Argentina

Buenos Aires to Mendoza

Pampas to Andes wine country

Distance

1,050 km (650 miles)

Duration

12-13 hours direct, 2-3 days recommended

Best Time

March to May (harvest season)

Route

Buenos AiresMendoza

About This Drive

The drive from Buenos Aires to Mendoza crosses the vast Argentine Pampas before arriving in the shadow of the Andes. Your destination is Argentina's premier wine region, where Malbec vineyards thrive under sunny skies with snow-capped peaks as a backdrop.

Stops Along the Way

1

The Pampas

300 km from start

Endless grasslands with estancias and gauchos

2

San Luis

700 km from start

Sierras with canyons and adventure activities

3

Potrerillos

1,000 km from start

Andean foothills with rafting and hiking

4

Luján de Cuyo

1,030 km from start

Heart of Argentina's Malbec wine region

5

Aconcagua View

1,100 km from start

Views of the Americas' highest peak

Driving Tips

  • 1

    The Pampas stretch is long and monotonous—download entertainment

  • 2

    Ruta 7 is well-maintained but has tolls

  • 3

    Visit Mendoza during vendimia (harvest) for wine festivals

  • 4

    Book winery tours in advance for the best experiences

  • 5

    Drive to the Chilean border at Puente del Inca for Aconcagua views

Alternate Routes

  • Ruta 7 direct route

  • Via Córdoba northern scenic route