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La Payunia Provincial Reserve

Why Visit?

Embark on an exhilarating odyssey into La Payunia, one of Argentina"s lesser-known gems, renowned for having one of the highest concentrations of volcanic cones in the world. This remote reserve, situated in southern Mendoza Province, is a landscape photographer’s paradise and a haven for adventure seekers.

Getting There

La Payunia is best accessed from Malargüe, a small city approximately 190 kilometers away. Drive south from Malargüe on Route 40, then east on Provincial Route 186. The journey can be rough, so a 4x4 vehicle is recommended. Alternatively, several local tour operators offer day trips that include transportation, guiding services, and sometimes meals.

Itinerary

Start your adventure early to make the most of the daylight. A typical tour kicks off at the volcanic field, featuring over 800 volcanic cones. These range from perfect cone-shaped beginners’ mounts to rugged, lava-strewn mounds, challenging even for seasoned climbers.

Morning – Volcán Payún Matrú

Begin with a hike up Volcán Payún Matrú, an extinct shield volcano. At 3,680 meters, its summit offers sweeping views of the reserve"s stark, moon-like terrain. The ascent is moderately challenging, making it a rewarding endeavor for those with a good fitness level.

Afternoon – Campo de Bombas

Post-lunch, head to Campo de Bombas, a striking area dotted with black volcanic bombs (large molten rocks ejected from a volcano). Here, explore the peculiar rock formations and the diverse volcanic debris. It’s also a great spot for wildlife watching; keep your eyes peeled for guanacos, foxes, and the rare Andean condor.

Interesting Fact

La Payunia is a vital conservation area, not only for its geological wonders but also as a habitat for the endemic Pampas cat and numerous other species adapted to this unique volcanic environment.

This adventure through La Payunia is not just a journey over volcanic landscapes; it’s a voyage into Earth"s primordial forces and the resilience of life.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Villavicencio Natural Reserve (Reserva Natural Villavicencio)

Why Visit?

Adventure Awaits at Reserva Natural Villavicencio

Day 1: Arrival & Exploration

Start your adventure in Mendoza, a city famed for its wine but also a gateway to untamed landscapes. From here, drive or join an arranged tour heading 50 km northeast to Reserva Natural Villavicencio, known for its stunning biodiversity and breathtaking scenery. The road itself, part of the historic Route 52, offers panoramic views and a chance to travel the same path once used during the epic crossing of the Andes by San Martín. Upon arrival, check into the reserve"s accommodation - offering a rustic yet comfortable base for your explorations.

Day 2: Hiking the Caracoles Viewpoint

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a hike to Caracoles Viewpoint. This moderate trek rewards adventurers with a phenomenal view of the surrounding mountains and the serpentine road you traveled the previous day. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including guanacos and foxes, along the way. The route is well-marked, but hiring a local guide could enrich your experience with insights into the area"s flora, fauna, and history.

Day 3: Historical and Botanical Tour

Dive deeper into the area"s natural and cultural heritage with a guided tour of the Villavicencio Chapel and the historically significant Hotel Villavicencio, a symbol of the region"s golden age of thermal tourism. Wander through the botanical garden to discover over 200 species of native plants. Each stop is a short walk from the next, with plenty of opportunities for wildlife watching and photography.

Day 4: Departure

Before heading back to Mendoza, take a final stroll around the reserve, breathing in the crisp mountain air and reflecting on the memorable experiences of the past few days. Villavicencio is more than just a natural reserve; it"s a journey through nature and time.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Aconcagua Provincial Park

Why Visit?

Embark on a pulse-pounding journey to the roof of the Americas at Aconcagua Provincial Park, a mecca for adventure lovers with its towering peak, captivating vistas, and rugged terrain.

Day 1: Mendoza to Confluencia

Start your adventure in Mendoza, a vibrant city nestled in the heart of Argentina’s wine country. After securing a permit for park entry (mandatory and can be obtained online or in Mendoza), arrange transport to Horcones, the park’s main entrance. The journey takes approximately three hours by road, traveling through the scenic Mendoza River valley. From Horcones, embark on a 3-4 hour trek to Confluencia, the first base camp, at 3,400 meters. This trek offers a gentle introduction to the stark beauty of the Andes, with the South Face of Aconcagua looming ahead.

Day 2: Confluencia to Plaza de Mulas

Rise early for the demanding 8-hour hike to Plaza de Mulas, the main base camp situated at 4,300 meters. This path winds through diverse landscapes, from rocky outcrops to expansive snow fields, challenging even the most seasoned hikers. Keep an eye out for the Andean condor, soaring high above the mountains.

Day 3: Day trips and Exploration

Utilize Plaza de Mulas as your exploration hub. Engage in shorter treks such as the one to Plaza Canada or set out towards the Ibañez Valley. For the truly ambitious, a non-technical climb up nearby Cerro Bonete (5,004 meters) offers unparalleled views of Aconcagua itself.

Day 4: Return to Mendoza

Descend back to Horcones, reflecting on the conquests of the past days. Transportation from Horcones to Mendoza wraps up your adventure, filled with the awe-inspiring scale and natural beauty of Aconcagua Provincial Park.

This itinerary promises an unforgettable experience blending extreme physical challenge with the profound tranquility of nature at its most sublime.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Potrerillos

Why Visit?

Adventure Seekers’ Itinerary to Potrerillos, Argentina

Day 1: Arrival in Mendoza

Land in Mendoza, the vibrant capital of the Mendoza Province, famed for its wine and stunning Andean backdrop. From here, rent a car or hop on a local bus for a scenic 1-hour drive to the mountain haven of Potrerillos, your base for adrenaline-fueled exploits.

Day 2: Mountain Biking and Horseback Riding

Start your day with a mountain biking tour. The rugged terrain around Potrerillos offers trails ranging from beginner to advanced. Local operators like Potrerillos Explorer provide guided tours that reveal hidden nooks of the Andean landscape you wouldn’t find alone. After lunch, switch gears and experience the landscape from a different perspective by horseback, an homage to Argentina’s gaucho culture.

Day 3: Water Sports on Potrerillos Dam

Head to the striking Potrerillos Dam, an artificial lake perfect for water sports. The high-altitude winds make it ideal for windsurfing and kite-surfing. Kayaking here offers a more relaxed pace to enjoy the stunning views of the Andes reflecting in the turquoise waters. Rental equipment is available on-site from various local vendors.

Day 4: Zip-line Adventure and Return to Mendoza

Cap off your visit with a thrilling zip-line adventure through the Andean forests, providing a bird"s-eye view of the valley. Post adrenaline rush, drive back to Mendoza. If time permits, explore more of Mendoza’s culinary scene or perhaps unwind with a locally produced Malbec, celebrating the spirit of adventure.

Interesting Fact: Potrerillos remains largely undiscovered by international tourists, offering a more authentic and intimate Argentine adventure experience compared to more crowded destinations.

With adventure at every turn, Potrerillos ensures your Argentine escapade will be nothing short of exhilarating!

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Puente del Inca (Inca Bridge)

Why Visit?

Adventure Awaits at Puente del Inca: An Unforgettable Expedition

Embark on a thrilling journey to the awe-inspiring Puente del Inca, an ancient and natural bridge located in the heart of Argentina"s Mendoza province. This marvel of nature, steeped in history and rich in geothermal wonders, is a must-visit for adventurous spirits.

Day 1: Arrival in Mendoza

Fly into Governor Francisco Gabrielli International Airport (Mendoza), where your adventure begins. From the airport, rent a car or join an organized tour for the scenic drive towards the Andes. The route to Puente del Inca is along National Route 7, approximately 183 kilometers. Prepare for breathtaking views as you approach the mountainous terrain.

Day 2: Explore Puente del Inca

Rise early and set out for Puente del Inca. The site, located at an altitude of about 2,740 meters, features the naturally formed bridge which spans the Vacas River. The bridge"s striking colors come from the mineral-rich waters flowing beneath it, painting the rocks in hues of yellow, orange, and green.

For those intrigued by history, explore the remnants of the early 20th-century thermal resort, devastated by an avalanche but still standing sentinel over the bridge. The area"s microclimate allows for rare flora, and the sulfur springs are said to have healing properties.

Adventure Tip: Strap on your hiking boots for a guided trek along the nearby trails. The area offers panoramic views of the Andes, providing plenty of photo opportunities. For the more experienced hikers, the ascent to Mount Aconcagua’s base camp can be an exhilarating challenge, reachable from Puente del Inca.

Day 3: Return to Mendoza

After a hearty breakfast, bid farewell to the Inca Bridge and head back to Mendoza city. On your return, stop at Uspallata Valley for a quick lunch and maybe some souvenir shopping, capturing the essence of Andean crafts.

Interesting Fact: Legend has it that the bridge was formed by the Inca emperor who wished to reach his ailing son on the other side of the river, showing not just a natural wonder, but a story of love and desperation woven into the landscape.

Whether you"re seeking solitude, a physical challenge, or a peek into the past, Puente del Inca offers an exhilarating connection with nature and history.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.