Tunuyan is the gateway to the Uco Valley, Mendoza's most prestigious wine sub-region (lat -33.5797, lng -69.0169). Located 80 km south of Mendoza city, it is home to some of the world's most awarded wineries: Salentein (with its Killka art space), O. Fournier (avant-garde architecture), Andeluna (vineyards at 1,300 m). The Manzano Historico is where General San Martin received the surrender of royalist troops in 1817. The zone also produces premium olive oil and cherries (season: November-December).
Getting there — distances & times
| From | Distance | Flight | Bus | Drive |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New York (JFK) | 8300 km | 11 h + 2 h layover | — | — |
| Madrid (MAD) | 10200 km | 13 h + 2 h layover | — | — |
| Buenos Aires (EZE) | 1050 km | 1 h 45 | 14 h | 11 h |
| Santiago (SCL) | 370 km | 55 min | 6–8 h | 5 h |
| Córdoba | 670 km | 1 h 10 | 9 h | 7 h |
| San Juan | 170 km | — | 2 h 30 | 2 h |
| Bariloche (BRC) | 1140 km | 1 h 50 | 18 h | 14 h |
Month-by-month climate
| Month | Temp. | Rain | Crowds | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 18° / 33°C | 25 mm | Hot & dry summer | |
| Feb | 17° / 31°C | 30 mm | ||
| Mar | 14° / 28°C | 20 mm | Harvest season | |
| Apr | 10° / 23°C | 15 mm | ||
| May | 5° / 18°C | 8 mm | ||
| Jun | 2° / 14°C | 5 mm | ||
| Jul | 2° / 14°C | 8 mm | Ski Las Leñas | |
| Aug | 4° / 17°C | 8 mm | ||
| Sep | 7° / 21°C | 12 mm | Vineyard bloom | |
| Oct | 11° / 25°C | 15 mm | ||
| Nov | 14° / 28°C | 20 mm | ||
| Dec | 17° / 31°C | 25 mm |
How to Get There
80 km south of Mendoza via Route 40. 1 hour by car. Bus from Mendoza: 1.5 hours, USD 3-5. Organized wine tours: USD 50-80 from Mendoza.
What to See and Do
Bodega Salentein & Killka Art Space
The most-visited winery in the Uco Valley. Underground cellar in a cross shape with central amphitheater. The Killka space hosts international contemporary art. Tastings from USD 10-20. Lunch with pairing: USD 40-60.
Bodega O. Fournier
Avant-garde concrete and glass architecture with vineyards at 1,200 m. Produces high-end single-parcel Malbec. Spectacular Andes views from the terrace.
Bodega Andeluna
Vineyards at 1,300 m producing some of Argentina's most expressive Malbecs. More intimate and personalized experience.
Manzano Historico
National historic site where General San Martin met with Chilean representatives in 1817 after the Battle of Chacabuco. Mountain setting with streams and trails. 30 km from Tunuyan center on gravel road.
Olives, Cherries and Fruit
Tunuyan is a major producer of premium olive oil. Farms offer visits with tastings. In November-December, cherry harvest allows pick-your-own experiences.
When to Visit
- Autumn (March-May): Harvest season. Vineyards turn red and gold. Ideal for wine tourism.
- Spring (September-November): Vineyards bloom. Cherry harvest in November.
