Inland Argentina

Argentina is the eighth biggest country in the world, and in terms of landscapes, it is one of the most diverse places imaginable, offering vibrant jungle, wild-life packed wetlands, dramatic glaciers, mammoth mountains, sprawling pampas, dune-dotted beaches and shockingly turquoise lakes. Here, we’ve chosen the most inspiring destinations across Argentina, including the Vineyards in Mendoza, the towering waterfalls of Iguazú and the awe inspiring glaciers around El Calafate, and singled out the most appealing hotels and restaurants in each.

The tourist attractions in Inland Argentina offer something to every traveler.  Argentina is one of the very unique countries in the world that offers everything like the United States.  It’s a massive country in South America and the list of things to do in Argentina could really be endless.

Anything that you heart desires can be found in Inland Argentina, from the award winning wine to the highest mountain in the western hemisphere, salt flats, great steak, access to Antarctica, and even glaciers and animals that you can get up close and personal with.

 

 

 

The Best in Inland Argentina

The Iguazu Falls

One of the world’s largest waterfalls, consist of more than 275 cascades along a two mile stretch of the Iguazu River. Located on the Brazil/Argentina border, there are two large national parks…one on either side of the Falls. Discovered in 1541, this area was established in 1984 as a Natural World Heritage Site by UNESCO.  We stayed in the little town of Puerto Iguazu for a few days…an easy commute by local bus back and forth to the Falls.

San Ignacio de Mini

The ruins at San Ignacio de Mini date from the 16th century. Founded by San Ignatius de Loyola in 1534, this Jesuit mission was dedicated to education and the teaching of Catholicism. When they became a bit too influential in the eyes of the Spanish landowners and the Pope, they were summarily expelled from Argentina. To the right, the walls of one of the buildings remain. A museum displays the history of the Jesuits in the area and in Argentina.

Salta, jewel of the north

The Andean Northwest is considered to be the most ”traditional” part of Argentina and Salta is its hub. A city of ~500,000 people, the city maintains a colonial ambiance due to its well-preserved architecture.
Above the Cabildo was the colonial city hall and now houses the Museum of the North which was terrific.

Salta’s “teleferico” transports people 926′ upwards to the top of Cerro San Bernardo for an unsurpassed view of the city below.

Valle Calcachiques Tour
Opted for a 2-day, overnight covering a 320 mile circuit over unpaved roads into the Andean
foothills. The tour included a route through a national park, several scenic “quebradas” (gorges), stops
in small Andean towns to check out the fine weaving and crafts and finally wine tasting in the vineyards
of Cafayate.

One of the first interesting sights was a huge crowd of “peregrinos” (pilgrims) making their way
on a 5-day pilgrimage to Salta for an annual religious festival.

The Parque Nacional Los Cardones was a massive expanse of desert and cacti with a backdrop of the
Andean foothills.

Cordoba … City of Bells

A city of 1.3 million people, Cordoba is the second largest city in Argentina,
dating from the 17th century. With seven universities, it is also the educational center of the
country and maintains the best preserved colonial architecture.

Mendoza

Mendoza is known for its vineyards, wine and olives and in fact, produces 70% of the country’s wine. Spent several days exploring the local area and sampling wines at local restaurants by the “flight”. Each “flight” offered a glass of different wine with each course of the meal.

 

 

 

Top 5 Famous Inland Argentina Attractions

Bueno Aires

Commonly known as the Paris of the South, it is internationally known for its impressive boulevards, outdoor cafes, and historical facades.  Being such a diverse city this is usually the first place everyone explores for all the things to do in Argentina.  The cobblestone streets, boutiques, and shops give this city its exquisite old world European charm.

It is also famous for its art and history museums as well which have become very popular things to do in Argentina.  The party doesn’t begin until 2am and doesn’t end until sunrise.  Buenos Aires is the perfect combination for any traveler (especially for people like me: night owls).  Don’t forget to indulge in the café con leche, steak, and other meats that are readily available throughout the city.

Iguazu Falls

Taller than Niagara Falls and twice as wide these cataracts are one of the most impressive sites that you will ever see in your travels around the world.  275 waterfalls cascade through the Argentine and Brazil parks and once you see the Devil’s throat you won’t regret the trip. Though one might be tempted to take a field trip and barrel over the edge, like stateside, it’s against the law.  Devil’s Throat is equally as breathtaking when standing right on top of the falls.  Don’t forget to take the boat ride on the river and into the falls as well as the truck ride through the forest.

Mendoza

This picturesque city in the foothills of the Andes is right in the middle of Argentina’s famous wine country.  Commonly known as Argentina’s Napa and Sonoma valleys, here one can enjoy flavorful wines, fruits, and local delicacies.  Be sure to set aside time for viewing the varied countryside.

Patagonia

There are few places on the Earth that are as isolated and beautiful as Patagonia.  It is one of the best kept secrets of Argentina and the world.  Hosting the famous “southern most city in the world”, Ushuaia is the gateway to Antarctica.  One can spend countless hours hiking, driving, and site seeing without running into other annoying tourists (I think you know you what I’m talking about).  One can also enjoy the numerous lakes and meadowlands that identify this area as one of the unique ecosystems of the world.  Because of the isolation its best to plan for a picnic, be advised however, uninvited guests (penguins) may arrive and plunder your sandwiches.

Andes Mountains

The majestic mountains tower over the landscape forming the backbone of Argentina.  Glaciers defy the laws of gravity and skiing is widely available throughout many of the small rural villages found in this region.