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10+ Spots in Argentina That Will Top Your South American Bucket List

Argentina Insider Guides
by Claudia Tavani Nov 21, 2016

Nature is at its best in Argentina. From the glaciers of Patagonia to the fauna of Punta Tombo, from the mighty Iguazu Waterfalls to the peaks of the Andes, this country offers infinite possibilities for adventure. Here are some of the best natural sites of Argentina.

1. Garganta del Diablo

 Garganta del DiabloPuerto Iguazú, ArgentinaThe mighty Cataratas de Iguazu are one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the world. Easily accessed from Puerto Iguazu by bus, the National Park requires a full day of exploration during which it’s possible to see the waterfalls from many different perspectives, including from below through a zodiac ride.

2. Playa El Doradillo

 Playa El DoradilloViedma, ArgentinaA boat ride around Puerto Madryn is the best way to discover the local fauna. Depending on the season, orcas, whales, sea lions and dolphins can be spotted. The best way to spot dolphins is to follow the seagulls, as they like to feed in the same place. A gorgeous show of nature.

3. Peninsula Valdes

 Peninsula ValdesPuerto Madryn, ArgentinaAt about one hour drive from Puerto Madryn, Peninsula Valdes is one of the most amazing natural sites of Argentina. The landscape – vaste planes swept by the strong Patagonia winds – reminiscences the desert. The ocean is of incredible shades of blue. And as if this was not enough, it’s one of the best places to observe wildlife. Depending on the season, orcas, whales, sea lions, seals and penguins can be seen. Not to mention, the vigoñas and the foxes!

4. Perito Moreno Glacier

 Perito Moreno GlacierLago Argentino, ArgentinaBrace yourself, because Perito Moreno Glacier is a real show of nature. Visiting is a full sensory experience: not only the view is stunning, but the scent of the forest around it is fragrant and the sound of the glacier breaking unique. It’s possible to get closer to the glacier by boat, and even to go on a challenging and very cold hike.

5. Cerro de los Siete Colores

 Cerro de los Siete ColoresPurmamarca, ArgentinaOne of the most famous places to visit in northern Argentina is the Quebrada de Humahuaca. Here, close to the lovely village of Purmamarca, it’s possible to admire the beautiful Cerro de los Setes Colores, whose name is due to the different colors of the hill. It’s so beautiful that one may think it’s actually a painting.

6. Quebrada de Humahuaca

 Quebrada de HumahuacaSalta, ArgentinaA road trip along the Quebrada de Humahuaca, in the north west of Argentina, is an excellent way to admire the breathtaking landscape. Colorful mountains, sky as blue as it could be, llamas roaming freely and virtually nobody around. At every turn, a photo opportunity comes up!

7. Estancia Cristina, Santa Cruz

 Estancia Cristina, Santa CruzEl Calafate, ArgentinaEstancia Cristina can be reached from El Calafate via a journey by bus and boat across Lake Argentino. From there, several trails begin – the most spectacular and challenging one goes along the hills that are swept by the strong Patagonia winds and that offer views over beautiful peaks and, at its peak, of Glacier Uppsala.

8. Salinas Grandes

 Salinas GrandesHumahuaca, ArgentinaA smaller version of the Bolivian Salares de Uyuni, Salinas Grandes are a nice detour from the rest of the Quebrada de Humahuaca. If visiting right after it rained, the reflection of the sky, clouds and surroundings in the water will offer many good photo opportunities.

9. Punta Tombo

 Punta TomboPuerto Madryn, ArgentinaA huge colony of penguins lives in Punta Tombo, which is easily accessed from Puerto Madryn. There’s so many of them that humans do feel like a minority! This is one of the best places to spot wildlife in Argentina.

10. Lago Argentino

 Lago ArgentinoEl Calafate, ArgentinaA visit to Argentina isn’t complete without exploring Patagonia. The winds sweep this incredibly beautiful land of large pastures, breathtaking views and unique wildlife. It’s one of the best places in the world to go hiking, which makes it all the more interesting.

For more things to do in Argentina, check out the author’s blog post.

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