Gap Year in Argentina

From the steppes of Patagonia to the tango halls of Buenos Aires, Argentina is a big hit with backpackers. In fact the gappers we think may have a hard time falling in love with Argentina are vegetarians; in this country, the steak rules.

Best Argentina Gap Year Programs

Practical Information

Visas:
American, Canadian, most Western Europeans, Australian and New Zealand nationals do not need visas to visit Argentina. If you enter the country from a major border crossing (like an airport) you’ll have get a free 90-day tourist card (issued by immigration officials).

Safety:
Argentina is one of the safest cities in Latin America, but it pays to be cautious. Don’t wander round on your own after dark, don’t flash expensive iPods or your money belt – just be sensible, especially in urban areas. Pickpockets are common, especially in bus and train stations, so keep a tight hold of your bag. And be aware that Argentinean drivers are nutters with no regard for pedestrians; look twice before crossing the road!

Vaccinations and Health:
Tetanus, hepatitis A and yellow fever vaccines are usually recommended for a trip to Argentina; make an appointment with your doctor before you go. If you are travelling to rural areas, there’s a risk of malaria (you’ll be able to get Chloroquine or similar from your doctor) so be sure to sleep under a mosquito net and avoid tight-fitting clothing.

Voltage and Plug Info:
220 V. European plug with two round round pins.

Getting There and Away
There are loads of flight routes direct to Argentina from the USA, Canada, the UK, France , Spain, Australia and New Zealand… the list goes on! Air travel is not the only (or best) way to explore the surrounding continent; there are a multitude of bus, train and ferry crossings to be made if the fancy takes you.

Getting Around
Argentina is a big country, so the quickest way to travel around is by domestic flight (there are several airlines to choose from). The network of long-distance buses are modern and comfortable; don’t assume they’ll be cheaper than booking a flight though (always do your homework). Tours of Argentina are really recommend for backpackers.

Argentina Gap Year Ideas

Having the most powerful shower of your life
Millions of litres of water come crashing over the 270 falls of Iguazú every second. Walkways provide incredible views, but who wants to be a bystander when you can plunge under the powerful deluges in a speedboat?

Indulging your carnivorous cravings
Argentineans take their meat very seriously and cow is king – from the pampas (plains) to the parilla (charcoal grill) and sizzling onto your plate, steaks here are so fresh they’re practically still mooing.

Learning some fancy footwork in Buenos Aires
Head to a late-night tango bar in Corrales Viejos, where the sultry dance is thought to originate, or watch the Boca Juniors, the city’s famous footie team, show off their skills on the pitch.

Pedalling your way around Mendoza’s wineries
Cycle a wobbly path between the vines as you sip and slurp your way from one bodega to another.

Being lost for words
Tierra Del Fuego National Park is a one-stop shop for whisk-your-breath-away beauty, with its vast glaciers and huge lakes. Not to mention the odd whale breaching out at sea.

Tango Show
If you watch one show it has to be at Homero Manzi corner. it also happens to be one of the cheapest. Homero was a poet and a soldier who wrote many tango songs in the 1940s. The shows offer dancing, singing and excellent musicians. Book in advance and take a taxi.

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