Villavicencio Reserve in Mendoza: nature, history and adventure

Details

Map

Website

Instagram

Facebook

YouTube

Telephone

E-Mail

Home/Places/Villavicencio

Can we improve something?

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.

Sports you can do

MTB
Trekking
Arborism
Zipline

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.

Interest points locations

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

Villavicencio Chapel

Historic Villavicencio Hotel

'Canota' Monument

Villavicencio Visitors Center

Scenic overlook A

Scenic overlook B

Tunduqueral Hill

"La ventana" lookout

Ghost Town of Paramillos

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.

Parque Civico

Gran Mendoza

Civic Park

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.

Experiences

Every experience in Mendoza offers a new way to embrace adventure, with mountains, vineyards, and unforgettable experiences that reveal the best of the province.

Avion caido en Potrerillos

Alta Montaña Trekking activities

Trekking to the crashed plane in Potrerillos

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.

Cascada El Salto

Alta Montaña Trekking activities

"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.

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

Alta Montaña Museums

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.

Parque de las Artes Marañón