Compare Argentine Peso Exchange Rates in Argentina

Getting Argentine Pesos for Your Trip

Argentina offers incredible experiences - from the vibrant streets of Buenos Aires to the stunning glaciers of Patagonia. However, managing money in Argentina is more complex than most destinations due to the country's ongoing economic situation and currency regulations.

The Argentine Peso has experienced significant devaluation and inflation over recent years. This means money strategies can change quickly, and what works today may not apply in six months. Always check current conditions before your trip.

Important: This guide provides general guidance, but Argentina's currency situation is fluid. Research current exchange options and regulations before travelling.

Understanding Argentina's Currency Situation

For years Argentina had several exchange rates running side by side. Most currency controls for individuals were lifted in April 2025, and the gap has almost closed:

Official Rate: The rate used by banks, ATMs and card payments. Since April 2025 it has floated within a band instead of being fixed.

Street (blue) Rate: The informal dollar sold on the street once paid far more than the bank rate. The gap was about 3% in June 2025 and only about 1% on 7 October 2026, by Infobae and Ámbito figures, so selling dollars on the street no longer pays. The city tourist board calls street changing illegal.

Check current news and traveller forums before your trip to understand the latest situation. Exchange regulations in Argentina can change with little notice.

Best Ways to Get ARS

Options for obtaining Argentine Pesos, noting that effectiveness varies by current conditions:

1. Registered Casas de Cambio and Banks

Bringing US dollars to sell on the street used to be the standard advice, but with the street rate now barely above the bank rate it gains you little. If you carry foreign cash, take it to a licensed exchange house (casa de cambio) or a bank with your passport. Check the amount before leaving the counter and hold on to the receipt, which may be asked for if you sell pesos back later; exchange houses buy back no more than about US$100 worth.

2. ATM Withdrawals

ATMs are open day and night and take the main international card brands, at the official rate. Fees and limits vary: the machine's operator and your own bank may both charge, so check the amount shown on screen before you confirm. Banco Nación and Banco Galicia are commonly used.

3. Credit/Debit Cards

Cards work at hotels, upmarket restaurants, and shops in Buenos Aires. You'll receive the official rate plus any foreign transaction fees from your bank. When a terminal gives you a choice of pounds or pesos, pick pesos.

Using Cards in Argentina

Card acceptance varies significantly by location:

Where Cards Work

International hotels, upmarket restaurants in Buenos Aires and major cities, shopping centres and department stores, airlines for domestic flights, car rentals, and some tour operators.

Where You Need Cash

Local restaurants and cafes, taxis (though Uber uses cards), markets and street vendors, most shops outside major cities, Patagonia (limited card acceptance), tips everywhere. In Buenos Aires, city buses and Subte gates now take contactless Visa and Mastercard cards, but carry a SUBE card too, as official notices say nothing about cards issued abroad.

Card Surcharges

Some businesses may add a surcharge for paying by card. Always ask "¿Hay recargo?" (Is there a surcharge?) before paying by card.

ATMs in Argentina

Argentine ATMs have significant limitations:

Withdrawal Limits

Limits per withdrawal vary by bank and card, so a larger sum may take more than one withdrawal, and more than one fee.

Fees

The machine's operator may add a fee on top of your own bank's overseas charges. Read the amount on screen before you confirm, and ask your bank what it adds.

Best ATMs

Banco Galicia and Santander are widely available. Use ATMs inside banks during business hours: the FCDO reports express kidnappings in which victims are made to empty their accounts at cash machines. In Patagonia, ATMs are scarce and often run out of cash on weekends.

Money Tips for Patagonia

If visiting El Calafate, El Chaltén, Ushuaia, or Bariloche:

Bring plenty of cash - ATMs are limited and often empty, especially on weekends and holidays. Many restaurants and tour operators prefer cash. Card machines can be unreliable. El Chaltén has very limited banking facilities. Plan to arrive with enough cash for your entire stay, plus reserve.