Mendoza: Hot Springs & Rafting Day with Private Pickup

Summary

Soak in Cacheuta’s hot springs then raft Mendoza River wilds

You’ll float through warm mineral pools at Cacheuta Hot Springs, grab lunch under mountain skies, then tackle 12km of Mendoza River rafting with a local guide. Private pickup means no stress getting there or back. Expect laughter, splashes, and maybe a new favorite memory by sunset.

What’s the experience like?

“You’re going to love this,” our driver grinned as we wound out of Mendoza city, windows cracked just enough to let in that dry mountain air. I was still half-asleep but the hills around Cacheuta woke me up fast — they look almost painted, all ochre and green. The local guide, Martín, handed out wristbands for the hot springs and told us not to rush. “Take your time, it’s your day.” I didn’t expect the water to smell faintly of minerals (like warm stones after rain), or how quiet it was except for a few kids splashing nearby.

I lost track of time drifting between pools — some hotter than others, steam curling off the surface. At one point I tried the zip line (not my most graceful moment) and Martín laughed but said my landing was “muy valiente.” Lunch wasn’t included so we grabbed empanadas from a little stand outside the park — honestly, best decision. There’s something about eating with wet hair in the sun that makes food taste better, you know?

After lunch we drove on to Potrerillos for rafting. The Mendoza River looked rougher than I’d pictured — muddy brown and loud. They suited us up in thick wetsuits and helmets; mine smelled like river water and sunscreen. The rafting itself? Wild. Twelve kilometers of bouncing over waves, shouting directions in Spanish and English (I mostly just paddled when everyone else did). My arms are still sore thinking about it. But there was this moment halfway through where everything went quiet except for water slapping rocks — just sky, mountains, and us floating for a second.

We piled back into the van damp and tired, shoes squelching on the floor mats. Martín dropped us at our hotel door before sunset — I still think about that mineral smell from the hot springs sometimes when I wash my hands at home. Not sure if it’s nostalgia or just wishing I could go back for another round.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Hot springs and rafting adventure

• Pick up passengers from accommodation
• Travel to Cacheuta Hot Springs
• Enjoy hot springs and zip lines
• Have lunch (not included)
• Travel to Potrerillos
• Do intermediate level rafting (12 km)
• Use provided thermal and safety clothing
• Return to accommodation

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this Mendoza hot springs tour?

Yes, private transportation with hotel pickup is included.

How long is the rafting section on the Mendoza River?

The rafting covers an intermediate 12 km stretch of river.

Are entrance fees to Cacheuta Hot Springs included?

Yes, entry to Cacheuta Hot Springs Park is included.

Is lunch provided during this day trip?

No, lunch is not included; you can buy food at local stands nearby.

What safety equipment is provided for rafting?

All necessary thermal clothing and safety gear are provided for rafting.

Can pregnant travelers join this tour?

No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers.

Is public transportation available near Cacheuta Hot Springs?

Yes, there are public transportation options nearby if needed.

Do I need prior rafting experience?

No prior experience is required but moderate fitness helps.

What’s included

Your day includes private hotel pickup and drop-off in Mendoza city, entrance fees to Cacheuta Hot Springs Park with access to all pools and facilities, plus all thermal clothing and safety equipment needed for intermediate-level rafting on the Mendoza River alongside an experienced local guide.