DISCOVER THE NATURAL BEAUTY OF VILLAVICENCIO AND THE MENDOZA FOOTHILLS ON A JOURNEY ALONG ROUTE 52
VILLAVICENCIO NATURE RESERVE AND ROUTE 52 TOUR – ONE DAY
PRICE
175 USD
SEASON
All year
DURATION
9 hours
DIFFICULTY
Low
The adventure begins as we leave Mendoza city to travel the full length of Provincial Route 52 — a historic road once used by General San Martín and the Army of the Andes during their liberation campaign.
As we progress, we’ll immerse ourselves in the magic and beauty of the foothills and the Villavicencio Nature Reserve, home to an incredible diversity of flora and fauna: guanacos, foxes, birds, and condors.
We’ll pass by the iconic Villavicencio Hotel and continue ascending to the highest point — Cruz de Paramillos — along the famous road of 365 winding curves, featuring dramatic cliffs and breathtaking views.
Along the way, we’ll also explore the archaeological heritage of the ancient Paramillos mines, considered Argentina’s first mining site for lead, silver, and zinc. Here, you’ll have the option to enjoy a 45-minute walk.
The tour concludes with a traditional Argentine asado, accompanied by wine and dessert in the town of Uspallata.
HIGHLIGHTS
Discover the beauty of the Villavicencio Nature Reserve, the iconic hotel, and stunning mountain views.
Travel along Route 52, the historic road that connected Mendoza with Chile for over 300 years, crossing the entire foothills.
Visit an ancient mining site, the first major mining project in Argentina’s history.
The perfect finale: enjoy a traditional Argentine asado paired with Mendoza wine — an experience you can’t miss.
WHY DESTINO MONTAÑA
At Destino Montaña, we believe that every great journey begins with passion.
As professional guides with over 10 years of experience, we have explored the Andes in depth — and now we want to share its magic with you.
Our training, dedication, and love for the mountains ensure a safe, personalized, and unforgettable experience.
Beyond the landscapes and the routes, what sets us apart is the human connection we build on every journey: trust, warmth, and a spirit of true adventure.
OUR RECOMMENDATION
This experience is perfect if you’re looking for a different kind of tour — connected with the mountains and far from mass tourism.
Since we travel entirely by vehicle, no previous mountain experience or high fitness level is required.
Additionally, we’ll visit an abandoned mine, where you’ll have the option to enjoy a 45-minute walk with no technical difficulty.
- 8:30 a.m. Pick-up from your accommodation and start of the adventure along Route 52.
- 9:30 a.m. Scenic drive past the iconic Villavicencio Hotel, surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes.
- 11:00 a.m. Stop at the Balcón Viewpoint and Cruz de Paramillos for breathtaking panoramic views.
- 12:00 p.m. Visit to the historic Paramillos Mines and optional 45-minute walk through the ruins.
- 1:30 p.m. Traditional Argentine asado lunch in Uspallata, paired with local wine.
- 5:00 p.m. Arrival back in Mendoza city.
*Approximate times
- Available all year round
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Professional tourism guide
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Small groups of up to 4 people
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Transportation from/to downtown Mendoza, within a 15 km range
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Food throughout the activity (breakfast and snack)
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Lunch: appetizer, barbecue with sides, wine, and dessert
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Entrance to Villavicencio Hotel (subject to availability)
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Personal accident insurance
NOT INCLUDED
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Additional meals
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Pick-up outside the 15 km range from downtown Mendoza
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Pick-up from Valle de Uco
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Other services not mentioned
IMPORTANT
LIMITED SPOTS FOR AN UNLIMITED EXPERIENCE
We work with small groups to make every experience truly unique.
Places fill up quickly — don’t miss the chance to live your dream journey in the Andes.
Book now and start writing your own story among the mountains.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is it suitable for everyone?
Yes. This is a tour conducted entirely by vehicle, except for an optional 45-minute walk at the Paramillos Mines, with no technical difficulty.
What food is included?
We include a cereal bar and bottled water for any time during the activity.
Breakfast includes coffee and an artisan alfajor.
Lunch includes an appetizer (empanadas), a main course (barbecue with sides), dessert, a soft drink, and wine.
Can you accommodate vegetarian meals or dietary restrictions?
Of course! Just let us know when you book.
What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing, warm layers, and comfortable shoes for walking.
Sunglasses (recommended) and gloves are also suggested.
You should also bring sunscreen, bottled water, and personal identification (required). You can download the detailed gear list here.
Where do you offer pick-up?
We offer pick-up from downtown Mendoza and anywhere within a 15 km radius.
Pick-up from Valle de Uco or locations beyond that range is not included.
¿Siempre se ingresa al Hotel?
No siempre está permitido el ingreso al hotel, ya que el mismo no abre todos los días de la semana. En caso que esto sea un requisito excluyente para contratar el tour, por favor avisanos.
Is entrance to the Hotel always guaranteed?
Not always. Access to the hotel is not available every day, as it doesn’t open daily.
If visiting the hotel is essential for you, please let us know in advance.
Can the tour be canceled due to bad weather?
Yes. Good weather is required for this tour due to the road conditions.
If there is a confirmed forecast of bad weather, the tour will be canceled.
Although we use multiple forecasts and do our best to anticipate conditions, mountain weather is highly unpredictable.
We kindly ask for your understanding if any contingency arises beyond our control.
How many people are on the tour?
We try to organize private tours whenever possible, but you might share the tour with up to 2 additional guests.
Will we visit the best restaurants?
Throughout the tour, we’ll be in remote areas far from the typical gastronomic spots of Mendoza city.
Within the possibilities the region offers, we choose the best available restaurants, but it’s important not to compare them to the options available in the city.
Are there bathrooms along the route?
Since the route crosses mountain terrain, facilities are limited.
At the stops, restrooms are rustic, and there won’t be many comfortable places available for restroom breaks.
What is your cancellation policy?
Our policy is flexible: if you cancel up to 48 hours before the activity, we’ll refund 100% of your payment.
If you cancel between 48 and 24 hours before, we’ll refund 50%.
After that, unfortunately, no refunds can be made.