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Puente del Inca y Penitentes
Near the Chilean border, this Andean region of Mendoza features stunning landscapes and must-see spots like Puente del Inca, Aconcagua Park, and the Penitentes ski resort. A perfect one-day trip to connect with the majesty of the mountains.
The “Puente del Inca” area combines history, nature, and adventure. The ”Cristo Redentor de los Andes” monument (Christ the Redeemer of the Andes), at 3,854 meters above sea level, symbolizes peace between Argentina and Chile. The Natural Monument “Puente del Inca” (Inca bridge), a unique geological bridge, is protected and can only be viewed from a distance.
Nearby are the ruins of the former Thermal Hotel, destroyed by a landslide in 1965, and the Chapel of Puente del Inca, which miraculously survived. According to an indigenous legend, the bridge was formed by Inca warriors creating a human bridge to heal a sick prince.
During winter, the Los Penitentes ski resort offers snow activities and accommodations.
Name in English: Inca bridge and Penitentes Emergency number: 911
Interest points locations
Explore what lies beyond: sites, corners, and attractions that make this place even more special.
© Alex R. Gulliver
History
This area was once part of the southernmost stretch of the Qhapaq Ñan, the ancient Inca road network. Centuries later, during the independence wars, one of the liberation armies passed through here on its way to Chile. The trail holds the footprints of ancient cultures and echoes of heroic feats, wrapped in legends that still echo through the mountains.
Unique Corners
Explore landscapes, adventures, and unique experiences in every corner.
Parque Civico
It is the second largest park in the City of Mendoza. Within it, there are many impressive government buildings, including the Ángel Bustelo auditorium, the Monument to the Flag of the Army of the Andes, and a variety of ancient vegetation. It’s an ideal place for a walk and to get some fresh air in the city.
Other places in the area Ciudad de Mendoza El Corazón de Mendoza: sus Plazas
Top Excursions Cerro Camello Cerro Dedos y Cerro Manos
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.
This short hike takes you to the site of the airplane crash in Los Potrerillos, located in the foothills of the Andes. It’s ideal for those looking for exercise and mountain walking, offering beautiful views of the surrounding mountain range.
Read more aboutAvion caido en Potrerillos
![Cascada El Salto](https://gotomdz.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/excursion/cascada-"el-salto"/img/excursion_cascada-"el-salto"_1748028952005.avif)
© Andrés Ríos
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.
Read more aboutCascada El Salto
© Florian Amon Clement
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.
Read more aboutLaguna de Horcones
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.
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.
Read more aboutMuseo Las Bóvedas de Uspallata
© reservaculturalmaranon
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.
Read more aboutParque de las Artes Marañón