Argentina is a MUST on any backpacking trip through South America. Built with a strong European influence, Argentina is unique among its more indigenous continental counterparts. Massive mountains, pristine beaches, sprawling glaciers, endless plains, rugged outposts, modern cities, and lots and lots of DELICIOUS meat- Argentina has it ALL. You’ve gotta see it to believe it....

A quick tip on the economics of traveling through Argentina: Due to current financial instability in the country and government-imposed regulations on the exchange rate, there is a 'Black Market' for US dollars in Argentina. While the 'official' exchange rate is pegged right around 4.75 pesos to the dollar, you can often exchange your USD for 6 to 6.5 pesos on the 'Black Market'. Obviously, this stretches your money further, and is worth considering when planning a trip to Argentina. Locals and fellow travelers alike will tell you to bring as many US dollars in cash as you feel comfortable carrying into Argentina, and exchange them once you arrive in the country. You'll be getting 33% more pesos that way than if you just go to an Argentinean bank and withdraw pesos from the ATM at the 4.75 exchange rate. You CANNOT get US dollars from an ATM in Argentina- you must bring them with you. As always, use some common sense and discretion here- make sure that you find a safe and reputable method of exchanging your money, and don't talk openly about how much you have/want to exchange. Ask at your hostel about exchanging money- the locals that work there should be able to point you in the right direction.