Mendoza’s Cacheuta Hot Springs Park + Intermediate Rafting: A Day of Unique Balance

This tour offers a well-rounded day in Mendoza, combining thermal relaxation at Cacheuta Hot Springs, a series of exhilarating zip lines, and a 12 km river rafting trip suited for those with moderate physical fitness. Priced at $120 per person for roughly 10 hours of activity, it’s a package that aims to give you both adventure and unwind — a perfect blend for travelers craving variety. The tour includes pickup service, which simplifies logistics, especially after a long day.

What we truly appreciate about this experience is how it caters to different interests — whether you’re eager to test your balance on zip lines or prefer soaking in warm waters after a splashy river adventure. Another highlight is the small group size (max 19 travelers), which keeps the experience intimate and personalized.

However, a consideration is the travel time to the rafting location, which can take nearly four hours round-trip, so be prepared for a full day. This tour suits those who enjoy active pursuits with a touch of relaxation—great for adventure lovers who also appreciate downtime, and for anyone looking for a balanced day in Mendoza’s outdoors.

Key Points

Diverse activities: Hot springs, zip lines, and river rafting in one day.
Small group size: Personal attention from guides and less crowded experience.
Experienced guides: Highly praised for their safety, knowledge, and friendliness.
Scenic views: Stunning natural landscapes both from zip lines and river rapids.
Value for money: At $120, you get a full day of varied activities and relaxation.
Timing considerations: Nearly four hours of transportation before rafting, so plan meals accordingly.

Why Choose This Tour?

If you’re after a mix of adventure and relaxation, this tour hits the mark. The hot springs provide soothing pools of different temperatures, perfect for unwinding after a chilly rafting session, with reviews praising the beautiful scenery and the chance to soak in the warm waters. The zip line experience offers a quick but thrilling ride with pretty views—a fun way to kick off the day, as several reviewers noted.

Meanwhile, the river rafting section, rated as “intermediate,” is flagged by guides as suitable for most in decent physical condition. Reviewers describe it as “really fun,” with large, exciting rapids and amazing scenery. Guides like Pascua and Silvio earn high marks for their knowledge and friendliness, making the thrill feel safe and accessible.

While in Mendoza, here are other experiences we've covered

Detailed Breakdown of the Experience

Pickup & Transportation

Your day begins with a pickup at your hotel or accommodation in Mendoza, usually around 8:30 a.m. The ride to the activities is via a comfortable minibus, and the group size remains small, contributing to a more personalized experience. The trip to the rafting site takes roughly four hours round-trip, which is a significant chunk of the day but allows time for scenic views and to acclimate to the environment.

Cacheuta Hot Springs & Zip Lines

Once you arrive at Cacheuta Hot Springs, you’ll find a relaxing thermal park with pools of varying depths and temperatures. The hot springs are praised for their beautiful setting and the chance to soak away the cold after rafting or ziplining. Many reviews highlight the well-maintained pools and the opportunity to rent lockers, towels, and bathrobes, making it convenient to enjoy the water comfortably.

A highlight is the zip line adventure, offering a short but scenic ride across a small canyon. Guides are described as friendly and helpful, easing newcomers into the thrill. Several reviews mention the zip line as a fun start to the day, though some noted it being short, with only two lines, which can feel quick if you’re craving longer rides.

Lunch Break

Lunch is not included in the tour, so you might want to plan ahead or bring snacks. The area around the hot springs has local restaurants, providing options for a quick bite or a leisurely meal. Having a light snack beforehand or packing some energy bars can help you stay energized for the afternoon.

While you're exploring Mendoza, here are other experiences we've looked into

River Rafting Adventure

Following relaxation, the focus shifts to intermediate river rafting along a 12 km section of the Mendoza River. The guides supply thermal and safety gear, and as one reviewer pointed out, the equipment is well-kept and instructions are thorough. The rafting itself is described as exciting but manageable, with rapids suitable for most in decent physical condition.

Our sources describe the scenery as breathtaking, with rapids, waterfalls, and tranquil stretches. Guides like Silvio and Aqua received high praise for their English-speaking skills and safety measures, making the adventure accessible even for non-Spanish speakers. Many reviewers mention the splashing fun, and some highlight the local fruit offered during a brief river stop, adding a touch of local flavor.

Post-Rafting & Return

After the rafting, you’ll have the opportunity to purchase photos for a small fee, allowing you to relive the adrenaline rush visually. Then, a quick visit to the thermal pools again for some final relaxation before the return trip to Mendoza.

The drop-off is back at the starting point, around 5:30 p.m., concluding a full day of active fun and soothing relaxation.

Authentic Experiences & Notable Highlights

Reviewers consistently rave about knowledgeable guides like Pascua and Salvio, emphasizing their friendly demeanor and ability to create a safe environment. The views—whether from the zip lines or the river—are repeatedly described as breathtaking, making every moment visually rewarding.

Many travelers appreciate the value for money, noting that for $120, they enjoy a full day of diverse activities. The small group setting offers a more personalized experience, avoiding the crowds often found in larger tours.

Some drawbacks mentioned include long transportation times and the crowded nature of the hot springs later in the day, which might detract from the experience if you’re seeking serene soaking. Plus, a few reviewers found the rafting section shorter than expected, with some suggesting a preference for longer trips or skipping the hot springs altogether for more rafting.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This adventure is ideal for active travelers who want a variety-packed day—combining adrenaline-pumping river rapids, scenic zip lines, and soothing thermal waters. It particularly suits those who enjoy small-group experiences and appreciate guides with good English and a friendly attitude.

It’s a good fit if you’re seeking an affordable full-day activity that doesn’t skimp on scenery or excitement. Keep in mind that transportation time is significant, so those with limited energy or time constraints might want to plan accordingly. Given the mixed reviews about the length of the rafting section and crowds at the hot springs, travelers looking for total relaxation might prefer a dedicated hot springs day, while thrill-seekers will love the balanced adrenaline and relaxation this tour offers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your accommodation in Mendoza, starting around 8:30 a.m.

How long is the total trip?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, including transportation, activities, and return to your lodging.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable clothes suitable for water and activity, and bring a towel if you want to dry off after hot springs or rafting. The tour provider supplies thermal and safety gear for rafting.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with limited mobility?
It requires a moderate physical fitness level. If you’re comfortable with moderate activity, you’ll enjoy it; those with mobility issues might find the rafting and zip lines challenging.

How many people are in each group?
Groups are limited to a maximum of 19 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Can I buy photos of the rafting trip?
Yes, photos are available for purchase at a low cost, usually less than $3 per person.

Is food provided?
No, lunch is not included, but there are local restaurants at the hot springs area.

What is the level of rafting?
Rated as intermediate, the rapids are described as big and exciting but manageable for most in good shape.

Are there any age restrictions?
While not explicitly stated, the physical nature suggests that it’s best suited for teenagers and adults with moderate fitness. Check with the operator if in doubt.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a robust mix of adventure and relaxation that suits those who want more than just sightseeing. The combination of thermal waters, zip lines, and river rapids makes it a great value at $120, especially given the small group size and friendly guides. It’s perfect for adventure lovers who also appreciate comfort and scenic beauty, making Mendoza a memorable part of your trip.

If you’re after a day filled with adrenaline, stunning views, and soothing hot springs, this experience is a solid choice. Just beware of the long transit times and consider how much rafting versus soaking you prefer. For travelers who love a balanced dose of action and downtime, this tour will deliver a truly enjoyable Mendoza adventure.

Note: Always confirm availability and consider weather conditions, as the tour has a full cancellation policy if canceled due to poor weather.