Uncover the Magic of the Land of Sun and good Wine
Known as the “Land of Sun and Good Wine,” Mendoza is not just famous for its exquisite Malbecs.
This region offers a complete experience that combines breathtaking landscapes, exciting activities, and, of course, world-class wines. But limiting your visit to traditional wine tastings would be like going to Paris and only seeing the Eiffel Tower. There’s so much more to discover!
Mendoza: Much more than Malbec
Whether you want to explore its regions, taste its distinctive wines or enjoy the outdoor activities on offer, Mendoza has a charm that invites everyone to immerse themselves in a destination that combines nature, culture, adventure and world-class gastronomy. Every corner of this province has something special to offer all year round, from the central valleys to the hidden corners of Uco and Maipú. An experience well worth adding to your bucket list. Discover Mendoza’s Wine Region
Exploring the Wine Valleys: a Sensory Adventure
The wine region is centred around the Central Valley, which is home to some of the country’s most famous wineries. Visitors can enjoy a tour of the vineyards in Luján de Cuyo and Maipú, visiting wineries such as El Enemigo, Tempus Alba and Trivento. These tours often include guided tastings and gourmet lunches in incredible settings, surrounded by the Andes and the endless vineyards.
One of the best ways to explore the area is by bike, especially through the vineyards, which are really popular in Chacras de Coria and Luján de Cuyo. If you’re looking for something more active, you can combine a bike tour with rafting on the Mendoza River for a day full of adrenaline and nature.
The Uco Valley: Where the Andes meet Wine
If you’re a wine lover or just appreciate stunning scenery, the Uco Valley, about 90 km from Mendoza, is an absolute must-see. It’s home to some of the world’s best wineries, including Piedra Infinita and Casa de Uco. You’ll find some truly top-notch wines here.
A visit to a winery in the valley usually includes a tasting, a top-notch lunch, and a stroll through vineyards that sit more than a thousand metres above sea level.
Chacras de Coria
How about touring the vineyards by bicycle? It’s a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the area. Some wineries even offer picnics among the vines, an experience that delights all your senses.
Luján de Cuyo and Maipú
Home to some of the country’s most famous wineries. Visit El Enemigo, Tempus Alba, or Trivento for guided tastings and gourmet lunches with spectacular views.
For those who want to fully immerse themselves in the world of Mendoza wine, our 4-day “Mendoza, Land of Sun & Good Wine” package offers a complete experience including visits to wineries in the Central Valleys and free time to explore the region at your own pace.
Outdoor Adventures: Mendoza beyond the Wine
Mendoza is not just synonymous with good wine. For nature lovers and adrenaline seekers, the region offers:
Horseback Riding in the Mountains
Take in the Andean trails like a true gaucho. Enjoy the vineyards and foothills of the Andes at sunset. There are several farms in the area that offer guided horseback rides along scenic trails, across crystal-clear streams, and through native forests.
At the end of the ride, you’ll enjoy a traditional Argentine barbecue under the stars. Imagine cutting into a juicy bife de chorizo while listening to stories of life on the pampas! It’s an experience that appeals to all your senses and connects you with the essence of Argentinean culture.
Rafting on the Mendoza River
If you’re looking for an adventure, Mendoza is the place to go. You can go rafting on the Mendoza River and experience the rush of navigating class III and IV rapids while surrounded by a breathtaking canyon and mountain scenery.
The best part is that you can combine this experience with a visit to a winery. Start your day with the thrill of rafting and end it with a premium Malbec tasting. It’s the perfect combination of adventure and refinement that makes Mendoza unique.
High-Altitude Trekking
For those seeking a more adventurous experience, high mountain tours will take you to some iconic spots like the Puente del Inca and the Aconcagua viewpoin. There are plenty of challenging treks and breathtaking routes throughout the province for those who love hiking.
Unique Experiences:
Discover Mendoza’s lesser-known side
Cacheuta Hot Springs
Just 180 kilometres from Mendoza, nestled in the heart of the Andes, lies a hidden gem: the Termas de Cacheuta Hot Springs. This thermal complex, located more than 1,200 metres above sea level, offers a unique relaxing experience.
Just picture it: you’re relaxing in pools of natural hot springs, with amazing views of the Andes. The contrast between the warm water and the fresh mountain air is simply magical. And you can enjoy spa treatments using local ingredients such as grapes and olive oil – the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation!
Stargazing in the Desert: A Celestial Spectacle
If you move a little away from the city towards the east, you’ll come across the Lavalle desert. It’s a great place to stargaze because it’s far from light pollution, so the night sky is really impressive.
There are stargazing tours that include professional telescopes and expert guides. You can even learn about constellations while enjoying a Malbec under a blanket of stars. It’s a great experience that makes you feel small and awed at the same time.
High-Altitude Gastronomy:
Mendoza it’s also a gastronomic destination. When we say high gastronomy, we mean it. Restaurants like Francis Mallmann’s Siete Fuegos offer unique culinary experiences in spectacular surroundings.
You can taste dishes prepared with ancient fire-cooking techniques while looking out at the vineyards and mountains. It’s a perfect fusion of tradition and innovation that will delight your palate and feed your soul.
Innovative Wineries and New Trends
Mendoza is at the forefront of wine innovation. Don’t miss:
Organic and Biodynamic Wineries
Mendoza is also leading the way in winemaking innovation. Wineries like Massi are going for less conventional varieties, using organic and biodynamic techniques, as well as trying out unique processes like using sultanas in wine production. There are also wineries producing vegetarian wines, which are great for anyone looking for a more natural option.
If you’re interested in something different, you can explore the ‘Sparkling Wine Route’ and discover wineries such as Cruzat, Séptima and Chandon, where high-quality sparkling wines are produced following the traditional method – the perfect pairing to celebrate life!
If you’re looking to discover the best wines South America has to offer, our 13-day “Carmenere, Malbec and Tannat” package is the perfect way to explore the region’s top wines in Argentina, Chile, and Uruguay.
How to get there and get around Mendoza
Mendoza is really easy to get to. El Plumerillo International Airport gets direct flights from Argentina’s main cities, as well as international connections from Santiago de Chile and São Paulo.
Once you’re there, it’s a great idea to rent a car so you can explore the wine valleys at your own pace. But if you don’t want to drive (especially after the tastings!), there are lots of options for organised tours and private transport services.
Mendoza is just a few hours from the Los Libertadores border crossing, so it’s easy to get to Santiago de Chile by road.
Where to stay: Options for all tastes
Mendoza has accommodation for all tastes and budgets. If you’re looking for luxury, boutique hotels like Cavas Wine Lodge in Luján de Cuyo have suites with views of the vineyards and the Andes.
For a more intimate experience, consider staying at a family-run inn in the Uco Valley. You’ll love waking up to birdsong and the aroma of freshly baked bread.
The Best Time to Visit: Mendoza awaits you all year round
Mendoza is beautiful all year round, but each season has its own charm:
- Spring (September to November): Vineyards are greening up and temperatures are pleasant, making it perfect for outdoor activities.
- Summer (December to February), it’s harvest time and festival season. The heat is ideal for enjoying the swimming pools at hotels and wineries.
- Autumn (March to May), the landscapes are tinged with gold and red, making it the perfect season for photography and hiking.
- Winter (June to August), it’s ideal for skiing and winter sports at nearby resorts.
Not sure what to choose? Our 10-day “Andean Wines“ package is a great way to experience Mendoza’s best at any time of year, plus explore other wine regions in Argentina.
Mendoza, An Experience for All Senses
Mendoza is much more than wine and mountains. It’s a destination that awakens all your senses: the taste of a premium Malbec, the aroma of an outdoor asado, the sight of the Andes at sunset, the sound of water running in a mountain stream, and the feeling of the sun on your skin as you walk through a vineyard.
Whether you come for the wine, the adventure, the gastronomy, or simply to disconnect, Mendoza has something special to offer you. It’s a destination that will surprise you, excite you, and leave you wanting to come back.
Are you ready to experience your own Mendoza adventure? At Trips South America, we’re here to help you plan the trip of your dreams. Contact us today and start preparing for a life-changing experience.
Why not let your imagination run wild and plan your next adventure at the foot of the Andes?
