Travel to Argentina: Mendoza

Why travel to Mendoza

The capital city of the western province of the same name, Mendoza is a beautiful city resting on the foothills of the Andes. It sits underneath the highest peak in the western hemisphere, the Aconcagua mount, which stands at a staggering 22,835 feet (6,960 meters). Argentina’s fourth largest city is a bustling and energetic metropolis that basks daily in a perpetually warm and sunny climate, and is surrounded by lush valleys covered with beautiful vineyards and orchards.

Mendoza was almost entirely destroyed by fires and earthquakes in the 19th century and was rebuilt as a modern city, with low buildings and large avenues. Despite its size, Mendoza’s atmosphere feels similar to a peaceful small town, though this takes nothing away from its cosmopolitanism.

The avenues, parks, and plazas of Mendoza are lined with trees and the surrounding suburbs overflow with gardens and orchards making this one of Argentina’s most pleasant and attractive cities. It also boasts some of the finest wine to be found in the world, understandably a key attraction for visitors and travelers in the region who flock here to enjoy Mendoza wine tours and learn the secrets of the art of wine-making.

What to do in Mendoza

City Tour. Mendoza’s surprisingly tranquil neighborhoods are a comfortable retreat for those looking to explore beyond the country’s capital. Take a tour of Mendoza’s verdant parks and plazas which are ideal for walking, relaxing, and soaking up the atmosphere. The city’s tree-lined main square, Plaza Independencia, is teeming with life and stunning historic buildings. A beautiful collection of museums specializing in art, natural history, and regional history can be found in town, meaning there is always something going on to entertain locals and visitors.

Mendoza Wine Tours. Mendoza’s biggest appeal is undoubtedly its vast and fruitful vineyards. The “wine capital” of Argentina produces around 70% of the country’s wines. The dry and sunny climate makes a perfect environment to produce excellent red wines (with Malbec varieties being the most appreciated). The wines produced here rank among the best in the international wine community. Professional sommeliers and wine enthusiasts alike will revel in the chance to live and breathe the Mendoza wine country experience.

Hiking Tours. The countryside of Mendoza, in addition to its fertile lands, is also known as a hiker´s paradise as it is surrounded by stunning landscapes dominated by the imposing Andean range. The best way to appreciate the surrounding nature is by hiking to the summit of Cerro Negro at 6,800 feet for an incredible view of the Andes, the Tupungato Volcano, and the city of Mendoza.

Skiing. Some 150 miles away from Mendoza is the prestigious Las Leñas Resort, one of South America´s best known ski destinations. The resort boasts 40 miles of skiing terrain with 27 slopes of all levels in a spectacular setting.

When to visit Mendoza

The weather in Mendoza is most pleasant in the summer and autumn months, from November to March/April, permitting countless outdoor activities, including hiking, trekking, or horseback riding. Between February and April, which happens to be harvesting season, is without a doubt the best time to visit the beautiful Mendoza region. The famous Vendimia Wine Festival occurs every year in March and marks the harvest with profuse parades, music, and dancing. Just make sure you book ahead, as it gets quite crowded this time of year. The countryside of Mendoza is also spectacular in the fall season (April-May) with trees and leaves taking on myriad colors. If you´re more interested in hitting the slopes of Las Leñas, the ski season lasts June through October.

Travel Testimonials

We had a fantastic time, everything went well with our tours and pick-ups. Argentina For Less was very efficient and very informative. We had a great time in Salta and Mendoza as well as Buenos Aires. The Tour to the Clouds and Cafayate were outstanding. The quote that comes to mind is "Life is not measured by the number of breaths you take but by the moments that take your breath away" - Hilary Cooper. That was certainly the case in the mountains. Carmen was excellent in getting us through the airport in Buenos Aires as the domestic flights were leaving from the International Airport and it was very congested. Our guides Stephen (Cafayate) and Mira (Uruguay) were excellent. The trip was great and we very much enjoyed our experience with Latin America For Less.

Barry and Marilyn Langille, Canada, traveled to Mendoza in November 2010

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We did a 5-day Mendoza Tour through Argentina For Less. We have done many tours in different parts of the world and this was the best tour experience of all. We had a private tour guide who was extremely knowledgeable about Argentina, and Mendoza in particular. The first day we spent relaxing in Mendoza. Our hotel had a wonderful spa service, which was great after a long flight. The second day we were taken to three wineries in Mendoza. Our tour guide picked us up at the hotel in a private car. This personal service was like VIP treatment. At each winery, we were given an in-depth tour of the wine making process. We spent the night at a beautiful winery with friendly staff and a 5-star quality restaurant. The third day we went to three more wineries, ranging from small to large production. The fourth day was a trip up into the Andes Mountain Range. Although the road trip took 3 hours, it was completely worth it. The view and scenery was absolutely gorgeous. We were able to see Mount Aconcagua, the tallest mountain in all the Americas. The fifth day was a city tour of Mendoza. The overall experience was great! This tour is perfect for anyone, especially for wine lovers. I will definitely use Argentina For Less the next time I am in South America for vacation.

Brier Miron, USA, traveled to Mendoza in July 2008

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Mendoza Hotels

Hotel Park Hyatt Mendoza 5*

Chile 1124, Mendoza

The Park Hyatt Mendoza is the epitome of luxury and style, perfect to enhance your Mendoza vacation. With high speed internet access, dual phone lines, cable/satellite TV, safe-deposit boxes, mini-bar, 24 hour room service, and a 24 hour concierge service, this hotel strives to and successfully accommodates the needs of any traveler. Additional guest services include a two story casino, a fully equipped spa and gymnasium, an outdoor pool, a garden, and a sun deck, as well as a range of outdoor activities including rafting, trekking, sport fishing, mountain biking, horseback riding, rock climbing, and snow skiing.

Hotel Park Hyatt Mendoza Photos »

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Huentala Boutique Hotel 4*

Primitivo de la Reta P. 1007, Mendoza

The four star boutique Huentala is ideally located in the heart of Mendoza, only a short walk from the central square, Plaza Independencia, and from all the city centers fine restaurants and bars. The hotel recently underwent a complete redesign with a beautiful transformation of the architecture, rooms and decoration. It features 44 classic rooms, 20 suites with full lounge facilities and 1 presidential suite. There are also interconnected rooms for families if requested. The hotel offers a number of premium comforts for guests including free wireless, room service, a Jaccuzzi, swimming pool and fitness center and even pillow menu to help you get a full night's sleep. For people with families there are baby sitter facilities.

Huentala Boutique Hotel Photos »

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Hotel Argentino 3*

Espejo 455, Mendoza

Opened in the spring of 2004, the Hotel Argentino offers a refreshing combination of elegance and affordability. Overlooking the Plaza de la Independencia, the hotel features a pleasant and delicious restaurant, a cozy bar, an outdoor pool, laundry service, room service, and massage services. The Los Girasoles Bistro has a tasty breakfast, lunch, dinner, and afternoon tea. The hotel's 46 rooms all include mini fridge, safe deposit boxes, cable TV, sommier beds, wireless internet, and direct access to national and international calls. The excellent amenities and friendly service will flawlessly compliment your exciting Mendoza tours and adventures.

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