Corrientes (city) Travel Guide

Discover the culturally rich, scenic beauty of Corrientes (City) with our comprehensive travel guide. From outdoor adventures to local cuisine, we have got you covered.


Introduction to Corrientes (City)

Located in the Mesopotamian region of Argentina, Corrientes (City) is a culturally vibrant and naturally scenic travel destination. The city is known for its rich history, colonial architecture, and lush greenery. Corrientes (City) is also a hub for outdoor activities, including hiking and biking trails, wildlife watching, and boating. This comprehensive travel guide will take you through everything you need to know about the best places to visit, things to do, local cuisine, and culture of Corrientes (City).

List of Places to Visit in Corrientes (City)

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • San Francisco Convent and Church: This 18th-century church is an architectural masterpiece and is known as the oldest building in Corrientes (City).
  • Juan Bautista Cabral Historical Museum: Explore the city’s rich history through a collection of artefacts, paintings, sculptures, manuscripts, and photographs.
  • Casa Martínez: This colonial-style house is a popular attraction that showcases the city’s architecture from the 18th and 19th centuries.

Natural Attractions of Corrientes (City): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Ibera Wetlands: This vast wetland, covering more than 13,000 square kilometres, is home to more than 350 species of birds and other wildlife. Visitors can enjoy kayaking, birdwatching, and boat safaris to explore the beautiful landscape.
  • Carlos Pellegrini: This small town, located at the entrance of Ibera Wetlands, is an ideal starting point to explore the park’s wilderness. You can enjoy some local cultural activities as well.
  • Laguna Totora: This lagoon, located in the heart of the city, is a serene spot to take a stroll and explore scenic views of the city’s skyline.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Corrientes (City)

  • Costanera Sur: This scenic road links the city’s main attractions, including beaches, downtown, and well-maintained trails for jogging, biking, and hiking.
  • Sendero de La Cruz: This trail, located in the San Cayetano neighbourhood, leads you to a hilltop chapel with breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
  • Parque Mitre: This park, located in the heart of the city, offers a variety of trails for hiking, biking, and jogging.

Best Things to Do in Corrientes (City): Activities and Tours

  • Wildlife watching: From the wetlands to the Parana River, Corrientes (City) is the perfect place to spot exotic and colourful birds, including herons, rheas, toucans and many others.
  • Horseback riding: Explore the natural beauty of Corrientes (City) on horseback, either through the marshes or through traditional villages.

Week-Long Itinerary for Corrientes (City)

Day Activities
Day 1 Explore the downtown and the San Francisco Convent and Church.
Day 2 Visit Juan Bautista Cabral Historical Museum and Casa Martínez.
Day 3 Enjoy a day at Ibera Wetlands.
Day 4 Take a horseback riding tour through traditional villages.
Day 5 Explore the Parque Mitre.
Day 6 Visit the Laguna Totora and enjoy the scenery.
Day 7 Take a boat safari to the Parana River and enjoy the view of the sunset.

Food and Drink Scene of Corrientes (City)

Must-Try Dishes

  • Chipá: A traditional cheese-filled bread made with Mandioca flour, milk, and eggs.
  • Asado: A barbecue-style dish popular in Argentina, consisting of grilled meats, including steak, chorizo, and chicken.
  • Reviro: A hearty and comforting dish made of corn flour, chorizo, and onion.

Local Beverages

  • Mate: The beloved drink of Argentina that is typically served in a gourd and drunk through a metal straw.
  • Terere: A refreshing cold version of mate, perfect for hot summer days in Corrientes (City).

Where to Stay in Corrientes (City): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Gran Hotel Guarani: This historic hotel has comfortable rooms and a prime location near the San Francisco Convent and Church.
  • Hostelito: This budget-friendly hostel in the heart of the city’s downtown area offers shared rooms and a common area for guests to relax.
  • Hostel La Rosada: A comfortable accommodation with a garden and barbecue facilities, located in the San Cayetano neighbourhood of the city.

What to Buy in Corrientes (City): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Artisanal textiles: Corrientes (City) is famous for its traditional ponchos and blankets made of wool and cotton.
  • Terracotta pottery: Handmade pottery is a well-known art form in Corrientes (City), and you can find beautiful pieces of local ceramics in the markets.
  • Yerba mate: You can buy a gourd, a metal straw, and a bag of yerba mate to enjoy the traditional Argentine beverage at home.

Local Culture and Customs of Corrientes (City)

Corrientes (City) is a city deeply connected to local culture, music, and traditions. Empanadas and Chipá are common Argentine dishes that are enjoyed in Corrientes. Locals also celebrate the Carnival of Corrientes, which is considered to be one of the most colourful and vibrant carnivals in South America. Polka music is another important part of the local culture, and you will find many opportunities to listen to live performances in the city.

Best Time to Visit Corrientes (City)

The best time to visit Corrientes (City) is during the fall and winter months (March to September), when the weather is mild and usually sunny. This is also a popular time for wildlife watching at Ibera Wetlands.

Do’s and Don’ts of Corrientes (City)

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine.
  • Enjoy a horseback riding tour.
  • Listen to live polka music.

Don’t:

  • Leave the city without visiting Ibera Wetlands.
  • Wear revealing or provocative clothes, as locals are modestly dressed.

Safety and Health

Safety in Corrientes (City)

Corrientes (City) is a safe place to travel, but it is always wise to take general precautions. Avoid travelling alone at night and keep an eye on your belongings. Always be careful when exchanging currency and try to avoid suspicious-looking ATMs.

Health in Corrientes (City)

It is recommended to have updated vaccinations for Yellow fever and DTP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis). Be sure to drink bottled water, avoid street food, and use mosquito repellent to avoid mosquito bites.

Getting to Corrientes (City): Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Corrientes (City)

  • Corrientes International Airport: Served by Aerolineas Argentinas, this airport has daily flights from Buenos Aires.

Bus Stations Near Corrientes (City)

  • Terminal de Omnibus de Corrientes: The city’s central bus station has daily buses from Buenos Aires, Rosario, and other major Argentine cities.

Other Options

  • By car: You can rent a car from Buenos Aires or other major cities. However, be aware that the roads may not always be in the best condition.

How to Get Around in Corrientes (City)

The most efficient way to get around Corrientes (City) is by taxi or by renting a car. However, you can also explore the city on foot or by bike using the scenic trails.

Where to Go Next From Corrientes (City): Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Resistencia: The capital city of Chaco province is only an hour’s drive from Corrientes (City) and is known for its art and culture.
  • Jesuit Missions of the Guaranis: Located in the Misiones province, the Jesuit Missions are a UNESCO World Heritage site and feature stunning colonial architecture.
  • Esteros del Ibera: This nature reserve, located near the city of Mercedes, is a great place to spot local wildlife and enjoy water sports.

Conclusion

Corrientes (City) has everything you would want in a travel destination. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, delicious cuisine to scenic beauty, this city has it all. We hope this comprehensive travel guide has given you an idea of all the fantastic things you can do in Corrientes (City) and will inspire you to pack your bags and visit soon.