Making the most of DevConnect Argentina 2025

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This guide is written with one purpose: to help you get the most out of DevConnect. It will help you make the most of DevConnect Buenos Aires 2025, from travel and local tips to networking and funding opportunities. It covers everything you need to plan your trip, connect with builders, and explore Argentina, so that your DevConnect experience is smooth, productive, and memorable.
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About DevConnect
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The Ethereum World’s Fair Complete Travel and Event Guide
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The first Ethereum World’s Fair will take place from 17 to 22 November 2025 at La Rural in Buenos Aires. For six days, the venue will become a hands on showcase of Ethereum in action, including stablecoins, onchain identity, DeFi, decentralized social, art, and games. Around 15,000 builders, creators, and newcomers are expected to attend.
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Argentina is one of the most active crypto markets in the world, with nearly 5 million people using digital assets every day. Crypto is not only a trend here, it is a practical tool for saving, spending, and building. Because of high inflation, many local communities and developers have turned to Ethereum.

Local groups such as Crecimiento, SEED Latam, Ethereum Argentina, Mujeres en Crypto, Nodo Serrano, and ETH Kipu are ready to welcome visitors.

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In this guide you will find things like:
  • Top 5 things to do in Buenos Aires
  • Top 5 food experiences
  • Top 5 trips beyond Buenos Aires, such as Iguazú Falls
  • Top Telegram and online communities to join before going to DevConnect
  • And more
Side Events


Good side events can turn a good crypto conference into a great one.

Here are links to side events:

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Here are top 6 side summits, hackathons, or conferences happening at the same time:
Essential Information
  • Airports: Buenos Aires has two airports. Ministro Pistarini International Airport (EZE) for international flights, and Aeroparque Jorge Newbery (AEP) for domestic and regional flights.
  • Timezone: UTC minus 3
  • Currency: Argentine Peso (ARS)
  • Language: Spanish
  • Average temperature in November: 16 to 26 °C (61 to 79 °F)
  • Water: Tap water is generally safe to drink
  • Power: 220 V, plug types C (European two pin) and Type I
  • Tipping: 10 percent is standard in restaurants.
  • Emergency numbers: 911 (police), 107 (ambulance), 100 (fire department), 103 (civil defence, for floods, storms, etc.), 147 (traffic emergencies in Buenos Aires City).

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Pro traveler tips: money and payments in Argentina

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  1. ATMs and cash safety
  • Avoid withdrawing large amounts from ATMs. They usually apply the official rate, which can be 40 to 50 percent worse than the Blue Dollar rate.
  • If you must withdraw, use ATMs from Banco Galicia, BBVA, or Santander Río. They tend to be more reliable.
  • Always withdraw inside a bank or shopping mall, not from a street ATM, and cover your PIN when typing.
  1. Cash handling
  • Carry small bills (1,000 ARS and below) for taxis and small shops.
  • Many businesses do not have change for large notes.
  • Keep your cash in two places (for example hotel safe and on you) so you do not lose everything if you are pickpocketed.
  1. USD best practices
  • Bring clean 50 USD or 100 USD bills. Old, torn, or written on bills may get a lower rate.
  • Count pesos carefully when exchanging. You will often receive a mix of denominations.
  • Avoid exchanging at airports. Rates there are usually very low.
  1. Western Union pickup
  • This is one of the safest and most efficient ways for travelers to get pesos at a good rate.
  • Use the Western Union app or website, send money to yourself, and pick it up in cash at any official location (search “Western Union sucursal” in Google Maps).
  • Bring your passport and your tracking number (MTCN).
  • You will get a rate close to the Blue Dollar rate.
  1. Digital payments
  • If you are staying longer, ask a local friend or your host to help you pay with Mercado Pago. You can reimburse them in USD or stablecoins.
  • For crypto users, Binance Pay, Lemon, and Belo are popular with local merchants.
  1. Avoid card surprises
  • Even when a card works, some merchants apply the official rate.
  • Confirm before paying. Ask: “¿A qué tipo de cambio?” (What exchange rate?)
  • If they use the tarjeta MEP or dólar turista rate, it is fine. This is usually better than the official rate.
  1. Emergency backup
  • Keep 100 USD in cash and a small stablecoin balance (for example USDT) as backup.
  • In smaller towns, ATMs often run out of cash on weekends.

       8.)Important things to notw ( as adviced by locals)

  • Money, transport, and accommodation notes
    • You can go to known places to exchange money, for example Sur Finanzas.
    • They have many branches in Buenos Aires, they are visible, and the process is not shady.
    Payments
    • You mentioned Mercado Pago. There is a second option called MODO, which is used in many restaurants and stores.
    • A very safe option is Lemon. You can transfer USDT to your account and pay at almost the dollar blue rate.
    • Some people do not use cash at all when they have Lemon.

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Visas

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All DevConnect participants can apply through a special visa program created with the Argentine immigration office to make the process easier.

  1. Secure your DevConnect ticket.
  2. Complete the visa form provided at DevConnect.org. Once approved, you will receive instructions for your digital visa to enter Argentina for the event.

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Flights and accommodation

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DevConnect has partnered with Betrusty, EtherFi, and Tripsha to offer special rates for attendees. Visit DevConnect.org/perks, connect your Zupass to verify your DevConnect ARG ticket, and claim your discounts.

  • Accommodation
    • Booking.com is not always the best option because the host or hotel can sometimes see your card details, including the card number.
    • This has led to fraud attempts. For example, after a trip to Brazil, someone tried to use the card to buy on Temu.


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Where to stay (neighbourhood guide)
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Some recommended areas and what they are like:
  • Palermo Soho / Hollywood / Botánico (0 to 1 km, 5 to 15 minutes walk). Lively, creative, full of cafés, bars, and nightlife.
  • Las Cañitas (about 1.5 km, 5 minutes by taxi). Food district, safe, relaxed.
  • Palermo Chico (about 1 km, 5 minutes by taxi). Quiet, green, upscale, near museums.
  • Recoleta (about 3 km, 10 minutes by taxi). Classic architecture and many cafés.
  • Belgrano (about 3 km, 10 minutes by taxi). Residential, family friendly, good for longer stays.
  • Villa Crespo / Colegiales (about 2 km, 8 minutes by taxi). More affordable, creative area, new food and music spots.

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Getting around Buenos Aires
  • Taxi vs apps: According to locals, it is better to use apps like Cabify because taxis can sometimes overcharge.
  • From the airport (EZE): Use the Tienda León bus if you are on a budget, or book a taxi in advance through Cabify. For domestic flights, AEP is much closer to central Buenos Aires.
  • Public transport: The subway and buses accept tap to pay with your phone or a contactless card.
  • Ride apps: Cabify and Didi are usually more reliable than Uber.
  • Food delivery: Rappi, Pedidos Ya, and Uber Eats are the main services.
Top Transport tips:
  • It is better to use Uber, Cabify, or the official taxi apps because you will know the price before the ride.
  • For ride apps, Cabify and Uber are the best options.
  • Didi drivers often cancel if you pay with card, and some cars are not clean.

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Paying with crypto

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More than 100 cafés and shops in Buenos Aires accept USDT or DAI with QR codes. Look for “Cripto accepted” signs. The team at Peanut has a live map of merchants that accept crypto here.

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Exploring Latin America before DevConnect

  • Ethereum Chile: 24 to 25 October 2025
  • ETH Latam, São Paulo, Brazil: 8 to 9 November 2025
  • Edge City Patagonia: 18 October to 15 November 2025 (20 percent off with DevConnect ticket)
  • Invisible Garden, Buenos Aires: 27 October to 16 November 2025
  • Funding the Commons, Buenos Aires: 24 October to 14 November 2025

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Top tips
Here are some tips on how to network effectively.
  1. Use Telegram and Zupass well
    Join @ethbuenosaires and unlock DevConnect chats by verifying your ticket through Zupass. This gives you access to exclusive groups, real time meetups, and RSVP links for private events. Keep Telegram open during the week because it is where people coordinate.
  2. Show up early and stay out late
    Mornings (coffee lines, breakfasts) are good for relaxed conversations. Evenings (after parties, socials) are where stronger connections happen. Buenos Aires runs late. Most dinners start around 9 pm and parties go past midnight. Pace yourself but try not to miss these times.
  3. Talk in hallways, not only in talks
    Some of the best conversations happen between sessions. Spend time in co working areas, lounges, or near food stands at La Rural. A simple “What project are you working on?” is a good opener.
  4. Use meals for networking
    Invite someone to lunch, join a dinner table, or attend events like FoodConnect. Mealtimes are good for unstructured, longer conversations. Keep your schedule flexible around lunch and dinner.

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Get featured

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If you are a builder or founder, do not only build, tell your story. Many startups miss chances for visibility because they do not talk to media, podcasts, or creators in Web3.

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Reach out to podcasters, YouTubers, and content creators who cover blockchain and crypto. Share what you are building and ask if you can be featured or speak on their platform. Media exposure during DevConnect can help with partnerships, investment, and community growth.

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At the Web3 with Sam Kamani podcast I have interviewed more than 350 founders from leading Layer 1, Layer 2, and protocol teams around the world.

If you are building something innovative and believe the world should know about it, reach out via www.web3pod.xyz so we can share your story. You can also reach out to me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samkamani/

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Get funded

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Below are some funding options to explore during DevConnect:
  • Ethereum Foundation ESP. Grants for infrastructure, tooling, and community. Paused in mid 2025, expected to relaunch.
  • Gitcoin Grants. Quadratic funding for public goods. Several rounds each year.
  • Optimism RetroPGF. Retroactive OP token funding for impactful public goods.
  • MolochDAO. Member voted grants for Ethereum infrastructure.
  • Uniswap Foundation. Grants for DeFi tools, research, and community.
  • Aave Grants DAO. Small grants for tools and integrations.
  • Chainlink Grants. Funding for oracles, data feeds, and tooling.
  • Filecoin Grants. Open and RFP based grants for storage and data infrastructure.
  • Polygon Grants. Up to 100 million POL per year for apps and infrastructure on Polygon.
  • Arbitrum Foundation. Grants, plus a 190 million dollar gaming fund and RFPs.
  • Base Camp (Coinbase). Accelerator plus funding for startups building in the Base ecosystem.
  • Outlier Ventures. 100,000 dollars and token launch support for Web3 founders.
  • Techstars Web3. 120,000 dollar investment and mentor driven accelerator.
  • Venture capital (for example a16z, Paradigm). For startups with traction or a strong team.
  • ETHGlobal hackathons. Prize pools of 200,000 dollars or more and possible follow on funding.
  • Protocol bounties. Build integrations or features for sponsors and receive rewards.
  • Targeted RFPs. Solve a defined problem for a grant (for example Filecoin or Solana).
  • DevConnect 2025 bounties. Compete in Buenos Aires hackathons with prizes.
  • Destino DevConnect Grants. Up to 1,000 dollars for community events in Latin America.

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Tips to get your project funded and noticed
  1. Craft a clear 30 second pitch
    Most investors and founders at DevConnect will be busy. Be ready with one sentence that explains what you are building, who it is for, and why it matters now.
    Example: “We help crypto funds automate cross venue execution with AI. It is like Bloomberg Terminal for Web3.”
  2. Host or co host a side event
    DevConnect runs on side sessions. Partner with a protocol, fund, or media outlet to host a small mixer, panel, or demo evening. This gives you visibility, credibility, and a reason to invite investors.
  3. Be visible at the Ethereum World’s Fair
    Get a booth or work with someone who has one. Prepare a simple demo, clear visuals, and QR codes that link to your deck or waitlist. In person engagement during the week is more powerful than online reach.
  4. Use warm introductions before you arrive
    Message people early on LinkedIn, Telegram, or X to set meetings. Mention that you will both be at DevConnect. A shared event makes people more willing to meet.
  5. Position yourself as a thought leader
    Apply to speak on panels or technical sessions. If speaking slots are full, post a strong insight on X or Farcaster about Ethereum, DeFi, or infrastructure. Timely content still signals expertise.
  6. Partner with ecosystem players
    Instead of only pitching investors, collaborate with protocols, L2s, or tools that people already trust. Joint announcements or integrations get noticed faster.
  7. Use content as leverage
    Record short daily videos, write short threads, or post updates with the DevConnect hashtag. Tag speakers, projects, and funds you meet. People remember builders who amplify the ecosystem.
  8. Bring a one pager or mini deck
    Keep it simple: problem, product, traction, team, and your ask. Print a few copies or make it scannable with a QR code. Physical material still works well at events.
  9. Follow up quickly
    Within 24 hours of meeting someone, send a thank you and the next step (deck, link, or call). Speed matters. Many potential deals are lost because people do not follow up.
  10. Align your story with the main 2025 narratives
    Connect what you are building to the themes that will be popular at DevConnect 2025 such as Ethereum scaling, restaking, on chain infrastructure, real world assets, or AI integration. Investors prefer projects that fit clear narratives.

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Sim cards

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Use eSIMs for instant setup. The fastest option is to buy an international eSIM before you arrive. Popular options that work well in Argentina include:

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They activate instantly and run on local networks such as Personal, Movistar, or Claro. Buy and install it before landing if possible.

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Choose a physical SIM only if you will stay longer

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If your phone is unlocked and you are staying more than a week, local prepaid SIMs are cheaper. The three main carriers are:

  • Personal
  • Movistar
  • Claro

You can find them at official stores in Palermo, Recoleta, or near shopping centers. Airport kiosks sometimes charge higher prices.


Bring your passport

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You will need your passport to register a physical SIM card. Argentine law requires ID verification for new SIM activations.

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Expect data to be affordable

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Local data plans are inexpensive, about 5 to 10 USD for 5 to 10 GB on prepaid packages. Most carriers also offer unlimited WhatsApp messaging.

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Coverage ranking

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  • Movistar: strongest coverage in Buenos Aires and most urban areas.
  • Personal: good data speeds and strong in central and northern Argentina.
  • Claro: wide coverage across the country, good reliability.

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Topping up

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For local SIMs, you can recharge easily at kiosks labeled “Recarga Virtual,” through the Mercado Pago app, or in convenience stores.
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Bring a backup eSIM

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If you are attending DevConnect and moving between venues, it is a good idea to have a second eSIM from another provider in case one network is slow during large events.

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Avoid airport Wi Fi for activation

‍Wi Fi at Ezeiza Airport can be unstable. Activate your eSIM in advance or wait until you reach your accommodation.

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Share hotspots sparingly

‍Local carriers sometimes slow down hotspot use on prepaid plans. If you need to share internet with a laptop, choose a plan that says “hotspot allowed.”

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Keep a QR backup of your eSIM

‍Take a screenshot or store the eSIM QR in a cloud folder. If you reset your phone or change devices during travel, you will need it to install the eSIM again.

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Top 5s in Buenos Aires and Argentina
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Five must do activities in Buenos Aires during DevConnect
  1. Teatro Colón tour
    Take a 45 minute tour of one of the world’s best opera houses. Beautiful architecture and world class sound make it a must visit.
  2. Street art safari
    Explore Palermo and Colegiales to see murals by artists like Martin Ron and Jaz. Every corner has color and local stories. Buenos Aires has a very creative street art scene.
  3. Milonga night (tango club)
    Skip the tourist tango shows. Go to Salón Canning around midnight and watch or try tango the way locals do it. It is lively and authentic.
  4. Ethereum World’s Fair at DevConnect
    Visit La Rural to see Web3 projects and meet people from around the world. The expo is the center of Ethereum activity during DevConnect week.
  5. Jacaranda walks
    Walk under the purple jacaranda trees in Recoleta or Palermo parks. November is spring in Buenos Aires and the city looks very beautiful.

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Top 5 foods to try in Buenos Aires

  • San Telmo Market
    Visit this historic indoor market filled with local food stalls. Try empanadas, choripán, or pastries.
  • Wine tasting at Pain et Vin
    Taste Argentina’s best Malbec and other wines in this small Palermo wine bar. Staff explain every wine.
  • Ice cream at Rapanui
    People in Argentina love gelato. Try dulce de leche or chocolate patagónico here.
  • Coffee at LAB Tostadores de Café
    Try the specialty coffee scene in Buenos Aires. LAB roasts its own coffee and serves very good flat whites.
  • Feria de Mataderos
    Visit this weekend fair on the edge of the city to try regional dishes such as locro and humita. It is a good way to experience Argentina’s rural culture.

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Top 5 things to do outside Buenos Aires, Argentina

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Iguazú Falls (Misiones Province)
See one of the most impressive waterfalls in the world, with many cascades surrounded by rainforest. The walkways let you get close to the Devil’s Throat. Plan at least one full day for nature, wildlife, and the experience.
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2.) Mendoza and the wine region (Mendoza Province)

Visit Argentina’s main wine region. Taste Malbec and other wines, tour vineyards with the Andes in the background, and enjoy good food in a relaxed setting. This is a good option if you want a mix of luxury, nature, and slow travel.

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3.) El Calafate and Perito Moreno Glacier (Santa Cruz Province, Patagonia)

Explore the glacier region of Patagonia. The Perito Moreno Glacier is easy to access, very dramatic, and you can hear and see ice falling. This is a good trip if you want outdoor adventure, open spaces, and raw nature.

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4.)Bariloche and the Lake District (Río Negro Province)

Visit this alpine style town surrounded by lakes and forests in northern Patagonia. You can hike, sail, enjoy mountain views, and relax in cafés and chocolate shops. It is a slower pace but very scenic.

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5.)Salta and the Northwest (Salta Province)

See a different cultural side of Argentina. There is colonial architecture, Andean landscapes, colorful mountains like Quebrada de Humahuaca, local indigenous heritage, and smaller wine regions. It is rich in culture and geography.

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Safety snapshot

  • Public transport: Watch for pickpockets during rush hour. Keep your bag in front of you and avoid using your phone near doors or bus stops.
  • Walking: Avoid using your phone while walking, especially on main avenues. Carry a digital copy of your passport.
  • At night: Move in groups and avoid less familiar areas such as Constitución, Once, or Microcentro.
  • Safe areas: Palermo, Recoleta, Belgrano, Villa Crespo, Las Cañitas, Colegiales, and Puerto Madero.

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Telegram and online communities

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Stay connected with the Ethereum and DevConnect communities before, during, and after the event through these channels:

  1. Ethereum Argentina
    The main hub for local Ethereum enthusiasts, developers, and visitors attending DevConnect Buenos Aires.
  2. SEED Latam
    A very active Latin American Ethereum community focused on education, decentralization, and regional growth.
  3. ETH Kipu
    A builders community focused on Ethereum ecosystem development across Latin America.
  4. Mujeres en Crypto
    A community for women and allies in the blockchain space to connect, learn, and collaborate.
  5. ETH Buenos Aires Builders Hub
    A networking space for local and international builders attending DevConnect and ETH Buenos Aires side events.
  6. DevConnect Announcements (official)
    The verified channel for official event updates, logistics, and last minute announcements.

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About the author

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Sam Kamani is a well known voice in the Web3, blockchain, and crypto space.
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He hosts the “Web3 with Sam Kamani” podcast, where he has interviewed industry leaders, from Vitalik, the founder of Ethereum, to heads of major blockchain networks and centralized exchanges. This has made him a trusted authority in the ecosystem.
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He is an Amazon bestselling author of “The 30 Day Startup.” Beyond content creation, Sam is an active investor and serial entrepreneur with a record of building and successfully exiting two startups. His experience covers early stage innovation, product market fit, scaling, and acquisition.
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He is also a regular speaker and media contributor at global Web3 events, where he shares practical insights and connects builders with key players in the crypto industry.
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You can learn more about him through his Web3 podcast, personal site, LinkedIn, or his book “The 30 Day Startup.”

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