8 Interesting Facts About Argentina

Why do you travel? Is it for the escape? Or the exotic allure of the unknown? Perhaps you go for the memorable and rare thrill of seeing the world through new eyes, as you never have before? Whether you’re looking for mighty and surreal landscapes, an authentic glimpse into history, or exotic wildlife, Argentina’s got it all.

From the towering Andes to the monstrous glaciers of Patagonia, the chic sophistication of Buenos Aires, or the rustic charms of the Pampas, prepare to be amazed. Ready to learn more about this fascinating South American nation? Let’s go!

1. A Massive Nation

Did you know that Argentina is the largest country in South America after Brazil? Or that it’s the eighth-largest country in the world? To the west, the Andes mountains tower creating a rugged border with Chile that measure 22,841 feet (6,962 meters) high at Mount Aconcagua, the highest peak in the western hemisphere. To the east, it’s bordered by the Atlantic Ocean, and to the north, the country shares borders with Bolivia, Paraguay, Brazil, and Uruguay.

2. The Breadbasket of the World

Heading east from the Andes, Argentina’s interior contains flat, fertile grasslands known as the Pampas. This area represents the rural heartland of Argentina, the perfect location for agricultural pursuits like farming, ranching, and winemaking. Argentina and Brazil are both massive exporters of agricultural commodities and have worked hard to gain South America the reputation of being the breadbasket of the world. Argentina is the leading supplier to the EU and also has trade agreements with China and India to supply them with crops.

3. Abundant Sea Life

Located off the southeast coast of Argentina in the South Atlantic Ocean, you’ll find the Argentine Sea. About 500 miles north of Antarctica, it’s one of the biggest seas in the world, covering a surface area of 390,000 square miles. It contains a vast array of wildlife, from salmon and dolphins to sharks, orcas, elephant seals, fur seals, sea lions, and penguins. You can also find whales in these waters, including the Humpback whale, Blue whale, and Southern Right whale.

4. Exotic Wildlife

Argentina hosts a diverse range of wildlife because of its varied and unique habitats and terrain, ranging from deserts to mountains, grasslands, and marshes. In the north, keep an eye out for toucans, turtles, flamingos, tortoises, caimans, and crocodiles. This area is also known for big cats such as ocelots. In the southern Patagonia region, the animal parade continues with condors, penguins, herons, pumas, tortoises, guanacos, armadillos, and more.

5. The Paris of South America

The third most populous country in South America after Brazil and Colombia, Argentina ranks 33rd globally. With a population of more than 43 million people, the vast majority are of European descent. Around 95 percent of the nation’s residents trace their roots to Italy, Spain, and Germany. Nearly half of this population lives in or around Buenos Aires, which is often referred to as the “Paris of South America” because of its gorgeous, European-influenced architecture, sophisticated fashion, and chic boutiques.

6. Cowboy Up

Like cowboys in America, gauchos have become a national symbol of Argentina. They also remain symbolic of the rugged lifestyle lived by those on the open plains of the Pampas region. Devoted to raising cattle, they remain proficient horsemen and can lasso and rope with the best of them. Today, they continue to embody Argentina’s legendary past while blazing new trails.

7. Football Crazed

Football (a.k.a. soccer) is an all-encompassing past time and the most popular sport in Argentina. The country has produced legends of the game such as Lionel Messi and Diego Maradona, and the Argentina national team won the FIFA World Cup in 1978 and 1986. They were runners-up in 1930, 1990, and 2014.

8. Famous Women of Argentina

In 1946, Jose Perón became the president of Argentina as a result of his popularity with working-class voters. His wife, Eva, created a foundation to distribute money and benefits to the poor. She understood the needs of locals, having been born into an impoverished family in the rural village of Los Toldos in the Pampas. She used her influential role to campaign for women’s suffrage and ran the first large-scale female political party, the Women’s Peronist Party, too. Although she died from cancer at age 33, Eva Perón had a significant influence on the international front, even becoming the subject of the musical Evita (1976) by Andrew Lloyd Weber.

Interesting Facts About Argentina

An expansive nation of rolling grasslands, towering mountains, and ancient glaciers, traveling Argentina with kids means there’s something for everyone. From abundant sea and wildlife to legendary football players and a vibrant history featuring figures like Evita, you’ll find many things to cherish about this lovely land. Learn more about our Argentina Family Vacation, a spectacular journey into the heart of this awe-inspiring land.

At Our Whole Village, we craft transformational trips for curious families who want to create lasting memories while making a difference. We’re here to help you and your family experience the world, its people, and its cultures. Contact us today to learn more about the unforgettable journeys that we curate for adventure-seeking families just like yours.