Potrerillos Dam and Lake Mendoza Argentina
A stunning blue lake set against arid mountains, offering water sports and breathtaking scenery just a short drive from Mendoza.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Potrerillos Dam and Lake Mendoza Argentina
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning blue lake set against arid mountains, offering water sports and breathtaking scenery just a short drive from Mendoza.
"A beautiful postcard of an arid environment, water sports at your fingertips, and magnificent photography."
🚗 Easy Access from Mendoza
The new road makes getting to Potrerillos a breeze, just 40km away!
☀️ Bring Your Own Shade
There's not much natural shade, so an umbrella is a must for a comfortable day.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Potrerillos Dam
The main reservoir
A stunning blue expanse against an arid landscape, perfect for water sports and photography.
Lake Activities
Various points along the lake
Rent kayaks, paddleboards, or simply enjoy a refreshing dip in the cool waters.
Scenic Road Views
Route 7
The drive to Potrerillos offers breathtaking mountain vistas and unique tunnels.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Heat
Pack Smart for a Day Out
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Easy Access from Mendoza
The new road makes getting to Potrerillos a breeze, just 40km away!
☀️ Bring Your Own Shade
There's not much natural shade, so an umbrella is a must for a comfortable day.
🛶 Water Sports Galore
Kayaks and paddleboards are available for rent, perfect for exploring the lake.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Essential to bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Easy Access from Mendoza
The new road makes getting to Potrerillos a breeze, just 40km away!
☀️ Bring Your Own Shade
There's not much natural shade, so an umbrella is a must for a comfortable day.
🛶 Water Sports Galore
Kayaks and paddleboards are available for rent, perfect for exploring the lake.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Essential to bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months.
♻️ Keep It Clean
Please take your trash with you to help preserve this beautiful spot.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Potrerillos Dam and Lake is praised for its stunning natural beauty and recreational opportunities, particularly water sports. Visitors appreciate the easy access from Mendoza and the scenic drive. However, some note the lack of shade and limited infrastructure, recommending visitors come prepared with their own supplies.
"Melo"
HARRISON ESTID GUARACA ROMERO
"It's very easy to get there from Mendoza via the new road. It's only 40 km. Keep in mind that there isn't much shade or infrastructure near the reservoir. It's a good idea to bring an umbrella, lounge chairs, and other supplies. There are a few places to rent kayaks and paddleboards. I recommend it."
Maria Florencia Grimaldi
"The road through Cacheuta is impeccable, you can find places to eat, have a drink and go to the bathroom (chemical bathroom), no small detail: they charge you $50 pesos, but using a bathroom is priceless. Very busy place on weekends and holidays, lots of youth and families. Very good place to enjoy the outdoors."
SanFra 80
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
It's a straightforward drive from Mendoza via the new road, approximately 40 km. Many visitors also take tours that include stops at Potrerillos.
While public transport options might be limited, many visitors opt for car rentals or organized tours for convenience and flexibility.
The road is generally in excellent condition, offering scenic views, including unique tunnels along the way.
Yes, numerous tour operators in Mendoza offer excursions to Potrerillos, often combined with other regional attractions.
While some visitors have explored the region with electric skateboards, it's best to check local regulations and road conditions for safety.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no explicit entrance fee mentioned for accessing the lake area itself, but some facilities like restrooms may have a small charge.
The area is generally accessible during daylight hours, but it's advisable to check for any specific seasonal or event-related closures.
Advance booking is typically not required for general access to the lake area, but it's recommended for organized tours or specific activities like rafting.
While the dam itself is a significant structure, access to the surrounding lake and recreational areas is generally permitted.
Excursion prices can vary, with some tours to Potrerillos priced around $80,500 Argentine Pesos in 2025.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and simply relaxing by the water. Some adventure activities like rafting are also available.
Yes, the lake is suitable for swimming, with designated areas and lifeguards present during peak times.
There are some places to eat and drink along the road, particularly in the Cacheuta area, but options directly at the lake are limited.
Facilities are minimal. Bring your own shade, chairs, and supplies. Chemical restrooms are available in nearby areas and may have a small fee.
Yes, it's a popular spot for families to enjoy outdoor activities and cool off in the lake.
📸 📸 Photography
The dam itself, the expansive lake, and the surrounding mountain scenery offer stunning photographic opportunities. Don't miss the unique tunnels on the approach. +1
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful contrasts and capture the landscape's dramatic beauty.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife or distant mountain details.
The drive itself, with its distinctive tunnels and mountain backdrops, provides many iconic photo opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of sun protection, including umbrellas and hats, as shade is limited. Bringing snacks and drinks is also a good idea, as on-site food options can be scarce. The scenic drive with its tunnels is also an exciting part of the adventure for younger travelers.
🚗 Day-Trippers from Mendoza
To maximize your day, consider going on a weekday to avoid larger crowds. Pack a picnic or grab a quick bite in the nearby Cacheuta area. Don't forget essentials like sunscreen, water, and an umbrella for comfort.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The unique tunnels on the approach road are also iconic photo spots. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to encompass the expansive scenery and a telephoto lens for capturing details of the dam or distant peaks.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Engineering Marvel: Potrerillos Dam
The dam's presence transforms the arid environment into a vibrant recreational area. The sheer scale of the dam and the vastness of the lake are impressive sights, offering a dramatic contrast to the surrounding mountains. It's a testament to human ingenuity in harnessing natural resources.
While the dam is an engineering feat, the focus for visitors is often on the recreational opportunities the resulting lake provides. The visual impact of the dam, especially when viewed from the road or the lake itself, is a key part of the Potrerillos experience.
Adventures on Lake Potrerillos
For those seeking more adrenaline, rafting excursions are also offered in the vicinity, promising an exciting way to experience the region's waterways. The lake's size and relatively calm waters make it suitable for various skill levels, from beginners to more experienced adventurers.
Beyond organized sports, simply swimming in the lake is a refreshing way to cool off, especially on warm days. The presence of lifeguards and delimited swimming areas adds a layer of safety for families.
The Journey: Scenic Drives and Tunnels
These tunnels are not just functional; they offer dramatic visual moments, with the sudden transition from bright sunlight to cool darkness and back again. Many visitors capture photos and videos of these unique passages, highlighting them as a memorable part of the trip.
Beyond the tunnels, the road winds through arid terrain, offering panoramic views of the Andes. This scenic route makes the journey to Potrerillos as enjoyable as the destination itself, providing ample opportunities for photography and appreciating the natural beauty of Mendoza.
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