Discovering Argentina: A Journey Through My Homeland with Exoticca

Exploring Buenos Aires with my amazing travel group — where the adventure began!

🇦🇷 A Journey Home

This trip to Argentina wasn’t just another tour — it was a homecoming. I had the incredible opportunity to host a small group through my homeland, experiencing it both as a traveler and as a local. Before joining our official Exoticca tour, we spent a day exploring Buenos Aires like true Porteños, discovering corners of the city most visitors never see.

🏙️ Buenos Aires Like a Local

Buenos Aires through local eyes — faith, art, flavors, and friendship. 

Our local host, Dina, has been a family friend for over 30 years. She welcomed us into her world — the heart of Buenos Aires. We began our day at the Basilica María Auxiliadora in Caballito, a beautiful Lombard-Romanesque church built in the early 1900s by Italian architect Ernesto Vespignani, it reflects the deep Italian influence that shaped much of Buenos Aires’ history and architecture. We arrived in the middle of Mass, and our guests were able to participate and soak in the local atmosphere.

Afterward, we took the subway and bus, just like locals do, toward La Boca, the city’s most colorful neighborhood. Before that, we made a stop at Colón Fábrica, a fascinating museum that exhibits the original stage sets, costumes, and scenography used at the legendary Teatro Colón. Walking among these massive backdrops and intricate props gave us a whole new appreciation for the artistry and talent behind Argentina’s most iconic theater.

Before continuing, Dina invited us to her apartment for a home-cooked Argentine lunch — the kind of meal you can only enjoy when you’re welcomed like family. Over tea and homemade sweets, she shared stories about local traditions before we continued to Galerías Pacífico, Plaza San Martín, and Recoleta.

We wandered through elegant streets, admired the architecture, and ended our day at El Sanjuanino, a local favorite known for its empanadas. Even though we were in one of the city’s most upscale neighborhoods, the restaurant kept its humble charm — a perfect reminder that authenticity always shines through.

🎶 A Day of Culture, History & Tango 

A day filled with Buenos Aires’ art, history, and the spirit of Tango.

The next morning, our official Exoticca tour began. We were picked up in a private, comfortable van for a panoramic city tour of Buenos Aires.

We explored the city’s most iconic neighborhoods — Palermo, Recoleta, San Telmo, La Boca, and Puerto Madero — each bursting with character. From the Casa Rosada and Metropolitan Cathedral to the gleaming Floralis Genérica, a giant metallic flower symbolizing renewal and hope, its petals open each morning to greet the day and close at sunset — a living monument to the city’s creativity and spirit.

Earlier in our trip, we explored Colón Fábrica, home to the original stage sets and costumes of the world-famous Teatro Colón. But nothing compared to stepping inside the theater itself after our city tour — its golden balconies, sparkling chandeliers, and extraordinary acoustics are truly breathtaking, a masterpiece that reflects Argentina’s artistic soul.

That evening, we dove into one of the country’s greatest traditions: Tango. We started with a fun beginner’s class (my very first one, believe it or not!) and ended with dinner and a spectacular live show featuring talented dancers, musicians, and singers. The music, emotion, and artistry truly capture the spirit of Argentina.

🏔️ Patagonia’s Magic: El Calafate & the Perito Moreno Glacier

Patagonia’s icy dreams — glaciers, lakes, and pure awe.

From the energy of Buenos Aires, we flew south to El Calafate, a cozy Patagonian town surrounded by stunning landscapes. After settling into our charming hotel, we strolled through town and tried the local specialties — especially the famous Patagonian lamb.

The next morning brought one of the highlights of the entire trip: the Perito Moreno Glacier. Seeing this natural wonder in person was beyond words. The sun was shining, the air crisp, and the glacier alive — we watched in awe as massive chunks of ice broke off and crashed into the turquoise waters below.

The following day, we joined a Glacier Cruise, sailing through the icy channels of Patagonia to witness the towering Upsala, Spegazzini, and Herminita glaciers. From the deck, we admired their massive ice walls in shades of blue and white, each one sculpted by time and nature. Inside the warm cabin, we enjoyed hot drinks and panoramic views — a surreal, peaceful experience that reminded us of nature’s immense beauty and strength.

🌈 The Wonder of Iguazú Falls

Iguazú’s wild beauty — waterfalls, rainbows, and life all around.

Next, we headed north to the tropics — to the border of Argentina and Brazil — to witness one of the New Seven Natural Wonders of the World: Iguazú Falls.

On our first day, we explored the Brazilian side, enjoying wide panoramic views and feeling the mist on our faces. The next day, we visited the Argentine side, walking along elevated trails that brought us right above the cascades. Standing at the Devil’s Throat viewpoint, we could feel the raw power of the water — it’s one of those moments you never forget.

Before flying back home, we made one last special stop at the Wanda Mines, a site famous for its natural quartz and amethyst. Our private guided tour through the mine was fascinating — seeing these glittering gems in their raw form was the perfect way to end the trip.

💌 Until Next Time, Argentina

Ten days, endless memories — Argentina stole our hearts.

Our 10-day journey through Argentina with Exoticca was unforgettable. From city rhythms and cultural discoveries to glaciers, waterfalls, and hidden gems, every moment was crafted with care.

Starting the trip with Dina made it even more special — she showed us what it means to experience Argentina from the inside out. And Exoticca ensured that every transfer, guide, and detail ran smoothly, allowing us to simply enjoy and connect with the places and people around us.

Argentina has so much more to offer, and I can’t wait to go back — maybe next time with you! Whether you’re dreaming of seeing Patagonia’s icy giants, feeling the mist of Iguazú, or dancing Tango in Buenos Aires, this journey can be yours too.

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