At the foot of the Andes, Mendoza is a dynamic, attractive city surrounded by vineyards and a region known as the land of sun and good wine. Mendoza was completely destroyed by an earthquake and fire in 1861 so the city today is modern with low buildings and wide avenues with many trees, parks and plazas. The main industry in the Mendoza area is wine making. Another important industry is olive oil production. It is the starting point for climbers heading up to Aconcagua, the highest mountain in the Western Hemisphere, or for other mountaineering, hiking, horseback riding and rafting activities. In the winter, skiers come to Mendoza for the city’s easy access to the Andes. From Mendoza you can take one of South America’s great road journeys to Santiago in Chile, along this route there is a good view of Aconcagua.
On arrival, transfer from the airport to your hotel. Enjoy a scheduled tour of the city.
A full-day tour to the wineries of Luján de Cuyo and Maipú to the south of Mendoza. These two areas form part of a traditional wine-producing region known as the "prime zone" of the Argentine wines. Luján is renowned for its Malbec grapes whilst Maipú produces high quality Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvingon Blanc and Syrah. Tastings will take place at several vineyards. Enjoy lunch at a typical local restaurant.
Today’s tour will take you to the Uco Valley vineyards centered around the town of Tupungato. The difference in day and night temperatures at this altitude combined with lots of sunlight, make this valley ideal for developing well balanced red wine flavours. Red wine grapes are mainly Malbec, with the white wine grapes being predominantly Chardonnay. Take in the views of surrounding snow-capped peaks and after lunch in a local restaurant (payable locally) return to Mendoza.
Transfer to Mendoza airport for outbound flight.
Full and half day tours available from Mendoza.
A half day tour of one of the prettiest cities in Argentina, winding through the old and the modern city and residential neighbourhoods.
Drive out towards Maipú and Luján, main wine centres, where there will be a chance to visit the vineyards and wineries of the area and taste some of the delicious wines.
A full day tour heading out along the Panamerican Highway towards Cacheuta, Potrerillos and Uspallata to the heart of the Andes mountain range, climbing to 4,200 metres above sea level with an opportunity to visit the Cristo Redentor.