Atuel Canyon

Atuel Canyon is a river gorge that cuts through the landscape for many kilometers, shaped by the Atuel River and wind erosion working together over time. The canyon walls display layers of rock in different colors and textures that reveal the geological story of the place.

The river was transformed starting in the 1940s with the building of dams and power stations that regulate water flow. These structures fundamentally altered how the water moves through the canyon.

The canyon functions as a recreation area where people come to climb, hike, and mountain bike throughout the year. It draws visitors seeking outdoor adventure in a natural setting.

The canyon is reached via National Route 40 with various lodging options including hotels and camping near the entrance. The best time for water activities like rafting depends on the season and water conditions.

The water drops steeply through the gorge creating rapids of varying difficulty levels that make it a challenging rafting destination. Experienced paddlers return repeatedly to experience these different conditions.

Location: San Rafael

Address: RP173, San Rafael, Mendoza, Argentina

GPS coordinates: -34.88333,-68.58333

Latest update: December 6, 2025 16:02