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How To Reach Mendoza And What To Do There

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How To Reach Mendoza And What To Do There

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Aparna Rastogi

07 Jun 2024

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How To Reach Mendoza And What To Do There

Have you watched Seven Years in Tibet and gotten amazed by the mountainous landscape which forms the backdrop of the movie? If yes, then you will love the Andes because most part of the movie was shot in Mendoza – the wine town of Argentina.

To climb Aconcagua, you first meet Mendoza. Now, Mendoza isn’t your typical town; it's nestled snugly in the arms of the Andes, like a cat curled up in its favorite corner. The sun there is bright, keeping the town warm and the Andes peering from behind each building keep the smell of adventure in the air, standing as an open invitation for anyone who is willing.

As you wander through the streets, the empty roads, small flower stalls on pathways and food joints on the side all exude a laidback small-town vibe by day which all springs to life come evening. The plaza is the heart of the town built over cobbled stones – it bustles with activity in the evenings late into the night. As the sun goes down, the people of Mendoza come out of their homes and gather in the many open pubs at this city center to gossip, play, and trade stories all while the many musicians, mimers and entertainers add colour to the moonlit streets. And oh, the markets! They are a treasure trove of sights and smells that'll make your head spin faster than a spin-top. The artisan’s markets lined inside the many parks of Mendoza feature the many creative pursuits of the people of Mendoza. While the streets are mostly empty making you wonder if the town has been abandoned, you will find the people of Mendoza in the parks and plazas around the town.

Oh! and let's not forget the vineyards. Mendoza is famous for its grapes, and the vineyards stretch out like a patchwork quilt across the countryside. If you are into wines, you have found your heaven!

And the people of Mendoza? Well, they're a friendly bunch, always ready with a smile and a tale to tell. If you ever find yourself in Mendoza, be sure to grab a bottle of wine, find a shady spot under a tree, and watch the world go by. It's a town full of adventure, just waiting for someone like you to come along and join the fun.

How to Reach Mendoza

All your flights to Mendoza will route through the entry point to Argentina – Buenos Aires. Buenos Aires is connected to most major countries.

Buenos Aires to Mendoza:

By Air:

Buenos Aires is around 1000 kms away from Mendoza; the fastest way to travel from one to the other is to fly. Direct flights depart from both Ezeiza International Airport (EZE) and Aeroparque (AEP), Buenos Aires' domestic airport. If you're arriving from an international destination, you will land at Ezeiza, and you can transfer directly to Mendoza from there.

If you have booked a separate flight from Buenos Aires to Mendoza on the same day, remember to check which airport the flight is flying out of. In case it is from the domestic airport, remember to keep enough buffer time between your flights since the International Airport and Domestic Airport are on opposite sides of the city. The travel between the two will take anywhere from one to two hours depending on traffic. You will get cabs or buses to travel between the two airports. Alternatively, you can choose to stay in Buenos Aires for a few days before flying out; it is a beautiful place.

Image by: Neeti Singhal

By Rail:

Mendoza is not connected to other cities through a railway line.

By Road:

If you are not pressed for time, buses are an efficient and a much cheaper mode of transport to get to Mendoza. The journey is between 16-18 hours long but the buses are comfortable. Night buses are your best option as you can get a comfortable sleeper bus. The roads are fairly smooth, so it is not a bumpy ride, you can get a good night’s sleep enroute. You can pre-book your bus online well in advance; in fact, it would make sense to book them along with your flight tickets.

Things to do in Mendoza

1. Wine Connoisseur Much? Put Yourself to the Test

Mendoza, Argentina, is primarily known for its world-class wine production. The region boasts some of the finest vineyards in South America, particularly renowned for its Malbec grapes. The combination of high altitude, sunny days, cool nights, and fertile soil creates the perfect conditions for growing grapes with intense flavor and character.

a. Guided Wine Tasting Tours

You can go on guided tours for Wine Tasting which includes going to multiple vineyards in and near Mendoza all throughout the day. You can either go on a personalized or a group tour. Wine tastings often include sampling a variety of wines paired with local cheeses and delicacies, providing a sensory experience of Mendoza's viticulture.

b. Bike and Wine Tours

You can even do cycling tours to explore the multiple vineyards in the region. It’s called a Wine and Bike Tour. It is a full day tour where you visit as many as 3 different wineries from small family-owned establishments to large commercial ones and also indulge in some warm hospitality and delicious food. It is a perfect combination of soft adventure and culinary indulgence.

If you are not too pumped about a full day excursion, there are shorter bike and wine tours available as well.

c. Unguided Wine Tasting

If you aren’t into group travel or guided tours, you can book your tasting directly with the winery and travel there on your own. That way you can control your time and day as per your convenience and won’t have to feel rushed.

2. Head Outdoors to the Andes

In addition to wine, Mendoza is also famous for its stunning natural beauty. It's situated at the foothills of the Andes Mountains, offering breathtaking scenery and outdoor recreational opportunities such as hiking, mountain biking, and skiing.

a. Hikes and Treks

The Andes Mountains provide a stunning backdrop for outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.

A popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts is Aconcagua Provincial Park, home to Mount Aconcagua, the highest peak in the Americas. While climbing Aconcagua requires technical skills and permits, visitors can still explore the park's trails and enjoy breathtaking views of the mountains.

Image by: Neeti Singhal

b. Skiing and Snowboarding

During the winter months (June to September), Mendoza's nearby ski resorts, such as Las Leñas, attract snow sports enthusiasts from around the world.

These resorts offer a range of slopes for all skill levels, as well as amenities such as ski schools, equipment rentals, and après-ski activities.

c. Other Adventure Activities

For adrenaline junkies, Mendoza offers a variety of adventure sports such as white-water rafting, zip-lining, and paragliding.

The Mendoza River is a popular destination for rafting excursions, featuring thrilling rapids and scenic landscapes.

3. Parks and Gardens for Those Who Like Sunny Days

The town is peppered with parks and gardens, you will find one at the turn of every street. Some of these are so massive and elegant, they have come to become tourist attractions.

a. Parque General San Martín:

San Martín, who was a great military commander, is regarded as a national hero of Argentina, Chile, and Peru. He was one of the Liberators of Spanish South America. This expansive urban park, named after the hero, is one of the largest in Argentina, covering over 400 hectares.

Parque General San Martín features lush green spaces, manicured gardens, and tree-lined avenues.

Visitors can enjoy recreational activities such as walking, jogging, cycling, and picnicking.

Image by: Neeti Singhal

The park also includes attractions such as the Cerro de la Gloria monument, the Zoological and Botanical Garden, and the Lake of the Ducks. There are fountains with elaborate sculptors where you will find people of all ages splashing around in the hot evenings of the town. Artisans’ markets are set up in the evenings adding yet another flavour to the park. There are eateries inside the park so you don’t have to worry about rushing out each time you feel like a snack.

b. Plaza Independencia:

Plaza Independencia is the main square in downtown Mendoza and serves as a hub for social gatherings and events.

The plaza features beautiful gardens, fountains, sculptures, and shaded seating areas.

It is surrounded by historic buildings, shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to relax and people-watch.

c. Parque Provincial Aconcagua:

Located in the Andes foothills, Parque Provincial Aconcagua is a protected natural area surrounding Mount Aconcagua, the highest peak in the Americas.

The park offers stunning mountain scenery, hiking trails of varying difficulty levels, and opportunities for wildlife observation.

Visitors can explore attractions such as Laguna Horcones, a picturesque glacial lake, and the Aconcagua Visitor Center, which provides information about the park and its ecosystems.

d. Cerro de la Gloria:

Cerro de la Gloria is a hill within Parque General San Martín that features a monument commemorating the Army of the Andes and its role in Argentina's struggle for independence.

The monument, designed by sculptor Uruguayan Juan Manuel Ferrari, depicts General José de San Martín and his troops.

Visitors can climb to the top of Cerro de la Gloria for panoramic views of Mendoza and the surrounding landscape.

Image by: Neeti Singhal

e. Parque Cívico:

Parque Cívico is a public park located near Plaza Independencia and the Mendoza Civic Center.

The park features landscaped gardens, walking paths, and recreational facilities.

It is a popular spot for outdoor exercise, relaxation, and cultural events, including concerts and festivals.

4. Hit it Off with The Locals

Mendoza is celebrated for its rich cultural heritage, including traditional Argentine cuisine, vibrant festivals, and historical landmarks.

a. Cultural Heritage

Mendoza's cultural heritage is a blend of indigenous influences, Spanish colonial history, and immigrant traditions. The city itself was founded by Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century. Indigenous peoples, such as the Huarpes, originally inhabited the region and have left their mark on Mendoza's culture through art, language, and customs.

Immigrants from Italy and other European countries arrived in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, contributing to the city's diverse cultural landscape. You will get glimpses of Mendoza's rich history and cultural heritage on your visit to landmarks such as Plaza Independencia, Cerro de la Gloria, and the Museo Fundacional.

Image by: Neeti Singhal

You will also enjoy taking a leisurely stroll through Mendoza's charming streets, adorned with colonial architecture, artisan markets, and sidewalk cafes.

b. Festivals

Mendoza hosts several festivals throughout the year, celebrating everything from wine to folk music.

The Fiesta Nacional de la Vendimia (National Grape Harvest Festival) is one of the most famous festivals in Mendoza. It takes place annually in March and celebrates the grape harvest with parades, music, dance, and the crowning of the "Reina Nacional de la Vendimia" (National Grape Harvest Queen).

The Fiesta Nacional de la Tradición (National Tradition Festival) honors Argentine folklore and gaucho culture with traditional music, dance performances, and horseback riding competitions.

c. Thermal Spas & Hot Springs

Mendoza is home to several thermal spas and hot springs, where visitors can relax and unwind in natural mineral-rich pools.

The Termas Cacheuta Spa, located in the Andes foothills, is one of the most popular thermal complexes in the region, offering a range of pools, saunas, and spa treatments.

5. Culinary Experiences

Argentine cuisine, including traditional dishes like empanadas and asado, is an integral part of Mendoza's culinary scene. Cooking classes and food tours are available for visitors to learn about Argentine cuisine and wine pairing.

Image by: Neeti Singhal

You may want to indulge in Mendoza's culinary delights by dining at traditional Argentine restaurants, known as parrillas, and sampling local specialties such as empanadas and asado.

You can even participate in cooking classes or food tours to learn about Argentine cuisine and wine pairing from local experts.

Overall, Mendoza's reputation as a wine-producing region, coupled with its picturesque landscapes and cultural attractions, makes it a popular destination for travelers seeking a taste of Argentina's finest offerings. You must spare a day or three here if you are in the area.

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