Trekking in the Cordon del Plata, Vallecitos

Trekking in the Cordon del Plata, Vallecitos

Are you looking for an experience that elevates your senses? This exclusive trekking in the Andes will take you to the high peaks to enjoy the best views of the mountain range. 

We will head to Vallecitos, a community located 90 km from the capital of Mendoza, and is the ideal setting to connect with the mountain.

A SAK driver will pick you up from your accommodation early in the morning. Our destination is the magnificent Cordon del Plata Provincial Park. The trip will take about 2 hours and we will be amazed as we go deep into the heart of the mountain range. Once in the place, our expert mountaineering guide will tell us about the precautions to take into account before starting the trekking in the Andes. 

The trek will aim to reach the top of 2 hills that are part of this dazzling mountain range. First we will reach the 3.400 meters of the well known Arenales. Then we will continue climbing up to our final challenge, the summit of the Lomas Blancas hill at 3.700 meters above sea level. 

No previous experience is necessary for this trip. If you are physically fit and active, you can enjoy this experience. If you already practice mountaineering or trekking, it is also an excellent option for a day, as it is quite demanding. Our guide will go at your pace. We will respect your resting times so that you can take pictures and enjoy the trail.

During the tour we will walk along safe high altitude trails. At the foot of the Plata we will discover imposing gorges and pure water springs. We will see native fauna such as condors, guanacos and red foxes. We will also learn about the local vegetation and its properties.

After 4 hours of hiking we will have lunch at a natural viewpoint. While we replenish our energy with a delicious box lunch, we will enjoy the incredible scenery surrounded by huge mountains between 3.000 and 6.000 meters high. With a privileged view of the central Andes we will be able to take the best pictures to start our return trip. At sunset, and after reaching the peaks, we will return to the city. 

Carry your cell phone with you to take pictures of the star of this mountain range, the Cerro El Plata. You will be amazed by its 5,968 meters above sea level.

Our trips are designed so that when you return home you feel that something has changed and we know that sustainable tourism is the way to achieve it. In SAK Wine & Travel we contribute to the Sustainable Development Goal Nº6: Water, a fundamental resource for Mendoza.

What do I need to know?

Essential items

We suggest you to bring these items for personal use to make your excursion perfect:

– Backpack of 20 or 25 lts.

– Extra mineral water.

– Personal care items (lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen SPF50, antibacterial gel/wipes, insect repellent).

– Special clothing: synthetic T-shirt (first skin), short sleeve T-shirt, fleece jacket, waterproof jacket or Gore-Tex, warm jacket, thermal underwear or first skin (winter), trekking pants, glasses with 100% UV protection, extra socks, sun hat and wool or polar hat, boots or trekking shoes.

Note: The best clothing for mountain activities is wool or synthetic materials in layers, as they dry quickly and keep warmth better. We suggest a base layer, then an intermediate layer, such as a light fleece coat or similar, and then a windproof and waterproof layer.

Safety tips: Inform the guide or driver of any illnesses, allergies or physical restrictions. Remember to bring your medication and administration instructions.