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Argentina

Argentina: Urban Jungles and Patagonian Peaks

13 days | Ages 15-19 | Summer 2026 | Fully Supervised | 4.9 on GoOverseas | International flights not included

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This program takes you through three distinct worlds of Argentina travel: the urban energy of Buenos Aires, the raw power of Iguazu Falls, and the mountain majesty of Patagonia, including the iconic Perito Moreno Glacier. You’ll push your limits with hands-on adventure; cycle city parks, kayak the Tigre Delta, trek among Andean peaks, and raft glacier-fed rivers. Connect with Argentina’s culture, from tango lessons and gaucho traditions to local street art and chocolate workshops. Explore natural wonders and urban neighborhoods while building friendships and lasting memories with your group.

Program Tuition

$8,695

Excluding flights.
Financial aid and scholarships available.

Summer sessions typically fill by March

No departures scheduled

Scott Ingram

Scott Ingram

Director of Admissions

At Rustic since 2018

What Does a 13-Day Program Include?

A typical program. Daily activities are subject to change based on group logistics and weather.

1

Departure & Group Orientation

Arrive at JFK airport where you'll meet your Rustic Pathways Flight Leader, who will help get you checked in and through security before your international flights to Argentina. Get acquainted with fellow adventurers and share your excitement about exploring three completely different regions of this South America adventure. Rest up on the flight , you'll need your energy for what's ahead in the eighth-largest country in the world!
2

Buenos Aires Arrival & City Welcome

Touch down in Buenos Aires, Argentina, the "Paris of South America," where your Program Leaders greet you with warm smiles and that famous Argentine enthusiasm. We'll head to our centrally-located hotel in Buenos Aires city and after settling in, dive straight into the vibrant streets of Palermo for a welcome lunch of empanadas and your first taste of dulce de leche. Tonight, we'll explore the colorful neighborhood of La Boca and bond over dinner while street performers tango near Florida Street.
3

Buenos Aires Culture & Activity

Today we discover why Buenos Aires pulses with such incredible energy as we visit Argentina's cultural heart. We'll bike through the Ecological Reserve in the morning, then experience the passion of Argentine football culture with a tour of the legendary La Bombonera stadium. After lunch in one of South America's major cities, harness your creativity with a street art workshop led by local artists. Tonight, you'll learn basic tango moves in a fun, teens-only class in one of the safest tourist zones; no pressure, just laughs!
4

Tigre Delta Exploration

Adventure calls as we escape the city for the Tigre Delta in Buenos Aires Province. Navigate the river channels by boat with fully licensed operators meeting international standards, then grab paddles for kayaking through this unique ecosystem. After a riverside asado (BBQ) lunch, we'll try stand-up paddleboarding and explore river communities. Return to pack up; tomorrow we take domestic flights north to one of the world's natural wonders!
5

Iguazu Falls – Argentina Side

Early morning flight to Iguazu Falls in northeast Argentina, where the thundering sound greets you before you even see the water. After checking into our eco-lodge near this National Park, we head straight to the Argentine side of the falls. Walk the elevated trails to Devil's Throat, where 275 waterfalls converge in a spectacular display of nature's power. Keep your cameras ready; toucans, coatis, and butterflies are everywhere in these protected tourist areas! Tonight, share photos and stories over dinner at the lodge.
6

Iguazu Falls – Brazil Side & Flight to Mendoza

Cross the border crossings into Brazil for panoramic views of the falls, then brace yourself for the Macuco Safari, a boat ride that takes you right under the cascading water. You WILL get soaked, and you'll love every second! The tri-border area between Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay offers unique cultural experiences. After drying off, visit the Bird Park for up-close encounters with tropical species. Evening flight to Mendoza puts us at the foot of the Andes in northwest Argentina.
7

Andes Mountains & Gaucho Culture

Wake up to snow-capped Andean peaks surrounding our adventure lodge. Today we ease into mountain life with rock climbing lessons on beginner-friendly routes with certified guides following Argentine law for adventure activities. After conquering your first climb, we'll visit Potrerillos Dam for stunning views and learn about gaucho culture from local horseback guides. Tonight's group reflection happens around a bonfire under the starriest sky you've ever seen.
8

Aconcagua National Park Trek

Epic Argentina travel adventure day! We journey into Aconcagua National Park to trek with views of the Americas' highest peak. The landscape feels like another planet, with colorful mineral deposits, ancient rock formations, and the famous Puente del Inca natural bridge. After our mountain picnic in these remote areas, brave souls can try ice-cold glacier water hand-washing. Back at the lodge, we'll share trail mix recipes and adventure stories.
9

Rafting, Horseback, & Transfer to Bariloche

Adrenaline junkies, this one's for you on your trip to Argentina! Morning white water rafting on the Mendoza River gets your heart pumping and team spirit soaring. After drying off and warming up with hot chocolate, we'll saddle up for an afternoon horseback ride through Andean foothills in rural areas, ending with a traditional asado prepared by genuine gauchos. Evening flight to Bariloche; save room for chocolate!
10

Bariloche – Lakes & Chocolate

Welcome to the Lake District and Northern Patagonia! Bariloche greets us with Alpine architecture and crystal-clear lakes. We'll take the cable car up Cerro Catedral for jaw-dropping views, then jump into the town's famous chocolate scene with a hands-on workshop where you'll create your own treats. Afternoon luge track adventures provide thrills with views. Tonight, get ready for tomorrow's big adventure day!
11

Choose Your Adventure in Patagonia

Choose your own adventure day in this stunning part of South America! Option A: Trek to a mountain refugio with expert guides. Option B: Mountain biking through forest trails plus afternoon kayaking. Option C: Zip-line canopy tour plus rock climbing. All activities meet international standards for safety. Whichever you choose, we'll all meet at a secret swimming spot – yes, the glacier-fed lake is cold, but the bragging rights last forever! Evening celebration dinner features Patagonian lamb and folk music.
12

Waterfalls, Playa Bonita & Closing Ceremony

Our last full day of travel in Argentina adventures brings gorgeous horseback riding to hidden waterfalls, where we'll eat lunch with a view that belongs on postcards. We'll monitor local media for weather conditions before heading out. Afternoon beach time at Playa Bonita lets you skip stones, play volleyball, or just soak in the incredible landscape near the southern tip of the continent. Tonight's Rustic Ties closing ceremony happens lakeside, where we'll reflect on our journey from urban streets to mountain peaks, and the friendships forged along the way.
13

Return Home

Slow morning with one last chance to stock up on alfajores and artisan chocolates. Your Program Leaders accompany you to the airport, assisting with check-in and ensuring all participants have necessary travel documents. For the flight to Buenos Aires and your international connection, we'll make sure everyone's ready for departure. You'll head home with memory cards full of photos, journals full of stories, and hearts full of Argentine adventure. Che, what an incredible journey through Argentina!

How Does Rustic Pathways Handle Safety?

24/7 Support

In-person staff + US emergency line

7:1 Student-to-Leader Ratio

Background-checked, first-aid certified, deep local knowledge

Licensed & Insured Transport

Risk management plans for every program

Gender-Separated

Rooms with staff on site

Argentina

What Do Parents Ask?

How do flights work?

Students join a chaperoned group flight from a U.S. gateway airport. A Rustic Pathways Flight Leader travels with the group. International students arrange independent flights and Rustic Pathways coordinates airport pickup.

What's included in the price?

Included: Lodging, all meals, in-country transport, all activities, 24/7 staff.
Not included: International airfare, travel insurance, personal spending ($150–200).

Do you offer financial aid or scholarships?

Yes. Monthly payment plans are available for all families, and Rustic Pathways offers both need-based financial aid and merit scholarships. Explore scholarships and financial aid

Is travel insurance required?

Travel insurance is not included in the program fee. Rustic Pathways recommends that families purchase travel insurance. Get a quote from our recommended provider →

Who's supervising my child?

Rustic Pathways Program Leaders complete a four-month vetting process, and programs maintain a 7:1 student-to-staff ratio. All Program Leaders are first-aid certified, and most have led multiple Rustic Pathways programs. Leaders range from 25 to 35 years old.

Are rooms gender-separated?

Yes. Students room with same-gender peers. Staff stay in adjacent rooms.

What about medical emergencies?

All Program Leaders are first-aid certified. Nearest hospitals are mapped out in all locations. Our health & safety team reviews all medical forms before departure and works with families to plan medications, allergies, and dietary needs.

Can I reach my child?

Yes. Students can call, text, or WhatsApp during free time. Parents can reach Rustic Pathways’ 24/7 emergency line at any time.

How will I know they're okay?

Parents receive daily photo updates throughout the program from staff on the ground.

What is the phone/device policy?

Students may bring phones but cannot use them during group activities or meals. Wi-Fi is available at most accommodations.

How big is the group and how old are the participants?

Groups are typically 12-20 students per session. Students are ages 14-18, with most being 15-17.

Can international (non-U.S.) students join this program?

Yes. Students from 50+ countries join Rustic Pathways programs each year. International students book their own flights and Rustic Pathways coordinates airport pickup.

Do students come with friends, or on their own?

Most students travel solo without knowing anyone. Program Leaders run ice-breakers on day one, and friendships form quickly. Friends are welcome to enroll together.

What is the accommodation like?

Students stay in locally operated lodging with shared rooms accommodating 2-4 students. Accommodations include private bathrooms and common areas.

Can friends room together?

Yes. Roommate requests are accepted during enrollment.

Will my child have unsupervised time?

Students have structured independence during free-time blocks with staff always nearby. There is no unsupervised time in public areas.

Can you accommodate dietary needs & food allergies?

Yes. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and common food allergies are accommodated with advance notice. Dietary needs are collected during enrollment.

How much spending money?

$150-200 recommended for souvenirs and incidentals. Tipping is included in the program fee.

Do we need a visa?

Visa requirements vary by passport and destination. Contact a Rustic Pathways travel advisor for guidance specific to your student’s nationality.

What if my child gets homesick?

Homesickness is common in the first few days. Rustic Pathways staff are trained to support students through it. Read more about managing homesickness

Do you support neurodiverse students?

Rustic Pathways welcomes all students and works with families to provide appropriate support. Learn about Rustic Pathways’ approach to inclusion

What Should Parents Know?

Which students thrive on this program?
Students who are curious, adaptable, and open to new experiences. No prior travel experience is required.
What will students do each day?
Each day includes a mix of structured activities, cultural experiences, and group time. See the itinerary above for a day-by-day overview.

Argentina offers a unique combination of cultural richness, safety, and meaningful engagement opportunities for student groups. Rustic Pathways has operated programs here for years and maintains strong local partnerships.

Meals: All meals are included. Local cuisine is featured throughout the program. Dietary needs are accommodated with advance notice.

What is the refund policy?
View terms & conditions

Included:

  • All lodging
  • All meals
  • In-country transport
  • All activities and excursions
  • 24/7 staff support

Not included:

  • International airfare
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal spending money

What Other Program Types Are Available?