Blog
Expan Pro Blog

Expan Experience: Touring Buenos Aires, San Martín de los Andes and Mendoza

San Martín de los Andes

From Buenos Aires , one of South America 's most vibrant capitals , it's possible to embark on a journey that extends far beyond the Obelisk . The Argentine capital serves as a prime gateway to destinations as diverse as the Andean Patagonia or the Mendoza wine region .

This tour, which combines culture, nature, gastronomy and high-level activities, was the most recent trip to Argentina for Yarel Barra , Product Executive at Expan Tours , who narrates the details in this new edition of Expan Experience .

A FAM trip to explore Argentine destinations

The starting point was the Reverse Trade Mission – Visit Argentina , a familiarization trip (FAM) promoted by INPROTUR , which brought together about 30 participants from Brazil, Chile, Uruguay, Colombia, Mexico, Paraguay, Bolivia and the Dominican Republic .

The objective was clear: to strengthen the link between international buyers , Argentine companies and tourism organizations , while at the same time experiencing in-depth activities in three key destinations in the country .

“ It was a very enriching invitation, not only from a professional point of view, but also as a traveler . The FAM allowed me to get to know Argentina from different perspectives, connecting cities, landscapes and flavors .”

Buenos Aires
FAM in Argentina.

Buenos Aires: Culture, tango and urban life

The journey began in Buenos Aires , a city that combines history, architecture , and an unmistakable urban energy . Its iconic neighborhoods , vibrant cultural scene , and unique culinary identity make it an essential stop for any traveler visiting the country.

“ Buenos Aires surprised me with its diversity . Each neighborhood has its own character and its own history .”

Easter week
Buenos Aires.

During their stay, the group visited some of the city's most iconic landmarks . The Obelisk , the symbolic heart of the capital, marked the beginning of the city tour , followed by a stroll along Corrientes Street , the epicenter of theater and culture , and a visit to the La Boca neighborhood , with its tenement houses , street art , and strong identity linked to tango and football .

One of the most memorable moments was the dinner show at Café de los Angelitos , an experience that fuses gastronomy and entertainment : " Seeing live tango in such a traditional place was exciting. You can feel the passion and history in every dance ."

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Expan Tours (@expantours)

From Buenos Aires to San Martín de los Andes

After the urban experience, the journey continued towards northern Patagonia , specifically to San Martín de los Andes , a destination surrounded by lakes, mountains and forests that invites you to slow down and connect with nature .

" San Martín de los Andes exudes a special tranquility . The natural surroundings are breathtaking, and you feel a very strong connection with the landscape ."

Buenos Aires
Yarel Barra.

From there, several excursions were organized, allowing for an in-depth exploration of the region . One of these was a boat trip on Lake Lácar , where the mirror-like water and the mountains create unforgettable scenes .

" Sailing the lake was a very relaxing experience, ideal for appreciating the magnitude of the Patagonian landscape ."

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Expan Tours (@expantours)

Villa La Angostura and the Seven Lakes Route

Another highlight of the itinerary was the Seven Lakes Route , a scenic drive that connects San Martín de los Andes with Villa La Angostura and crosses some of the most photographed landscapes in the country : " It's a route that you enjoy kilometer by kilometer ; each lake has a different color and the surroundings are simply spectacular ."

Buenos Aires
Seven Lakes Route.

In Villa La Angostura , the group took a city tour that showcased its alpine architecture and tranquil lifestyle . They also visited the exclusive Hotel Las Balsas , a benchmark for luxury tourism in the area: " The hotel perfectly reflects the destination's identity : elegance, nature, and attention to detail ."

Villa la Angostura.

The experience was completed with a boat trip to Los Arrayanes National Park , home to a unique forest in the world : " Walking among the arrayanes was like being inside a fairy tale ; it is a magical place and very different from any other ."

Buenos Aires
Los Arrayanes National Park.

Mendoza: Wines, sunsets and flavors

The final leg of the trip took the group to Mendoza , a province internationally recognized for its wines and wine tourism offerings , but which also surprises with the quality of its gastronomy and the beauty of its Andean landscapes .

“ Mendoza has a special energy . Everything revolves around wine , but also around enjoyment , slower pace, and good food .”

Mendoza
Kaiken Winery.

The itinerary focused on visits to wineries , an olive grove , and a distillery , providing an in-depth look at local production . Highlights included the Kaiken winery , the Finca Savina winery , and the Doña Paula winery , where a tasting was served with snacks .

Mendoza
Savina Estate.

One of the most cherished moments was the sunset at Rosell Boher Lodge , an experience that combines sparkling wines, gastronomy and privileged views : " Watching the sunset among vineyards and mountains was simply unforgettable ."

Rosell Boher Lodge.

We also visited the Corazón de Lunlunta olive farm , where we learned about the olive oil production process , and The Williams Casanegra distillery , a different experience that allowed us to discover the world of artisanal spirits .

Tips for future travelers

From her experience , the traveler shares some key recommendations for those who wish to make a similar journey.

" Purchasing good travel insurance is essential , especially when visiting such different destinations ."

It also highlights the importance of not overloading the itinerary , booking hotels , domestic flights and popular experiences in advance , and enjoying the local cuisine , which is an essential part of the trip in each destination.

Buenos Aires
Gastronomy in Argentina.

“ Argentina has very varied climates , so it is key to be well informed before traveling and to bring the appropriate clothing .”

Finally, one suggestion is to opt for private excursions , especially sailing trips , to further enrich the experience .

A journey that demonstrates that, from Buenos Aires , it is possible to discover multiple Argentinas in a single trip .

You might also be interested in: Valentine's Day: 5 romantic getaways in Santiago and the surrounding area

No puedes copiar el contenido de esta página