Argentina Ski Adventure - 8 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Buenos Aires, Explore

Welcome to Argentina! Renowned as the "Paris of South America" and the "Queen of El Plata," the capital city of Buenos Aires is defined by passion. This is exemplified in the rich tango heritage and its citizens' limitless enthusiasm for fútbol (soccer), which is by far the country's most popular sport. 

When you arrive at the airport, your driver will be waiting to take you in a private car to your hotel, where you can relax after a long flight. But make no mistake: the city will beckon you. So after a quick recharge, be sure to venture out into the welcoming arms of Buenos Aires and explore. 

When evening falls and dinnertime arrives, do like the locals and order a thick, juicy steak (Argentina has some of the best beef in the world) drizzled with the nation's famous chimichurri (a garlic, herb, and vinegar sauce). Know that Buenos Aires is a culture that thrives after dark, and it's not uncommon for locals to have dinner well past nine in the evening, especially on weekends.

Day 2: Buenos Aires Walking Tour

After breakfast, you'll take an organized tour of Buenos Aires. During this three-hour walking excursion, you'll visit the neighborhood of Retiro plus stroll Avenida 9 de Julio—South America's widest avenue. You'll pass through the historic city center, home to the Teatro Colón opera house, National Congress, Plaza de Mayo, and the Casa Rosada (Presidential Palace). Then, visit the oldest neighborhood in the city, San Telmo. Afterward, you'll stop by the city's original port, La Boca.

In the evening, enjoy a delicious meal accompanied by a tango performance—one of Argentina's most well-known cultural highlights.

Day 3: Boat Tour of Río de la Plata to Tigre

Today you'll travel up Río de la Plata, where it converges with the Paraña River Delta, located about an hour north of Buenos Aires. During the boat ride, you'll enjoy views of the city skyline as you enter a network of freshwater canals and sail among the islands that make up this unique region. The main port is in Tigre, a Venetian-style village whose small-town and relaxing atmosphere contrast with Buenos Aires' bustling energy.

On the waterfront, you'll find Puerto de Frutos, a maze of craft markets, produce stalls, and artisanal goods. The Museo de Arte features a grand collection of Argentine art spanning two centuries. The Naval Museum and the Museo de Maté are other highlights worth a visit. The latter offers an overview and tasting of maté, an herb cultivated in the Paraná region of the country and used for tea.

Day 4: Fly to Bariloche, Explore

After enjoying some exciting city life in Buenos Aires, it's time to head for the southern wilderness. At the scheduled time, a driver will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to Bueno Aires' local airport, Aeroparque. From here, you'll catch a flight to San Carlos de Bariloche, the main city in Argentina's Lake District, which is home to some of the most impressive scenery in the country.

San Carlos de Bariloche was founded in 1902 on the shores of Lago Nahuel Huapi, which itself is part of the larger Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi. If you detect some native influence in that name, you're correct. It comes from the Mapuche Indigenous people who once inhabited the area, and it means "jaguar island."

Upon arrival at Bariloche's airport, a driver will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. Even though you may be tired from your flight, try to get out and explore the city. The charming chalet-style buildings and alpine architecture can be seen and enjoyed on a brisk walk around, and the city center abounds with waterfront plazas, chocolate shops, and upscale restaurants. 

When dinnertime comes around, be sure to sample the local cuisine. You'll find that it differs considerably from what's typically found in Buenos Aires. Here regional fares like wild boar and lake trout are popular and delicious, as is the fondue (a culinary addition first introduced by the city's Swiss immigrants).

Days 5-7: Cerro Catedral Ski Excursion

Wake up bright and early and enjoy a hearty breakfast. You're going to need the fuel because you'll be spending the day on the slopes of Argentina's premier ski destination: Cerro Catedral. This 7,640-foot (2,338-meter) mountain boasts 75 miles (120 km) of slopes of varying levels of difficulty. There are even 32 miles (52 kilometers) of cross-country ski routes if you'd like to test your endurance. 

But first things first. After breakfast, you'll hop in a vehicle that will whisk you away to the mountain. Upon arrival, the driver will guide you to the office, where you can pick up your equipment and passes. Then, from 9 am to 4 pm, you will enjoy the rush of carving your way down Cerro Catedral, complemented by all the beautiful scenery of Lago Nahuel Huapi and the surrounding mountains.

Day 8: Return to Buenos Aires, Depart

The tour comes to an end today. A driver will pick you up from your hotel and take you to the airport to return to  Buenos Aires. You'll then go to the international airport where you'll catch your flight home. Adios!

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