Ranchillos

From Uspallata, take National Route 7 toward Chile. Before crossing the Ranchitos stream, on the right-hand side you'll find an entrance leading to ancient ruins and concrete platforms. This is the recommended spot to park your car and start the hike.

The trail begins next to the ruins, following the Ranchitos stream. After about 700 m you'll need to cross the stream and continue along the left bank, where the path becomes clear again. After a walk of approximately 1 km, beyond a small hill, you'll spot the sign marking the Ranchillos Inca Tambos. The full round trip is 2.8 km and takes about 2 hours. Along the way it's common to see guanacos, horses and condors; snakes may also be present, especially near the ruins, so exercise caution.

The Ranchillos Tambos were part of the Qhapaq Ñan, the Inca road network. These sites functioned not only as lodgings but also as food warehouses, workshops, administrative centers and strategic control points. Ranchillos is notable for its complex planning and architecture and is likely the main Inca administrative center in the area, strategically located where the route turns west to follow the Mendoza River.

Activities

• Easy hike (2.8 km round trip)
• Wildlife watching (guanacos, horses, condors)
• Archaeological and landscape photography

• Ranchitos stream: glacial meltwater stream guiding much of the trail.
• Ranchillos Inca Tambos: archaeological remains evidencing Inca presence at the southern end of the Qhapaq Ñan.