Andes High Mountain full day Tour

Discover the Andes with the Full-Day High Mountain Tour from Mendoza

If you’re visiting Mendoza and craving a taste of Argentina’s most iconic natural wonder, this Andes High Mountain Full-Day Tour offers an accessible way to see the towering peaks and dramatic landscapes. For around $66.50, you’ll spend about 10 to 12 hours traveling in comfort, with hotel pickup and drop-off included. The stops include the Potrerillos Dam, the Puente del Inca, and the Aconcagua National Park, plus the border town of Las Cuevas near Chile. This tour is a fantastic choice for travelers eager to experience the grandeur of the Andes without the hassle of planning or strenuous hiking.

What we love most are the stunning vistas—the chance to see Aconcagua, the highest peak in the Americas, and the chance to snap incredible photos at iconic spots like Puente del Inca. The guide’s extensive knowledge and friendly manner also elevate the experience, making the long drive engaging and informative.

One potential consideration is the long drive—this tour can take up most of your day, which might be tiring if you prefer more outdoor activity. It’s best suited for those who love scenic bus journeys and want a rundown of the region’s highlights in one day.

This tour appeals especially to travelers who appreciate comfortable sightseeing with expert guidance and want to witness some of South America’s most spectacular mountain scenery firsthand. If you’re interested in natural landmarks, cultural history, or simply want to see the world’s highest summits, this could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Convenient full-day experience with hotel pickup and drop-off in Mendoza.
• Multiple scenic stops, including Aconcagua, Puente del Inca, and Potrerillos Dam.
• Expert bilingual guides bring the landscape and history to life with engaging commentary.
• Affordable value given the length of the tour and the iconic sights visited.
• Flexible stops for free time and photo opportunities, especially at Las Cuevas and Los Penitentes.
• Long drive means you’ll spend a significant amount of time on the bus, but with comfortable transportation.

An In-Depth Look at What the Tour Offers

The Andes High Mountain Full-Day Tour is designed for those who want to see the Andes without necessarily hiking or venturing off-road. With a price of just over $66, it offers excellent value considering the scope of sights included, especially since all transportation, guide services, and some entry fees are covered.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start early at 7:30am with hotel pickup in Mendoza, setting the tone for a day filled with breathtaking views and fascinating stops. The journey begins with the drive toward Potrerillos Dam, about 70 km away, which is a perfect first stop for a peaceful moment amid mountain scenery. Travelers consistently mention the beauty of this area, describing it as a “special mountain space to give oxygen to the soul,” and praising the calm, scenic environment.

Next up is the Puente del Inca, a natural rock formation that resembles a bridge over the Las Cuevas River. This site is a favorite for many, with visitors noting how spectacular and unusual the formation is. It’s also historically significant, as it’s been a natural landmark for centuries. One reviewer highlighted, “The scenery was spectacular,” though some mentioned that traffic jams in winter can affect the visit, so timing might influence your experience.

Afterward, the tour visits Aconcagua National Park, home to the world’s highest mountain outside of Asia. Here, you’ll get amazing photo opportunities and a chance to marvel at the 6960-meter peak. Although the park admission is free, the view of Aconcagua itself is often described as breathtaking—a true highlight for nature lovers.

The tour includes stops in Uspallata, Los Penitentes, and Las Cuevas, with free time allocated for lunch (not included). Many travelers choose to bring a packed lunch, as some reviews suggest that the available options aren’t always to everyone’s taste, but the experience of dining with a mountain backdrop is often described as memorable.

The final stop is the Cristo Redentor de los Andes, a monument at the border with Chile, offering jaw-dropping views of the mountain range. It’s a fitting conclusion to a day filled with natural beauty and cultural touches.

Transportation and Guide Quality

Transport is in a comfortable air-conditioned minivan, which many reviews praise as clean and well-maintained. With a group limited to 24 travelers, it’s small enough to foster conversation but large enough to feel social. Guides like Federico, Romi, and Rocio earn praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to share stories that add depth to the scenery.

Real Traveler Insights

One reviewer summed it up: “Our guide Federico and Javier were wonderful! I would definitely recommend this tour if you are exploring Mendoza – it was fantastic.” Others remark on how the guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge about geography and history elevate the tour — not just sightseeing, but learning.

A common theme among reviewers is the spectacular scenery—from the peaks to the valleys—and the quality of the commentary. For example, a traveler said, “The views were magnificent, and the guide taught us about the formation of the Andes and historic figures like San Martin.”

Practical Considerations

While the tour is packed with notable sights, be prepared for a long day—the drive to and from Mendoza takes several hours. If you’re not a fan of bus travel, or if jet lag or tiredness is a concern, this might not be ideal. Also, note that lunch is not included, so budget time and money for a meal, especially if you want to try local cuisine.

The cost of $66.50 is quite reasonable given the scenic variety and the inclusions. You’re paying for transport, guides, and some free entry to parks and landmarks, which makes it a good deal compared to booking individual excursions or self-driving.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re visiting Mendoza and want a rundown of the Andes with minimal fuss, this tour fits the bill perfectly. It’s ideal for first-time visitors or those with limited time but eager to see Aconcagua and the iconic landmarks. The expert guides elevate the experience beyond mere sightseeing, making it educational and engaging.

For travelers who enjoy comfortable bus rides and scenic stops, this is an excellent choice. However, if you’re seeking more outdoor activity or hiking, this tour might feel too relaxed or slow-paced. Also, if you’re traveling with young children or prefer flexible timing, the structured schedule and long drive might be less appealing.

FAQs about the Andes High Mountain Full-Day Tour

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off in Mendoza, making it easy to start your day without extra hassle.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 10 to 12 hours, so it’s a full-day commitment but convenient for those wanting to maximize sightseeing.

What sights are included?
Stops include Potrerillos Dam, Puente del Inca, Aconcagua National Park, Uspallata, Los Penitentes, Las Cuevas, and the Cristo Redentor monument.

Is there free time for lunch?
Yes, there is about 2 hours at Las Cuevas for lunch. Lunch isn’t included, so you should plan accordingly.

Are the guides bilingual?
Yes, the guides operate in multiple languages, including English and Spanish, ensuring clear explanations during the trip.

What should I bring?
Bring layers for mountain weather, camera for photos, and money if you wish to buy souvenirs or snacks during stops.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the start for a full refund, making it a flexible option in case of weather concerns.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers say yes, but children must be accompanied by an adult. The long bus ride and full schedule should be considered when traveling with young kids.

Wrapping It Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This Andes High Mountain Tour offers a window into some of South America’s most impressive natural sights in a comfortable, organized manner. It’s best suited for those who want to see the peaks and landmarks with minimal effort—a good mix of sightseeing, cultural points, and photo opportunities.

If you appreciate guided commentary from passionate guides, stunning mountain scenery, and don’t mind a long bus ride, this tour will leave you with unforgettable memories of the Andes. It’s particularly perfect for travelers interested in mountain panoramas and iconic landmarks like Aconcagua, without the need for strenuous activity.

Those seeking a cost-effective, well-organized day trip that covers several key highlights of the Andes will find this tour offers excellent value and a compelling introduction to this majestic range. Just pack your patience and camera!