Tailor-made
Argentina
Holidays
Louise, our dedicated Argentina expert, knows and loves the country with a passion. With her first-hand knowledge, vast experience and real care, you’ll know your precious holiday is in the best hands.
Overview
Argentina is bold, brilliant and full of surprises, from tango halls and sizzling steakhouses to glaciers, gauchos and wildlife-filled wetlands. Our Louise knows the country inside out and will tailor your holiday from scratch. Want to sip on a Malbec in Mendoza? Chase waterfalls in the north? Or hike through Patagonia’s wild corners? Whatever you’re after, Louise's expert insight and local know-how will ensure your Argentina trip is anything but ordinary.










Meet our Argentina expert
We offer tailor-made holidays to suit a wide range of tastes. Our expert Louise is dedicated to all things Argentina and is here to help you plan your perfect trip.
14 July 2026
Where to go in November
If you like to travel when things are a bit quieter and prices are more reasonable, November is a good month to consider. You’ll find Japan’s autumn colours at their best, the mountains in northern Vietnam are perfect for trekking, the Nile is comfortable for cruising, and Patagonia is just starting to wake up for the season. Each destination below has been chosen by our specialists who know the country like the back of their hands. Over the past year, we’ve walked through the streets of Rajasthan, sailed the Nile, looked for pumas in Patagonia, explored the rainforests of Costa Rica and trekked in northern Vietnam’s rice terraces. Every recommendation comes from the experts’ genuine connection to these places, shaped by their countless visits. These are cherished favourites, far beyond anything you’d find in a brochure. If you’re thinking about taking a trip in November, these are the places our experts personally recommend. These are our top picks on where to go in November For colourful cultures and easy breezy exploring Egypt in November Taken by HA expert Ian in Hurghada, 2026. Egypt changes completely depending on when you visit. And if there's one month Cat and Ian happily recommend to almost anyone considering a trip to Egypt, it's November. By November, the summer heat has dropped, so you can spend more time out and about without having to duck into the shade every few minutes. It’s a comfortable time to explore the Great Pyramids, walk through Cairo’s old streets, or take your time at the temples in Luxor. Everything just feels a bit more manageable. November is also a popular time for Nile cruises. It’s a relaxed way to travel between Luxor and Aswan. You’ll see fishermen out early on the river and can step off to visit temples that have been standing for millennia. Cat suggests booking your trip as early as you can to secure the best cruise options, as November also marks the heart of the Nile cruise season. Ships begin filling up quickly, and it can be hard to reserve if you wait too long. But there's a good reason why cruising along the river, stopping at ancient temples between Luxor and Aswan and waking somewhere new each morning is still one of the best ways to experience Egypt. Top tip: She also loves Alexandria, describing the seafood there as “so exceptional [she'd] happily return just for another meal.” Array ( [0] => stdClass Object ( [content] => I personally go in November, so I always recommend that my clients aim to time their trip between September and April if they can. The weather is just perfect.... [name] => Cathine Williams [location] => HA Destination Manager, Egypt [text_color] => [quote_color] => [admin_label] => Item 1 ) ) “ I personally go in November, so I always recommend that my clients aim to time their trip between September and April if they can. The weather is just perfect.... Cathine Williams HA Destination Manager, Egypt ” The Egypt team Catherine Williams Ian Lowbridge Why we'd choose Egypt in November ✓ Comfortable temperatures for sightseeing ✓ Nile cruise season is in full swing ✓ Perfect for combining Cairo, Luxor and Aswan in one itinerary India in November Group of young friends sat on the beach, taken by HA expert Clare in Neeleshwar, 2026. With the monsoon out of the way, Rajasthan's well-known cities are pleasantly warm instead of stifling. It’s a good time to wander around Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Udaipur in your own time. If you’re picturing yourself exploring India, chances are you’re thinking of this season. The markets burst with colour, old forts look their finest, and family-run havelis open their doors to guests. The streets are full of life, but you can enjoy it all without the exhausting heat like in the earlier months. If you look beyond the main sights, you’ll have time to see village life, local customs, and really get to immerse yourself in everyday life in India. Instead of rushing between Jaipur's Amber Fort and the City Palace before temperatures climb, you can spend the afternoon wandering through bazaars, stopping for chai, chatting to local crafters and getting wonderfully distracted down streets that weren't on your itinerary. After her recent journey through Rajasthan, Clare's biggest recommendation wasn't a palace or a monument. Array ( [0] => stdClass Object ( [content] => Village life in Rajasthan is something people absolutely shouldn't miss. [name] => Clare Burkey [location] => HA Destination Manager, India [text_color] => [quote_color] => [admin_label] => Item 1 ) ) “ Village life in Rajasthan is something people absolutely shouldn't miss. Clare Burkey HA Destination Manager, India ” Our India expert Clare Burkey It's advice she now gives to almost every client because, while Rajasthan's forts and palaces are extraordinary, the best parts are often spent wandering through small villages, meeting local families, and seeing traditions continue exactly as they have for generations. November gives you the time and the temperatures to experience both. Why we'd choose India in November ✓ Comfortable temperatures for exploring Rajasthan's cities on foot ✓ Clear skies after the monsoon ✓ Time to properly immerse yourself in local life rather than escaping the heat Oman in November Taken by HA client Adrien, stood infront of the Grand mosque, 2026. November is a great time to get out and discover Oman. You might start your day climbing the old fort at Nizwa, head into the Hajar Mountains after lunch, and finish with dinner under the stars in the desert. The heat has eased off by November, so you can really make the most of your time outdoors. November is also a good month to visit before the Christmas rush. The weather is pleasant, and it’s usually easier to find space at the hotels you want, without the higher prices that come later in the year. If you’re after a trip that mixes culture, a bit of adventure and some comfort, November is a good time to go. Why we'd choose Oman in November ✓ Comfortable temperatures across the country ✓ Ideal conditions for deserts, mountains and historic towns ✓ Better availability and value before the festive season For incredible landscapes and scenery Japan in November Taken by HA expert Erin, in the Zen gardens in Arashiyama, 2026. Cherry blossom might dominate social media feeds, but ask our experts which season they'd personally choose, and autumn often wins. November is when much of Japan reaches peak colour. Temple gardens turn rich shades of red and gold, mountain valleys are full of autumn colour, and the walk between shrines feels extra special at this time of year. November is also a good time to take things a bit slower, and our expert, Erin, spoke about this a lot after her most recent trip to Japan, explaining why it's important to be mindful and slow down whilst you’re there to really reap the benefits. Read Erin's latest japan blog: Where to go in Japan besides Tokyo and Kyoto: Our expert's top recommendations Array ( [0] => stdClass Object ( [content] => Sakura is amazing, but there's so much more reason to travel outside of it. [name] => Erin Evans [location] => HA Destination Manager, Japan [text_color] => [quote_color] => [admin_label] => Item 1 ) ) “ Sakura is amazing, but there's so much more reason to travel outside of it. Erin Evans HA Destination Manager, Japan ” The Japan team Erin Evans Fenton The weather is cool and comfortable for exploring on foot, making it easy to wander through Kyoto’s temples, hike sections of the Nakasendo Way, or just enjoy a delicious bowl of ramen at the end of the day. It’s a lovely time to visit, not just for the scenery and colour, but for the comfortable pace and pleasant weather. Why we'd choose Japan in November ✓ Peak autumn colour across much of Japan ✓ Excellent walking weather ✓ One of the country's most photogenic months For nature and wildlife Chile in November HA Chile expert, Lou, with Gabs, who heads marketing, by the Chilean Lakes Chile never stays the same for long. Every time you visit, our expert Lou says you notice something different. Over the course of three weeks, our South America specialist Lou returned to Chile and travelled from the glaciers and granite peaks of Patagonia to volcanoes, salt flats and flamingo-filled lagoons in the Atacama Desert. She always says November is a brilliant time to make the journey. Array ( [0] => stdClass Object ( [content] => My personal favourite times are in the shoulder seasons in spring or autumn... it offers better value, it's quieter in most places, and generally it will still offer mostly great weather. [name] => Louise Mumford [location] => HA Destination Manager, Chile [text_color] => [quote_color] => [admin_label] => Item 1 ) ) “ My personal favourite times are in the shoulder seasons in spring or autumn... it offers better value, it's quieter in most places, and generally it will still offer mostly great weather. Louise Mumford HA Destination Manager, Chile ” Our Chile expert Louise Mumford Patagonia is just coming back to life after winter. The hiking trails are opening up again, wildlife is easier to spot, and you can enjoy the landscapes before the busy summer crowds. Lou describes Torres del Paine as: "Completely and utterly breath-taking... The photos will NEVER do justice to this amazing place." The moment she'll remember most, though, surprisingly wasn't the scenery. It was hiking through thorny scrub with local tracker Diego before finally spotting a female puma watching her from around fifty metres away. Then, as if that wasn't magical enough. A few days later, she saw a huge pod of dolphins leaping beside her as she cruised along in a zodiac, then she soaked in hot springs under the stars, and picked up the knack of drinking mate with local gauchos. These are the sorts of experiences you can expect from a trip designed for you by Lou in November . Why we'd choose Chile in November ✓ See Patagonia before peak season ✓ Longer daylight hours for exploring ✓ Excellent wildlife opportunities ✓ Better value than summer Argentina in November Caminito street in La Boca neighborhood of Buenos Aires November is a great time to get outside in Patagonia. Walking trails start to open up again, wildflowers pop up across the hillsides, and the days are long enough to really make the most of your time outdoors. If you head to the Atlantic coast, Peninsula Valdés is the place to watch orcas hunting close to shore. You’ll also see sea lions and plenty of penguins along the beaches at this time of year. In Buenos Aires, the city comes alive with locals heading to the parks, sitting out at cafés and browsing the neighbourhood markets in the spring sunshine. The nearby wine regions are also just starting their new season. (And if that isn’t an extra reason to visit, we don’t know what is!) If you’re looking to mix wildlife, scenery and a bit of local culture, November is a great month to visit before the summer crowds arrive. “This is a great time to be in the city for local life, especially around the parks, Recoleta and La Boca.” - Louise Mumford, HA destination manager. Why we'd choose Argentina in November ✓ Comfortable temperatures across the country ✓ Ideal conditions for deserts, mountains and historic towns ✓ Better availability and value before the festive season Costa Rica in November Taken by HA's Gabs, our Marketing Managerhead at Maquenque Eco Lodge in Boca Tapada If you’re thinking about Costa Rica, November is a lovely month to go. The landscapes are at their greenest after the rains, wildlife is easy to spot, and you’ll miss the busiest part of the season. You might find yourself watching howler monkeys from your lodge, spotting sloths tucked into the trees or waking up to the sound of birds in the cloud forest. Costa Rica always feels full of life at this time of year. Array ( [0] => stdClass Object ( [content] => We watched a family of howler monkeys in the trees right in front of our room for ages. Keep the patio doors shut or the coatis will come in! [name] => Dawn Smith [location] => HA Destination Manager, Costa Rica [text_color] => [quote_color] => [admin_label] => Item 1 ) ) “ We watched a family of howler monkeys in the trees right in front of our room for ages. Keep the patio doors shut or the coatis will come in! Dawn Smith HA Destination Manager, Costa Rica ” Our Costa Rica expert Dawn Smith It's exactly that unpredictability that makes a holiday to Costa Rica so exciting. One moment you're searching for sloths with your guide, and the next you're sipping coffee on your terrace while monkeys dance for you outside your window. Why we'd choose Costa Rica in November ✓ Wildlife is incredibly active ✓ Landscapes are lush and green ✓ Before peak visitor numbers arrive For adventure and local experiences Vietnam in November HA's Vietnam expert, Lisa, along the Thu Bon River Erin has been to Vietnam many times, but she always says November in Sapa is special. Not because of the glorious sunshine, but because the mist lifts and the mountains come into view. Array ( [0] => stdClass Object ( [content] => It's just magical in Sapa at this time of year. It's cool enough to head off trekking through the iconic landscapes without too many clouds rolling over the landscape and obscuring the views. It's right at the start of the high season, so you'll have no heat and humidity to contend with, no torrential rain, and it should be nicely quiet! [name] => Erin Evans [location] => HA Destination Manager, Vietnam [text_color] => [quote_color] => [admin_label] => Item 1 ) ) “ It's just magical in Sapa at this time of year. It's cool enough to head off trekking through the iconic landscapes without too many clouds rolling over the landscape and obscuring the views. It's right at the start of the high season, so you'll have no heat and humidity to contend with, no torrential rain, and it should be nicely quiet! Erin Evans HA Destination Manager, Vietnam ” The Vietnam team Erin Evans Lisa Jankus-Scott Fenton Lisa Dyboll And then once you've finished trekking? You can travel down south, and Vietnam completely changes its character and feel, so you can experience something quite different after your time in the mountains. It’s easy to take a short flight south and swap the cool mountain air for a few days by the warm sea. It’s a nice way to combine adventure and relaxation all in one trip. Why we'd choose Vietnam in November ✓ Fantastic trekking conditions around Sapa ✓ Clearer mountain views ✓ Easy to combine with beach time in southern Vietnam For a bit of downtime in the winter sun The Maldives in November Taken by HA's Maldives expert, Dodds (Rebecca), Sun Siyam Iru Veli If you're already travelling all the way to Sri Lanka, why rush home? November is a great month to add a few days in the Maldives to your Sri Lanka holiday. After exploring national parks, wandering through tea estates, visiting ancient sites and taking the train through the hills, a few days of proper downtime is a lovely way to round things off. The Maldives is only a short flight from Sri Lanka, but it feels like a different world. Instead of jungle and hills, you’ve got calm lagoons, white sand and the chance to snorkel straight from your villa. After lots of adventure, you can relax, read, swim and watch the sun set over the water each evening. November also marks the start of the Maldives' drier season. The weather is generally excellent, resorts are starting to prepare for the busier months, and you'll often have more choice than you would during the Christmas and New Year period. For most of our clients, we'd recommend the Maldives as the perfect post Sri Lanka escape. That said, if you've already explored Sri Lanka before, or you're simply craving a dedicated beach holiday, it also makes a wonderful standalone destination. Why we'd choose the Maldives in November ✓ A seamless add-on to a Sri Lanka itinerary ✓ Generally excellent weather as the drier season begins ✓ More choice before the festive peak ✓ The perfect balance of adventure followed by complete relaxation. Morocco in November HA expert, Doddsy (Rebecca), on a sidecar tour excursion in Marrakesh In Morocco this time of year, the summer heat has eased off, but it’s not yet winter, so you get mild days and clear skies. It’s a good month if you want a mixture. You might spend a morning exploring the souks in Marrakech, then head into the Atlas Mountains for a hike between crumbling Berber villages, and finish your trip by the Atlantic or out in the Sahara, where the nights are cool, and the skies are clear. There are also festivities nationwide this time of year as Morocco celebrates Independence Day on November 18th. Another plus for November is that, surprisingly, it’s quieter than October, so you can take your time in the cities and enjoy the mountain trails without the crowds. The weather is still on your side too, with plenty of sunshine and pleasant temperatures for getting out and about. Emma, our head of Trade (and previous Morocco expert!), has travelled to Morocco in November multiple times now and, in her words, it's “always 10/10”. “Morocco in November is like the Goldilocks of travel season: not too hot, not yet cold, and right after the crowds of peak October travel season. You still get lovely blue skies and sunshine right through the country, and it's the perfect temperature for hiking in the mountains, lounging by the coast, or exploring bustling cities.” - Emma Higgins, HA Head of Trade. There is such a wonderful variety in Morocco this time of year. Rather than choosing between cities, mountains, coast or desert, November gives you the option to combine them all into one beautifully balanced itinerary. What’s more, it’s your chance for a little drop of winter sunshine just a quick four hour flight from home. Why we'd choose Morocco in November ✓ Comfortable temperatures for exploring Morocco's cities on foot ✓ Warm sunshine along the coast without the summer crowds ✓ Fantastic conditions for hiking in the Atlas Mountains ✓ A great time to combine Marrakech, the mountains and the Sahara in one trip. So, where will November take you? There isn't one perfect place to travel in November. It really comes down to the kind of holiday you have in mind. Some people are tempted by Patagonia as spring arrives, others by the autumn colours in Japan, the walking trails in Vietnam or a classic journey along the Nile in Egypt. Wherever you end up, November is a good time to travel if you prefer things a little quieter. You can explore at your own pace, often before the busiest season starts. All of these suggestions have been thoughtfully hand-picked by our experts, and you will always get more than just a templated itinerary with us. You'll get tips that can only come from knowing a place like a local and honest, helpful advice from our HA experts who know their destinations like the back of their hands. If any of these places sound intriguing. Reach out today; our experts would love to chat with you to build a bespoke itinerary and personally design a trip tailored just to you. Where to go in November? Chat to one of our experts today and build a November trip that is perfect for you. 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24 July 2025
World's Best Mountains
Introducing: The International Mountain Awards
Things may have gotten a bit complicated again with travel recently, but we’re here to raise you up with the awards you never knew you needed. So, if you’re looking for summit to read this International Mountain Day… (sorry, we couldn’t help ourselves)… Look no further.
From elusive peaks through to iconic ones just waiting to be explored, our wonderful world is bursting to the brim with ranges.
1. The Award for the most Elusive Mountain goes to…
Mount Fuji, Japan
If ever a mountain was to be labelled ‘shy’, it’s Japan’s iconic, cone-shaped Mount Fuji. Keep an eye on the weather when planning your visit, but don’t hedge your bets too much. Even on a sunny day, Mount Fuji has been known to sneak behind cloud or the summer haze that rises off the lakes, often leaving visitors wanting more. There are some public webcams available though, so you can check just how elusive the mountain is feeling before making your day trip to catch a glimpse of this iconic Japanese symbol.
Try your luck at seeing it for yourself on this Japan getaway that gives you two nights in nearby Hakone
2. The Award for the most Lively Mountain goes to…
Arenal Volcano, Costa Rica
Although it’s currently snoozing, Arenal volcano is Costa Rica’s most active mountain. Up until 2010 it was erupting daily offering up an impressive show of bright red lava bubbling over the side of its cone-like crater. Despite being dormant though, Arenal is still Costa Rica’s adventure capital, with countless activities, stunning hiking trails and many natural hot springs to rest your weary adventure limbs in (it has its lively resident to thank for that!)
Experience Costa Rica’s adventure capital on this Costa Rica family holiday
3. The Award for the Most Remarkable Mountain goes to…
The Remarkables, New Zealand
Towering over the lakeside city of Queenstown in New Zealand, these remarkable mountains really do live up to their name. Regardless if you venture up them, they will provide a beautiful backdrop to your time in this part of the country. If you do choose to take a closer look, from the south-side of the mountains you’ll be treated to a staggering view of Queenstown. If you’re visiting New Zealand during the winter, and are a fan of the powdery white stuff, this mountain range is one of the best spots for skiing in the region.
Take in the beauty of New Zealand’s South Island on this South Island Scenic adventure
4. The Award for the Most Adventurous Mountain goes to…
Torres Del Paine – Chile / Argentina – Andes mountain
Wrap up warm when you visit Torres Del Paine, that place is Chile… (We’re not even sorry). The three impressive and towering granite peaks of Torres Del Paine alone are worth a visit to Chile’s most famous national park. But, a hike around this stunning display of natural beauty will see you uncovering lakes the colour of spearmint,
This Patagonia holiday will see you taking in the very best of Chile and Argentina
5. The Award for the Most Challenging Mountain goes to…
Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
If challenging yourself is top of your travel wish list for 2022, climbing to the top of Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro could be the mountain adventure for you. Frequently considered to be one of the greatest outdoor challenges on the planet, conquering Kilimanjaro could be the perfect excursion if you’re really looking to test yourself (and enjoy the experience of a lifetime of course!) A climb up to the ‘Roof of Africa’ will see you making your way up to 5,895 meters above sea level, take 6 to 8 gruelling days and a fair level of fitness. It’s said that only between 45 and 65% of people who take on the challenge actually make it to the top. But we’re certain that watching the sunrise over the horizon at the summit will be worth every step. Do you fancy your chances?
Climb Kilimanjaro on this active Tanzania adventure
6. The Award for the Most Iconic Mountain goes to…
El Capitan, Yosemite
The iconic, domineering granite wall of El Capitan is without doubt one of Yosemite’s most recognisable landmarks. There’s something truly magical about the light in Yosemite, it wraps around the vertical cliff faces of El Capitan and the Half Dome and is particularly beautiful early in the day when the morning mist gently coats the lush valley in a blue haze. If you really want to explore everything this staggering national park has on offer (including countless imposing mountains, wildflower meadows and plummeting waterfalls), we recommend staying for around three days, there’s just so much to see.
Uncover the Yosemite mountains for yourself and so much more on this 13 day National Parks Road Trip itinerary.
7. The Award for the most Bucket-List Ticking Mountain goes to…
The Rockies, Canada
A visit to the Canadian Rockies will treat you to awe-inspiring mountain valleys, endless icefields, flowing rivers, snow-capped peaks, pristine glaciers and boundless nature. Plus, this mountain range is home to the Rocky Mountaineer, a train ride that makes it on to almost every travel-lovers bucket list as something to experience at least once in a lifetime.
Ride the rails of the Rocky Mountaineer
8. The Award for the Most Wonder-Full Mountain goes to…
Andes Mountains, Peru – Machu Picchu
The lush, forested peaks of the Andes Mountains were hiding a fairly spectacular secret for quite some time. The ancient Incan city of Machu Picchu, now one of the seven wonders of the world (quite rightly), wasn’t rediscovered until 1911. Few mountains are home to an archaeological masterpiece quite like this. You can explore this Andes gem either under the steam of your own two feet, taking on the famous Inca trail, or you can opt for the more relaxed route and take the train up! Either way, this mountain’s secret empire is ready to wow.
Trek to Machu Picchu and explore Lima and Cusco on this Peru holiday itinerary
9. The Award for the Best Sandy Mountain goes to…
Dune 45, Namibia
We’re clutching at straws a little here we realise, but the impressive sand dunes of Namibia’s Namib Desert couldn’t not feature on our best mountainous roundup. The elegant curves, glowing colours and monstrous peaks of what some claim to be the world’s largest sand dunes contrast almost perfectly with the almost other-worldly ‘vleis’ that lurk in their shadows. Get there early to hike up the sandy peak before the crowds arrive. Seeing the sun gradually cast its golden glow over the vast plains of Sossusvlei is an experience not to be missed.
Uncover this sandy world for yourself on this Classic Namibia Self Drive holiday
23 July 2025
8 tempting holiday itineraries to make 2022 your biggest adventure yet
The year of your best adventure yet?
It’s that strange limbo period between Christmas and New Year where no-one really knows whether they’re coming or going. Should you keep the festive spirit alive and continue to reach for that leftover cheese, or are you itching to take the tree down, pack away the decorations and start thinking about your New Year’s resolutions?
Or maybe this bizarre stretch of time could be the perfect moment to sit down with your family or friends, hit pause and have a think about what holiday could really make 2022 one to remember. Perhaps an ultimate South-East Asia adventure has your name on it? Or maybe the emerald tea hills of Sri Lanka have always piqued your interest? We’re happy to help with…
8 of our favourite holiday ideas for 2022
(Remember, everything we do is tailor-made to you, so these itineraries are just suggestions to give you an idea of what is possible!)
1. South African Grand Tour
Mesmerising animal encounters, history, wine and incredible driving roads. Read more >
2. Active Costa Rica
Volcanoes, cloud forests and dramatic river valleys await on this Costa Rica adventure, perfect for those who like a hefty slice of adrenaline on their holidays… Read more >
3. Complete Patagonia
Explore the beautiful glaciers, lakes, forests and mountain peaks of Patagonia and encounter some spectacular wildlife, from penguins to elephant seals, whales and seabirds. Read more >
4. Marrakesh, Mountains and Ocean
Haggle in the souqs of Marrakesh, drink mint tea in remote mountain villages and stroll along dramatic battlements overlooking the Atlantic. Read more >
5. Grand Tour of Indochina
This itinerary covers the highlights of South East Asia. The temples of Angkor, laid-back Luang Prabang in Laos and Vietnam’s Hoi An, the hill tribes of Mai Chau, overnighting on a traditional junk in Halong Bay and cruising through the Mekong Delta from Vietnam in to Cambodia. Read more >
6. Luxury in The Maldives
The Maldives is the Indian Ocean’s most alluring archipelago with unrivalled luxury and an astonishing underwater world to explore. It’s also home to some of the softest, whitest sand around. Tempted? Read more >
7. Ultimate Sri Lanka
Ancient cities, stunning beaches, remote tea hills and wildlife-full safaris. Read more >
8. Classic Namibia Self Drive Adventure
Sweeping desert, wild coastline, rugged mountains and diverse wildlife await on this self-drive adventure… Read more >
As always, if you have any questions at all about your well-deserved adventure, our team are ready to take your call on 01242 253 073 . We are so happy to be back designing holidays for you, our fantastic clients again. Let’s make 2022 a year to remember, for good reasons this time!
Where to visit in Argentina
About Argentina
Argentina is a huge country, home to an incredibly rich mix of regions, each with its own identity and cultural heritage. From sensual Tango to the superb quality of beef and red wine, and the powerful waterfalls to the towering blue glaciers, there’s so much to see.
Frequently Asked Questions
Argentines are a proud and wonderful nation, with deeply ingrained traditions mixed with a plethora of immigrant influences, mainly from Europe. The gaucho is somewhat of an icon here, representing strength, resilience, endurance, and skill; venturing into the wilderness to meet them is a must. As you move away from the urban chic of the capital, the scenery becomes wilder and the landscapes more breathtaking, with the wildlife and culture taking centre stage.
The northern half of the country is home to the natural wonder of Iguazu Falls, located right on the border between Brazil and Paraguay. The surrounding Atlantic rainforest is inhabited by some truly unique wildlife species such as capybara, anteater, chinchilla and caiman. Nestled along the Andes are indigenous-speaking Quechua communities and adobe villages built by Spanish conquistadors, all dotted with deep canyons, giant cacti, and lush vineyards.
As you head further south, the tropical climate gives way to cooler temperatures with national parks filled with lakes, rivers, glaciers and granite peaks. The remote and rugged Atlantic coastline is scattered with colonies of marine mammals such as elephant seals, condors and penguins. And then you’ve got Cape Horn, the southernmost point of land before reaching the otherworldly landscapes of Antarctica.
Argentina is a destination that can be enjoyed all year-round. As a general guideline, we believe the best time to travel is between October and early May. As Argentina stretches from the tropics far down into the Southern Hemisphere, the weather patterns follow the opposite seasonal conditions found in Europe. Warmer summer months begin in November and extend into February, while the cooler winter months fall between June and August (a time when rainfall can also spike). Patagonia lodges tend to shut down from June to mid-October, with the exception of the ski resorts around Bariloche and San Martin.
If you’re looking to travel during the peak summer months of December, January, and February, you’ll need to make sure you book far in advance and it’s worth noting that at this time of year, prices are higher, rooms are often scarce, and the cities can feel quite crowded. These months also coincide with the local Argentine summer holidays, a time when locals jump at the opportunity to pack up and head off to explore their stunning country in droves.
Some more specific regional information:
Iguazu & Ibera: The climate here is generally hot and humid. Winter (June to August) is cooler, although the water level of the falls also tends to be lower. April or May are the best months to visit Iguazu for the most impressive water flow, thanks to the November to March showers. But, they’re still impressive all year round. In Ibera, summer (December to February) can be intensely hot, yet ideal to see migratory birds. Fall (March to June) is the low season for the region, and a particularly good time to travel, as the more timid wildlife emerges from hiding. Spring (September to November) is the wettest time of year, but it’s also breeding season, and the vegetation is lush, green and beautiful.
Salta & North-West: There’s a warm and dry climate here all year round. Winter and Spring (June to November) are the best times to travel. In winter, the rains are less frequent and the tropical temperature drops a few degrees (nights are downright cold, so you’ll want to pack layers!). In summertime, temperatures can rise above 40 degrees Celsius.
Mendoza: The wine region is beautifully sunny and dry for most of the year. November through April is the big draw when the vines are bursting and green. The “vendimia” or harvest festival is held annually on the first Saturday of March, well worth a visit if you can time it right. A visit in April and May will come with the added charm of beautiful autumn colours.
Peninsula Valdes: The peak time for wildlife spotting in Peninsula Valdes is between October and December. Southern right whales can be seen offshore between June and December, with sightings peaking in October. Orcas arrive between September and April, and are best spotted close to sealion colonies. Magellanic penguins nest from September to March, and vast colonies of sealions and elephant seals can be seen all year round, with breeding taking place between December and March.
Patagonia: October to April is the best time to visit Patagonia, with the busiest months being November to February. Temperatures can vary wildly from warm to almost freezing, even in summer. Spring blooms and autumn colours make the shoulder season months of October and April great choices for visiting. Be prepared for all seasons!
Argentine food is simple, fresh and full of flavour. There’s a wonderful range of mouth-watering regional staples on offer, as well as plenty of fine dining opportunities to rival the world’s best restaurants. When eating out in well-established restaurants and cafes, expect to pay lower prices to the UK, and even more affordable meals can be found in informal local restaurants and markets where the locals eat. We’re here to help you find them!
Food
The humble empanada, a cheese-based pastry filled with vegetables, meat or fish, is likely to feature heavily during your stay and is often served as a starter before dinner or as a snack. Argentines love an asado, a traditional barbeque where whole sides of meat are put on a giant rack and slow-grilled, often accompanied by chorizo sausage. Beef is, of course, ubiquitous here thanks to the tradition of cattle ranching, and it’s without doubt some of the best in the world. Further south, lamb is much more common and equally as good. South America might not be thought of as an easy food destination for vegetarians and vegans, but alternative choices are becoming easier to find. Thanks to European influences, Italian cuisine is popular here, so pasta dishes are well-prepared and delicious. The locals have a very sweet tooth, and ‘Dulce de Leche’, a sweet caramel made with milk, appears in lots of desserts. Ice-cream is a local obsession in Buenos Aires with parlours featuring a myriad of flavours found on every street corner, and afternoon tea wouldn’t be the same without ‘alfajores’, a type of shortbread biscuit sandwiched together with, you guessed it, dulce de leche.
Wine and more
Mendoza is a wine grower’s paradise, with sprawling, lush valleys aided by year-round warm temperatures and a low pest concentration. It produces the country’s most popular variety of wine using the Malbec grape, a delicious, rich and fruity red that goes so well with the excellent beef here. The vineyards are experimenting with other grape varieties, such as Bonarda, so there are plenty of interesting local discoveries to be tasted.
The high-altitude wineries further north, around Cafayate, also produce some excellent white wines, often based on Torrontes grape varieties. It’s not all about the wine, though; there are some great local beers brewed in this area, such as Quilmes. Maté is a local brew, rather like a bitter green tea, that you’ll see locals sipping from gourd-shaped mugs through a metal straw, especially up in the north-west. And, if you like fruit, then be sure to try a licuado – basically a fresh fruit milkshake.
Argentina is served by daily direct flights from London Heathrow to Buenos Aires with British Airways. If you’re visiting Iguazu Falls or combining a wine discovery journey of Mendoza with the Santiago Wine Valleys in Chile, then you could also choose to fly with British Airways direct to or from São Paulo and Santiago.
A host of airlines also fly into Buenos Aires via various European hubs, such as Madrid, Paris and Amsterdam, with LatAm offering routes via São Paulo in Brazil. Indirect flights can cost a little less, and they often take between 18 and 20 hours in total to reach Buenos Aires. As always, we’re here to help find the most convenient flight options for you.
If you’re a UK passport holder, you don’t require a visa to enter Argentina, provided you depart the country again within 90 days. Other nationalities should check entry requirements with their respective embassies. Passports need to be valid for the duration of your stay, and no further period of validity is required beyond the length of your trip.
You’ll be handed a ‘tourist card’ on arrival, which is extremely important to keep safe. Along with passports, the card may be requested when you check into each hotel, and are required to leave the country.
If you’re flying to Argentina via the USA, you’ll need to apply online for an ESTA electronic travel authorisation, even if you’re only in transit. This should be applied for on the official Department of Homeland Security website: https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta/
You should contact your GP before travelling to all destinations. We can provide some general guidelines; however, we’re not medically trained, so it’s really essential to speak to a medical professional well in advance of your trip:
Zika Virus: There is no known risk of Zika in Argentina.
Yellow fever certificate: if you are arriving from countries with yellow fever, you may be asked to produce a certificate of vaccination against the disease.
General: It’s recommended that your general boosters for Diphtheria, Polio, Tetanus and Hepatitis A are up-to-date before travel. We recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance as soon as you have booked your holiday and declare any pre-existing medical conditions to your insurer – some may be able to provide cover for an additional premium.
While Argentina enjoys low levels of crime, you should exercise caution in larger cities as you would in any capital city and take a taxi back to your hotel after dark. You can also check the UK Foreign & Commonwealth Office website for the latest advice before you travel.
Horse riding in Argentina
Horse riding can be a wonderful way to enjoy Argentina’s landscapes, but there are inherent risks involved with riding anywhere in the world. Traditional cattle ranches are common, where you can ride out with the gauchos, who, of course, are a proud and hardy bunch who don’t wear helmets when they ride. Polo is also a popular sport here, although helmets are usually worn, even by professionals. Wearing a helmet is highly recommended for your own safety – ask your guide if they are not automatically offered, or consider taking your own if you have an extended stay at a riding estancia for a few days.
Argentina is one of the most developed, stylish and safe countries to explore in Latin America. Generally, prices are largely lower at the moment than what you’d expect to pay in the UK, but some remote regions, such as Patagonia and Peninsula Valdes, can be a little more expensive. The preferred currency is the Argentine Peso ($ARS) with notes of varying denominations coming in multiples of $2 to $1000 (ARS).
It can be difficult to exchange £GBP in remote areas, but ATMs and money exchange facilities are widely available in towns and cities. If you do decide to take some cash, it’s better to take it in USD rather than GBP. Warnings about ATM scarcity are no exaggeration in some rural locations. In Patagonia, for example, even some of the smaller airports don’t have ATMs. If you are eating at your hotel’s restaurant, it’s usually worth charging your bill to your room, as payments made in $USD are often exempt from taxes for foreigners and can be settled by credit card.
While tipping is appreciated, it’s not expected in Argentina as fiercely as it is in other areas of the continent. It’s worth checking your bill in restaurants before paying, as guideline tips of 10% are occasionally already included.
We believe travel should be a force for good. That means exploring with open eyes, treading lightly, and respecting the people and places that make the world so special. Our code of conduct isn’t about rules, it’s simply a guide to help you travel thoughtfully, ethically, and with care. Because every small choice makes a big difference.
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If you choose to trust us with your holiday, we’ll send you a “Travel Facts” document when confirming your booking. This includes useful facts and travel advice, such as restaurant recommendations, reading tips, basic language information, cultural traditions, climate information, brief historical overviews, and more. We feel that this offers a useful insight and can help you interact with local residents in a more sensitive, well-informed manner. Please do try to take the time to read this information before your visit, it’s worth the time!
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A number of the countries in which we operate holidays are religious societies with a widely observed set of customs. Always respect these norms, particularly when visiting religious buildings.
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To the best of our knowledge, all hotels, lodges, and camps within our portfolio operate stringent measures to minimise water usage. All of our destinations have issues with water supplies to a certain extent, so feel free to raise any possible wastage should you encounter it during your stay, either with the accommodation or with us upon your return.
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Please ask permission before taking photographs of people, and respect their wishes if they are not happy to be photographed. We find that friendly requests and a smile are usually met with a ‘yes!’
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Strive, where possible, to make your own contribution to environmental practices as you travel. This might include minimising your electricity usage, not smoking in protected areas, avoiding coral while snorkelling, and safely disposing of all litter (recycling where possible).
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Where possible, try to purchase from local suppliers. This includes shopping for souvenirs, dining out at restaurants, and booking additional excursions during your free time. In areas where haggling is an accepted part of daily life, don’t be offended if you’re unable to obtain what you perceive as a fair price for an item.
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We emphasise to local suppliers that our clients should never be taken on unsolicited shopping trips, but if this does happen, try to retain your sense of humour, provide a firm refusal to participate and do let us know about it on your return. We pass on all feedback from every trip undertaken with us to our relevant local suppliers, who all share our commitment to travelling with sensitivity.
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Please don’t remove any indigenous items from their natural habitat and attempt to bring them home as a souvenir. This particularly applies to everything from coral, shells, plants and food in the natural world, to cultural artefacts and antiques.
If you’re unsure about anything relating to the above, please feel free to chat to us. Our Argentina experts have travelled extensively in the country and will be more than happy to offer their considered advice.
Meet our Argentina expert
We offer tailor-made holidays to suit a wide range of tastes. Our expert Louise is dedicated to all things Argentina and is here to help you plan your perfect trip.
What You're Saying
“
Holiday Architects, and in particular Louise, did a fantastic job organising our trip to South America. It was clear from our initial discussions that she has a detailed first-hand knowledge of the countries that we were planning to visit. Her help was invaluable in planning the trip to take in all of the places that we wanted to explore.
Peter & Julie
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“
Finally I've got to write about our best holiday in our lives. Louise arranged everything according to our brief and listened from the first phone call. We loved Argentina and the service from Holiday Architects was impeccable. We thank Louise for making this holiday truly amazing and we are looking forward to work with her on our next trip.
E Grange
”
“
We had almost 4 weeks in Argentina and Chile, mostly walking and cycling iconic trails, but also with city and wildlife visits. Holiday Architects arranged all the flights, accommodation, transfers, car hire, guides and local reps. All worked faultlessly, and every single day surpassed expectations (and we had high expectations). Both Patagonia, and HA highly recommended.
Ross
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Louise has been phenomenal in planning and organising our holiday to Argentina as well as looking after us whilst there. Louise spoke to us over the phone to understand what we liked and preferences around travel, hotels etc. She suggested places we’re so glad we went – particularly the Salta region which was a revelation. All the flights, transfers and guides were organised and worked seamlessly. The hotels were great - mostly smaller boutique establishments and beautiful wineries. We now have a taste for Argentina and South America and will definitely use Holiday Architects again. Thank you Louise for making such a memorable holiday for us.
Steve Girdler
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From the very first contact with Holiday Architects our experience has been flawless. Louise was our holiday planner for our 3 week trip to Argentina and we could not have asked for a better person. Louise is extremely knowledgeable about Argentina and her enthusiasm made the planning stage so much fun. A tailor made holiday is a more expensive option but it was very clear to us where our money had been spent and we visited places we’d never have thought about had we planned the trip ourselves. Overall, we were blown away by our trip to Argentina thanks to Louise and Holiday Architects. We would not hesitate to recommend them and we look forward to booking again.
Joanna Booth
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Wonderful trip to Argentina. I asked Louise to design a holiday travelling from Mendoza through Salta across the Andes to the Atacama by road with a private guide – not a trip they have offered before. It all worked perfectly, we saw some beautiful places and had two terrific guides. Attention to detail was excellent throughout and thoroughly recommend this company.
Peter Gallop
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Argentina Express, Classic Patagonia, Northern Argentina, Wildlife of Argentina

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