Argentina Tour Packages from India: Patagonia and More

Argentina is two trips in one. In the north, Buenos Aires gives you tango, steak and wide European-style boulevards. In the south, Patagonia gives you glaciers, windswept steppe and some of the best trekking in South America. For many travellers from India it is also the starting point for Antarctica, because the expedition ships sail from Ushuaia, at the southern tip of the country.

This guide covers where to go, when, the visa position for Indian passport holders, a sample route and how to put an Argentina trip together.

Argentina at a glance

• Best for: glaciers, trekking, city culture and as the gateway to Antarctica
• Patagonia season: roughly November to March
• Typical length: 10 to 14 days for Buenos Aires plus Patagonia
• Getting there: at least one connection from India
• Visa: see the section below, and check before you book

Where to go in Argentina

Buenos Aires

The capital is where most trips start and end. Give it two or three days. Walk through San Telmo and Recoleta, see the coloured houses of La Boca, and book an evening of tango. It is also where many international flights land.

El Calafate and the Perito Moreno Glacier

El Calafate is the base for the Perito Moreno Glacier in Los Glaciares National Park. Walkways give you views of the glacier face, and boat trips and guided walks on the ice are available. Two days is usually enough.

El Chaltén

A small town at the foot of Mount Fitz Roy, and the main base for hikers in Argentine Patagonia. Many of the best trails start right from the town, so you can do day hikes without a long approach.

Ushuaia

The southernmost city in the world, on the Beagle Channel. Boat trips on the channel and walks in Tierra del Fuego National Park are the usual activities. It is also the port from which Antarctic expedition ships sail.

Iguazú Falls and Mendoza

If you have extra days, Iguazú Falls in the north is a short flight from Buenos Aires, and Mendoza is the centre of Argentina’s wine country, below the Andes.

A sample 12-day route

This is an example, not a fixed departure. We adjust every route to your dates and pace.

• Days 1 to 3: Buenos Aires
• Days 4 to 6: El Calafate and the Perito Moreno Glacier
• Days 7 and 8: El Chaltén and hiking
• Days 9 to 11: Ushuaia, the Beagle Channel and Tierra del Fuego
• Day 12: fly back via Buenos Aires

Argentina and Antarctica

If Antarctica is the reason you are looking at Argentina, you will pass through Buenos Aires and fly on to Ushuaia. Many travellers add a few days of Patagonia before or after the ship. Read our guide to the cost of Antarctica from India, then see our Antarctica trips.

Do Indians need a visa for Argentina?

Indian citizens who hold a valid US visa can currently enter Argentina for tourism without a separate Argentine visa, for up to 90 days. Otherwise a consular visa is needed, and it is free for Indian citizens. The rules and the list of accepted US visas have changed more than once, so check with the Argentine embassy in New Delhi before you book flights.

Getting there from India

There is usually at least one connection, often via the Gulf, Europe or Africa. Plan for more than a day of travel to reach Buenos Aires, and a further flight to reach Ushuaia or El Calafate.

When to go

Patagonia is best in the southern summer, roughly November to March, when trails are open and days are long. Buenos Aires is pleasant in spring and autumn. Check the season for the specific trip you plan, because Patagonian weather changes fast.

What to pack for Patagonia

• Layers you can add and remove, including a warm mid-layer
• A windproof and waterproof jacket, because the wind is strong
• Sturdy, broken-in walking shoes
• Sun protection, since the light can be harsh even when it is cold

Common questions

Can I combine Argentina with Chile?

Yes. Patagonia spans both countries, and many trips cross the border to see Torres del Paine. See our guide to Chile tour packages from India.

How early should I plan?

Antarctic cabins often fill well in advance, so book that part first and plan the Patagonia days around it.

Plan your Argentina trip

We do not have fixed Argentina departures listed yet. We design journeys to order, around your dates and how you like to travel. Browse our Argentina page or use the Plan Your Trip form.