Escape the hustle of Buenos Aires and embark on a day tour that reveals the rich cultural and natural wonders of Argentina’s diverse landscapes that lie beyond the city.
(Photo: Signature Tours / Courtes GetYourGuide)
While Buenos Aires is Argentina’s top tourist hub, it’s also an excellent starting point for exploring further afield. Small-group tours, designed to keep the experience intimate and personalised, offer the opportunity to venture beyond “BA”. Here are five top choices for a small-group day trip from the capital, including an introduction to Argentina’s rich cowboy culture, a chance to explore lush waterways and charming riverside communities, a polo lesson followed by a traditional barbecue lunch, a trip to spectacular waterfalls from air and water, and a journey across the river to visit a UNESCO world heritage site.
Gaucho and Ranch Day Tour
Step outside Buenos Aires for an action-packed day trip to San Antonio de Areco in the heart of the Pampas region. Over the course of the day, you’ll get to experience Argentina’s gaucho (cowboy) culture and its deep-rooted rural traditions. You’ll explore the village, then head to a traditional estancia for a horseback or carriage ride. Next, you’ll get to enjoy local treats like empanadas and a classic Argentina ‘Asado’ (BBQ) before watching a captivating folklore performance. If you choose the Premium option, you’ll also get to witness dazzling gaucho skills in action. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off. From $168 per person.
Tigre Delta Tour
(Photo: Signature Tours / Courtesy Viator)
On this day tour, you’ll journey to the peaceful surroundings of Tigre Delta, beginning with a 1.5-hour scenic cruise along the Rio de la Plata and delta channels. As you traverse these picturesque waterways, you can enjoy refreshments while taking in the alluring views. Later, you’ll get to explore the bustling Puerto de Frutos market, stroll along Paseo Victorica and visit the town of Tigre’s acclaimed Vivanco restaurant for a snack. There’ll also be time to admire local art before your return leg to Buenos Aires. Hotel transfers are included in the tour price. From $76 per person.
Polo Lesson Experience at Villa Maria with Argentinean Barbecue
Alongside football, there is no sport that generates as much passion among Argentines as polo. This day excursion invites travellers to immerse themselves in the nation’s rich polo culture, starting with a visit to a picturesque estancia where you’ll be welcomed with an informative talk about polo and the horses bred there. Next, it’s time for a polo lesson, where you’ll receive personalised guidance and training on how to play the game. Following the session, you’ll tuck in to an authentic Argentine asado, featuring mouth-watering local meats and local wines. Afterwards, there’ll be time to unwind, play tennis, or explore the estate at your leisure before returning to Buenos Aires. Hotel pick-up and drop-off is included. From $360 per person.
Iguazú Falls with Flight & Boat Ride
(Photo: Que Hacer en Buenos Aires / Courtesy GetYourGuide)
Take a whirlwind day trip from Buenos Aires to one of the natural wonders of the world: Iguazú Falls. Flying from the capital to the province of Misiones, you’ll meet your guide who will transport you to Iguazú National Park, where you’ll walk along the footbridges and visit the legendary Devil’s Throat. After a break for lunch (not included), you’ll embark on a thrilling 4×4 ride and boat trip through the jungle, getting up close to the falls so be prepared to get a bit wet. You’ll return to Buenos Aires the same day, with airport transfers and hotel-pick up and drop-off al included. From $601 per person.
Colonia del Sacramento Day Trip
Take a short ferry ride across the border to Uruguay to discover the UNESCO World Heritage-listed town of Colonia del Sacramento. Wander its charming cobblestone streets with a local guide, learning about its history at landmarks like the 19th-century lighthouse and the famous Street of Sighs. After a relaxing lunch at a local terrace, continue exploring its old town, soaking in its Spanish and Portuguese influences. Then, head back to Buenos Aires, enriched with insights into Uruguayan culture and history.