Route from Uspallata to Las Cuevas

Information

The vehicular route along the National Route 7 that goes from Uspallata to Las Cuevas, can be considered a touristic trip due to the amount of attractions that can be seen.

There is public transportation along this route. If you do it by car, you must take into account that in snowy seasons (especially from June to August) there may be ice on the road and it may be necessary to use chains on the tyres.

Taking the locality of Uspallata as kilometre 0 (zero), we have the following places of interest:
- After 8 kilometres the route starts to go parallel to the Mendoza River, which we will see on our left. You will be able to appreciate a great landscape resulting from the water course with mountains in the background.
- At km 22 you cross the Picheuta River. From there, about 50 metres from the road you will find the so-called Picheuta Bridge, which was built in colonial times and was used by San Martín's army to cross the Andes.
- Punta de Vacas Entrance to the Aconcagua Provincial Park: at the 53rd kilometre. It is an alternative and less usual route through which you can make a trek or an ascent to the highest peak in America.
- Los Penitentes: at km 63. It is a ski centre with slopes and lifts, ideal for snow activities mainly in the months of July and August. There are lodgings and restaurants.
- Puente del Inca: at km 70. It is a naturally formed bridge with colours ranging from yellow to ochre. It is surrounded by hot springs.
- Horcones Entrance to the Aconcagua Provincial Park: at the 73rd kilometre. It is the main entrance through which most of the tourists and mountaineers that come to the protected area arrive.
- Las Cuevas: at the 84th kilometre. It is a small village located above 3500 metres above sea level, with lodgings and a place to eat.