Sleeping in the Andes highlands is not the same as sleeping with a view of the Andes. In Mendoza’s high mountains, your accommodation becomes part of the experience: staying here means adapting to the rhythm of the weather, the silence of the landscape, and the culture of mountain life. From spa hotels in Potrerillos to family cabins in Uspallata, boutique lodges or glamping with views of Aconcagua, here’s how to choose the best high mountain accommodation in Mendoza based on the kind of traveler you are.
Top High Mountain Hotels In Mendoza
Hotel Potrerillos: Classic Comfort With Reservoir Views
Hotel Potrerillos is one of the region’s most iconic mountain lodges. Located just 70 km from Mendoza city, it offers a perfect mix of comfort, food, and natural surroundings. Rooms are spacious, the on-site restaurant serves regional cuisine, and the setting—right on the Potrerillos Reservoir—is truly stunning.
This is a great choice for those looking to unwind after a day of rafting, hiking, or horseback riding, or for a short getaway close to the city. Average rates start at USD 150 per night for a double room.
View full-day excursion to Potrerillos
Hotel Uspallata: Ideal Base For Rest And Outdoor Exploration
In the heart of Uspallata Valley, 110 km from Mendoza, you’ll find several high mountain hotel options designed for travelers who want to relax without missing out on adventure. Many of these hotels have rustic Andean architecture, simple but cozy rooms, summer pools, and menus featuring local ingredients.
Uspallata is ideally located near major attractions like the Seven Colors Hill, the Aconcagua Provincial Park, and the UNESCO-listed Puente del Inca. Average rates range between USD 90 and USD 130 per night.
El Portillo (Chile): A Snow Destination Near Mendoza
Just across the Andes, Hotel Portillo in Chile is another popular option for travelers exploring Mendoza’s high mountains—especially in winter. Located 180 km from Mendoza city via the Cristo Redentor border crossing, this historic ski resort offers panoramic views of the Laguna del Inca.
With ski lessons, heated pools, gourmet restaurants, and premium services, it’s a European-style alpine experience in South America. Packages start around USD 300 per night with meals and ski passes included.
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Boutique Mountain Lodges Near Mendoza: Nature, Privacy And Comfort
In areas like Las Heras, Cacheuta, or along the road to Punta de Vacas, a growing number of boutique mountain lodges offer exclusivity, personalized service, and immersive nature.
With limited rooms, private guides, wellness experiences, and gourmet food, these lodges are ideal for couples or small groups looking for privacy and meaningful connections with the environment. Nightly rates generally range from USD 180 to 250, depending on season and inclusions.
High Mountain Cabins In Mendoza: Ideal For Families Or Small Groups
The offer of high mountain cabins in Mendoza is perfect for families or groups traveling together. These cabins are typically found in Potrerillos, Uspallata, or Los Árboles, close to hiking trails and scenic roads. They often include full kitchens, fireplaces, BBQ areas, heating, and sometimes swimming pools.
Prices depend on the number of guests and services provided, starting at USD 90 per night. They offer flexibility and independence for those who prefer a self-guided mountain stay.
Estancia San Ignacio: Stay At A Traditional Ranch In The Andes
Located just 70 km from Mendoza, Estancia San Ignacio offers one of the most complete experiences in the highlands. Guests stay in a restored colonial house, enjoy regional meals made with farm-grown ingredients, and take part in horseback rides, fly fishing, guided hikes, or full-day countryside experiences.
This property is one of SAK Wine & Travel‘s exclusive offers, with private transfers and curated itineraries. Rates start at USD 250 per night with full board.
Glamping In Mendoza’s High Mountains: Luxury Under The Stars
Glamping in Mendoza’s highlands means combining the thrill of outdoor living with the comforts of a boutique stay. These accommodations feature luxury tents or domes with heating, private bathrooms, and refined meals.
Perfect for romantic escapes or digital detox retreats, most sites are located between Potrerillos and Las Cuevas. Rates vary from USD 150 to 300 per night, depending on services and exclusivity.
How To Choose The Right High Mountain Accommodation In Mendoza
- Distance from Mendoza city (if you don’t have your own transportation, private transfers can be a safe and comfortable solution)
- Proximity to key attractions or adventure tours
- Type of accommodation: hotel, cabin, lodge, or glamping
- Included services: breakfast, heating, meals, guided activities
- Climate and travel season
- Accessibility and mobile connectivity
- If traveling with children, check for family-friendly features
Top Activities In Mendoza’s High Mountain Region
Mendoza’s highlands are a haven for adventure and outdoor travel. Some of the top experiences with SAK Wine & Travel include:
- Trekking in Aconcagua Park, with trails like Laguna Horcones, Confluencia base camp, or the more demanding hike to Plaza Francia. Experienced trekkers can also summit Cerro Bonete with licensed guides.
- Scenic horseback rides through Uspallata’s valleys and old Andean trade routes, often ending with a picnic or fireside mate.
- Whitewater rafting on the Mendoza River, with rapids ranging from class III to IV.
- Canopy and zipline circuits over Andean forests—great for families and thrill-seekers alike.
- Mountain biking and 4×4 routes through Polvaredas, Punta de Vacas, and Las Cuevas.
- Sailing and windsurfing on Potrerillos Lake—a surprising twist for a mountain setting.
- In winter, snow adventures like snowshoe hikes or sledding in Vallecitos.
All activities are guided by professionals and include high-quality gear for safety and comfort.
Enjoy the best of the Andes in Mendoza
Restaurants In Mendoza’s High Mountains: Where To Eat After A Day Outdoors
Mountain food is part of the journey. In areas like Potrerillos, Cacheuta, and Uspallata, local restaurants offer flavors that reflect the climate, terrain, and culture of the Andes.
In Potrerillos, you’ll find mountain grills, lakeside restaurants, and creative takes on regional dishes. Specialties include trout, roasted meats, homemade pastas, and traditional desserts like flan with dulce de leche or warm tortas fritas.
Cacheuta is known for its hot springs, but its rustic cuisine is also worth the trip: empanadas, stews, soups, and artisanal platters are perfect after a soak.
In Uspallata, Andean influence is stronger. Menus feature lamb, humita, locro, oven-baked pizza, and vegetarian dishes made with quinoa, squash, and local grains.
At higher altitudes like Puente del Inca or Las Cuevas, you’ll find simpler options—family-run diners, cafés, and general stores with homemade bread, local cheese, and Mendocinean wine.
Lodges, glamping sites, and estancias often include full-board meals with gourmet touches by local chefs.
Best Time To Visit Mendoza’s High Mountains
- Summer (December to March): Best for trekking, horseback riding, and scenic drives. Warm and dry.
- Fall (April to May): Milder temperatures, golden foliage, and fewer tourists.
- Winter (June to August): Snow season. Great for ski or snow play in areas like Vallecitos.
- Spring (September to November): Blooming landscapes, ideal for photography, wildlife watching, and peaceful stays.
Sustainable Travel And Protected Areas In Mendoza’s High Mountains
Much of Mendoza’s high mountain region is protected under provincial and national conservation efforts. Notable areas include the Aconcagua Provincial Park, Polvaredas, and Puente del Inca, a natural bridge and UNESCO Natural Monument. There is also an ongoing project to designate Uspallata as a National Park, due to its ecological and archaeological value.
Visitors are encouraged to follow park guidelines, avoid waste, respect wildlife, and choose eco-conscious accommodations. The preservation of this landscape is essential for future generations.
Inca Roads And Historic Railways In Mendoza’s Andes
The high Andes of Mendoza are steeped in history. The Inca Trail once connected Cuzco with Mendoza and beyond, and remnants of this ancient path are still visible today. The Trans-Andean Railway, inaugurated in 1910, linked Mendoza with Chile via spectacular mountain tunnels and bridges.
This region was also key to the San Martín Campaign, as the Andes crossing played a strategic role in South America’s independence movement.
Paula is a travel communications specialist with solid expertise in wine tourism and adventure travel in her native Mendoza. She combines a background in audience analysis with a deep understanding of today’s travelers to craft effective, user-centered, and sustainable content strategies. Her approach blends creativity, data, and a strong commitment to the responsible development of tourism in Argentina.