Sports fans find in Mendoza a paradise of adventure tourism. Many visitors from all over the world come to stay at the Mendoza’s 5 Stars Hotel and to enjoy the warm temperatures and the marvelous landscapes this province has to offer. Rafting is the first choice among those who love outdoors activities and prefer high adrenaline levels. And for those who have never tried it, the furious rapids of the rivers in Mendoza can be an experience full of dynamics and excitement they will never forget.
Mendoza is internationally famous as a vineyard territory, due to its delicious and notable wines. But it is also very popular among the extreme sports fans, who come to Cuyo region to have a wonderful time hiking, skiing, rock climbing, rafting, windsurfing or kayaking. For those who enjoy rafting, the Mendoza River offers the perfect scenario of III or IV graded rapids. A great number of tourism agencies offer different rafting tours, according to the level of complexity the customers are willing to face.
In the beginning of this excursion, the guides give tourists some tips and indications about rafting and safety. Then, they are taken to the rafts, wearing the helmets and vests provided for their protection. The climate conditions are usually very good, and comfortable temperatures provide the perfect scenario to start paddling in order to face the rapids. El Laberinto, Picoli, Concejal, La Piedra Mala and La Muralla China are the most popular rapids over these water courses.
Rafts move forward along the river and many rock formations can be seen along the way. The excitement increases among the raft occupants as they avoid the obstacles. Then, some mounts show up and waters get milder. The range of hills is beautiful and they are huge, making impossible not to look at them. Some of these mounts are better known than others, and they have been named. The ones called Cocodrilo, El Mirador and El Calavera are frequenty identified by the expedition’s guides, so everybody on the raft can enjoy their magnificence. The abundant waterfalls and shakes add more action to this experience and the raft occupants can not have enough of them.
This kind of extreme activity provides infinite pleasure and amusement to those who try it. Every guest at the Mendoza’s 5 Stars Hotel has experienced the uniqueness of these magical landscapes and the amazing attractions in the province.
Javier Kravalosky 