Discover Villavicencio Natural Reserve: Half-Day Adventure in Mendoza, Argentina
Mendoza, Argentina

Discover Villavicencio Natural Reserve: Half-Day Adventure

Outty Ranking 53 3.5 · 19 traveler reviews5 hoursFrom $40
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Outty Ranking

53/100

Worth a Look. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

3.5/5

Based on 19 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Discover Villavicencio Natural Reserve: Half-Day Adventure worth booking?

Discover Villavicencio Natural Reserve: Half-Day Adventure is a 5-hour experience in Mendoza, Argentina, from $40 per person. It scores 53 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 3.5/5 rating across 19 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
53 / 100
Rating
3.5/5 (19)
Duration
5 hours
From
$40 per person

Take a 5-hour guided tour to the Villavicencio Natural Reserve, which is known for its beauty and its mineral springs. Home to eagles, condors, pumas, guanacos and ostriches as well as flowering cacti and many other animals and plants, the reserve covers 172,974 acres (70,000 hectares). Tour the foothills of the Andes and visit the Monument of Canota and the hauntingly beautiful old resort spa of Villavicencio, where there will be plenty of time to relax. You’ll have plenty of opportunities and vantage points to take in the splendor of the eye-pleasing natural reserve.

What you get

    About this experience

    Take a 5-hour guided tour to the Villavicencio Natural Reserve, which is known for its beauty and its mineral springs. Home to eagles, condors, pumas, guanacos and ostriches as well as flowering cacti and many other animals and plants, the reserve covers 172,974 acres (70,000 hectares). Tour the foothills of the Andes and visit the Monument of Canota and the hauntingly beautiful old resort spa of Villavicencio, where there will be plenty of time to relax. You’ll have plenty of opportunities and vantage points to take in the splendor of the eye-pleasing natural reserve.

    What's included

    Included

    • Hotel pickup and drop-off
    • In-vehicle air conditioning
    • Spanish Professional guide

    Not included

    • Gratuities
    • Food and drinks
    • Entrance fees

    What you'll see and do

    1. Mendoza

      The tour starts at 8 AM with us picking you up from your hostel in Mendoza to begin the excursion.

      Pass by without stopping

    2. You'll journey through the foothills of the Andes and pause for a while at the Monument of Canota, erected in 1935 to honor General José de San Martín. This region played a pivotal role in San Martín's fights, as it served as the route for the army during the liberation campaigns for Chile and Peru's independence.

      30 minutes here

    3. Reserva Natural Villavicencio

      Once in the old Villavicencio Thermal Hotel Complex, enjoy the lavish, verdant gardens, visiting the charming chapel on the grounds. The resort, once the stomping grounds for the powerful and wealthy, hasn’t been used in decades, but there’s still plenty of interest here, including natural springs. Here we will take a walking tour of its gardens and visit the interpretation center.

      240 minutes here · Admission not included

    4. You'll also have the opportunity to explore the Caracoles viewpoint, nestled amidst the rugged terrain, offering breathtaking vistas of the encompassing mountains and the natural reserve.

      30 minutes here

    5. Mendoza

      After enjoying this morning we will be returning to our hotels in the city.

      Pass by without stopping

    Where it starts and ends

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 30 minutes before departure.

    Options you can book

    • Bilingual Tour

      Bilingual Tour: Guided experience in both Spanish and English. Pickup included

    • Spanish-Only Tour

      Pickup included

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en, es
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Wed, Sat
    Group size
    Up to 9 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Tangol

    Know before you go

    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • It is recommended that you bring sunblock and wear comfortable clothes and shoes
    • During the winter months (June through September), it is recommended that you wear warm clothes and bring a jacket or sweater
    • You may bring your own snacks

    Photos

    Discover Villavicencio Natural Reserve: Half-Day Adventure in Mendoza, photo 2Discover Villavicencio Natural Reserve: Half-Day Adventure in Mendoza, photo 3Discover Villavicencio Natural Reserve: Half-Day Adventure in Mendoza, photo 4Discover Villavicencio Natural Reserve: Half-Day Adventure in Mendoza, photo 5Discover Villavicencio Natural Reserve: Half-Day Adventure in Mendoza, photo 6Discover Villavicencio Natural Reserve: Half-Day Adventure in Mendoza, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 19 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    4 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    4 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Traveler reviews

    19 verified traveler reviews for Discover Villavicencio Natural Reserve: Half-Day Adventure. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    4
    4 star
    8
    3 star
    4
    2 star
    0
    1 star
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    Sort
    Stay13602602563 · March 2025

    An impossible dream, transformed into reality.

    I chose the walk through the history of this place, and I was able to understand the magnitude that it had at the time, the effort that should have meant its implementation, the conception with which it was created and the greatness of the final result. A thermal hotel IN THE MIDDLE OF NOWHERE that must have been a luxury for its time. An oasis of civilization in the middle of the mountain desert.

    via Tripadvisor (translated)

    Haydee_Noemi · January 2025

    Nature reserve and landmark hotel

    We visit the reserve as part of the excursion to the area and the old way of snails via ripio that takes you to Uspallata and that continues to be used as an alternative way. We decided not to go in our car because it's road is ripe and ledge, you can travel but I recommend to go on an excursion unless you have a van. The reserve where the hotel is located is very wooded so in summer it is very refreshing. A local guide tells us the history of the hotel and it was extremely interesting. Admission must be paid in advance or when entering on the route there is a cabin, because as in any national or provincial reserve or park there are costs of care and park rangers. In the hotel area you can walk and tour the gardens and surrounding hills, do ziplining and other activities in the trees all with additional payment.

    via Tripadvisor (translated)

    Julie_W · December 2024

    Somewhat disappointed

    The best part of the experience was seeing several guanaco, even a small baby. The hotel is interesting on the outside but you can't go inside and that was a disappointment. The trip is overpriced for this reason and it didn't include the entrance fee to the hotel grounds. The guide was really great but I would have liked more history about the hotel itself and was really interested in seeing inside.

    Response from the operator: Dear Julie, We sincerely regret that your experience did not fully live up to your expectations and appreciate you taking the time to share your feedback. Regarding access to the hotel, we understand your disappointment that you were unable to enter the interior. However, we would like to clarify that due to the restrictions of the venue itself, access to the interior of the hotel is not included in the tour itinerary, which is clearly detailed in the description of the service prior to purchase. As for the cost, this covers transportation, the expert guide and the visit to the points of interest within the established limits. We are pleased that you enjoyed seeing the guanacos and that the guide fulfilled his role in an outstanding manner. The guides on our tours are trained to offer an educational and enriching experience, focusing on the cultural and natural aspects of each destination. Once again, we appreciate your feedback and are pleased that you enjoyed the local wildlife. We remain at your disposal for any further questions or clarification. Best regards, Tangol Tours.

    via Viator

    niconesquick · May 2024

    Loveliness!!

    Beautiful reservation!! A spectacular landscape! Mixed with nature!! Pure air, above all very pure water!! There is an impressive peace! Very well explained by the guide, you pay 1km before the entrance at the 1st stop. You cannot enter the hotel but you can visit its surroundings, including the chapel and the hot springs. It has a very rich and accessible buffet.

    via Tripadvisor (translated)

    matiasterraci · March 2024

    Villavicencio, an incredible place

    Incredible experience that I would repeat a thousand times more! Without a doubt, Mendoza, one of the most beautiful provinces of our Argentina

    via Tripadvisor (translated)

    Good to know

    Duration
    5 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Wed, Sat
    Price range
    $40 to $69
    Hotel pickup
    Included for all travelers
    Booked in 30 days
    7
    Verdict
    Worth a Look

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Tangol, who run 256 experiences we rank across 22 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 48.8.

    See everything Tangol runs

    Why this scores 53

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)36
    Review evidence (18% weight)49
    Booking momentum (14% weight)41
    Value for money (12% weight)100
    Listing quality (10% weight)77
    Local standing (8% weight)0
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Discover Villavicencio Natural Reserve: Half-Day Adventure: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Mendoza.

    How much does Discover Villavicencio Natural Reserve: Half-Day Adventure cost?

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    Prices start at $40 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Mendoza usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Discover Villavicencio Natural Reserve: Half-Day Adventure take?

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    Plan for about 5 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Mendoza is not rushed.

    Is Discover Villavicencio Natural Reserve: Half-Day Adventure worth it?

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    It holds an Outty Ranking of 53 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (3.5/5 across 19 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most popular in Mendoza, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Discover Villavicencio Natural Reserve: Half-Day Adventure?

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    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Discover Villavicencio Natural Reserve: Half-Day Adventure suitable for kids and families?

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    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Discover Villavicencio Natural Reserve: Half-Day Adventure?

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    Around 7 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Mendoza can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

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    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Mendoza and add a light layer if any part of the 5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Discover Villavicencio Natural Reserve: Half-Day Adventure start and how do I get there?

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    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Mendoza within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Mendoza?

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    On Outty we rank every Mendoza experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include High Mountain, Aconcagua and Inca Bridge, Andes High Mountain full day Tour, Horseback riding and roast in the mountains of Mendoza. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Mendoza?

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    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Mendoza?

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    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

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    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Discover Villavicencio Natural Reserve: Half-Day Adventure?

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    Included: Hotel pickup and drop-off; In-vehicle air conditioning; and Spanish Professional guide. Not included: Gratuities; Food and drinks; and Entrance fees. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Discover Villavicencio Natural Reserve: Half-Day Adventure include hotel pickup?

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    Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 69 listed pickup locations in and around Mendoza. Be ready about 30 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.

    What languages is Discover Villavicencio Natural Reserve: Half-Day Adventure offered in?

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    It is offered in English and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Discover Villavicencio Natural Reserve: Half-Day Adventure?

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    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    What happens to Discover Villavicencio Natural Reserve: Half-Day Adventure if the weather is bad?

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    It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Mendoza. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

    What do travelers say about Discover Villavicencio Natural Reserve: Half-Day Adventure?

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    Across 19 reviews averaging 3.5 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    What booking options are available for Discover Villavicencio Natural Reserve: Half-Day Adventure?

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    There are 2 options to choose from, including Bilingual Tour, Spanish-Only Tour. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

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