Atuel Canyon and San Rafael Trip
Description
Embark on an exploration of the Atuel Canyon and San Rafael, where the breathtaking landscapes of the Argentine province of Mendoza await.
Atuel Canyon and Valle Grande Adventure
Your journey begins with a pickup from your hotel in Mendoza at the scheduled time, followed by a drive southward through the province.
After a scenic three-hour trip covering 235 kilometers (146 miles) through the Uco Valley, we'll reach the vibrant town of San Rafael. Once we explore the city, our next stop is the renowned Valle Grande reservoir, a vast lake nourished by the Atuel River. Here, enjoy some leisure time to capture photographs, wander along the lake shore, or indulge in a meal at your convenience. You can also choose to experience a raft ride on the Atuel River or a catamaran journey across the Valle Grande Dam Lake.
Our adventure continues as we venture into the Atuel Canyon. Witness how the relentless power of water and wind has sculpted magnificent rock formations such as El Lagarto, Los Viejos, Los Monstruos, the Enchanted City, El Mendigo, and Los Jardines Colgantes.
Next, we'll visit the El Nihuil Dam, an impressive structure that creates two artificial lakes utilized for energy generation, leaving visitors in awe of its magnitude!
To conclude our day, we'll make our way back to Mendoza, covering the distance of 285 kilometers (177 miles) in approximately 3.5 hours. Expect to return to your hotel between 14 to 16 hours after departure.
Pickup Information
The excursion includes hotel pickup in central Mendoza. Should your accommodation be over 2 kilometers from the downtown area, your guide will reach out to arrange a suitable meeting point.
Itinerary Changes
Please be aware that, due to a landslide affecting a section of the Atuel Canyon road, there will be adjustments to the itinerary until about July. While time spent in this area may be reduced, to make up for this alteration, we will take you to the striking Los Reyunos Dam, supplied by the Diamante River and encompassing a 750-hectare (1,853 acres) lake.
What's included
- Hotel pick up and drop off.
- Transport by car, minibus, or bus, depending on the size of the group.
- English speaking guide.
What's not included
- Food and drink.
Cancellation policy
Cancellazione gratuita fino a 24 ore prima (local time)
Accessibility
Not wheelchair accessible.
Important information
The day before the activity, the local provider will contact you to arrange a pickup time at the hotel. As such, please check your email and also your WhatsApp. If you prefer, you can also contact the provider to check this information the night before. We recommend you to be at the hotel reception 10 minutes in advance of the indicated time.
If you're staying more than 2 kilometers from the city center in Mendoza, the guide will get in touch with you to arrange a meeting point in downtown Mendoza.
Please get in touch with the local provider via WhatsApp 0261 5862651-2611 to reconfirm the pickup place and time.
This excursion is subject to weather and road conditions.
You should bring comfortable clothes and shoes, a light coat and cash (Argentine pesos) for breakfast and lunch (not included). In winter we suggest wearing long pants and closed shoes, a warm jacket, gloves, and a hat. You must carry your personal documentation (passport).
There are stops during the tour to go to the bathroom. The vehicle does not have bathroom facilities.
Itinerary Adjustments
Please note that due to a landslide on part of the Atuel Canyon road, the itinerary will be modified until approximately July. We'll spend less time here, but, to compensate for this inconvenience, we'll take you to see the impressive Los Reyunos Dam, which is fed by the Diamante River and forms a 750-hectare (1,853 acres) lake.
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