Useful Information

Although the Argentine Peso is the official currency, numerous shops accept dollars. It is convenient for visitors to exchange money in Banks (Mon-Friday 10:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M.) or in a official bureau of change. In most of the commercial centers, bars, restaurants, etc. credit cards such as American Express, Master Card, Visa and Diners are accepted.

The main airline companies in the world fly to Argentina. The great majority arrive at the International Airport, Ministro Pistarini, situated in Ezeiza, 35 kilometers from the city center. You will be able to choose between different means of transport but for safety reasons we recommend a private car (“remis”) or radio taxi. BA Total also offers a private pick-up service on request.

It is important to bear in mind when packing your luggage that in the southern hemisphere the seasons are opposite to the north. Below you will find useful information regarding the different temperatures during the year as to know what to wear. In Argentina the high seasons are January and February (summer vacations) and July (winter vacations).

Foreign tourists of neighboring countries only need a document to enter. Visitors of other countries must present their passport and in some cases also a Visa upon entering Argentina. Consult your embassy for more information. Certificate of vaccination is not required except for visitors who come from countries where cholera and yellow fever are endemic.

If the visitor has acquired national products for more than $70 (per invoice) in commercial shops that are under this system (search for the logo on the window shop) 21% of its VAT will be reimbursed in the airport. Remember to ask for the reimbursement check together with the invoice.

According to Argentinean customs a 10% of the amount spent is left as a tip in restaurants, bars, hotels, etc.

• Argentinean official time is 3 hours less than that of Greenwich Mean Time.
• The electricity runs in 220 v (volts) and 50 Hz (Hertz)

Public telephones work with Argentineans coins. You can also find telephone agencies (“locutorios”) that are opened during 24 hours where you can pay in cash.

• To make international calls you must dial 00 + country area code + city area code + local number.
• To call Argentina from abroad you must dial 54 + city area code, that for the case of Buenos Aires is 11, + local number.

• Firemen: 100
• Federal Police: 101
• Civil Defense: 103
• Medical Emergencies: 107
• Official Time: 113
• Intoxications: 0800-333-0160
• Argentine Navy Force: 106
• Telephone Information: 110
• National Operator: 19
• International Operator: 000
• Argentina Airports:
  Aut. Tte.Gral. Ricchieri S/N
  Tel.: 5480-6111
• Jorge Newbery Airport:
  R. Obligado S/N
  Tel.: 4514-1515/23 (Mon-Fri, 8 am / 9 pm)
• Retiro Bus Station:
  Av. Antártida Argentina and Calle 10
  Tel.: (011) 4310-0700
• Secretary of Tourism of the Nation:
  Av. Santa Fé 883, (1059) Buenos Aires
  Tel.: 4312-2232 or 0-800-555-0016 (free call).
• Subways: 0800-555-1616
• Trains: 0800-333-3822 / 0800-666-3587