Imagine starting your day with a hearty breakfast overlooking a tranquil lake, then feeling the adrenaline rush as you navigate thrilling rapids on the Mendoza River, all before sitting down to an authentic Argentine asado. For $228 per person, this 8.5-hour tour offers a well-rounded blend of scenic beauty, adventure, and regional cuisine. Led by a friendly guide (whose name you’ll receive via WhatsApp), you’ll visit the iconic Gran Hotel Potrerillos, experience the rush of white-water rafting, and end with a delicious lunch that captures the essence of Argentine flavors.

What we love most about this tour is its combination of nature and culture—the stunning mountain scenery with the lakeside breakfast, paired with the local tradition of asado. The personalized experience with small group sizes (a maximum of 10 travelers) makes it feel intimate and flexible. And the safe, well-organized nature of the tour means you can relax and focus on enjoying each moment.

One consideration to keep in mind is that the destinations and guides may vary, which can slightly change the experience. But from the glowing reviews, it’s clear that the quality remains high. This tour is ideal for travelers seeking adventure coupled with regional flavors, especially those who appreciate stunning vistas and a taste of authentic Argentine cuisine.

Key Points

Scenic Lakeside Breakfast: Enjoy a hearty start at a historic hotel with mountain views.
Thrilling River Rafting: Experience an adrenaline-filled adventure on the Mendoza River.
Authentic Argentine Asado: Savor regional flavors in a relaxed mountain setting.
Flexible, Small Groups: Max of 10 travelers for a personalized experience.
Guider and Pickup: Pickup is offered, and the guide’s contact is shared via WhatsApp.
Good Weather Policy: The tour depends on clear weather; cancellations are fully refunded if weather is poor.

Starting the Day: Lakeside Breakfast at Gran Hotel Potrerillos

Your day begins early, around 8:30 AM, with pickup arrangements communicated via WhatsApp, which helps streamline the morning. The first stop is at the Gran Hotel Potrerillos, a place with a storied past dating back to 1940. This Provincial Heritage Site offers more than just history—it provides a beautiful lakeside setting perfect for a substantial breakfast.

Imagine sitting on a terrace with views of the still, blue water and towering mountains beyond. The breakfast, included in your tour, is hearty enough to fuel the adventures ahead. Many travelers comment on how this breakfast is “unbeatable” and a highlight of the day, setting a relaxed yet energized tone for the day.

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Rafting on the Mendoza River: An Adrenaline Boost

Next, it’s time for rafting—a favorite part of this tour. The Mendoza River, with its varying rapids and stunning mountain backdrop, guarantees excitement. From reviews, we know that participants find this experience “exhilarating,” and it’s suitable for most travelers, provided they’re comfortable with basic water activity.

The rafting takes place at the Argentina Rafting base, where safety measures and gear are provided. The guides are experienced and friendly, making sure everyone feels confident—even if it’s your first time hitting the rapids.

Besides the adrenaline, the views are spectacular—crystal-clear water winding through rugged peaks. We loved the way the mountain scenery heightens the sense of adventure, turning an ordinary white-water trip into a memorable journey through nature’s grandeur.

Refueling with an Argentine Asado

After your rafting adventure, you’ll arrive at the base for a traditional Argentine asado. This involves more than just a barbecue—it’s a celebration of regional flavors. You’ll be treated to a relaxed mountain vibe with regional dishes, soda, and a chance to unwind and share stories.

Guests describe the lunch as “epic,” with the regional flavors shining through. The asado includes soda and pop, though alcoholic beverages are not included, so if you wish for wine or beer, you’ll need to bring or purchase it separately. The setting provides a casual, sociable atmosphere—perfect for sharing a meal after some high-energy activity.

Who’s This Tour Best For?

This experience suits adventure lovers who don’t mind getting a little wet and are eager to try rafting. It also appeals to foodies interested in tasting authentic Argentine cuisine in a scenic setting. Small group sizes ensure a more personal feel, which many guests appreciate for their comfort and flexibility.

If you’re traveling to Mendoza wanting a balanced day of nature, adventure, and regional cuisine, this tour offers a well-rounded way to spend your time.

The Scenic Beauty

Starting at the Gran Hotel Potrerillos, the views are the first thing that capture our attention. This historic hotel, set on the lake’s edge, offers a peaceful yet majestic landscape that frames your entire morning. It’s a perfect spot for breakfast, with a laid-back atmosphere that contrasts the excitement ahead.

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The Adrenaline of Rafting

The rafting experience on the Mendoza River is what makes this tour stand out. The rapids are described as exhilarating, yet safe—making it suitable for most travelers. The guides’ professionalism ensures safety without sacrificing fun. You’ll love the contrast of the mountain scenery with the rush of water beneath you, turning a simple outdoor activity into a memorable highlight.

Authentic Argentine Cuisine

The asado lunch is more than just a meal; it’s an immersion into local culture. Many reviews praise the regional flavors and the relaxed mountain environment. It’s a chance to unwind, share stories, and enjoy a true taste of Argentina. Given the inclusion of soda and the option to bring your own alcohol, it offers good value for the price.

Practical Aspects and Small Group Benefits

The pickup and communication via WhatsApp make logistics straightforward and stress-free. With only up to 10 travelers, you’ll find the pace relaxed and the interactions more personal. This small-group format enhances the overall experience, allowing guides to cater more closely to your interests.

The duration of about 8.5 hours** is just right—long enough to savor each part without feeling rushed. The return around 6 PM gives you plenty of time to relax afterward or explore Mendoza further.

Considerations and Tips

While the experience is largely positive, travelers should note that destinations and guides might vary, which could slightly change the experience. Also, the tour is weather-dependent—bad weather can lead to cancellations, but full refunds are available if that happens.

If you’re sensitive to water or have mobility issues, rafting might not be ideal. However, most participants find the activity manageable and enjoyable.

This adventure is perfect for those who want a full day of outdoor activities combined with a taste of regional culture. It’s suited for adventure-seekers, foodies, and nature lovers alike. The small group size and personalized touches make it a good choice for travelers looking for an authentic, intimate experience.

Travelers who enjoy scenic vistas, adrenaline, and regional flavors will find this tour hits the mark. Plus, the inclusion of a traditional asado lunch in a mountain setting makes it a memorable way to connect with local Argentine traditions.

This Mendoza tour offers a well-balanced mix of scenery, adventure, and regional cuisine. Starting with a lakeside breakfast at a historic hotel, followed by the thrill of river rafting, and ending with a hearty Argentine asado, it captures the essence of Mendoza in a single day. The small group size ensures a relaxed, personalized experience, while the professional guides keep safety and fun front and center.

If you’re craving adventure combined with authentic flavors and stunning mountain scenery, this tour delivers. It’s especially suitable for travelers who appreciate small-group experiences and are eager to try something more active during their Mendoza stay.

Is pickup included in this tour?
Yes, pickup is offered, and you’ll receive the exact time via WhatsApp, making planning straightforward.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours and 30 minutes, from around 8:30 AM to about 6 PM, including travel, activities, and lunch.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes breakfast, raft-guided river adventure, lunch featuring Argentine asado, and soda or pop. Alcoholic beverages are not included.

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

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 10 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Is this tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
Most travelers can participate; however, rafting involves water and physical activity, so non-swimmers or very young children should check with the provider. The guide will ensure safety measures are in place.

This adventure in Mendoza offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, adrenaline, and regional flavors—perfect for those eager to experience the mountains, rivers, and cuisine that make Mendoza unique.