Visit to Potrerillos with an afternoon at Termas Cacheuta Spa in Mendoza

Explore the Best of Mendoza’s Nature and Relaxation on a Full-Day Tour to Potrerillos and Termas Cacheuta

If you’re seeking a day that balances adventure with relaxation, this Mendoza tour offers just that. For $160 per person, you’ll enjoy a roughly 12-hour experience starting with a scenic drive from Mendoza, then delving into nature with high-altitude trekking, followed by a soak in thermal waters surrounded by mountains. Led by a knowledgeable bilingual guide, this trip provides a chance to connect with Argentina’s spectacular landscape and unwind in natural hot springs.

What truly sets this experience apart are two things we love: the breathtaking views of Lake Potrerillos and the snowy mountain backdrop during the drive and trek, and the variety of thermal pools at Termas Cacheuta, which cater to different preferences—warm, hot, indoor, outdoor, and even mud treatments. These details make the day both visually stunning and physically soothing.

A potential consideration is the moderate walking involved—the trek is described as charming but might be short for those expecting a lengthy hike, according to some reviews. Also, the lunch experience at a brewery might not satisfy everyone’s expectations, as some found it a bit disorganized and shabby. Still, if you’re looking for a balanced day combining outdoor beauty and wellness, this tour hits the spot. It’s ideal for active travelers who also want a touch of pampering, especially those with an appreciation for scenic mountain vistas and thermal baths.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: The highlights include incredible vistas of Lake Potrerillos and snowy peaks, perfect for photographers and nature lovers.
• Balanced Itinerary: Combines morning mountain trekking with an afternoon of relaxing in thermal pools, appealing to both adventure and relaxation seekers.
• Expert Guides: The guide is professional and bilingual, enhancing your understanding of the landscape and making the day more engaging.
• Value for Money: For $160, you get transport, a guided trek, entry to the thermal spa, and a light lunch with wine—an all-in-one experience.
• Accessibility and Precautions: Most travelers can join, but there are restrictions for pregnant women, recent surgery, or certain health conditions.
• Authentic Experience: The tour emphasizes natural environments, from mountain paths to mountain-backed thermal pools, offering genuine Mendoza scenery.

A Deep Dive Into the Mendoza Day Tour: From Mountain Heights to Thermal Comfort

When we first hear about a combined adventure of mountain trekking and thermal spa relaxation, our expectations gear towards a mix of invigorating outdoor activity and soothing wellness. This tour, operated by Tokio Viajes, strikes that balance well. Starting early from Mendoza, you’re picked up from your hotel, setting the tone for a hassle-free day. The journey to Potrerillos, about an hour from Mendoza, offers captivating views along the way.

Morning Trekking at Potrerillos

You’ll visit one of the most beautiful viewpoints of the Potrerillos Dam—if you’re into scenery, you’ll love the view of turquoise waters contrasting with towering mountains. Then, your guide takes you on a high-altitude walk through the Divisadero del Plata, heading toward the Las Vegas Valley. The paths are described as charming but relatively short—about 1 km with stops every hour, according to some reviews. This makes the trek suitable for most fitness levels, especially if you’re more interested in enjoying the scenery than conquering a lengthy hike.

We loved the way the guide provides insight into the landscape, making each stop more meaningful. The trek offers a chance to breathe in crisp mountain air, listen to the silence broken only by the sounds of nature, and snap photos of that postcard-perfect landscape. The overall experience is about appreciating the natural beauty without feeling rushed or exhausted.

Lunch and Local Flavors

Post-trek, you’ll enjoy a tapas-style lunch paired with local wine at Arbequina. The reviewer’s comment about the lunch being in a “half-abandoned brewery” might give some pause, but remember that this is a small part of the day. The wine and local flavors are genuine highlights, giving you a taste of Mendoza’s rich viticultural culture in a relaxed setting. If you’re a food and wine enthusiast, this brief pause to savor local produce adds a delightful touch to your journey.

Afternoon at Termas Cacheuta

The highlight for many is the afternoon at Termas Cacheuta, a natural thermal spa that’s both scenic and soothing. Surrounded by mountains and beside the Mendoza River, the spa offers a circuit of pools with water temperatures ranging from a refreshing 20°C to a warm 40°C.

You’ll find large outdoor pools perfect for a relaxing soak, and indoor pools for protection from the sun or cooler weather. The spa’s features, including waterfalls, hydromassages, and natural vaporiums, make it feel like a complete wellness retreat. The application of thermal mud is a special treat, offering skin benefits and a genuine connection with natural healing waters.

Reviewers highlight the stunning scenery and the spa’s ability to promote well-being. One remarked that the views from the spa area are “a postcard,” and many appreciated the chance to unwind in such a peaceful mountain setting. However, some noted that the spa’s entry requires wearing a bathing suit and flip-flops, with the option to rent a white coat for thermal mud treatments—an extra detail to keep in mind for comfort and preparedness.

Ending the Day

After a full day of mountain vistas and thermal waters, the tour concludes with a comfortable drive back to Mendoza. The return trip, generally in the late afternoon, offers time for reflection and photos of the sunset over the mountains.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This experience earns praise for its combination of scenic beauty and relaxation. The knowledgeable guide, often praised in reviews, adds educational flavor, making the day both enjoyable and informative. The views at Potrerillos are genuinely spectacular, especially the glimpse of blue waters and snow-capped peaks, which are worth the early wake-up call and short trek.

The thermal spa’s pools and mud treatments offer tangible health benefits—whether simply relaxing or seeking therapeutic relief, the natural waters are a highlight. The variety of pools and features—waterfalls, hydromassages, footbaths—mean you can tailor your relaxation to your mood.

However, some travelers felt the lunch could be improved—a common critique of tours that include food stops at small local establishments. While the wine was appreciated, the brewery setting was described as slightly disorganized. For those seeking a gourmet meal or a more refined culinary experience, this part of the tour might be a minor disappointment.

The group size of up to 19 travelers ensures a relatively intimate experience, and most participants can partake, provided they meet health and age restrictions.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for active travelers who want to see Mendoza’s natural landscapes without sacrificing comfort or wellness. It suits those who enjoy a bit of light hiking, stunning vistas, and a restorative soak in thermal waters.

It’s a good fit for travelers who value authentic scenery and local culture, as well as those who want to combine outdoor adventure with health benefits. Keep in mind that the tour is not recommended for children under 14, pregnant women, or individuals with certain health conditions, such as recent surgery or heart issues.

Final Thoughts

This full-day Mendoza tour offers a well-rounded experience that showcases the region’s dramatic mountain scenery and natural thermal springs. The balance of outdoor activity and relaxation makes it ideal for those who want to get a flavor of Mendoza’s landscapes without overexerting themselves.

The views—especially the drive to Potrerillos and the scenery at the spa—are genuinely memorable, and the thermal pools provide a soothing counterpoint. With a professional guide, good value, and an emphasis on natural beauty, this tour provides a meaningful taste of Mendoza’s outdoor and wellness offerings.

It’s best for travelers who appreciate authentic landscapes, gentle hikes, and natural spa treatments. If you’re seeking a day that combines light adventure with genuine relaxation, this trip will likely hit the mark.

FAQ

What is the starting time for this tour?
It begins at 8:30 am, so be prepared for an early start to make the most of the day.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transfers in and out of Mendoza are included, making the experience seamless from start to finish.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes, casual clothing, and a bottle of water are recommended, especially for the trek.

Can I bring my own bathing suit?
Yes, you can bring your own or rent one at the spa reception for about 1,500 Argentine pesos.

Are children allowed on this tour?
No, children under 14 are not permitted inside the thermal spa, so this is mainly for older teens and adults.

What if I have health concerns?
Those who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or recovering from recent surgery or treatments should consult their doctor before participating.

Is there any extra cost besides the tour price?
Tips are not included, and you might want cash for souvenirs or additional purchases at the spa.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How long is the trek?
The trek is relatively short—about 1 km with stops—making it accessible for most participants.

What makes this tour worthwhile?
The combination of stunning mountain views, expert guidance, and relaxing thermal pools offers an authentic and rejuvenating Mendoza experience worth considering.