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Cordón Del Plata: A Climber's Paradise in the Andes

Explore the majestic Cordón del Plata: Trekking, mountaineering, and breathtaking Andean scenery await just 80km from Mendoza.

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The Cordón del Plata, part of the Frontal Cordillera in the Andes, offers stunning snow-capped peaks ranging from 3,700 to 6,000 meters. It's a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering diverse activities from trekking and mountaineering to photography and flora/fauna observation.

A brief summary to Cordón Del Plata

  • RN7 397, Mendoza Province, AR

Local tips

  • The best time to visit for trekking and mountaineering is during the South American summer (October to April) for milder weather conditions.
  • Bring appropriate gear: sturdy hiking boots, layers of warm clothing, sunscreen, and a hat, as the weather in the mountains can change quickly.
  • Consider hiring a local guide, especially if you are not experienced in high-altitude trekking or mountaineering.
  • Acclimatize to the altitude before attempting strenuous hikes. Spend a day or two in Mendoza or Potrerillos to adjust.
  • Check weather conditions and trail closures before heading out, as conditions can be unpredictable.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach Cordón del Plata from Mendoza, begin at the Mendoza bus terminal. Take a bus towards Potrerillos; these depart regularly, and the journey takes approximately 1 hour. From Potrerillos, hire a taxi or local transfer service to the park entrance, roughly 10 km away. Confirm the fare before starting your trip. Bus fare to Potrerillos is approximately ARS 45,878 for a monthly pass. A taxi from Potrerillos to the park entrance will cost approximately ARS 2,000-3,000.

  • Driving

    Driving from Mendoza, head south on Av. San Martín, then continue onto Av. Juan B. Justo. At the roundabout, take the second exit onto Ruta Provincial 82 and follow it for about 30 km until you see signs for Parque Provincial Cordón del Plata. Turn right onto a dirt road leading to the park entrance. Note that there may be a small entrance fee payable in cash. Be aware that few streets outside of the city have street signs, so it's best to get directions from a tour company. Expect to pay around ARS 1,141 per liter of gasoline.

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Discover more about Cordón Del Plata

Cordón del Plata, located approximately 80 km west of Mendoza, Argentina, is a majestic mountain range within the Andes. This stunning area, whose name translates to “Silver Ridge,” is known for its snow-capped peaks, glacial valleys, and diverse landscapes, offering a wide array of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. The Cordón del Plata is part of the Frontal Cordillera and boasts peaks ranging from 3,700 to 6,000 meters above sea level. The area's geology features Paleozoic rocks shaped by Quaternary glaciation, leaving behind moraine deposits. The most impressive glacier is on the south face of Mt. Plata, with other challenging glaciers at Mt. Rincón, Mt. Colorado, and Mt. Agustín Alvarez. Visitors can enjoy trekking, mountaineering, and simply soaking in the natural beauty. The park is home to diverse plant and tree species, streams, hills, and archaeological sites. The Vallecitos ski center, located at 3,000 meters, is another highlight. The area is also known for its native wildlife, including guanacos, torrent ducks, red-tailed comets, lesser horned owls, and Andean condors. The best time to visit for adventure activities is from October to April. Winter offers challenges for experienced mountaineers due to altitude and harsh weather, requiring special cold-weather gear. Summer brings green meadows, water springs, and slopes covered in ferns, moss, and lichen.

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