Isolation Escapism – Northern Argentina

Whilst we cannot physically transport you to our destinations themselves at present, we would like to offer you a little virtual escapism. We do hope that they will act as a welcome distraction as we sit out these extraordinary times, and act as an inspiration for your next adventure.

In our second Isolation Escape we would like to take you on a journey through northern Argentina. From the spectacular Iguazu Falls, the bustling streets of Buenos Aires  and the sun drenched winelands in Mendoza to the northwest frontier of Salta and the rolling hills of Cordoba.

Our itinerary begins at the astounding Iguazu Falls. A truly awe-inspiring sight, a chain of hundreds of waterfalls comprise the largest waterfall in the world, dividing the Iguazu River into the upper and lower Iguazu, on the border of the Argentine province of Misiones and the Brazilian state of Paraná.  Beyond the falls a large expanse of national park, much of which is tropical rain-forest, teams with birds including the brilliantly coloured toucan and over 2000 species of plant life.

Moving south we arrive in Buenos Aires. One is hard pushed not to let this moody and enticing city get under your skin. Rich in well preserved eclectic European architecture and the notable colours of the neighbourhood of La Boca, Buenos Aires boasts a vivid cultural life, famously home to the sultry tango, Parisian pavement cafes, the Argentine Open Polo Championship and exquisite art and cuisine.

📷: ggfoto – stock.adobe.com

Hopping over to the west of the country, Mendoza is the heart of Argentina’s wine country, well-known for its celebrated Malbecs and other red wines. With wide leafy streets lined with modern and art deco buildings, the laid back city is a well irrigated desert town, dotted with fountain centred plazas and lively eateries spilling onto the sidewalks. The surrounding countryside is naturally littered with pretty bodegas (wineries) and cellar doors inviting one to sample their exquisite vintages and delicious cuisine in beautiful surroundings.

📷: diegograndi – stock.adobe.com

Our next stop takes us to the mountainous northwest and its provincial capital, Salta. While the attractive city is known for its well preserved Spanish colonial architecture and colourful streets, further afield its Andean heritage and clear Bolivian influence gives the impression of venturing to another country entirely. From high-altitude vineyards, colourful local markets and solitary whitewashed desert churches to theatrical ochre rock formations and tumbling green valleys, the countryside here is mysterious yet comforting.

📷: Anibal Trejo – stock.adobe.com

📷: alexzappa – stock.adobe.com

Heading south east toward the country’s centre, our final stop, Cordoba, is home to the incredible Manzana Jesuítica (Jesuit Block), a 17th-century complex with active cloisters, one of South America’s oldest universities and the neo-baroque Cathedral of Córdoba. The surrounding countryside is breath-taking on every level. Here the Central Sierras, a 400 million year old mountain range, is flanked by undulating moorland and pampas, engraved by rivers creating fertile valleys attracting myriad wildlife and allowing its spectacular flora to bloom in its temperate climate.

📷: Santiago – stock.adobe.com

📷: Julio Ricco – stock.adobe.com

📷: Guillermo – stock.adobe.com

If you’d like to start planning a holiday to Argentina while waiting for this storm to pass, please drop us a line and we’ll be delighted to send you further information on this tranquil yet passionate country.

‘Argentina has so much to offer for those who love the great outdoors, such variety in climate and landscapes, I could happily return again and again, each time discovering something new.’

Louise Mathers, Exceptional Travel