7 Most Charming Small Towns In Argentina
Argentina is a breathtaking country full of diverse landscapes and a vibrant culture. While destinations such as Buenos Aires are popular, one of the best ways to experience Argentina is in the small towns. Here, you will experience the country's rich culture and see stunning natural scenery. In Puerto Iguazú, you will see spectacular waterfalls and natural scenery. El Calafate is a town known for its magnificent glaciers. Wine lovers will want to visit the vineyards in Cafayate. Wherever you decide to go in Argentina, you will find these seven small towns to be the most charming to visit.
Villa La Angostura
Villa La Angostura is a town known for its rugged charm and serene atmosphere. It is a small town on the coast of Nahuel Huapi Lake in the stunning northern Patagonia region. From the lake, you get a beautiful view of northern Patagonia. This is a great spot to swim or enjoy the sun. Sailing is also a popular activity on the lake. There are local guides who offer sailing tours of the area. On a guided trip, you can start from Puetro La Mansa and stop at Los Arrayanes National Park, Victoria Island, and other beaches. The Los Arrayanes National Park is a small national park with beautiful ancient preserved wilderness to explore. The park is worth a visit to see the unique array of trees the park preserves. Some of these trees are up to 600 years old.
If you're into winter sports, visit the village during skiing season and check out Cerro Bayo. This is a popular ski resort where you can go skiing, snowboarding, snow-tubing, sledding, and cross-country skiing. There are 20 miles of runs and lifts to enjoy. Afterward, check out the restaurants and coffee shops to warm up.
Puerto Iguazú
Puerto Iguazú is the perfect Argentina town for those who love waterfalls. Puerto Iguazú is home to Iguazú Falls, one of the world's natural wonders. There are hundreds of other falls all on the Iguazú River. This is a breathtaking site for which you will want your camera ready. To see the highest and most famous waterfall in Iguazú, take the train or walk to the start path for the Garganta del Diablo. The stunning U-shaped chasm is brilliant to see in person. After you've visited the famous waterfalls, check out Iguazú's national park. The Argentinean side of the park offers plenty to do with trails to explore the jungle. On the trails, you will see indigenous plants such as ferns, orchids, hummingbirds, and lizards. To observe more wildlife, visit Guira Oga Animal Refuge. Here, you will glimpse even more wildlife, such as Capuchin monkeys, anteaters, capybaras, and other native mammals.
El Calafate
El Calafate is a colorful town with the unique attraction of all things glacial. Many people visit El Calafate to see the Perito Moreno Glacier in Patagonia. This glacier is one of the most magnificent ones in the world and is unique in that it is still growing. The enormous glacier can be safely viewed from platforms, and you can even hike on the surface. For people interested in a more adventurous route to explore the area, consider taking a glacier trekking tour or embarking on a scenic glacier cruise. Before going on your glacier adventures, check out the Glaciarium. This place is a huge museum filled with interactive displays.
After exploring and learning about glaciers, try some local chocolate. El Calafat has a huge selection of artisanal chocolate in town. A great place to try some local chocolate is Laguna Negra Café. While tasting some chocolates, look around town for the El Calafate berry. The town's name comes from the berry. The berry is native to southern Patagonia. Similar to blueberry, locals use this delicious berry to make a huge range of products in El Calafate, from beer to ice cream, syrup, and jam.
Villa Carlos Paz
Villa Carlos Paz is a dreamy town with rolling hill landscapes and rich culture. From beaches to parks and a historic theme park, there is something for everyone to enjoy in town. On hot days, cool off at Villa Carlos Paz. The natural pool has tranquil waters surrounded by lush trees. Cabalango Tanti is another great spot to go swimming. The beaches have cool waters and beautiful surroundings with sandy shores.
For a challenge, hike the Cerro de la Cruz. The hike's name comes from the cross that stands over the city at its highest point. This hike will give you a great view of the surrounding mountains and alpine towns.
Those looking for an adrenaline rush should check out Peko's Multiparque. The amusement park has been operating since 1983 and offers visitors exciting attractions, games, and the opportunity to learn a little history. A spot to learn more about history is Estancia La Quinta. The pretty park is a great place to picnic and explore the three old buildings built 500 years ago.
Purmamarca
Purmacara is a colorful town with artisan markets and beautiful vistas. The local artisan market is one of the most vibrant markets in North America. There are woven goods, ceramics, textiles, and other genuine products. What usually brings people to Purmamarca is the El Cerro de los Siete Colores, also known as the Hill of the Seven Colors. To get to the hill, you can walk a 1.5-mile trail along the Paseo de los Colorados. Here, you will get breathtaking views and see the bright reds, pinks, golds, and greens of the rock.
The local cuisine is another attraction that draws people to Purmamarca. The town has several restaurants, from upscale to rustic, where you can experience Northern Argentinian dishes such as empanadas, locro, tamales, humitas, and llama meat. Los Morteros is a popular local place known for its lamb and empanadas.
La Falda
Located in the foothills of the Sierras Chicas mountain range, La Falda makes the perfect destination for exploring the Punilla, La Falda, and the Sierra mountains. The crisp, clean air, wonderful hikes, and rich culture draw people in. It is a fantastic place to hike and explore the Los Cocos Park. The park has a huge greenspace, waterfalls, and picnic areas. El Cuadrado Hill is another great spot for panoramic views.
A popular historic landmark to visit in town is the Eden Hotel. The grand building dates back to 1897, and today, there are tours available where visitors can see the luxurious rooms and amazing gardens. The Museu del Hotel Edén is another historic building to visit, giving a glimpse into the town's past. Here, you can see the stunning architecture and religious artifacts.
Cafayate
Cafayate is a charming town with a pink, sandy landscape, cactus-dotted vineyards, and gorgeous colonial buildings. Walking around Cafayte, there are donkeys grazing and palatial-style wineries. Checking out the wineries is usually at the top of everyone's list when visiting Cafayate. The region is home to the Torrontés grape, which is only grown in Argentina. In town, several wineries are within walking distance. A few popular ones include the family-run Salvador Figueroa, the modern El Transito, and Bodega Nanni.
A stunning landmark to visit in town is the Iglesia Catedral Nuestra Señora del Rosario. Built in 1896, the cathedral is a brilliant example of the area's beautiful post-colonial architecture. To explore the outdoors in town, check out the Cascades del Rio Colorado. The half-a-day hike takes you to see seven different waterfalls.
Time of Year to Visit
The best time to visit Argentina's towns is between September and April when the weather is most pleasant. From June to August, it can get quite chilly, especially in the Patagonian areas. Make sure you pack extra layers if you are going around this time. Whatever time of year you decide to visit Argentina, with a bit of preparation, you will have a fantastic time in these towns.
