Looking to get away from the hustle bustle of colectivos? Grab a train and head to Tigre, a city about an hour outside of Buenos Aires. While peak season (the middle of summer) is packed, fall and spring are very welcoming. The fact that the train costs less than 3 pesos round trip makes it that much better.

Tigre is usually known as a destination for porteños to get out of the city. It has a great amusement park called Parque de la Costa, great boating (catamarans, canoes, kayaks, other river tours), camping, green space, and great restaurants. These are all the things that I encountered in a relatively short trip there one Saturday afternoon. I’m sure there are many more hidden gems to be uncovered.

The cute little town of El Calafate is home to one of the most stunning sights in South America, the glacier Perito Moreno. It is one of the largest existing glaciers in the world. Perito Moreno is still growing today, but is losing mass at the same time.

The Glacier Perito Moreno

The short 30 minute drive from the city to the entrance of the National Park affords many breathtaking views of the lake, mountains, estancias (ranches) and other beautiful scenery. Camping is possible and would be quite exciting, but be prepared for chilly weather and come with a four wheel drive vehicle. Upon entering the National Park, and paying the hefty entrance fee for non-nationals (60 pesos), there is a nice drive through the park which leads you directly to the walking paths around the glacier. Bus tours are frequent and easy to arrange in the town of El Calafate. There is also a plethora of boat tours available which take you as close as possible to the glacier for a few extra dollars.