Argentina is working on making its tourism industry more accessible for the disabled but it’s a slow process, which is not surprising given that providing access for the disabled only became law a few years ago. Improvements are being made, however, particularly in Buenos Aires where wheelchair ramps have been built into some pavements. Ironically, some of these same pavements are pothole-ridden with lots of loose slabs. It’s a good idea to avoid rush-hour pedestrian traffic.

Accommodation
As far as accommodation goes, most top five-star hotels have good wheelchair access and roll-in showers. Most mid-range hotels offer roomy accommodation for those who are partially disabled or don’t need full wheelchair access. It is essential to do your research and make enquiries before traveling so as not to be disappointed. Red Argentina de Albergues Juveniles and the Asociación Argentina de Albergues de la Juventud will tell you about accessibility at their hostals.

Tourist Attractions
Some major tourist attractions such as the Iguazú Falls have improved greatly. It has new ramps and catwalks rendering most of the falls area accessible by wheelchair. It has ramps into tourist buildings, accessible footbridges, and the train which stops at various viewpoints is also wheelchair accessible. In Bariloche and San Martin de los Andes, ski equipment for the disabled can be rented and ski lessons are available. Some national parks such as Los Arrayanes on Tierra del Fuego, Los Glaciares on Tierra del Fuego and Peninsula Valdes have some wheelchair access but it’s limited.

Getting Around
All international airports have accessible toilets but not all smaller airports, where facilities are still restricted. And getting on and off an aircraft might be somewhat of an experience with two untrained attendants doing their best. New buses in Buenos Aires have low-floor access and some newer trains are fully accessible. Taxi drivers are often help with transfers but don’t expect them to be too skilful. It is possible to find wheelchair accessible taxis in larger cities. In Buenos Aires, try Transpdisc. Tel: +54 (0) 9 11 4993 9883 or +54 (0) 9 11 5759 7310. Within BA: (15) 4446 9883 or +54 (0) 9 11 5759 7310, email or visit the website. Keep an eye on your belongings. If you take prescription medicines don’t forget to bring an adequate supply with you for your trip.

Tour Operators
Accessible Journeys arranges travel programs for wheelchair travellers. Tel: toll-free +1 (0) 800 846 4537 or 610 521 0339.
DecThird provides customized packages for disabled visitors. Within Buenos Aires, Tel: (15) 4182 5469 or email.
Directions Unlimted. Tel: +1 (0) 914 241 1700. Specialises in tours for those with disabilities.
Korke, based in Chile, organises tailor-made travel and cruises to Chile and Argentina. Amapi, the accessible branch of Korke, arranges tailor-made tours for wheelchair travellers or the slow walker. For information, contact Amapi, email or tel: +56 (0) 32 2815 886.
Barrier Free Travel in Australia organizes personal itineraries. Tel: +61 (0) 2 6655 1733.

Organisations and Advice
Acess-able Travel Source has some good links for further information.
SATH (Society for Accessible Travel & Hospitality) offers travel resources (destinations, travel agents, tour operators, vehicle rentals, access guides, and more) for people with disabilities.Tel: +1 (0) 212 447-7284.
Miusa (Mobility International USA) - arranges international exchange visits. Tel: +1 (0) 541 343 1284.
MossRehab Hospital – Accessible Travel offers advice as you make your travel plans but it’s not a travel agency. Tel: +1 (0) 215 456-9603.
Twin Peaks Press. Tel: +1 (0) 360 694 2462. Twin Peaks publishes the Directory of Travel Agencies for the Disabled and Wheelchair Vagabond.
Disabled Persons Assembly in New Zealand. Tel: +64 (0) 4 472 2626. It has details of tour operators and travel agencies who help those with disabilities organise their holidays.

Useful Websites
Other websites with useful information for disabled travellers include:
Flying with Disability which offers detailed information for those wheelchair flyers or those affected by other disabilities.
Disabled Travelers has lots of useful information and links.
The Transport Security Administration has a list of items that disabled travellers can take through the security checkpoints. Check its website.
Global Access News Travel offers opinions from disabled travelers.
RADAR (Royal Association for Disability and Rehabilitation) offers lots of advice for travellers.