Snuggled between Chile and the Atlantic Ocean, with Bolivia, Paraguay, Brazil and Uruguay to its north, Argentina covers approximately 1.1 million miles of South America’s tip. Each of Argentina’s 6 distinct geographical regions offers something unique for the adventurous traveler.
The Paraná Plateau
At the farthest reaches of Argentina’s northeast, the Parana Plateau is actually a continuation of the southernmost Brazil highlands. A visit to this extremely wet region with a thick forest cover rewards visitors with the breathtaking Iguacu Falls. In addition to hundreds of waterfalls and stunning scenery, the Iguacu Falls (located in a national park where Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay meet) offers brightly-colored birds and butterflies as well as dazzling varieties of begonias and rare orchids.
The Gran Chaco
Considered to be the only remaining spread of relatively unexplored wilderness in South America, the Gran Chaco occupies some 250,000 square miles through the northern corner of Argentina, as well as portions of Bolivia, Paraguay and Brazil. This extremely hot, parched lowland plain is nonetheless attracting nature-loving eco-travelers who are drawn to its thousands of species of flora, wide variety of birds and wild animals, such as pumas, wolves, and jaguars. Chaco National Park offers an ample shaded camping area with access to a number of excellent trains. There are bathrooms, fire-pits, tables, drinking water and electricity.
The Pampas
Central Argentina offers world-class beaches as well as the very metropolitan city of Buenos Aires. Be sure to visit the beautiful parks and architecture of the Palermo and Recoleta neighborhoods, the Colon Theatre (considered to be one of the world’s most important opera theaters), and the May Square (Plaza de Mayo) If you happen to be in Buenos Aires on a Sunday, pay a visit to the popular San Telmo Street Market.
The birthplace of tango, Buenos Aires nightlight is unequaled. After a sumptuous steak dinner (Argentina is known for its beef), enjoy a tango show in one of Argentina’s many hotspots: El viejo almacén, La Ventana, Sabor a Tango or Senor Tango.
The Monte
What Australia refers to as “the bush,” Argentina refers to as “the Monte.” Die-hard bicyclists and trekkers are drawn to this flat, colorful desert area, as well as bird lovers. But be prepared for rugged – although camping areas and trails are available, they are few and far between.
Patagonia
The southernmost tip of Argentina is known as Patagonia (which also extends into Chile). Visitors can go whale-watching in Chabut, SCUBA diving at Puerto Madryn, or trekking on some of the world’s most impressive glaciers. For a glimpse of the area’s Welsh ancestry, visit the colonial city of Carmen de Patagones.
The Andes Mountains
One of the longest and highest mountain ranges in the world, the Andes Mountains stretch along the west coast of South America some 4200 miles. In addition to the obvious attraction in this region (mountain climbing), the Andes offer a special treat for wine lovers as many wineries lay ripe for exploring within its picturesque hidden villages. Mendoza, which is also known as the "Tierra del Vino" (land of wine), is situated at the foot of the Andes Mountain range.
