Mendoza Hot Springs: Cacheuta Thermal Baths Guide (2024)
Located in the foothills of the Andes Mountains, Mendoza, with a great reputation for its Malbec wines, is a destination that offers much more than wine tasting in wineries.
After traveling around Argentina for 7 months as backpackers, we decided to settle in Mendoza for two months. During this time, we were able to get to know many places in the city and its surroundings. For this reason, I can say that one of the hidden gems of the region are Mendoza’s hot springs. These hot springs are a great opportunity to disconnect and relax after a day of hiking in Mendoza.
In recent years, Mendoza has become a popular destination frequented by tourists looking to connect with the surrounding nature and cultural offerings of the city. The popularity of the region’s thermal baths has also grown considerably during this time. The truth is that it is a great feeling to enjoy the benefits of the warm thermal waters while enjoying the views of the snow-capped Andes.
In this guide, I’ll explain everything you need to know to enjoy Mendoza’s hot springs with peace of mind. Let’s get to it!
If you are planning a trip to Argentina, you have to read my full Argentina travel guide.
- Where to Find the Best Mendoza Hot Springs
- What is the Difference Between the Cacheuta Water Park and Cacheuta Thermal Baths?
- Parque de Agua Termal – Cacheuta Water Park
- Hotel & Spa – Cacheuta Thermal Baths
- Organized Tours for Mendoza Hot Springs
- How Do I Get To Cacheuta Thermal Baths From Mendoza?
- Best Time to Visit Mendoza Hot Springs
- What to Pack for Your Mendoza Hot Springs Trip
- Where to Eat Near Mendoza Hot Springs
- Tips for a Perfect Day at Mendoza Hot Springs
- Where to Stay Near Mendoza Hot Springs
- Final Thoughts
- FAQs on Mendoza Hot Springs
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Where to Find the Best Mendoza Hot Springs
When it comes to Mendoza hot springs, there are several options to choose from, although not all of them are easily accessible. Let’s explore some of the best places to visit during your trip.
Las Termas de los Molles Hot Springs
In the Uco Valley, the Andes Mountains hide the Termas de los Molles hot springs. They’re a little off the beaten path, but well worth the journey.
Before continuing, it’s important to note that only hotel guests can access these hot springs. If you’re looking for romantic getaways in Mendoza with hot springs or a relaxing weekend, believe me, this is the ideal place.
The hotel facilities feature several pools of different temperatures. Additionally, they offer spa treatments, yoga classes, and various gastronomic options, guaranteeing a complete and unique experience.
The best of all is the location. Feeling the warmth of the thermal waters, surrounded by vineyards and enjoying the view of the snow-capped Andes while listening to the sounds of nature is priceless. I’m not exaggerating; it’s pure bliss.
To reach Termas de los Molles, you’ll need to rent a car or hire a private excursion, as public transportation isn’t available.
To avoid overcrowding, especially during high season, the hotel follows an advance booking policy, so check availability well in advance.
Cacheuta Hot Springs
The most famous hot springs in Mendoza are the ones in Cacheuta, since they offer options for all audiences and are closer to the city.
What is the Difference Between the Cacheuta Water Park and Cacheuta Thermal Baths?
If Cacheuta has caught your attention, and you start researching online, you might feel a bit lost due to the confusing information.
First, it’s important to know that you have two main options to enjoy hot springs in Cacheuta, one public and the other private. Both alternatives are located in the same area.
Basic Information for Cacheuta Thermal Baths
- Opening hours: 10am to 6pm.
- Calls: +54 261 5191676 (calls only) or +54 2624 490112 (calls from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM)
- WhatsApp: +54 261 7035311 (WhatsApp only)
- Address: PROV. ROUTE Nº82 KM 39, CACHEUTA MENDOZA – ARGENTINA
Parque de Agua Termal – Cacheuta Water Park
The Cacheuta Thermal Water Park is a public and more affordable option, frequented mostly by locals. From the outdoor pools, you can enjoy stunning views of the Mendoza River and the Andes Mountains.
A visit to the Cacheuta Water Park is an excellent way to experience the benefits of Mendoza’s thermal springs. It’s ideal for families with children or those who want to combine fun and games with their thermal spa experience.
Opening hours: Open every day of the year from 10am to 6pm.
- Summer Season: from September to Easter, the Thermal Water Park is open in its entirety.
- Winter Season: from Easter to September, only the upper-level pools are open.
Crowd level: In high season, there are many people, and tickets can be sold out at the box office, so it is advisable to buy tickets in advance. In low season it is not necessary.
What Can You Expect From Cacheuta Water Park?
Children’s Area
Circular outdoor pool with thermal water at low temperature (18ºC) with slides and fountains with jets for children’s entertainment.
Outdoor Thermal Pools
You will find several thermal water pools in the outdoor area, distributed on two levels: the lower one and the upper one.
On the upper level you will find larger stone pools than those on the lower level, as they are intended for adults, with temperatures between 28ºC and 35ºC. In addition, there is also a short slide.
On the lower level, you will find small stone thermal pools with temperatures ranging from 20ºC to 35ºC. This area is suitable for everyone, so you will find more children. From Easter to September they are closed.
Indoor Thermal Pools
Open all year round, inside the building there are several indoor thermal pools with water temperatures between 28ºC and 43ºC. In some of them, you will find stone armchairs to enjoy lying inside the pool. In summer, it can be quite unbearable with the high outside temperature.
Lazy River
Okay, I admit it, I have a kid in me.
The lazy river is my favorite area of the entire Thermal Water Park. It is a 270-meter-long river with a depth of just over 1.5 meters and a thermal water temperature of about 18 °C.
You can grab a foam tube, float and let the current of the river slowly sweep you along while enjoying the views of the Andes Mountains. Unfortunately, it is only open from September 21 until Easter.
Wave Pool
Circular pool of thermal water with a temperature of 18ºC. The pool is shallow and has a 10-meter-high jet fountain in the center, plus 2 slides. It is only open from September 21 until Easter.
Lockers
Next to the supermarket, near the entrance, there is a locker area where you can leave your personal belongings safe. Lockers are not included in the entrance fee. You will have to pay extra to rent one for the whole day at the supermarket, where you will be assigned a locker and given the key.
Changing Rooms
Between the indoor thermal pool area and the covered picnic area, there are restrooms and changing rooms for changing clothes and hot showers.
Picnic Area
Behind the locker and changing area, you will find a “Quincho”, which is a covered picnic area with tables and a heating system in winter. Grills are also available in the picnic area on a first-come, first-served basis.
On the lower level, there is another outdoor picnic area with tables and benches for resting and lunch breaks.
Supermarket
At the entrance you will find a small supermarket where you can pay for the rental of lockers, tables, chairs and umbrellas.
Don’t expect a great variety of products, but they do sell basic things like drinks, ice cream, ice, firewood, cookies and a few other things.
Adventure Activities
In addition to hot springs, Termas de Cacheuta offers the possibility of adventure activities with the purchase of different packs that include the entrance to the thermal water park.
Some of these activities that you can hire are artificial wall climbing, rappel on a 37-meter wall, 180-meter zip line, rafting on the Mendoza River, tree adventure and trekking on mountain trails.
How Much Does It Cost Go To The Cacheuta Water Park?
Below, you can see a table with prices updated as of June 2024. Please note that Cacheuta hot springs prices can change frequently due to inflation in Argentina.
- You can pay with Visa or Mastercard and cash.
- You can buy the ticket at the ticket office or buy the entrance on their website.
| Ages | Monday to Friday | Saturday, Sunday, and Holidays |
|---|---|---|
| Entry for ages 11 and older | $7,000.00 | $7,500.00 |
| Entry for ages 3 to 10 | $6,500.00 | $7,000.00 |
| Entry + Transport for ages 11 and older | $20,000.00 | $20,500.00 |
| Entry + Transport for ages 3 to 10 | $19,500.00 | $20,000.00 |
| Transport for 2-year-olds | $13,000.00 | $13,000.00 |
Not included: lockers, towels and robes.
Transfer Option: Cacheuta Thermal Baths offers the option of a transfer from Mendoza to the hot springs for an extra fee per person. In high season, the transfer departs from Plaza Independencia at 9am and returns from Cacheuta at 6pm. In low season, it departs from Mendoza at 9.30am, and the return time is at 5:30pm from the Water Park.
Hotel & Spa – Cacheuta Thermal Baths
Located 800 meters from the Cacheuta Thermal Water Park is the Cacheuta Thermal Baths Hotel & Spa, offering a more secluded experience away from the crowds.
This option is more exclusive and less frequented, making it ideal for those seeking relaxation and a wellness retreat.
The Cacheuta hotel offers various room types at different price points, with meals and access to the thermal baths included in the rate.
You can check the prices of the hotel by clicking here.
If you don’t plan to stay at the hotel and only want to enjoy the Cacheuta Thermal Baths, you can purchase a separate entrance ticket.
What Can You Expect From TermaSpa?
The Cacheuta Thermal Baths facilities are separate from the Water Park and include more than 10 natural pools with hydrotherapy and thermal waters ranging from 20ºC to 43ºC.
Don’t miss the mud bath experience. Apply the mud to your skin, let it dry in the sun, and then rinse it off in the shower to experience all the benefits this therapy offers.
Massages are also available for an additional fee.
Inside the hotel, you’ll find a restaurant serving the famous Almuerzo Criollo, a buffet of regional dishes including a barbecue with local vegetables and greens.
What Options Are Available in Cacheuta Thermal Baths Hotel&Spa?
Termas Cacheuta offers various packages to enjoy both the hotel and spa together or separately. Spa options include:
TermaSpa Full Day
Access to the spa from 10am to 6pm
Includes Criollo Buffet Lunch
Towel provided
Optional transfer with an additional cost of $ARS 12,000
Capacity: 50 people
Entrance Fee: $ARS 60,000
Opening Hours: Open every day of the year from 10am to 6pm
BUY TICKETTermaSpa Afternoon
Spa access from 3pm to 6pm
Towel provided
Capacity: 20 people
Entrance Fee: $ARS 35,000
Opening Hours: Open every day of the year from 10am to 6pm
BUY TICKETCrowd level: Since there is limited availability, it is not as crowded as the water park. However, make sure to reserve your ticket in advance so you don’t run out of availability.
Organized Tours for Mendoza Hot Springs
While there are currently no tours available for the Water Park, several interesting experiences are offered for the Cacheuta Thermal Baths.
5-Day Private Luxury Trip
If you are traveling for several days to Mendoza and you are looking to get to know the region with different activities, without worrying about anything, this pack is ideal for you. The complete experience includes:
4 nights accommodation in a 5* hotel room.
Private guides for different activities
Private transportation to and from the airport
4 breakfasts, 2 lunches.
The activities included in these 5 days are:
Visit to Cacheuta Hot Springs
Private visit to a winery and wine tasting
Private excursion to the mountains to visit Uspallata, Puente del Inca, and Aconcagua National Park.
BOOK NOWPremium Spa Day
If you are just looking to enjoy the Cacheuta Hot Springs, this pack includes:
Entrance to the TermaSpa
Lunch
Mud therapy
Sauna
Private transportation to pick you up and drop off at the door of the hotel.
BOOK NOWCacheuta Hot Springs + Wine Tasting
Finally, if you want to take advantage of the day to do several activities of interest in the area, this quite complete tour includes:
Pickup and drop-off in private transportation from your location.
Visit and wine tasting at the Lamadrid winery in the morning.
Lunch of an authentic Argentinean asado.
Entrance and access to Cacheuta TermaSpa in the afternoon.
BOOK NOWHow Do I Get To Cacheuta Thermal Baths From Mendoza?
One of the most common questions about visiting Mendoza hot springs is how to get there. Here’s a spoiler: Getting to Cacheuta is half the fun. You have several options, depending on your budget and preferences.
Traveling by Car to Cacheuta Thermal Baths
If your budget allows it, renting a car will open the doors to many places around Mendoza. If that is your case, I advise you that getting by car to the Cacheuta Thermal Baths is the best option for several reasons:
- Mendoza to Cacheuta hot springs distance is 22 miles, approximately 45 minutes of driving.
- You will not be limited to public transportation schedules, and you will be free to stop at different points of interest along the route.
- The road has beautiful views, and you will find viewpoints to see different perspectives of the Andes Mountains.
- The driving directions are simple. Follow Route 7 west from Mendoza.
- There are plenty of parking options near the hot springs. It is usually free, although during the high season they may charge a small fee.
- On the other hand, although the route is simple and in good condition, it goes through the mountains, so there will be some sections with sharp curves.
Taking a Bus to Cacheuta Thermal Baths From Mendoza
Of course, it is the most economical option for your pocket and the most sustainable for the planet. Besides, the bus will leave you at the entrance of the hot springs, where the bus stop is.
Luckily, the Mendoza-Cacheuta route is covered by Andesmar buses leaving from the Mendoza bus station.
- Departure times from Mendoza are 6am, 8.25am, 9am, 9.10am, 10.30am, 12am, 12.50am, 13.30am, 16.30am, 17.30am, 20.15am and 21am.
- The trip takes 1 hour, and the ticket price is $ARS 2000, approximately $1.8 with today’s exchange rate.
- You can buy the ticket at the bus terminal or directly buy the ticket on the Andesmar website
Taxi/Uber Options for Reaching Cacheuta Thermal Baths
If you are looking for a comfortable option and without having to travel a lot, you can consider this option. However, it is the most expensive option of all. If you have several people to share the cost, it can be quite profitable.
In Mendoza, there is Uber availability and usually has cheaper prices than the competition. It will depend on where you are located in Mendoza, but the estimated cost for a one-way trip will be between $ARS 18,000 and $ARS 25,000.
You can also consider the option of contacting traditional cabs or a remis company, which are cheaper underground cabs.
Best Time to Visit Mendoza Hot Springs
The ideal season to enjoy Mendoza hot springs depends on your preferences and travel availability.
In my opinion, the spring months offer the best experience for several reasons: it’s less crowded, and all pools and attractions are open.
Remember that from Easter to September, part of the water thermal park is closed.
However, each season has its advantages and disadvantages, which I will break down below:
SUMMER (December to February)
Warm and sunny weather, ideal for enjoying the outdoors.
More daylight hours.
Thermal Park fully open.
High crowd level of people every day.
Higher prices for food and souvenirs.
WINTER (June to August)
The hot springs are very appealing with the contrast of the cold weather.
The mountains can be snow-capped, so the scenery can be spectacular.
Low crowd level of people.
Lower prices.
The park has one of the levels closed.
SPRING (September to November)
The weather is ideal to enjoy all the pools, being neither hot nor cold.
There are not as many people as in summer.
The entire Thermal Park is open.
No cons.
AUTUMN (March to May)
Early fall, weather is still pleasant.
Fewer crowds.
Prices go down.
The Thermal Park has one of the levels closed.
At the end of the season, it gets very cold.
What to Pack for Your Mendoza Hot Springs Trip
Good planning will enhance your experience. Here’s a Mendoza hot springs packing list:
- Swimsuit: It seems pretty obvious, doesn’t it? Choose a comfortable one since you will be wearing it all day long.
- Flip Flops: They may seem dispensable, but when you see how slippery the wet ground is, you’ll thank me for reminding you.
- Towel: If you have a low Budget like us and don’t want to spend on renting one, take your own.
- Sunscreen: Even if it’s cloudy or doesn’t look sunny, the sun is strong in Argentina.
- Food/Snacks: You have options to eat there, but if you want to save…
- Water bottle: It is very important to stay hydrated. The day is long, and it is quite hot.
- Hat and sunglasses: Extra sun protection is always a good idea.
- Extra change of clothes: When the day is over, you will appreciate changing your swimsuit for comfortable clothes.
- Toiletries: Shampoo, conditioner and body wash.
- Money: Always carry some cash in case they don’t accept card payments in the stores or restaurants outside.
Where to Eat Near Mendoza Hot Springs
After a relaxing morning soaking in the Cacheuta thermal pools, you’re bound to be hungry. Fortunately, there are options for everyone.
Firstly, if you have chosen the TermaSpa full day pack or are staying at the hotel, you won’t have to worry about food, since the entrance fee includes the well-known “Almuerzo Criollo” lunch at Termas Cacheuta’s restaurant, which includes a wood-fired “asado” with vegetables and homemade sweets.
If this is not your case, here you have different options to eat, ordered from lower to higher budget:
- Picnic Area: If you bring your own food or snacks, you can use the tables that are distributed around the place, or the “Quinchos” with tables and benches available. You have a covered area with a heating system in winter and an outdoor area.
- Barbecue: In the “Quincho” closest to the entrance, grills are available for all guests on a first-come, first-served basis. If this is your idea, try to arrive early, as it is usually a very popular option.
- Mercado Andino: Inside the Cacheuta Thermal Baths, you can access a restaurant that offers a menu of the day, sandwiches, salads and cold meats to share that you can eat in the restaurant itself or order takeout and eat in any space of the Park.
- Restaurants: Cacheuta is not very big, but it has quite a few options for eating in restaurants outside the Water Thermal Park. Most of them are located on the main street, and there are options for all tastes and budgets. If you decide to eat in a restaurant, you cannot miss the opportunity to taste an asado (Argentine barbecue), empanadas (Savory pastries filled with meat, vegetables or cheese) or locro (stew) with a glass of local Malbec wine.
You can read reviews about the restaurants in Cacheuta on TripAdvisor.
Tips for a Perfect Day at Mendoza Hot Springs
To make the most of your experience at Cacheuta Thermal Baths, here are my top recommendations:
- Arrive early: Especially in high season, there are quite a few people during the day. Early in the morning, it is not so crowded, and you will be able to choose the best spots.
- Stay Hydrated: It is very easy to get dehydrated in hot pools. That’s why it is highly recommended to drink water frequently.
- Protect yourself from the sun: Although the day may seem cloudy, the sun’s radiation is strong.
- Eat lightly: If you overdo it with food, hot water can be very uncomfortable on a full stomach.
- Protect your personal belongings: The best option is to rent lockers, but if you prefer not to spend money on that, take good care of your belongings.
- Plan your return trip: Do it in advance, as you may find that all tickets are sold out in high season.
Where to Stay Near Mendoza Hot Springs
If you plan to stay for several days and enjoy Mendoza hot springs and its surroundings, the best option is to stay in the city itself.
Mendoza offers accommodations for all budgets. For solo travelers, a hostel with shared rooms is the most economical option.
However, due to the popularity of hostels and the hype among backpackers, they are no longer as economical an option as in the past. If you are traveling with another person, it is often much cheaper to rent an apartment.
Hostels
Chill Inn Hostel
I don’t know it, but my friend Tahir stayed several days in this hostel and was delighted.
There are exclusive rooms with double beds and rooms to share with other travelers with 4 or 8 beds. The cheapest option is around $10 per night.
The location is excellent, as it is on Aristides Street, close to the center and where most of the restaurants and entertainment venues in the city are located.
If you are looking to experience Mendoza’s nightlife and meet other travelers, this is the place for you.
Panda Hostel
Another hostel located downtown, near General San Martín Park. It is quite popular because it accommodates travelers from all over the world and has competitive prices.
Gorilla Hostel
Perhaps the most popular hostel in the area that receives travelers from all over the world. An excellent place to meet backpackers. It is more expensive than the rest, precisely because of its popularity. It is located 2 blocks from Aristides and quite central.
Rooms
Migaloo Guest House
For 3 months, we were living in this coliving and it was a great experience.
It has private rooms (not beds in shared rooms) at different prices. It has a large kitchen for shared use and several spaces with tables and chairs.
For digital nomads, it is the best option. It has the fastest internet I have seen during our entire trip.
The location is excellent, as it is very central, 300 meters from Aristides, and a very safe area.
Mendoza Apartments
Another good option for medium budgets, with several alternatives depending on how many people and amenities are in this set of apartments. The location is not so central, being a bit far from San Martín Park.
Luxury
Diplomatic Hotel
Located on Belgrano Avenue, two blocks from the central square. It has a swimming pool, sauna, gym and buffet breakfast included in this hotel.
Park Hyatt Mendoza Casino
5-star hotel located in Plaza Independencia. It is impossible to find a more central location than this option. The building is impressive and there is a spa, fitness center, casino, restaurant and swimming pool.
Final Thoughts
After living in Mendoza for more than 2 months and getting to know the city and its surroundings, I can confirm that if you visit the region, you must reserve a day to go to Cacheuta Thermal Baths.
Wine tasting, hiking and enjoying Mendoza’s gastronomy are the most popular activities, but Mendoza’s hot springs are one of those hidden gems that will never cease to amaze you.
Beyond being just another attraction for tourists, you will enjoy a magical environment, surrounded by the Andes Mountains while you relax and enjoy the tranquility.
