Mendoza Trekking Tour in the Cordón del Plata with Argentine Asado Lunch

After hotel pickup in the city of Mendoza, leave the city behind for the 2-hour drive to Quebrada del Condor. During the drive, pass through the village of Potrerillos and stop by a panoramic viewpoint called the Mirador de la Hoyada.

When you arrive at the gorge, get ready for your trek with a traditional Argentine breakfast of regional pastries, and listen to a quick introduction and safety briefing about your hike. Then set off with your guide, starting your trek at the foot of the Cordón del Plata, an Andean mountain range in the Uco Valley.

Your total trekking time is 4 to 5 hours, depending on the pace of your group. As you walk, marvel at the beautiful alpine landscape of snowcapped peaks, and keep an eye out for local wildlife like hares, llamas, foxes and, of course, Andean condors, which are among the largest flying land birds in the western hemisphere.

Take a break to enjoy a cup of mate, a popular South American drink made from yerba mate leaves steeped in hot water. Then continue following your guide — who will point out interesting plants and help you spot animals — all the way up to a viewpoint that sits 9,185 feet (2,800 meters) above sea level. Rest your legs for a bit and snap some photos before heading back down the mountain.

During the hike, enjoy an authentic Argentine barbecue lunch known as an asado, which will give you the energy you need to finish trekking. Your adventure ends with drop-off back in Mendoza.