Buenos Aires

One of Latin America’s most populous capitals, Buenos Aires hugs the coast of the immense Rio de la Plata estuary and sprawls inland across the flat pampas grasslands. With around 14 million inhabitants and a dense concentration of lofty skyscrapers, the city can seem overwhelming at first, but you’ll rapidly blend in and find yourself revelling in one of the most attractive cities in the world.

Given its compact centre, you can easily access the majority of the highlights. This fascinating city and its curious inhabitants are easily loveable and a stay here is a must. Your biggest problem will be not wanting to leave. 

The denizens of this metropolis are the result of one of the New World’s most fascinating cultural melting pots. Porteños (from the port) have been described as "Italians, who speak Spanish, believe they are French, but would like to be British", which goes some way to explain these fun-loving people!

Much like New York, Buenos Aires has received swathes of immigrants over the decades from far and wide; cultures such as French, Armenian, Jewish, Syrian, Prussian and British have hybridized into Porteño, with the dominant two being Italian and Spanish. Locals have their own idioms, hand gestures,and an infectious vitality: no wonder they invented Tango. 

Buenos Aires is both a city and a province - things can get confusing. The city, known as Capital Federal, is the federal capital of the country, with its own legislature and governor, similar to Washington DC in the USA. Bordering the city is the province of the same name, so yes, Buenos Aires borders Buenos Aires.

Whilst the city of Buenos Aires is about the size of Patagonia’s Perito Moreno glacier (80 square miles), the province is vast, about the size of Britain and Portugal combined. Both the city and province sit in the pampas, one of the world's largest prairies stretching for hundreds of miles inland, and home to the legendary gaucho or Argentine cowboy.     

Argentina’s economic hey-day may have been about 100 years ago, but the legacy from the Belle Époque still remains strong, not only in the city’s architecture, but also in the locals' mindset. Witness the elegant palaces from this era, classic cafés, one of the oldest metro systems in the world, beautifully manicured parks and amazing wide avenues with a real European flair. 

The 20th century has not always been Argentina's proudest era, you will hear of some turbulent historical events from fascinating local guides. However, the essence of this beautiful city remains strong and the spirit of its people is as authentic as they are passionate, making a stay here a truly beguiling experience. 

The city has around 50 barrios or districts, each with its own distinct character. The elegant Recoleta is reminiscent of beautiful Paris, whilst the vast Palermo district with a more bohemian feel, is easily explored on foot and has the most impressive array of restaurants. 

Downtown or Microcentro bustles with commuters during the day and contains many of the city's iconic sights but can be quite desolate outside of working hours. San Telmo is the historic centre of the city, with a relaxed hipster vibe, cobbled streets and and plenty of cool cafés for hanging out. Sunday’s flea market attracts both tourists and locals taking in the carnival atmosphere and street food.    

We have crafted an ample variety of small group and private experiences for all types of traveller looking for something different to do in this fascinating city. Swoop’s city highlights experience with an Antarctic twist will enlighten you about a fascinating, little-known Antarctic heritage site in the centre of the city. A hidden gem for any polar traveler. 

Discover the city by bike, take food-themed walking tours, or enjoy cooking experiences - with other travellers or in more intimate surroundings. Be wowed with street-art interpretation walks off the beaten track. For those wanting to add a touch of glamour to their stay, we have selected a top tango show; a classic evening outing filled with elegance and style.

Away from the hustle and bustle, we have selected day-escapes to discover the diverse and varied landscapes that the region offers. Visit neighbouring Uruguay for the day and explore the beautiful town of Colonia de Sacramento. The fascinating Tigre delta is largely unknown to most foreign travellers and can be explored by boat or kayak, at your own pace. 

No stay in Buenos Aires would be complete without experiencing the vastness of the pampas, with its rich gaucho folklore. Enjoy a day on an estancia (ranch) or better still, why not spend a night or two immersing yourself in the Argentine countryside? 

Buenos Aires has a mesmerising number and variety of hotels. From glamourous high-end palaces to cute boutique options, and well-known international chains. There is something for everyone.  Follow the link to read more about Swoop’s shortlisted Buenos Aires hotels, selected for your perfect stay in the city either before or after your trip to Antarctica.