Uco Valley is one of the most sought-after destinations for travelers seeking an authentic wine tourism experience, surrounded by high-altitude vineyards, cutting-edge architecture, and refined regional cuisine. If you’ve already decided to visit, you’re probably evaluating how to get there, how long it will take, and which mode of transportation best suits your travel style. This guide provides all the key information you need to take that next step confidently.
Where is Uco Valley and why visit
Located south of Mendoza City, Uco Valley spans the departments of Tupungato, Tunuyán, and San Carlos. This pre-Andean valley offers breathtaking views, where altitude, alluvial soils, and a dry climate create the ideal conditions for high-end wines. The wineries here stand out not only for their terroir but also for their holistic offering: guided tours, tastings, local gastronomy, art, and outdoor activities like horseback riding, trekking, or countryside experiences.
To explore the full range of experiences this region has to offer, we recommend reading our Complete Guide to Uco Valley Experiences.
Distance and travel time from Mendoza to Uco Valley
The distance between Mendoza City and the main tourist areas in Uco Valley ranges from 75 to 110 km, depending on your destination. Here’s a comparison table with key planning details:
Distances from Mendoza to Uco Valley
| Destination in Uco Valley | Km from Mendoza | Miles | Estimated drive time | Approx. cost by car (USD) | Main route | Road conditions |
| Tupungato | 75 km | 47 mi | 1h 10min | USD 25 | RP86 or RN40 | Good |
| Tunuyán | 85 km | 53 mi | 1h 30min | USD 30 | RN40 | Good |
| Vistaflores (winery area) | 95 km | 59 mi | 1h 40min | USD 32 | RN40 + rural roads | Good, some gravel sections |
| San Carlos | 110 km | 68 mi | 2h | USD 35 | RN40 | Good |
| Manzano Histórico | 105 km | 65 mi | 1h 50min | USD 33 | RN40 + RP94 | Paved up to entrance |
| Wine Route (RP89) | 100 km | 62 mi | 1h 45min | USD 30 | RN40 + RP89 | Scenic, well maintained |
Driving to Uco Valley: Freedom, views, and convenience
Driving to Uco Valley gives you full control over your schedule, the chance to stop for photos, and the freedom to explore less-visited areas. Route RP89, known as the Wine Route, offers one of the most scenic drives in Mendoza, connecting iconic wineries with panoramic mountain views. From Mendoza City, take RN40 to Tunuyán or Tupungato, then continue on provincial roads to reach rural and wine-producing areas.
Check road conditions if you’re traveling in winter or after rain. Bring water, an offline GPS, and fill up your tank in Mendoza or at known stations in the valley, as services can be limited in remote areas. Avoid night driving, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the roads.
Rental car: Flexibility with autonomy
Renting a car in Mendoza is a convenient option for travelers wanting to explore Uco Valley independently, switch accommodations, or build a custom winery itinerary. As of 2025, rental prices start at USD 60 per day for a compact car with basic insurance.
It’s best to book early during high season and confirm whether the vehicle can handle gravel roads—many wineries are located along unpaved stretches. Make sure it includes GPS or bring your own. This option suits confident drivers who enjoy managing their own pace and route.
Private driver transfers: The safest and most relaxed experience
Hiring a private driver is ideal if you’d rather avoid driving and enjoy the journey—landscapes, wine, and stories included. Many services feature a local guide who provides insight into the wineries, grape varieties, and regional culture.
If you’re planning a day of tastings, this option is by far the most convenient and safe. You can book curated full-day wine tours like our Uco Valley Premium Wine Tour or even a Uco Valley Semi-Private Wine Tour, where the driving, timing, and winery appointments are handled for you.
Public transportation: Bus from Mendoza to Uco Valley
Intercity buses depart from Mendoza’s main terminal to the towns of Tupungato, Tunuyán, and San Carlos. This is the most budget-friendly option (USD 5 to 8 per ride) and works well if you’re staying in town centers and don’t plan to move around too much.
However, there are limitations: sparse schedules, fixed stops (not near most wineries), and little flexibility. It’s not suitable for winery-focused itineraries or time-sensitive reservations. Recommended only for travelers with tight budgets and detailed planning.
Bicycle: For experienced cyclists only
Cycling is a scenic and immersive way to explore Uco Valley—once you’re already there. While biking from Mendoza City is uncommon (due to distance and elevation), many travelers rent bikes in Tunuyán or Tupungato and follow short winery circuits.
Avoid riding during peak heat hours, always wear a helmet, bring water, and check in advance whether the routes are bike-friendly. The best areas for cycling include RP89 and the backroads between Vistaflores and Los Árboles. Ideal for fit travelers seeking a deeper connection to the landscape.
4-day itinerary in Uco Valley: Wineries, distances, and local flavors
This itinerary is designed for those staying in Uco Valley and looking to enjoy the region without rushing, visiting iconic wineries, and participating in a hands-on gastronomic experience. Distances are based on departures from Tunuyán, a strategic base for exploring the area.
Day 1 – Arrival and relaxation
Check-in at a boutique hotel or rural lodge in Tunuyán. Free afternoon to unwind, explore the surroundings, or enjoy the spa. Dinner recommendations include farm-to-table restaurants like Finca La Azul or Casa de Uco.
Day 2 – Winery tour: Masi + Finca Adelma + Domaine Bousquet
All three wineries are within 15 km of each other, allowing for a smooth and efficient day. Masi showcases Italian heritage and bold architecture. Finca Adelma offers a cozy, terroir-driven visit with personal attention. Domaine Bousquet, a pioneer in organic winemaking, features a gourmet lunch with wine pairings and mountain views.
Day 3 – Cooking class at Andeluna and free afternoon
Located just 35 minutes from Tunuyán, Andeluna blends high-altitude wines with a participatory culinary experience: a hands-on class led by the winery’s chef using seasonal Mendoza ingredients. After the class, lunch is served with premium wine selections. The rest of the day is free to rest or take a walk near Los Árboles.
Day 4 – Optional excursion or departure
Depending on your departure time, you can visit the historic Manzano Monument or opt for an outdoor activity such as horseback riding or a 4×4 tour in the area. On the return to Mendoza, consider stopping at a winery along the way.
You can find this full itinerary in our 4-Day Uco Valley Wine & Cooking Experience.
Planning your trip: Choose wisely, enjoy deeply
Getting to Uco Valley is easy—the real question is how you want to experience it. Knowing the distances, routes, and transportation options helps you make smarter decisions and focus on what matters most: a high-quality trip without stress and at your own pace.
Uco Valley is not just about going from one winery to the next. It’s about savoring each part of the journey: the changing light on the vineyards, the small towns that keep their rural charm, the stories behind each bottle of wine, and the conversations that unfold around a shared table. Whatever way you choose to travel, make sure it lets you be fully present for the experience—because in Uco Valley, the road is part of the destination.
