10 Most Beautiful Places in Argentina You Won’t Believe Exist

1. Buenos Aires

No Argentina travel guide would be complete without Buenos Aires. This city feels like Europe and Latin America decided to meet for a tango. It’s elegant, chaotic, full of character, and probably the best place to feel the heart of Argentina.

Buenos Aires is the kind of place where one moment you’re walking down a Parisian-style boulevard, and the next you’re watching locals dance tango in the streets. It’s vibrant, creative, and full of stories, the perfect introduction to any Argentina trip.

You can spend your mornings sipping coffee at Café Tortoni, Argentina’s oldest café, and your afternoons wandering through Recoleta’s elegant streets or people-watching in Palermo’s leafy parks. When the sun sets, it’s all about tango, wine, and parrillas.

If photography is your thing, the city is a dream. Every corner has a story, from colorful La Boca to ornate architecture downtown. Take a peek at my Buenos Aires photography guide to discover the most picturesque corners of the city.

📍 Don’t Miss: La Boca & Caminito Street, Café Tortoni, Teatro Colón, San Telmo Market, Puerto Madero.

Top Neighborhoods to Explore

• Recoleta – Polished, peaceful, and full of history. The Recoleta Cemetery is the highlight, but don’t skip the nearby cafés and art galleries.
• Palermo – Trendy, green, and effortlessly cool. Palermo Soho and Palermo Hollywood are full of street art, boutique stores, and some of the best brunch spots in the city.
• San Telmo – Old-world charm with cobblestones, tango in the plazas, and markets packed with character. If you love vintage finds and atmosphere, this is your place. Check out my San Telmo guide for ideas.
• La Boca – Bold, bright, and a little wild. Caminito Street is full of color, artists, and live tango. It’s touristy but still worth a walk, especially for photos.

👉 If you’re planning your visit, check out this 3-day Buenos Aires itinerary and discover the best areas for your stay in Buenos Aires, together with hotel recommendations. You will also want to see these Buenos Aires hidden gems and authentic experiences.

2. Salta and the Calchaquí Valleys

Salta is easily one of the most beautiful places in Argentina, a city where time slows down, colonial charm meets desert landscapes, and every corner feels connected to the country’s Andean roots. 

Known as Salta la Linda (“Salta the Beautiful”), this region is a highlight on any Argentina travel guide, offering the perfect mix of culture, adventure, and breathtaking scenery.

It’s also the gateway to some of the most scenic drives in Argentina. If you’re planning Argentina trips beyond Buenos Aires or Patagonia, Salta and the Calchaquí Valleys should be high on your list of Argentina must-see attractions.

Best Things to Do in Salta

Start your journey in the city of Salta itself. Take the cable car up to Cerro San Bernardo for panoramic views, or simply wander the old town and admire the pastel-colored facades and ornate churches.

If you love road trips, rent a car and follow one of the country’s most scenic routes, from Salta to Cafayate through the Quebrada de las Conchas. It’s one of those drives where you’ll want to stop every few minutes for photos.

👉 For insider tips, check out my Salta travel guide. It’s packed with ideas to help you plan your visit.

Exploring Cafayate and the Calchaquíes

A few hours south of Salta lies Cafayate, a charming town surrounded by vineyards and dramatic mountain landscapes. It’s smaller and calmer than Mendoza but just as special, especially if you enjoy good wine, local food, and peaceful countryside vibes.

The region is part of the Calchaquí Valleys, a network of winding roads, high-altitude vineyards, and desert towns like Cachi and Molinos. You can spend days exploring the valleys, tasting Torrontés wine (a local favorite), and photographing landscapes.

3. Sierra de Hornocal (Argentina’s 14-Color Mountain)

Serranía de los 14 Colores is one of the best places to visit in Argentina for nature lovers, a mountain so colorful it almost looks painted by hand.

Hidden in the province of Jujuy, this surreal landscape is part of the UNESCO-listed Quebrada de Humahuaca region, a place that feels both ancient and otherworldly.

The mountain unfolds in layers of reds, yellows, and purples. Each shade reveals a different mineral composition shaped by millions of years. It’s easily one of the most beautiful places in Argentina, and yet it remains surprisingly peaceful and uncrowded.

Sierra de Hornocal might not be the easiest place to reach, but it’s absolutely worth the effort. Whether you’re road-tripping through northern Argentina or exploring Jujuy’s hidden corners, this spot deserves a place on your bucket list of Argentina’s natural wonders.

Getting There from Humahuaca

The viewpoint is just a short drive from the town of Humahuaca, located in Argentina’s northwest. The road is a dirt track that climbs quickly into the mountains, so while a regular car can make it, it’s best to take it slow and make sure your vehicle is in good condition. 

The journey alone is worth it! You’ll pass through arid valleys dotted with cacti and may even spot vicuñas, elegant wild relatives of llamas, along the way.

The colors of the mountains shift constantly with the changing sunlight, so plan to spend a couple of hours here if you can. Morning or late afternoon light brings out the most dramatic contrasts.

✨ Practical info: Open daily 10:00–18:00 | Access fee: around 500 ARS

4. Salinas Grandes

If you’re chasing one of the most surreal landscapes in Argentina, the Salinas Grandes are an absolute must. Located between the Salta and Jujuy regions, these salt flats are the second-largest in South America (just after Bolivia!) and easily rank among the most beautiful places in Jujuy.

Whether you’re based in Salta or Jujuy, the Salinas can be visited comfortably on a day trip. While there are plenty of organized tours, nothing beats a fun Argentinian road trip where you can explore other gems along the way.

When you arrive, you’ll need to purchase a ticket to enter the salt flats. Your guide will usually escort you along a pre-set route, pointing out the most photogenic and interesting spots. And trust me, the endless white horizon and reflective surfaces create unreal photo opportunities.

The magic of Salinas Grandes is in its scale and colors. Sometimes you’ll see the surface covered in a thin layer of water, creating a mirror effect that reflects the sky, one of the most incredible sights you’ll encounter in Argentina’s travel destinations.

📍 Combine your visit with Sierra de Hornocal, explore the surrounding valleys, and don’t skip a stop in Salta for culture, food, and colonial charm. Visiting the Salinas is truly one of the most unique things to do in Jujuy and an essential stop on any Argentina trip.

5. Iguazú Falls

If you’re looking for one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Argentina (or in the world!), Iguazú Falls should be at the very top of your list. Straddling the Argentina–Brazil border, this natural wonder is made up of over 270 cascades surrounded by lush subtropical rainforest. 

From Argentina, you’ll get up close to the waterfalls, wandering extensive walking trails and spotting coatis, toucans, and colorful butterflies along the way. On the Brazilian side, you’ll find sweeping panoramic views that let you take in the full scale of this massive waterfall system. 

The highlight of both sides? The Devil’s Throat (Garganta del Diablo)! U-shaped gorge where the largest volume of water plunges in a thunderous display.

📍 Don’t Miss: Devil’s Throat walkway, Upper & Lower Circuits (Argentina), panoramic viewpoints (Brazil), and the nearby Hito Tres Fronteras, where Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay meet.

Iguazú Falls Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: March–May and August–September offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
• Getting There: Fly into Puerto Iguazú (Argentina) or Foz do Iguaçu (Brazil). 
• Entrance Fees: Argentina ~30 USD | Brazil ~20 USD
• Border Crossing: If visiting both sides, bring your passport and check visa requirements. It’s quick but essential to plan.

If you only have a day, you can see both sides with a private driver, though two days is ideal to explore the trails, viewpoints, and optional activities like helicopter rides or boat tours.

For a full breakdown of how to plan your trip, including detailed Iguazu Falls Argentina travel tips, entrance fees, trails, wildlife encounters, and tours, check out my complete guide here: How to Visit Iguazu Falls in Argentina & Brazil.

6. El Calafate and the Perito Moreno Glacier (Argentina’s Icy Wonder)

No visit to Patagonia is complete without seeing the Perito Moreno Glacier, one of the most spectacular natural wonders in Argentina. 

Located near the charming town of El Calafate, this massive ice wall stretches over 5 kilometers and towers up to 70 meters above the water, making it an unforgettable stop on any Argentina Patagonia glacier tour.

No matter if you’re here for the classic viewpoints, a boat tour, or even walking on the glacier itself, there’s no shortage of ways to experience its icy majesty. The sound of cracking ice and falling glaciers is truly something you have to witness in person.

How to Visit Perito Moreno Glacier

The glacier is located inside Los Glaciares National Park, about 80 km from El Calafate. Most travelers take a day trip by bus, car, or organized tour. There are several ways to explore:

• Walk the Viewing Platforms: Easy access trails offer breathtaking views of the glacier’s massive ice walls. Perfect for photography.
• Boat Tours: Get up close to the glacier from the water.
• Glacier Trekking: For the adventurous, guided ice walks are available. Strap on crampons and step right onto the glacier for an unforgettable experience.

While the glacier is the main attraction, El Calafate itself is worth exploring. Stroll the town, enjoy Patagonian cuisine at local restaurants, or visit the Glaciarium Museum to learn more about the region’s ice fields. 

7. El Chaltén

If you’re a fan of hiking and breathtaking landscapes, El Chaltén is a dream come true. Known as Argentina’s trekking capital, this tiny town in Patagonia is the gateway to some of the country’s most epic trails and panoramic views. 

The crown jewel here is Laguna de los Tres, the iconic viewpoint offering amazing views of Mount Fitz Roy. The hike itself is challenging but rewarding, winding through lenga forests, rivers, and rocky landscapes that showcase the raw beauty of Patagonia. 

Hiking in El Chaltén offers options for all levels. The classic trail to Laguna de los Tres provides the ultimate Fitz Roy views, while shorter paths like Laguna Capri give you peaceful lake reflections of the mountain. 

Even beyond hiking, El Chaltén has its charms. Wildlife is abundant, from soaring condors to playful guanacos and the occasional fox. Photography opportunities are everywhere, from rivers and lakes to panoramic mountain views.

8. San Carlos de Bariloche

Tucked in the heart of Northern Patagonia, San Carlos de Bariloche is one of those Argentina travel guide favorites that feels straight out of a fairytale. It’s the perfect mix of adventure and indulgence, surrounded by some of the most beautiful places in Argentina.

Set on the shores of Lake Nahuel Huapi, Bariloche is the main gateway to Nahuel Huapi National Park, where hiking trails wind through forests, crystal-clear lakes, and stunning viewpoints. 

If you love scenic drives in Argentina, this region will steal your heart. Especially with the legendary Route of the Seven Lakes, a road trip that connects Bariloche to San Martín de los Andes through some of Patagonia’s most breathtaking landscapes.

In town, Bariloche charms you with its alpine-style architecture and its reputation as Argentina’s chocolate capital. Don’t miss a stroll down Calle Mitre to sample handmade chocolates, local beer, and hearty mountain dishes. 

Beyond the town, there’s plenty to explore: from the calm waters of Lago Moreno and Lago Gutiérrez to panoramic viewpoints like Cerro Campanario, which might just offer one of the best views in all of Patagonia.

If you’re planning Argentina trips focused on nature, good food, and scenic drives, Bariloche is a must. Combine it with the Route of the Seven Lakes Drive for the ultimate Northern Patagonia adventure.

9. Puerto Madryn

If you love nature and wildlife, Puerto Madryn is one of those destinations in Argentina you can’t miss. This seaside town on the Atlantic coast is the gateway to Peninsula Valdés, one of the best places in South America for spotting marine animals in their natural habitat.

Visiting Peninsula Valdés for wildlife in Argentina is an experience that feels straight out of a nature documentary. Depending on the season, you can see southern right whales breaching just offshore, playful sea lions basking on the beaches, and colonies of Magellanic penguins. 

But there’s more to Puerto Madryn than just wildlife. The town has a laid-back coastal vibe, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure. You can snorkel with sea lions at Punta Loma, explore nearby dunes, or simply walk along the waterfront promenade at sunset. 

If you’re planning your Argentina trips with a focus on nature and photography, this region offers endless opportunities. The dramatic coastal landscapes of Peninsula Valdés are a dream for anyone seeking the wild side of Argentina tourism.

10. Mendoza: Argentina’s Wine Paradise

When it comes to Argentina tourism, few places capture the country’s spirit quite like Mendoza. Nestled at the foot of the Andes, this sunny region is all about wine, mountains, and good vibes with the unmistakable scent of Malbec in the air.

Mendoza is the heart of wine tourism in Argentina, famous worldwide for its deep red Malbecs and breathtaking scenery. It’s an experience you’ll remember every time you open a bottle.

Beyond the vineyards, the city of Mendoza itself has a relaxed charm. You can stroll through leafy plazas, enjoy world-class cuisine, or spend the afternoon in one of the many wine spas that pair relaxation with your favorite varietals (yes, that’s a thing!). 

And if you’re craving adventure, the Andes are right there. Perfect for hiking, rafting, or even a scenic drive to Chile through the stunning Paso de los Libertadores.

Bonus: Other Hidden Gems Worth Visiting

Argentina is full of surprises, and while the famous spots get most of the attention, there are plenty of destinations that remain under the radar. If you love discovering places before everyone else, these hidden gems deserve a spot on your Argentina itinerary.

Corrientes and the Esteros del Iberá are a paradise for wildlife lovers. Often compared to Brazil’s Pantanal, this massive wetland is one of the most biodiverse regions in South America. You can explore by boat, go on a guided safari, or spend the night in an eco-lodge.

Further west, in the provinces of San Juan and La Rioja, you’ll find two of Argentina’s most unique national parks: Parque Nacional Ischigualasto and Parque Nacional Talampaya. Together, they form a landscape straight out of Mars, with red rock formations, deep canyons, and a fossil record.

Exploring La Rioja, Argentina’s Talampaya and Ischigualasto Park, is an adventure for anyone fascinated by geology or history. These parks are a true reminder of how diverse and dramatic Argentina’s landscapes can be.

If you’ve already checked off the most beautiful places in Argentina, these lesser-known spots are your chance to go deeper & see the country beyond the postcards and experience its wild, untouched side.