Mendoza: River Rafting & Canopy in the Andes Mountain Range

If you’re looking for an adventure-filled day in Mendoza that combines white water rafting with a canopy crossing, this tour offers a compelling mix of adrenaline and stunning scenery. For $78 per person, you’ll spend about 8.5 hours exploring the rugged beauty of the Andes while tackling rapids and zipping over the Mendoza River. Guided by knowledgeable instructors in both English and Spanish, this experience is designed for those craving outdoor thrills with a backdrop of some of Argentina’s most dramatic mountain views.

Two things we particularly like about this experience are the clarity of the itinerary—you know exactly what to expect—and the opportunity to meet people from around the world during the rafting. The scenic views of the river and mountains are a highlight, creating memorable moments both on the water and in the treetops. That said, one consideration is the length of wait times — reviews mention a few hours of waiting after the rafting, which might test your patience but also offers downtime to relax or grab a bite.

This tour suits active travelers who enjoy team activities, stunning landscapes, and a bit of risk. It’s especially ideal if you’re looking for a full-day adventure that showcases Mendoza’s natural beauty while providing a genuine adrenaline rush. However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or are traveling with very young children, this might not be the best fit.

Key Points

• Thrilling combination of white water rafting and canopy crossing.
• Scenic views of the Andes mountains and Mendoza River.
• Professional guides ensure safety and enhance the experience.
• Group activity ideal for social travelers and adventure seekers.
• Duration of 8.5 hours includes transportation, activity time, and some free time.
• Suitable for ages 10+ and those without mobility or health restrictions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Mendoza River Rafting & Canopy Tour

The Itinerary: What to Expect from Start to Finish

This tour begins with hotel pickup (if you choose the transport option), whisking you away to the adventure base in Mendoza Province. Once there, you’ll gear up with neoprene wetsuits, life jackets, and helmets, all provided, which means you don’t need to worry about bringing special clothing—just dress comfortably and prepare for some splashing.

The first major activity is a 12-kilometer rafting trip on the Mendoza River. This section offers level 3 and 4 rapids, promising a real dose of excitement for those with some rafting experience, or at least a good sense of adventure. As you paddle through the swift currents, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of the Andes, with towering peaks framing the river. It’s a perfect setting for photos and simply soaking in the mountain air.

What the Guides Bring to the Table

According to reviews, guides like Fernando and others are not only very competent but also friendly and attentive, making even nervous first-timers feel comfortable. The emphasis on safety is clear, and their local knowledge adds an extra layer of richness to the experience. Their English and Spanish instructions help bridge language gaps, making the tour accessible for international travelers.

The Canopy Crossing: A Thrill from a Different Perspective

After the rafting, you’ll have some downtime, and then the tour continues with the Canopy Andino segment. For about 700 meters (0.4 miles), you’ll glide across four sections of steel cables hanging over the Mendoza River—10 meters above the water. Think of it as a high-altitude zipline with panoramic views of the river and the surrounding mountains.

While some reviews found the ziplining a bit “boring,” that likely depends on personal taste. For many, the canopy crossing offers a unique perspective of the landscape and a chance to enjoy a different kind of adrenaline rush—swinging from cable to cable over the river below.

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The Free Time and Facilities

Post-activities, you’ll have access to the operations base, where a restaurant and a pool provide options for relaxing, eating, or just unwinding. Since swimming is only available from December to February, if you’re visiting outside these months, you’ll want to plan accordingly. The base is a welcome break after a busy day, providing the chance to chat with fellow adventurers or enjoy a local drink.

Practical Details: Cost, Transportation, and What’s Included

At $78 per person, this tour offers a solid value, especially when you factor in hotel pickup and drop-off (if you select that option), along with all safety equipment and the services of professional guides. The insurance included adds peace of mind, which is important when dealing with water sports.

The duration of 8.5 hours means you’ll want to set aside your whole day, but the experience is well-paced, with plenty of opportunities for photos and breaks. The group sizes tend to be moderate, fostering a lively, social atmosphere without feeling crowded.

Considerations and Limitations

One aspect to keep in mind is the waiting time that can extend up to three hours after the rafting, as some reviews mention. While this might be a chance to relax, enjoy the scenery, or chat with fellow travelers, it could be tedious for those eager to move quickly through activities. Also, swimming is only available December through February, so if you’re visiting outside those months, plan to skip that part.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure appeals most to active travelers who enjoy outdoor sports, scenic landscapes, and social experiences. It’s ideal if you’re traveling with companions who share a sense of adventure or if you want a full day of nature and adrenaline. Family groups with children over 10 looking for a safe yet exhilarating activity will find this suitable, but it’s not recommended for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, or people over 65 or 220 lbs (100 kg).

Why Choose This Experience?

We loved the clarity of the itinerary—knowing exactly what activities are involved and the safety measures in place reassures travelers. The stunning mountain views combined with the thrill of rapids make for a memorable experience that’s both exciting and picturesque. The guides’ professionalism adds confidence, especially for first-timers.

The balance of adventure and downtime allows you to savor the landscape without feeling rushed, even with the long waiting periods at certain points. The inclusion of transportation, equipment, and insurance at this price makes it good value for a day packed with action.

What Could Be Better?

The main drawback is the waiting time after rafting, which some might find frustrating. If you’re someone who prefers a tightly scheduled day, this could be a minor annoyance. Also, the ziplining segments might not thrill everyone equally, especially if you’re seeking high-adrenaline, long-length zips.

Final Thoughts

This Mendoza adventure is best suited for adventure lovers, nature fans, and social travelers seeking a full-day experience. It’s ideal if you want to combine scenic beauty with adrenaline in a safe, guided environment. While it’s not the cheapest tour around, the mix of activities, quality guides, and spectacular views makes it a worthwhile choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, if you select the pickup option, transportation to and from your Mendoza accommodation is included.

How long is the rafting segment?
The rafting lasts approximately 1 hour, covering 12 kilometers of river with exciting rapids.

What levels are the rapids?
The rapids are rated level 3 and 4, offering a good mix of thrill and challenge.

Can children participate?
Yes, children over 10 years old can join, making it suitable for family adventures.

Is swimming available during the tour?
Swimming is only available from December to February, depending on weather and water conditions.

What should I bring?
Bring a change of clothes, towel, sunscreen, water, sports shoes, water shoes, and cash for extra expenses.

Is the experience suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility issues?
No, the tour is not recommended for pregnant women, or individuals with mobility impairments or health restrictions.

This Mendoza adventure offers a well-rounded dose of nature, adrenaline, and scenic beauty, perfect for travelers eager to add a splash of excitement to their Argentina trip. Whether you’re soaring over the river in the canopy or navigating the rapids, this experience guarantees memorable moments amid stunning mountain scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby