Argentina
Buenos Aires is the Paris of South America — a city of grand boulevards, passionate tango, world-class beef, and one of the most vibrant LGBTQ+ scenes in Latin America. As the first country in the region to legalise same-sex marriage (2010), Argentina set a tone of progressive acceptance that is palpable on the streets of Palermo and San Telmo, where queer life is openly and joyfully lived.
Buenos Aires' LGBTQI+ scene is centred in Palermo (particularly Palermo Soho and Hollywood) and parts of San Telmo. Amerika is one of South America's largest gay clubs, a multi-floor institution in Almagro. Flux, Sitges BA, and Pride Café in Palermo are popular. The scene is late — clubs don't fill until 2–3am and run until morning, reflecting Argentine nightlife culture broadly.
Buenos Aires has a thriving queer tango scene — La Marshall is the world-famous queer milonga (tango dance hall) where same-sex couples have danced together since 1998. Attending a milonga, whether queer-specific or mainstream (which are increasingly welcoming), is an essential Buenos Aires experience. The city's broader cultural richness — theatre, literature, football, food — gives it a depth beyond its gay scene.
The Buenos Aires March for Diversity (Marcha del Orgullo) takes place in November — the Southern Hemisphere spring — and is one of South America's largest Pride events, drawing hundreds of thousands down Avenida de Mayo to the Plaza de Mayo. The timing in November means it coincides with warm weather and a lively city atmosphere.
Buenos Aires is best in spring (September–November) and autumn (March–May) — mild temperatures and the city at its most beautiful. November brings Pride. Summer (December–February) is hot and humid but the city is energetic. July is midwinter and can be cool and grey, but the city's indoor culture — restaurants, theatre, museums — thrives.
Ezeiza International Airport (EZE) handles international flights, about 35km from the city. The Aeroparque Jorge Newbery (AEP) handles domestic and regional flights, right on the river close to Palermo. The Subte (metro) covers the main corridors; buses (colectivos) cover everywhere else cheaply. Cabify and Uber operate widely and are the safe choice for night-time travel.
Buenos Aires is generally safe and welcoming for LGBTQI+ travellers, particularly in Palermo, San Telmo, and Recoleta. Argentina has marriage equality and advanced gender identity legislation. Public displays of affection are accepted in these areas. Apply standard big-city safety awareness: use official remis taxis or Cabify/Uber rather than informal street taxis, especially at night.
Argentina is very safe for LGBTQ+ travellers. It was the first country in Latin America to legalise same-sex marriage (2010) and has progressive gender identity laws. Buenos Aires has a vibrant and openly queer culture. Some rural areas may be more conservative, but major cities are welcoming.
