The cabecera (departmental capital), Tupungato, is located approximately 70 km (43 mi) south of Mendoza city, in the Valle de Uco.

[citation needed] The department is approximately 1,200 metres above mean sea level, and comprises 2.485 km² (1.6% of the provincial total).

According to the 2001 census [INDEC], the total population of the department was 28,539 with a density of 11.48 inhabitants per km².

The region is mainly dependent on agricultural production, with vineyards being its most important produce, representing 30% of the planted lands.

The wine industry, however, is particularly relevant due to the constant investments and intensive labour occupation.