Day 1 • Transfer Mendoza – Portinari Refuge | Trekking to Scaravelli Refuge

Tunuyan - The adventure kicks off with a gathering to introduce all participants of the journey. Following this, a private vehicle will transport the group to “Manzano Histórico,” continuing on a dirt road to Refugio Portinari, National Gendarmerie. Here, the local muleteers, who will be integral to this remarkable expedition, will be introduced. Customs clearance and registration with the National Gendarmerie will be completed at this stage.

The group will then embark on a 4-hour trek to Scaravelli Refuge at 3200m, venturing deep into the mountains. In the afternoon, camp will be set up, and dinner will be enjoyed around a bonfire.

Transfer: 3:30 hrs – Mendoza 750 m | Manzano Histórico 1710 m | Portinari 2520 m
Trekking: 4 hrs – 8km | Max. altitude: Refugio Scaravelli 3200 m
Waypoints:
Portinari 2520 m
Scaravelli 3200 m

Day 2 • Acclimatization at Scaravelli Refuge

Tunuyan - This day is dedicated to acclimatizing at Scaravelli Refuge to ensure better adaptation to the altitude before proceeding with the journey. Participants can take a short hike to explore the surrounding area, enjoy the stunning views, and prepare for the upcoming challenges. This day is crucial for enhancing overall performance and minimizing the risk of altitude sickness.

Dinner and overnight stay at Scaravelli Refuge.

Scaravelli – Portillo Argentino – Real de la Cruz Refuge

Tunuyan - On the second day of trekking, the group will ascend to Portillo Argentino, the highest point of the traverse at 4380 masl. The effort is rewarded with breathtaking views of the Andes and the Chilean border. The path then descends into the Tunuyán River valley, leading to the mountain shelter “Refugio Real de la Cruz” at 2870m, where the second camp will be set up. This shelter, belonging to the Argentine Army, is frequented by adventurers, porters, and mountaineers. An energizing dinner will be served, and the night will be spent in tents.

Trekking: 8-9 hrs – 16km | Max. altitude: Portillo Argentino Pass 4380 m
Waypoints:
Confluencia, De las Yaretas Valley 3545 m.
Portillo base 4000 m.
Portillo Argentino Pass 4380 m.
“La Banderita” viewpoint 2900 m.
Real de la Cruz Refuge – campsite 2870 m.

Tunuyan River Valley | Laguna de los Patos Hike

Tunuyan - The third day is a rest day. Participants can either stay near the shelter or take a short hike in the area with a guide, who will introduce them to the local flora and fauna and visit Laguna de los Patos. Dinner and overnight stay in tents.

Real de la Cruz – El Caletón

Tunuyan - After breakfast, preparations will be made for the Tunuyán river crossing. Strong horses, guided by skilled muleteers, will assist in crossing the river. The hike continues to a splendid viewpoint of Mount Tupungato (6,570 meters) and follows the beautiful Palomares stream to the final campsite in Argentinean territory: El Caletón. If the weather is favorable, a relaxing bath in a mineral-rich stream can be enjoyed. Spending the night at this camp offers a wonderful opportunity to sleep by the campfire under a starry sky.

Trekking: 5-7 hrs – 13 km | Max. altitude: El Caletón camp 3027 m
Waypoints:
Campamento Real de la Cruz 2870 m.
Cruce del río Tunuyán 2870 m.
Valle de Palomares 3000 m.
Campamento El Caletón 3027 m.

El Caletón – International border – Termas del Plomo, Chile | Transfer to Cajón del Maipo

Cajon del Maipo - A significant challenge awaits on the fifth day as the group heads towards the Argentinean – Chilean Border. The hike ascends to the Piuquenes Pass at 4030m, marking the border between Argentina and Chile. Due to customs regulations, Chilean horses will be used from this point. New Chilean mules and muleteer guides will lead the descent to the “El Plomo” river in Chilean territory, the final leg of the expedition. After crossing the Yeso river, private vehicles will be ready to transport the group to Embalse del Yeso (Yeso Reservoir) in San Gabriel, Cajón del Maipo to complete customs paperwork at the Chilean Police station.

Accommodation will be in a beautiful complex of cabins, followed by a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

Trekking: 7-9 hrs – 15 km | Max. altitude: Piuquenes Pass 4030 m
Waypoints:
Piuquenes Pass 4030 m.
Río Yeso Crossing

Transfer Cajón del Maipo, Chile – Santiago de Chile

Santiago - Transfer to Santiago marks the end of the program. An optional transfer to Mendoza is available – please contact us if assistance is needed in arranging the transfer to Mendoza.

• Mule Gear transportation
• Lunch
• Dinner
• Starlink connection (limited use)
• Breakfast
• Full Board accommodation in Premium tents and cabins in Chike
• Mountain Guides 1/4
• Transfer pick up from your hotel in Mendoza and to Santiago de Chile

• Excess Baggage
• Rescue and medical insurance
• Premature Departure from the Program
• Sleeping bags

Embark on a 7-day trekking adventure across the awe-inspiring Andes mountain range, journeying from Argentina to Chile. The expedition begins in the picturesque Uco Valley, where participants will explore breathtaking landscapes of valleys, rivers, and majestic peaks, while delving into the region’s rich history. Enjoy the excitement of the wilderness, accompanied by certified guides, and spend nights under the stars with fellow explorers. This exceptional journey offers immersive cultural experiences and a taste of local traditions as travelers navigate through pristine nature.

• 7-day guided trekking tour from Mendoza, Argentina to Chile
• Suitable for intermediate trekkers, featuring spectacular views and historical insights
• Includes meals, camping equipment, and expert guides throughout the trek
• Small group sizes ensure personalized attention and safety during the adventure

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.