Malargüe Department: Volcanoes, Nature and Las Leñas
Accommodation in Malargüe Department
Volcanic landscapes, a vast wetland and a ski resort with summer activities shape Malargüe Department. There is also a cave with stalactites, unusual rock formations and opportunities to explore science and history. Which holiday rental makes a suitable base therefore also depends on which of these very different sides you would like to discover.
Volcanoes, a wetland and distinctive rock formations
Reserva Total La Payunia encompasses more than 800 volcanoes. It is considered one of the volcanic areas with the greatest density and diversity in the world. Expansive landscapes of colourful volcanic materials give the area its distinctive character; La Payunia is also a protected area for fauna and flora. Those especially interested in volcanic landscapes will find a different focus here from the water and birdlife of Laguna Llancanelo.
Laguna Llancanelo is a wetland covering 650 square kilometres. It is located 75 kilometres from the city of Malargüe, along Ruta 186 and at an altitude of 1,280 metres above sea level. Flamingos, black-necked swans, herons and ducks are among the birds found there. The area is a provincial nature reserve and has been part of the Ramsar Convention since 8 November 1995. Tickets for photo safaris and birdwatching must be requested in advance; visitors must also be accompanied by an authorised guide. If the lagoon is important to your trip, consider its distance from the city when choosing where to stay.
Geological diversity is also evident underground and in the rock formations. The galleries of Caverna de las Brujas feature stalactites, stalagmites, curtains, columns and coral formations created by water erosion and mineral deposits. The chambers visitors can see include Sala de la Virgen, La Gatera, Sala de la Estalagmita Gigante and Sala de los Encuentros. Castillos de Pincheira lies 27 kilometres southwest of the city of Malargüe. River and wind erosion shaped its volcanic rocks into towers and natural walls reminiscent of medieval castles. Pozo de las Ánimas, meanwhile, consists of two sinkholes eroded by underground rivers; their green water surfaces are each almost 300 metres in diameter.
Skiing and summer activities
Las Leñas is one of the most important ski resorts in Latin America. It offers ski runs and lift-accessed freeride areas. The longest uninterrupted descent on marked runs is 7 kilometres, and there are also 16 lifts. Alongside skiing, activities include cross-country skiing, snowboarding, freeride skiing, off-piste skiing and a freestyle park. This variety makes Las Leñas a distinct focus for a trip centred on winter sports.
In summer, Las Leñas offers trekking, ziplining, climbing, rappelling, horseback riding and mountain biking. When weighing winter sports against summer activities while planning a trip, you can take these seasonal options into account when choosing when to visit. The activities listed are not necessarily available at all times.
Culture and discoveries
Capilla Histórica Nuestra Señora del Rosario is considered one of the most important monuments in Malargüe, Mendoza, and a testament to the history and cultural identity of Malargüe Department. For travellers who want to explore cultural history as well as landscapes, it offers a distinct point of interest.
At Planetario Malargüe, science meets engaging interpretation. Guided tours explain three solar artefacts. The tour then goes either to the science museum or to the ESA exhibitions, depending on the case. The digital planetarium dome presents shows and interactive content and has a maximum capacity of 65 people. This visit differs from the department’s nature experiences: the focus here is on astronomy and how it is presented.
Choosing the right location
The distances can help you match your priorities to where you stay: Laguna Llancanelo is 75 kilometres from the city of Malargüe, and Castillos de Pincheira is 27 kilometres to its southwest. If you make either attraction a focus of your trip, factor its distance into your choice of holiday rental. For a trip combining several different interests, the locations of Los Molles and Malargüe can also help you plan.
For the broader travel overview: Mendoza.
More destinations
More places within the same destination:
