Wining and dining in Mendoza, Argentina

3 hours. Yes 3 hours. 3 freaking hours at the border crossing from Chile to Mendoza in Argentina. Welcome to summer! Trust me to cross borders a few days after New Years.

It may not have been as green and vibrant as the vineyards I’m used to, but Mendoza sure does have its fair share of incredible red wine. I didn’t even think I liked red wine, but turns out it is quite tasty!

I spent one day in Mendoza venturing out to the Andes in the late afternoon. It was here that I rode the most placid horse in the world and even galloped through the Andes! Granted helmets were not supplied so it was a little nerve wracking at times, but the horses knew exactly what they were doing. The views were really spectacular, unfortunately my photos won’t do it justice.

After 3 hours of horse riding, the sun began to set and we trotted down back to the ranch for a traditional Gaucho BBQ. It was incredibly tasty, but I am learning that Chile and Argentina love their salt (and steak). I’ve taken people’s advice and made sure to eat steak almost everyday as I know food won’t be as food the further north I travel.

Next day, with a sore backside and legs from the horse riding, I joined a group of people from the hostel on a bike ride around the wineries in Mendoza. Less be said, it was sore and I was slow, but the wine was good. It possibly wasn’t the most scenic area to taste wines in Mendoza, but still a fun day out.