Cosmopolitan colonial cities, mega-waterfalls with hundreds of cascades, and still-advancing icefields peaking into lurid glaciers: Argentina’s attractions are justifiably very popular with tourists. But the good news is, you don’t have to stray far from these blockbuster sights to get a very different—and crowd-free—experience.
## Buenos Aires: Delving into the Depths
Buenos Aires, a city that most travelers readily acknowledge as one of South America’s most captivating capitals, is often the initial point of arrival and the focal point for the first few days of any Argentine adventure. The allure of tango, the enticing aroma of perfectly grilled steaks, the visual feast of dazzling colonial buildings, and the vibrant pulse of its nightlife are undeniably attractive. However, some visitors have noted a slight diminishing of this initial enchantment, attributing it to the ever-increasing throngs of tourists that populate its streets. To escape the persistent crowds and rediscover the city’s hidden gems, consider exploring some of Buenos Aires’ less-known attractions, many of which are, quite literally, located underground, offering a unique perspective on this vibrant metropolis.
The Recoleta Cemetery, for instance, already renowned as one of the continent’s most exquisite cemeteries, holds within its walls a vast network of rarely explored tomb-lined passageways. These hidden corridors possess a wealth of untold stories, waiting to be discovered by those willing to venture off the beaten path. Each mausoleum, each intricate detail etched in stone, whispers tales of the past, offering a glimpse into the lives and legacies of Buenos Aires’ elite. Exploring these lesser-known sections of the Recoleta Cemetery allows for a more intimate and contemplative experience, away from the bustle of the main tourist routes.
Then there’s El Zanjón de Granados, a captivating museum nestled in the subterranean passageways beneath the San Miguel neighborhood. This historical site remained undiscovered until relatively recently, adding to its mystique and allure. It’s believed to be part of the original settlement of Buenos Aires, offering a tangible connection to the city’s earliest origins. The centuries-old tunnels were largely rediscovered and made accessible to the public in the 1980s, providing a fascinating journey through time. Exploring El Zanjón de Granados is like stepping back into the foundations of Buenos Aires, unearthing the secrets buried beneath its modern streets.
For a truly unique escape from the street-level commotion, venture into one of Buenos Aires’ infamous speakeasies. These clandestine bars, inspired by the Prohibition era in the United States, are often unmarked establishments, adding to their air of mystery and exclusivity. However, with a little research and a touch of adventurous spirit, even a first-time visitor can gain entry and enjoy a carefully crafted cocktail in a hidden setting. Perhaps the best example of this is Harrison Speakeasy. While there is a private entrance reserved for members, anyone can enjoy a meal at Nicky’s New York Sushi and simply ask their waiter to “show you the bodega” after their dinner. This simple phrase unlocks a hidden door, leading to a world of vintage cocktails and hushed conversations, a true hidden gem within the bustling city. Discovering these hidden bars is a thrilling adventure, adding a touch of intrigue and sophistication to your Buenos Aires experience.
## Iguazú: Embracing the Rapids and Conquering the Jungle on Two Wheels
The vast majority of visitors to Iguazú National Park are naturally drawn to the magnificent waterfalls, the park’s undeniable centerpiece. They typically flock to the end of the viewing platforms, vying for a glimpse of one of the largest, widest, and most awe-inspiring series of cascades in the world, and then promptly depart. This often results in crowded viewing areas and a somewhat superficial experience of this natural wonder.
However, for those who choose to linger and delve deeper into the Iguazú experience, the distant view of the falls can be transformed into an intensely personal and visceral encounter. Imagine speeding by boat directly into the heart of the most powerful cascades, the roaring water engulfing you in a refreshing spray and the swirling eddies of the plunge pools testing your nerve. Numerous boat trips offer this exhilarating journey across the rapids, providing an unforgettable perspective on the sheer power and scale of Iguazú Falls.
If you seek to escape the company of fellow tourists without necessarily getting soaked to the bone, a bike tour offers an equally compelling alternative. Puerto Iguazú is characterized by its network of almost exclusively red dirt tracks, ideal for off-road cycling adventures. Bike tours typically traverse from the city, winding through the lush jungle, ultimately leading to the waterfalls. This immersive experience is almost entirely off-road, encompassing thrilling downhill stretches and approximately 25 miles of pedaling. These cycling tours allow you to connect with the natural environment on a deeper level, escaping the crowds and discovering hidden trails along the way. You will experience the beauty of the jungle and the majesty of the falls from a unique and invigorating perspective, creating lasting memories of your Iguazú adventure.
## Mendoza: Beyond the Vineyards, Towards the Peaks
The Mendoza region boasts an impressive collection of approximately 1500 vineyards, producing world-renowned wines such as the celebrated Argentine Malbec. While there are certainly some unique wine-themed attractions to explore, such as the wine wellness retreat at Cavas Wine Lodge, where you can indulge in a facial scrub crafted from crushed grapes, it’s essential to lift your gaze from your wine glass and acknowledge the majestic Andes mountains that loom large on Mendoza’s doorstep. These towering peaks offer a plethora of outdoor activities for adventure seekers, providing a refreshing alternative to the region’s vinocentric focus.
Perhaps due to the overwhelming allure of the wine attractions, the breathtaking mountain scenery surrounding Mendoza has remained relatively unexplored by travelers. Located less than an hour’s drive southwest of Mendoza city via Hwy 7, Potrerillos sits majestically above a 7.5-mile-long lake, offering excellent opportunities for whitewater rafting on the Río Mendoza nearby. Continuing along the same highway, for approximately 1.5 hours further into the Andes, you’ll reach the settlement of Los Penitentes, the starting point for the ascent of Aconcagua, the highest mountain in the southern hemisphere. Remarkably, unlike many mountains of comparable altitude, you can ascend Aconcagua without requiring technical climbing experience, making it an accessible challenge for experienced hikers and mountaineers. Embracing the mountain scenery around Mendoza offers a truly unique and rewarding experience, contrasting with the more traditional wine-focused tourism.
## Península Valdés: Extending the Encounter for a More Intimate Experience
Nearly everyone traveling to the south of Argentina includes a visit to Península Valdés, a distinctive hammerhead-shaped peninsula located east across Golfo Nuevo from Puerto Madryn. Attracting almost 100,000 visitors annually, the peninsula offers unparalleled opportunities to witness South America’s most diverse marine life, often without even stepping off dry land. The southern right whale takes center stage alongside an array of other fascinating creatures, including Magellanic penguins, playful sea lions, and imposing elephant seals.
While the vast majority of wildlife enthusiasts opt for a day trip to the peninsula, a truly transformative experience awaits those who choose to splurge on an overnight stay at one of the peninsula’s estancias (ranches). These traditional ranches offer a unique blend of rustic charm and unparalleled access to the region’s wildlife. Some of these estancias boast grounds that extend along long stretches of shoreline, equally frequented by wildlife as the main designated viewing spots. Crucially, these areas are exclusively for the enjoyment of estancia guests. This means that you’ll often find yourself sharing the pristine beaches and stunning coastal landscapes with only a handful of other guests and an abundance of the afore-mentioned animals, free from the crowds of day-trippers. Immersing yourself in the tranquility and natural beauty of Península Valdés by staying at an estancia is an investment that will undoubtedly create lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the region’s unique ecosystem.
## Los Glaciares: Venturing Beyond the Tourist Trail for a True Glacier Adventure
Encompassing a substantial portion of the Southern Patagonian Icefield, Los Glaciares National Park, situated near El Chaltén, is understandably a highly sought-after destination. The Perito Moreno Glacier, one of the few remaining advancing glaciers in the world, attracts the most attention. Consequently, most visitors are concentrated around this specific glacier, whether gazing at it from the viewing platforms, exploring it by boat, or even walking across its icy surface. Escaping the throngs of tourists in this area can be a challenge.
However, it’s important to remember that Perito Moreno represents only a tiny fraction of the vast expanse of Los Glaciares National Park. The park encompasses thousands of miles of untamed wilderness and offers a variety of guided trekking opportunities for those seeking a more adventurous and solitary experience. One such route, gaining increasing popularity among experienced adventurers, is the Huemul Circuit. This challenging four-day hike involves crossing rivers, tackling steep mountain ascents, and camping in the wild each night. Yet, the rewards are immeasurable. The scenery is characterized by breathtaking panoramas of untouched peaks and iceberg-strewn lakes. The culmination of the trek is the awe-inspiring views of the icefield and the Viedma Glacier, four times the size of Perito Moreno. Experiencing the scale and majesty of Viedma Glacier renders its much-visited counterpart almost tame by comparison, offering a truly unforgettable and unparalleled Patagonian adventure.
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