Ideal Destinations to Travel to Argentina in October

Argentina is a year-round destination, and depending on the month of your trip, we have some recommendations for you. However, the country offers an endless array of options to visit during October. In this article, we present a few options if you’re unsure what to do in October:

1. Mendoza and the Wine Route

In the heart of the Andes, Mendoza stands as a paradise for wine lovers and mountain landscapes. October is ideal for touring its wineries, enjoying tastings of some of the world’s best Malbecs, and exploring its picturesque vineyards in full bloom. Additionally, you can combine the wine experience with outdoor adventures, such as mountain hiking, rafting in the Mendoza River, or simply admiring the imposing views of Mount Aconcagua. You can also take excursions to San Rafael and enjoy activities around the Atuel Canyon, like rafting, kayaking, or simply enjoying nature and the outdoors.

How to get to Mendoza:

• By plane: Mendoza has the Gobernador Francisco Gabrielli International Airport (El Plumerillo), which receives direct flights from Buenos Aires, Córdoba, and other Argentine cities, as well as international flights from neighboring countries like Chile and Brazil.
• By bus: Mendoza is well connected by national highways, and you can take buses from cities such as Buenos Aires (approximately 14 hours), Córdoba (10 hours), or San Juan (3 hours).
• By car: If you prefer to drive, from Buenos Aires, you can take National Route 7, which will bring you directly to Mendoza in about 12 hours.

2. Salta and Jujuy: Colors of the North

Northern Argentina welcomes you with its cultural and landscape diversity. Salta, known as "La Linda" (The Beautiful), and Jujuy, home to the breathtaking Quebrada de Humahuaca, are ideal destinations to explore in October. During this time, the region offers clear skies, allowing you to fully appreciate the multicolored mountain landscapes and traditional local festivities. From the historic city of Salta, you can visit the vineyards in Cafayate, experience the culture of Cachi, explore the Salinas Grandes, the picturesque town of Purmamarca in Jujuy, and even take a trip on the Quebrada’s solar train.

How to get to Salta and Jujuy:

• By plane: Salta has the Martín Miguel de Güemes International Airport, which offers direct flights from Buenos Aires, Córdoba, Mendoza, Iguazú, and some international connections from countries like Bolivia and Chile. From Salta, you can reach Jujuy in about two hours by car or bus.
• By bus: Bus companies connect Salta and Jujuy with various Argentine cities, such as Buenos Aires (approximately 20 hours), Tucumán (5 hours), and Córdoba (12 hours).
• By car: If you prefer to drive, you can reach Salta from Buenos Aires via National Route 9. From Salta, National Route 9 also connects with Jujuy, passing through stunning landscapes.

3. El Calafate and the Perito Moreno Glacier

If you prefer a more southern destination, El Calafate awaits you with one of the most impressive natural spectacles in the world: the Perito Moreno Glacier. October is an excellent time to visit, as the weather is milder than in the middle of winter, and the landscapes start to turn green again. You can trek on the glacier or walk along the pathways that offer panoramic views of the glacier’s face, while you wait for chunks of ice to break off in a thundering spectacle. Other activities in El Calafate include visiting other glaciers such as the Spegazzini and Viedma, or spending a day on a ranch.

How to get to El Calafate:

• By plane: The fastest way to get to El Calafate is by flying to the Comandante Armando Tola International Airport, which has daily connections with Buenos Aires (Aeroparque or Ezeiza). There are also direct flights from other cities like Ushuaia, Bariloche, and Córdoba.
• By bus: From Buenos Aires, the bus trip can be long (about 36 hours), but it’s an option for those who enjoy Patagonia’s landscapes. You can also take a bus from closer cities like Río Gallegos (4 hours).
• By car: If you enjoy the adventure of driving through Patagonia, you can reach El Calafate via National Route 3 from Buenos Aires and then take Provincial Route 11. This trip can take over 30 hours, so it is recommended to make stops along the way.

Bonus Track: Puerto Madryn and Whale Watching

If you have extra time, you cannot miss visiting Puerto Madryn on the Patagonian coast. October marks the peak season for southern right whale watching in the Valdés Peninsula, an unforgettable natural spectacle. Additionally, you can enjoy the arrival of Magellanic penguins and explore the area’s beautiful beaches.

How to get to Puerto Madryn:

• By plane: You can fly to El Tehuelche Airport, which receives flights from Buenos Aires. Another option is to fly to Almirante Marcos A. Zar Airport in the nearby city of Trelew (60 km from Puerto Madryn), which offers more flight options from various cities in the country.
• By bus: There are bus services from Buenos Aires (approximately 18 hours), Bariloche (13 hours), and other Patagonian cities.
• By car: From Buenos Aires, you can drive along National Route 3, which will take you directly to Puerto Madryn in about 14 hours of travel.