Mendoza Travel Guide

1. Parque San Martin

After all this activity, have a relaxing day on the Parque San Martin grounds. Complete with its own forested park, zoo, amphitheater, large lake, restaurants, and camping, as well as 34 sculptures and the El Rosedal Rose Garden, it is easy to see why the park has become a must-see attraction for visitors and locals alike.

2. Grape Harvest Festival

Mendoza’s largest festival begins in January, with the crux of the festival beginning on the first Saturday of March and continuing until the beginning of April. Held in celebration of the winemaking industry, the event climax is a performance by hundreds of dancers, a large firework display, and the crowning of the Reina Nacional de la Vendimia.

3. Plaza Espana

Plaza Espana, known for its beautiful colored tiles, is considered a restful, serene place to visit. Situated amongst gardens and fountains, this is your tranquil getaway, especially when there is a charming Artisan’s Fair with locals selling their handcrafts.

4. Historical center

If you are looking for a diversion from all that outdoor activity and wine drinking, the historical center provides plenty of sights and museums, including the Museo del Area Fundacional on Pedro del Castillo Square and the Museo Nacional del Vino, perfect for learning more about the wine culture. Just outside of Mendoza is the Casa de Fader, an 1890 mansion once home to artist Fernando Fader that is now an exhibit of his artwork.

5. Uspallata

To soak up even more of your breathtaking surroundings, head to Uspallata, a village situated in the Andes region heading towards Santiago in Chile. While this is a place to relax and unwind, it is also of historical and cultural significance as the site where in 1817 José de San Martín sent his army to fight the Spanish royalists in Chile.

6. Museo Fundacional

This is the perfect museum for buffing up on the history of Mendoza and Argentina. Trace back through the city’s timeline, and check out displays of the original city remnants, prior to the majorly destructive earthquake of 1861. Admission is 27 ARS (2 USD) and it’s open daily from 8am-8pm, but it opens at 2pm on Sundays. It’s closed on Monday.

7. Peatonal Sarmiento

Known commonly as ‘the pedestrian zone’, this area offers an escape from the congestion of the city. Open only to those traveling on foot, this is a great place to do some shopping, check out street performers and eclectic street vendors, or just grab a coffee.

8. River rafting

For some of the best rafting in Argentina, head down the Mendoza River. Typically beginning at Porrerillos, this is an all-day activity. For those that are more adventurous, consider going on a full moon trip. The options are endless—check out a variety of adventure companies until you find the right fit!

9. Villavicencio

Surrounded by beautiful parks, gardens, and various walking trails, this hot spring is an ideal get away. Beyond the mineral-rich waters lies beautiful scenery, ‘Darwin’s Petrified Forest’, Los Caracoles, and ancient Inca rock paintings.

10. Paragliding

There are many travel companies that offer paragliding tours from the base of the Andes Mountains over the wineries. Expect to pay bout 550 ARS (36 USD) per person.

11. San Rafael and Canon del Atuel

Just over three hours by bus from the city of Mendoza, San Rafael is a central hub for just about any outdoor activity you can think of. From hiking to kayaking to paragliding, you’ll find something exciting to do with a stunning backdrop. My biggest recommendation is to head to Canon del Atuel, just outside of San Rafael. This breathtaking canyon boasts unique plant life, lakes and rivers, and natural sculptures along with stunning views. For cheap, you can take the public bus to Valle Grande and it’ll take you through the sights. Even better is packing a lunch and having a picnic (also be sure to bring lots of water).