Discover the beauty of Mendoza, Argentina, where enchanting vineyards and exhilarating adventures await just a short flight away from Buenos Aires and neighbouring countries Brazil and Chile.
Secure your seatbelts, to embark on this trip to Mendoza, through this picturesque paradise, renowned for its world-class wines and breath-taking landscapes.
Mendoza's wine regions
Mendoza’s wine reputation is globally celebrated, boasting diverse terroirs, exceptional grape varieties, and remarkable wines. Dive into the heart of this wine lover’s paradise with three prominent regions: Maipú, Luján de Cuyo, and Valle de Uco.
Maipú: Immerse yourself in history and tradition just east of Mendoza city. Explore historic wineries dating back to the 19th century, where traditional winemaking techniques await discovery alongside a wide range of grape varieties including Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Torrontés.
Luján de Cuyo: Known as the birthplace of Malbec, this region south of Mendoza city offers prestigious vineyards set amidst high-altitude terroirs. Experience intimate tastings and guided vineyard tours amidst alluvial soils and ample sunlight, producing rich, full-bodied wines. Visitors to Luján de Cuyo can expect intimate tastings, guided vineyard tours, and opportunities to sample a diverse array of Malbecs, Cabernet Sauvignons, and Merlots.
Valle de Uco: Nestled in the Andes Mountains, this region captivates with stunning natural beauty and high-altitude vineyards. Enjoy cool climates and mineral-rich soils that yield some of Argentina’s most acclaimed wines, including Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Chardonnay, as well as emerging varieties like Syrah and Petit Verdot.
Crafting your 5-day Itinerary
Apart of wine tourism, Mendoza is also known for outdoors activities such as hiking, horse riding and barbecues, lots of barbecues. To make the most of your Mendoza adventure, we recommend spending at least 5 days packed with exploration and relaxation.
- Day 1: Arrive in Mendoza and explore the city’s highlights, including Plaza Independencia and Cerro de la Gloria for a panoramic view. End your day with a traditional Argentine asado in one of the restaurants offers at calle Sarmiento, or calle Aristides Villanueva, and experience Mendoza’s vibrant nightlife.
- Day 2: Venture to Maipú (aprox. 15kms from Mendoza city) and discover historic wineries like Trapiche and Familia Zuccardi, renowned for their exceptional wines and rich heritage. Maipú boasts the presence of Casa Vigil, a prestigious Michellin-starred restaurant offering culinary delights that complement the region’s exquisite wines.
- Day 3: Embark on a journey to Luján de Cuyo, famed for its Malbec. Visit Bodega Catena Zapata for a tour of its renowned vineyards and indulge in a tasting of their iconic Malbecs. We recommend you spend the evening in Lujan de Cuyo or Valle de Uco, for an early start next day.
- Day 4: Journey to Valle de Uco, the crown jewel of Mendoza’s wine regions. Explore the historic Bodega Rutini, pioneer establishment in this area, and marvel at the architectural wonders of Bodega Salentein. Indulge in a gourmet lunch at Bodega Huentala, featuring their newly opened restaurant, RASTRO, where you can enjoy exquisite culinary creations along breath-taking vineyard views. Unwind on the terrace and soak in the sunset before heading back to Mendoza city for a last day of adventure.
- Day 5: Dive into a day trip adrenaline-fueled activity like horseback riding through the Andean foothills, white-water rafting in the Mendoza River, or trekking in Aconcagua.
Tips when visiting Mendoza
- Plan Ahead: Book winery visits in advance and pin your hotel location on Google Maps to minimize travel time. Consider staying in vineyard lodges or boutique hotels for an authentic experience.
- Rent a Car: Opt for car rental at the airport to easily navigate between Mendoza’s sub-regions. Book in advance for better deals but be mindful of drink and drive.
- Stay Central: Start and end your trip with a hotel in Mendoza city center, conveniently located for exploring Maipú, get picked up for the day trip adventure on day 5, and leave to the airport at the end of the trip.
- Seasonal Considerations: Mendoza experiences extreme temperatures, with hot summers and cold winters. Consider visiting in spring for more affordable tourist services, this is between September and November.
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Mendoza’s wine regions and diverse activities with our planned itinerary. Whether you’re savouring fine wines, embracing adventure, or immersing yourself in culture, Mendoza promises an experience that will linger in your memory, beckoning you to return again and again. Start planning your dream trip to Mendoza today!