Renowned for its world-class vineyards, breathtaking landscapes, and rich heritage, Mendoza, Argentina is a vibrant city great for visitors wanting a taste of the luxury and outdoors in Argentina. With origins tracing back to Spanish colonization, Mendoza was established in 1561 by settlers from Chile. Named after the Spanish Governor of the region, the term “Mendoza” translates from Basque to “cold mountain.” Mendoza became associated with Argentina in lieu of Chile in the mid-1800s and shortly thereafter suffered an earthquake that devastated much of the city. Even with a loss of life of roughly 4,300 people, Mendoza climbed back into the Argentine cultural milieu and is now known as the wine capital of the nation. Contributing about 70% of the country’s present wine production, Mendoza is also beloved for its beautiful Andes mountain backdrop and plethora of cultural events, including the Vendimia Festival. Contact Gray Line Worldwide and plan your trip to Mendoza today!
Tour Expert, Gray Line Mendoza
A natural reserve located in Mendoza Province, Aconcagua Provincial Park is home to the highest mountain in the Western Hemisphere: Mount Aconcagua. Reaching a remarkable height of 22,838 feet (6,961 meters) above sea level, this peak formally entered the European lexicon after attempts to climb it by a German exploration team in the 1880s failed. Translating from the Quechua language to roughly “Stone Sentinel,” Aconcagua has played a significant role in the religious and cultural practices of indigenous groups local to the region. Keep your eyes peeled for native Andean foxes, guanacos, and numerous bird species when you visit the park.
A series of picturesque routes within Argentina’s Mendoza wine region, the Mendoza Wine Roads produce some of the world's finest wines. Bordered by the Andes Mountains, the acres of vineyards in this region provide ample opportunity for wine tasting tours, gourmet dining, and outdoor experiences on the cusp of the Andes foothills. Established in the colonial era, Mendoza’s wineries gained prominence in the 1800s as newly arrived European immigrants — particularly Italians and Spaniards — introduced modern winemaking techniques. Now responsible for about 70% of Argentina’s overall wine production, the region once known as Cuyo is the largest of its kind in Latin America. Discover distinct flavor varieties in Maipú, Luján de Cuyo, and the Uco Valley or book a private blending session. Whether you’re a connoisseur, food lover, or an outdoors enthusiast, you’ll find an activity for everyone in Mendoza!
Situated on the Diamante River in Mendoza Province, Los Reyunos Dam is roughly 22 miles from the city of San Rafael and is a significant support for the region’s energy needs. Constructed primarily for hydroelectric power generation, the dam is built with stone and compacted clay. Rising 440 feet (130 meters) high, the facility employs a pumped-storage power station to stabilize water levels and manage electricity demand. Los Reyunos’ reservoir is a great place to engage in some watersports fun, and the Los Reyunos Fishing and Nautical Club allows guests to participate in sport fishing activities. For a relaxing and rejuvenating ride, book a boat tour around the dam and try to spot the native chinchillas hiding near the shores.
Atuel Canyon is a stunning natural formation located about 70 kilometers from Mendoza proper. The canyon stretches over 30 kilometers and continues to be carved by the Atuel River. The colorful rock formations and geological shapes are the result of thousands of years of water and wind erosion. Recognizable formations carry affectionate local names like El Buho (the owl), El Hongo (the mushroom), and El Astronauta (the astronaut). The Atuel River rapids are great for fans of whitewater rafting and canoeing.
Roughly 30 minutes by vehicle away from Mendoza, guests can dip their toes into the sparkling waters of the Mendoza River via rafting. Enjoy the scenic views while taking an exciting multi-hour trip down the waterway. With various options for guests who have different skill levels in rafting, a trip to the Mendoza River is a great way to let off some steam and engage in an activity beloved even to residents. Make sure you grab some pictures with the Andean Mountains in the background!
As a particularly renowned wine-producing region in a district celebrated for its vineyards, Maipú has a rich background in viticulture of Malbec. When European immigrants settled in the Maipú region, they brought their winemaking traditions with them and eventually created a flourishing international business. Nowadays, Maipú is still considered one of Argentina’s oldest and most sophisticated wine regions. Multiple bodegas (wineries) dot the landscape of Maipú, and wine tasting typically centers on local varietals and their distinctive fruity flavor. Book a bike ride through vineyards and chart your own path through the many scenic routes open to the public. Historical landmarks like the Bodega La Rural are also great places to spend some time during your travels.
Centrally located in Mendoza, Galerías Piazza is a venue popular with both residents and visitors. Part of the city’s cultural landscape since 1964, Galerías Piazza offers a variety of culinary options that are representative of both local and international cuisine. For special occasions, festivals, or holidays, the space often hosts cultural activities that include folkloric performance and exhibitions that show off traditional artistry. Inhabiting a central location in Mendoza, the Galerías Piazza is a great starting point for visitors to further explore the city and its surroundings. Plus, it’s an opportunity to grab a bite to eat before jumping back into your adventures.
In the foothills of the Andes Mountains roughly 31 miles north of Mendoza, Villavicencio is a historical site and nature reserve known primarily for its natural hot springs. In 1680, Captain Joseph Villavicencio established the area as a spot for weary travelers. The region continued to grow in prominence, particularly after Charles Darwin visited its fossilized forest in 1835. Covering 72,000 hectares, the natural reserve provides extensive hiking trails and wildlife watching. The road to Villavicencio — the Camino del Año — is also well-known for its 365 curves and path used by General San Martín during the liberation movement from Spain. Within the reserve, you’ll also find the Canota Monument filled with petroglyphs from ancient inhabitants in the region.
Explore the clear blue waters of Potrerillos Lake and its corresponding settlement when you visit the small town located about 37 miles west of Mendoza. Originally a pass for trade and cattle traffic, the landscape that now hosts the Potrerillos Dam went through a period of significant development. Using the Mendoza River for hydroelectric power transformed the region, which is now an agricultural and tourist powerhouse. Potrerillos Lake is an ideal spot for kayaking, fishing, and sailing while local cuisine showcases asados (Argentine barbecue) and traditional dishes from local eateries.
Located in the picturesque Quebrada del Salto, El Salto Waterfall measures 40 meters in height and cascades dramatically down rocky walls in the Andes Mountains. With a landscape rich in cultural and historical Andean treasures, the waterfall is home to several trekking routes that range from moderate to challenging in difficulty levels. A 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Mendoza, an excursion to El Salto Waterfall offers the perfect way to get outdoors for visitors and locals alike.
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Es una buena opcion para poder ver la ciudad de Buenos Aires y luego decidir a que barrios regresar ya mas a detalle.
The Cuenca transportation was modern. Clean, comfortable, timely, and efficient. The Cuenca drivers and tour guides were truly friendly, knowledgeable, helpful, patient, concerned, and enjoyable to visit with about the cultures, languages, beautiful landmarks, animals, etc. We ha...
Me encantó la dinámica, este servicio le brinda a los turistas la oportunidad de conocer cada rincón de la ciudad.