Laguna del Diamante Reserve
A breathtaking high-altitude reserve in Mendoza, Argentina, featuring a stunning lagoon reflecting the majestic Maipo Volcano.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Reserve is typically open
Laguna del Diamante Reserve
Best Time
Reserve is typically open
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking high-altitude reserve in Mendoza, Argentina, featuring a stunning lagoon reflecting the majestic Maipo Volcano.
"A majestic place! It's worth the effort. You must make a reservation and don't forget to download your ticket because there's no phone service there."
🚗 High-Clearance Vehicle Recommended
While not always 4x4, a higher vehicle helps navigate the 150km of gravel roads. Drive slowly and patiently!
🧥 Pack Warm Layers
Even in summer, it's cold and windy. Bring jackets, hats, and sunscreen due to altitude and exposure.
Quick Facts
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Laguna del Diamante
Main Lagoon
A breathtaking, pristine lagoon reflecting the majestic Maipo Volcano. A truly awe-inspiring natural wonder.
Maipo Volcano
Dominating the landscape
This imposing volcano provides a dramatic backdrop to the lagoon, offering stunning photographic opportunities.
Wildlife Spotting
Throughout the reserve
Keep an eye out for guanacos, flamingos, condors, and foxes in their natural habitat.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check Opening Status & Reserve Ahead
Prepare for the Journey & Altitude
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 High-Clearance Vehicle Recommended
While not always 4x4, a higher vehicle helps navigate the 150km of gravel roads. Drive slowly and patiently!
🧥 Pack Warm Layers
Even in summer, it's cold and windy. Bring jackets, hats, and sunscreen due to altitude and exposure.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated to combat the effects of high altitude. No services available inside the reserve.
♻️ Leave No Trace
Carry out all your trash in the provided numbered bags. Respect the pristine environment.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 High-Clearance Vehicle Recommended
While not always 4x4, a higher vehicle helps navigate the 150km of gravel roads. Drive slowly and patiently!
🧥 Pack Warm Layers
Even in summer, it's cold and windy. Bring jackets, hats, and sunscreen due to altitude and exposure.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated to combat the effects of high altitude. No services available inside the reserve.
♻️ Leave No Trace
Carry out all your trash in the provided numbered bags. Respect the pristine environment.
🚫 No Drones Allowed
Enjoy the views with your eyes; drones are prohibited in the reserve.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Laguna del Diamante as a majestic and pristine natural wonder, worth the challenging journey. The breathtaking scenery, wildlife, and the imposing Maipo Volcano are major draws. However, the difficult road conditions and unpredictable, cold weather require thorough preparation.
"es CERRADO 😩 CLOSED !! = we could not find any information in internet. So we drove and found it cerrado! Such a shame!! Please, we are 15 more days here, where can I check, if its open ? = Si es abierto...?? Y donde puedo ver la realidad ? Gracias a todoas!"
Eva Graf
"FEVEREIRO/2025: Lugar paradisíaco. Para visitar tem que ver uma data válida no site do Parque Nacional, fazer a reserva e baixar o voucher que tem um código de barras, paga no mercado pago (que não funcionou para mim, brasileira), ou numa agência Pago Fácil/Western Union. Custou AR$7.000,00 pesos por pessoa, leve o comprovante junto. Tem horário para entrar. Quem vai de Mendoza sugiro se programar com umas 3 horas até a Laguna, pega bastante estrada de chão. No dia que fomos a estrada estava excelente, mas se prepare para muita poeira. Não precisa ser nenhum carro 4x4. Na entrada tem os guardas que vão verificar os documentos e dar algumas orientações. No dia que fomos tinha muito vento, muito, muito... cuidado ao abrir as portas do carro, usar boné ou chapéu, tudo voa. Estava muito frio, tipo uns 12 graus. Leve casaco, touca, protetor solar e muita água para não passar mal com a altitude. Não tem muita sombra. Quando você chega próximo à Laguna tem um posto com informações que auxiliam bastante. Próximo do acampamento tem menos vento e nas pedras adiante fica mais protegido também da ventania. Podemos ver muitos guanacos, flamingos. Tem condores também. Não pode usar drones. Te dão um saco numerado que deve carregar e colocar ali seus lixos e entregar na saída. Tudo é lindo, a estrada, as paisagens, o vulcão é majestoso. Conheça e cuide!"
Denise Felinberti
"A majestic place! It's worth the effort. You must make a reservation and don't forget to download your ticket because there's no phone service there.
The park rangers are excellent, and they show you the difficulties and things you can do there. We went in a rented Fiat Mobi. The road is very difficult, with two hours of gravel, but slowly and patiently, you'll get there. Don't be afraid; those who tell you it's only possible with a 4x4 are lying. Obviously, you're more comfortable with that type of vehicle. But do it; it's an incredible place far from any city or civilized area. You won't regret it. There isn't much shade here because it's severely damaged by the weather, but it's worth eating next to such an impressive place. I repeat, don't pass it up; you don't see such places every day, and I don't think you see them very often in a lifetime."
Pablo Mariano Sepliarsky
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The journey from Mendoza involves approximately 150 km of gravel road, taking 2-3 hours. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended, though not strictly a 4x4. Drive slowly and patiently, especially on the RP 98.
The road is challenging with significant gravel sections. While a Fiat Mobi made it, patience is key. Those with 4x4 vehicles will have a more comfortable experience.
It's possible but very slow and potentially difficult, especially if the road conditions are poor. A high-clearance vehicle is strongly advised for a day trip. For low-rise vehicles, consider a two-day trip.
Driving yourself in a suitable vehicle offers the most flexibility. Alternatively, tour companies like Huentata Tourism offer excursions from Mendoza.
No, there is no public transportation directly to the reserve. You will need a private vehicle or to join an organized tour.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, reservations are mandatory. You must check the National Park's website for valid dates, make a reservation, and download your voucher with a barcode.
The entrance fee was AR$7,000.00 pesos per person in February 2025. Payment options may include Mercado Pago, Pago Fácil, or Western Union.
It's crucial to check the official website of the National Park for current opening status and reservation availability. Information online can be scarce.
There are specific entry times. It's best to confirm these when making your reservation and check with park rangers upon arrival.
It is highly recommended to book and pay in advance online. Relying on purchasing tickets at the entrance is not advisable due to potential lack of service and availability.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Enjoy the stunning views of the lagoon and Maipo Volcano, spot wildlife like guanacos and flamingos, and take short treks. You can also camp overnight near the lagoon.
No, there is very little shade. The landscape is exposed and can be windy. Bring sun protection and be prepared for the elements.
You can commonly see guanacos, flamingos, condors, and foxes. They often appear unfazed by visitors.
Yes, there is a shelter near the lagoon for overnight stays. Be prepared for cold and windy conditions.
Facilities are minimal. There are park rangers and information points, but no shops or extensive services. Bring all your necessities.
🎫 🌡️ Weather & What to Pack
The weather can be extreme, with very strong winds and cold temperatures, even in summer (around 12 degrees Celsius). Be prepared for rapid changes.
Dress in layers. Essential items include a warm jacket, hat, gloves, and windproof clothing. Sunscreen is also crucial.
The main concerns are the challenging road conditions and the weather. Drive carefully, be prepared for the elements, and follow ranger instructions.
The reserve is at a high altitude. It's advisable to stay hydrated and take it easy to avoid altitude sickness.
Bring plenty of water, snacks, warm clothing, sun protection, a camera, and a full tank of gas. Don't forget your reservation voucher.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit