Things To Do
in Santo Tomé

Santo Tomé is a charming city located in the province of Corrientes, Argentina, known for its rich cultural heritage and picturesque landscapes. The city is situated along the banks of the Salado River, providing beautiful waterfront views and recreational opportunities. Santo Tomé is a hub for traditional Argentine music and dance, particularly folklore, making it a vibrant destination for cultural enthusiasts.

With its friendly locals and inviting atmosphere, Santo Tomé offers a unique blend of history and nature, perfect for both relaxation and exploration.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Cultural Exploration
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local artisan market, where you can browse handmade crafts and enjoy a traditional breakfast of medialunas (Argentine croissants) and mate.

afternoon
:

Explore the historic Plaza 25 de Mayo, where you can relax under the shade of trees and visit the local church, Iglesia San Juan Bautista, to appreciate its beautiful architecture.

evening
:

Dine at a local parrilla (steakhouse) and indulge in a traditional asado (Argentine barbecue), followed by a folk music performance at a nearby cultural center.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Recreation
morning
:

Begin with a guided nature walk along the Salado River, where you can observe local wildlife and enjoy the serene environment.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby Parque Nacional Quebrada del Condorito, where you can hike and take in breathtaking views of the condors soaring overhead.

evening
:

End your day with a casual dinner at a riverside restaurant, enjoying fresh fish from the river and local wines while watching the sunset.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$10
🏨Budget hotel per night$30
🚌Local bus fare$1
🍺Beer at a bar$3
Coffee at a café$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences with local music and dance.
  • Beautiful natural surroundings and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly and welcoming locals.
  • Limited English-speaking services.
  • Public transportation can be infrequent.
  • Not as developed as larger Argentinian cities.
  • "¿Dónde está el mercado?" - Where is the market?
  • "Me gustaría una mesa para dos" - I would like a table for two.
  • "¡Salud!" - Cheers!
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta esto?" - How much does this cost?
  • "Gracias" - Thank you.

Places to Visit in Santo Tomé

Visit one of these nice places.

Plaza 25 de Mayo

This central square is surrounded by historic buildings and lush greenery, making it an ideal spot for capturing the essence of Santo Tomé.

Salado Riverfront

The scenic views along the river provide stunning backdrops for sunset photography, with tranquil waters and vibrant colors.

Iglesia San Juan Bautista

This beautiful church features intricate architecture and is a fantastic subject for photography, especially from different angles.

Culinary Guide

Food in Santo Tomé

Santo Tomé offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing the flavors of Corrientes province with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients.

Santo Tomé Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Asado

A traditional Argentine barbecue featuring various cuts of meat cooked over an open flame, often served with chimichurri sauce.

Must-Try!

Empanadas

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

Pichón

A local delicacy made from young pigeon, typically roasted and seasoned to perfection.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal

A vibrant market where you can find fresh produce, local meats, and artisanal products, perfect for sampling local flavors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Santo Tomé experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 35°C (95°F), with high humidity levels. Winters are cooler, averaging around 10°C (50°F) at night, but daytime temperatures can still reach 20°C (68°F). Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, with the summer months receiving the highest precipitation.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time. Friends may greet with a kiss on the right cheek.

Dining Etiquette

It's polite to wait until everyone is served before starting to eat, and making conversation during meals is encouraged.

Personal Space

Argentines tend to stand close when conversing, so don’t be alarmed by the proximity; it’s a cultural norm.

Safety Guide

Safety

Santo Tomé is generally safe for tourists, but like any city, visitors should remain vigilant and take standard safety precautions. Avoid displaying valuables openly, especially in crowded places. It is advisable to use registered taxis or rideshare services for nighttime travel, and to be cautious in less populated areas after dark.

Tipping in Santo Tomé

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a tip of about 10% in restaurants if service is not included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases and local markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (December to February)

Expect warm temperatures, perfect for outdoor activities. However, be prepared for occasional rain showers.

Autumn (March to May)

Milder temperatures make it ideal for exploration, along with beautiful fall foliage.

Winter (June to August)

Cooler weather prevails, making it a good time for indoor cultural activities and enjoying local cuisine.

Spring (September to November)

A wonderful time to visit, with blooming flowers and pleasant temperatures, perfect for outdoor adventures.

Nightlife Guide

Santo Tomé at Night

Santo Tomé has a lively nightlife scene, predominantly centered around local bars and dance clubs that play traditional Argentine music, including chamamé and folklore. The atmosphere is friendly and inviting, encouraging social interactions among locals and visitors alike. Many venues offer live music performances, making it a great way to experience the local culture. The nightlife usually starts late, with locals often dining around 10 PM before heading out to enjoy the music and dancing that lasts into the early hours.

Hiking in Santo Tomé

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sendero del Río Salado

A beautiful hiking trail along the Salado River, offering stunning views and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Cerro de la Cruz

A moderately challenging hike that rewards adventurers with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Airports

How to reach Santo Tomé by plane.

Camba Punta Airport (CNQ)

Located approximately 100 km from Santo Tomé, Camba Punta Airport serves as the nearest major airport, providing domestic flights and limited international connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Santo Tomé is quite walkable, especially in the city center where most attractions, restaurants, and shops are located within a reasonable distance. The flat terrain makes it easy to explore on foot, and the local parks provide pleasant areas for strolling. However, some areas outside the center may require transportation.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Indigenous Communities

Santo Tomé is home to various indigenous groups, contributing to the cultural diversity and traditions of the region.

Immigrant Populations

The city has a significant population of immigrants, particularly from neighboring countries, enriching the local culture and cuisine.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is the most popular sport in Santo Tomé, with many local teams and enthusiastic fans who gather for matches.

Basketball

Basketball is also widely played, with local leagues and community events often taking place in public courts.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Santo Tomé is generally light compared to larger cities. The main roads are well maintained, making it easy to navigate by car or public transport. Public transportation options include local buses and taxis, but schedules may be less frequent, particularly on weekends.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Santo Tomé.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While meat is predominant, many restaurants offer vegetarian options such as grilled vegetables and salads.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options may be limited, but some dishes like grilled meats and salads can be tailored to meet dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Santo Tomé is adequate, with several public and private hospitals available for basic medical needs. While serious medical emergencies may require travel to larger cities, local facilities can handle many routine health issues. It is advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Argentina

Read more in our Argentina 2025 Travel Guide.

Argentina Travel Guide