San Rafael pushes tourism boost with rafting capital bill and record winter occupancy

The provincial legislature in Mendoza introduced a bill to officially designate San Rafael as the Capital Provincial of Rafting. The proposal highlights the city’s long‑standing role in the sport, its extensive infrastructure along the Atuel River, and the economic benefits generated by dozens of local operators, guides and related businesses.

The tourism department reported that the recent winter vacation period ended with strong performance: apart‑hotels reached 94% occupancy, hotels 74%, and cabins over 50%. Visitor surveys showed high satisfaction, and officials credited the results to coordinated public‑private promotion, including regional wine and product tastings that boosted local consumption.