In Argentina, cash is still very useful. Some places offer small discounts for cash payments, and in more remote areas, credit cards may not always be accepted. ATMs may also have limited cash availability, and they only dispense local currency, not US dollars. For this reason, we recommend bringing approximately one-third to half of your expected spending money in cash.
In Chile, cash discounts are less common, credit cards are widely accepted, and ATMs are easy to find in most places. Carrying a small amount of cash is usually enough.
In Peru, we recommend carrying more cash, especially for purchases at local and artisan markets and when visiting smaller towns or remote areas where ATMs may not always be available.
In Argentina, we recommend bringing US dollars rather than euros, as they are easier to exchange and generally offer a better exchange rate. In Chile and Peru, both US dollars and euros can be easily exchanged.
The so-called “Blue Dollar” still exists, although it is much less relevant today than it was a few years ago.
The Blue Dollar refers to the informal or unofficial exchange rate—the rate at which US dollars are bought and sold outside the authorized banking system. For many years, it was widely used due to restrictions on access to the official foreign exchange market.
Today, Argentina’s currency exchange market is much more flexible, and international travelers can easily use foreign credit cards, withdraw local currency from ATMs, or exchange money at authorized banks and exchange offices.
It is generally better to exchange money at authorized currency exchange offices in the city, as airports usually offer less favorable exchange rates and may charge higher fees.
At ANDA Travel, we provide 24/7 assistance throughout your trip. You’ll always have a real person from our team available via WhatsApp to help with any questions or unexpected situations, coordinate reservations, assist with online check-in, or simply recommend great places to enjoy during your stay.
Your local host will be there not only when something unexpected comes up, but also to take care of the small details that can make a big difference to your travel experience.
We’re with you every step of the way. That peace of mind is an essential part of the ANDA Travel experience and one of the things that sets us apart.
On domestic flights within Argentina, checked baggage allowance varies depending on the airline and the fare you have purchased. A common allowance is 15 kg (33 lb) per passenger, but some fares may include a different allowance or no checked baggage at all. Size restrictions also apply and may vary by airline.
If you need to travel with additional weight, you have several options:
Purchase additional baggage in advance. It is usually cheaper to add baggage online before your flight than to pay for it at the airport.
Pay for excess baggage at the airport. This is normally possible, although fees are usually higher.
Distribute the weight between passengers if you are traveling as a group, as long as the airline’s baggage conditions allow it.
Important: baggage policies vary by airline and fare type, so always check exactly what is included in your ticket before traveling.
If you arrive in Buenos Aires with a 23 kg (50 lb) suitcase and then plan to travel around Argentina, we recommend bringing a smaller bag for your domestic trips and leaving your larger suitcase at your Buenos Aires hotel, when possible. Many itineraries begin and end in Buenos Aires, making this a convenient way to travel lighter and avoid excess baggage fees.
No. Trekking poles are generally not allowed in carry-on baggage by most airlines, including LATAM and Aerolíneas Argentinas. They must be packed in your checked baggage.
The good news is that many airlines accept trekking poles as special baggage or allow them as part of your checked baggage allowance at no additional cost, as long as you comply with the applicable weight and size limits.
We recommend checking your airline’s specific baggage policy before your flight, as rules may vary. If you are traveling with telescopic trekking poles, make sure they are properly protected and securely packed inside your suitcase or a sturdy bag.
In general, yes. Cameras, lenses, and photography accessories can usually be carried in your hand luggage, as long as your backpack or bag complies with the airline’s size and weight restrictions. These limits vary depending on the airline and fare, so we recommend checking them before your flight.
If you are traveling with a large amount of equipment, such as multiple lenses, tripods, or drones, you may need to check some items or purchase additional baggage. Tripods, in particular, may need to be checked depending on their size and the airline’s regulations.
Our recommendation: always keep your most valuable and irreplaceable equipment, such as your camera body and lenses, with you in the cabin whenever possible. Any equipment placed in checked baggage should be carefully protected.
Yes. Most hotels offer luggage storage, either free of charge or for a small fee. This is very common for our travelers who leave Buenos Aires to explore other destinations in Argentina and then return to the city before their international flight home.
At ANDA Travel, we always coordinate luggage storage with the hotel when making the reservation, so everything is arranged in advance and there are no surprises.
Every journey with ANDA starts with a conversation. We don’t offer fixed packages or one-size-fits-all itineraries. Instead, we design each trip around what you enjoy, what you want to experience, and how much time you have.
The process is simple: you tell us about your interests, travel dates, budget, and the kind of trip you have in mind. We like to get to know our travelers and for you to get to know us too, which is why we always recommend a virtual meeting—and even better with cameras on so we can meet face to face! We’ll ask the right questions to understand what you’re really looking for and then create a personalized proposal for you.
We work person to person: no automated responses, no bots, and no impersonal processes. Behind every inquiry, there is a real member of our team ready to listen, advise, and help you plan your journey.
From our first conversation until you return home, you’ll have a team that knows the destinations, gives you honest advice, and is there to support you before, during, and after your trip.
Here’s how the process works, from the moment you contact ANDA Travel until your trip is confirmed:
1. First contact: Everything starts through whichever channel is most convenient for you. You can contact us through our website, WhatsApp, or email. From that first message, one of our travel advisors will get in touch with you to start planning your trip.
Website: www.andatravel.com.ar
WhatsApp: +54 911 3939 9147
Email: info@andatravel.com.ar
2. Travel consultation: We’ll arrange a short call or video call to get to know you better. We want to understand the kind of trip you’re imagining, your interests, how much time you have, and which destinations you would like to visit.
This is also a great opportunity for us to tell you more about each destination, answer your questions, and recommend the best options according to your travel style.
3. Personalized itinerary proposal: Based on everything we discussed, your travel advisor will create a fully customized first proposal. Every itinerary is designed from scratch, combining experiences, accommodations, transportation, and activities selected especially for you.
4. Adjustments and confirmation: We work together on the itinerary, making any necessary changes until it reflects exactly the trip you are looking for and you are completely happy with it before we move forward with the reservations.
5. Payment and documentation: Once the itinerary is confirmed, we’ll request the necessary documentation, mainly the passports of all
Sustainability is not something we simply add at the end: it is part of the way we design every journey from the very beginning.
Some of the concrete actions we take include:
Hotel selection: We work with accommodations that follow verifiable sustainability practices, including efficient use of energy and water, responsible waste management, and strong connections with local communities.
Local suppliers: We prioritize local tour operators, guides, restaurants, and transportation companies, helping generate a direct positive economic impact in the communities our travelers visit.
Travel beyond mass tourism: Whenever possible, we include experiences and destinations away from the most crowded tourist routes, helping distribute the impact and benefits of tourism more evenly.
Reducing single-use plastics: We minimize disposable materials in our programs and encourage more sustainable alternatives whenever possible.
Native forest in Patagonia: For several years, we have supported the development of a native forest in Argentine Patagonia as part of our commitment to offsetting the carbon footprint generated by our activities.
Carbon neutral initiatives: We can measure and offset the carbon footprint of events and corporate travel, connecting companies with environmental offset projects aligned with their values.
Absolutely! Honeymoons are some of our favorite trips to design. They deserve special attention to every detail, and that is exactly what we do.
Some of our most popular honeymoon destinations in South America include:
Argentine and Chilean Patagonia: Perfect for couples looking for breathtaking landscapes, adventure, and privacy. Torres del Paine, El Chaltén, or an exclusive lodge surrounded by Patagonian scenery can make for a truly unforgettable honeymoon.
Mendoza and Chile: A wonderful combination of wine, mountains, and exceptional cuisine, with the option of crossing the Andes to Santiago de Chile and continuing to the Pacific coast.
Peru: The combination of Lima, with its incredible food and culture, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu creates a romantic and unforgettable journey.
Uruguay: Punta del Este, José Ignacio, and the thermal springs in northern Uruguay offer a more intimate and relaxed honeymoon, ideal for couples looking for less crowded destinations.
Brazil: The beaches of Bahia or Florianópolis are perfect for a tropical escape, while the Pantanal offers an entirely different experience for couples who love wildlife and nature.
Tell us how you imagine your honeymoon, and we’ll design it together.
Yes. Group travel has been one of ANDA Travel’s specialties since the very beginning. Since 2008, we have organized experiences for all kinds of groups, including companies, universities, religious institutions, NGOs, groups of friends, and more.
We operate as a local DMC in Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, Brazil, and Peru, with dedicated coordinators in each destination. Whether you are traveling with a group of 10 people or organizing a conference for 200, we design every experience around the group’s specific needs and objectives.
To learn more about everything we offer for groups, including corporate, academic, special-interest travel, and more, visit our Group Travel section. [ADD LINK]
No problem at all. When designing your itinerary, we take note of all your dietary preferences and restrictions—vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, kosher, food allergies, or any other special requirements—and communicate them in advance to the hotels, restaurants, and local operators involved in your trip.
In Buenos Aires, Santiago, Lima, and other major cities, there is an excellent variety of plant-based and special-diet options. In more remote destinations, we make sure suitable alternatives are available and coordinate everything in advance whenever necessary, so you can enjoy your meals without any surprises.
It depends on the hotel you choose. Many of the hotels we work with offer spa and wellness services, and we can arrange a massage in advance so it is already booked when you arrive, allowing you to relax after a long international flight without having to worry about anything.
If having a spa or wellness facilities is important to you, just let us know and we’ll take it into consideration when selecting your accommodation.
At ANDA Travel, we avoid large-group shared tours because we want the experience to feel more personal. Group sizes vary depending on the activity and destination, but the shared tours we include in our itineraries are generally small groups, with a maximum of around 15 to 20 travelers. We stay away from large 40-passenger tour buses.
If you prefer complete privacy, we can also arrange all your excursions on a private basis, with a dedicated guide exclusively for your party. It is a higher investment, but the experience is completely different: you set the pace, you have more flexibility with stops, and your guide’s attention is entirely focused on you.
Yes, we work with several cruise operators throughout the region. Some of the most popular options include:
Patagonia and Southern Channels cruises: Sail through the spectacular landscapes of southern Chile and Argentina, with routes connecting destinations such as Puerto Montt, Puerto Natales, and Ushuaia. These journeys offer incredible views of glaciers, fjords, wildlife, and some of the most remote landscapes at the end of the world. We work with operators such as Navimag and Australis.
Antarctica cruises from Ushuaia: For adventurous travelers, Antarctica is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. There are different itineraries available depending on the number of days, type of expedition, and budget.
River cruises in the Pantanal and the Amazon: A completely different way to experience South America, combining navigation with wildlife, nature, and remote landscapes.
A cruise can easily be incorporated as part of a longer tailor-made itinerary. If this is something you’re interested in, just let us know when you contact us and we’ll recommend the best options for your trip.
At Anda Travel we do not sell travel insurance. We do strongly recommend our clients to purchase a all-round insurance in their home country before traveling to South America.
Yes, both options are available. There are overland and air connections between Argentina and Chile.
If you have limited time, flying is usually the best option. There are regular flights connecting Buenos Aires or Mendoza in Argentina with Santiago de Chile, as well as flights connecting Patagonia with southern Chile.
If you have more time, crossing the Andes by land can be a beautiful journey and part of the adventure itself. Some of the most popular overland routes are from El Calafate, Argentina, to Puerto Natales, Chile, the gateway to Torres del Paine National Park, and from Mendoza to Santiago de Chile.
It depends greatly on the time of year and the destinations you are visiting.
Summer (November to March):
Buenos Aires and Santiago: Summers can be very hot, with temperatures sometimes reaching 40°C (104°F). We recommend lightweight clothing and comfortable, breathable shoes.
Patagonia: Temperatures are cooler and can change significantly throughout the day. If you are planning to go trekking, we recommend dressing in layers, including thermal clothing, a fleece, and a windproof jacket.
Northwestern Argentina and Northern Chile: Days can be very hot, while temperatures drop considerably at night. Bring lightweight clothing for daytime and warm layers for the evenings.
Peru: Along the coast, including Lima, temperatures are generally mild. In Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu, days are usually pleasant and nights can be cool. We recommend lightweight clothing during the day and a warm layer for the afternoon and evening.
Iguazú: The climate is hot and humid, with frequent rainfall. We recommend lightweight clothing, comfortable shoes that can get wet, a light rain jacket, insect repellent, and sunscreen.
Winter (June to September):
Buenos Aires and Santiago: Temperatures are cool, particularly in the mornings and evenings. We recommend long pants, closed-toe shoes, sweaters or warm layers, and a jacket.
Patagonia: Winters are cold and can be very windy. Dressing in layers is essential. Bring thermal clothing, a fleece, a waterproof or windproof jacket, a hat, gloves, and waterproof or trekking shoes.
Northwestern Argentina and Northern Chile: Days are often sunny and pleasant, but nights can be very cold. Pack lightweight clothing for daytime and warm layers for the evenings.
Peru: In Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu, winter is the dry season, with mild days and very cold nights. Lima remains cool and humid, so a light jacket is recommended.
Iguazú: Winter is generally very pleasant, with mild days and cooler evenings. Lightweight clothing is suitable during the day, with a sweater or light jacket for the evening.
Entry requirements, in addition to having a valid passport, depend on the traveler’s nationality. The good news is that Argentina, Chile, Peru, Uruguay, and Brazil are generally very accessible destinations for international travelers.
In Argentina, citizens of many countries can enter for tourism without a visa, generally for stays of up to 90 days. Travelers from certain countries, however, must obtain a visa in advance.
For Brazil, visa requirements also depend on nationality. Travelers from some countries may be required to obtain an electronic visa (e-Visa), while citizens of Mercosur and many other countries are exempt from tourist visas for short stays.
Chile, Peru, and Uruguay also have relatively accessible entry policies for international tourists, although requirements vary depending on citizenship.
Because immigration and visa regulations can change, we always recommend checking the latest requirements with the official consulate or embassy of each country well in advance of your trip. And of course, at ANDA Travel, we are always happy to guide you through the process.
In general, vaccination requirements depend on the traveler’s country of origin, recent travel history, and the areas they plan to visit. Even when a vaccine is not required for entry, some vaccinations may be recommended.
Argentina: There are generally no mandatory vaccinations for most tourists. Routine vaccinations should be up to date. Yellow fever vaccination may be recommended for travelers visiting certain northern areas, including the Iguazú region.
Chile and Uruguay: There are generally no mandatory vaccination requirements for most travelers. Keeping routine vaccinations up to date is recommended.
Peru: Vaccinations are generally not required for most tourists, but yellow fever vaccination may be recommended for travelers visiting certain Amazon and jungle regions. Other vaccines may also be recommended depending on your itinerary.
Brazil: Yellow fever vaccination may be recommended for travelers visiting certain regions, particularly Amazon and other risk areas. Entry requirements can also vary depending on your country of origin and recent travel history.
Health and entry requirements can change, so we always recommend checking the latest official requirements and consulting a travel medicine specialist before your trip, especially if your itinerary includes jungle, Amazon, or rural areas.
This is an important topic to consider, and conditions vary from country to country. Here are some things you should know:
Argentina and Chile: Both are very large countries, with long distances between destinations. In some remote areas, roads may not be well signposted and mobile phone coverage can be limited for many kilometers. Driving times between destinations can also be very long, sometimes requiring many hours on the road. For this reason, we generally do not recommend renting a car to travel long distances across the country.
However, there are certain destinations where having a car can be a great option. In Bariloche, for example, it gives you the freedom to explore the Seven Lakes Route at your own pace. In Chile, renting a car can also be very convenient for Torres del Paine, allowing you to travel from Puerto Natales and explore the park’s extensive network of roads independently.
Peru: Many roads are winding and mountainous, while the country offers good train and private transportation options for the main tourist routes. For this reason, we generally do not recommend renting a car.
Brazil: Driving can be challenging, particularly around major cities such as Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, where traffic can be very heavy. We usually recommend private or shared transportation instead of renting a car.
If you still prefer to rent a car, you will generally need:
A valid passport.
Your original driver’s license from your home country, not a digital version.
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended and may be required by some rental companies, especially if your license is not written in Latin characters. It should be obtained in your home country before traveling.
A credit card in the driver’s name, which is usually required for the security deposit.
The minimum age is generally 21 or 25, depending on the rental company and vehicle category.
One practical tip: if you plan to drive on gravel roads or in remote areas of Patagonia, rental companies may have specific requirements regarding vehicle type and insurance coverage for unpaved roads. Always check the rental agreement and insurance conditions carefully before driving.
At ANDA Travel, we can arrange car rentals with trusted local operators throughout our destinations and advise you on the most suitable vehicle according to your itinerary.
Nowadays, there are three main options, each with its own advantages:
1 - eSIM (our recommended option): An eSIM is a virtual SIM that you install on your phone, usually by scanning a QR code, without having to replace your physical SIM card. You can purchase it online before leaving home and have it ready to activate when you arrive. There are country-specific plans as well as regional eSIMs that cover Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, Brazil, and Peru under a single plan. Popular providers include Holafly, Airalo, and similar services. Make sure your phone supports eSIM technology before purchasing one.
2 - Local SIM card: Once you arrive, you can purchase a prepaid SIM card from a local mobile provider. They are usually affordable, although you will need to replace your physical SIM card while using it.
3 - International roaming: You can activate international roaming with your current mobile provider. This is usually the most convenient option, but it can also be the most expensive. We recommend checking your provider’s international rates before traveling.
Our recommendation: If your phone supports eSIM technology, it is usually the easiest and most practical solution. You can purchase it before your trip, activate it in just a few minutes, and have internet access as soon as you arrive.
Each South American country has its own standard, so we recommend bringing a universal travel adapter.
Argentina: Type I plugs (three flat pins in a V shape) and Type C plugs (two round pins). Voltage: 220V, 50Hz.
Chile: Types C and L. Voltage: 220V, 50Hz.
Uruguay: Types C, I, F, and L. Voltage: 220V, 50Hz.
Peru: Types A, B, and C. Voltage: 220V, 60Hz.
Brazil: Type N is the official standard. Voltage varies depending on the city or region, with both 127V and 220V in use, so make sure to check before plugging in your devices.
Most modern laptop, phone, and camera chargers support dual voltage (100–240V), which means you will usually only need a plug adapter rather than a voltage converter. Check the information printed on your charger before traveling.
Our recommendation: bring a universal travel adapter and a compact multi-outlet power strip. It’s a practical solution when traveling through several South American countries.
In Argentina, tipping is not mandatory, but it is customary and greatly appreciated when you receive good service.
At restaurants, it is common to leave approximately 10% of the total bill. Tips are generally not included in the bill and can be left in cash or, at many establishments, added to your credit card payment.
It is also customary to tip tour guides, drivers, hotel porters, and other service providers. The amount is up to each traveler and usually depends on the length of the activity and the quality of the service received.
You have plenty of destinations to choose from! South America has an incredible and wonderfully diverse food scene.
Buenos Aires is undoubtedly one of the region’s great culinary destinations. You can enjoy everything from a legendary neighborhood parrilla to some of Latin America’s top restaurants, alongside an exciting and constantly evolving contemporary food scene. Palermo, San Telmo, and Núñez are some of the neighborhoods worth exploring.
Lima, Peru, is internationally recognized as one of the world’s great food cities. Peruvian cuisine has an extraordinary identity and diversity, with dishes such as ceviche, causa, lomo saltado, and cuy, as well as fascinating Nikkei and Chifa influences. Restaurants such as Central, Maido, and Astrid y Gastón have helped put Lima firmly on the global culinary map.
Santiago de Chile has a growing and dynamic food scene, with markets such as Mercado Central, neighborhoods like Lastarria and Barrio Italia, and a new generation of chefs creatively showcasing Chilean ingredients and local products.
Mendoza brings together two of Argentina’s greatest pleasures: food and wine. You’ll find wineries with outstanding restaurants, vineyard lunches surrounded by the Andes, wine tastings, and excellent local ingredients.
If food is one of your priorities when traveling, at ANDA Travel we can design a foodie-focused itinerary with restaurant reservations and special experiences at local markets, wineries, and with local producers.
Without exaggeration, this region offers some of the best trekking in the world. Here are some of our favorite destinations:
Torres del Paine (Chile): The W Trek and the full circuit are iconic experiences, with glaciers, turquoise lakes, wildlife, and the impressive granite peaks of the Torres. Reservations should be made several months in advance, especially during the high season.
El Chaltén (Argentina): Known as Argentina’s trekking capital, El Chaltén offers an incredible network of trails with spectacular views of Mount Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre. There are options for different fitness and experience levels. More broadly, the combination of El Calafate, El Chaltén, and Torres del Paine is one of Patagonia’s great trekking adventures.
Inca Trail (Peru): The classic four-day trek ending at Machu Picchu is a unique experience that combines spectacular landscapes with history and archaeology. Permits are limited, so booking well in advance is essential.
Tell us about your trekking experience, how many days you have, and the type of landscapes you enjoy, and we’ll design the ideal itinerary for you.
Machu Picchu has two distinct seasons:
Dry season (May to October): This is generally the best time to visit, with clearer skies, better trail conditions, and excellent light for photography. June, July, and August are the busiest months, so if you prefer good weather with fewer visitors, May or September and October can be great alternatives.
Rainy season (November to March): Expect more rain, but also greener, more lush landscapes and fewer tourists. January and February are usually the rainiest months. The classic Inca Trail traditionally closes during February for annual maintenance.
How much time should you spend there? Machu Picchu itself deserves at least one full day, but to enjoy the experience without rushing, including the journey from Cusco, we recommend allowing at least two days for the Machu Picchu and Aguas Calientes area. If you choose the classic Inca Trail, the traditional trek takes four days.
Cusco, located at approximately 3,400 meters (11,150 feet) above sea level, also deserves at least two days to acclimatize and explore the city and the Sacred Valley. For a complete Cusco and Machu Picchu experience, we recommend a minimum of five days.
Absolutely! Birdwatching is one of our specialties, and the region offers extraordinary biodiversity. We work with specialized birding and ornithological guides in each destination.
Some of our favorite birdwatching destinations include:
Iberá (Corrientes, Argentina): One of South America’s most important wetlands, home to capybaras, marsh deer, caimans, and more than 350 species of birds.
Patagonia: A fantastic region for spotting Andean condors, flamingos, Magellanic penguins in Punta Tombo, and a wide variety of seabirds around Península Valdés.
Misiones (Atlantic Forest): An incredibly biodiverse subtropical forest where you can spot toucans, vinaceous-breasted amazons, strange-tailed tyrants, and many other unique species.
Pantanal (Brazil): One of the world’s largest tropical wetlands, with an extraordinary concentration of birds and wildlife that is difficult to match anywhere else on the planet.
Manu or Tambopata (Peru): The Peruvian Amazon is a world-class birdwatching destination, with exceptional biodiversity and an impressive number of recorded bird species.
Tell us about your birdwatching experience, the species you are most interested in, and how much time you have, and we’ll design the ideal program for you.
These two regions share the same Andes mountain range, but each has a very different character.
Argentine Lake District (Bariloche, Villa La Angostura, San Martín de los Andes): It has a well-developed tourism infrastructure, with an excellent selection of hotels and restaurants, as well as a distinctive Central European architectural influence often associated with Patagonia’s Alpine style. It is an excellent destination for skiing in winter and for trekking, kayaking, and outdoor activities during the warmer months.
Chilean Lake District (Pucón, Villarrica, Puerto Varas, Frutillar): The landscape is more volcanic, and Mapuche culture has a strong presence throughout the region. The Villarrica and Osorno volcanoes dominate the scenery, while Puerto Varas and Frutillar reflect the influence of 19th-century German settlers. The region has a more rural and nature-focused atmosphere.
Ideally, we recommend combining both. You can cross the Andes between Argentina and Chile through spectacular mountain and lake routes, including the famous Lakes Crossing between Bariloche and the Puerto Varas area.
Yes, definitely—if your itinerary allows enough time. El Calafate and Torres del Paine are only a few hours apart by road, crossing the Argentina-Chile border, and combining the two is one of the great classic Patagonia itineraries.
Perito Moreno Glacier, easily visited from El Calafate, and Torres del Paine are two of South America’s most iconic landscapes. Together, they create an unforgettable journey for travelers who love nature, mountains, glaciers, and outdoor experiences.
Torres del Paine does require some advance planning, especially during the high season from November to March. Accommodation, campsites, and mountain refuges can fill up months in advance. At ANDA Travel, we coordinate all the logistics so you can simply arrive and enjoy the experience.
Renting a car can be a great option in certain destinations, especially when it gives you more freedom to explore at your own pace.
Recommended destinations for renting a car:
*Patagonia: A car can be very useful on certain routes, such as El Calafate–El Chaltén, sections of Argentina’s Route 40, and Chile’s Carretera Austral, where distances are long and public transportation can be limited.
*The Lake District in Argentina and Chile: Renting a car gives you the flexibility to explore lakes, scenic routes, and smaller towns that can be more difficult to connect by public transportation.
*Argentina’s Atlantic Coast: A car is a good option if you want to explore several coastal towns and beaches during the same trip.
Destinations where we generally don’t recommend renting a car:
*Buenos Aires and Santiago: Traffic and parking can be complicated, while public transportation, taxis, and private transfers are usually more convenient.
*Cusco and Lima: Driving can be challenging if you are unfamiliar with local traffic and road conditions. We generally recommend private transfers instead.
*High-altitude and remote mountain areas: Gravel roads, changing weather conditions, and high-altitude routes may require driving experience and an appropriate vehicle.
At ANDA Travel, we can help you decide whether renting a car makes sense for each part of your itinerary and arrange the most suitable option when needed.
This is one of the things we are most passionate about at ANDA Travel. We love taking travelers beyond the usual tourist routes to places known mainly by locals and the most curious travelers.
Here are some lesser-known destinations that are truly worth discovering:
Cusi Cusi Valley of the Moon – One of the Argentine Puna’s best-kept secrets
Far from the traditional tourist routes, in the extreme north of Jujuy, lies one of Argentina’s most extraordinary landscapes. The Cusi Cusi Valley of the Moon feels like another planet, with wind-sculpted clay formations, colorful mountains, and an incredible sense of silence and isolation.
Getting there is part of the experience: traveling through the authentic Puna, encountering local communities along the way, and discovering a corner of Argentina that very few international travelers get to see. It is ideal for those looking for nature, adventure, and truly unique places.
A traditional estancia in the Iberá Wetlands – The essence of Corrientes
Beyond traditional hotels, some family-run estancias welcome travelers who want to experience the authentic spirit of northeastern Argentina. Here, life follows the rhythm of nature, with horseback riding, boat trips, wildlife watching, and homemade meals prepared from recipes passed down through generations.
Mendoza is much more than wine—even though the wine is excellent! Here are some of our favorite activities beyond the vineyards:
Trekking and the High Andes: Visit Aconcagua Provincial Park, home to the highest mountain in the world outside Asia, with hiking options for different experience levels. There are also excellent trekking opportunities in other mountain areas around Mendoza.
Horseback riding: Ride through valleys and mountain landscapes with spectacular views of the snow-capped Andes. It’s a wonderful way to experience Mendoza’s countryside and connect with local traditions.
Cycling: Exploring Mendoza by bicycle is one of the most relaxed and enjoyable ways to discover its landscapes. There are routes through vineyards, olive groves, and quiet country roads.
Rafting on the Mendoza River: Meltwater from the Andes flows through the impressive Mendoza River Canyon, creating rapids of varying difficulty surrounded by mountains, rocky cliffs, and spectacular scenery.
Hot springs: Spend some time relaxing in thermal waters, with Cacheuta being one of the most popular options after a few active days exploring the region.
Olive Oil Route: Less famous than Mendoza’s wine routes but equally interesting. Visit local producers, learn about olive oil production, and taste high-quality Argentine olive oils.
High Mountain Route and the road to Chile: Travel along the spectacular mountain road toward the Chilean border, surrounded by some of the Andes’ most impressive scenery. Stops along the route can include viewpoints, historic sites, and landscapes near the international border.
Gastronomy: Mendoza has developed a culinary identity of its own. From traditional Argentine barbecue and oven-baked empanadas to an exciting and constantly growing restaurant scene, food is another great reason to explore the region.
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