Driving and Walking in Mendoza

•Traffic
By U.S. standards, traffic in the city is fast and aggressive. Stoplights are normally followed, stop signs are not and many intersections have neither. Generally speaking, the car coming from the right has the right of way—not all of the time, but generally.

•Taxis & Remises
Taxis are black and yellow, and are always clearly marked. Traveling by taxi is a safe and easy way to explore Mendoza. They also have the advantage of being incredibly cheap. A taxi across town will cost you about AR$12 (or US$4).

Remises are unmarked taxis that look like normal cars with a small antanae and a yellow number on the trunk. They are much newer and cleaner than most taxis. It can be cheaper to rent a remise (with driver) for the day than to rent a car for the day. Though, we’d advice to look into both options before making your decision to see what’s best for you.

•Maps
A funny thing about maps in Mendoza is that we have yet to find two that are alike. The other challenge is that very few streets outside of the city have street signs. Taken together, those challenges can make for some interesting trips. If you feel most comfortable driving yourself we suggest you stop by the Vines of Mendoza Information Center and get directions (our directions use landmarks in combination with street signs to help you find your way). And, buy two or three maps. Then, if you can't find your way using one, you can always try the second!

•Walking in Mendoza
Growing up, all of our mothers would pester us about looking both ways when crossing the street—you should heed that advice in Mendoza. We have a simple saying to describe walking in Mendoza: In the U.S., pedestrians have the right of way; in Mendoza, pedestrians have the right to get out of the way. Keep that in mind and you'll be fine…

Sidewalks are covered with beautiful tiles, but are uneven and quite slippery when wet. Watch out for small steps up and down when walking.

•Acequias
Acequias are the small, open concrete canals that provide clean water from the Andes to the City. All the sidewalks have small paths over Acequias leading to the street. Make sure you stay on that small path or you could see an Acequia more up close and personal than you’d care for.

•Stray Dogs
Stray dogs are common in Mendoza. Most are well feed, calm and happy dogs that frolic around the city. There is no need to feed, pet or take them home. They are content as they are.