Money Matters in Patagonia

Currencies

Argentina

• The official currency is the Argentine Peso (ARS). Due to high inflation, prices can change frequently, and cash is often preferred. Banknotes come in denominations of 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1,000, and 2,000 pesos.The Blue Dollar (Dólar Blue)
• Inflation is a constant factor in Argentina. Prices for goods and services can rise significantly within weeks.

For long-term stays, consider keeping some savings in USD to protect against peso devaluation.

The Blue Dolar

Argentina operates a dual-currency system. The official exchange rate (set by the government) is often much lower than the informal “blue dollar” rate, which is widely used in cash transactions.

Exchange USD for pesos on the informal market (ask locals or check reliable sources like Dólar Blue websites) to get significantly more pesos for your money. Avoid exchanging large sums at banks or official exchange offices.

Chile

The official currency is the Chilean Peso (CLP). The exchange rate is relatively stable, but prices in tourist areas can be higher than in other parts of Chile.

Cash is Essential

• Why Cash?: Credit and debit cards are accepted in larger towns and cities, but cash is king in remote areas, small businesses, and national parks. Many places do not accept cards, or if they do, they may charge extra fees.
• ATMs: ATMs are available in towns like El Calafate, Ushuaia (Argentina), Punta Arenas, and Puerto Natales (Chile). However, they may have low withdrawal limits and high fees. In remote areas, ATMs are scarce or nonexistent.
• Currency Exchange: Exchange money in major towns before heading to remote areas. USD is widely accepted for exchange in both countries, but EUR and other major currencies may also be accepted.

During our trips, if meals are included, you will only need money for extra drinks, tips, and souvenirs. 100-200 usd should be more than enough. Please refer to the “Included / Not Included” section of your program.

Credit and Debit Cards

• Card Acceptance: Cards (Visa and Mastercard) are accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger stores in towns. However, always carry cash as a backup.
• Fees: Check with your bank about foreign transaction fees and notify them of your travel plans to avoid card blocks.
• Exchange Rates: In Argentina, card transactions are processed at the official exchange rate, which is less favorable than the informal “blue dollar” rate. In Chile, card transactions use the standard exchange rate.

Credit Cards and Foreign Currency

• Credit cards are accepted in larger establishments, but transactions are processed at the official exchange rate, which is less favorable than the blue dollar rate.
• Some businesses offer discounts for cash payments (efectivo) to avoid card fees.
• If using a foreign card, check if your bank charges international transaction fees.

ATMs and Banking

• ATMs are widely available but often have low withdrawal limits (around 30,000–40,000 pesos per transaction) and high fees. You may need to make multiple withdrawals to get enough cash.
• Some ATMs dispense USD, but this is rare and often comes with restrictions.

Money Exchange

Finding Reliable Exchange Spots

Banks and official ‘Casa de Cambio’ are your safest bets for exchanging currency. Street dealers might offer tempting rates, but they’re as reliable as a chocolate teapot.

Airport Exchange: Yay or Nay?

Airport exchanges might be convenient, but they offer rates that could make even a spendthrift weep. Use them only if necessary.

The Exchange Rate Quandary: Official vs. Blue Dollar

In early 2024, the blue dollar rate sits higher than the official rate. While banks and ATMs operate at the official rate, you might hear whispers of the ‘blue rate’ in more clandestine corners. Websites like dolarhoy.com keep you updated on these fluctuating rates.

Western Union: A Tourist’s Secret Weapon

Western Union transfers can offer rates close to the blue dollar, especially in Buenos Aires. In smaller cities, though, be prepared for long lines and transaction limits.

Location Matters: City vs. Rural Areas

In rural areas, ATMs can be as scarce as a desert mirage (like in El Chaltén and Calafate). Consider using cash-back services at local groceries or gas stations, which generally have a 10% fee – more reasonable than the ATM charges.

Tipping and Service Charges

Tipping is customary but not mandatory. In restaurants, a 10% tip is standard. For taxis, rounding up the fare is appreciated.
Some restaurants add a cubierto (cover charge) to the bill, which is not a tip but a service fee.

• Restaurants and Bars: About 10% of the bill is customary for good service. Paying this in cash is often appreciated.
• Guides: 10-15% is a good rule of thumb
• Bus Luggage Handling: Upon exiting the bus, you’ll find volunteers assisting with unloading luggage. A small tip of 500 to 1000 pesos is appreciated.
• Taxis and Personal Services: For taxi drivers, rounding up the fare is a small gesture that goes a long way.

Taxes and Refunds

• Argentina imposes a 21% VAT (IVA) on most goods and services. Tourists can sometimes claim VAT refunds on purchases over a certain amount, but the process is complex and not widely used.
• Foreign credit card purchases may include an additional 10% to 30% tax, so always check your receipts.

Cryptocurrency and Digital Payments

• Cryptocurrency is gaining popularity as a hedge against inflation and currency controls. Some businesses accept Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies. But I would not recommend to rely on it yet.
• Digital payment apps like Mercado Pago are widely used for transfers and online purchases.

Budgeting

• High Costs: Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego are among the most expensive regions in South America due to their remoteness and reliance on imported goods. Budget accordingly.
• Daily Expenses:
  • Budget travelers: 50,000–70,000 ARS (Argentina) or 70,000–100,000 CLP (Chile) per day.
  • Mid-range travelers: 100,000–150,000 ARS (Argentina) or 150,000–200,000 CLP (Chile) per day.
  • Luxury travelers: 300,000+ ARS (Argentina) or 400,000+ CLP (Chile) per day.
• Activities: Tours, park fees, and transportation are extremely costly. To give you an idea the mini-trekking Perito Moreno cost 450 Usd

Tipping and Service Charges

• Hotels and Tours: Tipping hotel staff, guides, and drivers is optional but appreciated, especially for good service.
• Argentina: Tipping is customary but not mandatory. In restaurants, a 10% tip is standard. For taxis, rounding up the fare is appreciated.
• Chile: Tipping is also customary. In restaurants, a 10% tip is standard and often added to the bill as a propina. For taxis, rounding up the fare is common.

Taxes and Refunds

• Argentina: A 21% VAT (IVA) is included in most prices. Tourists can sometimes claim VAT refunds on purchases over a certain amount, but the process is complex and not widely used.
• Chile: A 19% VAT (IVA) is included in most prices. Tourists can claim a VAT refund on purchases over 35,000 CLP made in participating stores. Ask for a tax refund form (formulario de exportación) at the time of purchase and present it at customs when leaving the country.

If you pay for hotels in cash and in U.S. dollars in Chile, you may be eligible for an immediate 19% discount, as you can avoid paying the VAT.

Practical Tips

• Carry Small Bills: Smaller denominations are useful for small purchases, tipping, and places where change is hard to come by.
• Avoid Counterfeit Bills: Check pesos for authenticity, especially larger denominations.
• Plan Ahead: Withdraw or exchange money in major towns before heading to remote areas. ATMs and exchange offices often run out of cash and are scarce in national parks and rural areas.
• USD as Backup: USD is widely accepted for exchange and can be useful in emergencies.
• Safety: Spread your cash stash across different hiding spots. Think of it as your own personal treasure hunt.
• Monitor Exchange Rates: Use apps or websites like dolarhoy.com or Blue Rate to stay updated on the blue dollar rate.

Key Towns and Financial Services

• El Calafate (Argentina): ATMs, currency exchange, and card-friendly establishments are available. Has one Western Union but long queues and often runs out of cash.
• El Chaltén (Argentina): One ATM only. 40 usd max limit. Often run out of cash.
• Ushuaia (Argentina): Similar services to El Calafate, but options may be limited in Tierra del Fuego National Park.
• Punta Arenas (Chile): ATMs, currency exchange, and card-friendly establishments are widely available.
• Puerto Natales (Chile): ATMs and card-friendly establishments are available, but options are limited in Torres del Paine National Park.