Argentina

At a glance

• Currency — The currency is the Argentine peso (ARS), subject to high inflation and a very volatile exchange rate: prices can change quickly
• Language — The language is Spanish, in its Argentine variant (with the characteristic 'sh' sound for 'll' and 'y', and the use of 'vos' instead of 'tu')
• Visa — You need a passport valid for at least 6 months
• e-SIM — The main operators are Claro, Movistar and Personal, with good 4G/5G coverage in cities and along main roads; in the wide open spaces of Patagonia and the Andean Puna the signal disappears for long stretches

When to go to Argentina

The seasons are reversed compared with Europe and the country is enormous: from the subtropical heat of Iguazu to the polar climate of Tierra del Fuego. The best time for Patagonia (Calafate, El Chalten, Ushuaia) is the southern summer, November to March, when the trails are open; the Andean north-west (Salta, Jujuy) can be enjoyed all year but is drier and clearer in winter (June-August). Buenos Aires is pleasant in spring and autumn. Pack layers: in Patagonia the wind is fierce.