Mendoza, a journey through mountains, wine, and history
More than a destination, an experience

Mendoza, a journey through mountains, wine, and history

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Villavicencio

Alta Montaña

Villavicencio Natural Reserve, at the foothills of the Andes, is a must-visit destination. Its iconic hotel, lush vegetation, and breathtaking mountain scenery make it truly special. A place rich in history and natural beauty, waiting to be explored.

Villavicencio Natural Reserve is one of Mendoza’s most iconic landscapes. Located along Route 52, this route leads to Uspallata and passes through historical and natural landmarks, including ancient mines and the fossilized araucaria forest discovered by Darwin.

Situated at 1750 meters above sea level, the reserve is home to diverse wildlife, including guanacos, condors, foxes, and pumas, along with a unique mix of Andean and arid mountain vegetation. Its mineral-rich waters have been renowned for over a century.

Visiting the reserve and continuing along Route 52 is highly recommended to explore its natural and historical richness. Around the historic hotel, various activities are available, so checking official sources for updated information is advisable.

Key points of interest include:

  • Historic Villavicencio Hotel: Opened in 1940 and closed in 1978, it remains a symbol of the area.
  • Canota Monument: Marks the spot where the Army of the Andes split to strategically cross the mountains and surprise the Spanish Empire.
  • Villavicencio Chapel: Built in 1942 to serve visitors who gathered for religious services.
  • Scenic Lookouts: Along Route 52, these viewpoints offer breathtaking views of the mountainous paradise.


Nature lovers can enjoy hiking trails, birdwatching, and stunning photography spots. Checking road conditions before traveling is recommended, as access may be affected by weather.

Services and Activities
  • Restaurant
  • Coffee Shop
  • Birdwatching
Characteristics
  • Foundation: 1940
  • Emergency number: 911
  • An admission ticket is required to enter the hotel.
  • The ticket grants access to picnic areas and restrooms.
  • Guided talks about the site’s history and the reserve are included.
  • Drive carefully on Route 52.
Sports you can do
  • MTB
  • Trekking
  • Arborism
  • Zipline

Interest points locations

Explore what lies beyond: sites, corners, and attractions that make this place even more special.

Villavicencio Chapel
Villavicencio Chapel
Historic Villavicencio Hotel
Historic Villavicencio Hotel
'Canota' Monument
'Canota' Monument
Villavicencio Visitors Center
Villavicencio Visitors Center
Scenic overlook A
Scenic overlook A
Scenic overlook B
Scenic overlook B
Tunduqueral Hill
Tunduqueral Hill
"La ventana" lookout
"La ventana" lookout
Villavicencio

History

This area played a crucial role in the fight for independence. By 1650, it had gained importance for livestock and mining. In early 1817, part of the Army of the Andes marched through this region on their historic journey to liberate Chile from Spanish rule. Decades later, in 1891, it ceased to be the main route to Chile. In 1940, a luxurious hotel was built, closing in 1978 but remaining an iconic landmark. In 2000, the Villavicencio Nature Reserve was established, and since 2015, the Villavicencio Foundation has been restoring the site, a project that continues today.

Unique Corners

Explore landscapes, adventures, and unique experiences in every corner.

Potrerillos

Potrerillos

Alta Montaña
Potrerillos

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Excursions

Each tour in Mendoza is a new way to live the adventure: mountains, vineyards, and experiences that will lead you to discover the best of the province.

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Cascada El Salto

© Andrés Ríos

Cascada El Salto
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"El Salto" Waterfall

Hiking to El Salto Waterfall in Potrerillos is an unforgettable adventure. The trail is accessible and winds through breathtaking landscapes with stunning mountain views. Along the way, you may spot native wildlife. A perfect experience for those seeking nature, tranquility, and a deep connection with the Andes.

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Laguna de Horcones

© Florian Amon Clement

Laguna de Horcones
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Horcones Lagoon

Enjoy an easy to moderate hike in Aconcagua Park, surrounded by stunning landscapes: the vivid Horcones Lagoon, the glaciers on Aconcagua’s South Face, and unforgettable panoramic views from the viewpoint.

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Activities

Experience Mendoza to the fullest with its wide range of activities: culture, nature, and fun come together to make every visit an unforgettable experience.

Museo Las Bóvedas de Uspallata
Museo Las Bóvedas de Uspallata
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Discover Las Bóvedas of Uspallata, an 18th-century historical site that preserves Mendoza’s mining and colonial heritage. A small museum in the Andes where old adobe and stone buildings tell the story of the Jesuits, the Army of the Andes, and the region’s mining tradition.

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Museo Las Bóvedas de Uspallata
Parque de las Artes Marañón

© reservaculturalmaranon

Parque de las Artes Marañón
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Art park Marañón, located in the Uspallata Valley, is a one-of-a-kind open-air museum. Monumental sculptures rise against the backdrop of the Andes, defying wind, sun, and mountain weather. A unique experience blending art, nature, and emotion in a breathtaking landscape.

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