Penitentes is a ski resort at 2,580 meters on Route 7, 165 km from Mendoza (lat -32.8256, lng -69.8622). With 28 runs for all levels, a summit of 3,194 m and 300 skiable hectares, it is the closest ski resort to Mendoza and a more affordable alternative to Las Lenas. The name comes from rock formations that, when covered in snow, resemble penitent monks. The view of Mount Aconcagua (6,961 m) from the slopes is unique. Season: June to September. Combinable with Puente del Inca (15 km) and the Cristo Redentor (45 km).
Getting there — distances & times
| From | Distance | Flight | Bus | Drive |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New York (JFK) | 8300 km | 11 h + 2 h layover | — | — |
| Madrid (MAD) | 10200 km | 13 h + 2 h layover | — | — |
| Buenos Aires (EZE) | 1050 km | 1 h 45 | 14 h | 11 h |
| Santiago (SCL) | 370 km | 55 min | 6–8 h | 5 h |
| Córdoba | 670 km | 1 h 10 | 9 h | 7 h |
| San Juan | 170 km | — | 2 h 30 | 2 h |
| Bariloche (BRC) | 1140 km | 1 h 50 | 18 h | 14 h |
Month-by-month climate
| Month | Temp. | Rain | Crowds | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 18° / 33°C | 25 mm | Hot & dry summer | |
| Feb | 17° / 31°C | 30 mm | ||
| Mar | 14° / 28°C | 20 mm | Harvest season | |
| Apr | 10° / 23°C | 15 mm | ||
| May | 5° / 18°C | 8 mm | ||
| Jun | 2° / 14°C | 5 mm | ||
| Jul | 2° / 14°C | 8 mm | Ski Las Leñas | |
| Aug | 4° / 17°C | 8 mm | ||
| Sep | 7° / 21°C | 12 mm | Vineyard bloom | |
| Oct | 11° / 25°C | 15 mm | ||
| Nov | 14° / 28°C | 20 mm | ||
| Dec | 17° / 31°C | 25 mm |
How to Get There
Route 7 west from Mendoza. Fully paved but may require snow chains in winter. 2.5-3 hours. Day trip excursions from Mendoza: USD 80-120 all-inclusive.
What to See and Do
Alpine Skiing
28 runs across three levels (green, blue, red). Base at 2,580 m, summit 3,194 m, 614 m vertical drop. Dry powder snow at altitude. Unmatched Aconcagua views from the slopes.
Snowboarding
Snowpark with halfpipe, rails and jumps. Open upper runs ideal for freeriding.
Ski School
Classes for all levels. Full equipment rental at the base. Package (lesson + gear + lift pass): USD 50-70 per day.
When to Visit
- July: Argentine winter holidays. Peak crowds, best snow. Book ahead.
- August: Excellent snow, fewer people. Best value.
Practical Information
Prices
Day lift pass: USD 30-50. Full equipment rental: USD 20-30/day. Significantly cheaper than Las Lenas.
