Discovering South America's Gems: Argentina vs. Chile
If you are considering luxury travel, your mind may have turned to a South American adventure. As a continent, it offers untamed beauty, vast open spaces, great food, fine wine, and vibrant cultures. In addition to the Amazonian adventures in the North, the spectacular southern plains of Argentina and Chile stand out. Both countries offer diverse, breathtaking natural wonders, but which is best for you? Choosing between Buenos Aires or Santiago might feel like a trial. Fortunately, the team at Few & Far have compiled this blog to help.
From the towering peaks of the Andes to the vast, windswept plains of Patagonia, Argentina is a land of dramatic contrasts. Visitors can sip Malbec in luxurious eco-lodges nestling in the shadow of mountain peaks or soak up the sun at Mar del Plata. Chile is an equally dramatic ribbon of land stretching from the driest desert on earth to glacial lakes at the southernmost tip of the world. In both cases, adventure awaits.
Patagonian Showdown: Chile vs. Argentina
The Patagonia region is renowned for its untamed mountainous wilderness and epic glacial beauty. As it stretches across Chile and Argentina, asking which country presents the best base for a visit is fair. The case for Argentina includes easy access to the majestic Andes and the world-famous Perito Moreno Glacier. Arguments for Chilean Patagonia often centre on the crystal clear lakes and rivers of the Torres del Paine National Park. But which comes out on top?
Argentinian Patagonia
Of the two regions, Argentinian Patagonia is often seen as more accessible. Trekking the Perito Moreno Glacier, for example, is comparatively straightforward from a base in Argentina, as is hiking the Andes and observing the region’s wildlife for that matter. You might catch pumas stalking prey as condors circle the skies. Along with its awe-inspiring natural wonders, Argentinian Patagonia enjoys a romantic history that draws travellers in. Originally inhabited by indigenous tribes such as the Tehuelche and Mapuche, the expansion of the Argentine frontier saw the establishment of vast ranches, and the famous Gaucho cow hand was born.
Chilean Patagonia
Chilean Patagonia is often described as the wilderness at the world's end. Dominated by the iconic Torres del Paine National Park, it boasts towering granite peaks, emerald lakes, and expansive glaciers. Chilean Patagonia offers unparalleled mountain trekking, kayaking in the crystal clear waters of Grey Lake, and horse riding under epic rolling skies. Such things may be more suited to those with adventurous spirits than Argentinian alternatives, but you don’t have to do anything too strenuous to enjoy the views. Initially inhabited by the Tehuelche and Yaghan tribes, 16th-century trade routes brought dramatic changes. Today, the area’s varied culture and natural wonders blend seamlessly, offering an unforgettable journey through time and terrain.
Argentinian vs. Chilean Patagonia: Which Wins?
Frankly, the problem with Patagonia is that each side of the debate offers clear, distinct advantages. Argentinian Patagonia dazzles with sweeping, accessible landscapes. On the other hand, Chilean Patagonia captivates with a rawer, more remote beauty. In the end, declaring a winner is impossible. Patagonia promises so much that a tie is the only result the Few & Far team can live with.
A Culinary Journey: Argentina vs. Chile
Any adventure through South America would be incomplete without exploring the gastronomic traditions of Argentina and Chile in depth. Both cuisines showcase the continent’s abundant natural resources and colourful, vibrant cultures. Each country offers distinctive dishes packed with exciting ingredients, making choosing between Buenos Aires or Santiago food scenes a delicious dilemma for any traveller.
Argentinian Cuisine
Argentina’s culinary scene is synonymous with beef, which is easily attributed to the country’s vast grasslands and cattle-rearing traditions passed down over the centuries. Locals and guests often get together to enjoy mouth-watering cuts of the best fresh meat grilled over a slow-cooking traditional barbecue, an Asado. Elsewhere, you’ll see an Italian influence in favourites such as empanadas and pasta dishes, washed down with exquisite wines from world-class local vineyards.
Chilean Cuisine
Crossing the Andes into Chile, the culinary landscape shifts towards the bountiful offerings of the Pacific Ocean with dishes such as Ceviche, Paila marina, Machas A La Pamesan, and Pastel de Jaiba made with fresh local king crab. Chile’s Chiloé archipelago region is famous for Curanto dishes cooked over hot stones in earth ovens, reflecting a deep connection to the land. Pastel de Choclo is a hearty ground corn, meat, and vegetable casserole. Fresh local ingredients like merkén (a smoked chilli pepper spice), piñones (pine nuts), and native potatoes also add depth and diversity to Chilean gastronomy.
Argentinian vs. Chilean Cuisine: Which Wins?
Both Argentina and Chile are blessed with untold treasures when it comes to food and drink, making declaring a winner a tough call. Argentinian cuisine centres on legendary asado barbecues, where succulent beef, lamb, and pork cuts are grilled slowly outdoors over open fires. Chilean cuisine equally shines with its emphasis on seafood thanks to the country's extensive Pacific coastline. Each neighbour brings unique gifts to the table, so choosing will largely depend on your tastes. Our advice? Don’t hold back and explore both during your travels.
Wine Regions Uncorked: Argentina vs. Chile
For enthusiasts, Argentina and Chile undoubtedly represent the best in South American winemaking. It is hard to argue that either country produces anything other than world-class, eminently drinkable wines. Each region brings distinct flavour notes and characteristics that are, quite rightly, celebrated the world over. We know this makes picking a favourite impossible, but our team has nonetheless written a short guide to tease your tastebuds.
Argentinian Wine
Argentina is rightly celebrated for its Malbec. More fruit-forward than its French counterpart, Argentinian Malbec has a velvet texture and cocoa, blackberry and plum notes. Originating from the prime wine-making Medoza region, Argentinian Malbec grapes benefit from the clean air of high altitude and the energy from a sunny mountain climate. It all adds up to producing grapes that are nothing short of spectacular. For lovers of white wine, Argentina’s equally splendid Torrontés grapes offer a refreshing counterpoint to Malbec with floral and citrus notes to the fore.
Cihilean Wine
Chile boasts a more diverse range of grape varieties than its neighbour but still competes toe-to-toe with Argentina in terms of quality. The country’s vineyards run north to south in the shadow of the Andes, enjoying protection from the elements and crisp, clean, dry air. Its signature Carmenère grape, often cheekily referred to as the lost grape of Bordeaux, thrives in the Maipo and Colchagua Valleys south of Santiago, delivering velvety, rich, spicy reds. Chile's Sauvignon Blanc varieties also stand out for their crisp acidity and vibrant tropical fruit notes.
Argentinian vs Chilean Wine: Which Is Best?
You know that rather than crown a winner, we are going to suggest trying both countries’ wines for yourselves, don’t you? To make it easy, guided wine tours, vineyard visits, and tastings are a significant part of today’s Argentinian and Chilean travel experience. It doesn’t matter if you start from Buenos Aires or Santiago or have the nose of a novice or a sophisticated palate. Enthusiastic wine-makers from both sides of the Andes will welcome you with open arms, making wine drinkers the real winners here.
Coastal Wonders: Argentina vs. Chile
Experienced adventurers will tell you that Argentina and Chile offer some of the most spectacular coastlines in the world. Uniquely, one borders the Atlantic Ocean, and the other borders the Pacific, meaning travellers can compare and contrast different ecologies and ecosystems. Which country offers the best beach experience? Which coast is best for surfers? Which gives you dramatic fjords and windswept cliffs? Which is best for whale watching? Where can you see penguins? Relax, we’ve got answers for you right here.
Argentina’s Atlantic Coastline
Argentina’s Atlantic coastline is a captivating blend of sun-soaked beaches, historic seaside towns, and untamed wildlife sanctuaries. This diverse stretch of shoreline is ideal for travellers seeking sun-kissed adventure. Mar del Plata, often called Argentina’s Happy City, is celebrated for its golden sands, water sports, bustling beachfront, world-class seafood, and eclectic nightlife. Further south, the Valdés Peninsula UNESCO World Heritage site is a haven for wildlife. Visitors can witness majestic Southern Right Whales feed, sea lions play, and adorable Magellanic penguins frolic, all in their wild natural habitats.
Chile’s Pacific Coastline
Chile’s Pacific coastline offers many landscapes and experiences for the adventurous traveller. In the south, it features dramatic glacier-carved fjords, where steep labyrinthine cliffs plunge into the ocean. The remote, mystical islands of the Chiloé Archipelago add a touch of history with their unique wooden churches and traditional stilted houses. In stark contrast, the northern coastline offers surf-friendly beaches that attract wave chasers from around the globe. Further north still, the Atacama Desert meets the sea, providing an epic coastal backdrop for water sport enthusiasts and thrill-seekers.
Argentina Vs. Chile: Which Coastline To Visit?
Unfortunately for those with a choice to make, Argentinian and Chilean coastlines both prove to be treasure troves packed full of natural beauty and adventure. The Atlantic coast of Argentina offers sun-kissed perfection and unmatched wildlife spotting opportunities. The Pacific coastline of Chile combines the excitement of riding the world’s best waves with the thrill of untouched, wild glacial ecosystems. Both seem unmissable to us, so the Few and Far team are also calling this one a tie.
Desert Adventures: Argentina vs. Chile
Argentina and Chile offer some of the most captivating desert regions in the world. The narrow Quebrada de Humahuaca valley in Argentina's Salta province is famous for colourful rock formations, ancient pre-Incan ruins, and charming Andean villages. In Chile, the Atacama Desert is widely recognised as the driest place on earth. You would be foolish to miss its vast salt flats, geothermal features and unsurpassed starry night skies.
Argentinian Desert
The dry mountain valley of Quebrada de Humahuaca stretches over 150 kilometres in Argentina’s northwest corner. Its dramatic landscapes, archaeological sites, and vibrant culture make it a must-visit area for anyone looking for the drama and romance of the desert. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has been an important trade route for centuries. Travellers can explore the small towns of Humahuaca, Tilcara, and Purmamarca and experience life in this beautiful but challenging environment with the help of local indigenous guides.
Chilean Desert
Across the border, the Chilean Atacama Desert offers a starkly different experience. Known as the driest of the world’s deserts, the Atacama presents a lunar landscape of ethereal beauty. Visitors can cross shimmering, untouched white salt flats under huge azure cloud-free skies. The landscape is also crisscrossed with geothermal wonders such as the El Tatio geysers, where steaming vents reveal the epic, timeless forces at work at the earth’s core. Thanks to its remote location, high altitude and minimal light pollution, the Atacama is one of the best places on Earth to stargaze. It is every bit as thrilling at night as it is during the day.
Argentinian vs. Chilean Desert Regions: Which To Explore?
Both of the desert regions we’ve discussed are unforgettable travel destinations. Argentina’s Salta province enchants visitors with its vibrant landscapes, rich Inca history, and charming modern Andean villages. Chile’s Atacama Desert is a starker, less hospitable landscape that offers otherworldly adventure to those who venture into it. Which to choose? It will depend on your preferences, but it’s difficult to argue against either.
Cultural Riches: Argentina vs. Chile
When it comes to culture, both Argentina and Chile offer rich tapestries of arts, crafts, music, literature, and history. But will Buenos Aires or Santiago capture your heart? It’s impossible to predict. After all, there is the passionate rhythm of the tango and the soulful poetry of Pablo Neruda to consider. These South American neighbours' cultural treasures are as fascinating as their diverse landscapes and ecosystems.
Argentinian Culture
Visitors to Argentina can't avoid the tango. Originating in the bustling ports of Buenos Aires, its melancholic passion symbolises Argentine identity. Ranching has also become integral to Argentine culture. Gaucho festivals, featuring horseback riding, traditional music, and ‘asado’ grills, provide a glimpse into the country’s rugged, rural heritage. Add wine-making, architecture, music, and festivals to the mix, and you’ll never have a dull moment as you travel across this fascinating piece of South America.
Chilean Culture
Its indigenous Mapuche heritage influences Chile’s cultural offering more deeply than its neighbour. The Mapuche people, who have actively resisted colonisation for centuries, continue to celebrate their customs through traditional music, dance, and crafts that reflect the nation’s rural roots and communal spirit. Chile also boasts a profound literary legacy, notably embodied by the Nobel Prize-winning poet Pablo Neruda. His evocative work is celebrated in museums in Santiago, Valparaíso, and Isla Negra. Travelling through Chile means immersing yourself in a cultural landscape that honours the past as it looks to the future.
Argentina Vs. Chilean Culture: Which Is Most Rewarding?
Both Argentina and Chile offer deeply cultural enriching experiences. Argentina enchants through a fiery passion for music, dance, and legendary Gaucho traditions. Conversely, Chile feels more soulful and deeply connected to its indigenous Mapuche heritage and lyrical literary tradition. Whether you prefer Buenos Aires or Santiago, your cultural highlights will depend on you as a person. Are you full of passion and energy to spare or more meditative and reflective when travelling?
Urban Thrills: Buenos Aires or Santiago
Embarking on a South American adventure often creates a delightful dilemma: should you explore the vibrant streets of Buenos Aires or Santiago? Both cities are cultural powerhouses offering unique city-break experiences. The former, known as the Paris of South America, lies on the western shore of the Río de la Plata. The latter is in a prime spot high in Chile’s Central Valley. Both are easily accessible for travellers, but which is best?
Visiting Buenos Aires
The quality of Buenos Aires’ European-inspired architecture is evident in historic neighbourhoods such as San Telmo and La Boca. The city is a haven for art and history lovers, with the MALBA gallery attracting fans of Latin American art from across the world. Buenos Aires’ culinary scene is equally vibrant, famed for world-class steaks, bustling cafés, and gourmet restaurants. The city’s nightlife is legendary, with many theatres, bars, clubs, and live music venues that stay open until the small hours for locals and visitors alike.
Visiting Santiago
Chile’s capital, Santiago, sprawls between the soaring Andes and the sparkling Pacific Ocean. It offers a spectacular contrast between a modern skyline, marked by the towering Gran Torre Santiago, and an awe-inspiring natural backdrop. Its main square, Plaza de Armas and seat of government, La Moneda Palace, are both architectural gems, and the Bellavista neighbourhood offers bohemian vibes, street art, and a myriad of dining options. Santiago is a compelling choice for travellers seeking a blend of modernity, outdoor adventure, and culinary delights.
Buenos Aires Or Santiago: Which City Wins?
If you are drawn to rich cultural activities and passionate nightlife, it is hard to beat Buenos Aires. Strong European roots make Argentina’s prime city an exciting melting pot of colonial culture with Latin strands running through its art, architecture, food, drink and nightlife. On the other hand, Santiago offers a modern urban experience in tune with Chile’s beautiful landscape. It’s impossible to pick a favourite. Ultimately, whether you find yourself in Buenos Aires or Santiago, you’ll find plenty of cultural highlights to enjoy.
Sustainable Luxury: Eco-Friendly Travel in Argentina and Chile
The quest for responsible, sustainable adventure is on the minds of most right-thinking travellers these days. Fortunately, Argentina and Chile offer an array of luxury experiences that promise world-class comfort while protecting the environment for future generations. Patagonian eco-lodges set in private conservation-focused reserves means you can explore the Andes region, including its glaciers, without compromising your eco-friendly credentials. In Mendoza, many modern wineries employ sustainable, organic viticulture practices that mean guests can enjoy quality local wines with a clear conscience. In the Salta region, stunning landscapes are matched by a commitment to protect local heritage sites and traditions.
Chile is also renowned for protecting its heritage and environment. Solar power and water conservation techniques are found high in the Andes and deep into the Atacama desert. The Mapuche Indigenous peoples are increasingly active in Chile, helping travellers tread lightly and respect the land as they explore it.
Whether you are exploring the majestic Andes, trekking wildlife with Gauchos, sipping wine in a sun-drenched vineyard or stargazing in the driest desert on the planet, sustainable luxury travel in South America is easier than ever. The Few and Far team specialises in eco-friendly Argentinian and Chilean travel plans and delivers them in close consultation with local experts.
Choosing Your Adventure: Argentina or Chile?
When considering luxury travel in South America, Argentina and Chile stand out because of their stunning landscapes, diverse natural wonders, and rich cultures. Should you start with Buenos Aires or Santiago? Both cities offer distinct experiences. With its European-inspired architecture, vibrant tango shows, and world-class culinary scene, Buenos Aires is a haven for art lovers and night owls. On the other hand, Santiago provides a modern urban experience with easy access to outdoor adventures, wine tasting, and bohemian neighbourhoods like Bellavista.
Both countries provide access to Patagonia and the rolling plains and glacial splendour of the Andes. It’s also impossible to forget Argentinian and Chilean desert regions, coastlines, and wine country. Choosing between the two countries seems impossible as both promise unique and enriching adventures. There is, it seems, only one solution to the dilemma presented in this blog: including both countries in your plans. If you are unsure where to begin, why not check out Few & Far’s South American luxury travel suggestions? Our team can help you plan a trip of a lifetime without compromise.