comfortable carrying a backpack with all of these items in. You can find full packing lists for each trip on our trip dossiers and website. You will be able to leave anything you don't need for the trek at your hotel.

Climbing Aconcagua

  • How fit do I need to be to climb Aconcagua? What training should I do?

    To give yourself the best shot at summiting Aconcagua we recommend being in the best physical shape that you can possibly be. This means having a strong cardiovascular system and aerobic fitness level. If you live in an area that is blessed with mountainous terrain, then the best training you can do is to take frequent hiking excursions. However, for the majority of folk who don't live near mountains, then we recommend a strict gym training regime for 3-5 months before taking on Aconcagua. Your training regime should consist of aerobic activities like running, spinning or spending time on the rowing machine. You should couple aerobic exercises with weight training to strengthen your legs and core. We recommend squats, lunges, kettle bell swings and sit ups. 

  • Will we have medical checks?

    Each day your guide will check you pulse and oxygen level with an Oximeter and record your levels. At base camp you will have a mandatory health check conducted by the Park’s Medical Service.

  • When is the best time to climb Aconcagua?

    To stay safe and avoid taking unnecessary risks, you should only ever climb when it is deemed safe. This is why many areas have climbing seasons designated to when conditions will be ideal and the climb poses the least risk of harm.

    For Aconcagua, the climbing season runs from 15th November to 20th February, with the high season running from mid December to the end of January. This period generally offers the most stable weather on the mountain and lots of summit window opportunities. If your schedule doesn't allow for a high season climb, then we recommend looking at the shoulder weeks of the mid-season from either early December or early February.

  • How long does it take to climb Aconcagua?

    The amount of time it takes to make it to the peak of the mountain very much depends on the amount of training you have done and how physically ready you are. The weather can also affect how long you are on the mountain as, at such high altitudes, the weather can change very quickly. On average, for someone who has trained for the trek, it will take roughly 15-18 days.

  • How cold can it get?

    Temperatures are wide ranging with relatively warm days where thin layers of clothing can be worn as well as bitterly frozen nights. As a result of bad weather from the south, the Plaza de Mulas Base Camp temperature can drop as low as -18°C, with corresponding temperatures at the altitude camps around -25°C. At Base camp it can be warm enough to wear shorts yet a polar jacket may suffice on summit day. The weather at night above 5000m can be around -15 ⁰C  and the summit around –30 ⁰C , however this can be warmer in the day. The weather can change from brilliant sunshine with very little wind to strong and freezing gales. The winds can reduce the temperatures by 15 degrees Celsius.  You need to have the gear to be prepared for lower temperatures should this happen.

  • Is the Aconcagua climbing permit included in your price?

    No. Climbing permits cost around $1000 - $12000 per person and usually go on sale fairly close to the start of the climbing season. When the permits go on sale there is normally a short window of time where they are available at a reduced 'Early Bird' rate. If you are booked onto one of our Normal Route climbs, we will get in touch with you when permits become available.

  • What qualifications do your guides have?

    Mt. Aconcagua State Park has a list of certified and registered guides, it is published in the official website

    This means that every guide in that list has completed her/his degree as a Mountain Guide (most of them are from the local guiding school, one of the two solid guiding schools in the country).


    Our leading guides have been working on Aconcagua for many years and most  began as porters. Most leading guides at the Expeditions teams have reached the summit more than 15-20 times in average. We require every guide to be fluent in English. All our leading guides climb and guide all year round, and most have guided in other parts of the World (Alaska, Peru, Himalayas and Kilimanjaro). The guides, Base Camp staff and porters work together very closely on the mountain, we have the best radio network on the mountain. 


    Our camps are coordinated by a Head of Camp and attended by a specialist (and assistant) chef trained to satisfy your needs. At base camp we have dining tents with electricity, tables, chairs and crockery. Rooms with beds set up in large tents. Kitchen, bathroom and a tent luggage deposit.

  • What insurance do I need?

    It is a condition of joining an Aconcagua climb that you have insurance that covers you up to 7000m and that cover extends to the full cost of evacuation if needed. Policy providers we recommend are Dog Tag and World Nomads, both of whom sell specialist climbing insurance.

  • How much weight will I need to carry on the mountain?

    You will need to bring one large duffel bag, one large expedition backpack and one daypack. At your pre-climb briefing, you r guides will show you how to pack for your expedition and your larger bags will be taken up to the base camp by mule at the start of the climb.


    As you climb above the base camps, you will start to carry your personal climbing equipment up to the higher camps. These carries are split over two days and you will not need to carry any of the group equipment as this will be done by porters. Depending on the gear you have, your bag for these days could weight up to 20kg. 

    Climbers who don't wish to carry their personal gear, can hire a porter. This is best arranged before your trip to guarantee the service and a lower cost. 

    You can find a full packing list on the trip dossier and the website's Normal Route information page. You will also find information on which days you will be carrying your large bags in the trip itinerary.

  • How will the "common gear" be transported?

    Common gear, such as tents, stoves, garbage, first aid kit is carried up to Base Camp by mules.


    From Base Camp up to the first High Camp we do not use mules as they cannot work at these higher altitudes. Porters will carry all group equipment to the high camps so you can concentrate on carrying your personal equipment.

  • What is the success rate on Aconcagua?

    The success rate fluctuates around 50-70% each year, with failed summits largely due to altitude related issues and poor weather conditions.

  • Is there any certification for reaching the summit?

    You will receive a summit certificate, signed and stamped.

  • Is there optional helicopter service available after return from Plaza De Mulas? If so, then what is the cost?

    A helicopter charter is available from Plaza de Mulas to the trailhead (Horcones). This was US $1,700 for 2018 season. From Plaza Argentina to the trailhead (Punta de Vacas) via helicopter it costs U$D 2,000. These costs might have increased by 30-40% (depending on many conditions, such as the Park regulations and contract with the operator, inflation, etc.)

  • Do I need to have crampon & Ice Axe training/experience?

    Crampon and ice axe experience is desirable, although Aconcagua is a trekking mountain so there isn't any technical climbing on the route. We will conduct refresher training on the mountain for those who don't have much experience. We recommend that for your enjoyment on the trip you have experience of using ice axes and crampons, even if this is only in an indoor setting. 

  • What happens with luggage storage in Mendoza while we are on the climb?

    Luggage storage is available at the hotel in Mendoza or a storage facility at Los Penitentes where you can leave items that are not required on the trek itself.

  • What types of meals are provided for breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks?

    At the camps, a normal day would include a hearty breakfast, with eggs, ham, cheese, toasts, orange juice, coffee or tea, cereals. Lunch can be soup and a main course such as pizza with fresh fruits.  Or, a lunch box of sandwiches if the group is moving on the mountain. Dinner can be a steak with salad and some dessert. At Base Camp and up to the first camp, the menu includes more protein, such as meat, chicken, cheese and eggs.

    At Camp II and III, the guides tend to cook more carbohydrates. A sample menu at altitude would be soup, spaghetti with sauce, a small salad and a bar of chocolate.

    We do not use freeze dried food, the guides cook and provide fresh food at every camp.

  • Is vegetarian/vegan food available on the trek. What types of meals are provided?

    Vegetarian and vegan diets are catered for with meals such as vegetable lasagne whilst at altitude. If you require a fully vegan diet, there is an additional supplement.

  • Who will provide water? Do I have to get water purification tablets?

    We provide water but it will not be filtered. You should bring a suitable filtration / sterilisation system to treat water for the duration of your trip. It is recommended that you drink a minimum of 3 litres per day although 5 litres is  preferred as this will help reduce the symptoms of mild altitude sickness. Many people choose to being a UV pen / wand to treat water and these work well in warmer temperatures but are not always reliable at colder temperatures. 

  • Will we have toilets?

    During the hike in to base camps at Confluencia and plaza de Mulas, our camps have bathrooms, which are improved latrines. These are only for our customers and we try to keep them as comfortable as possible. All climbers are required by the Park to use these (there are fines for not using them). You don't have to use bags, or do any special procedures, as we handle all the cleaning and disposal. 

     

    At altitude, we set up small bathroom tents, with a special seat, and you are expected to use bags (that we provide), and then put them in a designated spot, from where our porters will later collect them and take them to the Base Camp for proper disposal. 

  • Do I need to have experience at high altitude to climb Aconcagua?

    In short, yes. On this climb, you will spend multiple nights at high altitudes and it is essential that you understand how your body reacts to being at altitude.