Things To Do
in Chivilcoy

Chivilcoy is a charming city located in the province of Buenos Aires, Argentina. Known for its historical architecture and rich agricultural surroundings, it offers a blend of urban culture and rural charm. With a population of around 30,000, it boasts friendly locals and vibrant community life.

The city is often referred to as the 'Capital of the Argentine Horse' due to its equestrian heritage and events.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Chivilcoy
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Plaza 25 de Mayo, the central square of Chivilcoy, where you can enjoy a coffee at a local café while admiring the historic buildings.

afternoon
:

After lunch, explore the Museo de Ciencias Naturales, which showcases the region's natural history, including local flora and fauna.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional parrilla (steakhouse) and enjoy a classic Argentine asado, followed by a leisurely stroll through the illuminated streets.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin with a visit to the Parque Lacunario, a beautiful park featuring a lake where you can rent a paddleboat or simply enjoy the scenery.

afternoon
:

Head to the local artisan market to shop for handmade crafts and souvenirs, and grab some empanadas from a food stall.

evening
:

Catch a live tango performance at a local venue, immersing yourself in the Argentine culture.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a Restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🚕Taxi Ride (5 km)$3
🍺Beer (local)$4
🏨Mid-range Hotel (per night)$50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals.
  • Beautiful parks and outdoor activities.
  • Delicious local cuisine and affordable dining options.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation may not be as frequent.
  • English is not widely spoken; a basic understanding of Spanish is helpful.
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Dónde está...?" - Where is...?
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Chivilcoy

Visit one of these nice places.

Plaza 25 de Mayo

The central square is adorned with historic buildings and lively greenery, perfect for capturing the essence of Chivilcoy.

Parque Lacunario

A picturesque park featuring a serene lake, ideal for sunset photography.

Museo de Ciencias Naturales

The museum's architecture and exhibits provide a unique backdrop for photos, especially for nature enthusiasts.

Culinary Guide

Food in Chivilcoy

Chivilcoy is a food lover's paradise, offering a rich array of local dishes that highlight the flavors of Argentine cuisine.

Chivilcoy Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Asado

A traditional Argentine barbecue featuring various cuts of beef, often enjoyed with chimichurri sauce.

Must-Try!

Empanadas

Savory pastries filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables, perfect for a quick snack.

Dulce de Leche

A sweet caramel-like spread made from milk and sugar, commonly used in desserts.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local meats, and artisan products.

Street Food Stalls

Various food stalls around town offering delicious street food like choripán (chorizo sandwich) and alfajores.

Climate Guide

Weather

Chivilcoy experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers can be hot and humid, often exceeding 30°C (86°F), while winters are mild, averaging around 10°C (50°F). Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities. Rain is spread throughout the year, with the wettest months typically being in summer.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly greeting with a handshake or a kiss on the cheek is customary when meeting locals.

Dining Etiquette

It's polite to wait for the host to start eating before you begin your meal.

Personal Space

Personal space is a bit closer than in some cultures; don't be surprised if locals stand close during conversations.

Safety Guide

Safety

Chivilcoy is generally considered a safe city for travelers, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. Familiarize yourself with the local emergency numbers and have a plan in case of any unexpected situations.

Tipping in Chivilcoy

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants if the service is satisfactory.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring (September - November)

Spring brings mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a lovely time for outdoor activities.

Summer (December - February)

Summer can be hot, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F), perfect for enjoying the parks and lakes.

Autumn (March - May)

Autumn features cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage, ideal for scenic walks.

Winter (June - August)

Winters are mild, with temperatures averaging around 10°C (50°F). It's a great time for cozy indoor activities and cultural events.

Nightlife Guide

Chivilcoy at Night

Chivilcoy's nightlife is vibrant yet laid-back, with a variety of bars, clubs, and cultural venues. Locals often gather at bars to socialize, enjoy live music, or partake in traditional tango dancing. The city has a few popular nightclubs that feature local DJs and themed nights, making it a fun experience for night owls.

Hiking in Chivilcoy

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sendero de los Pioneros

A scenic hiking trail located just outside Chivilcoy, featuring diverse landscapes and opportunities for bird watching.

Cerro de la Cruz

A moderately challenging hike that offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, ideal for nature lovers.

Airports

How to reach Chivilcoy by plane.

Aeropuerto de Chivilcoy

A small airport located just a few kilometers from the city center, primarily serving domestic flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Chivilcoy is a walkable city, especially in the downtown area where most attractions, shops, and restaurants are located within a short walking distance. The streets are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian-friendly sidewalks make it easy to explore on foot. However, some areas outside the center may require transportation for access.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of the population is made up of Argentine nationals, with a strong sense of community and cultural pride.

Agricultural Workers

Many residents are engaged in agriculture, contributing to the local economy and cultural practices.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is the most popular sport in Chivilcoy, with local teams and a passionate fan base supporting various leagues.

Horse Racing

Given its equestrian heritage, horse racing events are popular, attracting both locals and tourists.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Chivilcoy is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation options include buses that connect different areas of the city, although schedules may vary. During peak hours, traffic may increase slightly, but it is manageable compared to larger urban centers.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Chivilcoy.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While the cuisine is meat-heavy, many restaurants offer vegetarian options such as grilled vegetables and salads.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are becoming more available, especially in larger restaurants.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Chivilcoy has several healthcare facilities, including public hospitals and private clinics. Emergency services are available, and it's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses. Local pharmacies are well-stocked with common medications, but for serious health issues, larger cities like Buenos Aires may be better equipped.

Discover Argentina

Read more in our Argentina 2025 Travel Guide.

Argentina Travel Guide