If you’re looking for beauty in Argentina, you won’t have to travel far. Argentina may be the fourth largest country in the Americas, but this is not a country that doles out its beauty in spoonfuls. Natural wonders abound, from roaring falls and painted hills in the north to stunning glaciers and rugged peaks in the south. Argentina is a land of unceasing beauty at every turn. And while it’s true that beauty is in the eye of the beholder, some beauties just can’t be ignored. So, if you wanna get swept up by the natural wonders and man-made stunners of Argentina, here are the most beautiful places to visit for an unforgettable trip.
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Table of Contents
- Los Glaciares National Park
- Iguazú Falls
- Bariloche
- Mendoza
- Ushuaia
- Aconcagua
- Talampaya National Park
- Ischigualasto Provincial Park
- Monte Fitz Roy
- Nahuel Huapi National Park
- Salinas Grandes Salt Flats
- Trevelin
- Quebrada de Humahuaca
- Salta
Los Glaciares National Park
It’s not hard to see that Los Glacieres National Park is a stunner. As part of the spectacular Patagonia region, this park boasts beauty by the bucketload. And it’s unlike anything else you’ll see in Argentina or most other places, for that matter. With 47 large glaciers and dozens of small ones scattered throughout the park, it certainly lives up to its name.
As the largest national park in Argentina, it’s no surprise that this park is home to jaw-dropping sights and endless adventures, from Perito Moreno Glacier to Lago Argentino and more. And while you certainly don’t need to hike to enjoy the beauty of this park, nothing beats the sublime views from above. It’s a surreal experience of the country’s natural wonders and the best way to dive deep into one of the most beautiful places in Argentina.
Best Time to Go
Head to Los Glacieres National Park between October and May (spring to fall) for warmer temperatures, clearer skies, and longer daylight hours the closer you get to summer.
Where to Stay
El Calafate is the gateway to Los Glaciares National Park. Rest your head at Estancia La Estela for fun activities and splendid lake views. Or, indulge in a stay at EOLO – Patagonia’s Spirit for an exclusive and luxurious accommodation where you can enjoy your surroundings from bed or dive outdoors and straight into the action.
Iguazú Falls
Legend says that a rageful god formed the Iguazú Falls after the woman he intended to marry ran away with a human man. Seeing the falls in person certainly brings that story to life. The beauty of this place is otherworldly. It’s no wonder they’re a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature.
Comprised of roughly 275 waterfalls, the falls are taller and wider than Niagara Falls. And because the falls form a natural horseshoe, you can stand on the viewing platform and be surrounded by 260-degree views of the thundering waterfalls. The Iguazú Falls are a thrilling experience, whether standing near the Devil’s Throat, walking over the falls, or navigating the waters below. Between its size, sound, and soaking spray, it’s a sensory experience unlike any other that is guaranteed to take your breath away.
Best Time to Go
The Iguazú Falls are a year-round destination. That means the best time to go will be determined by what you want from your visit. Sunny skies? Plan for April through September. Looking to admire the falls at their fullest? Visit between December and February. Want to avoid the crowds? Skip a trip in January, February, or July, when holidays see an uptick in crowds.
Where to Stay
Gran Meliá Iguazú is the only option to stay inside the Iguazú Falls National Park. Still, with luxury amenities, onsite restaurants and bars, and rooms overlooking the waterfalls—it’s a spoiled choice you won’t regret. For a nearby alternative, check out the Falls Iguazú Hotel & Spa. Located in Puerto Iguazú, it offers an immersive nature experience, complemented by spa services and easy access to adventure.
Bariloche
San Carlos de Bariloche, often referred to simply as Bariloche, is a mountain town located in the picturesque Patagonia region, situated in Argentina’s Lake District. The town boasts a significant amount of alpine charm, primarily due to the Bavarian-style makeover it underwent in the 1930s. Bariloche’s historic district features charming wood and stone buildings that resemble many Swiss towns. Even Mitre Street, dotted with numerous chocolate cafes, is called the Avenue of Chocolate Dreams. You can’t miss having a taste.
Perched on the lakeside, Bariloche is the perfect place to rest your head between days of mountain hiking, boat rides on the lake, skiing and snowboarding in the winter, and so much more. From the spires of its neo-Gothic cathedral on the shores of Lake Nahuel Huapi to the panoramic views from the summit of Cerro Otto, Bariloche’s glistening lakes, rugged peaks, and alpine charms reward travelers with spectacular scenery at every turn and make it one of the most beautiful places in Argentina.
Best Time to Go
Summer is best for appreciating the stunning lakes and exploring the exquisite landscapes. In contrast, winter is an ideal time to take advantage of winter sports in the mountains. Bariloche is a near-perfect destination in every season, so visitors can’t go wrong with their top pick.
Where to Stay
Some of the best places to stay are right by the lake. Situated on a cliff overlooking Lake Nahuel Huapi, Charming Luxury Lodge & Private Spa is like a mini alpine village, complete with cozy rooms and jaw-dropping views. For options on the lake, there’s Lirolay Suites. This boutique hotel feels like an elevated cabin stay, complete with private suite access, warm cottage vibes, and best of all, a breathtaking view.
Mendoza
As the heart of Argentina’s wine country, Mendoza is a place that oozes colonial style, breathtaking vistas, and, of course, spectacular wine. The town of Mendoza itself is a small, charming city—think romantic squares and tree-lined avenues. In contrast to the business of Buenos Aires, Mendoza is a serene destination, where visitors can take their time soaking in the friendly atmosphere and enjoy finding their favorite bite among the town’s restaurants. But Mendoza isn’t just a charming city; it’s a gateway to wine country.
Over 800 wineries dot the bucolic countryside, from the Valle de Uco to the Lujan de Cuyo and the foothills of the Andes. Driving or biking through the countryside is a scenic way to pass the time. Shimmering lakes and rivers are perfect for kayaking or rafting, while towering mountains promise sensational treks and trails. In the winter, visitors can ski down powdered slopes or take a dip in thermal baths. The possibilities are endless. And much like a fine wine, Mendoza only gets better the more time you spend here.
Best Time to Go
The best time to visit Argentina is from October to April, encompassing the country’s late fall, summer, and early spring. Both spring and fall boast warm temperatures, fewer crowds, and bursts of colors, from spring blooms in October to fall colors in April.
Where to Stay
There are a plethora of options for overnight stays in Mendoza. The Diplomatic Hotel is right in the city center and within walking distance of shops and parks. Lares De Chacras is a classic country-style boutique in Chacras de Coria, just a short drive from downtown Mendoza. Or head to Chozos Resort for a vineyard stay featuring luxurious rooms and expansive views of the Argentine Alps.
Ushuaia
People might not expect the end of the world to be beautiful, but in Argentina, that’s precisely what you’ll find. Ushuaia is often referred to as the World’s End because it’s the southernmost city in the world and the last stop on the Pan American Highway. The town of Ushuaia itself is, in a word, eclectic—combining a fascinating fishing history, rich indigenous culture, and unspoiled nature. The town’s museums give insight into its storied history and culture. As for the unspoiled nature, well, that’s all around.
Explore mountains, lakes, waterfalls, and glaciers in Tierra del Fuego National Park. Venture out into Beagle Channel to see stunning spots like Sea Lion Island, Les Éclaireurs Lighthouse, and the penguin colony on Martillo Island. And, of course, take in the beauty, from horseback riding along the coast to kayaking along the bay. Ushuaia is full of grand adventures, beautiful places, and a quiet character that makes it an unmissable stop in Argentina.
Best Time to Go
Anytime is a great time to visit Ushuaia. But for infinite adventures, there’s no better time than the summer months. Visitors can enjoy the longest daylight hours, the penguin populations reach their peak, and the weather is ideal—or Ushuaia’s equivalent, anyway—for trekking, horseback riding, boat navigation, and other outdoor activities.
Where to Stay
Lennox Hotels Ushuaia is a boutique hotel located in the heart of the city, offering a spectacular view of the Beagle Channel and near many major tourist destinations. Utaka Cabañas Y Aparts sits a bit further outside of the city, but still within walking distance, with private apartments and scenic garden views.
Aconcagua
Known as the highest mountain in the Americas, Aconcagua is one of the seven summits of the world, a collection of the highest peaks on each continent. After the towering Mount Everest in Asia, it’s the highest. And while you can, and many people do, climb to its summit, there are other ways to admire the beauty of this Andes mountain.
Aconcagua Provincial Park sits within the Mendoza Province of the Andes Mountains. The park is littered with impressive peaks. And despite its barren landscape, the park is breathtaking in its beauty and diversity, from snow-capped mountains to deep valley vistas. Depending on how long you have, visitors can explore the circuits, which span anywhere from a two-hour hike to a seven-day trek. Aconcagua may not be your typical beauty, but if what you’re looking for is a unique place to explore or climb to the world’s highest heights, Aconcagua is it.
Best Time to Go
Whether you aim to climb to the peak or hike through Aconcagua Provincial Park, plan to visit in the summer. Also known as climbing season, summer promises the most favorable weather for enjoying the park to the fullest.
Where to Stay
Hospedaje Desvio Las Lenas is a quiet, cozy stay located just off the highway and minutes from the park entrance. Or, if you have a car, Mendoza is another spot to consider. Lujan de Cuyo B&B sits on the Wine Routes, just a few hours’ drive from the park, with comfortable rooms, complimentary breakfast, and lovely views of the Andes Mountains.
Talampaya National Park
Sweeping red hills, towering rock formations, and majestic sandstone cliffs make this one of the most beautiful places to visit in Argentina. Millions of years have shaped Talampaya National Park into the jaw-dropping landscape it is today. Walking through this park is like setting foot on Mars. But one major thing Talampaya has that Mars doesn’t, aside from greater gravity, is dinosaurs. Visitors tread the very same ground that dinosaurs walked millennia ago, including one of the oldest dinosaurs in the world. And that’s even before diving into the incredible natural landmarks themselves. Dramatic scenes like El Rey Mago and El Monje are just the start. Whether journeying through time to discover rock art, camping in the moonlight to take in the stars, or just standing beneath the great shadows cast by the towering cliffs, Talampaya is a beauty in every shape, form, and time.
Best Time to Go
Unlike most places in Argentina, summer is not the best time to visit Talampaya, and that’s due to the heat. Consequently, it’s best to visit between March and October, when the weather is dry and daytime temperatures are more bearable.
Where to Stay
For a night under the stars, camp at the Talampaya campsite for an experience unlike any other. But, if you don’t like the idea of roughing it at Talampaya National Park, Tres Cruces Lodge is located 30 minutes away. Guests can enjoy modern cabins and amenities while indulging in the natural wonders of Talampaya.
Ischigualasto Provincial Park
Mysterious. Otherworldly. Awe-inspiring. Just across the way from the dramatic, Mars-like world of Talampaya lies Ischigualasto Provincial Park. Called the Moon Valley of Argentina, Ischigualasto’s landscape looks like it was transported straight from the surface of the moon. A barren white landscape stretches as far as the eye can see. Hunt down strange rock formations like the Submarine and the Mushroom. Framed by red sandstone cliffs in the background, they’re some of the most photographed landmarks in the park.
And while it’s 250 million years too late to walk with dinosaurs, the onsite museum lets you get an upclose look at replicas of ancient reptiles found in the park. Ischigualasto holds all the beauty of a time long passed and a world unlike this one, without the hassle of finding a time machine or experiencing zero gravity to get to it. And that’s what makes it one of the coolest places to discover in Argentina.
Best Time to Go
Plan your visit during the Argentine spring (September to November) or fall (March to May). Both seasons boast weather that’s sunny, mild, and dry, making it ideal for outdoor exploration.
Where to Stay
For a comfortable stay that’s not too far from the action, head to Tres Cruces Lodge in Villa Union. This spot offers modern cabins, ample open space, and magnificent natural views, just an hour and a half from Ischigualasto.
Monte Fitz Roy
Patagonia has its share of jaw-dropping landscapes. That’s what makes it even more impressive when one manages to stake out a space for itself among the crowded fray. Monte Fitz Roy does that and more. Rugged and breathtaking, this soaring peak rises from the Los Glaciares National Park to pierce the sky with its jagged point. The view of it makes for a dramatic backdrop in every photo.
But rather than just snapping a photo, Fitz Roy is best experienced by every forest, lagoon, valley, and mountain peak. The classic Fitz Roy trek is a bucket-list adventure, but even simple day hikes reveal the charms of this landscape, from glacier-fed lakes, such as Laguna Torre and Laguna de los Tres, to sweeping summits like Loma de Las Pizarras and Loma del Pliegue Tumbado. It won’t take much to convince you this is one of the most beautiful places in all of Argentina.
Best Time to Go
Spring brings the landscape around Monte Fitz Roy to life in a vibrant way. Colorful blooms and active wildlife make this an excellent time to visit, hike, and enjoy the scenery.
Where to Stay
For an affordable yet comfortable stay, the apartments at Latitud 49 Apart come with a fully equipped kitchen, private bathroom, and easy access to restaurants and attractions nearby. Or treat yourself to a glamping experience with sensational views of Fitz Roy at Chalten Camp.
Nahuel Huapi National Park
Natural wonders are par for the course in Argentina. However, despite being seemingly commonplace, they still feel like magic every time you set foot in a new one. Visiting Nahuel Huapi National Park feels like that. A landscape of lush forests, crystal-clear lakes, and snow-capped mountains—Nahuel Huapi National Park looks like a painting brought to life. Chosen as one of Argentina’s own seven natural wonders in 2019, the park is a nature lover’s dream. The park holds a treasure trove of beauties, from the majestic peak of Tronador to the thundering cascade of Cascada de Los Alerces and the unparalleled beauty of Lake Nahuel Huapi. Climb hills in your trainers, spot local wildlife, or simply relax on a picnic blanket and take in the view. Nahuel Huapi National Park is a paradise for diving headfirst into Patagonia’s natural beauty.
Best Time to Go
Summer is the best time to explore this beautiful natural wonder in Argentina, with the perfect weather to explore endless places around the park. The season brings warm temperatures for lake swims, long days for exploring hiking trails, and an abundance of active wildlife for unique encounters.
Where to Stay
Bariloche offers unfettered access to Nahuel Huapi National Park. For a gorgeous stay right on the lake, there’s Cacique Inacayal Lake & Spa Hotel. Los Nires Lodge Cerro Catedral sits nestled at the base of a mountain, with cozy lodges and mountain views. Or, for an indulgent treat, stay a night—or forever—at the Isla Victoria Lodge, for an island getaway right on the lake.
Salinas Grandes Salt Flats
Salt flats likely aren’t the first thing you think of when you think about Argentina. Patagonia’s rugged peaks? Absolutely. Mendoza’s sprawling vineyards? Of course. Great expanses of salt? Not so much. And yet Argentina boasts one of the largest salt flats in the world. Formed from volcanic action over 10 million years ago, the salt flats retain a majestic and otherworldly aura, even with a highway cutting right through them. But that just means easier access for those coming to see these beauties in person.
The Salinas Grandes are far from a drive-by spot; they’re one of Argentina’s spectacular treasures. This is definitely one of those beautiful places in Argentina you’ll want to take your time experiencing. Look out for llamas and vicuñas that frequent the area. Keep your eyes peeled for pockets of water, denoting where salt farmers have already harvested the salt. And you can’t leave without filling up your camera roll, from jaw-dropping shots of the flats to cliche but fun perspective photos.
Best Time to Go
Unlike the rest of Argentina, the Salinas Grandes Salt Flats experience only two seasons. The dry season, from May to December, features dry salt landscapes that make for striking perspective shots. In contrast, the wet season, which runs from January to March, reveals a completely different side to the flats, with a thin layer of water creating a stunning mirror effect.
Where to Stay
There are a few towns to stay around Salinas Grandes, but Tilcara is the ideal place to set up home base. Patio Alto offers good value, a homemade breakfast, and a comfortably remote feel, while Las Terrazas Hotel Boutique is a rustic hotel boasting spacious rooms and beautiful surroundings.
Trevelin
A picturesque mountain town, Trevelin is a hidden gem. On the surface, it’s not the most impressive landscape in Patagonia. But this is far from just any old place in Argentina. Give it time, and its subtle scenery transforms into an overwhelming display of beauty. Mountain views, scenic vineyards, and national parks are just the start. Come springtime, blooming tulip fields add a charming dash of color and vibrancy that turn Trevelin into a storybook town straight out of a fairytale. Take a trip in a hot air balloon to see the dazzling fields from above or head out in the evening for an enchanting dinner set in the tulip fields. However you choose to experience Trevelin, it’s something you’ll never forget. From sipping wine to chasing waterfalls, Trevelin is a spot where you won’t regret stopping to smell the roses (tulips).
Best Time to Go
Visit Trevelin between October and November to see the tulips. Be sure to stay after nightfall to capture some stunning night shots of the mountains, the night sky, and thousands of tulips.
Where to Stay
Trevelin’s charm extends to its stays: no big hotel chains here, just charming cabins and lodges. Hosteria Canela B&B feels like a home away from home, with its brick and timber facade and cozy rooms. Or, for more natural settings, check out Challhuaquen Lodge. Here, the decor is just as stunning as the view, the food is immaculate, and you can even try fly fishing for a unique experience.
Quebrada de Humahuaca
Just when you think you’ve seen everything, another jaw-dropping spectacle comes along to blow your mind and make you rethink everything. Welcome to Quebrada de Humahuaca. This narrow mountain valley boasts plenty of quaint and cozy towns, but Humahuaca is the standout star. Say hello to endless desert landscapes, hillsides dotted with colorful cacti, and the pièce de résistance, Rainbow Mountain. The official name for Rainbow Mountain is Serranía de Hornocal, and thanks to its sheer beauty, this is the one thing you can’t miss in Humahuaca. Between the view and the altitude—14,271 ft above sea level—you’re guaranteed to lose your breath once you see the mountain’s 14 colors for yourself.
Best Time to Go
This is a year-round destination that’s enjoyable in any season. But the best times to experience it are spring and fall, when the weather is drier and there’s less chance of rain. Consider too the time of day. Argentina’s Rainbow Mountain is most spectacular in the late afternoon and evening, when the western sun hits and the colors really pop!
Where to Stay
For a hostel stay in an old adobe, check out Hostel La Humahuacasa. The rooms are clean and tidy, and the vibe is friendly, making it the perfect spot to connect with other travelers. Or, for a pleasant lodge experience, try La Chakana Humahuaca for spacious apartments, comfortable rooms, and a short walk to the city center.
Salta
With a nickname like Salta la Linda (Salta the Beautiful), travelers already have an idea what they’re in for. But the reality is so much more. Colonial buildings carry centuries of charm, and cobblestone streets lead to beautiful squares sporting stone statues and verdant gardens. The churches in Salta are the kind of beautiful that makes you stop, stare, and take as many pictures as can fit in your camera roll. Take in the blue vaulted ceilings of the Iglesia de la Viña, the history housed inside the ornate San Francisco Church, and the beautifully enchanting pastel facade of the Salta Cathedral. Walking the streets of Salta unveils charm at every turn. But don’t forget to take a moment to head to the top of Cerro San Bernardo for a panoramic view of the city that brings it all together.
Best Time to Go
Spring and fall are fantastic times to visit places in the northwest of Argentina for cooler temperatures, less rain, and cheaper prices. Autumn also sees the wine harvest take place, making it a perfect time for wine lovers to visit and enjoy Salta’s vineyards.
Where to Stay
Salta offers plenty of beautiful options for resting your head between Argentinian adventures. Hotel La Candela sits near the heart of the city and boasts clean rooms, a friendly staff, and even a pool for those warm days. Kkala Boutique Hotel is situated at the foot of a mountain just minutes from the city center. Cozy rooms, beautiful views, and breakfast to start your morning make this a great place to start and end your day.
