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YPF Luján de Cuyo Refinery
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Industrial site
The YPF refinery in Luján de Cuyo, Mendoza, is the centerpiece of the oil and gas industry in western Argentina. It is strategically located near the productive oil fields of the Cuyo Basin and supplies fuels to the entire region as well as parts of Chile. The refinery is crucial for the processing of the crude oil extracted in Mendoza and produces a wide range of derivatives. It is an important economic factor for the province of Mendoza and a major employer. The plant has been continuously modernized over the years to increase production efficiency and improve environmental standards. The Luján de Cuyo refinery plays a key role in the national energy supply and is a central component of Mendoza's industrial heritage.
- Location: Argentina
- Top sights: Mirador · The Antiqua store craft · Bodegas Lúminis
- Nearby: Godoy Cruz (9 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Oct, Nov.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 26 | 24 | 21 | 16 | 12 | 9 | 8 | 10 | 14 | 18 | 22 | 24 |
| Rain mm | 47 | 49 | 37 | 28 | 19 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 15 | 32 | 30 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The YPF Luján de Cuyo Refinery in Mendoza processes crude oil from the Cuyo region and is a key fuel producer for western Argentina. It significantly contributes to the region's energy supply and is a major local employer.
Visiting
The refinery is not usually open to the public, as safety and operational procedures restrict access. However, the site can be viewed from surrounding roads, especially from Route 40 or Avenida San Martín.
Where to view it
An excellent spot to view the refinery is Cerro de la Gloria hill in General San Martín Park. From there, a wide panorama of the industrial facility unfolds against the striking backdrop of the Andes.
Local products
The area mainly produces gasoline, diesel, and liquefied petroleum gas, which are sold at gas stations across western Argentina. Travelers can indirectly use these products when driving through the region and refueling.
Active season
The refinery operates year-round, with production slightly increasing in winter due to higher demand for heating oil and gas. Maintenance work is often scheduled for the cooler months when consumption is lower.
Nearby
A refinery visit can be easily combined with a wine tasting at the Mendoza bodegas, as the region is famous for its Malbec wines. The city of Mendoza itself, with its squares and parks, also works well for a day trip.
Geography
Facts
- The second-largest refinery in Argentina after La Plata.
- Has a crude oil processing capacity of over 105,000 barrels per day.
- The primary fuel supplier for the center and west of the country.
- Famous for its high-tech desulfurization units for cleaner fuels.
- Located at the foot of the Andes, utilizing regional oil resources.
- A major producer of petroleum coke for the national market.
- Connected to a vast network of polyducts and oil pipelines.
- Inaugurated in 1940 and consistently modernized since then.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town YPF Luján de Cuyo Refinery (9)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What characterizes the YPF Luján de Cuyo refinery?
It is a key energy and fuel site in Mendoza. The refinery supplies the region with fuels and is important for industry across western Argentina.
Is the refinery open to tourists?
Usually no, because it is an active industrial facility with strict safety rules. If tours exist, they are rare and tied to special programs.
When is the Luján de Cuyo area worth visiting?
Best in spring or autumn, when Mendoza is mild and dry. Then you can combine the city, wineries, and an industrial stop easily.
What can you see nearby?
Very close by are Mendoza city, wineries, and the foothills of the Andes. For visitors, the area is more interesting as part of a larger circuit.
What does the refinery mean for Mendoza?
The site is key to western Argentina’s energy supply and a sign of Mendoza’s industrial side. It complements tourism and wine production.
YPF Luján de Cuyo Refinery: where is it located?
YPF Luján de Cuyo Refinery is located in Argentina.
YPF Luján de Cuyo Refinery: what is there to see?
Highlights include Mirador, The Antiqua store craft, Bodegas Lúminis.
YPF Luján de Cuyo Refinery: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Oct, Nov.
YPF Luján de Cuyo Refinery: why is it worth visiting?
The YPF refinery in Luján de Cuyo, Mendoza, is the centerpiece of the oil and gas industry in western Argentina.
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