Things To Do
in Malargüe
Malargüe is a windswept mountain town in southern Mendoza Province, framed by the Andes and vast high desert. It serves as a gateway to dramatic canyons, glaciers, and stargazing skies. The town's economy blends ranching, farming, and growing outdoor tourism that draws nature lovers year-round.
Visitors come for rugged scenery, accessible winter sports, and a warm Patagonian welcome.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by wandering through the charming streets of Malargüe, where you'll find local artisans selling handmade crafts and traditional souvenirs. Visit the Malargüe Historical Museum to learn about the rich history and culture of this region. Don’t forget to grab a traditional Argentine breakfast at a local café, enjoying medialunas and mate.
In the afternoon, head to the nearby Reserva Natural Provincial Villa Mercedes to enjoy a leisurely hike through scenic landscapes. Observe the local wildlife and take in the stunning views of the Andes mountains surrounding the area. Alternatively, you can relax at one of the local parks, enjoying a picnic with fresh local produce.
As the sun sets, enjoy a traditional Argentine dinner at a local parrilla (steakhouse), savoring some of the best grilled meats in the region. After your meal, stroll through the town to appreciate the starry night sky, free from city light pollution. Engage with locals at a nearby bar where you can listen to live music and perhaps even join in on an impromptu dance.
Take an early drive to the Cacheuta Thermal Springs to enjoy a rejuvenating morning in the natural hot springs. After soaking in the minerals-rich waters, explore the beautiful gardens surrounding the springs, filled with vibrant flowers and unique rock formations. A massage or spa treatment is a perfect way to enhance your relaxation after your morning soak.
In the afternoon, indulge in a delicious lunch at the spa's restaurant, featuring fresh local ingredients. Afterward, hike one of the nearby trails for breathtaking views of the Andes and the Mendoza River. Make sure to take plenty of photos to capture the stunning scenery.
Return to Malargüe in the evening where you can enjoy a quiet dinner in town, sampling traditional Argentine pizza or empanadas. Attend a local cultural event or artisan fair if available, to immerse yourself in the local arts scene. As you wind down, find a cozy spot to reflect on the day’s adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $2-4 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (within town) | $4-8 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $60-120 |
| 🧺Groceries (basic weekly essentials) | $40-90 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Paisajes espectaculares y cielos nocturnos increíbles
- Acceso a deportes de montaña y aventuras al aire libre
- Autenticidad patagónica y hospitalidad local
- Distancia desde grandes ciudades y turismo estacional limitado
- Opciones de alojamiento pueden ser limitadas fuera de temporada alta
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "¿Puede recomendar un restaurante vegetariano?" - Can you recommend a vegetarian restaurant?
Places to Visit in Malargüe
Visit one of these nice places.
A dramatic cave near Malargüe with striking stalactites and stalagmites; a fascinating subject for landscape and macro shots.
A spectacular canyon carved by the Atuel River; wide vistas, dramatic rock walls, and river reflections at viewpoints.
Snow-capped peaks in winter and expansive alpine scenery in summer; ideal for expansive landscape photography.
Cosmic ray observatory with clear night skies; excellent for astrophotography and star trails when weather allows.
Food in Malargüe
Malargüe Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Traditional Argentine barbecue with beef cuts slow-grilled over embers; widely available at parrillas around town.
Must-Try!
Small pastries stuffed with meat or cheese and onions; a common snack in markets and bakeries.
Lamb roasted slowly, a regional specialty often served in rural estancias and special gatherings.
Corn and cheese mixture wrapped in corn husk and steamed; a home-style staple found in local eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Small central market with fresh produce, cheeses, meats, pastries, and quick bites.
Seasonal street vendors offering empanadas, choripán, and other hot snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite handshake is common; address adults with ustedes in formal situations and maintain friendly, respectful conversation.
Lunch is typically around 1–2 pm and dinner around 8–10 pm; plan activities accordingly.
Be courteous in public spaces, avoid loud conversations late at night, and respect local customs in rural areas and during community events.
Safety
Tipping in Malargüe
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip around 10% is customary if service is not included. Small tips for taxi drivers and tour guides are appreciated but not obligatory.
Cash is still commonly used; credit and debit cards are accepted in many venues, especially in towns and larger establishments. ATMs are available in Malargüe; carry some cash for smaller merchants and rural trips.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
December to February brings dry, sunny days with long daylight hours. Great for canyon hikes, wildlife viewing, and stargazing at night; carry sunscreen and plenty of water.
March to May offers cooler temperatures and thinner crowds. Moderate hiking conditions and colorful landscapes; layers are essential.
June to August brings cold days with possible snow in higher elevations. Las Leñas ski resort operates; plan for road conditions and warm clothing.
September to November can be windy with variable weather. Wildflowers begin to appear and trails reopen; check forecast and be flexible.
Malargüe at Night
Hiking in Malargüe
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy to moderate trails along the canyon with dramatic rock formations and viewpoints.
Seasonal high-altitude treks through pine forests and alpine meadows near the famed ski area.
Guided hikes around the cave network that reveal karst landscapes and geological features.
Airports
How to reach Malargüe by plane.
Pequeño aeropuerto regional con vuelos domésticos y servicios limitados; útil para acercamientos rápidos.
Major gateway to the region with connections to Buenos Aires and international destinations; about 300 km away.
Regional airport offering connections to Buenos Aires and nearby towns; farther than Mendoza but useful for certain itineraries.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly Argentine families involved in agriculture, ranching, and growing tourism; strong sense of regional pride.
Indigenous presence in some areas; cultural influences can be observed in crafts and regional events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Las Leñas is a renowned nearby resort offering extensive runs and diverse terrain.
Rock and high-altitude routes across the Andean foothills and canyons.
Atuel River provides opportunities for white-water adventures depending on water levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Malargüe.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options like empanadas de verdura, salads, and pasta are usually available; ask for grilled vegetables or bean dishes.
Many places can accommodate gluten-free meals; opt for grilled meats, vegetables, and salads; always confirm ingredients when dining.
Vegan options are more limited; look for salads, legumes, and vegetable-forward dishes; communicate dietary needs clearly.