Argentina · tool
How much does Patagonia cost?
Daily budget breakdown across three tiers — so you can realistically plan your Patagonia trip before you book anything.
Patagonia, Argentina travel budget
Realistic daily cost per person across three spending tiers. All figures in USD.
Budget
Hostels, street food, public transit
Hostel dorm beds or basic guesthouses.
Self-catering, empanadas, local bakeries, and simple parrillas.
Long-distance buses between towns, local buses where available.
Hiking in national parks (entrance fees apply), exploring towns on foot.
Snacks, water, small souvenirs.
Mid-range
3-star hotels, mix of restaurants, some taxis
Comfortable hotels, B&Bs, or private rooms in Airbnb.
Mix of casual restaurants, cafes, and some nicer parrillas.
Buses, occasional taxis for shorter distances, possibly a rental car for a day.
Guided day hikes, boat trips (e.g., to see glaciers), park entrance fees.
Coffee, snacks, moderate souvenirs, tips.
Luxury
4-5 star hotels, premium dining, private transfers
High-end hotels, luxury lodges, or exclusive estancias.
Fine dining, tasting menus, premium wines.
Private transfers, rental car for extended periods, potentially small flights.
Private guided tours, helicopter tours, horseback riding, premium glacier treks.
Premium souvenirs, spa treatments, higher tips.
Destination-specific money tips
- •Always carry more cash (ARS) than you think you'll need, as card acceptance can be unreliable outside major tourist hubs.
- •Withdrawals from ATMs in Argentina often incur high fees from both your bank and the local bank; try to find ATMs affiliated with Banelco or Red Link for potentially lower fees.
- •While USD is sometimes accepted, the exchange rate can be very unfavorable; it's generally better to exchange USD to ARS at a reputable casa de cambio or use your card where accepted.
- •Tipping 10% in restaurants is customary if service isn't already included, but check your bill.
- •Some activities, especially guided tours and park entrance fees, are priced in USD or have a significant portion payable in USD, even if advertised in ARS.