Travelers should be prepared for unpredictable weather at any time of year. Most travelers consider the warmer months of November to March (seasons are reversed south of the Equator), to be the best time to visit southern Argentina. However, the hottest summer months, (December - February) can be unpleasantly humid in Buenos Aires so travelers that plan on extending their stay in the capital may opt for the shoulder seasons (October - November or April -May) instead. Holiday weeks (Easter and Christmas) tend to be the busiest times so avoid these times if you want to avoid the crowds. Travelers can visit Iguazu Falls year round, though again the summer months can be incredibly hot. Visitors to Northwest Argentina will also want to avoid these hot summer months. In fact, the best time to visit this area is during the coolest months of May to September. Recommendations for the best time to do each tour are listed on the Argentina Tours page.

Beef is central to the Argentinean diet. Barbecue grills and steak houses are common, often with 10-15 different choices of beef cuts. For vegetarians, pasta dishes and pizza are also fairly ubiquitous. In the Lake District, game dishes such as trout and venison are regional specialties and the Northwest is particularly well known for spicy dishes.

Tour rates do not include international flights. We find that it is usually less expensive for travelers to book these separately and this also allows you the flexibility to choose the schedule and routing that is most convenient for you. You can purchase international flights on your own, or we can certainly help you arrange these flights with an airfare consolidator who specializes in international flights to South America

Our Patagonia tours include a mix of regional and international specialties such as BBQ, sandwiches, pasta, fresh produce, etc. On the Chilean side, seafood is among the world's best. Fish is often fried but will be steamed or grilled upon request. Beef is central to the Argentinean diet. Barbecue grills and steak houses are common, often with 10-15 different choices of beef cuts.

You can book your Patagonia tour at any time and generally the earlier you book, the better. Australis cruises (especially holiday departures) often fill up 6 months in advance or more. We usually recommend that you wait to book your international flights until after your tour is confirmed. The sooner that you book your tour, the sooner that you can take advantage of flight deals as they become available. That said, we are often able to accommodate last-minute travelers (some even departing in less than one week!!), so give us a call and we will do our best! For last-minute bookings, it helps to be flexible and organized. Your first choice tour may not be available for your selected dates, but your trip coordinator can probably recommend some other similar options that would be equally interesting! Many lodges will not hold spaces less than 30 days before departure so for last-minute bookings, you may be asked to send your registration form and trip payment in right away to secure your spaces.