Mendoza, the Land of Malbec:
A Tribute to Nature in its Purest Form

12 Days - 11 Nights

Day 1 - Discovering Mendoza

Reception at Mendoza Airport and transfer to the hotel.

We dedicate half a day to visit the city of Mendoza, famous for its legendary trees, wide sidewalks and its great order and cleanliness. Founded over 400 years ago by the first colonists, this city offers a lot of history and culture. We will visit La Alameda, the historical zone where Pedro del Castillo founded this large city in 1561, where most shops and civic life was concentrated until it disappeared with the 1861 earthquake. The town council was, in the old days, where the Foundational Area Museum is nowadays. There are still remains of what once was the San Francisco church. We continue to the new city, post-earthquake. We visit its principal avenues, the downtown, the Plaza Independencia

(Independence Square), the civic neighbourhood with the Government House, the Law Courts and the General San Martin Park going along the Civit Avenue, entering the park through the Portones (Gates). We can enjoy the beautiful woods in the park, as well as the Rosedal (rose garden) next to the lake and the clubs located in the area. We also meet the Caballitos de Marly (Marly Little Horses, replica of the ones in Paris), the Fuente de los Continentes (the Fountain of the Continents), etc. Then we climb the Cerro de La Gloria (The Glory Mount) where there is a monument to the Ejercito Libertador (the Liberator Army) and very near it, the Greek theatre Frank Romero Day.

Day 2 - Mendoza Wineries & Olive Oil Producer

Breakfast at the hotel. We invite you to discover the rich history of our emblematic Malbec, learning about oenology and enjoying beautiful landscapes in the Maipú region, an area recognized for producing some of the country’s best wines and olive oils. Accompanied by our expert wine guide, we visit two wineries, with options depending on availability such as Vistandes, Cavas de Don Arturo, Domiciano, Florio, Cecchin, Esencia or Viña del Cerno, where tastings of their finest wines are held, the secrets of winemaking are revealed, and the history and tradition of each winery are explored. During the visit the peculiarities of each grape variety, production processes and the evolution of winemaking techniques are highlighted, offering participants a complete and enriching journey through Mendoza’s wine culture. Besides the wineries, we visit a boutique olive oil factory, with options depending on availability such as Pasrai, Laur or Centenario, where a guide explains in detail the production process of Argentine olive oil and it concludes with a tasting of different oils, balsamic vinegar, artisanal pastas and various types of olives, enjoying the characteristic aromas and flavors of the region. This tour offers a comprehensive experience combining learning, authentic tastes, unique landscapes and the opportunity to get up close to the excellence of Mendoza’s gourmet products, enjoying the company of a specialized guide who shares his knowledge and passion for oenology and local gastronomy.

Day 3 - High Mountain Road: Puente del Inca & Aconcagua

Breakfast at the hotel. We begin our exciting High Mountain Road excursion from Mendoza, traveling along the famous National Route No. 7 that takes us through breathtaking landscapes. The first stop, after passing through the Cacheuta village tunnel, is the impressive Potrerillos Dam, nestled in the Andes Mountains, where you'll have the chance to take unforgettable photos with the High Peaks in the background. We continue upstream to reach the mountain town of Uspallata, a place full of history that was home to the Huarpe indigenous people in pre-Hispanic times and marks the transition between the foothills and the front mountain range. Here, we’ll stop for breakfast before continuing our journey through a mountain landscape that includes the charming villages of Picheuta, Polvaredas and Punta de Vacas, and a view of the old Los Penitentes ski resort. The tour continues with one of the most anticipated moments: the visit to Puente del Inca, a natural monument of extraordinary geological beauty recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Further on, we’ll enjoy a stop at the viewpoint of Mount Aconcagua, the highest mountain in the Americas and the second highest in the world after the Himalayas—an ideal place to marvel at the majesty of the Andes. Finally, we reach Las Cuevas, a picturesque village on the border with Chile, built in a distinct European style, where we’ll enjoy a Mendoza-style lunch in a traditional mountain restaurant. If weather conditions permit, the tour ends with a visit to the Cristo Redentor, an emblematic monument symbolizing the union between Argentina and Chile. This tour is a unique experience that invites you to connect with high mountain nature, explore the stunning Puente del Inca, admire the majestic Aconcagua up close, and enjoy unforgettable corners of the Andes Mountains. Not included: cost of breakfast, cost of lunch, and cost of rental clothing or snow boots if necessary during the winter season.

Day 4 - Villavicencio Gorge

Breakfast at the hotel. Early in the morning, we depart from the city of Mendoza towards the Villavicencio Natural Reserve on a unique tour with Andes Truck. This journey allows us to explore this exceptional protected area of 72,000 hectares, a member of the Wildlife Foundation of Argentina, aboard our 4×4 vehicles, enjoying breathtaking panoramic views and the chance to observe local wildlife, including guanacos, foxes, birds, and maybe even a condor in flight. The excursion follows the old international road and part of the winding Caracoles path, reaching the Villavicencio Gorge where spectacular photos can be taken from above. We continue to Hornillos, a vital ecosystem area where groups of guanacos can be observed without leaving the vehicle, and visit the Condor Sanctuary, dedicated to the protection and study of this species sacred to the mountain gods. Afterwards, we stop at the Caracoles Viewpoints to admire impressive views and finish at the emblematic Villavicencio Hotel, where lunch is included. In the afternoon, visitors can enjoy adventure activities at Villavicencio Park. Throughout the tour, Andes Trucks provide access to protected and inaccessible places for other vehicles, combining the adrenaline of navigating winding roads with the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, sun, and the beauty of the foothills. The tour includes lunch; it does not include the entrance ticket to the Villavicencio Reserve.

Day 5 - Cacheuta Hot Springs: Relax in Thermal Waters

Only 38 kilometers from the city of Mendoza, the Cacheuta Hot Springs invite you to live a unique experience of relaxation and fun in an incomparable natural setting. Located on the banks of the Mendoza River and surrounded by the imposing Andes Mountain Range, the Cacheuta Thermal Water Park combines wellness, nature, and entertainment for all ages. This thermal oasis features a wide variety of pools at different temperatures, ideal for enjoying their therapeutic benefits and revitalizing body and mind. Additionally, it offers an interactive area for children and four exciting water slides, making it the perfect option for families looking to share a special day. The park also has barbecue pits and picnic areas for those who prefer to organize an outdoor meal, as well as a store with everything needed to spend the day worry-free. Those who wish can complete the experience with the varied gastronomic offerings of the restaurants in the Cacheuta Village, just a few steps from the complex. The Thermal Water Park is divided into two levels: the upper level, open year-round, and the lower level, available from spring to Easter, allowing visitors to enjoy its warm waters at any time of the year. The tour includes the admission ticket to the Cacheuta Thermal Water Park. It does not include the cost of lunch or access to the spa at the Termas de Cacheuta Hotel.

Day 6 - Experience in the Cordón del Plata & Uco Valley

Breakfast at the hotel. Discover the breathtaking views of the majestic Cordón del Plata and live a unique experience in the renowned Uco Valley, a region with exceptional climate and soil that has produced elegant and high-quality wines. Our excursion begins by taking Route 40 south through the province and then Route 86 west, heading towards the town of Tupungato. Along the way, the imposing Cordón del Plata unfolds before us, with the Tupungato Volcano (6,820 meters), the highest peak of the Andean massif. Upon entering the Uco Valley, we are amazed by the high-altitude vineyards, located over 1,200 meters above sea level, ideal for growing fruits, potatoes, and vegetables, and home to the main wine producers of Argentina. Here we will visit the prestigious Jean Bousquet Winery for a tasting (not included), before continuing to the Cristo Rey del Valle Monument, a panoramic viewpoint that offers unparalleled views of the area. The tour also takes us to the Historic Apple Tree, an emblematic place where General San Martín rested after his victorious return to the homeland. A monument in his honor stands there, symbolizing the liberation campaign. We conclude the experience with lunch at La Juntada restaurant (not included), enjoying local cuisine before returning to the city of Mendoza. This tour combines history, nature, and enology in one of the province's most outstanding destinations: the Uco Valley.

Day 7 - Atuel River Canyon

Breakfast at the hotel. We set off from San Rafael towards the Cuesta de los Terneros to go to Dique Valle Grande and the Atuel river. We stop at the San Francisco de Asis lookout point to enjoy a terrific sight of the city and the canyon. After several kilometres we enter El Nihuil which is impressive for the depth of its lake. We rest and may have lunch (not included). We set off to the Atuel Canyon, to be trapped by a landscape of pure beauty, typical of the andean ecosystem, due to the erosive action of winds and water creating natural sculptures becoming awesome landforms, fanciful shapes of mother nature such as Museo de Cera (Wax Museum), el Lagarto (the Alligator), Los Monstruos (the Monsters), Los Jardines Colgantes (The Hanging Gardens) or La Ciudad Encantada (The Haunted City), etc. The canyon is formed by the Atuel river, Valle Grande Reservoir and El Nihuil. We make a short

walk along the canyon to arrive at the Valle Grande. The ones who want adventure tourism, can enjoy rafting, rappel or a boat voyage (all these activities must be booked at destination).

Day 8 - Los Reyunos: Adventure and Dreamlike Landscapes

Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to San Rafael. We leave San Rafael city, before the excursion to The Reyunos we visit a winery which dedicates not only to high quality wine manufacturing but also champagne. Then we take the Christ roundabout to reach the Historical Fortress and the first chapel in the zone, then we visit the Galileo Vitali, The Tigre y The Reyunos dams. The Reyunos dam is 35 km away, it is a 740 hectares lake, where minnows are sown and excellent for trout and silverside fishing. It is the first pump central in South America, with a less energy consumption when its turbines spin to give back the accumulated water to the lake. It was finished at the beginning of the 80s, it is fed from the Diamante river and was made on the canyon with the same name.

Day 9 - Wine Roads in San Rafael

Mendoza is recognized as one of the world’s wine capitals, and when visiting, it is a must to discover up close the production and elaboration process that brings our wines to life. San Rafael, as a department of Mendoza, is one of the few regions in the country proud to have the Controlled Designation of Origin (DOC), a distinctive seal that grants identity and guarantees the highest quality of its wines. On this excursion, we head to some of the best wineries in the department, selected according to the schedule and availability of the day, where we are welcomed to tour their facilities and uncover the secrets of local winemaking. Accompanied by our guide, we take a tour that includes visits to 3 emblematic wineries, including Murville, Camargo, Garbín, Iaccarini, and Jean Rivier. During the tour, we learn in detail about the region’s winemaking tradition and the wine production process, from the vine to the glass, ending each visit with a tasting that invites us to experience unique aromas, flavors, and sensations. This experience not only brings us closer to Mendoza’s wine culture but also allows us to appreciate the dedication and work that make San Rafael a land of excellent wines. The tour includes entrance tickets, visits, and tastings at wineries. Lunch is not included.

Optional: Cajón Grande Hot Springs: An Unforgettable Experience in the Andean Mountains

We depart from the city of Malargüe with enthusiasm, traveling the legendary Route 40 southward. As we advance, the scenery transforms: we leave behind the plains and gradually enter the majesty of the Andean mountain range. We pass by Bardas Blancas and continue along International Route 145, known as Paso Pehuenche—a road with stunning views that offers unforgettable vistas at every turn. Eventually, we arrive at the access road leading to Cajón Grande, a hidden and enchanting valley that holds one of the area’s most striking natural treasures: the Termas del Cajón (the hot springs of the gorge). Amid the mountains, we discover natural open‑air thermal pools where we can relax, enjoy their healing properties, and connect with nature in its fullest expression. The environment is simply spectacular: towering mountains, open skies, and absolute silence, interrupted only by the sound of the wind and running water. The area includes a campground with basic services and a small restaurant where we have the opportunity to sample typical dishes such as trout and Malargüe goat, all in a rustic, authentic setting. Throughout the day, we are accompanied by a professional guide who provides valuable information and helps us better understand the history, geography, and culture of the region. After enjoying the place and taking ample time to rest and explore, we start our return via the same route, allowing us to appreciate the Andean landscapes again from another perspective and close the day with the feeling of having lived a unique experience. We recommend bringing warm clothing and appropriate footwear for walking, as well as water, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and an extra pair of socks. If you plan to enjoy the thermal pools, it is essential to bring a swimsuit and towel. We also suggest carrying cash, as there is no signal or electronic payment methods in the area. The excursion includes a professional guide throughout the route, pick‑up and drop‑off from the city of Malargüe, and free time in the valley for activities and relaxation. It does not include the entrance fee to the thermal pools nor meals and drinks.

Day 10 - La Payunia: Landscape from Another Planet

Breakfast at the hotel. We depart from Malargüe towards the legendary La Payunia Nature Reserve, a place where geology, native wildlife, and imposing volcanic landscapes combine to offer us an unforgettable experience. Following Route 40 south and then RP 186, we enjoy panoramic views of the majestic Malacara Volcano and the DS3 antenna as we enter this unique territory. Our first stop is at a traditional herder’s post, where Doña Matilde and Humberto Sagal welcome us with a delicious homemade breakfast to prepare us for the adventure. Along the way, we explore the native fauna, spotting guanacos, rheas, armadillos, and various birds that inhabit the reserve. We then arrive at the Volcanoes Viewpoint, an ideal spot to learn about volcanism and the geological history of the region, before continuing to the Fortunoso oil field, where we access the tourist area of the reserve. There, we visit Pampas Negras, La Herradura Volcano, the Pyroclastic Bomb Field, Los Colores, and the Wax Museum, also enjoying lunch at Real del Molle. On the return, we take a short and exciting walk to the breached crater of El Morado Volcano and end the day at the impressive basalt rock canyon of the Río Grande, known as “La Pasarela.” Finally, we return to Malargüe with unforgettable memories of a day full of nature, extraordinary landscapes, and shared adventure.

Day 11 - Cave of the Witches & Manqui Malal Waterfall

Breakfast at the hotel. We head 77 km from Malargüe to live a unique experience in the impressive Caverna de las Brujas, located on Moncol Hill at 1830 meters above sea level. This stunning natural spectacle invites us to enter an underground world full of mysteries, where geological formations sculpted by nature over millennia amaze us at every step. With a flashlight in hand, we walk through dark corridors and rooms such as “La Virgen” and “Los Encuentros,” where legends and the enigmatic atmosphere combine to create an unforgettable experience. After exploring the cave, we continue our journey to the Manqui Malal Waterfall, a natural environment ideal for relaxing and connecting with nature, enjoying the trails and contemplating unique landscapes. Additionally, we have free time to savor a delicious regional lunch at the local restaurant, surrounded by a privileged setting. This excursion is perfect for those seeking a different and exciting experience, combining adventure, history, and nature all in one day. The tour does not include entrance tickets or lunch costs.

Day 12 - San Rafael - Mendoza

Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to the San Rafael City Airport, Mendoza. End of our services.

Excursion Order Due to some excursions not operating daily, the order of activities will depend on the days of the week the trip to Mendoza takes place, and it may change according to the scheduled dates.