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Launch from Mendoza and run 12 km of the Mendoza River through Potrerillos' rocky gorge. This full-day, bilingual rafting trip combines a one-hour river run (Class II+/III+) with transfers, equipment, and a post-raft lunch.
Launch from Mendoza and run 12 km of the Mendoza River through Potrerillos' rocky gorge. This full-day, bilingual rafting trip combines a one-hour river run (Class II+/III+) with transfers, equipment, and a post-raft lunch.
The bus pulls out of Mendoza before dawn and the valley opens up: the Andes shoulder closer, scrubbed rock faces catching light, and the Mendoza River below carving a white line through the gorge. Guides at the Potrerillos base run a clear safety briefing, fit helmets and lifejackets, then send the raft into a 12 km stretch of river where water dares you forward—pockets of calm punctuated by Class II+/III+ rapids that change with the season.
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Operated by Gray Line Argentina · Potrerillos, Mendoza
The bus pulls out of Mendoza before dawn and the valley opens up: the Andes shoulder closer, scrubbed rock faces catching light, and the Mendoza River below carving a white line through the gorge. Guides at the Potrerillos base run a clear safety briefing, fit helmets and lifejackets, then send the raft into a 12 km stretch of river where water dares you forward—pockets of calm punctuated by Class II+/III+ rapids that change with the season.
Geology here is immediate: folded metamorphic rock and alluvial fans tell of glacial and fluvial forces that shaped the channel. The Potrerillos reservoir upstream moderates flows for irrigation and hydro projects but leaves narrow, energetic runs downstream favored for rafting. Culturally, this corridor has long been a transit route between Mendoza's city valley and high-mountain communities; today small inns and vineyards at the valley floor provide the hospitality racers return to after the run.
Practically, expect about one hour on the water within a 4–6 hour door-to-door excursion that includes round-trip transfer from central Mendoza, bilingual guiding, equipment, and a post-run lunch. The route is river-focused—no major hiking or elevation gain—so footwear that stays on in current, sun protection, and a dry change of clothes make the difference between a good day and a great one. Children under 12 and guests with serious cardiovascular or spinal issues are not permitted. Photographers should bring a waterproof case; lockers are available at base. Time your trip for shoulder seasons if you want livelier water without midsummer heat. The river is straightforward to approach, but it rewards respect: read your guide's signals, lean into paddling, and you'll leave with a clean, fast memory of Mendoza's mountain water.
moderate.
4–6 hours (approx. 6 hours total including transfers and lunch).
Suitable for people in average physical condition who can follow paddle instructions and swim; not recommended for those with serious heart or spinal conditions.
The on-water portion is approximately 12 km and takes about one hour, though total tour time including transfers and lunch is roughly 4–6 hours.
Children under 12 are not permitted; operators typically accept teenagers and adults who meet health requirements.
Yes—helmets, lifejackets, paddles, and safety gear are provided by the outfitter and included in the tour price.
Difficulty varies with seasonal snowmelt; guides assess river conditions and may adjust the itinerary or cancel for safety—note this specific tour has an all-sales-final cancellation policy.
The Potrerillos reservoir and associated works altered seasonal flows to support irrigation and recreation; the valley has long been a human route between Mendoza city and highland settlements.
River health depends on seasonal snowpack and responsible recreation—pack out waste, avoid trampling riparian vegetation, and follow guide instructions to minimize impact.
Gray Line Argentina operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
The bus pulls out of Mendoza before dawn and the valley opens up: the Andes shoulder closer, scrubbed rock faces catching light, and the Mendoza River below carving a white line through the gorge. Guides at the Potrerillos base run a clear safety briefing, fit helmets and lifejackets, then send the raft into a 12 km stretch of river where water dares you forward—pockets of calm punctuated by Class II+/III+ rapids that change with the season.
The bus pulls out of Mendoza before dawn and the valley opens up: the Andes shoulder closer, scrubbed rock faces catching light, and the Mendoza River below carving a white line through the gorge. Guides at the Potrerillos base run a clear safety briefing, fit helmets and lifejackets, then send the raft into a 12 km stretch of river where water dares you forward—pockets of calm punctuated by Class II+/III+ rapids that change with the season.
Geology here is immediate: folded metamorphic rock and alluvial fans tell of glacial and fluvial forces that shaped the channel. The Potrerillos reservoir upstream moderates flows for irrigation and hydro projects but leaves narrow, energetic runs downstream favored for rafting. Culturally, this corridor has long been a transit route between Mendoza's city valley and high-mountain communities; today small inns and vineyards at the valley floor provide the hospitality racers return to after the run.
Practically, expect about one hour on the water within a 4–6 hour door-to-door excursion that includes round-trip transfer from central Mendoza, bilingual guiding, equipment, and a post-run lunch. The route is river-focused—no major hiking or elevation gain—so footwear that stays on in current, sun protection, and a dry change of clothes make the difference between a good day and a great one. Children under 12 and guests with serious cardiovascular or spinal issues are not permitted. Photographers should bring a waterproof case; lockers are available at base. Time your trip for shoulder seasons if you want livelier water without midsummer heat. The river is straightforward to approach, but it rewards respect: read your guide's signals, lean into paddling, and you'll leave with a clean, fast memory of Mendoza's mountain water.