From the beautiful city of Buenos Aires to the stunning Iguazu waterfalls and Patagonia region, Argentina attracts a wide range of travelers. City-lovers and nature-lovers alike are happy to pass through this country, due to its variety of activities. You can soak up the unique, cosmopolitan vibes of Buenos Aires or head the furthest reaches for pristine hiking and camping; it’s really up to you. No matter where you’re headed in the country, most new travelers to Argentina will pass through Buenos Aires.
Since it is the capital, with two main airports, it is the obvious point of entry for visitors to this stunning country. Whether you have other destinations in mind or not, we recommend that any new travelers to Argentina spend at least a few days in Buenos Aires! Known as “the Paris of the South,” Buenos Aires captivates visitors with its architecture, history, cuisine, and more. It shouldn’t be missed! Keep reading for the do’s and don’ts of visiting Argentina and tips for surviving the area!
What to Expect When Arriving: At the Airport
When coming in on an international flight, you are most likely to land at the Ministro Pistarini International Airport. You will go through customs and the baggage pick-up area. Most tourists don’t need a visa to visit Argentina for up to 90 days, so this process is generally simple. Be sure you have your hotel’s or accommodation’s address on hand, as the customs agents will ask. If you are traveling with kids or for work, ensure that you have the proper paperwork to address any questions from the customs agents.
There are few restrictions on what you can bring through customs. Beyond the common no food products or animals, Argentina has restrictions around bringing new electronics into the country (TVs, phones, computers), due to its focus on national production. To avoid any hassle, don’t bring any brand-new electronics through customs (still in the box) and do not bring more than you need for personal use.
Things to Know: It’s One City With Two Airports
Be aware that Buenos Aires’ airport situation is a lot like New York. There are two airports, the Jorge Newbery Airport (Aeroparque – AEP) and the Ministro Pistarini International Airport (Ezeiza – EZE), and they are some distance away from one another, usually a 45 minute drive. If you have a connecting flight immediately after landing in Buenos Aires, chances are it will be in the more-locally focused Jorge Newbery (AEP) airport. It is not uncommon for airlines to book connections in the other airport, which require you to switch airports. If you are continuing immediately to Patagonia, Iguazú, Mendoza, Ushuaia, Bariloche, or another domestic location, check your tickets before you flight, as you may have a connection that requires you to switch airports.
If you have a ticket like this, make sure you plan your airport transfer in advance and build in a long layover time. If you don’t have transportation arranged, you may end up spending far too much on a taxi or miss your flight waiting to get on one of the transfer buses. This is also something to think about when you’re leaving Argentina. Make sure that you’re always clear with taxi drivers on which airport you need to go to, and follow the route on your phone, if you want to be sure you’re headed in the right direction. Mixing up these two airports can have big consequences, since they are normally 45 minutes apart by car.
Tips for Surviving the Area: Getting Into the City
If Buenos Aires is your destination, at least when you first land, you’ll need to get into the city from the airport. The Ministro Pistarini International Airport (Ezeiza) is about 40 minutes – 1 hour outside of the city by car. You’ll have several options for getting into the city. The simplest is reserving a transfer in advance, so you have someone waiting for you in arrivals. This is the easiest method, but is more expensive than other options.
Most travelers opt for a registered taxi or simply call a car using Uber or Cabify. If you plan to hire a car like this, ensure that you get an official taxi or Uber, as taxi scammers can be a problem. Never accept a ride from someone who approaches you in the arrivals area. If you want to get a taxi, proceed to the marked taxi pick-up point outside. Generally, you should expect a taxi ride or Uber to cost $25 – $30 dollars to central Buenos Aires.
If you really want to save money, there are public transportation options and shared shuttle buses, such as Tienda Leon and Mini Bus EZE, that take large groups to central locations in the city. From there, you’ll have to grab a cab or call an Uber to your next destination. We don’t recommend this for new travelers to Argentina or travelers who don’t speak Spanish, as getting from the shuttle bus drop-off point to your hotel can be quite overwhelming.
Navigating BA for New Travelers to Argentina
Good news for new travelers to Argentina! There are plenty of options for getting around the city. Once you get in the city, most tourist attractions are reasonably close to one another. Pack some comfortable walking shoes, as walking is often a good option for getting between places! However, you’ll find that some sites may be further than you’d like to walk. If that is the case, consider these other transportation options:
- Riding the Subway: Argentina has a great subway system that is the fastest way to get to most places. To use the subway, you’ll need to first purchase and load money onto the public transportation carb (SUBE). Some subway stations sell these cards, as well as small, bodega stores on the street. Once you have your card, keep an eye on the amount on it, since you can’t ride without credit. While the subway is a great, cost-effective option for travel during the day, we don’t recommend using the subway at night, as it is less safe. You should also avoid using the subway during rush hours, between 8 – 9 am or 5 – 7pm, as they get really crowded and risk for pickpocketing is much greater.
- Using a Cab or Uber: flagging down a registered/licensed taxi, using Cabify, or calling an Uber are all great options for getting where you need to go. While this is more expensive than taking the subway, you’ll get to see the city as you ride! When riding in a taxi, always make sure your driver turns on the meter at the beginning of the ride, to avoid higher costs later.
- Riding the Bus: we don’t recommend using the bus system, unless you speak Spanish and you have some patience. While buses can take you almost anywhere in the city, it can be confusing to figure out where each bus is headed. If you decide to brave it, utilize the app “Cómo Llego” to help you figure out where to board. You’ll need a SUBE card to pay, as cash is not accepted on board. Be courteous while waiting for the bus. Argentines tend to form orderly lines at bus stops, and it is considered extremely rude to skip the line. If you’re not sure which line you should be in, simply ask!
No matter how you choose to navigate the city, be aware that petty theft is a big problem in Buenos Aires. Make sure that when you’re out, you keep your valuables stowed and don’t keep wallets or phones in back pockets. For the most security, use a crossbody bag, so your valuables are always in your line of sight. We also recommend putting small luggage locks on any backpacks and keeping your cell phone out of sight whenever you’re walking around.
Do’s and Don’ts for Dealing with the Locals
Whenever you’re visiting a new country, it is a good idea to know a few do’s and don’ts. These are a few of our do’s and don’ts for new travelers to Argentina!
- Don’t Talk About the Falkland Islands, Politics, or Religion: political leaders, Chile, relations with Great Britain, the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas), and religion (especially abortion) are all sensitive topics in Argentina. It is best to avoid asking about these things or talking about them, as they can evoke some very passionate responses.
- Do Tip Service Providers: it is customary in Argentina to tip around 10% for good service at a restaurant. You’ll also want to carry some spare pesos to tip bellhops and small service providers.
- Don’t Give the “Thumbs-Up” Sign: keep your thumbs to yourself! The okay hand gesture and thumbs-up gesture are both considered rude or vulgar in most of Argentina. Best to avoid these gestures altogether.
- Do Learn Some Basic Spanish: locals are much friendlier when visitors have a few basic Spanish phrases under their belts. While English is widely taught and you’ll be fine using English in most tourist situations, we recommend knowing a few Spanish phrases. It’ll help you connect with the locals and build a little goodwill along the way.
These tips should set you up for a great visit to Argentina!
Exploring Everything Argentina Has to Offer
Argentina is an absolutely beautiful country, with lots of areas to explore. No matter what your interests are, you can find the right activity for you! Whether you plan to go beyond Buenos Aires or not, we recommend spending at least a few days in Buenos Aires. It is a truly unique city in South America, offering everything from tango and history to delicious cuisine and modern arts. Keep our do’s and don’ts in mind and enjoy Argentina!
Author:
Morgan H. is a writer and marketer, based in the US. She has lived in four different countries, including Argentina, and visited many more. When she’s not traveling, she loves helping other people build the perfect adventure for themselves.