Things To Do
in Las Heras
Las Heras is a Mendoza Province town located just west of the city of Mendoza, set against the backdrop of the Andes. It blends agricultural roots with growing wine and olive tourism, producing a calm, rural atmosphere within easy reach of urban facilities. The landscape features wide valleys of vineyards and olive groves, dotted with low-rise buildings and scenic hill views.
Visitors come for easy hikes, local cuisine, and a quieter Mendoza experience away from the larger city buzz.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, indulging in fresh pastries and Argentine coffee. Afterward, stroll through the charming streets of Las Heras, marveling at the colonial architecture and vibrant murals depicting the region's history. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the plaza, where locals gather and you can soak in the morning ambiance.
Continue your exploration with a visit to the Museo Regional, where you'll learn about the indigenous culture and the history of the area. Afterward, enjoy a traditional Argentine lunch at a parrilla, savoring grilled meats and local wines. Spend the afternoon wandering through the artisan market, where you can find handmade crafts and souvenirs from local artisans.
As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant for dinner, enjoying a meal of regional specialties like Patagonian lamb. After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the town, taking in the tranquil atmosphere and perhaps stopping for gelato at a popular ice cream shop. End your day with a nightcap at a cozy bar, chatting with locals and fellow travelers.
Begin your day early with a guided tour to nearby wildlife reserves, where you can spot native species such as guanacos and Andean condors. Enjoy a packed breakfast amidst nature, listening to the sounds of the wild as you watch for animals. Take your time to appreciate the stunning landscapes that surround you in this beautiful part of Patagonia.
After your wildlife spotting, embark on a hike through the scenic trails of the reserve, immersing yourself in the breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the natural surroundings, perhaps near a tranquil stream. Spend the afternoon learning about the local flora and fauna with your guide, adding depth to your outdoor experience.
Return to Las Heras as the day winds down, feeling fulfilled from your adventure. Treat yourself to dinner at a local restaurant, sharing your stories of the day's encounters with fellow diners. Enjoy the warm atmosphere of the town as you relax, perhaps ending the evening with a stroll under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at a cafe | $2-4 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel or guesthouse (per night) | $25-60 |
| 🛍️Groceries for a week | $40-90 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per liter) | $1-1.5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close proximity to Mendoza city with easy access to wineries and restaurants
- Pleasant, rural setting with scenic Andean views and outdoor options
- Smaller nightlife and fewer high-end dining options than the city
- Certain services and amenities are more limited in Las Heras compared with urban centers
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Las Heras
Visit one of these nice places.
A dramatic hillside viewpoint offering sweeping valley views, vineyards below, and the Andes on the horizon—especially magical at sunrise or sunset.
Rows of olive trees bathed in warm light, often with mountains in the distance for serene landscape compositions.
A charming square with local life and nearby foothills that frame easy-to-capture city-nature contrasts.
Food in Las Heras
Las Heras Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Turnover pastries filled with beef, olives, and sometimes hard-boiled egg; best enjoyed fresh at a local parrilla or bakery.
Must-Try!
Hearty corn, bean, and squash stew often enjoyed during cooler months; common at regional eateries and local festivals.
Grilled meats such as ribeye and chorizo, typically served with chimichurri, salads, and crusty bread; perfect with a glass of Malbec.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Small local market offering seasonal produce, cheeses, olives, baked goods, and homemade sweets; best on market days.
Casual vendors along the town streets offering empanadas, choripán, and grilled corn from late morning into the evening.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake is common in formal settings; use polite salutations like Sr./Sra. in unfamiliar situations. Address people with respect, and be courteous in religious or rural areas.
Smart-casual is appropriate in most venues. Avoid loud behavior in public spaces; discussions about politics or local affairs should be approached with tact.
Arrive on time for planned meetings; hosts may offer food and drink generously as a sign of hospitality.
Safety
Tipping in Las Heras
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of around 10% is common if a service charge isn’t included. Tipping hotel staff, guides, and taxi drivers is appreciated but not mandatory.
Cards are widely accepted in urban areas and wineries; cash (Argentine peso) is still commonly used in smaller shops and markets. ATMs are common in Mendoza city and Las Heras town center.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry and hot with long days and abundant sunshine. Hydrate, wear sun protection, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons to avoid peak heat.
Mild and pleasant with turning vineyard colors. Great for wine tastings and scenic drives; nights begin to cool.
Cool to chilly with clear skies; cooler days are ideal for winery tours and museum visits. Pack layers and a warm jacket.
Moderate temperatures and fresh landscapes as wildflowers bloom; a good time for hikes and outdoor markets, though occasional showers can occur.
Las Heras at Night
Hiking in Las Heras
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible foothill trail with panoramic valley views and the surrounding Andes; suitable for a half-day hike.
Nearby mountain range offering a variety of day hikes with dramatic landscapes and alpine scenery.
Scenic ridge routes and vineyard-adjacent trails within a short drive, ideal for photography and easy to moderate hikes.
Airports
How to reach Las Heras by plane.
Aeropuerto Internacional Gobernador Francisco Gabrielli, located near Mendoza city; served by domestic and international flights, with ground transportation to Las Heras available by taxi or car rental.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Argentine nationals with a mix of European heritage; many families involved in agriculture, viticulture, and hospitality.
Tourists drawn by wine and olive tourism, plus seasonal workers in harvest periods and students from the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The dominant sport in the region, with local matches and club activities throughout the year.
Popular in the broader Mendoza region, with equestrian facilities and exhibitions nearby.
Rugby clubs and outdoor recreation such as trail running and mountain biking are common among residents and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Las Heras.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for grilled vegetables, cheese boards, salads, empanadas rellenas de verduras, and pasta or legume dishes. In many places you can request the absence of meat and dairy-free options with advance notice.