Andes High Mountain Tour: Aconcagua Day Trip from Mendoza
Take a break from the wineries and head into the Andes. On this private full-day tour, you’ll follow the historic road toward Chile through mountain towns and colorful valleys, stand in front of Aconcagua, the highest mountain in the Americas, and enjoy lunch with wine in Uspallata.
Full day, 8:30 am to 6:00 pm · Private tour · Aconcagua Park entrance included · Lunch with wine · From USD 172 per person (minimum 2 guests)
Is This Tour for You?
This is a long, spectacular day on the road. It’s perfect if you love mountain scenery and photography, don’t mind spending a good part of the day in the car, or want to walk in Aconcagua Provincial Park. Aconcagua, at 22,841 feet (6,962 meters), is the highest mountain outside Asia, and seeing it up close has a special pull for travelers and hikers alike.
Prefer a shorter day? See our Potrerillos & Sparkling Wine option below.
The Route
Potrerillos
Leaving Mendoza, the road climbs along the Mendoza River to Potrerillos, a small mountain town with spectacular views over the turquoise Potrerillos reservoir.
Uspallata and the Mountain Towns
The route continues through Uspallata, a green valley surrounded by multicolored hills, and the small towns of Polvaredas, Punta de Vacas and Penitentes.
Puente del Inca
A highlight of the day: a natural stone bridge over the Las Cuevas River, colored by mineral hot springs, and one of the most photographed places in the Andes.
Aconcagua Provincial Park and the Horcones Lagoon
Close to the Chilean border, you’ll enter Aconcagua Provincial Park for unforgettable views of the summit. If you like, take an optional walk of about an hour to an hour and a quarter around the Horcones Lagoon.
Lunch in Uspallata
Lunch with wine at a local restaurant in Uspallata, before a scenic drive back along the Mendoza River. We’re back at your hotel at around 6:00 pm.
What’s Included
- Private transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off
- English-speaking guide (Spanish and Portuguese available)
- Entrance to Aconcagua Provincial Park
- Optional walk at the Horcones Lagoon (about 1 hour)
- Lunch with wine in Uspallata
- Bottled water in the vehicle
Not included: gratuities. We recommend bringing some Argentine pesos in cash.
Tips for the Andes Tour
- Bring warm layers, even in summer. At almost 10,000 feet (3,000 meters), it can be cold and windy.
- Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to do the walk.
- Bring sunscreen and sunglasses. The sun is very strong at altitude.
- Take it easy and drink water. Some people feel the altitude near Aconcagua.
Shorter Option: Potrerillos & Sparkling Wine
Prefer a shorter day, or traveling in winter? Our half-day mountain tour visits Potrerillos and its reservoir, with easy walks for those who want them, and pairs the mountains with wine: a visit to a sparkling wine house such as Cruzat or Chandon, and lunch at the winery, at the hotel in Potrerillos, known for its excellent food, or at a local restaurant. We’re back in Mendoza at around 5:00 pm, with flexible timing at the winery. Available year-round. Ask us on WhatsApp for details.
Andes Tour FAQ
How long is the Andes High Mountain tour?
It’s a full day: we leave at 8:30 am and return at around 6:00 pm. The drive is part of the experience, with constantly changing mountain scenery.
Do I need my passport?
No. The tour stays on the Argentine side of the border.
Can we do this tour in winter?
Yes, but in winter (roughly June to September) the mountain road depends on the weather and can close for snow. If conditions don’t allow it, we’ll suggest the Potrerillos & Sparkling Wine option instead.
Is the walk difficult?
No. The Horcones Lagoon walk is easy, takes about an hour and is optional. Just keep in mind the altitude and walk at a calm pace.
How much does the Andes tour cost?
From USD 172 per person, with a minimum of 2 guests, including park entrance and lunch with wine.
More Private Tours in Mendoza
- Uco Valley Wine Tour, from USD 215 per person
- Luján de Cuyo Wine Tour, from USD 175 per person
- Maipú Wine Tour, from USD 175 per person
- 3-Day Mendoza Wine Escape, from USD 565 per person
Ready to See Aconcagua?
Check availability and book online, or write to us with your dates.