Argentina may not hold bragging rights over the Amazon Rainforest or a Caribbean coastline like many of its northern neighbours in South America, but that’s not to say it doesn’t offer a wildlife bonanza all of its own…
Words Adam Millward
Travel expert
Tristan Whitworth is the Latin America destination specialist for Natural World Safaris, designing wildlife tours for clients wishing to explore Latin America
While most of its fame is owed to the likes of Diego Maradona, tango and smooth wine, Argentina also deserves to be on the map of any natural world and wildlife enthusiast. The eighth largest country in the world is so geographically diverse that within the same trip visitors can immerse themselves in the wildlife-rich Iberá Wetlands – home to jaguars, caiman, capybaras and giant river otters – marvel at the largest colony of penguins in South America and admire the immense force of Perito Moreno Glacier as it caves under 30 kilometres (18.6 miles) of pressure.
My top tip is to stay at small, family owned estancias that provide an intimate and authentic base from which to explore the natural wonders of the country.
Map key
1 Iberá Provincial Reserve
2 Perito Moreno National Park
3 Punta Tombo Provincial Reserve
4 Peninsula Valdés
5 Tierra del Fuego National Park
6 Sierra de Las Quijadas National Park
Mara
Looking like a cross between a deer and a hare, there’s no missing these inquisitive rodents that scamper across pampas and scrubland throughout Argentina.
Yacaré caiman
Chill out with wetland wildlife, including alligators, marsh deer and capybaras, in Argentina’s very own version of the stunning Pantanal.
Guanaco
Snap an Insta-worthy pic of these hardy camelids amid stunning mountain vistas, plus look out for other Andean icons, such as condors and pumas.
Southern right whale
The Patagonian coast provides a perfect pit-stop for migrant whales and dolphins, as well as a year-round home for seals, sea lions and a host of seabirds.
Austral parakeet
Head to the real ‘deep south’ to meet the most southern-faring parrot, among many other critters who have made their home at the ‘end of the world’.
Magellanic penguin
Get on your happy feet and waddle among a colony of around half a million penguins on the country’s Atlantic coastline.
Travel guide
When to go
September to December is recommended for central and northern Argentina, while summer (December to March) is better for chillier Patagonia and the high Andes.
How to get there
Direct flights from the UK’s major airports go to Buenos Aires daily, or indirect flights go via hubs like São Paulo and Madrid to cities like Mendoza and Córdoba.
What the weather will do
This depends on where you are. The subtropical north (intense rain, high humidity) contrasts sharply with the temperamental altitude
