Planning a family vacation can seem daunting when you’re travelling with children – especially if you are considering taking an international journey. There are many factors to take into consideration, such as safety, dietary restrictions and activities fit for the whole family. Some countries are more kid-friendly than others, but what visitors love about Argentina is that there is truly something for everyone. Read on to discover the best things for kids to see and do in Argentina.
Iguazu Falls
For the nature-loving family who doesn’t mind getting a little wet, Iguazu Falls cannot be missed. The park straddles the border between Argentina and Brazil and is divided into two main circuits (upper and lower) including many winding trails that you can take through the rainforest. There are nearly 300 falls, but be sure to stop by the Devil’s Throat, or La Garganta del Diablo, one of the most popular. You can even take a boat tour to gaze up at the huge falls from below.
Don’t forget to bring a water-resistant bag for any electronics and a towel or change of clothes, because you’re bound to get wet. The park is full of wildlife, including exotic birds, howler monkeys, and colorful butterflies. Try to spot the coatís, friendly raccoon-like mammals. The whole family will be amazed by the size and beauty of Iguazu, which is the world’s largest waterfall system. In fact, it was recently named one of the new seven wonders of the natural world, so it’s no wonder this is one of Argentina’s top destinations, especially for families. If you plan on bopping over to the Brazilian side, you’ll need to secure a visa prior to your trip.
Bariloche
San Carlos de Bariloche (known simply as Bariloche) attracts families throughout the year looking to enjoy some quality time together. Thanks to its picturesque landscapes, diverse array of outdoor activities and world-famous chocolate, Bariloche is one of the most sought-after destinations in Argentina. With stunning mountain views and sparkling blue lakes, even the most tightly wound parents will feel relaxed and at ease surrounded by Bariloche’s peaceful vistas.
There are plenty of outdoor activities to keep everyone in the family entertained during each season, making it a versatile crowd-pleaser. For example, during the snowy months, you can spend your days skiing on some of the best slopes in the Andes. (Don’t miss Cerro Catedral.) In the summer, you can visit the beaches along the crystal-clear lakes. Other favorite activities include kayaking through the lakes, unplugging at one of the area’s many campsites, fly fishing and hiking.
Tigre
Just a short train ride north of Argentina’s capital city is a relaxing retreat called Tigre, a small town on the Rio de la Plata. With far less hustle and bustle than Buenos Aires, it makes for an ideal day trip for families and children of all ages. Jump aboard a boat tour along the famed river to see historic houses or take a dip in the region’s lakes (the water stays fairly warm for most of the year). A favorite option for thrill-seekers is to spend the afternoon at Parque de la Costa, a classic amusement park offering an impressive selection of rollercoasters and water rides.
The small riverside town is also known for its huge Feria Artensenal, which is a unique craft market held in the old fruit harbor. There you can find an assortment of traditional Argentine handicrafts leather gifts, furniture ans spices. While in town, be sure to sample some traditional local fare, like empanadas or choripán (a sandwich made with chorizo). And anybody with a sweet tooth needs to make sure they try dulce de leche or alfajores (soft, delicate cookies).
Mendoza
While Mendoza isn’t typically the first destination in Argentina that comes to mind when you think “family-friendly,” the famed wine region attracts families of all ages. Mendoza offers much more than its signature Malbec, and the astounding beauty of the surrounding Andes cannot be ignored. You can head outside and spend some time hiking, biking, rappelling or zip-lining. If you go during the summer, you can trek the base of the highest peak in all of the Andes, Mount Aconcagua.
One way to experience Argentina’s famed gaucho culture and enjoy the stunning scenery is by horseback. There are many tour options that include a gaucho-guided tour on horseback followed by a traditional asado (grilled meat) dinner.
On the weekends in the city center, Plaza Independencia is filled with families spending time together. Bring a soccer ball for the kids and a bottle of local wine for the parents (don’t worry – it’s perfectly legal to drink in the park).
Of course, many families also opt for to relax and spend the majority of their time at their hotel or resort, taking advantage of perks such as top-notch spas, swimming pools and room service.
Los Glaciares National Park
Los Glaciares National Park is one of the most breathtaking places in the country. Situated near the Chilean border in the Austral Andes of southwest Argentina, it’s the perfect destination for families looking to experience a more adventurous itinerary – but it’s certainly not the ideal choice for every family. As Argentina’s largest national park, it was officially declared a UNESO World Heritage Site in 1981.
Approximately 30% of the park is covered by ice, and it’s home to impressive sites including Perito Moreno Glacier, Mount Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre. The most popular things to do in the park include biking tours, photography safaris, rafting along the Santa Cruz River, trout fishing, horseback riding and trekking the aforementioned attractions. Visitors can expect to see many birds, such as condors and black-chested buzzard eagles.
Buenos Aires
If you’re planning a trip to Argentina, chances are Buenos Aires will be your central hub – or you’ll at least be passing through at the beginning and end of your adventure. The capital city is massive, consisting of 48 barrios (neighborhoods). Each has its own flair, from the tree-lined streets of posh Recoleta to the myriad hip boutiques, quirky hotels and inventive restaurants sprinkled throughout Palermo. La Boca is also a favorite destination for families because of its colorful buildings and tango dancers who perform on the sidewalks.
In Buenos Aires, there is no shortage of things to do. For an educational experience, stop by the MALBA (one of the city’s top museums) or Galileo Galilei Planetarium, also known as Planetario. There are also plenty of green spaces and parks worth exploring, incluiding the Carlos Thays Botanical Garden and the Paseo El Rosedal, a sprawling rose garden featuring thousands of colorful blooms.
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