Secrets Of The Andes

DAY 1: MENDOZA (D).

Arrival into Mendoza and transfer to your hotel. Afternoon is horse-riding taking in the stunning scenery of the area. Following the activity enjoy a Creole dinner accompanied by Mendoza wine. Return to the hotel in the evening.

DAY 2: MENDOZA - SAN RAFAEL (B, L, D).

Depart on Route 40 towards the south, passing through the wine regions of Tunuyan and San Carlos.  On the way stop for lunch at the Piedra infinita winery, awarded as one of the best in the world. Continue to San Rafael and stay in a hotel surrounded by vineyards.

DAY 3: SAN RAFAEL (B, L, D).

Today explore the Atuel Canyon, a true geological marvel millions of years old where the wind and waters of the Atuel River carved different figures. Activities such as mountain biking, condor watching, mountaineering, hiking, and trekking can be done in this area.

DAY 4: SAN RAFAEL - MALARGUE (B, L).

Joining Route 40 from 140 continue to El Sosneado through a provincial route we reach the Sosneado Lagoon, located at 2100 meters above sea level. From here observe Cerro Sosneado, an extinct "volcano" from the Cenozoic Era and one of the highest peaks located in the southern hemisphere. Continue to Malargue City located at the foothills of the mountain range.

DAY 5: MALARGUE (B, L).

Today explore the Payunia Reserve, a vast volcanic region located at the foothills of the Mendoza mountain range, which geology makes it unique in the world. La Payunia is an area that had an intense volcanic activity in years gone by. Travelling on the 4x4, discover Malacara Volcano, Campo de Bombas Pyroclasticas, Pampas Negras, Horseshoe Volcano and El Morado Volcano where you walk to its aportillado crater. The Payunia area is not only relevant from a vulcanologist point of view but also for the conservation of the flora and fauna of the place. Due to its importance, it was declared World Heritage Site by the UNESCO.

DAY 6: MALARGUE (B, L).

Continue your adventure through two attractions of the area: the Malacara Volcano, which owes its name to a type of horse with a spot on its forehead, named this way by the country people, and the Llancanelo lagoon. Arriving at the volcanos base start a 2-hours walk of moderate pace, to the bowls of this natural wonder. Following a tour of two of its gullies, head to a viewpoint from where you will see the Llancanelo lagoon, the impressive Andes Mountains and the largest concentration of volcanoes in the world. The afternoon visit is to the Llancanelo Lagoon, a Ramsar wetland, considered important due to its biological richness and because it serves as a refuge for a significant number of birds. Subject to weather conditions visit the "Trapal Volcano". Take in the impressive panoramic view of the Reserve from the top.

DAY 7: MALARGUE - VALLE DE UCO (B, D).

Taking Route 40 northwards today reach the area of Valle de Uco, one of the most important wine producing areas of the province. Your overnight stay will be at a wine lodge in a luxury dome (glamping) where you can enjoy a stay with all the comfort, and within walking distance of the main lodge.

DAY 8: VALLE DE UCO (B, D).

Day at leisure to enjoy the wine lodge, visiting the winery to taste an excellent variety of wines from the region. Take in the sunset with stunning views of the Andes Mountains with a glass of wine.

DAY 9: VALLE DE UCO - MENDOZA (B).

Morning at leisure until time of departure. Depart from Mendoza or extend your trip.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

Accommodation - 8 nights in minimum 3-star hotels.

Meals - As specified in the itinerary (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner).

Luggage - One normal suitcase and one handbag per person included for hotel porterage.

Transfers - all airport transfers from arrival on Day 1 to final day (assuming specific group flights booked).

Tours (with local bilingual English-speaking guides) - Mendoza: Horse-ridding. San Rafael: Atuel Canyon. Malargue: Payunia Reserve, Malacara Volcano & Llancanelo Lagoon.

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED

International flights and airport taxes to join the tour.

Tips for local guides / drivers.

Tickets for National Parks, Natural Reserves and Museums.

Early Check-in / Late Check-out.

Travel Insurance.

NOTES

• Access to the Morado Volcano is subject to weather conditions.

• Extra night recommend if you wish to explore the high mountain area in Mendoza or the vineyards of Lujan and Maipu.

• Tour prices are based on shared group services (not private services).

• Passport copies required 30 days prior to arrival for all passengers.