Argentina is a wonderful mix of culture and nature, from the volcanic peaks and salt lakes of the north, to the breathtaking glaciers of Tierra del Fuego. As the world’s 8th largest country, home to the land of gaucho and tango, Argentina has a rich history and vibrant modern lifestyle along with a strong independent spirit. A world renowned wine producer with many vineyards lying in the shadows of the Andes close to Mendoza. Food and wine is inherent to the country, with many European and indigenous influences. Mouth-watering and colossal steaks are famous in Buenos Aires, whilst a lamb barbecue is traditional in Patagonia.
Buenos Aires – The City of Tango
Buenos Aires is vibrant and engaging, with a rich European heritage and the ever present passion and rhythm of the tango, Argentine’s capital known as the “Paris of the South,” has much to occupy visitors; tango shows, flea markets, great shopping, splendid buildings and fabulous restaurants.
The passionate rhythms and true expression of the tango has entranced people to this music genre for over a century. As the most famous musical genre and dance style to come from Argentina the dance today is elegant and combines modern and contemporary dance to continue the heritage of the country.
The Perito Moreno Glacier
Set amidst the spectacular landscapes of Los Glacieres National Park in Argentinean Patagonia, this incredible wall of ice and snow is the third largest reservoir of fresh water covering some 250 sq km; it is 5 km wide at its terminus, rising some 60m above the icy waters. One of South America’s greatest natural wonders, it is even possible to take a short walk across the surface.
Argentina’s North West
Less well-known than the south is the North-West of Argentina. With a more indigenous feel, offering a stark contrast to the European influences of the south, the region is blessed with sunny weather for much of the year. Vineyards lie in the Cafayate region, stunning multi-coloured hills sit close the heart of the Tropic of Capricorn, this is a unearthed region waiting to be explored.
Argentina boasts some of the most important natural bio-diversity on earth, including the 2nd largest wetlands in South America, the most important reserves of fresh water on the continent and an Atlantic seaboard whose waters are alive with breeding whales, orcas and a host of marine mammals and birdlife.
Valdes Peninsula
Home to a number of wildlife species, the Valdes Peninsula is an important breeding ground for the endangered southern right whale, as well as the southern elephant seals and sea lions. Lying along Argentina’s Atlantic Coast its barren rock cliffs are also inhabited by large colonies of birds with 181 species being recorded in the area.
Rincon Del Socorro
Set on the edge of the Ibera wetlands in north east Argentina, this small eco-tourist hotel lies within a nature reserve that is home to a vast diversity of bird, reptile and animal life. With over 400 different types of birdlife life, bird watching is one of many activities that can be enjoyed, as well as boat trips, nature walks and horseback riding.
Yacutinga Lodge
Located along the Iguazu River, 60 kms from the Iguazu Falls and amongst the subtropical rainforests of north-eastern Argentina, the Yacutinga Jungle Lodge lies in an area of great bio-diversity. Built to compliment its surroundings, the lodge invite you to stay in one of its 40 charmingly rustic private suites, offering unique jungle views.
Iguazu Falls
Taller than Niagara Falls and twice as wide, bordering Argentina and Brazil, Iguazu Falls present a mesmerising natural wonder with over 270 waterfalls.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, two thirds of the falls are on the Argentinean side of the river, close to the Iguazu National Park, whilst the one third on the Brazilian side offers the most panoramic views.
The name of the falls originates from the Guraní word for “great water.” First discovered in 1541 by the Spanish explorer Álvar Núñez Cabeza de Vaca, the Parana and Iguazu rivers meet, at the same point as the borders of Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay where landmark for all three countries has been placed in different colours on a spot in each of the countries, marking this meeting point.
The Iguazu river is born in Paraná, Brazil and after crossing 1,200 km on a plateau where it receives several affluents, it reaches a fault forming a creak into the interleaved layers of sandstone and basalt where the river runs. The river runs smoothly until it reaches a series of faults where there is an 80 metre canyon, plunging the water down the mighty Devil’s Throat, producing a thundering sound as it drains into the Parana River.
Enjoy 15 days exploring the South America Coast to Coast from only £2995 per person or why not tailor make your own Argentina tours or South American expedition – call our Latin America specialists now on 08452 703 862.
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Bales Worldwide (formerly known as Bales Tours) is a family run independent tour operator established by George Bales in 1947. Bales have become more and more flexible over time, in order to truly meet your needs. Wherever you decide to travel and whenever you want to travel, whether it is in 14 months time or just 3 weeks away, Bales have 60 years of knowledge and expertise to give you a holiday of a lifetime. 