Vallecitos Trekking – Full day in the Andes from Mendoza

A Full Day in the Argentine Andes: Vallecitos Trekking from Mendoza

If you’re looking to escape the city and breathe in some of the most spectacular mountain scenery Argentina has to offer, this Vallecitos Trekking tour is a fantastic choice. For around $250 per person, you spend roughly 10.5 hours exploring the rugged beauty of the Andes, starting with hotel pickup from Mendoza and ending back at your accommodation. Your adventure takes you from the vineyards and city streets into wild, windswept landscapes filled with snow-capped peaks, shimmering lakes, and rocky ravines.

What we love most about this experience is how it balances moderate physical activity with plenty of opportunities to soak in the scenery. The 5-6 hours of hiking are broken up with scenic stops and a delicious boxed lunch overlooking the valley—think mountain views and fresh air that energize your spirit. Plus, all necessary equipment and a professional guide are included, making it accessible for most travelers comfortable with a moderate trek.

One potential consideration is the duration—it’s a full day, so it demands good footwear, layered clothing, and a bit of physical stamina. But if you’re a lover of outdoor adventures, the rewards far outweigh the effort.

This tour is ideal for those who appreciate natural beauty, outdoor activity, and want a guided experience that combines comfort with adventure. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want a memorable day outside Mendoza without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Key Points

• Spectacular scenery: Snow-capped peaks, lakes, and rugged valleys.
• All-inclusive comfort: Equipment, guide, lunch, and transport are provided.
• Moderate hike: Suitable for those with a moderate fitness level, with 5-6 hours of walking.
• Expert guides: Guides speak both English and Spanish and enhance the experience with their local knowledge.
• Scenic stop at Potrerillos Lake: A perfect photo opportunity of the 12 km long, 3 km wide man-made lake.
• Flexible cancellation: Free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.

Exploring the Andes: What You Can Expect on the Vallecitos Trekking Tour

Starting early in the morning at Rivadavia 234 in Mendoza, the trip kicks off with a comfortable minivan ride through the vineyards and scenic mountain views. The drive itself is part of the charm—think lush orchards giving way to rocky hills and shimmering lakes. You’ll arrive in Potrerillos, a picturesque town famous for its expansive lake and mountain scenery.

Once there, your guide, who is fluent in both English and Spanish, will equip you with everything needed for the trek. The hike begins along trails that wind through the steep, rocky hills of the Argentine Andes. The views of snow-capped peaks and fluffy clouds hugging the summits make every step memorable. It’s a moderate trek, so don’t expect an adrenaline rush; instead, it’s about steady, enjoyable walking with plenty of breaks for photos and rests.

One of the highlights is the stop at Potrerillos Lake. With its vast, shimmering surface, it’s a dramatic backdrop for photos and a moment to appreciate the scale and grandeur of the mountains. We loved the way the lake’s size and clarity contrasted with the rugged terrain, making it a perfect place to pause and take in the scenery.

Lunch is a boxed meal, thoughtfully prepared and served with fresh fruit and mineral water. It’s a simple but satisfying way to refuel, and many travelers appreciate the attention to detail—especially those who mention that even the lunch exceeded expectations. Keep in mind that if you’re a big eater or want more snacks, bringing extra is a good idea.

The entire trek takes about 5-6 hours of walking, with options to take it at a comfortable pace. The group size is limited to 15 travelers, which helps ensure personalized attention and a more intimate experience.

Returning to Mendoza in the late afternoon, you’ll be filled with a sense of accomplishment and the kind of stories that only come from spending a day in the mountains.

Why This Trek Is a Great Choice for Travelers

This tour is perfect for nature lovers and those eager to see the Andes without committing to a multi-day expedition. The inclusion of all equipment and professional guides makes it accessible, while the scenery—glittering lakes, mountain peaks, rocky ravines—keeps the experience exciting.

It’s particularly praised for the knowledgeable guides—one reviewer highlighted Juan Pablo, who made the day both fun and informative. The guides’ friendly and professional demeanor makes the hike feel both safe and engaging.

We also appreciate the value: for $250, you get a full day outdoors, transport, lunch, and expert guidance—much more than a simple walk in the park. The inclusion of bottled water and equipment helps prevent hassle and extra costs, allowing you to focus on the landscape.

However, remember that this is a moderate physical activity. If you have mobility issues or very limited stamina, this might not be the best fit. Also, since it’s a full-day trip, make sure you’re prepared for an early start and a long day on your feet.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re keen on outdoor adventures and want to see the Argentine Andes with a knowledgeable guide, this tour offers a well-rounded experience. It’s ideal for active travelers who enjoy hiking but prefer a comfortably paced trek.

The tour also suits photographers and nature enthusiasts, as the landscape provides countless opportunities for memorable photos. If you’re traveling with family, note that the minimum age is 12, so it’s suitable for older children and teenagers comfortable with a day of moderate walking.

Finally, those who prefer organized tours that include transportation, gear, and meals will find this experience provides excellent value and convenience—removing the guesswork from your outdoor adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the hike?
The hiking portion lasts about 5-6 hours, with breaks for photos and rest.

What’s included in the price?
All necessary equipment, hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional guide, bottled water, and a boxed lunch are included.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The minimum age is 12 years, making it appropriate for older children and teenagers with a moderate fitness level.

What should I wear?
Layered clothing and hiking shoes are recommended, as mountain weather can change quickly.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start.

How big are the groups?
The tour is limited to 15 travelers for a more personalized experience.

What if I want to bring extra snacks?
The included lunch is enough for most, but bringing additional snacks is a good idea if you have a hearty appetite.

In the end, the Vallecitos Trekking tour from Mendoza offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, scenery, and comfort. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a photographer, or simply eager to see the Andes from a different perspective, this experience will leave you with lasting memories. Prepare your gear, set your camera to landscape mode, and get ready for a day that captures the wild beauty of Argentina’s mountains.