Where to Run in Buenos Aires?
A runner’s first impression of Buenos Aires is usually as a huge city with busy overcrowded streets and potholed footpaths covered in the remnants of dogs visits. By no means a running friendly place, but don’t hang up your trainers just yet. Read our tips on running in Buenos Aires to discover places to run and people to run with.
Running in the Buenos Aires Ecological Reserve:
The huge parkland of Reserva Ecológica Costanera Sur is one of the city’s best places to run. Trails criss-cross the parkland and a flat 8km loop is popular choice for runners, walkers and cyclists. The best sight during the loop is the open views across the River Plate towards Uruguay. Tonnes of birdlife give new sounds away from the honking cars and blasting buses that are common in other parts of the city.
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The reserve is generally opened 8am – 5pm but is closed every Monday and also after heavy rain storms. Watch out for the mosquito after summer rainstorms, they will make you run faster!
Running in Puerto Madero:
If you find yourself at Ecological Reserve and the doors are locked, don’t despair as you are very close to the neighbourhood of Puerto Madero, another fantastic area for a run. The thing that sets Puerto Madero apart from other neighbourhoods is its lack of traffic a relative calmness. The clean streets, grasslands and dog poo free footpaths make it easy to find your running stride. The docklands, although with a few cobblestones so watch your ankles, are great to mix up the scenery. It is a very safe area to run as it is heavily patrolled by the naval guards, is well lit and has security cameras on most street corners. This is not as a result of crime but is all for the elite and wealthy locals who call Puerto Madero home.
Running in Palermo Parks:
Los Bosques de Palermo form the largest of Buenos Aires central parks and is the place to enjoy a long run. Lakes, forests, manicured gardens and monuments are spread amongst the open spaces. There are enough paved and unpaved trails that even a resident can follow a new route every day. Toilets and water are harder to find so go before you start and bring a bottle of water with you.
Buenos Aires Hash House Harriers:
The running club with a drinking problem has a chapter in Buenos Aires. They meet every second Sunday for a run in a new part of the city, followed by a BBQ and a few drinks. Check their Facebook page for upcoming runs
Running with the birds in Reserva Ecologica (Costanera Sur)
I saw a turtle this morning. He looked a little lost, as one would expect a turtle to look in huge city like Buenos Aires. I was a good neighbour though and pointed out the way to the closest lagoon as he stumbled along one of the paths of the Reserva Ecológica Costanera Sur, the huge parkland nudged between the million dollar apartments of Puerto Madero and the open expanses of the River Plate.
I begin many of my mornings jogging within the Reserve. It is research for when the hordes join the Vamos Spanish Running Club, as it would be good idea that at least one of us has good knowledge on the trails, water stops and toilet locations. I find it relaxing work as I can enjoy the sunrise, take in the scenery and being iPodless I tune into the sounds of the wildlife.
If I was a bird watcher, I would be able to name the amazing variety of birds I see and hear. But I’m not, so I can’t. However every morning there is a group of army camouflaged photographers with lenses halve the size of themselves (also camouflaged), lugging tripods and whistling odd calls. They no doubt are the people to ask about the birds because they get very animated when a little black bird flies overhead and positively ecstatic when a pair of falcon looking eagle raptors types are spied in a tree.
On the edge of the running trails there are always guinea pigs, nibbling on the grass. Not the variety you can have as a pet, nor the type the Peruvians eat but from the family at least. They run back into the bushes before you can get too close but less skittish are the lizards, frogs and as I discovered this morning, turtles.
So if you want to learn about the birds in the Reserve join the camera toting crew or one of the free weekend guided walks. If you prefer a casual jog along the dirt tracks of the wetlands with a group who know where there are views of the river, the quickest way through the lagoons and the best trails for spotting wildlife join the Vamos Spanish Running Club.
Running in Belgrano’s Barrancas:
Another gem in Buenos Aires’ running landscape is the Barrancas de Belgrano. This space comprises a series of landscaped terraces that cascade downhill, offering runners a bit of elevation change, which is rare in the predominantly flat city. As you jog through, you’ll be surrounded by towering trees, beautiful sculptures, and a central gazebo that often plays host to tango dancers in the evening. The paths are well-maintained and wind around in a way that allows you to stretch out your run as long or short as you’d like.
Just a stone’s throw away from the bustling Chinatown, Barrancas provides a serene escape from the urban hustle. And if you time your run right, you might just catch one of the local aerobic classes or tai chi groups that convene in the park, adding a touch of vibrant local culture to your workout.
After your run, if you’re looking to replenish those lost electrolytes, there are plenty of kiosks around the area serving refreshing drinks and local snacks. Or, for a more substantial post-run meal, the nearby Chinatown offers a plethora of options.
The Night Runners of Buenos Aires:
There’s a certain charm in running under the city lights, and Buenos Aires is no exception. If you’re a night owl, consider joining one of the city’s nocturnal running clubs. These groups usually set out after sunset, taking advantage of the cooler temperatures and the enchanting cityscape lit up against the night sky.
Running at night offers a completely different perspective of Buenos Aires. The streets are less crowded, the air is crisper, and there’s a sense of camaraderie among fellow night runners. Plus, many of these clubs end their runs at local bars or cafes, turning the activity into a social event. It’s an excellent way to meet locals, fellow expats, and make new friends while staying fit!
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