Your 14-Day Argentina & Chile Trip: Esquina Carlos Gardel & Beyond

Arrive at Ezeiza International Airport (EZE). For transfer to your hotel in Recoleta, you have several options: the Manuel Tienda León bus shuttle to Retiro (approximately 1 hour, ~$10-12), followed by a short taxi or subway ride to your hotel; the public bus Line 8 to the city center (~1.5-2 hours, ~$2-3) then subway; or a direct taxi (~45-60 min, ~$35). This cost reflects a comfortable, budget-conscious shuttle option.

"Our large group of 50 boarded a domestic flight to and from Iguazu for a day trip to the falls. The domestic airport is clean, fairly new and organized. Entry doors are automatic with wide accessible floors. Security is efficient and organized Several eateries offer coffees, quick bites with accessible seating and open entry. Free WiFi Restrooms are marked with large lifesize orange signs of man and female icons. Dedicated accessible stall with 2 grab bars and 5ft x5 ft space. One stall has a child seat to secure child up to 50 pounds. Signage for gates is large readable and posted in English and Spanish."— Toni Thompson

Explore the beautiful and educational Jardín Botánico Carlos Thays, a tranquil oasis showcasing diverse plant species, themed gardens, and charming greenhouses. A perfect introduction to Buenos Aires' green spaces, covering the 'nature' interest.

"Some may consider this botanical garden more of an arboretum since its focus seems to be more on trees rather than flowers, but it is a marvelous place for a late summer stroll. The gardens are laid into sections representative of different global regions, along with traditional gardens in the Roman and French styles. Statues can be found in some sections, and benches are located throughout for those who would like to simply sit and enjoy the green space. Admission to the grounds is free, but they are closed on Mondays."— Timothy Cargal

Visit the iconic Floralis Generica, a giant metal flower sculpture that opens and closes with the sun, then stroll through the adjacent Plaza Francia, a beautiful public park known for its relaxed atmosphere and weekend markets.

"Beautiful location and definitely a must see in Buenos Aires. It’s surrounded by such a nice park - clean, cozy and well maintained with a lot of parrots and sparrows inside. On weekdays it doesn’t have many people but on weekends you might see a crowd, however there is a place for everyone."— Margarita Roman

Immerse yourself in Argentine and international art at the Nacional Museum of Fine Arts, home to an extensive collection spanning various periods and styles. Located conveniently near Plaza Francia.

"It was raining in Buenos Aires on Thursday, November 20, so we looked for an indoor activity near our hotel in Retiro. That search led us to the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes, which holds one of the most impressive art collections in Latin America. The museum features major works by Goya, Rembrandt, Rodin, Van Gogh, Manet, and Chagall, so it immediately felt like the perfect choice for a rainy afternoon. When we arrived, we made a small donation at the self‑kiosk and stepped inside. It seemed that many people had the same idea, because by 2:30 p.m. the museum was absolutely packed. The crowds were a good sign that the museum was worth the visit, and it certainly lived up to its reputation. The layout is easy to understand once you get your bearings. The ground floor features the European Art galleries, which include everything from medieval works to unforgettable pieces by Rembrandt, Rubens, Manet, and Van Gogh. The upper floors focus on Argentine Art and offer a fascinating look at the country’s painters and modern movements. The sculpture halls contain an impressive Rodin collection, and nearby rooms display Pre‑Columbian Andean artifacts that add even more depth to the experience. A separate pavilion hosts rotating temporary exhibitions, and the museum’s large research library is available for anyone who wants to explore further. We did not stay as long as we hoped because the crowds were overwhelming, but the visit was still worthwhile. Next time we are in Buenos Aires, we plan to arrive right when the museum opens so we can enjoy the galleries with a little more space and take a deeper look at everything this remarkable museum has to offer"— Roman

Step into one of the world's most beautiful bookstores, El Ateneo Grand Splendid, housed in a former theater. Marvel at its ornate architecture and browse its vast collection of books.

"Absolutely stunning bookstore in a former theater – truly one of the most beautiful bookshops I’ve ever visited. The original theater details are still intact, so you can browse shelves of books while admiring the balconies, stage, and ornate ceiling. The café on the old stage is a fantastic place to sit with a coffee and soak in the atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot to spend a few unhurried hours wandering, reading, and people-watching in a unique setting. An absolute must-visit when you’re in Buenos Aires."— Marisa Pertierra

Explore this expansive ecological reserve, an unexpected oasis of nature and wildlife on the Río de la Plata riverfront. Enjoy walking trails, birdwatching, and a serene escape from the city bustle.

"The first time I tried to come here, the place was closed due to the trails condition apparently. Today it was open and it’s free to visit. The boardwalks were closed, though. It’s a great place to walk or run (saw several runners), and there are picnic tables and a large area where people sunbathe (it’s not allowed to bathe on the beach though). Not a lot of shade whilst walking so apply sunscreen before coming and bring a hat. Also, brought my camera with my telephoto lens but didn’t see many birds (almost none, really). There can be some snakes around, but didn’t see those neither. It’s a pity the amount of trash you see by the coast and even at some parts of the park."— André Marques

Visit Buenos Aires' historic main square, surrounded by important government buildings like the Casa Rosada and the Metropolitan Cathedral. Learn about Argentina's political history and significant events.

"Plaza de Mayo is like visiting the White House in Washington, it is that kind of tour. You can go there on your own. It is safe. It is a busy place. There are lots of police as La Casa Rosada, the Pink House which is the government seat is located. This is a fantastic place to people-watch and to take timeless photographs. This is the same area where all the city tour busses also pick up their passengers. I have visited this place 3 times, and on 3 different occasions over the years. Your experience will not get anymore touristy than Plaza de Mayo. Busses to La Boca stop on the right side of the plaza, just incase you wanted to extend your day to see other tourist site."— Hillel Guni Ben Abraham

Take a guided tour of the Palacio Barolo, an architectural masterpiece inspired by Dante's Divine Comedy. Ascend to the lighthouse for panoramic city views and uncover its fascinating symbolism.

"We took the Twilight tour which was fantastic. Martina was our tour guide and provided clear and interesting information in both English and Spanish. She was very knowledgeable and friendly. The views from the tower and lighthouse were great. There was live cello music in the tower which was great!"— Jesper Malmberg

Stroll through the cobblestone streets of San Telmo, one of Buenos Aires' oldest neighborhoods, known for its bohemian vibe. Explore antique shops and the historic Plaza Dorrego, a hub for tango and street artists.

"A great place to experience local culture! Lively atmosphere with tango dancers, street artists, antique stalls, and cafés all around. Perfect spot to sit back with a drink and watch Buenos Aires come alive. 💃☕️🇦🇷"— Charles Zhu

Wander through the expansive urban park, enjoy the serene lake, and admire the beautiful Rosedal (rose garden). A great spot for morning strolls and photography.

"A very beautiful place to visit if you’re searching for a nice and calm place to sit. You can sit for hours and enjoy the scene at the river especially by sunny weather. You can spend half a day here and then go to the Japanese garden as it is close and you can walk to there. You have also the Possibility to get a boat. Enjoy the garden!"— A Psh

Discover the tranquil Japanese Garden, a peaceful oasis with traditional architecture, koi ponds, and meticulously maintained landscapes.

"The Japanese Gardens are pleasant and well maintained, with nice paths, ponds, and a calm atmosphere in the middle of the city. That said, the entrance fee for foreigners is quite high for what you get, so it’s not really a must-see unless you have plenty of time or really enjoy gardens. A nice stop, but not essential."— Thorsten Körner

Immerse yourself in the wonders of the universe with a visit to this iconic planetarium, offering engaging shows and exhibits about astronomy.

"It’s a planetarium — a space dedicated to astronomy education and discovery — designed to introduce people of all ages to the cosmos through captivating shows, exhibits, and interactive experiences. The building itself is a striking architectural symbol of science and exploration in Buenos Aires. 🌟  🌠 Main Features • A large circular dome (about 20 meters in diameter) where immersive astronomical shows are projected, with thousands of stars, planets, galaxies, and celestial phenomena displayed in high resolution. 🌌🎥"— Agustín

Explore the charming streets of Palermo Soho, known for its trendy boutiques, vibrant street art, and cozy cafes. It's a great area for a relaxed stroll.

"Lugar alternativo"— Luis Fernando Oliveira

Wander through the vibrant, colorful streets of Caminito, soak in the artistic atmosphere, and see the traditional 'conventillos' houses. Experience the unique charm of this historic port neighborhood.

"Beautiful area where you can stroll and a the multi-colored houses and purchase items from local artist. We found a great multi-media piece of art to take home. You can also get your picture with a Tango dancer for a little charge, if that's your fancy. If you do visit, find out the history of the area, and why the houses are painted multiple colors. Safe travels!"— Roger DelCastillo

Discover the fascinating history of Buenos Aires' water system and sanitation in a stunning 19th-century palace, known for its intricate architecture and stained glass.

"One of the most unique museums I've been to! I walked in on a weekday in late January and was able to secure a reservation for the guided tour. There was an issue with purchasing tickets using the online system but the museum attendant was really patient and helpful. The guided tour is in Spanish only (I believe) though there are QR codes in a few languages (including English) for a few of the highlights (the information is not as robust or energetic as the guide). I learned a lot about the fascinating history of sanitation works in Buenos Aires and highly recommend this as a must-see museum on your trip!"— Rishi Mistry

Explore contemporary art exhibitions in a modern cultural center located right on the waterfront in La Boca, offering diverse local and international works.

"Had a walking tour around La Boca and really enjoyed it, learnt the history about the area and how tango dance started in La Boca. I would recommend to take a tour as we have been told that this area can be dangerous. With guided tour, the guide took as around the area, showed us the areas where tourists are not welcome and where we can walk freely but being cautious. Very colourful area. Full of restaurants and tango shows. It’s a must to visit during tour in Buenos Aires."— Arunas Juskys

Walk through the historic Plaza del Congreso, admire the impressive architecture of the National Congress of Argentina, and observe the daily life in this political heart of the city.

"A beautiful and historic plaza right in front of the Argentine Congress. The architecture is stunning, especially the Palacio del Congreso itself, and the green spaces are perfect for a short walk or a break during sightseeing. It’s lively, full of local life, and gives you a real sense of Buenos Aires’ political and cultural history. Great spot for photos and people-watching."— Andreas Nielsen

See the iconic Obelisco, a national historic monument, and experience the grandeur of Avenida 9 de Julio, one of the widest avenues in the world, a true symbol of Buenos Aires.

"We found an air b and b 2 blocks from here. The landmark made it easy to find our place when we walked. We loved getting coffee and tea at some of the venues on the corners. It is feasible to walk around the obelisk via crosswalks and even walk to the obelisk itself. This is right next to the big topiary BA letters for picture taking. To get the whole obelisk and the BAletters in your photo, you have a small person in the photo. This plaza is the place where futbol (soccer) victories, sports wins, and major events are celebrated."— Toni Thompson

Stroll along the bustling Avenida Corrientes, known as the 'street that never sleeps,' famous for its theaters, bookstores, pizzerias, and vibrant cultural life.

"Just stopped by Looks great Variety of items For collectors."— Batnight 6616

Begin the day with a visit to the historic Recoleta Cemetery in Buenos Aires, an architectural marvel and final resting place for many of Argentina's most influential figures, including Eva Perón.

"La Recoleta Cemetery is one of the world's most beautiful and historic burial grounds, located in Buenos Aires, Argentina. It's also called a "city of the dead,". It's like an open-air museum, the topmost tourist attraction in Buenos Aires. It's the final resting place of Argentina's notable historical figures, including Presidents and Nobel Prize winners. The architecture of the Mausoleums are stunning, each one differs from the other. Some are very well maintained, but some are falling apart. Must visit with a guide to understand the significance of the Mausoleums."— Soudamini Mohapatra

Immerse yourself in the world of Patagonian glaciers at this innovative ice museum. Learn about their formation, ecology, and the local wildlife that thrives in the Patagonian ecosystem through interactive exhibits, fulfilling your interest in nature and wildlife.

"I was pleasantly surprised. I want expecting much but it was well done. Informative exhibits which were very relaxant after coming from Perito Moreno Glacier. A short movie showing the collapse of the dome. Took about 1.5 hrs to go through it checking out and reading everything."— Brittany Murphy

Embark on an exhilarating full-day guided tour for a 'nature' and 'adventure' experience. This includes bus transfers from El Calafate, a scenic boat journey across Lago Rico, a short walk along the Perito Moreno Glacier walkways for panoramic views, and a thrilling guided walk on the ice with crampons. Witness stunning ice formations and deep blue crevasses.

"We chose the Safari Azul tour because it was cheaper than the Mini Trekking option, but it turned out to be even better than we expected. It was a 9-hour tour, and we never got bored. The tour was very well organized. At the beginning, we had about two hours of free time inside the national park, which was the perfect amount of time to slowly enjoy the glacier. On the way there, the guide explained the glacier and El Calafate in both Spanish and English. Our guide was wonderful and explained everything with a smile, which made the trip even more enjoyable. After the two hours of free time in the national park, we took a cruise and were able to admire the glacier slowly from very close to the shore. The guide on the boat was also very funny and friendly. We were able to get much closer to the glacier than we expected, and there was plenty of time to take photos. We even saw parts of the glacier break off right in front of us. On the way back, the boat slowly cruised near the glacier again, which was very impressive. I fell asleep on the bus ride back, so it felt very quick. Overall, we were extremely satisfied with this tour."— Sayaka

Embark on a scenic hike up to Mirador del Calafate, a viewpoint offering breathtaking panoramic vistas of Lake Argentino, El Calafate town, and the surrounding Patagonian landscape. A great way to start the day with fresh air and stunning scenery.

"You should plan for two hours here. The beginning of the trail might be muggy but second half would be sandy with strong winds. Make sure you wear good shoes, hats and trekking poles if needed."— Peng Qiao (Eddie)

Explore the vibrant main thoroughfare of El Calafate, Avenida del Libertador. Discover local shops, souvenir stores, and admire the unique Patagonian architecture.

"They offer nice cards and souvenirs, which are not the typical cheap ones but nicely made. Would come back"— Victoria

Take a leisurely walk along the shores of Bahía Redonda, a bay of Lake Argentino. This area is known for its diverse birdlife, offering excellent opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying the serene Patagonian nature.

"Very good hotel & restaurant!!"— João Damásio

Embark on a spectacular catamaran journey across the northern arm of Lake Argentino, navigating through a landscape of icebergs and taking in panoramic views of the Patagonian mountains and the Upsala Glacier front.

"A must do experience in Patagonia if you are looking for wild tracking and remoteness attraction. The Icebergs and glacier Upsula part of the trip is unbelievable, you can’t get there otherwise. Hike at the estancia Cristina is wild and you would go through the terrains you haven’t seen before. It is not a difficult hike and we did it in 4 hours. Prices are high but the service and exclusivity worth it"— Khrystyna T

Arrive at the historic Estancia Cristina and embark on a guided tour. Explore the old sheep shearing shed, the museum, and learn about the fascinating history of the pioneering family who founded this remote Patagonian ranch.

"A must do experience in Patagonia if you are looking for wild tracking and remoteness attraction. The Icebergs and glacier Upsula part of the trip is unbelievable, you can’t get there otherwise. Hike at the estancia Cristina is wild and you would go through the terrains you haven’t seen before. It is not a difficult hike and we did it in 4 hours. Prices are high but the service and exclusivity worth it"— Khrystyna T

Embark on an exhilarating 4x4 ride through rugged mountain trails, ascending to a viewpoint that offers breathtaking panoramic vistas of the immense Upsala Glacier, Lake Guillermo, and the sprawling Patagonian Ice Field.

"A must do experience in Patagonia if you are looking for wild tracking and remoteness attraction. The Icebergs and glacier Upsula part of the trip is unbelievable, you can’t get there otherwise. Hike at the estancia Cristina is wild and you would go through the terrains you haven’t seen before. It is not a difficult hike and we did it in 4 hours. Prices are high but the service and exclusivity worth it"— Khrystyna T

Enjoy the peaceful catamaran journey back to Punta Bandera Port, reflecting on the day's majestic Patagonian landscapes and perhaps spotting some lake birds along the way.

"Our day trip to the Glaciar Perito Moreno was an amazing day, not only because we had perfect blue skies but also because our tour guide Tobias and driver Sebastian were also perfect. We started out at around 10:30am from El Calafate once everyone on the tour had been picked up, and then Tobias spoke at length about El Calafate, the surrounding environment and history, and details about the glacier. His knowledge was very insightful and added to the enjoyment. The glaciar is a must-do for anyone travelling to El Calafate, and Patagonia Dreams is a fantastic choice to facilitate your visit."— Warren Bitner

Enjoy a leisurely walk along the boardwalks of this municipal reserve, famous for its diverse birdlife, including flamingos and black-necked swans, set against the backdrop of Lake Argentino. A perfect spot for nature and wildlife photography.

"We visited the Reserva Laguna Nimez during our stay in El Calafate, and it was a lovely experience. The visit takes about one to one and a half hours at a relaxed pace, following a peaceful trail that loops around the lagoon. The entrance fee is 12,000 ARS per person, which feels fair considering the beauty of the place and the tranquility it offers. You can see a wide variety of birds, including flamingos, ducks, and many local species, it’s a real paradise for bird lovers and photographers. The landscape is stunning, with views of the lagoon, the steppe, and the Andes in the background. The paths are easy to walk and well maintained, making it accessible for most visitors. It’s a perfect stop if you want to enjoy nature, take a break from the busy town, and experience a different side of Patagonia. Bring a camera and take your time, it’s well worth it!"— Beat Robuchon

Embark on a final, invigorating hike to Mirador del Calafate, taking in the expansive views of Lake Argentino, El Calafate town, and the surrounding Patagonian steppe. This offers one last immersion into the stunning natural landscape before departing.

"You should plan for two hours here. The beginning of the trail might be muggy but second half would be sandy with strong winds. Make sure you wear good shoes, hats and trekking poles if needed."— Peng Qiao (Eddie)

Take a refreshing walk along the scenic Última Esperanza Fjord, enjoying stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the iconic 'hand' sculpture. Afterwards, browse the small artisan market near the waterfront for local crafts and souvenirs.

"Beautiful place with multiple local vendors with unique products that are well priced. One of kind goods that you wouldn’t find at your typical souvenir stores. Do remember, they close for lunch between 1-3PM"— Ankit Takallapaly

Embark on a comprehensive full-day tour of the iconic Torres del Paine National Park. Witness breathtaking granite peaks, azure glaciers, and emerald lakes. Explore key viewpoints such as Lago Grey for the glacier, Mirador Salto Grande, Lago Peho , and enjoy short, scenic walks. Keep an eye out for diverse wildlife including guanacos, foxes, and condors.

"We must say that we were truly disappointed with the service provided. The minivan assigned to us was far too small. There were nine passengers, in addition to the driver and the guide — eleven people in total. As a result, at every stop (and there were many), we had to repeatedly unfold and refold three rows of small side benches, which was both inconvenient and uncomfortable. The air conditioning was also inadequate. The front row was freezing, while passengers in the back rows were left suffering from the heat. To make matters worse, the rear door did not close properly. Since most of the trip was on dirt roads, large amounts of dust entered the vehicle throughout the journey. It became extremely unpleasant, and I ended up feeling sick. Given the number of tour operators available in the area, we would strongly recommend choosing a different company"— LEI

Embark on a captivating full-day catamaran journey through the Última Esperanza Fjord. Marvel at the dramatic Patagonian landscape, pass by colonies of sea lions and cormorants, and get up close to the awe-inspiring Balmaceda Glacier before disembarking for a short hike to the base of the actively calving Serrano Glacier.

"It’s a wonder! Don’t miss it! The glaciar is amazing and the park has one of the best structures for your visit. Restaurants, buses (to avoid climbing up stairs), parking lots, restrooms, “miradores” everywhere to give you the most various angles of the glaciar."— Rafaela da Costa Ferreira

Explore the vast Mylodon Cave, a natural monument where remains of prehistoric giant ground sloths were discovered. Wander through the impressive cavern system and learn about the region's ancient past.

"We came here as part of a viewpoints tour available on TripAdvisor and it was worth it. I wouldn’t just do the cave, but when you’re on an organised excursion and stop here, it’s definitely nice. Before they used the cave for summer concerts but not anymore, as part of the plan to protect and preserve it."— André Marques

Take a short drive or easy hike to Mirador Cerro Dorotea for breathtaking panoramic views of Puerto Natales, the Última Esperanza Fjord, and the surrounding Patagonian landscape.

"Cerro Dorotea is a solid option if you have a few spare hours and want to stretch your legs while getting nice views over the area. The trail starts on a working farm, where you pay 5,000 CLP per person in cash directly to the landowner. He was very kind and welcoming. The hike begins by crossing the farm and then climbs up a steeper hill, but it’s very doable and not overly strenuous. We reached the top in 57 minutes at a very relaxed pace, and spent time exploring the trails at the summit. Total time was about 2.5 hours. The views from the top are quite nice, especially considering how close it is to town. There is cell service at the bottom, so calling a taxi or Uber to get back to Puerto Natales is not a problem. Overall, a good, easy way to get some exercise and enjoy the outdoors without committing to a full-day hike."— Gabi Fulcher

Enjoy a scenic walk up to Mirador de la Cruz for panoramic views of Puerto Natales, Última Esperanza Fjord, and the surrounding mountains. A final dose of Patagonian nature before your journey.

"This small hill stands within the inland residential area of Punta Arenas some 20-30 min walk from the seaside avenue and port. However, I advise taking a taxi to get there, and then walk slowly downhill back through the neighborhood. Nice views of entire Punta Arenas, as well few cafes around"— Dejan Braki

Take a leisurely stroll along the Puerto Natales waterfront, enjoying the fjord views and fresh air. Browse the local artisan shops for unique Patagonian souvenirs, from woolen crafts to local delicacies.

"Absolutely love it! The staff are friendly and there is an amazing selection of handcrafted souvenirs - all made in Chile. We bought a few things and could have continued shopping, if we had more space in our luggage. Definitely recommend this store to everyone looking for something beautiful and well made."— Victoria

Begin the extensive journey from your hotel in Puerto Natales. This involves a transfer to Punta Arenas Airport (PUQ), a domestic flight to Buenos Aires, and subsequent transit to Ezeiza International Airport (EZE) to check in for your international flight home to New York, NY, departing at 9:00 PM.

"Our large group of 50 boarded a domestic flight to and from Iguazu for a day trip to the falls. The domestic airport is clean, fairly new and organized. Entry doors are automatic with wide accessible floors. Security is efficient and organized Several eateries offer coffees, quick bites with accessible seating and open entry. Free WiFi Restrooms are marked with large lifesize orange signs of man and female icons. Dedicated accessible stall with 2 grab bars and 5ft x5 ft space. One stall has a child seat to secure child up to 50 pounds. Signage for gates is large readable and posted in English and Spanish."— Toni Thompson