Argentina is located in the southern hemisphere of the Western Hemisphere, occupying the southeastern portion of the South American continent. As the second-largest country in both South America and Latin America, it spans a significant portion of the southern part of the continent, sharing borders with Chile to the west, Bolivia and Paraguay to the north, Brazil to the northeast, Uruguay and the South Atlantic Ocean to the east, and the Drake Passage to the south.
Geographic Coordinates and Position
The geographic coordinates of Argentina range from approximately 22° South latitude to 55° South latitude, and from 53° West longitude to 73° West longitude. This places the country primarily within the Southern Hemisphere, with the vast majority of its territory situated south of the equator. Its longitudinal span crosses multiple time zones, reflecting its immense size and diverse regional characteristics.
Regional Classification
Based on standard geographic classifications, Argentina is unequivocally part of South America. More specifically, it belongs to the Southern Cone subregion, which also includes Chile, Uruguay, Paraguay, and the southern states of Brazil. This designation highlights its shared cultural, historical, and geographical traits with its neighbors, particularly regarding temperate climates and European immigration heritage.
The Southern Cone Identity
Within the broader context of South America, Argentina is a cornerstone of the Southern Cone. This region is distinguished by its relatively stable political history, advanced economic development compared to other parts of the continent, and a strong agricultural base. The Pampas, a fertile grassland region central to Argentina's identity, is a key agricultural asset that it shares with southern areas of Uruguay and Brazil, reinforcing this regional connection.
Borders and Maritime Claims
Argentina's land borders extend for approximately 9,376 miles, making them the longest of any country in South America. These borders connect it to five different nations, creating a complex web of regional relationships. Furthermore, its exclusive economic zone (EEZ) in the South Atlantic Ocean covers vast maritime territories, extending its influence and resource claims far beyond its coastal shores.
Border Country | Key Features
Chile | Longest land border, separated by the Andes mountain range.
Bolivia
Paraguay
Brazil
Uruguay
Geographical Diversity and Regions
Despite being classified within South America and the Southern Cone, Argentina is a land of remarkable geographical diversity. The country can be divided into several distinct geographical regions, each contributing to its unique national character. From the Andes mountains in the west to the vast Patagonian steppes in the south, the landscape varies dramatically.
Major Geographical Zones
The Andes mountain range forms the western border with Chile, featuring some of the highest peaks in the Western Hemisphere.
The Northern Gran Chaco is a hot, semi-arid lowland region shared with Paraguay and Bolivia.
The Mesopotamia region, comprising the provinces of Misiones, Entre Ríos, and Corrientes, is defined by the Paraná and Uruguay rivers.
The Pampas, encompassing the central provinces like Buenos Aires and Córdoba, is Argentina's agricultural heartland.
