- Address: Ruta Provincial 39, Mendoza, Argentina
In the wine province of Mendoza, which is located almost on the border with the Chilean cities of Santiago and Los Andes, there is a small valley of Uspilyat. It - like a green oasis among the mountains, which attracts its history and unsolved mysteries.
The History of the Uspilyat
From colonial times, this valley was used as a pass after a long passage through the Andes. At that time, to get from Cape Horn to Buenos Aires , it was necessary to swim for 11 days on the sea. It was much easier to go through the Andes, bypassing Uspulyat.
In 1817 the valley played an important role in the campaign for the liberation of Chile from the Spanish Empire.
Nature of Uspolyaty
The valley is located in the mountains, where it is surrounded by picturesque streams. An arid climate is typical for this region, which significantly affects its biodiversity. On the territory of Uspalyat, low shrubs grow, which serve as habitats for iguanas, guanacos and small predators like foxes and coyotes.
Recreation and entertainment Успальяты
This charming valley attracts lovers of hiking and eco-tourism supporters. In a nearby village, also called Uspulyata, you can rent a horse or bicycle. This is necessary in order to:
- take a walk in the picturesque valley;
- admire the snow caps of mountain peaks;
- to get acquainted with the flora and fauna of the Argentine province;
- to visit mysterious caves;
- to study the ancient petroglyphs on their walls.
Lovers of long trips can head high into the mountains, where the monument to Christ the Redeemer is located . It was erected on March 13, 1904 in honor of the conclusion of an amicable agreement between Argentina and Chile.
After such a walk, you should return to the village. There is a bank, shops and entertainment centers. In local institutions you can always hear myths and legends about the Indian tribes who once settled the Uspulyat valley.
Fans of outdoor activities, depending on the season, can rent ski equipment or a fishing rod to go to the ski slopes or to go fishing.
How to get to Usplyaty?
The valley is in the west of Argentina, almost on its border with Chile. The closest major city is Mendoza (the capital of the province of the same name). From it to Usplyaty 50 km directly, but this route passes through the mountains. If traveling by detour, the distance is approximately 185-200 km.
You can reach Uspalyta only by car. To do this, follow the routes RN7 or RP52. Under favorable road conditions, the whole journey takes 2.5-4 hours.