Overview of Argentina

Quick Overview

Argentina consists of an immense plain (the Pampas and its herds of cattle) bordered to the west by the Andes (Aconcagua: 6,960 m) and to the south by the Patagonian plateau and Tierra del Fuego.

Key Facts

• Type of place: country.

• Location: on the Atlantic coast, below Brazil.

• Latitude/longitude: 34°00' S, 64°00' W.

• Local time: Heure : 3921

• Capital: Buenos Aires.

• Nature of the state: federal republic.

• Official language: Spanish.

• Currency: Argentine peso.

• Population: 44,694,198 inhabitants (2018)

• Area: 2,791,810 km².

• Density: 16 inhabitants/km².

• Highest point: Aconcagua (6,960 m).

• Lowest point: Laguna del Carbon (-105 m).

• Coastline: 4,989 km.

• Driving: on the right.

Tourism

Despite its European feel, the country offers complete immersion in diverse landscapes and vast open spaces. From the towering Andean peaks to the rugged lands of Patagonia, through the unique environment of the northwest or Iguazu, and even the Atlantic beaches, the options are vast. This is why Argentina ranks among the top three most visited South American destinations (alongside Brazil and Chile). Each year, over 6 million people discover this country (6.942 million in 2017), though its tourism numbers remain somewhat tied to its socio-economic situation.

Travel Essentials

• Destination: for beginner travelers.

• By air: France-Buenos Aires.

• Entry requirements: passport.

• Currency to bring:

• Exchange rate:

• Daily "backpacker" budget:

• Best for accommodation:

• Best for getting around:

• Risks:

• Best time for climate/crowds/prices:

• Interests (out of ★★★★): Nature ★★★★; Adventure ★★★★; Culture ★★; Relaxation-holidays ★★

Useful Addresses

Socio-Economic Statistics

• "Quality of life": 47/188 (rank in 2018)

• GDP per capita: $20,900 (2017)

• Average monthly income: ()

• Inflation: +25.7% (2017)

• "Official" unemployment: 8.4% (2017)

• Population below poverty line: 25.7% (2017)

• Life expectancy: 77.5 years (2018)

• Migration rate per 1,000 inhabitants: -0.1 (2017)

• Population growth: +0.89% (2018)

• Literacy rate: 98.1% (2015)

• Urban population: 91.9% (2018)

• Press freedom: 52/180 (rank in 2018)

• Political regime: flawed democracy (47/167 in 2018)

Sources: World Bank, Human Development Indicators, RSF, The Economist, The World Factbook