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

Argentina has historically had multiple exchange rates operating simultaneously:

Official Rate: The government-controlled rate used by banks, ATMs, and credit card transactions.

Alternative Rates: Various informal or parallel market rates have sometimes offered significantly better value for foreign currency. The availability and legality of these options changes based on government policy.

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. Bring USD Cash

Historically, bringing US Dollars has been the best strategy for Argentina. $100 bills dated 2013 or newer get the best rates. Keep notes crisp and unmarked. Smaller denominations ($20, $50) are useful but may receive slightly worse rates.

2. ATM Withdrawals

ATMs give the official rate and often have low withdrawal limits (equivalent to $100-200) with fees of $5-10 per transaction. Useful as backup but not cost-effective as primary strategy due to fees and limits. 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. Some businesses add a surcharge for card payments (typically 10-15%).

4. Western Union Transfers

Some travellers use Western Union to send themselves money, picking it up in pesos at potentially favourable rates. Check current options and fees before relying on this method.

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), public transport (SUBE card in Buenos Aires), markets and street vendors, most shops outside major cities, Patagonia (limited card acceptance), tips everywhere.

Card Surcharges

Many Argentine businesses add 10-15% surcharges for card payments due to high processing fees and delays receiving funds. Always ask "¿Hay recargo?" (Is there a surcharge?) before paying by card.

ATMs in Argentina

Argentine ATMs have significant limitations:

Withdrawal Limits

Most ATMs limit withdrawals to ARS 10,000-30,000 per transaction — often equivalent to just $50-150 USD. You may need multiple transactions (and fees) to get meaningful amounts of cash.

Fees

Local ATM fees of $5-10 per transaction plus your bank's foreign fees make ATMs expensive. A $100 withdrawal might cost $15-20 in fees.

Best ATMs

Banco Nación has higher limits. Banco Galicia and Santander are widely available. Use ATMs inside banks during business hours for security. 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.