Backpacking in Argentina is one of the best adventures in South America—huge landscapes, great food, and a mix of culture + wilderness. It’s relatively affordable (depending on inflation) and very rewarding if you plan for the long distances.
🇦🇷 Why Backpack Argentina?
🏔️ Patagonia & Epic Nature
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- Perito Moreno Glacier – massive, walkable glacier
- El Chaltén – hiking capital (Fitz Roy views)
- Wild, dramatic, and unforgettable
🌆 Cities & Culture
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- Buenos Aires – tango, nightlife, European vibe
- Mendoza – wine + Andes views
- Córdoba – student energy
🌄 Natural Wonders
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- Iguazú Falls – one of the biggest waterfalls on Earth
- Salta – desert landscapes + colorful mountains
🥩 Food & Lifestyle
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- Legendary steak (asado) 🥩
- Empanadas everywhere
- Mate culture (you’ll see it everywhere)
🧭 Classic Backpacking Route (3–6 weeks)
Buenos Aires → Iguazú → Salta → Mendoza → Patagonia
- Buenos Aires – culture + nightlife
- → Iguazú Falls – jungle + waterfalls
- → Salta / Jujuy – mountains + deserts
- → Mendoza – wine region
- ✈️ Fly south → El Calafate & El Chaltén (Patagonia)
💰 Budget
- 💵 Budget: €30–70/day (can fluctuate due to inflation)
- 🛏️ Hostels: €8–25/night
- 🍔 Food: €5–15 per meal
- ✈️ Domestic flights: often necessary (country is HUGE)
💡 Argentina can feel cheap or expensive depending on exchange rates
🚍 Getting Around
- 🚌 Long-distance buses are very comfortable (semi-cama/cama seats)
- ✈️ Flights save huge amounts of time
- 🚗 Hitchhiking is common in Patagonia
Transport in Argentina
⚠️ Things to Know
- Distances are massive (Patagonia is far south!)
- Weather varies a lot:
- Patagonia = windy & cold
- North = hot & dry
- Cash situation can be complicated (exchange rates matter)
🎒 Who It’s Perfect For
- Nature lovers ✔️
- Hikers ✔️
- Food & culture fans ✔️
💬 Bottom line
Argentina is one of the most diverse backpacking destinations in the world—from glaciers to jungles to cities. It takes effort to cover, but the payoff is huge.