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Mendoza · Argentina
7 Day Trek - Central Andes Crossing Trek
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From $1,800.00 per person
Current Project Expedition rate
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Project Expedition
The Experience
What your day looks like
A Journey Through Majestic Landscapes and Rich History: Tunuyán Valley Route – Piuquenes Pass Set out on an unforgettable adventure with our Andes Crossing Guided Trekking Tours, where you’ll traverse the majestic Andes Mountain Range on foot! This unique journey begins in the picturesque Uco Valley in Tunuyán and leads you through awe-inspiring landscapes of rugged beauty. Traverse pristine valleys, follow roaring rivers, and stand in the shadow of towering granite walls and mountains reaching up to 6,000 meters. Along the way, keep an eye out for majestic condors and curious guanacos, who may join us on our trek. As you cross the Andes, you’ll immerse yourself in a pristine natural environment, free from the distractions of modern civilization. This expedition offers a true escape into the wilderness, reminiscent of historical explorations. Follow in the footsteps of General Lemos’s troops, one of General San Martín’s strategic units, and retrace their legendary journey across the Andes over 200 years ago. An Expedition of a Lifetime! Experience each moment of the journey intensely, sharing long days with a group of fascinating travelers and our friendly team of guides and muleteers. Enjoy evenings around the campfire, marvel at stunning landscapes, and savor traditional food under the breathtaking night sky. Dive into the heart of the Andes with the Andes Crossing Trekking Tour—an adventure that will leave you breathless. Experience the thrill of untouched wilderness, immerse yourself in local traditions, and relive one of South America’s most significant historical events. This is more than a journey; it’s a story you’ll cherish for a lifetime. **This tour is available starting December 29, 2026
At a Glance
The experience, in brief
- Trekking Across the Central Andes
- This is a unique experience that will take you to a forgotten land of amazing beauty
- During the trekking adventure across the Andes, we will be living in the natural environment
- Enjoy a hair walk while crossing the Tunuyán River
Your Itinerary
Your day, step by step
Day 1
Mendoza
Welcome to this tour! Previous day - Mendoza Transfer: 3:30 hrs – Mendoza 750 m | Manzano Histórico 1710 m | Portinari 2520 m Trekking: 4 hrs – 8km | Max. altitude: Refugio Scaravelli 3200 m Arriving in Mendoza the day before the expedition, preferably in the morning, is important. Our team will visit you at your accommodation in the afternoon to check the equipment and go over trip details. Please do not schedule any activities for that day and be available for this review. Our agency can arrange your accommodation for that night at an additional cost (please inquire for more details).
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Mendoza
Transportation at The Historic Apple Tree. Transfer Mendoza – Portinari Refuge | Trekking to Scaravelli Refuge The expedition begins with a meeting to introduce all the members of the trip. Then, we will drive in a private vehicle to “Manzano Histórico” to continue on a dirt road to Refugio Portinari, National Gendarmerie. We will meet our local muleteers who will be part of this spectacular expedition. At this point, we will perform customs clearance and registration with the National Gendarmerie.
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Mendoza
Hiking. Hiking Then, we will start our 4-hour hike to Scaravelli Refuge at 3200m, going deep into the mountains.
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Mendoza
Accomodation In the afternoon, we will set up camp and have dinner around a bonfire.
Day 2
Mendoza
Hiking. Acclimatization at Scaravelli Refuge This day is dedicated to acclimatization at Scaravelli Refuge to ensure a better adaptation to altitude before continuing the journey. You can take a short hike to explore the surrounding area, enjoy the breathtaking views, and prepare for the upcoming challenges. This day helps improve overall performance and reduces the risk of altitude sickness.
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Mendoza
Accomodation Dinner and overnight at Scaravelli Refuge
Day 3
Mendoza
Hiking at Portillo Argentino. Scaravelli – Portillo Argentino – Real de la Cruz Refuge Trekking: 8-9 hrs – 16km On our second day of trekking, we will climb to the Portillo Argentino, the highest point in our traverse: 4380 masl. Effort pays off, and once we get to the highest point, we will be rewarded with astonishing views of the Andes and the border with Chile.
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Mendoza
Sightseeing at Tunuyán River. The path continues downhill to the Tunuyán River valley, and we will arrive at the mountain shelter named “Refugio Real de la Cruz” at 2870m to set up our second camp in the area. This shelter belongs to the Argentine Army and is used by adventurers, porters, and mountaineers.
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Mendoza
Accomodation We will enjoy an energizing dinner and spend the night in tents.
Day 4
Mendoza
Leisure at Tunuyán River. Tunuyan River Valley | Laguna de los Patos Hike Our third day will be a rest day. You can stay near the shelter or take a short hike in the area with your guide, who will show you the local flora and fauna and visit Laguna de los Patos.
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Mendoza
Accomodation Dinner and overnight in tents.
Day 5
Mendoza
Horseback Riding at Tunuyán River. Real de la Cruz – El Caletón Trekking: 5-7 hrs – 13 km After breakfast, we will prepare for the Tunuyán river crossing. To cross the river, we will need the help of our strong horses guided by the skillful muleteers.
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Mendoza
Swimming. El Caletón If the weather is mild, we will be able to enjoy a relaxing bath in a mineral-rich stream.
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Mendoza
Hiking at Tupungato. The hike continues to an excellent viewpoint of Mount Tupungato (6,570 meters) and follows up the beautiful Palomares stream to the last campsite in Argentinean territory: El Caletón.
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Mendoza
Accomodation Spending the night at this camp offers a wonderful opportunity to sleep by the campfire under a sky full of stars.
Day 6
Santiago
Hiking at Cerro El Plomo. El Caletón – International border – Termas del Plomo, Chile | Transfer to Cajón del Maipo Trekking: 7-9 hrs – 15 km Another big challenge lies ahead on the fifth day as we depart towards the Argentinean – Chilean Border. We will hike up to the Piuquenes Pass, at 4030m, the border between Argentina and Chile. Due to customs regulations, Chilean horses must be used from this point.
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San Gabriel
Horseback Riding at Yeso River. After crossing the Yeso river, private vehicles will be waiting for us to take us to Embalse del Yeso (Yeso Reservoir) in San Gabriel, Cajón del Maipo to complete customs paperwork at the Chilean Police station.
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San Gabriel
Accommodation Accomodation in a beautiful complex of cabins and farewell dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 7
Santiago
Transfer Cajón del Maipo, Chile – Santiago de Chile Transfer to Santiago and end of the program. Optional transfer to Mendoza Don’t hesitate to contact us if you would like us to arrange your transfer to Mendoza.
Before You Go
What to know before booking
Included
Transfer from Mendoza to the Starting Point: Private transportation from the city of Mendoza to the trekking departure point. Professional Guide: Certified mountain guide, always ready to provide detailed and fascinating information about the flora, fauna, and history of the region to enrich your experience Transport of Personal Gear: Mules for transporting up to 10 kg of personal gear per person. Complete Camping Equipment: Includes tents, cooking utensils, tableware, and all necessary camping items. Accommodation in Premium Tents: The North Face V25 tents, equipped with a solar panel, charger, and USB LED light, with capacity for two or three people. Meals and Drinks: All meals and beverages during the horseback program, prepared with fresh, local ingredients. First Aid Kit: A comprehensive first aid kit available throughout the expedition. Satellite Communication device for Emergencies: Satellite communication available exclusively for emergencies (personal communications not included). Transfer at the End of the Ride: Transportation from the end point of the hike to the lodging in Cajón del Maipo, Chile. Accommodation in Cajón del Maipo: One night in a cozy cabin complex in Cajón del Maipo, Chile. Farewell dinner: Farewell dinner in Chile to celebrate our quest. Transfer to Santiago, Chile: Transportation from Cajón del Maipo to Santiago, Chile, with arrival at the bus terminal or airport. Inquire about transfers to other areas.
Not Included
Return Transfer to Mendoza: Transportation from Santiago, Chile, to Mendoza at the end of the expedition. Transport of Unused Luggage: Additional costs for transporting luggage not taken on the expedition. Sleeping Bag: You can rent one in Mendoza if you do not have your own. Personal Equipment: Personal clothing and gear are not included in the program. Unspecified Meals and Drinks: Expenses for meals and drinks outside those stipulated in the itinerary. Drinks in farewell dinner. Personal Expenses: Telephone calls, tips, laundry, and other personal expenses. Premature Departure from the Program: Any costs associated with early departure from the program. Rescue Costs: Includes any expenses arising from rescue operations. Medical or Air Evacuation Expenses: Does not cover medical costs or air evacuations. Travel Insurance: Medical and assistance insurance, including air rescue, is required.
What to Bring
RECOMMENDED EQUIPMENT FOR THE ANDES CROSSING TREKKING TOUR UPPER BODY Synthetic T-Shirt: Breathable material, to keep you fresh and dry. 2 Long-sleeved Base Layer: Lightweight and breathable shirts that keep your body dry and comfortable during the trek and protected from the sun. Fleece Jacket or Sweater: Provides additional warmth during cold mornings and evenings. Waterproof or Windproof Jacket: This is essential for protection against rain and wind. It should be lightweight, breathable, and durable, preferably with a hood. Insulated Jacket (Synthetic or down): This jacket offers an extra insulation layer, ideal for low temperatures at high altitudes. It is preferably hooded. 1 pair of Lightweight Gloves and 1 pair of warm/fleece gloves: To Keep hands warm in cold conditions, opt for breathable and moisture-wicking materials. LOWER BODY Trekking Pants: Comfortable and durable pants that allow freedom of movement; Quick-drying with multiple pockets. Long Underwear or Tights: Additional layers that provide warmth under trekking pants. FOOTWEAR Trekking Boots: Sturdy and durable footwear with good ankle support, ideal for long walks on uneven terrain. Thick Socks (2 pairs): Warm and cushioned socks to keep your feet warm and prevent blisters. HEAD Sun Hat: Wide-brimmed hat that protects your face and neck from sun exposure. Wool or Fleece Hat: This will keep your head warm in cold conditions. Opt for breathable and moisture-wicking materials. Sunglasses with 100% UV Protection: Protect your eyes from UV rays and glare, essential at high altitudes. Preferably, with a wraparound design to minimize light entering from the sides.sunglasess for aconcagua trek Neck gaiter or buff: Multifunctional, protects your neck and face from cold, wind, and sun. OTHER 2 Liter Water Bottle: Essential for staying hydrated. Choose a durable bottle with a wide mouth for easy filling. 30-40 Liter Backpack: This spacious and comfortable backpack is ideal for carrying all the necessary gear for a day of trekking. 45 – 70 Liter Duffle bag: This is a super-tough expedition duffel to protect the gear and clothes the mules haul to the camps. KAWS x The North Face Basecamp Duffle Bag White Black One Size Headlamp with two extra batteries: Hands-free light source for use at camp or in low-light situations. Comfortable Sleeping Bag (Comfort -5°C): A sleeping bag provides comfort and warmth during cold nights in the mountains. Sleeping Pad: Adds insulation and comfort for sleeping on hard and cold ground. Inflatable mattress Walking Poles Comfortable Camp Clothes (sneakers, socks, cotton shirt, etc.): Comfortable clothes after trekking. Sunscreen (recommended SPF 50+): Essential protection against UV rays at high altitudes. Personal Hygiene Items (towel, soap, etc.): Basic personal hygiene items to stay clean and fresh during the trip. Personal first-aid kit: Bring any prescribed personal medications. Include eye drops in case you are sensitive or allergic to dust. Swimming suit. Personal ID or passport USB power bank suggested Spending money
Meeting & Pickup
Pick up from your hotel in the town of Mendoza, let us know the details at the time of booking.
Languages Offered
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Before Booking
Pick up from your hotel in the town of Mendoza, let us know the details at the time of booking.
Planning Notes
Minimum age: 18 Hotel pickup offered: Yes Confirmation: Manual By Business
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