Eight Amazing Activities for a Family Vacation in Argentina
Published on: September 29th, 2017
Last updated: July 28th, 2023
Argentina’s dramatic landscape and sheer size may make it seem challenging for family travel.
A wealth of exciting activities to choose from, though, make this South American country a rewarding spot for all the family.
From wildlife adventure to foodie heaven, here's our pick of the best experiences for a family vacation in Argentina.
1) Go on a taste tour of the capital
As a prime culinary destination, it would be a shame not to sample the ice cream, dulce de leche, submarinos and many more sweet treats on offer in Argentina’s capital. We can tailor your tour to include a stop-off at a famous cafe or ice cream parlour.
And if you want to get more involved, we’ll arrange a cooking lesson, for you to make anything from the tasty empanadas to impressive seven-course meals, in a restaurant, the private home of a chef or with a culinary guide.
2) Spot whales on the Patagonian coast
Connected to the mainland by a thin strip of land, Peninsular Valdes is known as one of the world’s top whale watching destinations, but that’s not the only draw for visitors to the peninsula, as the crystal clear waters and pristine coastline are also home to sea-life such as sea lions, penguins and elephant seals.
Whale watching trips and visits to penguin colonies are on offer, although many of the sea creatures can be seen from the Peninsula’s shores.
3) Explore lakes, mountains and valleys in the Lake District
Snow-capped peaks, forested slopes and crystalline lakes and rivers, along with the region’s cool climate and fresh mountain air, make the Lake District the ideal location for kayaking and taking boat trips.
There are also many other outdoor activities on offer, best done with Bariloche or one of the more secluded villages as your base.
The best of the rest
4) Experience Iguassu Falls
On a trip to see the impressive falls, take the chance to get up close (and get drenched) with a speedboat trip to the base of the giant cascades, before exploring the maze of walkways that cut through the rainforest, connecting the many waterfalls.
5) Trek the Perito Moreno Glacier at El Calafate
See the justifiably world famous sight of Perito Moreno Glacier, as huge chunks of ice fall into the icy water. Trek across the top of glaciers, then take a boat trip on one of the nearby lakes, explore the steppe on horseback and visit a traditional Estancia to make the most of this incredibly scenic part of the world.
6) Seek out wildlife in the Misiones Rainforest
Close to Iguassu Falls, this extraordinary forest is within the Iguazu national park, boasting a vast array of mammal and bird species. All ages can enjoy exploring the jungle wilderness while spotting the resident animals and birds on guided nature walks.
7) Ride horses across the plains in the Pampas
The grassy plains of the Pampas, which stretch all the way from the Atlantic coast to the foothills of the Andes, showcase Argentina’s traditional gaucho way of life, with ranches where the whole family can learn how to horse ride gaucho style, watch polo and indulge in Argentinean asado.
8) Cycle through the foothills of Mendoza
This popular destination isn’t only known for its wine production, but also as a stellar setting for outdoor adventures, of which mountain biking is a popular choice, with year round sunshine, fresh mountain air and the exceptionally scenic mountainous backdrop.
Our top family example trips to Argentina
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