Southern Argentina Travel Guide
Southern Argentina is a region of striking contrasts, where arid plateaus meet icy peaks, and windswept coastlines stretch beside tranquil plains. South of the Río Colorado lies Patagonia, a vast and captivating landscape largely protected by national parks and nature reserves. While winters can bring harsh, freezing temperatures, the summer months offer a more welcoming climate, making it the preferred season for most visitors.
Patagonia is far more than a land of ice and rock. Northern parts of the region contain fertile valleys where apples, pears, and other crops thrive, while beneath the surface lie some of Argentina's most significant oil and gas reserves. Wildlife is abundant, and much of the region remains untouched, promising travellers a sense of raw, natural beauty that is increasingly rare.
On the Atlantic coast, the town of Las Grutas in Río Negro province is one of the area's most popular beach destinations. Known for its sheltered shores and relatively warm waters, it holds a pleasant surprise in a part of the country not typically associated with seaside getaways. The name, meaning 'The Caves', comes from the natural rock formations scattered along the coastline. Visitors can sunbathe, swim or enjoy a variety of water sports in this scenic setting.
The southern coast is also a haven for marine life. Whales, sea lions, elephant seals and penguins are commonly seen, particularly around the Valdés Peninsula, a renowned hotspot for wildlife watching. The skies are equally lively, filled with seabirds and migratory species that flock to the region each year.
Continuing further south brings travellers to Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world. Located on the island of Tierra del Fuego, which Argentina shares with Chile, Ushuaia is often the starting point for voyages to Antarctica. Yet the city and its surroundings offer much more than a departure port. Adventurers can hike in the foothills of the Andes, kayak along remote channels, fish for world-class brown trout, or explore Tierra del Fuego National Park, the only coastal national park in Argentina.
Southern Argentina may be remote, but it has a wealth of experiences for those willing to make the journey. With its dramatic landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and sense of vastness, it continues to reward curious and adventurous travellers.