Why Argentina is becoming a major destination for avid sports lovers

At five times the size of France, Argentina is 3,700 kilometres long and 1,400 kilometres wide, and divided into five major geographical zones – each with its own climate and unique terrain. The exceptional diversity of landscape on offer has turned it into a majestic playground for adventurous sports enthusiasts.

Here is a list of recommended activities in some of the country's most breathtaking spots.

The exquisite Iguazu Falls are a must-see for thrill seekers. Situated on the Brazilian border in the far northeast of the country, they are classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and were used as a location in the film The Mission. The majestic beauty of the 275 individual waterfalls, the highest of which is 82 metres tall, makes it an ideal setting for extreme sports such as abseiling down the middle of the waterfalls or rafting down the Iguazu River to the iconic site of the 'Devil's Throat' canyon, which will be sure to steal your breath and capture your heart.

For those who are not afraid of the cold, why not head to the southern tip of the country to visit the mythical village of Ushuaia? There you will find a skiers' paradise, which is open all year round thanks to the sub-polar climate. Ushuaia is home to the most southern ski resort in the world; Cerro Castor is only 195 metres above sea level but the surrounding mountains quickly reach heights of over 1000 metres and offer 30 kilometres of steep slopes to descend. The French alpine ski teams regularly go there as part of their summer training. For those who like speed, why not learn to ride a snowmobile during the country's winter season? For all those adrenaline-seekers, do not miss out on the slopes of Tierra del Fuego where you will be guaranteed to find some of the best powder in the world!

If you are looking for adventure, look no further than southern Patagonia. Grab your hiking boots and prepare yourself for an unforgettable 250-square kilometre trek across the Martial glacier or the Perito Moreno glacier through crevasses, waterfalls and rivers. Avid climbers will be blown away by the frozen walls of blue ice. These spectacular sites are also visible from the lakes along which they stretch and kayakers can expect an exceptional view of these 60-metre high glaciers. Be careful, however, not to get too close to the enormous chunks of ice that often come crashing down.

The north-west of the country is every risk-taker's nirvana. A hidden gem due to its remoteness, its unspoiled landscapes are a rare find for the few tourists who discover it. White water rafting fanatics should not miss the Mendoza River and its 273 kilometre-long rapids which unleash some spectacular views.

Climbers will not want to miss the pink granite climbing paradise of Los Arenales. Located at 3,150 metres above sea level, these vertical cliffs, the highest of which measures 250 metres, offer more than 1,000 climbing routes varying in length and difficulty.

Climbers should also head a little further west, towards the Chilean border, to the Andes' highest peak, Mount Aconcagua, at 6,962 metres. Treks up this 'stone wall' generally take place between December and February and are naturally very physically challenging but relatively accessible to less experienced climbers.

Boasting the highest peak on the American continent, Mount Aconcagua can be enjoyed by both hikers and mountaineers thanks to its various picturesque trekking expeditions. Safety is paramount in this semi-desert region – home to a herd of llamas – where winds often reach 250 kilometres per hour. Mountain bikers will also find the perfect playground on its dusty slopes.

Others prefer to take to the air to greet the Andean condors while hang-gliding or paragliding and to admire the vast landscape of the region. Daredevils have been known to take to their skis to embark upon the 2700-metre descent of Mount Aconcagua's South Face in under five minutes.

The northern town of Abra Pampa on the Bolivian border is the perfect place for snowboarders to discover sandboarding or surf the sands on the slopes of Cerro Huancar.

It goes without saying that no matter where you choose to visit or what activities you choose to indulge in, Argentina's unspoiled landscapes will offer a truly unique and unforgettable experience.