Best Places to Run in Buenos Aires
Traveling can disrupt your fitness routine, especially if you're a runner. It's often challenging to find good spots for outdoor exercise, and Buenos Aires is no exception. The city prioritizes concrete over vast open green spaces. But don't despair! Buenos Aires does have several excellent areas and parks where you can maintain your fitness and well-being. Here are some of the best places to run in Buenos Aires.
- La Reserva Ecológica
La Reserva Ecológica (The Ecological Reserve) is the largest green space near the Micro Centro (Downtown) area of Buenos Aires. Shaped almost circularly, it borders the Rio de la Plata. A circular path runs around the edges of the reserve, with other paths cutting through the middle and reconnecting to the main path. These routes provide ample space to run unobstructed in beautiful surroundings, rich with local flora and fauna. The reserve is free to enter and is open Tuesday to Sunday from early morning to early evening. Maps of the reserve are available at various entrance points.
- Puerto Madero
Puerto Madero, a regenerated port area between La Reserva Ecológica and the central neighborhoods of Micro Centro and San Telmo, is probably Buenos Aires' trendiest spot with top-end restaurants. It also offers a great space for workouts. The port has four interconnected docks surrounded by large pathways, perfect for running next to the waterside. Nearby parks like Parque Mujeres Argentinas and Parque Micaela Bastidas provide additional running space and steep grassy inclines.
- Bosques de Palermo
If you’re in the Palermo neighborhood, Bosques de Palermo is your go-to spot for a workout. This large green area features a central lake and a rose garden, with a 1km circular route around the lake reserved for recreation. Locals frequently use this path for running, rollerblading, and cycling. Additionally, smaller parks nearby offer more shaded running conditions.
- Avenida del Libertador
Avenida del Libertador offers long stretches of pedestrian and green space, ideal for running. This route runs from near Recoleta past the Floralis Generica up to Bosques de Palermo. It's perfect for those looking for a longer, uninterrupted run in a scenic urban setting.
- Plaza San Martin
Plaza San Martin is the most centrally located green space in the downtown area, near the Retiro Train and Bus Stations and Florida Street, a shopping haven. The park is rectangular, with a lap around its perimeter measuring just over half a kilometer. The park's steep incline adds more resistance to your run, making it a great workout spot.
- Parque Centenario
Located in the Caballito neighborhood, Parque Centenario is one of the most central parks in Buenos Aires. The park is circular, with outer pedestrian paths bordering the inner park, which boasts a lake and green areas. A lap on the outer path is approximately 1.5 km. Along the route are two permanent open-air gym structures with equipment like parallel bars, pull-up bars, and benches for sit-ups, free for public use. The central path within the park is ideal for running during weekdays when fewer people are around. However, be aware that on weekends and public holidays, market stalls and performers set up around the park, obstructing the routes. The park is easily accessible by various bus routes, with Angel Gallardo Station on Line B and Rio de Janeiro Station on Line A subway lines just minutes away.
- Parque Chacabuco
Further afield in the Caballito neighborhood is Parque Chacabuco, which offers parkland and a 40-meter running track for public use. This area is perfect for those looking to incorporate some structured track workouts into their routine.
- Plaza Irlanda
In the same neighborhood, Plaza Irlanda features a running track around its 600-700 meter perimeter, providing a scenic and convenient location for a run.
- Lagos de Regatas
For those seeking a picturesque and serene running environment, Lagos de Regatas in the Palermo area is an excellent choice. The park features two large lakes surrounded by expansive green spaces. Running paths around these lakes offer beautiful views and a peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal location for both casual joggers and serious runners. The park's scenic trails are a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
- Northern Suburbs - Vicente López to San Isidro
The northern suburbs of Buenos Aires, particularly from Vicente López up to San Isidro, offer a series of green areas right next to the Rio de la Plata. This stretch features several parks and promenades along the river, providing a continuous and scenic route for runners. The areas along the river offer unobstructed views of the water and well-maintained paths, making them perfect for longer runs and enjoying the natural beauty of the waterfront.
Combining your visit to Buenos Aires with the annual Buenos Aires Marathon, which takes place every October, might also be a great option if you're a keen runner.
Running in Buenos Aires, including its parks and green spaces, not only keeps you fit but also allows you to explore and discover different areas of this vibrant city.
