Mendoza, a journey through mountains, wine, and history

Potrerillos

Potrerillos

To the west of Mendoza City lies the stunning Potrerillos Dam, a destination that blends charming villages, a peaceful lake, and majestic mountains. It's the perfect spot for thrilling mountain sports or simply unwinding in its serene beauty.

Potrerillos captivates with its vast natural landscapes, fresh air, and unmatched tranquility. Its charming villages feature weekend homes, cozy rental cabins, camping spots, and numerous points of interest waiting to be discovered.

This destination is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering mountain sports like trekking, rappelling, and mountain biking, as well as water sports such as kayaking, windsurfing, kitesurfing, and sailing.

A highlight is the village of “El Salto,” an old settlement with tree-lined streets and weekend homes. Here, you can visit the “Cristo del Salto,” perched on a central hill with breathtaking views, or hike to the “El Salto” waterfall nestled in the mountain.

To the south, Vallecitos is home to Mendoza’s oldest ski slope, while Las Vegas offers a peaceful retreat with rental cabins and weekend homes. Following Route 89, the "Paso de la Carrera" takes you to Tupungato along one of the most scenic mountain routes.

The Potrerillos Lake also hides treasures like the sunken forest, where submerged trees emerge depending on the season. To the west, the old Potrerillos railway bridge crosses the Mendoza River, while to the east, the dam and the tunnel to Cacheuta add to the area’s charm. In summer, as water levels recede, the popular “playita” emerges, attracting visitors in search of relaxation.

Services and Activities
  • Restaurants
  • Coffee shops
  • Kayak rentals
  • ATV rental
  • Hotel
  • Cabin Rentals
  • Sailboat rentals
  • Campsites
Characteristics
  • Summer weather: Cool at night
  • Winter weather: Cold with possible snowfall
  • Recommended time: 10AM - 6PM
  • Emergency number: 911
  • Needed time: 9 hours
  • Name in English: Potrerillos
Sports you can do
  • Trekking
  • Kayaking
  • MTB
  • Running
  • Fishing

Interest points locations

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

Town "El Salto"
Town "El Salto"
Christ over "El Salto"
Christ over "El Salto"
Town "Las Vegas"
Town "Las Vegas"
Town "Valle del Sol"
Town "Valle del Sol"
Sunken Forest
Sunken Forest
Bridge "Rio Blanco"
Bridge "Rio Blanco"
Parador N1
Parador N1
Potrerillos Portal
Potrerillos Portal
Lookout "el Plata"
Lookout "el Plata"

Unique Corners

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

Plazas principales

Plazas principales

Gran Mendoza
Main Squares

In the heart of Mendoza, five main squares were designed over 160 years ago as safe havens for citizens in the event of an earthquake. These historic spaces offer a peaceful retreat, perfect for enjoying their beauty and charm.

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.

Avion caido en Potrerillos
Avion caido en Potrerillos
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.

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Avion caido en Potrerillos
Cascada El Salto

© Andrés Ríos

Cascada El Salto
"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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Cascada El Salto
Trekking Laguna de Horcones

© Florian Amon Clement

Trekking Laguna de Horcones
Trekking Laguna de Horcones

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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Trekking Laguna 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.

Parque de las Artes Marañón

© reservaculturalmaranon

Parque de las Artes Marañón
Art park Marañón

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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Parque de las Artes Marañón