Corrientes is a provincial capital of 400,000 on the west bank of the upper Paraná River, directly opposite the city of Resistencia (linked by a bridge). One of Argentina’s oldest cities, founded in 1588, it has a well-preserved colonial core around Plaza 25 de Mayo and a long waterfront Costanera promenade. The city is subtropical — hot and humid from October through April — and has a distinctive culture shaped by Guaraní heritage, strong Carnaval traditions, and proximity to the northeast Argentine ecosystems. For travellers, Corrientes functions primarily as the gateway to the Iberá Wetlands, one of the world’s great wildlife destinations, as well as the wider Corrientes province with its marshes, lagoons, and grassland birds.
Where to Stay
Corrientes’ accommodation is centred in the city’s urban core:
Along the Costanera — The riverside boulevard Av. Costanera runs along the Paraná for several kilometres, with parks and a beach area (though river currents make swimming inadvisable except in designated spots). Waterfront properties here capture the Paraná views and a constant breeze — useful in the subtropical heat.
Centre (around Plaza 25 de Mayo) — The colonial historic core with the cathedral, government buildings, and main restaurant streets. Well-connected and within walking distance of most urban sights.
Getting to Corrientes
Flight — From Buenos Aires Aeroparque approximately 1.5 hours. Airport (CNQ) 10 km from centre; taxis approximately ARS 5,000–8,000.
Bus — From Buenos Aires approximately 11–12 hours; services from Retiro. Fare approximately ARS 30,000–50,000.
From the Iberá Wetlands: Carlos Pellegrini (250 km southwest) is connected by road but the final 70 km are unpaved. Most visitors use organised tours from Corrientes or fly into Mercedes (the nearest town with airport access).
Budget Hotels and Guesthouses (ARS 30,000–90,000/night)
Hotel Guaraní — Mendoza 970. A reliable budget option in the city centre with basic private rooms and good location near the historic core. From approximately ARS 50,000 as of 2026.
Hostel del Río — Costanera s/n. A budget guesthouse near the riverfront with dormitory and private options. Good for travellers using Corrientes as a base for Iberá day or multi-day excursions. From approximately ARS 20,000 per dorm bed.
Mid-Range Hotels (ARS 100,000–200,000/night)
Hotel Corrientes — Entre Ríos 650. A mid-range hotel in the centre with comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a small pool. Well-positioned for the main sights. Rates approximately ARS 110,000–160,000 as of 2026.
Apart Hotel Nereidas — Av. Costanera General San Martín. An apartment-style property on the Costanera with river views and self-catering facilities. Rates approximately ARS 130,000–190,000.
Hotel Orly — Juan Torres de Vera y Aragón 1587. A comfortable mid-range property near the centre with consistent service. Rates approximately ARS 110,000–170,000.
Upscale Hotels (ARS 220,000–380,000+/night)
Gran Hotel Turismo — Entre Ríos 650. The city’s most established upscale hotel, with a pool, restaurant, and well-appointed rooms in the city centre. Rates from approximately ARS 250,000 as of 2026.
Hotel La Alondra — Av. Costanera General Belgrano s/n. A riverfront hotel with Paraná views, outdoor pool, and a restaurant focused on regional specialties including surubí (river catfish) and chivito (kid goat). Rates approximately ARS 280,000–380,000.
Seasonal Notes
- Carnaval (February): Corrientes hosts one of Argentina’s most celebrated Carnavales. The city fills completely — accommodation books out months in advance. Rates are at their annual peak.
- October–April: Hot and humid (30–40°C). River breezes help on the Costanera. Mosquito protection is essential.
- May–September: More comfortable temperatures (18–28°C). Dry season. Best time for the Iberá Wetlands — wildlife concentrates around water sources.
Practical Tips
- Iberá Wetlands tours can be arranged from Corrientes through tour operators on or near Av. 3 de Abril. Full-day excursions approximately ARS 60,000–90,000 per person as of 2026.
- The city’s most iconic view is at sunset from the Costanera looking across to the Chaco province on the opposite bank.
- Surubí (a large Paraná river catfish) is the local specialty — order it at any of the waterfront restaurants on the Costanera.
Book your Corrientes trip: Tours in Corrientes · Travel insurance · Flights to Argentina
See also: Corrientes city guide