Transportation : how to Get around in Argentina – a guide for first timers
Discover Argentina's travel essentials, from buses to domestic flights!
Welcome to the land of tango, exquisite wines, and vast landscapes! Argentina’s transportation system offers various options for travelers eager to explore its vibrant cities and stunning natural wonders. Whether you’re jetting across the country or taking a leisurely stroll through cobblestone streets, this guide will help you navigate Argentina like a pro.
Understanding the Basics
Argentina’s transportation network caters to its massive size and diverse terrain, with options ranging from planes to buses to trains. Major cities boast extensive public transport systems, while more remote areas may require a bit of creativity to reach.
Air Travel
Domestic Flights
With distances that can make your head spin, flying is a practical choice for covering Argentina’s extensive territory swiftly. Aerolíneas Argentinas leads the pack, but several budget airlines like Flybondi and JetSMART offer competitive fares for the budget-conscious flyer.
Major Airports
Ezeiza International Airport in Buenos Aires is the primary gateway, while domestic hubs like Jorge Newbery Airport, Mendoza, and Bariloche keep the country well-connected. Remember, these air hubs are your best friends for avoiding marathon bus rides.
Public Buses
City Buses
In cities, the colorful bus fleet, affectionately known as ‘colectivos’, will be your wallet-friendly chariot. They’re ubiquitous and can get you almost anywhere, although deciphering their routes may initially feel like cracking an enigmatic code.
Long-Distance Coaches
When it comes to intercity travel, Argentina’s long-distance coaches are the stuff of legend. Comfortable, reliable, and relatively affordable, companies like Andesmar and Chevallier or CataInternacional offer services that range from basic to luxurious ‘cama suites’ on wheels.
Warning: Steer clear of Andesmar.
I attempted to book my trip thrice, encountering failures each time—a complete waste of time. Upon review, their exchange rate was exorbitant compared to CataInternacional. A bus ticket that cost 49€ with Andesmar was only 36€ with CataInternacional.
Trains
Metropolitan Rail Services
Buenos Aires’ metropolitan rail system is your ticket to suburban explorations. It’s efficient, if a little rough around the edges, and is perfect for when you’ve had enough of the city’s charming chaos.
Inter-city Rail Network
While not as extensive or speedy as European counterparts, the inter-city rail network can be a scenic alternative to buses. Routes like Retiro to Tucumán offer a slower pace of travel with a side of picturesque views.
Taxis and Remises
Hailing a Taxi
Taxis are plentiful in cities, painted in the iconic black and yellow. They’re metered, which minimizes haggling, but beware the ‘tourist route’ – some cabbies take scenic detours that inflate your fare.
Ride-Sharing Apps
Uber and Cabify are gaining ground and can be a modern-day savior when traditional taxis are playing hard to get. Just tap your app, and voilà, a ride appears!
Rental Cars
Renting Procedures
Car rental agencies are plentiful in major cities and airports. Be sure to have your driver’s license and a credit card handy for the deposit.
Driving Tips
Argentinian driving styles can be, well, assertive. Keep your wits about you, especially on the legendary Ruta 40, where road conditions and weather can change faster than a tango turn.
Biking and Walking
Bike Rental Services
Many cities, including Buenos Aires, have embraced the cycling revolution with bike rental services. It’s a fun, eco-friendly way to explore, with the added bonus of burning off all those steak dinners.
Pedestrian-Friendly Cities
Mendoza, Córdoba, and Rosario are examples of pedestrian-friendly cities where your feet are the best mode of transport. Walking around can uncover hidden gems that wheels might miss.
Navigating Waterways
Ferries and Boats
Ferries are a nifty way to cross over to Uruguay or navigate the Parana Delta. In the south, boats are essential for exploring the remote corners of Patagonia, where roads fear to tread.
Tips for First-Timers
Public Transportation Etiquette
Embrace the queue when boarding buses and trains, and don’t be the person who talks loudly on their phone. Argentines are gracious but appreciate when travelers respect local customs.
Safety and Security
Pickpockets can be an issue in crowded areas, so keep your valuables secure and your wits about you. Opt for licensed taxis and official transportation to avoid any unsavory situations.
Conclusion
Embracing the Argentine Experience
Getting around Argentina is part of the adventure, from the Andes to the Atlantic. So enjoy every spontaneous detour and unexpected stop – it’s all part of the rich tapestry that is traveling in this captivating corner of South America. Whether you’re sipping Malbec on a riverboat or gazing out the window of a long-distance bus, Argentina’s diverse transportation options are your passport to an unforgettable journey.