From Mendoza: Full day Vallectios Trekking in the Andes

From Mendoza: Full Day Vallecitos Trekking in the Andes
Location: Mendoza Province, Argentina
Country: Argentina
Rating: 4.6
Price: $250 per person
Supplier: Kahuak Turismo

Mendoza’s mountain magic in a day — what’s not to love?
For those of us craving a day of fresh mountain air and breathtaking scenery, this full-day trek offers just that. Starting from the lively city of Mendoza, you’ll be whisked away in a comfortable minivan to the quaint town of Potrerillos, where your adventure begins. For $250, you get a well-paced 10.5-hour experience that combines scenic drives, engaging hikes, and a delicious included lunch.

What really stands out are two things we love: first, the spectacular mountain views — snow-dusted peaks and shimmering lakes that make you feel like you’re in a postcard — and second, the knowledgeable guides who bring the landscape alive with interesting insights. The included boxed lunch and fruit are a thoughtful touch, perfect for refueling during the trek.

A potential consideration? The moderate difficulty level, with around 5-6 hours of walking, might be challenging for some travelers with limited stamina. It’s definitely suited for active folks who enjoy a good mountain hike. Overall, if you’re looking for an authentic outdoor experience beyond Mendoza’s vineyards, this tour is ideal — especially if you’re eager to see the dramatic landscapes of the Andes firsthand.

Key Points

• Spectacular Views: Expect snow-capped peaks, lakes, and rugged valleys perfect for photography.
• All-Inclusive Convenience: Lunch, bottled water, equipment, and transportation are included, making it a seamless day out.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 9 participants, offering a more personalized and engaging adventure.
• Expert Guides: Guides speak both Spanish and English, ensuring you understand and appreciate the landscape.
• Moderate Challenge: About 5-6 hours of walking, suitable for active travelers comfortable with a moderate hike.
• Ideal for: Adventure lovers, nature enthusiasts, and those wanting a break from winery tours or city sightseeing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Andes: A Day in the Mountains from Mendoza

The full-day Vallecitos Trekking tour is a well-rounded way to experience the Argentine Andes without committing to a multi-day trek. It combines comfortable transportation, expert guiding, and varied scenery, making it a smart choice for travelers wanting authentic mountain immersion.

Starting from Mendoza: Comfort and Convenience

The day begins with a hotel pickup from centrally located Mendoza hotels, which is a convenient start. You’ll then hop into a minivan for a 35-minute drive through Mendoza’s vineyards, giving you a taste of the local landscape even before reaching the mountains. The journey continues for about two hours into the rugged terrain around Potrerillos.

Traveling by minivan is a plus — it keeps you relaxed and allows for scenic commentary from your guide, who we can confidently say will be both knowledgeable and personable. The small size of the group (up to 9 participants) ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd and can ask questions freely.

The Heart of the Tour: Trekking Through the Andes

Arriving in Potrerillos, you’ll start your hike with your guide, who will lead you into the mountain wilderness. The path passes snow-dusted peaks, rocky ravines, and shimmering lakes, offering countless opportunities for photos. The terrain is described as moderate, involving 5-6 hours of walking, which means it’s accessible to most reasonably fit travelers but still rewarding.

What makes this hike special is the variety of scenery. You’ll be walking through the Mendoza River Valley, passing steep rocky hills with peaks often shrouded in clouds. The landscape’s ruggedness contrasts beautifully with the tranquil, man-made lake in Potrerillos, which spans 12 km by 3 km (7.5 miles by 2 miles). This lake is a fantastic spot to pause, soak in the views, or snap a memorable photo.

Lunch with a View

Around midday, you’ll take a 30-minute break to enjoy the included boxed lunch and fresh fruit. The lunch is designed to be satisfying but portable, giving you the energy for the second part of your hike. Many reviewers rave about the quality of the food — simple, tasty, and perfectly timed for a mountain picnic.

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The Vallecitos Excursion: A Mountain Summit

Post-lunch, your guide will lead you on an additional 3-hour guided hike into the Vallecitos area. This part of the day offers a different perspective of the mountains, with higher elevations and perhaps clouds swirling around the peaks. The terrain might be a bit more challenging, but the views are well worth the effort. As one reviewer notes, “The guides really know their stuff, and their enthusiasm makes the mountains come alive.”

Return Journey and Reflection

After a full day of activity, you’ll retrace your route back, enjoying a 2.5-hour drive filled with scenic vistas and conversation. You’ll arrive back at your Mendoza hotel around evening time, tired but happy.

What’s Included and How It Matters

The tour includes all necessary equipment, which means you don’t need to worry about gear. The bottled water keeps you hydrated, especially important when hiking in mountain climates. The professional guides speak both Spanish and English, ensuring clear communication and a richer understanding of the landscape and local flora and fauna.

The cost of $250 reflects a good value, considering the full-day itinerary, transportation, guide, and meals. For travelers seeking an immersive mountain experience, it’s a fair price — especially when you consider the stunning scenery and the chance to stretch your legs away from vineyards.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This trek is best suited for active travelers who enjoy moderate hikes and scenic vistas. It’s a good fit if you’re not just after sightseeing but want to feel immersed in the landscape. It’s also ideal for those interested in the natural beauty of the Andes without the time or physical commitment of multi-day treks.

Final thoughts

This full-day trek from Mendoza offers a genuine mountain adventure in one of South America’s most dramatic landscapes. The combination of beautiful vistas, expert guides, and an easy-to-include lunch makes it a compelling choice for travelers seeking an active day outdoors. The small group size ensures a personalized experience, and the scenic drives add to the overall immersion.

While the moderate difficulty means it’s not suitable for everyone — especially those with mobility issues — active and outdoor-minded travelers will find this a rewarding way to encounter the stunning Andes. The tour’s flexibility, friendly guides, and unforgettable views make it a highlight for those who want to see beyond Mendoza’s famous wineries.

If you’re after a day of fresh air, mountain scenery, and a taste of adventure, this trek is a smart choice — a worthwhile investment in your Argentine trip.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from centrally located Mendoza hotels, as well as all transportation during the day.

How long is the total drive to and from Potrerillos?
The trip involves about a 35-minute drive to the mountains and roughly a 2-hour return journey, making for a smooth travel experience.

What is the hiking like?
The hike lasts about 5-6 hours total, with walks through rugged valleys, rocky hills, and lakes. It’s rated as moderate, suitable for active travelers.

What should I bring?
While the tour provides equipment, it’s wise to wear comfortable hiking shoes, bring layers for changing weather, and pack extra snacks if desired. The tour supplies bottled water and a picnic lunch.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Given the moderate difficulty and walking time, it’s best for older children or teenagers comfortable with outdoor activity, but not suitable for wheelchair users.

Are guides bilingual?
Yes, guides speak both Spanish and English, ensuring you can fully understand and appreciate the landscape.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the price worth it?
Considering the guided experience, scenic drives, included meals, and small group setting, most travelers find the $250 fee reasonable for a full day of adventure and breathtaking views.

To sum it up, this trek offers a rare chance to get out of Mendoza’s city buzz and into the raw, stunning beauty of the Argentine Andes. It’s perfect for active explorers eager to see snow-capped peaks, shimmering lakes, and rugged valleys up close, all with the comfort of expert guides and convenient logistics. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just craving a day of mountain air, this tour is likely to be a memorable highlight of your trip.

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