Cañón del Atuel

Nature spots ·San Rafael ·Open now

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About

Canon del Atuel is a narrow canyon in Valle Grande, 37 km from San Rafael, Mendoza, known for rafting and rock figures.

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Cañón del Atuel

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Why go

  • The rock figures El Mendigo and El Elefante, carved by water and wind along the canyon
  • Horse rides, motorbike, mountain bike and 4x4 trips through the canyon

Opening hours

Today00:00 – 23:59Show all
Monday00:00 – 23:59
Tuesday00:00 – 23:59
Wednesday00:00 – 23:59
Thursday00:00 – 23:59
Friday00:00 – 23:59
Saturday00:00 – 23:59
Sunday00:00 – 23:59

Shorts

Interesting facts3

1/3
  1. 815 metres

    It sits at an altitude of 815 metres above sea level.

    Visit Argentina - Cañón del Atuel
  2. 9,600 hectares

    The area covers 9,600 hectares.

    Visit Argentina - Cañón del Atuel
  3. Its rapids are rated from class II to class IV.

    Atuel Canyon - Wikipedia

History

The canyon was formed by river and wind erosion over millions of years. It is one of the oldest rock formations in the Andes Cordillera, and its figures were carved by water and wind. Vialidad Mendoza and the Dirección Provincial de Hidráulica rebuilt it in stages, and the worst section was rebuilt from scratch.

  1. millions of years agoWater and wind carve the canyon's rock figures over millions of years.
  2. 11 de eneroA flood washes away 8 km of the canyon road.
  3. 15 de julioThe whole canyon road reopens to traffic.

Tips for your visit

  • Plan two to three days for the visit, since the route covers more than fifty kilometres.
  • Bring warm clothing for low temperatures.
  • Take the traditional outing from Valle Grande to El Nihuil.

Best time to visit

  • The winter holidays are a busy period in San Rafael.
  • The climate is cold and dry, with low temperatures.

Know before you go

  • Open 24 hours a day, every day of the week.
  • The canyon road runs one way, from Valle Grande toward Central Hidroeléctrica 1.
  • The maximum speed on the road is 40 km per hour.
  • Motorbikes, cars, vans and minibuses up to 10 metres long may use the road.
  • The provincial government advises against driving on the road at night.

Sources: Visit Argentina - Cañón del Atuel · Atuel Canyon - Wikipedia · El martes 15 de julio quedará habilitada la rut… · checked 25 Oct 2026

Where
Ruta Provincial 173, San Rafael

Plan from here: Evening walk →

Questions and answers

How far is Canon del Atuel from San Rafael?

The canyon lies about 37 km from San Rafael, reached by Ruta Provincial 173. The canyon circuit runs on that provincial road.

How long does a visit to Canon del Atuel take?

Two to three days is the recommended visit length. The route covers more than fifty kilometres, with many carved rock figures along the way.

What time does Canon del Atuel open?

Canon del Atuel is open 24 hours a day, every day of the week. The provincial government advises against driving on the canyon road at night.

Can you drive the Canon del Atuel road yourself?

Motorbikes, cars, vans and minibuses up to 10 metres long may use the road. Traffic runs one way, from Valle Grande toward Central Hidroeléctrica 1, at no more than 40 km per hour.

What can you do at Canon del Atuel?

Rafting, kayaking, canopy, windsurfing, climbing and catamaran rides are offered. Horse rides, motorbike, mountain bike and 4x4 trips are also available.

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