I’m planning a solo trip for next March and I’m totally torn between Argentina and Chile. I have about 3 weeks and a moderate budget (not backpacker cheap but not luxury either, maybe $80 to $100 a day).
Argentina appeals to me for Buenos Aires, Mendoza wine, and Patagonia. Chile appeals for the Atacama, Valparaiso, and also Patagonia (Torres del Paine). The problem is both countries are huge and I feel like 3 weeks still isn’t enough for either one.
Has anyone done both and can tell me which felt more rewarding for the time? I love hiking, good food, and interesting cities. Not super into nightlife. Also, is one significantly cheaper than the other right now?
I have been to Argentina and Chile and am thankful that I could visit them both alongside each other.
Both completely different, but you can of course combine them in Patagonia.
Do you want your trip to feel more cultural or more natural?
Cultural, choose Argentina; Natural, go for Chile.
If I really could only visit one of the two, for three weeks, I would choose Argentina.
Depending on where you’re flying from (ticket prices), and how much you like to move around, I’d even consider flying in to Santiago (Chile) and out of Buenos Aires (Argentina), or the other way around.
When I visited South America, I travelled from Chile to Argentina, through Bariloche.
Argentina is probably more budget friendly, at the moment; and they do great steaks.
There are a number of combined Chile and Argentina Tours on TourRadar; some including a flying visit to the Iguazú Falls, and even Brazil.
Argentina 100%. The scenery/hiking in Torres del Paine is like nothing you’ll have ever seen before. The Perito Moreno Glacier… Photos look fake, but the air is so crisp and clear… and plus.. the CHOCOLATE in Ushuaia yum… But yeah, Argentina, for the scenery and the capital Buenos Aires for the culture… There is a great artists market near the cemetery (Eva Peron if that’s your thing)… I need to get back there…soon I hope. I mean going to Ushuaia the world’s most southern point city is a must.
I have been to both countries. There is an organized trip called “W Trek”. I will do the “Patagonia” of “Chile, & Argentina”. The trek is very good. If you can hike to "Fitz Roy".
Following this thread closely!