Let me tell you a funny story about my recent trip to San Juan, Argentina.
I landed in San Juan excited to explore the area but realized I didn’t do any research on what to actually see and do there!
I wandered around aimlessly for hours before finally asking a local for recommendations.
She gave me a detailed list of the top attractions and activities in the area.
I felt silly for not doing my homework beforehand – but now I’m an expert on the best things to do in San Juan!
If you’re planning a trip to San Juan, Argentina anytime soon, this post is for you.
I’ll share the top 15.5+ things I recommend checking out during your visit.
Let’s dive in!
Top 10+ Things to Do in San Juan – Rated!
San Juan City is located in the western part of Argentina and it is famous for their wines and winemaking livelihood.
As you approach the capital city of Cuyo, you will notice an increasing selection of crop fields full of grapes, olives, and a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables.
Along the highway you will be captivated by its beautiful scenery, especially the mountains. Every kilometer is a spectacle of rocks in their natural formation, tall trees, and well paved roads.
The sight of Rio San Juan shows a diverse landscape, an amazing panoramic view of a desolate desert with a surprising river that flows up to Caucete district which is filled with wineries, hills, valleys, and plantations.
The river passes in its entirety and goes through San Juan’s amazing scenery.
Rank | Why It’s Amazing | |
---|---|---|
Visit the Historic Center of San Juan | 9.5 | Stunning Spanish colonial architecture and lively plazas. |
Go Wine Tasting in Valle de Uco | 9.0 | World-class wineries and incredible Andes views. |
Hike Ischigualasto Provincial Park | 8.5 | Otherworldly moonscapes and rock formations. |
Mountain Bike Down the Andes | 8.0 | Epic trails with stunning scenery. |
Visit Talampaya National Park | 8.5 | Jurassic scenery dotted with petrified fossils. |
Relax at Termas de Talacasto | 9.0 | Tranquil hot springs surrounded by desert beauty. |
Four Wheeling Through Ischigualasto | 7.5 | Adventurous way to see the surreal landscapes. |
Paragliding Over the Andes | 9.5 | Soar high above the majestic mountains. |
Learn How to Make Empanadas | 7.0 | Hands-on cooking classes for a tasty Argentinian treat. |
Nightlife in Chimbas | 8.0 | Lively nighttime scene with bars, clubs, and dancing. |
Horseback Riding Near Jachal | 8.0 | Ride through the Andean foothills on scenic trails. |
Rafting on the San Juan River | 7.5 | Thrilling whitewater rapids through deep canyons. |
Shop at Mercado Artesanal | 7.0 | Large craft market with all kinds of handicrafts and souvenirs. |
Folk Music at Resto Bar Triana Gomero | 8.5 | Delicious food and drinks while listening to talented local musicians. |
Sandboarding in Mendoza | 8.5 | Fun rides down massive sand dunes. |
Observatory Tour | 9.0 | Incredible stargazing through powerful telescopes. |
Valle Fertil | 7.5 | Dramatic semi-desert canyon landscapes. |
Pismanta | 8.0 | Unique hot springs surrounded by Andes peaks. |
San Jose de Jachal Wineries | 8.5 | Relaxed winery visits in a small charming town. |
Best time to Visit San Juan, Argentina?
If you’re trying to decide when to plan your amazing trip to San Juan, Argentina, here’s the lowdown on weather and events during different times of the year to help you pick the ideal time to visit.
Winter in San Juan (June-August) sees daytime highs around 60-70°F and lows dipping into the 30s or 40s°F at night. It’s cooler but still comfortable for sightseeing. Prices also drop and crowds thin out this time of year.
Come in early August for the celebration of the founding of San Juan city. There’s concerts, parades, traditional food – a lively fiesta vibe!
Spring (September-November) is one of the best times with warm sunny days in the 70s and 80s°F and cool evenings perfect for sipping wine outdoors. September is a great month with low humidity before summer heat hits.
Autumn into early winter also coincides with grape harvest season in the vineyards, so you can watch the crush in action.
Summertime (December-February) brings hot temps, often reaching the 90s°F during the day. It cools off after sunset, with nights in the 60s°F. December and January can be unpleasantly humid.
However, summer is prime season for water activities like rafting and relaxing at hot springs and pools to beat the heat. And sunshine galore!
Visit the Historic Center of San Juan
The historic heart of the city is full of beautiful Spanish colonial architecture.
Walk along the cobblestone streets and check out historic landmarks like the San Juan Cathedral and San Juan City Hall.
Make sure to see the Government House, the Casa de Gobierno, which was built in 1862 and contains gorgeous courtyards and salons.
Stop by Plaza 25 de Mayo, the main city square, to people watch, admire the fountain and palm trees, and snap photos of the surrounding colonial buildings.
Visit the San Juan Museum of Art to see an impressive collection of artwork by local and national artists across three centuries.
The Convento Santo Domingo is one of the oldest buildings in San Juan, dating back to 1598, with an intricate baroque facade and tranquil inner cloisters.
Take a guided tour to really understand and appreciate the history and architecture as you walk around.
Wander through Parque de Mayo, a sprawling public park with botanical gardens, walking paths, an artificial lake, and even a small zoo.
Make sure to see it both during the day and lit up at night when it takes on a whole new ambience.
Go Wine Tasting in Valle de Uco
The Valle de Uco region is full of amazing wineries known for Malbecs and other varietals.
Spend a day touring vineyards and tasting flights.
Some of my favorite wineries to visit include Zuccardi, O. Fournier, Andeluna Cellars, Domaine Bousquet, and Piedra Infinita.
Most wineries offer guided tours of their facilities along with tastings – it’s fascinating to learn about their winemaking processes.
The scenic views of the Andes Mountains from the vineyards are also incredible.
Make sure to try both the entry level and premium Reserve Malbecs to experience the range.
Pair your tastings with empanadas, charcuterie boards, or full gourmet meals at many wineries’ restaurants.
If you want to visit several wineries, booking a driver or tour guide for the day is recommended since the distances between can be pretty far.
Some key wine regions within Valle de Uco include Tupungato, Tunuyan, and San Carlos.
September through November is harvest season, so visiting then allows you to see the vineyards buzzing with activity.
Hike Ischigualasto Provincial Park
This park contains amazing landscapes and rock formations.
Go hiking and camping here to experience the natural beauty.
Some highlights include the Valle de la Luna (Valley of the Moon) with its lunar-like landscapes, the Cancha de Bochas rock formations that resemble bowling balls, and the red and green painted mountains.
There are several marked hiking trails ranging from easy 1-hour walks to multi-day treks.
Go early in the morning or later afternoon to avoid the mid-day heat when hiking in the summer.
Carry plenty of water since there are limited water sources in the desert park.
Stop at the museum and visitor center when you first arrive to get oriented with maps and trail information.
Make sure to walk the Garganta del Diablo (Devil’s Throat) trail to see the park’s iconic rock canyon.
Pack a picnic lunch or snacks and have a bite while admiring the surreal scenery around you.
Look for local wildlife like guanacos, rheas, foxes, Lesser Rheas and condors.
Camping at the park allows you to experience both sunset and sunrise, which are stunning.
Mountain Bike Down the Andes
The Andes Mountains provide epic mountain biking trails.
Rent a bike and spend the day riding down scenic trails.
Some top areas around San Juan to mountain bike include Las Leñas, El Durazno, and Valle Fértil.
Las Leñas has over 60 miles of marked trails ranging from gentle and scenic to extreme downhill.
You can ride through forests, meadows, rivers, and valleys with spectacular views.
El Durazno is great for cross country riding across high mountain terrain with lakes and waterfalls.
Valle Fértil has canyon trails that lead to ancient dinosaur fossil sites.
Make sure to only attempt the Black Diamond or Double Black Diamond runs if you have serious mountain biking experience.
Test out the bike before heading out to make sure the fit and brakes feel right.
Carry plenty of water, snacks, a first aid kit, and extra layers since weather can change quickly at high elevations.
Wear a helmet and protective gear like knee/elbow pads for safety on rugged trails.
Book a guided tour if available to benefit from the guide’s knowledge of the area and ideal routes.
Visit Talampaya National Park
This UNESCO World Heritage Site contains cool rock formations and dinosaur fossils.
Great for hiking and photography.
Must-see sights include the bright red rock walls and canyons, 4000 year old rock engravings by indigenous peoples, and petrified tree trunk fossils across the landscape.
There are several circular trails of varying length and difficulty that allow you to explore Talampaya’s diverse terrain.
Look for condors, eagles, foxes, guanacos and rheas as you hike.
Parts of Talampaya only opened to the public in 1997 after being operated as a ranch, so it still feels untouched.
Make sure to visit the designated fossil area called “Ciudad Perdida” (Lost City) to see the petrified tree trunks up close.
Bring a hat, sunscreen and plenty of water since shade can be scarce.
Photograph the striking rock formations at golden hour when the low sunlight creates amazing colors and shadows.
Camping is available within the park for an immersive experience surrounded by nature.
Relax at Termas de Talacasto
Soak in the natural thermal springs pools at Termas de Talacasto.
It’s an oasis in the desert and very relaxing.
The hot spring waters stay between 95-105°F year round.
Choose from public pools or private tubs depending on your comfort level.
Get a massage or facial at the spa to fully indulge.
Spend a night at the lodge if you want to take your time soaking in the warm mineral waters.
Try their on-site restaurant featuring regional dishes and a large wine list.
Unwind as you soak while looking up at the clear night sky – amazing stargazing!
Take a dip in the thermal river that flows through the property for a more natural experience.
The high mineral content of the waters is thought to provide healing benefits – my skin always feels amazing after!
Four Wheeling Through Ischigualasto
Take a guided four wheeling tour through Ischigualasto Provincial Park.
See unique landscapes not accessible on foot.
Bumpy dirt roads and river crossings make for an exciting, adrenaline-filled ride.
Professional guides provide informative commentary about the park’s geology and ecosystems as you drive.
Early morning and late afternoon tours allow you to avoid the worst midday heat.
Wear clothes you don’t mind getting dusty or dirty!
Make sure to hold on tight around corners and over bumps.
Tours typically provide helmets, but wear clothes that cover your arms and legs for protection.
Bring sunglasses to shield from blowing dust, along with sunscreen and a hat.
Bring your camera to capture the otherworldly scenery but keep a tight grip on it during bumpy parts.
Stop to snap pictures at scenic overlooks or when your guide points out something interesting.
Some tours include refreshments like water, soft drinks, and snacks.
Reserving a private tour allows you to customize the timing and route more.
Make sure to use designated restroom stops since facilities in the park are very limited.
Tip your knowledgeable guide if they provided an informative, safe tour.
Paragliding Over the Andes
Get an adrenaline rush paragliding over the Andes for incredible views of the mountains and valley below.
Multiple launch sites around San Juan offer ideal paragliding conditions.
Most flights last around 15-30 minutes depending on weather and pilot skill.
Soar on wind currents rising from the mountains as you take in the stunning scenery below.
Go tandem for your first time unless you’re an experienced solo flyer.
Listen carefully to safety instructions and follow pilot directions.
Wear the provided helmet and harness snugly for optimal safety and comfort.
Keep your eyes open for amazing views but let the pilot focus on navigating.
Relax and lean back when you land to gently glide onto your feet.
Capture video of your flight if cameras are permitted for breathtaking footage.
Morning flights often provide the calmest winds.
Allow time after to relax and process the adrenaline rush!
Learn How to Make Empanadas
Take an empanada making class and learn how to make these delicious Argentinian pastries.
Choose from beef, chicken, cheese, or other fillings.
Learn techniques for making the dough and properly filling and sealing the empanadas.
Fry or bake your freshly made empanadas to enjoy right away.
Pair them with local wines for the true Argentinian experience.
Chat with local chefs and ask questions during hands-on learning.
Take home recipes and tips to practice making them again.
Check for classes at local restaurants, wineries, or cooking schools.
Some venues may include empanada making between wine tastings.
Read reviews and find a class with a highly rated, engaging teacher.
Snap some photos of you learning to make these iconic Argentinian treats!
Empanada dough can be tricky to master, so patience and practice is key.
Nightlife in Chimbas
Hit the bars and clubs in the Chimbas district for lively nightlife – it’s where the locals go!
Arrive after midnight when the dance floors get packed.
Salsa Club and Rumbo Sur are popular spots for dancing and drinking.
The microbrewery and bar Crawlers often has live music at night.
Stop for late night empanadas and fries at spots like La Tradicional and El Imperial.
Soak up the nighttime energy strolling the busy streets around Avenida Rawson.
Chat up friendly locals to get insider tips on the best places.
Pace yourself on the strong cocktails like Fernet and Coca Cola!
Brush up on your salsa moves or be prepared to learn from dancers.
Uber or taxis are recommended for safe transportation between spots.
The nightlife really gets going after 1am and goes late, so take disco naps!
Horseback Riding Near Jachal
The small town of Jachal offers scenic horseback riding excursions into the foothills of the Andes.
Ride through picturesque valleys, past rivers, and up to mountain lookouts.
Visits to traditional ranches showcase historic rural life.
Let the guides match you with a calm, seasoned horse.
Wear pants and closed-toe shoes for comfort and safety in the saddle.
Beginners can opt for shorter 1-2 hour rides.
Pack a camera to capture your majestic surroundings from horseback.
Visit in March to catch the Grape Harvest Festival celebrations.
Arrive early and allow time to acclimate to counter mountain sickness at high altitudes.
Rehydrate and refuel after with local wines, empanadas and hearty stews.
Consider staying overnight at a countryside lodge or estancia for full immersion.
Rafting on the San Juan River
The Class III rapids on the San Juan River provide an exciting rafting experience.
Cut through deep canyons and lush forests as you traverse churning rapids.
Half-day and full-day excursions cater to different skill levels.
Pay attention to safety briefing and paddle hard when your guide instructs!
Wear the provided wetsuit, helmet and life jacket at all times for safety.
Waterproof cameras are ideal to capture the action as you raft.
Cheering and shouting is part of the thrilling ride through rapids!
Be prepared to get wet – hopefully not flipped overboard.
Pack dry clothes and shoes for after.
Recharge with a picnic lunch along the river between rapids.
Tip your guide generously if they kept your group safe and entertained.
Shop at Mercado Artesanal
Browse handicrafts and souvenirs made by local artisans at this large craft market.
Haggle for the best prices on ponchos, pottery, jewelry, woven goods and more.
Chat with the artists as you shop to learn about their techniques and materials.
Look for traditional weavings made from llama, alpaca and sheep wool.
Pick up locally produced wines, olive oils, and gourmet foods to bring home.
Wander through the dozens of market stalls to find unique handicrafts.
Check out the on-site cafe for empanadas and local dishes when you need a break.
Go earlier in the day for the best selection before vendors sell out.
Expect an authentic local shopping experience – leave preconceptions behind!
Check prices at a few stalls before purchasing to get the best deal.
Folk Music at Resto Bar Triana Gomero
Catch live folk music shows while enjoying dinner and drinks at this rustic restaurant.
Talented local musicians play upbeat Latin rhythms and melodies.
Arrive early to get a table near the front for the best view.
Order classic dishes like empanadas, steaks, stuffed peppers and tamales.
Sip Malbec wines from the region as you dine and listen.
Stay late dancing after the music sets end!
Request songs from the band in between sets.
Practice your Spanish listening skills picking up lyrics.
Buy a CD from the band to replay this authentic Argentinean music at home.
Thank the musicians and tip them if you enjoyed their performance.
The lively atmosphere will expose you to local culture in an unforgettable way.
Sandboarding in Mendoza
Make the short trip to Mendoza and go sandboarding down huge sand dunes – it’s a blast!
Grab a sandboard and ride down dunes up to 730 feet tall.
Gain speed fast, but drag your hands behind to slow and steer.
Waxing the bottom makes it move faster – request wax if needed.
Sit, stand, kneel, or lie down – get creative finding your ideal riding style!
Wrap sunglasses or goggles if blowing sand is an issue.
Wear clothing you don’t mind destroying – sand gets everywhere!
Take fun video clips of friends wiping out or catching big air.
Do advanced tricks like 360s and jumps only if an experienced rider.
Watch where you sit at the top as people come zooming down fast!
Don’t forget to hike back up the dunes between runs – great workout!
Observatory Tour
Take a tour of the El Leoncito Astronomical Complex and observe the stars through high powered telescopes.
See planets like Saturn and Jupiter, along with nebulae and faraway galaxies.
Knowledgeable astronomers give educational commentary about what you observe.
Brave the cold nighttime temperatures at this high desert locale.
Arrive early to allow time for your eyes to adjust to the darkness.
Don’t forget your camera! Photos of planets and stars through the telescopes are awesome.
Observing a moonrise or meteor shower from this ideal vantage point is unforgettable.
Make reservations well in advance since tour capacity is limited.
Gazing at the incredible night sky will make you feel small but also in awe!
Grab some hot chocolate at the cafe to warm up between observatory domes.
Museo de la Memoria Urbana o del Terremoto
The Museo de la Memoria Urbana o del Terremoto is a free museum in San Juan that tells the terrible disaster caused by the earthquake on January 15th 1944.
It is very impressive to hear the story of what happened based on pictures and short films, if you walk further there is a room where they reproduced the movement caused by the earthquake with the same intensity.
There are lots of photos and a volunteer at the entrance tells you a bit of things and the actual events that took place on that fateful day.
In the museum you can see how the city has managed to restructure after the great earthquake and still have the earthquake simulator which is very funny and entertaining.
It is right in the city center and easy to go.
Even if you’re passing through, this museum is impressive and gives a real glimpse of the city’s history.
This museum is housed in sheds which was the San Martín railroad and is administered by the Municipality of San Juan with the intention of keeping the memory of the inhabitants and the disaster caused by the earthquake of 1944.
The newspapers of the time and the pictures show the impact and consequences of the earthquake that lasted just 45 seconds.
It is an excellent museum; the staff is very attentive, and very small but extremely emotional.
Catedral de San Juan
The Catedral de San Juan is recently renovated, established in the 20th century and built after the earthquake in 1944.
It is spacious, beautiful, simple, and a special spirituality radiates from it. It is tall, big, and facing the main square of the city of San Juan, Argentina.
Do not miss the climb to the tower (accessible via an elevator ride) to see the panoramic view of San Juan from above.
It is charmingly located in a quiet part of the city that is lined with trees. Inside, there are a large number of images to enjoy and complete the religious experience.
It is a large church with towering columns and stripped marble steps to get to the altar.
It represents the strength and the rebirth of the people in San Juan after a terrible tragedy.
The Valley of the Moon
The Valle la Luna or The Valley of the Moon is within the Ischigualasto Providential Park and is the second tour stop conducted by guides within the 40 km perimeter of this attraction.
The colors of the day will enchant you, but the magic of the excursion night (possible in the week of the full moon of each month) is what most will enjoy.
The tour is best done with a guide who explains in detail all the wonders of the place.
Since its geological formation in each time period, the fossils that are there are the animals that inhabit the site.
You can spend the whole day exploring the rest of this attraction lunch. You can have lunch in a small restaurant near the park and return to San Juan in the late afternoon.
The Valley of the Moon is very easy to get because the path converges there.
The park does not have too many services so it is important to bring your own provisions like bottled drinking water or a few snacks you can munch in between stops along the valley.
Parque Nacional El Leoncito
The Parque Nacional El Leoncito is accessible to travel by car or on foot with moderate difficulty.
There are a couple of scenic self-guided trails, a place prepared for picnics with tables and grills where you can eat with stunning views of the Ansilta Cord.
You can also visit two astronomical observatories that are within the park, and the famous Pampa del Leoncito (where a sport called carrovelismo is widely practiced) or Barreal Blanco, a natural plateau of 12 km which was believed to be as the former lake bottom in the pre-formation of the Cordillera region in San Juan.
For those who like everything about the universe, you cannot miss this national park that houses the CASLEO (Astronomical Complex of The Leoncio) where the largest telescope in Argentina is located.
It is a unique national park and it is nice to spend the day and at night you can visit the observatory and watch the stars.
Wear warm clothes even in summer because it still gets cold, especially at night.
The park is very well maintained, and there are two hiking trails: one of about 20 min (with waterfall and information panels) and another which is approximately 4 hours with an ascent to the Cerro El Leoncito included (you have to be well prepared because it is physically demanding).
Plaza 25 de Mayo
The Plaza 25 de Mayo is a nice place to stroll, watch some statues, and feed the pigeons in San Juan. You can also visit the cathedral church or have coffee in the various cafeterias that are around it.
The Plaza is the main meeting point of the city, marked with the locations of various historical points of the province.
The square is beautifully kept, very bright, and has an old grove. It is a nice place to stop and unwind while making a tour of the city.
The central fountain and monument to Domingo Faustino Sarmiento are just one of the most outstanding pieces you can find on this landmark square.
Casa Natal de Sarmiento
The Casa Natal de Sarmiento is the official birthplace of the former president of Argentina and it is a very interesting place.
You can see lots of vintage items, books, coins, manuscripts, textiles, and weaving materials of Dona Paula.
It is a must for tourists and is located three blocks away from the main square of San Juan.From the original house, there are only two rooms that were restored.
The materials presented in different rooms are very interesting and the explanatory panels are complete and show his public life as the governor of San Juan, as President of Argentina, as Ambassador and pictures from his exile in Chile.
This place is worth spending a couple of hours to understand the political history of Argentina.
Convento de Santo Domingo
The Convento de Santo Domingo serves as the final resting place of St. Martin in the crossing of the Andes.
It is a magical place that is very well preserved. You can explore the full establishment and at the end of the tour watch the short film about crossing the Andes of San Martin.
It is a must see attraction in San Juan and excellent to make with children.
It is a picturesque and historic place where you can learn more about San Martín and his liberation campaign.
It is a wonderful testimony that has remained standing despite the earthquake and filled with the marvelous works of religious art, although its bell was lost in the earthquake.
You can learn more about the history of San Juan and General San Martin and his time in this province.
Interestingly, this attraction is also called the Cell Historica San Martin.
Rio San Juan
The Rio San Juan is a river formed by the Andean snowmelt. The water starts in the Calingasta and empties into the River drainage and it is touted as very good for fishing.
It is chosen by tourists and locals to spend the day, pitch camping tents, or go swimming especially on weekends as it is near the capital.
The San Juan River begins high up in the Andes and winds for hundreds of kilometers through a million years old valley that he has to cut through on its course.
From this water come the wine of the entire Argentine province of San Juan, magnificent mountain scenery, and the bold colors of the Bald Mountain.
Unfortunately, there is not always plenty of water in the Rio San Juan, since it depends on the melting of the snow in the mountains and foothills.
El Dique de Ullum
Stones, clay and sand, this is the part of the terrain of the foothills where lies San Juan, a city and its province, where it almost never rains.
The inhabitants, who have always dedicated ale cultivation of vines and vegetables, have solved the water problem with the construction of several dams, using the snowfields of the Andes to the west.
The dam closest to the city is the El Dique Ullum . It is here where they have combined business with pleasure.
If you stroll along the reservoir, you can see tourist facilities on the banks and where most guests come to spend the weekend.
The landscape is all green and the water in this basin has the function of creating energy, but above all to bring water to the city and to the crops.
Too bad that the snowfall in recent years has been scarce and water level fell by more than 5 meters.
The architectural work of the Ullum Dam is located 20 Km. from the capital of San Juan and not far from other dams in the Province of Córdoba, Mendoza and Salta.
In April 2015, after three years of drought in the province, the dam has a very low water volume.
In that same month there was an early snowfall at several points which suggests that this situation next summer on the other hand will undergo a cyclical reversal.
However, despite periods of drought, this site has remained very clean and care all around is highlighted.
Champagnera Cavas de Zonda
The Champagnera Cavas de Zonda is a very interesting place, since there are few pits or winery in the world that are literally located inside a mountain.
The walls are made of natural stone and along with indirect lighting and Gregorian chant playing in the background, helps create a magical atmosphere.
The ride is short and the official guides explain a bit about how it was built and the process of manufacturing of wines and offer a glass of bubbly at the end.
It is a very good place to visit and enjoy with guided tour ends with a tasting of champagne straight from the storage tank and within the heart of the mountain.
The place is very cute and good champagnes can be purchased at a reasonable price.
Bodega Las Marianas
The Bodega Las Marianas is a small local winery in Argentina where all the work involved in wine production is done in manual labor.
This winery is a clear example of that with effort and hard work, great things are achieved. The wines from this winery are very good and those with aging in oak are neatly preserved and aged to perfection.
The winery shows the old part, its elements, development, and aging, vineyards, mountain views and a tasting of their wine selections. You can buy it on the spot.
The wine chamber of San Juan has given awards to this winery several times. You can find Malbec, Tempanillo, Syracuse New York, Merlot, Cabernet, among others.
The tour of this bodega and wine tasting experience is one of the best things to do while on a wine route in San Juan.
It has standard quality wines, with some varieties that can be ranked as very good.