Must-Have Travel Apps and Tools for Visiting Argentina

Traveling around Argentina can be a fantastic experience, but having the right tools can make everything smoother. Whether you need help navigating, translating, or finding the best places to stay, these apps have got you covered.

Maps.Me

Maps.Me is a fantastic offline map app. It’s perfect for traveling in Argentina where you may not always have reliable internet. Download the maps of the regions you’re visiting before heading out, and you can access detailed, easy-to-use maps with hiking trails and walking routes, all without needing data. Better yet, it’s free.

Google Maps

Google Maps is still one of the best navigation tools out there. It’s great for driving directions, walking routes, and finding nearby restaurants or landmarks. In most cities in Argentina, public transportation information is integrated, making it easier to get around using buses or trains. You can also download offline maps in advance if you know you won’t have internet. The app is free to use.

Moovit

If you want to get around by local transportation, Moovit is a must. The app shows you public transit routes, including buses, subways, and trains in major Argentine cities like Buenos Aires and Córdoba. It gives real-time tracking so you know when the next bus or subway is arriving. This is super helpful if you’re not familiar with how local buses work. Moovit is free and works in multiple cities around the country.

Uber

Uber is available in Buenos Aires and some other Argentine cities, and it’s a convenient way to get around without needing to figure out local taxis. The prices are usually more transparent and fair compared to some cab drivers who may charge more if you look like a tourist. You can link your credit card so you don’t have to worry about exchanging too much cash (or getting stuck without a ride when you’re low on pesos). However, keep in mind that Uber sometimes faces legal hurdles here, so it’s always good to check local updates.

Cabify

Cabify operates similarly to Uber but sometimes is considered more reliable in Argentina. It works well in Buenos Aires and a few other cities. The app allows you to track your ride, estimate your fare, and pay directly through the app, so you don’t need to carry a lot of local currency. It’s great for getting around if public transportation isn’t running or you just want a more private ride.

Google Translate

Spanish is the primary language in Argentina, and while many people in the bigger cities speak English, it can be rare in smaller towns or more rural areas. Google Translate will be your best friend here. One great feature is the ability to download offline language packs, so even if you’re in a remote area with no signal, you can still translate. You can also use the camera feature to translate menus or signs on the go. It’s free, and it’s really practical for when you’re in a language bind.

Duolingo

If you want to learn or practice your Spanish before or during your trip, Duolingo is a great app. It’s free and has short, simple lessons to help you get the basics down. You’ll find it especially helpful when asking for directions, ordering in restaurants, or chatting with locals. While it won’t make you fluent, it’s a really good way to brush up on key phrases before you hit the streets.

Currency 📱 XE Currency

XE Currency is the go-to app for real-time exchange rates. Argentina’s economy can be a bit volatile, and exchange rates fluctuate often. XE lets you track that, convert any foreign currency into pesos, and see live updates. It’s a crucial tool, especially if you’re exchanging large sums or just want to know what you’re paying for. It’s also free.

Airbnb

Airbnb is always a good option if you prefer to stay in apartments or unique accommodation. Staying in an apartment can often be cheaper compared to hotels, and it allows you to cook or stay in quieter, more local areas. You can find everything from budget apartments to homes in top-class locations in Buenos Aires, Mendoza, and more. Just make sure to read the reviews carefully!

Booking.com

If you’re more into traditional-style accommodation, Booking.com is a great option. The app has plenty of hotels, hostels, and guesthouses across Argentina. It’s easy to search by budget, see what’s available last minute, and compare reviews. You can often get discounts or the option to cancel for free. It’s a reliable choice, especially for last-minute bookings.

Rome2Rio

Argentina is a big country, and Rome2Rio is perfect for figuring out how to get from one place to another. Whether you need to find the best way to travel between Buenos Aires and Bariloche or Mendoza and Iguazú Falls, Rome2Rio shows all your transport options. It includes buses, flights, and trains, so you can compare and choose what’s best for your budget and timing.

SkyScanner

SkyScanner is one of the best flight comparison tools out there. It’s ideal if you’re traveling long distances inside Argentina, as domestic flights are often the fastest way to go. You can filter by price, airlines, and layover times to find the flight that fits you best. The app is free to use and keeps track of price changes, so you can book when the price is low.

Omio

If you’re looking for an easy way to buy bus tickets, Omio is super handy. Buses are a cheap and natural way to travel across Argentina, especially for longer distances like Mendoza to Buenos Aires. Omio allows you to compare schedules, prices, and book tickets directly from your phone. It’s like having a full travel agency in your pocket!

Personal Travel Assistant 📱 TripIt

If you want to keep all your travel plans organized in one place, TripIt is a great solution. You can forward all your booking confirmations (flights, hotels, tours) to the app, and TripIt automatically organizes them into an easy-to-read itinerary. That way, you can access all the information from one spot without having to search for different emails every time. The basic version is free, but the paid version can alert you about flight delays and gate changes.

If you don’t already use WhatsApp, you’ll find it crucial in Argentina. Locals often use the app for communicating since it’s the easiest way to text, call, or share photos for free over Wi-Fi. Many businesses, like hostels or tour companies, prefer to use WhatsApp for communication too. Make sure to download it beforehand, and it’s free to use.

Oanda

Similar to XE Currency, Oanda gives you up-to-date exchange rates. However, it also displays a more specific breakdown of what you’d get after currency conversion fees. This can be super helpful when exchanging money at local banks or using currency services with hidden fees in Argentina. It’s worth comparing rates so you can get the most Argentine pesos for your money.

Google Lens

Another cool app is Google Lens, which lets you point your phone’s camera at pretty much anything (signs, monuments, or natural wonders), and it gives you information about it. For those curious about street artwork, historic signs, or displays in museums that might not have English explanations, this app comes in handy. It’s free and works well without loading up too much extra travel weight.

PackPoint

If packing stresses you out, PackPoint can help. Enter your destination, date of travel, and the length of your stay, and the app generates a personalized packing list based on the weather forecast and activities you have planned. It’s like having a travel assistant that reminds you about gear you might forget. While the free version works well, you can upgrade to get cloud syncing and more options.

Conclusion

From finding your way with offline maps to making sure you get great rates when converting cash, these apps will help you stay organized and stress-free while traveling in Argentina. Download a few that fit your needs (or all of them) to ensure your trip is as hassle-free as possible. Whether it’s navigating Buenos Aires, heading off the beaten path, or finding the best bus across the country, these tools will help you every step of the way.