A high-Andes excursion from Barreal that pairs glacial-fed Laguna Blanca with the mineral-blue Arroyo Turquesa under the shadow of Mercedario. Expect dramatic colors, wildlife sightings, and thin air—prepare to acclimatize and layer up.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
At first light the road peels away from Barreal’s low scrub and climbs into a thinner air where the Andes begin to assert themselves. A 4x4 grinds out of the valley, dust devils spinning off the axle as the peaks of the Ramada range step into view. By the time you reach Laguna Blanca, the lake sits quiet and silver at roughly 3,100 meters, a natural mirror for a sky that feels larger at altitude. Push higher toward Arroyo Turquesa and the color of the water changes—mineral-rich currents bend the light into a startling turquoise at close to 4,000 meters—and there’s a glacier at the creek’s head that gives the place a hard, geological edge.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
2 days (approx. 48 hours)
Fitness Level
Good aerobic fitness and previous experience with altitude exposure recommended; able to hike up to 4–6 hours with breaks.
Wildlife
History
The Ramada range and Mercedario have long been seasonal grazing lands for local communities; archaeological traces and stone corrals speak to centuries of transhumance.
Conservation
Low visitor numbers help preserve fragile alpine wetlands; follow leave-no-trace guidelines and stick to established tracks to limit erosion.
Reserve your spot on the Tour Laguna Blanca & Arroyo Turquoise Barreal San Juan Arg. today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize in Barreal
Spend at least 24 hours in town before ascending to 3,000–4,000 m to reduce altitude sickness risk.
Hydrate and eat carbs
Drink steadily and eat energy-rich, salty snacks to help maintain blood volume at altitude.
Sun protection is non-negotiable
High-altitude UV is intense—use SPF 50+, sunglasses, and a wide-brim hat even on overcast days.
Sturdy boots and trekking poles
Rocky approaches and short scree slopes make ankle support and poles useful for stability.
Mountaineering boots
Support and traction on rocky, high-altitude terrain.
Fleece midlayer + wind shell
Layering handles large temperature swings and cold afternoon winds.
Hydration bladder (2L+)
Easy sipping at altitude keeps hydration steady.
summer
High-SPF sunscreen & polarized sunglasses
Protects against intense UV and glare off stony surfaces and water.