Puente del Inca
Le Puente del Inca est un pont naturel situé dans la province de Mendoza en Argentine. Il a été formé par l'action érosive de la rivière Las Cuevas et est connu pour ses couleurs distinctives et ses formations rocheuses. Le site est également célèbre pour ses sources d'eau chaude naturelles, dont on pensait autrefois qu'elles avaient des propriétés curatives. Les visiteurs peuvent s'émerveiller devant le pont naturel unique, explorer les environs et se détendre dans les bains thermaux. Puente del Inca offre un mélange de beauté naturelle et de détente thermale, créant une expérience mémorable pour les voyageurs.
Emplacement et comment s'y rendre
Puente del Inca is a natural rock bridge spanning the Las Cuevas River, located approximately 180 km west of Mendoza, near the village of Potrerillos in the Cuyo region of Argentina. The site lies along National Route 7, the main highway connecting Mendoza to the Chilean border.
- By car: From Mendoza, take Route 7 west for about 2.5-3 hours. The bridge is visible from the road with parking nearby.
- By bus: Regular buses run from Mendoza to Puente del Inca (ask for the stop at the natural monument).
Heures d'ouverture et billets
The site is accessible year-round as it is a natural formation in an open area.
- No entrance fee is required to view the bridge from public areas.
- Access to the thermal springs beneath the bridge may require a small fee (subject to change).
Meilleur moment pour visiter
Morning light provides the best conditions for photography. Summer months (December-February) offer pleasant weather, though winter (June-August) creates striking contrasts with snow-covered Andes peaks.
Durée de la visite
Most visitors spend 30-60 minutes exploring the bridge and surrounding area. Those wishing to bathe in the thermal springs may stay longer.
Activités
- Photograph the iconic natural bridge with its striking mineral deposits
- View the remains of the historic thermal spa hotel
- Soak in the thermal springs (temperature varies by season)
- Visit the small chapel of Santa María de las Nieves
Installations
- Basic restrooms available
- Small vendors selling snacks and souvenirs
- Limited parking along the roadside
- Uneven terrain - not fully accessible for mobility-impaired visitors
Ce qu'il faut apporter
- Sturdy walking shoes for uneven paths
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen) as elevation is 2,720 meters
- Swimsuit and towel if planning to use thermal springs
- Water and snacks as options are limited
Règles et règlements
- Do not remove or damage the mineral formations
- Stay on designated paths for safety
- Supervise children closely near water and steep areas