Mendoza Wine Explorer

Mendoza is the undisputed capital of Argentine wine and one of the most important wine tourism destinations in the world. Nestled at the foot of the Andes mountains, this province combines spectacular mountain landscapes with over 1,200 wineries producing some of the finest Malbec on the planet. Every year, thousands of travelers come to Mendoza to tour its vineyards, taste world-class wines and enjoy the regional cuisine.

In this guide you will find everything you need to plan your trip to Mendoza: from the best wineries to visit, to high-mountain excursions, detailed itineraries, prices updated to April 2026, and practical tips based on real experience.

Mendoza's wine regions

Maipu: the cradle of Mendoza wine

Just 20 minutes from downtown Mendoza, Maipu is the most accessible wine region and the favorite for budget travelers. It is home to historic wineries like Trapiche and Lopez, and is the starting point for the famous bike tour through wineries. Renting a bike costs just USD 10 per day and lets you visit 4-6 wineries at your own pace, with stops at olive oil factories and artisan chocolate shops.

Lujan de Cuyo: South America's first DOC

Considered the "first controlled designation of origin zone in South America," Lujan de Cuyo is home to some of Argentina's most prestigious wineries: Catena Zapata, Achaval Ferrer, Ruca Malen and Chandon. Vineyards stretch between 850 and 1,100 meters altitude, with Malbec vines over 80 years old.

Valle de Uco: high-altitude wines

About 100 km south of the city, Valle de Uco is the trendiest wine region, where vineyards reach altitudes of up to 1,500 meters above sea level. Home to iconic wineries like Salentein, Zuccardi (named best winery in the world in 2023), Andeluna and Domaine Bousquet.

Beyond wine: things to do in Mendoza

High Mountain: Aconcagua and beyond

The High Mountain excursion is unmissable. From Mendoza, you drive along Route 7 toward Chile, passing through Potrerillos, Uspallata, Puente del Inca (a natural rock bridge) and the Aconcagua viewpoint — the highest mountain in the Americas at 6,962 meters. The full-day tour costs from USD 59.40 with Civitatis.

Hot springs and nature

The Cacheuta hot springs are a Mendoza classic. Just 40 km from the city, this thermal park features natural pools at different temperatures surrounded by Andean scenery. The excursion costs from USD 40. Another option is Potrerillos for whitewater rafting (from USD 40) or paragliding (USD 125).

How to get to Mendoza

Mendoza International Airport (MDZ) receives direct flights from Buenos Aires (2 hours), Cordoba, Bariloche and Santiago de Chile. Low-cost airlines like Flybondi and JetSmart offer fares from USD 35. From the airport, a private transfer to downtown costs from USD 6 with Civitatis (9.2/10 rating).

When to visit Mendoza

• Harvest (Feb-Mar): The Vendimia festival transforms the province. Grape picking, parades and wine celebrations.
• Autumn (Apr-May): Vineyards turn red and gold. Perfect temperatures, fewer tourists. Our favorite season.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Skiing at Las Lenas. Quiet wineries, lowest prices.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Vineyards bloom. Perfect weather for cycling and trekking.
• Summer (Dec-Feb): Hot (up to 38C) but ideal for rafting, mountain activities.

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