The 12 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Argentina

As we celebrate the Qatar-Argentina 2025 Year of Culture, there has never been a better time to discover the richness of Argentina’s heritage. This cultural partnership seeks to strengthen the bonds between our two nations, shining a spotlight on Argentina’s vibrant traditions, and breathtaking natural beauty.

From majestic glaciers to ancient rock art, these sites offer a glimpse into Argentina’s natural and cultural wonders. Here’s a closer look at each of these remarkable locations:

1. Los Glaciares National Park

Located in the southern region of Patagonia, Los Glaciares National Park is renowned for its stunning glaciers, including the iconic Perito Moreno Glacier. The park’s rugged beauty is complemented by its pristine lakes and towering Andean peaks, making it a haven for adventurers and nature lovers.

Visitors can walk along well-maintained pathways to admire the enchanting ice walls or take a boat tour to get up close to the glacier. The park is open year round, with specific entrance times for the Perito Moreno glacier corridor, which vary depending on the season. Weather can change dramatically even in the summer months and some excursions only run from October to April. 

The town of El Calafate serves as the gateway to the park, offering accommodations, guided tours, and information for adventurers looking to explore the rugged beauty of Patagonia. This national treasure is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts in Argentina. 

2. Cueva de las Manos (Cave of the Hands)

This archaeological treasure in Argentina’s Santa Cruz province features stunning rock art created by hunter-gatherer communities over 9,000 years ago. The stencilled human hands and animal depictions provide a fascinating insight into ancient cultures.

Guided tours are available to help visitors understand the historical context and significance of the Cueva de las Manos cave art. The remote location requires some planning to visit, with the nearest town, Perito Moreno, serving as a base for travellers.

3. Iguazú National Park

Straddling the border between Argentina and Brazil, Iguazú National Park is home to the magnificent Iguazú Falls, one of the world’s largest and most awe-inspiring waterfall systems. 

Visitors can explore the falls through a network of trails and catwalks, including the famous Garganta del Diablowalkway for a close-up view of the thundering falls. The park is open every day of the year and tickets can be reserved in advance online or purchased upon arrival at the visitor's centre.

The nearby town of Puerto Iguazú offers a range of amenities and accommodation options, making it easy to access this natural wonder. Surrounded by lush subtropical rainforest, the park is a biodiversity hotspot home to jaguars, howler monkeys, caymans and more.

4. Jesuit Missions of the Guaranis

Set across Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay, these 17th and 18th-century Jesuit missions were established by Jesuit priests to convert the Guarani people to Christianity. Among the missions open to the public in Argentina are San Ignacio Miní, Santa Ana, Nuestra Señora de Loreto, and Santa María la Mayor.

These sites are primarily located in Misiones province, which offers visitor facilities and places to stay, making it convenient to explore several sites in one trip. Together, they form a testament to Argentina’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage, and bring to life the history and culture of the Guarani people. 

5. Ischigualasto and Talampaya Natural Parks

These adjoining continuous parks in the northwest of Argentina are renowned for their striking red rock formations and paleontological significance. Often referred to as "Valley of the Moon," the area covering over 275,300 hectares contains fossilised remains from the Triassic Period, offering a glimpse into Earth’s ancient history. 

Both Ischigualasto and Talampaya Parks are accessible from the cities of San Juan and La Rioja, where accommodations and tour operators are available. The best time to visit is autumn to early winter (March to June), as summer brings extreme heat (over 40°C) and late spring may cause road closures from the Andean snowmelt. These parks are an essential stop for lovers of natural history in Argentina.

6. Qhapaq Ñan (Andean Road System)

Part of the Incan Empire’s expansive road network, the Qhapaq Ñan stretches over 30,000km through six countries. In Argentina, you can explore portions of the network in the northwest, particularly in Salta and Jujuy provinces. 

The best time to visit Qhapaq Ñan in Argentina is from March to June (autumn - early winter) or September to October (early spring), when temperatures are mild, rainfall is low, and the trekking conditions are ideal. In the winter (July - August) some high-altitude passes may be blocked due to snow.

Guided hikes and tours are available to help visitors experience these ancient pathways and their historical importance. This cultural site offers an immersive experience in Argentina’s rich history, connecting early trade and cultural hubs across the Andes.

7. Península Valdés

This spectacular coastal reserve on the Atlantic Ocean is a vital habitat for marine wildlife in Patagonia, including endangered Southern Right Whale, Orcas and Southern Sea Lions. Península Valdés' unique geographical features include salt flats and wetlands, and it is a hugely important site for global conservation efforts.

Visitors can enjoy whale-watching tours, wildlife safaris, and learn about the unique coastal ecosystem. The nearby towns of Puerto Madryn and Puerto Pirámides offer accommodations and tour services. The best time to visit Península Valdés is from October to March, during spring and summer, when wildlife is most active and the weather is warmer.

8. The Architectural Work of Le Corbusier

"The Architectural Work of Le Corbusier, an Outstanding Contribution to the Modern Movement” is a transnational UNESCO site that encompasses 17 buildings by architect Le Corbusier across 7 countries. 

The world-famous Le Corbusier design in Argentina is the Curutchet House in La Plata, a masterpiece of modern architecture. Visitors can tour the house and learn about its design, which integrates innovative concepts of space and light and is a key example of modernist architecture in Argentina.

9. Humahuaca Valley

The Humahuaca Valley, or Quebrada de Humahuaca in northern Argentina is a cultural and geological marvel. Known for its colourful striped hills and deep historical significance, the valley served as a trade route for over 10,000 years and reflects a rich blend of prehistoric, Indigenous and colonial heritage spanning centuries.

Visitors can explore charming towns like Purmamarca and Tilcara, where local markets, historic sites, and guided tours are readily available. The best time to visit Humahuaca Valley is from April to October, during the dry season, when the area is known for clear skies.

10. Jesuit Block and Estancias of Córdoba

Located in Córdoba, this impressive Argentine UNESCO World Heritage site encompasses a group of protected historical buildings that reflect the Jesuits’ religious, social, and economic influence in the region during the 17th and 18th centuries.

Visitors can explore the University of Córdoba, churches, and nearby estancias (rural estates) that were integral to Jesuit operations in the region for over 150 years. Guided tours provide insight into the historical and architectural importance of this cultural landmark.

11. ESMA Museum and Site of Memory

ESMA Museum in Buenos Aires serves as a poignant reminder of Argentina's history during the military dictatorship (1976–1983). The former detention centre has been transformed into a museum dedicated to human rights and memory. 

Guided tours and exhibits provide a moving and educational experience about this chapter in Argentine history.

12. Los Alerces National Park

Renowned for its ancient forests, Los Alerces National Park is home to some of the oldest trees on Earth, including the millennia-old alerce tree. Travellers can enjoy hiking, kayaking, and boat tours to explore the park’s glacial lakes and dramatic landscapes. 

The town of Esquel serves as the main gateway, offering accommodations and visitor information. The perfect time to visit Los Alerces National Park is from December to March, when the weather is warm, hiking trails are easily accessible, and the park's stunning lakes and forests are at their most vibrant. This natural park is an unmissable destination in Argentina for outdoor enthusiasts.

In Conclusion

Argentina’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites offer an unparalleled journey through the country’s rich tapestry of natural monuments, cultural legacies, ancient and recent history. 

Whether you’re exploring the icy expanses of Los Glaciares or marvelling at the vivid colours of the Humahuaca Valley, each site tells a unique story of this captivating nation.

Find out more about the Qatar-Argentina 2025 Year of Culture and read about upcoming events as part of this year's programme.