Traveling from northern Argentina to southern Argentina is an incredible journey, offering a chance to experience the country’s vast landscapes, from the deserts and salt flats of the north to the glaciers and dramatic scenery of Patagonia in the south. This 14-day itinerary that will take you through the highlights of Argentina, covering everything from the famous Iguazú Falls to the breathtaking landscapes of Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world.
Day 1: Arrival in Salta (Northern Argentina)
Arrival: Fly into Salta, one of Argentina’s most charming colonial cities.
Morning: Stroll around the Plaza 9 de Julio and admire the Catedral de Salta and the Cabildo. Visit the Museo de Arqueología de Alta Montaña to learn about the Inca mummies discovered on nearby mountains.
Afternoon: Take a cable car ride up to Cerro San Bernardo for panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains.
Evening: Enjoy a traditional salteña dinner at a local restaurant, featuring regional specialties like empanadas salteñas.
Day 2: Explore the Quebrada de Humahuaca
Morning: Drive to the Quebrada de Humahuaca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This stunning valley is known for its colorful hills, traditional villages, and indigenous culture.
Afternoon: Visit Tilcara, where you can explore the Pucará de Tilcara (an ancient fort) and the Humahuaca village with its striking Cerro de los Siete Colores (Hill of Seven Colors).
Evening: Return to Salta for the night.
Day 3: Salta to Jujuy
Morning: Drive to Jujuy, a small town with a colonial center. En route, visit Purmamarca and its famous Cerro de los Siete Colores.
Afternoon: Explore Jujuy‘s Plaza Belgrano and Catedral de San Salvador.
Evening: Relax in Jujuy or return to Salta for the night.
Day 4: Fly to Iguazú
Morning: Fly from Salta to Iguazú (approximately 1.5-hour flight). Arrive in Puerto Iguazú.
Afternoon: Head to Iguazú National Park, home to the famous Iguazú Falls. Explore the Upper and Lower Circuits and the Devil’s Throat viewpoint.
Evening: Enjoy dinner in Puerto Iguazú with views of the surrounding jungle.
Day 5: Explore Iguazú Falls
Morning: Take a boat tour to get up close to the falls, or enjoy a thrilling adventure hike through the surrounding rainforest.
Afternoon: Visit the Iguazú Bird Park, where you can see native bird species up close.
Evening: Enjoy a dinner with regional cuisine such as surubí (fish from the Paraná River).
Day 6: Travel to Córdoba
Morning: Fly from Iguazú to Córdoba (approximately 1.5 hours). Córdoba is one of Argentina’s oldest cities, known for its colonial architecture and vibrant student life.
Afternoon: Explore the Plaza San Martín, the Córdoba Cathedral, and Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús.
Evening: Experience Córdoba’s lively nightlife, with plenty of cafes, bars, and restaurants offering traditional Argentine fare.
Day 7: Explore the Sierras de Córdoba
Morning: Take a day trip into the Sierras de Córdoba mountains. Visit the charming town of La Cumbrecita, a picturesque Austrian-style village in the hills, or hike in Quebrada del Condor to spot the endangered Andean condor.
Afternoon: Continue exploring the natural beauty of the Sierras Grandes, perhaps enjoying some light trekking or a relaxing afternoon by a mountain lake.
Evening: Return to Córdoba for the night.
Day 8: Fly to Mendoza (Wine Region)
Morning: Fly from Córdoba to Mendoza, Argentina’s world-famous wine region.
Afternoon: Visit a vineyard in the Maipú or Luján de Cuyo regions for a wine tour and tasting. Learn about the Malbec wine and the history of Mendoza’s wine industry.
Evening: Enjoy a gourmet dinner paired with local wines.
Day 9: Mendoza Wine Tour & Andes Views
Morning: Continue your wine exploration with a visit to the Uco Valley, one of the most prestigious wine regions in Argentina, known for its views of Aconcagua, the tallest mountain in the Americas.
Afternoon: Take a guided hike in the Andes Mountains or visit the Aconcagua Provincial Park for breathtaking views of the peak.
Evening: Return to Mendoza for the night.
Day 10: Fly to Bariloche (Lake District)
Morning: Fly from Mendoza to San Carlos de Bariloche (approximately 1.5 hours). Bariloche is known for its Swiss-style architecture and stunning views of Lake Nahuel Huapi.
Afternoon: Explore Civic Center and stroll along the lake. Don’t miss the iconic Cerro Otto and Cerro Campanario viewpoints, which offer spectacular panoramas of the surrounding lakes and mountains.
Evening: Try some chocolate (Bariloche is famous for its artisanal chocolates) and enjoy dinner in one of the cozy mountain lodges or local restaurants.
Day 11: Explore the Lake District
Morning: Take a boat tour of Lake Nahuel Huapi, visiting Victoria Island and Arrayanes Forest with its unique white-barked trees.
Afternoon: Visit the Llao Llao Hotel and surrounding nature reserves or take a scenic drive along the Circuito Chico, a popular road with panoramic views.
Evening: Enjoy a meal at a lakeside restaurant, trying Patagonian lamb or trout.
Day 12: Fly to El Calafate (Southern Patagonia)
Morning: Fly from Bariloche to El Calafate, the gateway to Los Glaciares National Park (about 1.5 hours).
Afternoon: Explore the town of El Calafate, known for its charming streets and Lake Argentino views.
Evening: Have dinner at a local restaurant with Patagonian specialties, such as spit-roasted lamb or king crab.
Day 13: Visit Perito Moreno Glacier
Morning: Take a day trip to the Perito Moreno Glacier, one of the most spectacular glaciers in the world. Walk along the viewing platforms and take a boat ride to get closer to the glacier.
Afternoon: If you’re feeling adventurous, consider a mini-trekking tour on the glacier or a boat ride to get even closer to the ice.
Evening: Return to El Calafate for a relaxing evening.
Day 14: Fly to Ushuaia (End of the World)
Morning: Fly from El Calafate to Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world (approximately 1-hour flight).
Afternoon: Explore Ushuaia, starting with the Museo del Fin del Mundo (Museum at the End of the World), and stroll along the Avenida San Martín for shopping and local souvenirs.
Evening: Take a boat trip on Beagle Channel to see sea lions, penguins, and stunning landscapes.
Evening: Celebrate your final night with a delicious dinner in a local restaurant with views of the surrounding mountains and sea.
Additional Tips
Weather: Be prepared for a variety of weather conditions. The north can be hot, especially around Iguazú and Mendoza, while Patagonia is cooler, even in summer, and weather can change quickly.
Distances: Argentina is a large country, so flights between regions are recommended, especially to minimize travel time.
Currency: Argentina’s currency is the Argentine Peso (ARS). Ensure you have cash for smaller towns or excursions.
This itinerary offers a comprehensive tour of Argentina, showcasing its unique blend of cultures, landscapes, and world-class natural wonders. From the deserts and vineyards in the north to the glaciers and fjords of the south, you’ll experience the full diversity and beauty of this amazing country.
