Broke Backpacking In Argentina: The Ultimate Guide

From the sweaty tango clubs of Buenos Aires to the roaring waterfalls of Iguazú and Patagonia’s rough trails, Argentina lures the poor backpacker into its untamed beauty.
Rich in history, tango rhythms so seductive they can make a cold object melt, and feasts of asados-the very portrait of Argentina is quite irresistible. But traveling through Argentina on a budget takes insider clout and resourcefulness.
Get ready to discover the budget-friendly secrets of Argentina-from cozy hostels and scrumptious street food to off-the-beaten-path destinations. Learn how to explore the country’s lively cities, breathtaking natural beauty, and local customs on a budget.
From this ultimate guide to broke backpacking in Argentina, find your way into the country’s best-kept secrets; become a part of the locals and experience raw beauty, infectious passion, and warm welcomes without having to break the bank. Get set for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure!

How to get there:

From Chile

1. Companies: Tur-Bus, Pullman Bus and Ormeño.
2. Routes: Santiago to Mendoza, Buenos Aires and Bariloche.
3. Duration: 6-24 hours.
4. Cost: $20-$100.

Border Crossings

1. Paso Internacional Los Libertadores (Santiago-Mendoza).
2. Paso Internacional Cardenal Samoré (Osorno-Bariloche).

From Bolivia

1. Companies: Ormeño, Cruz del Sur and Tur-Bus.
2. Routes: La Paz to Salta, Jujuy and Buenos Aires.
3. Duration: 12-36 hours.
4. Cost: $30-$150.

Border Crossings

1. Paso Internacional Villazón (La Quiaca-Villazón).
2. Paso Internacional Yacuiba (Tarija-Yacuiba).

From Paraguay

1. Companies: Ormeño, Cruz del Sur and Expreso Brisa.
2. Routes: Asunción to Buenos Aires, Córdoba and Rosario.
3. Duration: 12-24 hours.
4. Cost: $20-$100.

Border Crossings

1. Paso Internacional Clorinda (Asunción-Formosa).

From Brazil

1. Companies: Ormeño, Cruz del Sur and Util.
2. Routes: São Paulo to Buenos Aires, Córdoba and Mendoza.
3. Duration: 12-36 hours.
4. Cost: $30-$150.

Border Crossings

1. Paso Internacional Urugua-í (Foz do Iguaçu-Iguazú).

From Uruguay

1. Companies: Ormeño, Cruz del Sur and Tur-Bus.
2. Routes: Montevideo to Buenos Aires and Córdoba.
3. Duration: 6-12 hours.
4. Cost: $10-$50.

Border Crossings

1. Paso Internacional Fray Bentos-Gualeguaychú.

When to go:

Spring (September-November)

1. Mild temperatures (18-25°C/64-77°F).
2. Blooming wildflowers.
3. Fewer tourists.
4. Affordable accommodations.

Summer (December-February)

1. Warm weather (25-35°C/77-95°F).
2. Peak tourist season.
3. Higher prices.
4. Vibrant festivals.

Autumn (March-May)

1. Comfortable temperatures (15-25°C/59-77°F).
2. Harvest season.
3. Wine tastings.
4. Shoulder season prices.

Winter (June-August)

1. Cool temperatures (5-15°C/41-59°F).
2. Ski season.
3. Lower prices.
4. Fewer tourists.

Holidays and Events

New Year’s Eve (December 31)

1. Celebrations in Buenos Aires.
2. Higher prices.

Carnaval (February-March)

1. Vibrant parades.
2. Music festivals.

Semana Santa (March-April)

1. Easter celebrations.
2. Traditional foods.

Feria Internacional del Libro (April-May)

1. Buenos Aires Book Fair.
2. Cultural events.

Regional Variations

Patagonia:

1. Best time: Spring-Autumn.
2. Avoid winter.

Iguazú Falls:

1. Best time: Spring-Summer.

Mendoza:

1. Best time: Autumn-Winter (wine harvest).

Best Itineraries:

3-Day Itinerary

Buenos Aires Essentials

1. Day 1:

• Explore La Boca (street art, Caminito)
• Visit San Telmo (antique shops, tango)
• Relax in Plaza de Mayo (historic landmarks)

1. Day 2:

• Recoleta Cemetery (Eva Perón’s tomb)
• Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes (art museum)
• Enjoy Palermo’s parks (gardens, lakes)

1. Day 3:

• Visit Teatro Colón (opera house)
• Wander through Feria de San Telmo (antiques, street food)

1-Week Itinerary

Discovering Buenos Aires and Surroundings

1. Day 1-3: Buenos Aires

• La Boca
• San Telmo
• Plaza de Mayo
• Recoleta Cemetery
• Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes

1. Day 4: Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay (ferry)

• Explore colonial architecture
• Visit Portón de la Ciudad (historic gate)

1. Day 5: Tigre Delta (boat tour)

• See riverside mansions
• Visit Tigre Art Museum

1. Day 6-7: Córdoba

• City tour (cathedral, plaza)
• Sierras de Córdoba (hiking)

2-Week Itinerary

Exploring Argentina’s North

1. Day 1-3: Buenos Aires
2. Day 4-6: Salta

• City tour (cathedral, plaza)
• Cafayate wine region (vineyards)
• Quebrada de Humahuaca (scenic hike)

1. Day 7-9: Jujuy

• Explore Tilcara (indigenous ruins)
• Visit Purmamarca (seven-colored hill)

1. Day 10-12: Mendoza

• Wine tasting (Malbec)
• Andes mountains (hiking)
• Visit Plaza Independencia

1. Day 13-14: Return to Buenos Aires

1-Month Itinerary

Argentina’s Complete Adventure

1. Week 1: Buenos Aires, Colonia del Sacramento
2. Week 2: Salta, Cafayate, Jujuy
3. Week 3: Mendoza, Andes mountains
4. Week 4: Patagonia

• Bariloche (lake district)
• El Chaltén (hiking)
• El Calafate (glacier national park)

3-Month Itinerary

Ultimate Argentina Exploration

Month 1: Northern Argentina

1. Buenos Aires
2. Salta
3. Jujuy
4. Mendoza
5. Tucumán (historic sites)

Month 2: Patagonia

1. Bariloche
2. El Chaltén
3. El Calafate
4. Ushuaia (Tierra del Fuego)
5. Puerto Madryn (whale watching)

Month 3: Southern Argentina

1. Córdoba
2. Rosario
3. Mendoza (wine country)
4. San Juan (Andes mountains)
5. Return to Buenos Aires

Transportation:

Argentina boasts an extensive and affordable public transportation network, connecting major cities, towns and tourist destinations.

Bus Transportation

Long-Distance Buses

1. Companies: Ormeño, Cruz del Sur, Tur-Bus.
2. Routes: Inter-city and international connections.
3. Prices: $10-$100.
4. Bookings: Online or terminal counters.

Local Buses

1. Companies: Colectivos (city buses).
2. Routes: Urban areas.
3. Prices: $1-$5.
4. Payments: Cash or SUBE card.

Train Transportation

Long-Distance Trains

1. Companies: Tren Patagónico, Tren Austral.
2. Routes: Buenos Aires to Patagonia.
3. Prices: $20-$100.
4. Bookings: Online or station counters.

Local Trains

1. Companies: Subte (Buenos Aires metro).
2. Routes: Urban areas.
3. Prices: $1-$5.
4. Payments: SUBE card.

Subway (Subte)

1. Cities: Buenos Aires.
2. Lines: 6 (A-F).
3. Prices: $1-$5.
4. Payments: SUBE card.

Ferry Transportation

River Ferries

1. Routes: Buenos Aires to Uruguay.
2. Companies: Buquebus, Ferrytur.
3. Prices: $10-$50.
4. Bookings: Online or terminal counters.

Lake Ferries

1. Routes: Patagonia (Bariloche, El Chaltén).
2. Companies: Naviera Sol.
3. Prices: $10-$50.
4. Bookings: Online or pier counters.

Regional Transportation

Patagonia

1. Bus: Bariloche to El Chaltén.
2. Ferry: Bariloche to Puerto Montt.

Mendoza

1. Bus: Mendoza to Buenos Aires.
2. Train: Mendoza to San Juan.

Iguazú

1. Bus: Iguazú to Buenos Aires.
2. Ferry: Iguazú to Paraguay.

Apps and Resources

1. Omnilineas (bus bookings).
2. Subte (subway map).
3. Trenes Argentinos (train schedules).
4. Google Maps (route planning).

Top things to do:

Buenos Aires

1. Explore La Boca (street art, Caminito)
2. Visit San Telmo (antique shops, tango)
3. Relax in Plaza de Mayo (historic landmarks)
4. Recoleta Cemetery (Eva Perón’s tomb)
5. Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes (free admission)
6. Teatro Colón (guided tours)
7. Feria de San Telmo (antiques, street food)
8. Palermo’s parks (gardens, lakes)
9. Boca Juniors Stadium (football)
10. San Isidro (historic town)

Northern Argentina

1. Salta:

• City tour (cathedral, plaza)
• Cafayate wine region
• Quebrada de Humahuaca (scenic hike)

1. Jujuy:

• Tilcara (indigenous ruins)
• Purmamarca (seven-colored hill)
• Salinas Grandes (salt flats)

1. Tucumán:

• Historic sites (Independence Declaration)
• Quilmes Ruins

1. Humahuaca Valley:

• Scenic views
• Traditional villages

Mendoza

1. Wine tasting (Malbec)
2. Andes mountains (hiking)
3. Plaza Independencia
4. Parque General San Martín
5. Hot springs
6. Potrerillos Dam
7. Cacheuta (thermal waters)

Patagonia

1. Bariloche:

• Lake district
• Hiking trails
• Viewpoint Cerro Campanario

1. El Chaltén:

• Hiking trails
• Los Glaciares National Park

1. El Calafate:

• Perito Moreno Glacier
• Boat tours

1. Ushuaia:

• Tierra del Fuego National Park
• Beagle Channel boat tour

1. Puerto Madryn:

• Whale watching
• Peninsula Valdés

Iguazú

1. Iguazú Falls (Argentine side)
2. National Park
3. Devil’s Throat
4. Moonlight hike
5. Birdwatching

Córdoba

1. City tour (cathedral, plaza)
2. Sierras de Córdoba (hiking)
3. Jesuit Block
4. Plaza San Martín
5. Villa Allende (historic town)

Central Argentina

1. Rosario:

• City tour
• National Flag Monument

1. San Juan:

• Wine region
• Andes mountains

1. La Rioja:

• Wine region
• Indigenous ruins

Coastal Argentina

1. Mar del Plata:

• Beaches
• Casino

1. Pinamar:

• Beaches
• Nightlife

1. Colonia del Sacramento (Uruguay):

• Historic town
• Ferry ride

Food:

Food in Argentina is a result of a melange of flavors that have been inspired by European immigration, indigenous traditions, and rich agricultural resources. The love affair with meats, especially beef, is reflected in asado internationally, a slow-cooked barbecue feast that brings together families and friends.
Street food is everywhere, and choripán-a grilled sausage sandwich-and morcilla-blood sausage-are consumed by locals and travellers alike. Empanadas are meat, cheese, or vegetables wrapped in a salted pastry-you can take it out and eat it on the go or sit at a sidewalk café.
Traditional Argentine fare is sturdily filled with locro, or corn stew, humitas, a steamed pudding of corn, and churrasco, grilled steak-all reflecting the country’s Spanish and Italian origins. The Italian influence is alive in pasta con tuco-pasta with tomato sauce-and pizza, and the Spanish comes through in small plates called tapas.
Desserts are similarly decadent, with dulce de leche being an important factor in sweets like alfajores and flan. The wine country of Mendoza produces outstanding Malbec wines in Argentina, perfect for pairing with rich meats and cheeses.
Regional specialties include king crab in Patagonia and seafood in Tierra del Fuego; reflect the wide variation in geography and climate. The love of sweet treats is reflected in the many confiterías serving rich cakes and pastries in every town.
The food markets, like Feria de San Telmo in Buenos Aires and the Mercado Central in Salta, are a complete attack on the senses: the colors, the smell, and the taste. Artisan cheeses to fruits and vegetables just picked from the field, this highlights the difference in Argentinean cuisine and allows for tastings of local products.
Food is sacred, and mealtimes are sacrosanct-lunch or almuerzo usually falls between 12.30 and 3 pm while dinner or cena falls between 8 and 11 pm. The siesta is a common occurrence to rejuvenate for the evening’s culinary delight.
The warmth of the hospitality, richness of the history, and vibrancy of the culture of this nation find their proper manifestation in Argentinean cuisine. It is a must that no adventure trip to this land will be without relishing its mouthwatering food and drink.
Food is indeed closely associated with the family get-together and social gatherings in this country. Asados during weekends are common when extended families and friends get together, Sunday lunches being sacrosanct. Traditional dishes like roasted meats and pasta are common in most meals.
In holidays, Argentine food will, of course, be present, as in the case of the Fiesta de la Vendimia in Mendoza with its wine and specialties. Food here is contagious; any meal is a holiday.
Argentinean cuisine is in constant motion; even the chefs there have to prepare dishes typical of the nation, but with a modern turn. This mix between old and new brings about an unmatchable gastronomic experience, really representative of this country’s rich heritage.
From cozy parrillas to higher-end restaurants, dining options abound in Argentina to suit various tastes and budgets. From street food to fine dining, every food experience brings an unforgettable taste of warm Argentine hospitality and vibrant culture.
Argentina’s gastronomic tours are truly unforgettable experiences with flavors, aromas, and memories.

Culture:

Argentina’s culture is a vibrant tapestry woven from European, indigenous and African influences. The country’s history, geography and immigration have shaped a unique identity that resonates through its people, traditions and arts.

Family ties are strong, with close-knit families often gathering for Sunday lunches and celebrations. Respect for elders and tradition is deeply ingrained, reflecting Argentine values of hospitality, loyalty and community. Family gatherings, known as “reuniones,” are sacred, strengthening bonds and creating lasting memories.

Argentine identity is deeply rooted in its European heritage, particularly Italian and Spanish. This legacy is evident in language, customs and architecture. The country’s indigenous roots are also celebrated through traditional music, dance and crafts. Pre-Columbian cultures, like the Incas and Tehuelches, have left lasting impacts.

Music and dance are integral to Argentine culture, with tango being the iconic symbol. Born in Buenos Aires’ streets, tango embodies passion, romance and melancholy. Folk music, like chacarera and zamba, reflects the country’s indigenous and rural heritage. Traditional instruments, such as the bombo legüero and siku, add depth to folk melodies.

Literature has played a significant role, with celebrated authors like Jorge Luis Borges and Julio Cortázar contributing to Argentina’s literary landscape. The country’s rich literary heritage continues to inspire writers and intellectuals. Buenos Aires’ bookstores and libraries are treasure troves of literary gems.

Visual arts thrive, from colonial-era paintings to modern installations. Argentine artists like Fernando Fader and Antonio Berni have gained international recognition. The country’s vibrant street art scene transforms urban landscapes into colorful canvases, showcasing social commentary and creative expression.

Cinema has become an essential part of Argentine culture, with directors like Luis Puenzo and Juan José Campanella producing critically acclaimed films. The country hosts various film festivals, showcasing local and international talent. Buenos Aires’ iconic cinemas, like Teatro Colón, screen classic and contemporary films.

Traditions and celebrations are numerous, with the Fiesta de la Vendimia (Grape Harvest Festival) in Mendoza being a standout. Other notable events include the Feria Internacional del Libro (Buenos Aires Book Fair) and Encuentro Internacional de Jazz (International Jazz Meeting). Regional festivals, like the Fiesta de la Virgen de la Candelaria, showcase local music, dance and crafts.

Argentine football (soccer) passion is legendary, with legendary players like Diego Maradona and Lionel Messi becoming national heroes. Football stadiums are temples of fervent devotion, with fans displaying unwavering loyalty.

The country’s passionate nature is reflected in its enthusiastic celebrations, fiery politics and intense football rivalries. However, Argentines also cherish moments of quiet contemplation, savoring mate (traditional tea) and engaging in lively conversations.

Argentina’s cultural diversity is a reflection of its complex history, geographic vastness and immigrant influences. This rich heritage shapes everyday life, from family gatherings to vibrant street festivals.

Embracing Argentina’s culture means immersing oneself in its contradictions – European elegance and rough-around-the-edges passion, traditional values and modern creativity. Experience the warm hospitality, indulge in decadent asados and let the rhythms of tango and chacarera guide you through this captivating land.

As you wander through Argentina’s cities and countryside, you’ll discover vibrant markets, like Feria de San Telmo, offering antique treasures and local handicrafts. Buenos Aires’ iconic neighborhoods, such as La Boca and San Telmo, showcase colorful street art and historic architecture.

Argentina’s resilient spirit has weathered economic turmoil, social change and political upheaval. Through it all, the country’s culture remains a testament to its people’s strength and creativity.

From Patagonia’s rugged beauty to Mendoza’s wine country, Argentina’s diverse landscapes inspire artistic expression. The country’s rich cultural heritage is intertwined with its natural wonders, creating a unique tapestry that envelops visitors.

Indulge in Argentina’s rich cultural landscape, where European flair meets indigenous roots and vibrant traditions come alive.

Accommodations:

From wild to insane, to incredible-Argentina’s hostels are a haven for the totally broke backpacker in search of an experience that can barely be found anywhere else in the world. Leave the luxury amenities and polished decor behind; the cheapest always seems to be the most unforgettable. Budget-friendly hostels in Argentina do more than provide affordability but actually guarantee an immersive travel experience for their guests through interactions with locals, other travelers, and the vivid culture of the country. It’s in these humble abodes that friendships are forged: impromptu jamming sessions, asado shared by one and all, animated discussions running deep into the night.
By booking the cheapest options, travelers give in to serendipity, opening themselves to chance encounters and wild, impromptu adventure. Hostel dorms become faux family homes in which strangers turn into lifetime friends by way of late-night conversations and shared laughs. The communal atmosphere is palpable, with travelers swapping stories of adventures past and sharing plans for the future. Argentina’s hostels often reflect the country’s eclectic personality, fusing European charm with South American flair in a swirl of color and sound. Think plenty of colourful murals, strange spring decorations, and improvised furniture made out of waste materials; in one word, it’s rustically charming.
Social hotspots in hostels kick off tours with insider information from other travelers and recommendations from the staff. These social areas also arrange spontaneous activities, like live music nights, cooking classes, and language exchange nights, which may help to more fully solidify relationships among travelers. And then there is the hostel staff, very often enthusiastic locals, who tend to spill hidden treasures and insider knowledge that removes travelers from the beaten path. Embracing the unknown in Argentine budget hostels pays off in real experiences, from family-run hostels that give insight into the local tradition and homemade foods to hostel-organized activities like asado nights and wine tastings.
Skip the frills for an even more authentic Argentine experience, and plunge headlong into the no-holds-barred adrenaline of its budget hostels. Argentina’s hostel culture is spontaneous and living for connection-saying yes to the unknown greets you with experiences you will tell and retell. Travelers find hidden gems thanks to suggestions by staff members, mingle with other travelers from all walks of life, and join spontaneous events that live long after the trip is over. Every day is a promise of new adventure for visitors on budget tours to Argentina.
These are just examples of the impromptu tango lessons, football, and political debates that pulse throughout the day in Argentina’s hostels, alive with the country’s vibrant culture. The hostels reflect the passion, tradition, and quirks of the country; hence, each would be an Argentine mini-society unto itself. Young travelers get a glimpse into the carefree attitude of the Argentinians by learning to bend with the unexpected setbacks typical for budget travels. As travelers sink into hostel life, the infectious energy of Argentina becomes their own, moving them toward experiences and connections.
Budget hostels of Argentina triumph more in community than in comfort and in authenticity than in luxury. Travelers, who seek something more than just a place to sleep, find themselves engrossed in the most striking tapestry of cultures, traditions, and experiences. Therefore, put that guidebook aside and enter the hostel scenes of Argentina, where every corner conceals some surprise that simply requires that serendipity and spontaneity.

Nightlife:

Nocturnal Argentina pulsates with irrepressible energy, laces a spellbinding tapestry of sound, color, and movement. At dusk, cities turn into pulsating party centers where locals and travelers alike come together in the quest for unforgettable nights. The passionate spirit of the country, its rich culture, and warm hospitality converge in its nocturnal landscape.
Sultry tango clubs in Buenos Aires give way to riotous student bars in Córdoba. Mendoza calls with wine bars for a sophisticated night; Patagonia calls with rustic pubs of folk and a heaping dose of warm camaraderie. Each region makes its own magic at night, born of local traditions and history entwined with nature.
Nightlife in Argentina isn’t just about dancing; it is a complete cultural immersion. Native customs, mixed with influences from every other part of the world, create unique sounds, flavors, and atmospheres. Delight in live music-from rock nacional to cumbia villera-and sample the ancestral drinks, Fernet and Quilmes beer. Sample native food, from late-night feasts of asado to street food delicacies.
The nocturnal landscape of Argentina seamlessly segues from relaxed to raucous: from spirited evenings sipping cocktails atop bars or in cozy cafes to surrendering to infectious rhythms at dance clubs, rounding off the night with impromptu street parties or underground events. Each corner has a surprise.
Visitors are taken away by the contagious nightlife spirit of Argentina. Locals share their secrets and laughter around with newcomers to take them into their fold. Language barriers dissolve into the rhythm of music, dance, and shared excitement, making visitors part of the extended Argentine family.
Skies dotted with stars are utilized upon when rural towns hold festivals and vineyards offer moonlit wine tastings. The nocturnal energy, reminiscent of Argentina’s passion for life, befalls every corner.
Experiencing nightlife in Argentina is embracing spontaneity: follow recommendations from the locals, find your hidden gems, or be a part of an impromptu gathering. Nightlife becomes a journey of discovery in this country, forging unforgettable memories. Be prepared for serendipitous meetings, impromptu shows, and lifetime friendships.
The nights in Argentina bleed smoothly into the morning. By the time the first light peeks over the horizon, the revelers are there, resisting the end of this magical evening. Meanwhile, by sunrise, Argentina has woken up once again, refreshed for the adventure of the next night.
Dive headfirst into the pulsating nightlife of Argentina; every other evening promises surprise, connection, and indelible moments. Let rhythm guide you through vibrant cities and rustic towns amidst moonlit landscapes, forging lifelong memories with their attendant high octane.
On a night tour through the streets of Argentina, the world opens up to reveal unseen plazas, minute bars, and clandestine parties. You can almost hear snatches of conversations and joyous guffaws with fellow travelers, artists, and musicians. Nightlife in Argentina is woven into the tapestry of human connection.
Everything that happens at night serves as proof that passionate nature is instilled in every Argentinean activity-from the fervent soccer games to the dramatic performances of sensual tango-argentina’s nights are truly packed with passion. Night life epitomizes the soul of the country: vivid, expressive, and catching.
It’s time standing still in Argentine nightlife. Lose yourself in moments, not minutes. Every moment spent at laugh, dance, and conversation relishes. It is during the break of dawn that nocturnal magic has lingers on and takes one back home, only to call him or her back again.

Backpacking Argentina costs:

Daily Budget

$10-20 USD

Breakdown

• Accommodation: $3-8 USD (hostel dorms, camping)
• Food: $3-6 USD (street food, markets)
• Transportation: $1-3 USD (public buses)
• Attractions: $2-5 USD (free museums, parks)
• Miscellaneous: $2-5 USD

Weekly Budget

$70-140 USD

Conclusion:

As you go on your Argentine adventure, just remember: broke backpacking is not all about penny-pinching; it’s all about embracing spontaneity, connection, and authenticity. From colorful culture and breathtaking landscapes to the friendly vibe and a real tight budget, there is so much that Argentina has to offer.
Watch the city burst to life with street art and tango dancers for $10-20 a day. Make friends for life and get swept up in Argentina’s irrepressible energy. From tango-filled Buenos Aires to glacier-lined Patagonia, every day invites you to drink in this beautiful country.
Argentina’s pretty economic landscape invites travelers for a journey that pays in the form of unforgettable memories. So, drop all your expectations, get your backpack in place, and let the beguiling spirit of Argentina take over.
Enjoy your travel!