About this experience
Take a 5-hour guided tour to the Villavicencio Natural Reserve, which is known for its beauty and its mineral springs. Home to eagles, condors, pumas, guanacos and ostriches as well as flowering cacti and many other animals and plants, the reserve covers 172,974 acres (70,000 hectares). Tour the foothills of the Andes and visit the Monument of Canota and the hauntingly beautiful old resort spa of Villavicencio, where there will be plenty of time to relax. You’ll have plenty of opportunities and vantage points to take in the splendor of the eye-pleasing natural reserve.
At a glance
- Duration: 5 hr
What is included
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Spanish Professional guide
Not included
- Gratuities
- Food and drinks
- Villavicencio
Itinerary and highlights
The tour starts at 8 AM with us picking you up from your hostel in Mendoza to begin the excursion.
You'll journey through the foothills of the Andes and pause for a while at the Monument of Canota, erected in 1935 to honor General José de San Martín. This region played a pivotal role in San Martín's fights, as it served as the route for the army during the liberation campaigns for Chile and Peru's independence.
Once in the old Villavicencio Thermal Hotel Complex, enjoy the lavish, verdant gardens, visiting the charming chapel on the grounds. The resort, once the stomping grounds for the powerful and wealthy, hasn’t been used in decades, but there’s still plenty of interest here, including natural springs.
Here we will take a walking tour of its gardens and visit the interpretation center.
You'll also have the opportunity to explore the Caracoles viewpoint, nestled amidst the rugged terrain, offering breathtaking vistas of the encompassing mountains and the natural reserve.
After enjoying this morning we will be returning to our hotels in the city.
Meeting and pickup information
- The pick up transfer is only from selected centrally located hotels. If your hotel is outside the geographic area, we will confirm you the closest meeting point. Indicate the name and address of your hotel.
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Spanish — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Tangol
Accessibility and practical details
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- It is recommended that you bring sunblock and wear comfortable clothes and shoes
- During the winter months (June through September), it is recommended that you wear warm clothes and bring a jacket or sweater
- You may bring your own snacks
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Available tour options
- Bilingual Tour: Guided experience in both Spanish and English. Pickup included
- Pickup included
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