Argentina, with its diverse landscapes and vibrant culture, is a dream destination for many travelers. But for some, the dream is to explore this beautiful country on their own terms, by van. Van life in Argentina offers a unique opportunity to experience the country’s natural beauty, rich history, and friendly people at your own pace.
Van life is possible in Argentina. However, it is important to be aware of the challenges and regulations before you embark on your journey.
Challenges of van life in Argentina:
- Argentina, a vast and magnificent country, possesses an expansive landscape that is characterized by numerous sparsely populated areas. Due to this geographical feature, one may encounter challenges when searching for suitable campsites, replenishing supplies, and undertaking necessary repairs for their beloved van.
Sparsely populated areas in Argentina
- Weather: Argentina has a wide variety of climates, from the hot and humid north to the cold and snowy south. Be sure to research the climate of the regions you plan to visit and prepare accordingly.
Cold and snowy south in Argentina
- Roads: Many of Argentina’s roads are in poor condition, especially in rural areas. Be prepared for potholes, rough terrain, and long stretches of gravel roads.
Poor quality roads in Argentina
- Safety: Petty theft is a problem in Argentina, especially in tourist areas. Take precautions to protect your belongings, such as locking your van and valuables when you leave them unattended.
Regulations for van life in Argentina:
- Camping: Wild camping is not allowed in most areas of Argentina. You must camp in designated campsites or with the permission of the landowner.
Designated campsites in Argentina
- Driving: You must have a valid driver’s license from your home country to drive in Argentina. You may also need an international driving permit.
- Insurance: It is important to have comprehensive insurance for your van, as accidents can be expensive to repair.
- Visas: If you are not a citizen of Argentina, you will need to obtain a visa to stay in the country for an extended period.
Tips for van life in Argentina:
- Do your research: Learn about the different regions of Argentina and the challenges you may face.
- Plan your route: Be sure to factor in distances, road conditions, and weather when planning your route.
- Pack accordingly: Bring everything you need to be self-sufficient, including food, water, camping gear, and spare parts for your van.
- Learn some Spanish: This will help you communicate with locals and get help if you need it.
- Be respectful: Leave no trace and respect the environment and local customs.
Resources for van life in Argentina:
- Van Travellers: https://argentina-travellers.com/
- Van Life Argentina: https://www.instagram.com/vanlife.arg/?hl=en
- I Overlander: https://www.ioverlander.com/
With careful planning and preparation, van life in Argentina can be a rewarding and unforgettable experience.
Jerry Nelson: A Nomadic Writer on the Road Less Traveled
Jerry Nelson is an award-winning American freelance writer and photojournalist who has traded in the traditional office for a life on the road. Now living the expat life in Argentina, Jerry has traded the 9-to-5 grind for a nomadic lifestyle that allows him to explore the world while sharing his stories with others.
Born and raised in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, Jerry could have easily followed the same path as many of his peers – staying in the area, settling down, and working a traditional job. But Jerry was always drawn to something more. He craved adventure and the opportunity to experience the world beyond his small town.
So, after graduating from college, Jerry took a leap of faith and embarked on a journey that has taken him to all corners of the globe. He has written for publications such as CNN, The Huffington Post, and Entrepreneur, and his work has been featured in numerous online and print media outlets.
JourneyAmerica 