River Plate (Rio de la Plata)

The Basics

Buenos Aires sits on the shores of the Rio de la Plata, with the Uruguayan city of Montevideo across the world’s third largest river delta. Most travelers enjoy the sights and sounds of the river on a day trip to the Buenos Aires suburb of Tigre, known for its peaceful canals and the departure point for cruises on the river. A quick ferry across the Rio de la Plata brings visitors to the beach town of Colonia del Sacramento in Uruguay, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with colonial-era architecture and cobbled streets shaded by sycamore trees.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Don’t forget your camera; the views of Buenos Aires from the river are among the best around.
• Bring insect repellent, especially during the hot and humid summers when mosquitoes proliferate.
• Most ferries and sightseeing boats along the river are accessible to wheelchairs.

How to Get There

Rio de la Plata runs alongside the neighorbhoods of Palermo, Recoleta, Retiro, Puerto Madero and La Boca in Buenos Aires. Most sightseeing cruises along the river depart from the suburb of Tigre. Ferries to Colonia del Sacramento depart from the ferry terminal in Buenos Aires.

When to Get There

The best time to cruise the river or visit one of its waterfront towns is during the winter (May to September) on a weekday. On weekends, especially in summer, the sites along the river are often crowded with Argentine visitors.

Martín García Island (Isla Martín García)

Martín García Island (Isla Martín García) sits in the middle of the Rio de la Plata has long been fought over by Argentina and Uruguay. Today, the island is protected as a nature reserve. Travelers can visit the island on boat trips from Tigre.