Argentina OR Chile?
The Basics
It is hard to be put into a position to say which country I think is better because they are both amazing, and there’s been a long friendly rivalry between these two. Both of these countries are proud of their culture and how they can show off their style to the world.
Argentina brags about having the best beef in the world, tango, waterfalls and striking glaciers. In Chile they boast about being the prettier country with their volcanoes, deserts, and beaches. What makes these two countries special are that they are so similar in terrain and landscape, snow-capped mountains to impressive volcanoes, majestic glaciers to immense deserts, wine regions to thriving capital cities, choosing between these equally enticing countries can be a tough decision. One of the most convincing reasons to visit either Chile or Argentina is the opportunities each offers for viewing spectacular scenery. However, there are some natural wonders that are unique to each place.
Choosing between each country is a matter of preference. A variety of factors are worth considering, including how much time you have, the size of your budget, and your particular interests, both culturally and naturally.
FOOD
Argentina’s steak scene is second to none largely due to their huge cattle industry. With a plethora of steakhouses across the country, food is a major part of daily life. Even though it seems heavy, eating traditional parilla (steak) for lunch is not uncommon in Argentina. If you really want to immerse yourself in Argentinian culture, combine these gourmet experiences with a private tango lesson.
Argentina is home to some of the best steak in the world, and Chile is known more for its seafood. Argentina is a popular foodie destination and you could spend your whole time discovering new dishes and food items.
WIN: ARGENTINA
Wine
Argentina’s Mendoza is one of the most beautiful wine regions on the planet. It’s a prime area for vine growing due to the almost constant sunshine and water supplied by the run-off from the Andes Mountains. They are known best for the reds they grow, as the climate lends itself to growing varieties such as Malbec. Some of the most prestigious wineries in Argentina are located in the Central Valley or Primera Zone.
A good way to introduce yourself to Mendoza’s wine is on a private tour of wineries in the Central Valley. From boutique establishments to larger operations, you’ll be able to see the contrasts and differences between different wineries. After you finish a wine tour you can go to a gourmet tasting lunch at a local Bodega which is a great way to get an insight into Argentina’s food and wine culture.
Chile has seen both Spanish conquistadors and French immigrants, leading to the wine regions here becoming one of the largest and most important in the world. This region is perfect for lovers of both red and white, as cool coastal temperatures produce excellent Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling and Pinot Noir. After you then you can move on to explore the beautiful countryside either on foot or on horseback.
WIN: CHILE
Sports
Landscape
Torres del Paine National Park in Chile is a destination spot that will change your life. Filled with lakes, forests, rivers, glaciers and mountains, Chile offers the greener and wetter side of Patagonia. This park has some of the best hiking in the world and the chance to escape the many touristy trails and find a secluded spot. The epic views here are humbling, with the Paine Horns considered to be the most beautiful valley with magnificent glaciers and spectacular rock formations. Enter the world's driest desert Atacama, and you feel like a discoverer taking the first steps on Mars. This wild, sweeping terrain is like no other on earth. With volcano peaks, lagoons, salt lakes, star-littered skies and rust-coloured rock and sand as far as the eye can see, it's an incredible scene you can only find in Chile. Here group tours are more commonplace and there's a great choice of characteristic and luxury accommodation options.
In Argentina, Los Glaciares National Park is drier than its Chilean counterpart, the park is the kingdom of glaciers. Ice dominates the scene here, and it is a sight to behold with 2,600 square kilometres of ice fields with 47 glaciers.. In Argentina you can visit Igauzu fallsA must-see is the Cono de Arita, a mesmerising volcano jutting straight up from a pancake-flat salt field. Puna is one for the more adventurous, with tours only arranged with private guides and you can go hours without seeing another soul. Places to stay are basic and few and far between.
WIN: CHILE
FAVORITE CHOICE
Overall Chile is my favorite out of the two, I found Chile to be a little more diverse in terrain and things to do.
Santiago is one of the coolest cities that I have visited, this lively area definitely has a more easygoing pace and modern feel than Buenos Aires, and they claim to have the tallest building in Latin America. It's a great place for strolling, café hopping, visiting grand museums and unwinding in one of its hillside parks. Santiago is a good middle point in Chile to access sites nearby, from vineyards to national parks as well as the coast.
Money is something to consider when visiting either Argentina or Chile. Especially when coming from Bolivia, Chilean prices will come quite as a shock due to the high cost of living in the country. Its political and economic stability means that it is one of the most expensive South American countries. The prices of food and activities are comparable to the United States or countries in the European Nations.
Even though I love Chile more, I highly encourage you to take a trip to both and see which one you may prefer!