When I start planning a visit to a new country, it’s handy to do some research before I go so that I know how to get the best out of my trip. It’s always my wish to familiarize myself with a location before I visit.
What is Argentina famous for? With an estimated population of around 44 million, Argentina is ranked as the second-largest Spanish-speaking country in South America. The nation has a thriving nightlife, unique local cuisine, interesting history, and culture, not forgetting its distinct and beautiful geography. It’s home to the current serving pope, Pope Francis.
From the mighty Andes to its gaucho culture and StreetSide tango, there are numerous reasons why people across the world have Argentina on their bucket list.
In this blog post, I share a list of items that Argentina is most famous for: some of the interesting facts about Argentina and locations you don`t want to miss if you visit here.
The Tango
Argentina is the home of tango dance. Here, you can grab your better-half and dance to the rhythm of tango in the Tango headquarters of the world.
The dance, which was certified by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage, is one of the most spectacular and intimate dances on the streets of Argentina.
This provocative dance, which is among the most practiced dances in the world, has a long past.
Tango started in the brothels of Argentina as a dance than enabled prostitutes to seduce and get up close and personal with customers.
The dance spread from the high-end brothels of the nation to Paris, and from there, rose to become a global phenomenon.
Pope Francis
Pope Francis, the current pope, was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina. He was born on December 1936, and his real name is Jorgio Mario Bergoglio. He was elected to the position and declared pope on March 13, 2013.
NOTE: He is regarded as the most supportive and humble pope of all time.
Not only that, he has the distinction of being the only pope with an American origin.
Pope Francis uses his power and influence to speak out for the marginalized and poor people and has had his voice heard in environmental matters as well as in politics.
Gauchos
This list about what is Argentina famous for cannot be complete without mentioning Gauchos! Gauchos were traditionally seen as outlaws and nomads but have risen to be respected as freedom fighters since the mid-16th century.
They are an indication of bravery, are protectors of the country`s land and cattle, as well as expert horse riders and are now seen as a National Symbol of Argentina.
When you visit Argentina, you`ll not only interact with Gauchos but also learn about them as well as horse-back riding.
You may want to check out and engage in the Gaucho shows and fun activities hosted in the numerous Argentine cowboy ranches located in the countryside.
These Argentine cowboys sing folk songs on love and loss during the night, raise and wrestle cattle, and drink the bitter Mate tea. They also wear actual chaps.
Wine
If you are a wine person, you probably know Argentina is a top destination for wine tasting. The country has numerous varietals, including earthy Pinot Noir, fresh Torrontes, and fruity Bonarda.
The region of Mendoza is greatly dominated by the dark, robust, and plum-flavored wine, Malbec. It should not lack on your bucket list.
You`ll want to enjoy a special treat when you drink a glass of wine in the same region from which its grape was grown.
Ranked as the 6th largest wine producer by volume, Argentina offers you an opportunity you can`t miss.
TIP: Many of its wineries offer wine tasting and tours. You can enjoy ravishing mountain views and local vineyards, and if that’s not enough, you can choose to bicycle or horse ride through them.
Ushuaia
Ushuaia, found on the southern coast of Isla Grande de Tiera del Fuego, is often referred to as `End of the world’ since it’s the southernmost point of the continent. It is also the gateway to Antarctica, and this is where you kick start your Antarctica cruise.
Nestled between the Andean ranges, Ushuaia offers excellent opportunities to indulge in its rich history, culture, and natural beauty.
If you’re a sports enthusiast, you can engage in activities like sledding, snowboarding, and skiing, or play in the winter wonderlands of Cerro Castor and Glacier El Martial areas.
Nature and wildlife lovers are not left out here. You can have great views of penguins, seals, and orcas that rule the islands across the Beagle Channel.
The Biennial of Contemporary Art (End of the World) has been hosted here since 2007, and it’s a good exercise for art lovers to take part in.
Buenos Aires
Another item on the list of what is Argentina famous for is Buenos Aires. It is a European-influenced capital. It is a bustling destination known for its tree-lined avenues and nightlife. The city is big, loud and littered with smart people with a unique vibe.
Having a taste of Argentina’s rich culture can quickly be done in this fantastic capital city. You can stroll through some vibrant neighborhoods like Palermo, San Telmo, and the central areas of Montserrat and San Nicolas, which host numerous theatres.
Since it’s the heart and soul of Argentina, Buenos Aires also features delicious food and old colorful neighborhoods.
Fingerprinting
Another less known fact about Argentina is that the country is the birthplace of fingerprinting.
It began back in 1892 after two children from Buenos Aires were murdered.
Their mother claimed that their neighbor had committed the crime, but no significant action was taken on the accused.
After a bloody fingerprint was found, it was found to be that of their mother, and she became the first individual to be found guilty via fingerprint evidence.
It is also in Argentina where the first-ever fingerprint filling system happened. Argentina went on to make fingerprints a way of identification in criminal records and became the first country to do so.
Patagonia
Argentina`s Patagonia National Park is a region replete with wild herds of rampant trails and llama-like guanaco as well as ancient rock.
Created in 2015, the national park sits on 444, 680 acres of land, meaning its twice the size of New York City. Only a quarter of the park has the national park status, though.
Patagonia is a one-of-a-kind area in both its luxury and beauty. There is something for everyone here. You can choose to chill in an eco-camp as you sip some local wine or go hiking among towering peaks.
NOTE: You can also take a Patagonia Cruise through the remote and rugged O Trek or through the W Trek. This is one place that shouldn’t lack on your bucket list as you visit Argentina.
Iguazu Falls
Spanning over 2.5km, Iguazu Falls is one of the most spectacular waterfalls you`ll ever see. Water crashes down from a height of 80 meters.
Nestled among protected rainforest, the Iguazu Falls is considered a point where two nations, Brazil and Argentina, meet.
Making a trip to this wonderful waterfall is a must while on holiday in Argentina as it’s considered as one of the seven natural wonders of our world. The waterfall has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1984.
The rainforests are full of rare animals like the Vinaveous-breasted wild green parrot.
INFO: No worries about accommodation as there is plenty available in hotels on either side of the waterfall for several nights so that you can have a full experience of this fantastic waterfall from both perspectives.
La Recoleta Cemetery
If your perspective of cemeteries is that they are depressing dark, underground matters, then La Recoleta Cemetry in Argentina will turn that on its head.
This is not because graves are set above the ground but because it’s a resting place for the mighty and high not only in Argentina but the whole world.
The La Recoleta Cemetry is one of a kind. It is considered a privilege for someone to be buried in its graveyards. It contains graves of presidents as well as Nobel Prize winners.
Not only is it a resting place for the deceased, but it is also different from a traditional cemetery. The area is filled with detailed carved scroll-work as well as stately pillars.
The graveyards are burial sites for some of Argentina`s famous figures, such as Evita herself. If you visit Buenos Aires, this cemetery is a must-visit.
El Subte Metro
The El Subte metro in Argentina is the oldest metro system in Latin America and the fourth in America. It was commissioned in 1913 and was also the first underground metro system in Latin America.
Though old, the metro system has some of the most beautifully decorated stations on the globe.
This route gives you a clear view of the city of Buenos Aires.
Che Guevera
Che Guevera is a highly recognized and respected face across the globe. His face is printed on posters, murals, and t-shirts across the world.
Guevara played some vital roles in the government after the Cuban revolution, a reason why he`s still a reviled and revered historical figure.
El Chalten
El Chalten is considered Argentina`s National Capital of trekking. Featuring stunning natural scenery, this village in Patagonia offers you an opportunity to go climbing and take a walk. You can also go for excursions and expeditions.
El Chalten is an equivalent of Chile`s Torres del Paine. You can hike in the ice caps or the mountain of southern Argentina.
If you want to get immersed in preserved nature, which will open up your senses, then this is the place to visit.
You can walk along its numerous trails across the magical forest and stop on a few viewpoints to contemplate glaciers and mountains that you`ll live to remember.
NOTE: Here, hiking does not require any prior experience since the treks aren’t so demanding.
Glacier National Park
The Los Glacier National Park was declared a UNESCO world heritage Foundation site back in 1981. You will notice glacier activities around the two lakes within the park: Argentino and Viedma.
The park is found in the southern part of Patagonia, and it’s worth every minute of your time.
You can scale the plateau and have a scenic view of a number of the world’s biggest glaciers, such as Perito Moreno Glacier, as they make their inescapable path via the mountains.
For the lucky ones, you may have views of icebergs the size of skyscrapers spilling from these great wonders of Argentina.
TIP: Ride on horses as you enjoy the natural beauty or relax at the ranches nearby.
Festivals
Argentina is a country with opportunities to celebrate, so many kinds of festivals are held here.
Buenos Aires hosts several of these festivals, including a gay pride parade, gaucho festival, and the Buenos Aires International Festival of Independent Film (BAFICI).
There are several other festivals, such as those celebrating music, art, and tango dance, as well.
There is Oktoberfest celebrated in the first two weeks of October, with a large beer festival that seeks to celebrate German culture.
Jujuy City celebrates (Semana deJujy) when this quite city goes all crazy and comes to life for a week of having fun to celebrate its founding.
Tigre Delta
A 45-minute trip from Buenos Aires by train will take you to Tigre Delta, which empties into the Rio de la Plata.
You`ll want to experience this delta as it’s among the top deltas in the word, and again, it does not empty into an ocean or sea.
Tigre is an area named for the jaguars – previously called tigers—that roamed here sometime back.
The Tigre Delta boasts cooler climate unlike Buenos Aires, and also offer houses on the delta as a significant attraction s they can only be accessed by boat.
TIP: If you are looking to get away from urban life for a moment, Tigre Delta is one place to visit.
Its remote, carefree islands will offer you an adequate reprieve from urban life.
Art
Argentina is quite appreciative of art, as it can be found anywhere across the country. StreetArt, Galleries, Parks, and museums flaunt the famous art and rich culture the county is known for.
For a long time, art in Argentina has moved from being so European-inclined to the current contemporary and free form.
Buenos Aires is among the cities with free-spirited and decorative street art.
You will see great and beautiful wall art around and nearly on every corner as you explore this growing artsy capital.
If you`re an art geek, Argentina should be one of the top destinations on your bucket list. You`ll feed your eyes with such spectacular beauty.
Steak
Argentina is also much known for its food, especially steak. The country is very reputable globally for the quality of its beef.
The country is very famous for its supreme and ultimate steak. You and your friends can have the `Asado,’ which is the country’s answer to barbecues.
You can have a hefty steak from a grass-fed and pasture-raised cow. A steak dinner at one of the parrillas (beef restaurants) in San Telmo.
If you need some energy as you explore the cities and town, try some Argentina`s delicious street food.
Everyone is taken care of as they come with enough fillings for both vegetarians and meat-eaters.
Soccer (Futbol)
Soccer is probably the top sport in South America, and Argentina is on the frontline in terms of soccer talent.
During a matchday in the country, stadiums are filled as thousands of locals and tourists stream in to support their favorite football teams.
Not only that, the country also has a Women National Team.
Here, people take football not only as a sport but also as a culture. The country is also home to one of the best, if not the best footballer to ever grace the game, Lionel Messi.
If you need to go on an adventure, go to a soccer match on one of the match days in Buenos Aires and enjoy the adrenaline that comes with it. It’s a fantastic experience that you won’t forget any time soon.
Peninsula Valdes
Peninsula Valdes is another site in Patagonia considered to have enormous global significance by UNESCO.
The site is home to some endangered animal species like the southern whale, southern sea lions, as well as southern elephant seals.
This is simply the most epic site in Argentina to have views of penguins, grey foxes, and whales. This location is worth the journey.
Beaches
Do you need salty wind on your skin, sand on your feet, and waves lapping on the shore? If you need all this plus isolation and adventure, then Argentina will offer you all that.
There is Puerto Madryn beach if you love whale watching and windsurfing. This beach will quench your thirst for the excellent beach experience.
NOTE: Pinama is one of Argentina`s famous destinations with pocket-friendly neighborhoods and is one of the country`s exclusive beach resorts.
The country has everything you`d want a beach to offer.
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