Buenos Aires

Argentina

South America

Destinations

Patagonia

Located on the south-east coast of the country, Argentina's capital is now home to around 3 million people. It is one of the most visited cities in Latin America. Buenos Aires has a thriving arts scene, interesting history and amazing architecture drawing tourists eager to experience the 'Paris of the South.'

Buenos Aires was originally founded in 1536 and was named Nuestra Señora Santa María del Buen Aire, or Our Lady St. Mary of the Good Air. Located on the south-east coast of the country, Argentina's capital is now home to around 3 million people. It is one of the most visited cities in Latin America. The city has a thriving arts scene, interesting history and amazing architecture drawing tourists eager to experience the 'Paris of the South.'
<h2>1. Dance the Tango</h2>
The tango is synonymous with Buenos Aires, and visitors have many opportunities to experience this passionate dance. Visitors looking for an authentic experience may wish to visit a milonga, where locals go dancing. They happen around the city every day of the week. The most interesting experience may be an open-air milonga where visitors can watch tango enthusiasts dancing in the street.

[caption id="attachment_1031289" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1031289" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/GettyImages-154956340-1-1024x695.jpg" alt="Attractive couple dancing tango in the old street" width="1024" height="695" /> 101dalmatians / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>2. Visit the Plaza de Mayo</h2>
The Plaza de Mayo is at the center of much of Argentina's political history. On the eastern side of the Plaza is the Casa Rosada, which houses the offices of the president. Eva Perón addressed crowds of supporters from the balconies of this building. In the center of the Plaza is the Pirámide de Mayo, a white obelisk built to mark the first anniversary of independence from Spain.

[caption id="attachment_1031290" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1031290" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/GettyImages-169968878-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="View of the Casa Rosada, where the executive government is located in Buenos Aires, Argentina" width="1024" height="683" /> FotografiaBasica / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>3. See the Horses</h2>
Argentina is known for its horses, and Buenos Aires offers tourists many opportunities to appreciate the four-legged beauties. On race days the Palermo Hippodrome is the place to see the best horses up against each other, have a small bet, and see the French architecture on the grounds. For those who prefer polo, Argentina hosts some of the best competitions in the world. Check out the excitement at Campo Argentino de Polo between September and November.

[caption id="attachment_1031291" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1031291" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/GettyImages-636150868-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="Horses breeding in Argentinean Patagonia. Neuquen, Argentina." width="1024" height="683" /> Edsel Querini / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>4. Visit a Street Market or Two</h2>
Known locally as ferias, street markets can be found throughout Buenos Aires. Most tourists visit Feria de San Telmo, which is a good place to pick up souvenirs and is also known for the amazing antiques on offer. Other great options include Feria de Libros Parque Rivadavia, which has piles of books for book lovers and Feria de Mataderos, known for amazing food and live equestrian and dance performances. Visitors looking for a special keepsake may wish to visit Feria Plaza Francia, which is known for handmade leather goods, ceramics and silver jewelry.

<img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-1031292" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/shutterstock_412855054-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="Colorful area in La Boca neighborhoods on February 24, 2016 in Buenos Aires. Street is a major tourist attraction &amp; the area is filled with colorfully painted buildings" width="1024" height="683" />


<h2>5. Catch a Soccer Game</h2>
Legendary soccer player Diego Maradona first played for the Boca Juniors as a young man, and he returned to the club at the end of his career. The Boca Juniors are the most successful team in Argentina and are known for their large and passionate fan base. Visitors can take in a game at their iconic home ground, the Bombonera stadium.

<img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-1031296" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/shutterstock_1429761005-1-1024x695.jpg" alt="Restaurant next to the famous Boca Juniors soccer stadium, La Boca, Buenos Aires, Argentina" width="1024" height="695" />


<h2>6. Be a Gaucho for a Day</h2>
For those who want to get out of the city and spend the day as a gaucho, many local ranches offer day-long experiences with transport from the city included. These trips generally involve a meal with plenty of grilled meat. You'll dance, sing, and watch demonstrations on horseback by expert riders. Truly adventurous tourists can hop in the saddle and enjoy a ride on one of Argentina's famed horses.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1031298" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/shutterstock_281532473.jpg" alt="Gaucho against the backdrop of the famous mount Fitz Roy , Los Glaciares National Park, Patagonia, Argentina" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>7. Taste the Cuisine</h2>
Argentina's beef industry has certainly made an impression on Buenos Aires. The adventurous foodie can find many great restaurants with perfectly cooked steaks and glasses of local wine.  Remember to also try the empanadas, which are everywhere and make a great snack while exploring the city.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1031300" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/shutterstock_501209116.jpg" alt="Argentina street food, traditional choripan sandwich with chorizo sausage, tomato, goat cheese, and chimichurri sauce at a street food market" width="1000" height="662" />


<h2>8. Experience the History</h2>
Exploring Buenos Aires' past can lead you to some amazing places while you hear fascinating stories. A popular stop with history buffs is Recoleta Cemetery, where many make a pilgrimage to Evita's tomb. The cemetery is also home to ornate mausoleums where the rich and powerful of the city rest. El Zanjón de Granados is a maze of tunnels underneath a San Telmo house; some historians believe it is the first settlement of Buenos Aires. Those who like good food with their history can visit Café Tortoni, which has been serving locals and tourists alike since 1858 and is known for its Tiffany glass ceilings.

[caption id="attachment_1031302" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1031302" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/eduardo-sanchez-qhcLc3k-fCI-unsplash-1-1024x768.jpg" alt="La Boca, Buenos Aires, Argentina" width="1024" height="768" /> Photo by Eduardo Sánchez on Unsplash[/caption]


<h2>9. Visit an Art Museum</h2>
Buenos Aires offers art lovers many opportunities to delve into artistic beauty. El Caminito, in the La Boca neighborhood, is an alleyway full of colorful buildings and the creations of local artists. MALBA, or the Museum of Latin American Art, has a collection of the political and social art of South America, as well as historical and contemporary pieces by Latin America artists, including Frida Kahlo. In the Museum of Fine Arts, visitors can find tapestries, carvings, and paintings by greats such as Van Gogh and Picasso, as well as pieces by lesser-known South American artists.

[caption id="attachment_1031304" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1031304" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/GettyImages-172886531-1-1024x666.jpg" alt="&quot;colorful facada in caminito, la boca - buenos aires, argentina&quot;" width="1024" height="666" /> THEPALMER / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>10. Bask in Nature</h2>
Visitors who are looking for a day surrounded by nature without going too far from the city can explore the Buenos Aires Ecological Reserve. Boasting 360 hectares of green space, this reserve is located on the edge of Puerto Madero. Other pockets of nature include the botanical gardens and Parque Tres de Febrero, which offers visitors lakes, groves and rose gardens.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1031305" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/shutterstock_589152566.jpg" alt="Sunset landscape view of a lonely tree at the sea coast. Ecological reserve Costanera Sur, Puerto Madero, Buenos Aires, Argentina" width="1000" height="668" />

Top Things to do in Buenos Aires

Argentina is the second-largest country in South America, surrounded by Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Paraguay, and Uruguay. Throughout its turbulent history, the country has managed to build a collective identity and fierce national pride. It is known for its world-class beef, football, dancing, and varied natural beauty.

Argentina is the second-largest country in South America, surrounded by Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Paraguay, and Uruguay. The lightly populated country's human history goes back some 13,000 years. Indigenous peoples thrived until the early 16th century, when the Spanish arrived via Rio de la Plata to explore and conquer. It would take numerous military campaigns, but in 1825, Argentina became an independent nation.

Throughout its turbulent history, the country has managed to build a collective identity that incorporated its mixed heritage and gave way to a fierce national pride. Today, Argentina is known for a variety of industries and for the varied communities that had a hand in its growth and development. Apart from being known for its world-class beef, football, and dancing, the country chooses to preserve its natural beauty as a matter of safeguarding its future.
<h2>1. Ruinas de San Ignacio Miní</h2>
San Ignacio Miní began as a Jesuit mission in 1610 but moved to its current location in 1696. By the next century, it had become a commercial trade hub specializing in crafts made by the indigenous population. Luso-Brazilian forces destroyed the mission after the Jesuit priests were driven out. This monument is a well-preserved example of what some call Guaraní baroque architecture.

<img class="alignnone wp-image-23506 size-full" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_1379617124.jpg" alt="Ruinas de San Ignacio Miní Argentina" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>2. Costanera Sur</h2>
Also known as Buenos Aires Ecological Reserve, Costanera Sur started out as a resort in the 1920s. It declined thirty years later, and when efforts to revive it were abandoned, nature reclaimed the land. The growth of plants attracted more animals, and the expanding natural landscape attracted animal lovers. In June 1986, it was designated a protected area; it is full of trails for hiking and cycling as well as picnic areas on the water banks.

<img class="alignnone wp-image-23507 size-full" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_1490255999.jpg" alt="Costanera Sur Ecological Reserve Argentina" width="1000" height="668" />


<h2>3. Cerro de Los Siete Colores</h2>
Located in the small town of Purmamarca, the Hill of Seven Colors is a stunning natural combination that's like the rings on a tree, each color representing a layer of rock that dates back one to 400 million years. From sandstones with sulfur to lead and calcium carbonate, the colors are said to be most breathtaking just as dawn is breaking.

<img class="alignnone wp-image-23508 size-full" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_453495295.jpg" alt="Purmamarca Cerro de Los Siete Colores Argentina" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>4. Iguazú Falls</h2>
No trip to Argentina would be complete without visiting the Las Cataratas del Iguazú or Iguazú Falls. This natural waterfall system that straddles Brazil and Argentina is almost two miles wide and has drop heights between 197 and 269 feet. One of the stars of the Iguazú is Devil’s Throat Canyon, which takes about half of the Iguazú River’s flows. Visitors can access this powerful landmark via the national park that is home to some rare and threatened species.

<img class="alignnone wp-image-23509 size-full" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_535136962.jpg" alt="Las Cataratas del Iguazú Iguazú Falls Argentina" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>5. Plaza de Mayo</h2>
When it comes to country capitals, seasoned travelers recommend skipping some, but this is one case where you’d be missing out on a major piece of Argentina’s story. From founding to revolution to independence, Plaza de Mayo in Buenos Aires is home to several important buildings, including the Metropolitan Cathedral, where the current Pope Francis held masses when he was an Archbishop. The most recognizable sight in the plaza is Casa Rosada, the seat of the government that garnered major recognition in the 1940s thanks to first lady Eva “Evita” Perón.

<img class="alignnone wp-image-23510 size-full" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_581189278.jpg" alt="Plaza de Mayo Buenos Aires" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>6. Los Glaciares National Park</h2>
Patagonia, located in the Santa Cruz Province, makes up the southern tip of South America shared by Chile and Argentina and is home to Los Glaciares National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is divided into Lake Argentino, which has three major glaciers flowing into it, and Lake Viedma, home to glaciers that are popular with climbers. Perito Moreno Glacier is one of the popular tourist destinations because it is large and easily accessible.

[caption id="attachment_23511" align="alignnone" width="1000"]<img class="wp-image-23511 size-full" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/GettyImages-919960540-2.jpg" alt="Los Glaciares National Park Argentina" width="1000" height="666" /> guenterguni / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>7. Palacio Barolo</h2>
People go on vacation to get away from work, but this is one 100-year-old business building you'll want to visit. The eclectic design of Palácio Barolo in Monserrat, Buenos Aires was inspired by Dante’s Divine Comedy. The 22 floors of this 330-foot building fall into three se<img class="alignnone wp-image-23512 size-full" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_444490156.jpg" alt="Palacio Barolo Buenos Aires" width="1000" height="667" />ctions: hell, purgatory, and heaven, and its base conforms to the Golden Ratio to create harmony between height and width.


<h2>8. La Boca</h2>
This town briefly seceded from Argentina in the early 1880s. As the inhabitants were of Genoese origin, they raised the flag of Genoa, which was physically torn down by then-President Julio Roca. These days, La Boca is an emblem of Argentina’s multicultural roots, with the brightly colored houses of the Caminito and its artsy vibe.

<img class="alignnone wp-image-23513 size-full" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_690175807.jpg" alt="La Boca Argentina" width="1000" height="662" />


<h2>9. Iberá Wetlands</h2>
Located in Corrientes province, the Iberá wetlands comprise 30 percent of the country’s biodiversity, boasting about 4,000 plant and wildlife inhabitants, including capybaras and anteaters. It’s not a typical tourist location that you would find on a visitor’s map, but agritourism has helped local Guaraní and traditional gaucho people appreciate the growth that can come from tourist attention. Visitors can explore the area by boat, kayak, and horseback.

[caption id="attachment_23514" align="alignnone" width="1000"]<img class="wp-image-23514 size-full" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/GettyImages-1175806493-1.jpg" alt="Iberá wetlands Corrientes Argentina" width="1000" height="666" /> Daniel Falcão / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>10. Cueva de Los Manos</h2>
In the Patagonia region is the Cueva de Los Manos, named for the handprint silhouettes that date back to approximately 7,300 B.C. Apart from stenciled left hands, the site features animal art and geometric pattern drawings depicting the natural world. Scientists discerned that the artists used iron and manganese oxides and other minerals to produce their colors. South America has a few caves with similar paintings, but Cueva de Los Manos is the most recognizable.

<img class="alignnone wp-image-23515 size-full" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_12537205.jpg" alt="Cueva de Los Manos cave paintings argentina" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>11. Los Alerces National Park</h2>
Los Alerces National Park is in the Chile-bordering province of Chubut. The park was molded by multiple ice sheets to create spectacular clear-water lakes and dense forests. Alerces are cypresses, so they grow very slowly and can be thousands of years old. The park covers approximately 1,000 square miles of land. Visitors can hike, explore by boat, and even go fishing.

<img class="alignnone wp-image-23516 size-full" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_781286746.jpg" alt="Los Alerces National Park Argentina" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>12. Teatro Colon</h2>
Teatro Colón is the second version of Buenos Aires' main opera house. The first theater opened in 1857 in La Plaza de Mayo and closed for rebuilding in 1888. The new house opened in 1908 and survived the anarchist bombing in 1910, when a French dignitary was taking in a performance. The Colón has exceptional acoustics and lighting, and in 1966, the inside of the cupola was adorned with allegorical frescoes painted by Argentine artist Raúl Soldi.

<img class="alignnone wp-image-23517 size-full" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_202540300.jpg" alt="Teatro Colón Argentina theatre" width="1000" height="665" />


<h2>13. La Recoleta Cemetery</h2>
While it may be counterintuitive to visit the dead, when it comes to La Recoleta cemetery in Buenos Aires, it's an exception worth making. Rated one of the world's most beautiful cemeteries, La Recoleta was built in 1732 by the Order of Recoletos, and after they disbanded, the cemetery was expanded. The current site contains over 4,600 vaults, including the Duarte mausoleum holding the remains of Eva Perón. Throughout 14 acres, visitors will experience a wide variety of architectural styles, including Baroque and Neo-Gothic, lending the graveyard an otherworldly beauty.

<img class="alignnone wp-image-23518 size-full" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_670593703.jpg" alt="La Recoleta Cemetery buenos aires argentina" width="1000" height="666" />

Experience the Historic Beauty of Argentina

The southern end of South America is a sparsely populated region of lush grasslands that stretch into towering mountain ranges and vast deserts. This region, Patagonia, feels like a step away from the modern world. Patagonia is a region that every person should experience because there truly is nothing like it.

The southern end of South America is a sparsely populated region of lush grasslands that stretch into towering mountain ranges and vast deserts. This region, Patagonia, feels like a step away from the modern world. Though there are several key cities in the area, they pale in size next to the seemingly limitless landscapes. There is no doubt that Patagonia is a region that every person should experience at least once in their life because there truly is nothing like it.
<h2>1. Reserva Faunística Península Valdés</h2>
One of the most famous places in all of South America is the Unesco World Heritage site, Península Valdés. This wildlife reserve is the home of hundreds of elephant seals, sea lions, and Magellanic penguins. Fans of land animals will love the adorable llama-like guanacos and the ostrich-like rheas. The entire reserve stretches over 2000 miles and has well over 250 miles of coastline. Though viewing all of the animals is a treat, the most exceptional sight is probably the endangered southern right whale. Conservationists estimate that there are only 10,000 of these beautiful creatures left, so helping them survive is a key priority. Thankfully, many of the coasts become breeding zones for the whales between June and December, making it the perfect time to observe them.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1031486" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/shutterstock_61331278.jpg" alt=" Magellanic Penguins at Peninsula Valdes, Patagonia, Argentina" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>2. Parque Nacional Los Glaciares</h2>
There are very few people in the world that get to experience certain aspects of the planet. Patagonia's Parque Nacional Los Glaciares offers one of these experiences. A hike through the beautiful area will allow you to visit the key point of its southern sector: Glaciar Perito Moreno. The vast ice field covers 97 square miles, is almost 600 feet deep, and is the world's third largest reserve of fresh water. Some companies even offer trekking tours that allow you to travel across the expanse of ice. Even if you choose not to hike along the glacier, the mere sight of it manages to be thrilling.

[caption id="attachment_1031490" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1031490" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/GettyImages-1147537520-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="A view of Mount Fitz Roy reflected in a mirror calm Laguna Capri in Los Glaciares National Park above El Chalten" width="1024" height="683" /> Andrew Peacock / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>3. Área Natural Protegida Punta Tombo</h2>
If you didn't get enough of the penguins at the Península Valdés, you should stop by continental South America's largest penguin nesting ground, Área Natural Protegida Punta Tombo. The region is home to a colony of over half a million Magellanic penguins. It also constantly attracts various seabirds from the surrounding areas, including cormorants, steamer ducks, and black oystercatchers. Because of the sensitive nature of the animals, park rangers do accompany visitors on their journey through the area. With the day-long tours, you can take a day to relax and enjoy the sight of the adorable birds as they waddle, swim, and feed.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1031491" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/shutterstock_657746272.jpg" alt="Penguins and their nests in the ground, Punta Tombo, Argentina, South America" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>4. Glaciarium</h2>
After a day out in the vast world of Patagonia, you may need a way to slowly unwind. Or you may have just encountered the impressive Glaciar Perito Moreno and wondered how such a colossal structure could form. Either way, you might choose to stop by the Glaciarium in El Calafate. This gorgeous museum contains many displays and films about the formation of glaciers and the various expeditions that have occurred across them. Adults can choose to relax in the various lounges and enjoy vodka, fernet, or cola in actual ice glasses.

[caption id="attachment_1031493" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1031493" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/GettyImages-1124604476-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="Perito Moreno Glacier and red wildflowers, Lake Argentino – El Calafate, Patagonia Argentina" width="1024" height="683" /> agustavop / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>5. El Chaltén</h2>
Patagonia has captured hearts with its verdant forests, shimmering glaciers, and majestic animals, but the question remains. What is the best way to take it all in? Many visitors travel to Patagonia in the hope of seeing things they've never seen before, and the fledgling city of El Chaltén is a perfect place to start. There are dozens of trekking trails of varying lengths and difficulty that allow everyone from casual hikers to the most intrepid adventurers to enjoy themselves. The trail to Laguna Capri is an easy path that allows you to observe the mountains in their full glory without testing your fortitude. Alternatively, the Huemul Circuit allows experienced trekkers to travel across hills, through a thick swamp, and into the extraordinary, icy expanse of Hielos Sur.

[caption id="attachment_1031494" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1031494" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/GettyImages-157476535-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="A beautiful nature scene characteristic of the Andes. Driftwood in the foreground, autumn colors, a pond, the sky and clouds, the mountains, and a glacier." width="1024" height="683" /> gcoles / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>6. Parque Nacional Torres del Paine</h2>
There are several national parks in Patagonia that hold worldwide acclaim, but Torres del Paine is something special. Of course, its magnificent rock formations and crystal-clear lakes are a huge draw, but it also has three trails that wind through the 700-mile park. The most popular trail, the W-Trek, takes five days to travel and stretches almost 35 miles. Trekkers will be able to come across many of the park's most incredible features, including the towering rock pillars that give the park its name.

[caption id="attachment_1031495" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1031495" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/GettyImages-177490112-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="An early morning sunrise landscape photograph of the Cuernos del Paine, or &quot;Horns of Paine&quot;, a world-famous mountain range in Patagonia and the Andes." width="1024" height="683" /> gcoles / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>7. Cueva de las Manos</h2>
Dating back to about 7370 BCE, Cueva de las Manos has some of the most incredible rock art on the planet, namely because it is one of the earliest examples of art that we have. Cueva de las Manos translates to “Cave of Hands,” and it's clear where it got its name. The ancient walls of the cave have polychrome rock paintings covering most of their surfaces. Along with imprints of human hands, there are drawings of guanacos and abstract designs. There are around 800 images, and more than 90% are imprints of left hands. Interestingly, one has six fingers. Rangers are currently considering opening hiking trails through the area.

[caption id="attachment_1031497" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1031497" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/GettyImages-117842623-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="Ancient Hands Paintings in Patagonia" width="1024" height="683" /> edurivero / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>8. Estancias</h2>
Some of the more remote areas of Patagonia have estancias scattered throughout them. Estancias are large plots of land that many locals use for cattle-raising and farming. Some of these estancias have opened their doors to visitors, allowing them to experience rustic life in Patagonia. Traditional barbecues, wine, and horse riding are almost always available. The Estancia Monte Dinero also has a cozy cafe-bar at the foot a lighthouse and offers a sweeping view of the ocean and the surrounding landscape. It's also incredibly close to a colossal Magellanic penguin colony.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1031498" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/shutterstock_203510194.jpg" alt=" Old cart left on deserted road in Patagonia, vintage retro effect" width="1000" height="688" />


<h2>9. Camarones</h2>
Patagonia is a fantastic destination for people who want to escape from the world for a period of time. Of all its cities and villages, few are as cozy and away from it all as Camarones. Many of its beaches remain empty, even during popular tourism months, allowing a peaceful stroll with an ocean breeze. The local townsfolk are sociable and are often willing to share their experiences and recommendations on the area, particularly about scenic outings and the best places to stay. It is also the closest village to the Cabo Dos Bahías nature reserve, which hosts tens of thousands of penguins and their chicks. Like the village, the reserve is less popular among visitors, so it allows a more personal view of the adorable birds.

[caption id="attachment_1031499" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1031499" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/GettyImages-518551061-1-1024x682.jpg" alt="Punta Camarones, Chubut, Patagonia, Argentina" width="1024" height="682" /> xeni4ka / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>10. Enjoy Some Watersports</h2>
Just because much of the region is relaxing and calm, doesn't mean there aren't thrills to be had. Areas like Madryn and Península Valdés are diving capitals of Argentina and Patagonia. Some companies will even offer exclusive night dives or adventures across several days. If diving isn't your idea of fun, there are also windsurfing or kayaking options in many of the area's cities and villages. Some towns even allow visitors to organize rafting trips through the many pristine rivers and lakes.

[caption id="attachment_1031500" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1031500" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/GettyImages-536558555-1-1024x680.jpg" alt="beach in puerto madryn argentina patagonia with a house" width="1024" height="680" /> Ignacio Leonardi / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>11. Punta Norte</h2>
Perhaps you really enjoyed visiting the sea lions and elephant seals. Maybe you loved watching the southern right whales during the breeding season and are looking for a similar experience. Punta Norte is a solitary area on the far end of Península Valdés. Because of its location, visitors tend to skip over the area, despite what it has to offer. From February through April, you can watch orcas come to the area to hunt. Though it's rare for visitors to see a full out attack or hunt, it's common to see dorsal fins slicing through the water as the whales search for food. Orcas are also more likely to breach than other types of whales. If you're lucky, you might get to see one of the giant creatures leaping out of the ocean.

<img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-1031502" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/shutterstock_1012647895-1-1024x680.jpg" alt="Orca hunting, Patagonia Argentin" width="1024" height="680" />


<h2>12. The End of the World</h2>
Patagonia holds a historical nickname as “The End of the World.” Between its incredible wildlife, crisp air, and limitless landscapes, it's easy to see where the name originates. One of the region's most popular tours references this as the “Journey to the End of the World,” and it is one of the best ways to experience all that Patagonia has to offer.

<strong><strong> </strong></strong>In addition to visiting the various sea-life and birds of the region, it also stops at a Welsh tea house and an authentic chacra. From there, a boat will take you through the Beagle Channel as you see one of the first settlements of Tierra del Fuego. You will then visit the Perito Moreno Glacier, ride horses through the landscape, and take a trek across Torres del Paine. The end of the tour is a relaxing stay in a traditional wood cabin with meals and a log fire.

[caption id="attachment_1031503" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1031503" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/GettyImages-642262890-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="King Cormorant Bird Colony on Small Rock Islandi n Patagonia" width="1024" height="683" /> Marco_Piunti / Getty Images[/caption]

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