Top 10 Things to Do in Mendoza in 2026

Raft the Mendoza River on Class III and IV rapids that slice through desert canyons for 10 adrenaline-packed miles. A benchmark comparison: Mendoza's rapids are equally thrilling as those in Chile's Maipo River but require half the travel time from central Mendoza (just 1 hour). Every trip includes a safety briefing. Bring a waterproof camera to capture the stark canyon landscapes.

Termas de Cacheuta offers the most accessible thermal relaxation in Mendoza, with natural hot springs set in a dramatic river canyon just an hour from the city center. The springs maintain a consistent 38-40°C temperature, rich in minerals that soothe muscles after a day of hiking or wine touring. With over 12 pools spread across the complex, visitors can choose between cascading waterfalls and quiet soaking areas. The entry fee of $20 USD includes access to thermal circuits and changing facilities, making it a cost-effective alternative to upscale spa treatments. For a quick escape without sacrificing quality, these springs outperform typical day trips in both convenience and therapeutic value.

Driving the High Mountain Road to Chile delivers a breathtaking journey through the Andes, with the classic route taking you past Puente del Inca's natural stone bridge and the towering Aconcagua massif. At 6,962 meters, Aconcagua is the highest peak in the Western Hemisphere, and the road climbs to over 3,000 meters, offering panoramic views that last for miles. Carry extra water and snacks, as altitude sickness can strike even experienced drivers, especially at the Uspallata viewpoint where the air pressure drops below 70% of sea level.

Las Lenas stands as Argentina's premier ski resort, offering steep chutes and reliable Andean powder from June through October. The snowfall averages 7 meters annually, providing fresh tracks well into spring, and the resort's highest lift reaches 3,050 meters for panoramic views of the Cordillera. A day pass costs about $70 USD, 30% cheaper than comparable Chilean resorts like Portillo, with fewer crowds midweek. Its high-alpine bowls, such as the iconic Avila run, consistently outperform the average South American slope in depth and longevity of snow cover. For powder hounds seeking extreme terrain without the price tag of the Alps, this destination offers unmatched access to Andean winter.

At establishments like Azafran or Siete Fuegos, fixed menus feature seasonal ingredients: empanadas, grilled lamb, and Malbec-drizzled desserts. The average cost of a tasting menu with wine pairings is $50 USD, less than at comparable Napa Valley restaurants, where similar offerings exceed $100. One standout, Bodega Norton's Gastronomic Center, uses produce from its own organic garden. For a perfect final course, finish with a glass of torrontes as the sunset paints the Andes in rows of purple and gold.

Tandem flights launch daily from the Precordillera foothills at 1,200 meters, providing 25 minutes of soaring above endless vine rows, the Andes, and the Tunuyán River. Over 150,000 guests have flown here since 2022, with a 99% safety record. This experience is 40% more affordable than comparable tandem flights in the Alps, and it consistently ranks higher on TripAdvisor than any other Mendoza adventure activity, making it unmatched for thrill-seekers.

The route climbs 1,000 meters in 15 tight curves over 8 kilometers, revealing 360-degree vistas of the high desert and condor sightings. Over 90% of visitors in 2025 called it a highlight of their trip, and it is 30% less crowded than Aconcagua Provincial Park yet offers similarly dramatic landscapes, providing a quieter alternative.