A 3 week exploration of Patagonia and the Lake District filled with pristine wilderness and awe-inspiring scenery. Wild Patagonia Classic 2009 GAP 6 12 Max 12, Avg 10 South America Chile, Argentina, Patagonia Buenos Aires Buenos Aires Argentina Argentina Culture/History, Trekking/Hiking 21 4 Basic http://www.gapadventures.com/images/banners/argentina/argentina_santacruz.jpg Arrive in Buenos Aires at any time. Fly to San Martin de los Andes, on the shores of Lake Lacar, for two days of exploration in the lake district. Options include hiking, mountain biking, rafting and 4x4 vehicle excursions. Journey south to Bariloche, situated on the banks of the famous Lake Nahuel Huapi. Take a day hike or hire a mountain bike to explore this outdoor playground, or just relax in a café while savouring Bariloche's world-famous chocolate. A scenic journey through the Andes takes you into the neighbouring Chilean Lake Region. Spend the night on the shore of Lake Llanquihue while the moon hangs over picture-perfect views of Osorno Volcano. Optional visit to Chiloe Island. Cruise through Chile’s majestic fjords and channels on the journey from Puerto Montt to Puerto Natales. Snow peaked mountains, waterways dotted with icebergs and unique marine wildlife make this a memorable voyage. Wake up early to hike through the surrounding countryside and to explore this small fishing town before heading to Torres del Paine National Park. Make sure to try the excellent, freshly-caught local seafood. Chilean Patagonia is an area that few people have the opportunity to see. Spend five days hiking in this spectacular park, with views of the Horns of Paine, the Towers and French Valley. Cross the border to Lake Argentino and the town of Calafate, and continue west to the dynamic Moreno Glacier, spotting condors, rheas, eagles or flamingos en route. Within Glacier National Park, Moreno's 60m (197 ft) wall of ice sporadically chokes off a small channel in the lake, creating a natural ice dam, which eventually explodes in a dynamic display of force. Fly to Buenos Aires and enjoy final night out on the town. Arrive in Buenos Aires at any time. Check into your hotel and enjoy the city as there are no planned activities.

The capital city of Argentina, Buenos Aires is the ultimate cosmopolitan city. Travellers find that it has more in common with the cities of Europe than the rest of South America. Nearly 40 per cent of Argentina's 33 million citizens live in Greater Buenos Aires, and the Porteños are justifiably proud of their home. The city is comprised of a number of distinct neighbourhoods, some of which have become top tourist draws. For many, the highlight of their time in the capital is a visit to San Telmo for the weekend antiques market and street artistís displays.

La Boca was originally settled by the successive waves of immigrants that contribute to the capital's unique character. Its brightly coloured walls and buildings draw Porteños and tourists alike, and it is here that the world-class football team, Boca Juniors, plies its trade. A Sunday afternoon match at the fabled Bombonera is not to be missed. Posh Recoleta, with its cafes, museums and cemetery, is a pleasant place to spend an afternoon.

During colonial days Buenos Aires was the seat of the Viceroy of La Plata. Almost completely rebuilt since the turn of the century, the heart of the city is the Plaza de Mayo, with the historic Cabildo (Town Hall), where the Independence movement was first planned, the Casa Rosada (Government Palace) and the Cathedral where San Martín, the father of Argentine independence, is buried.

After exploring the city, settle your weary feet and enjoy a drink in one of the many sidewalk cafes and restaurants where you can begin to understand the contemplative Argentine way of life. Buenos Aires will be your last chance to try the succulent bife and parrilladas, so dig in and enjoy! Take a short flight to San Martin de los Andes, on the shores of Lake Lacar. Spend the next two days exploring this lake district and its many outdoor attractions. Hike, mountain bike, raft and take excursions in 4x4 vehicles are only a few of the options to view the area over the next few days.

Located on the shores of Lanin National Park, San Martin de los Andes is one of the most northern parts of the southern Argentinean/southern Chilean region known as Patagonia. The most impressive sight in the region has to be the Lanin volcano located within the national park. At 3,768 meters above sea level it isn’t among the largest peaks in South America, but it is one of the youngest of the Andes and considered one of the most beautiful mountains in the world. Start your journey south, taking the Seven Lakes Route (optional). Situated on the beautiful shore of Lake Nahuel Huapi, Bariloche is a year-round playground for skiers, hikers and outdoors enthusiasts of all types. Enjoy optional day hikes, hire a mountain bike, or simply relax in a café and enjoy samples of the local product -- fine chocolate!

The urban centre of the Argentine Lake District, San Carlos de Bariloche in many ways resembles alpine resorts of Europe. During winter ski season the town fills to capacity with jovial Argentine and Brazilian vacationers whose favourite pastime seems to be eating and drinking. Their gusto is understandable; Bariloche has some of the best food in the country. Sample a beefy parillada, a variety of fresh salmon or lake trout, before working it off during a day hike around Cerro Catedral or by practicing your salsa at one of the town's salsotecas. Begin with an early morning bus from Bariloche across the Patagonia Andes mountain range to the Chilean city of Puerto Varas, the gateway to the southern end of the Lake District and to the Chilean Patagonia..

Encompassing a narrow strip of land between the Pacific Ocean and the high peaks of the Andes-approximately 180 km (112 miles) wide, but with a coastline stretching over 4300 km (14104 ft), Chile's 'geografia loca' (as termed by Benjamin Subercasseaux) includes the driest desert, the Atacama in the north, the agriculturally rich Central Valley, snow-covered volcanoes, forests and tranquil lakes of the near south and the wild and windswept glaciers and fjords of the far south.

It is within this last region that you'll discover magnificent trekking country, where guanacos, ñandues (rheas), condors, pink flamingos and magellanic (jack-ass) penguins abound. The region also boasts some of the world's finest salmon and trout fishing, and the cuisine at times rivals the natural setting. The weather can be cold, wet and extremely windy...so gear up. A gold mine of undiscovered destinations and surprises, this country and its friendly and hospitable people will no doubt make a mark on your memories and leave you with a smile.

There are few areas in the world that can match the Chilean Lake District for scenic grandeur. South of the Rio Toltén and sprawled across the provinces of Valdivia, Osorno and Llanquihué, you'll find everything from snow-capped mountains to deep blue and emerald lakes, smoking volcanoes, forests and glaciers. This is a favourite vacation ground for national tourists, visitors from across the Andes, and around the globe.

The region’s architecture is unique in that older structures are wooden and resemble central European homes and churches of the 19th Century. This is due to the significant number of immigrants, largely Germany, Switzerland, Austria and some Italian, who settled here over the last half of that century. The regional cuisine also reflects this, with many restaurants specializing in kuchen and other baked delicacies. Seafood dishes abound in this region. Of particular interest to visitors is the curanto Chilote, a hearty seafood stew that’ll leave you ready for a siesta.

An optional excursion can be arranged to the nearby island of Chiloe, South America’s largest island. The isolation of Chiloe for most of its history has influenced the culture of its inhabitants greatly. The first Spanish settlement was founded in 1567 by Martin Ruiz de Gamboa, but due to the Mapuche native uprising in 1598, which drove the Spanish living on the southern mainland away, the islanders had no contact with the rest of the Spanish colonists. This helped preserve the culture and architecture we see today. The capital Castro, like most of Chiloe’s communities, lies on the east side of the island away from the rains and fierce winds of the Pacific side. Spend three days and nights cruising through Chile’s fjords and channels, from Puerto Montt to Puerto Natales. Snow peaked mountains, waterways dotted with icebergs and islands and unique marine wildlife make this a voyage you won't soon forget.

Embark upon an adventure through fjords, coves and bays between Puerto Montt and Puerto Natales on our expedition ship. Depart from the Angelmo's Ferry Harbour in Puerto Montt, and watch as the spectacular sight of the Osorno and Calbuco Volcanoes changes into an even more impressive landscape as the ferry sails between the Chiloé archipelago and the mainland. Prepare to enter the rough waters of the Golfo de Penas (Gulf of Sorrows), which tests your sailing tolerance. Experience the relief of calmer waters as you enter the Messier Channel and the Angostura Inglesa, a passage so narrow that you’ll think the ship will never fit through.

Continue travelling north through narrow fjords and past rainforest islands, barely touched by modern man. Waterfalls cascade from the mountaintops but in the narrow fjords nothing disturbs the enveloping silence. At the end of the journey disembark at the gate of entry to Southern Patagonia: Puerto Natales. Puerto Natales is the entranceway to Torres del Paine National Park. Hike in the area and explore this small fishing town before heading out to the park. Store any extra gear not needed for the Paine hike, and enjoy the local scenery and seafood.

A town of brightly coloured corrugated tin houses, Puerto Natales lies on the Seno de Ultima Esperanza (Last Hope Sound, so named by a group of desperate early explorers) and is home to the once large and important Bories meat processing plant. These days most of its residents rely on tourism as a source of income. The surrounding countryside of foothills and mountains beckons the explorer and it is the logical jumping-off point for an excursion into Paine National Park. Words cannot describe the majesty and beauty of this National Park in Chilean Patagonia. Few people have the opportunity to see this area and those who do find it difficult to forget its vivid colours and tranquility. One of the many thriving legends concerns the origin of the park's name. Locals insist that ìpaineî is derived from the Tehuelche Indian word for the colour blue, while others say it is the name of an original Welsh settler to the area. Spend five days hiking in this spectacular park, with breathtaking views of the Horns of Paine, the Towers, French Valley. Visit the Serrano and Last Hope Sound for a different perspective of the area.

The granite Towers of Paine make a sudden and dramatic appearance on the horizon in the midst of a flat, dry, wind-swept plain; they are so extravagantly beautiful that superlatives fail. Despite the almost constant summer winds, this is some of the finest trekking country in Chile. Endowed with severe mountains, sparkling lakes, waterfalls and glaciers, as well as herds of guanacos, majestic condors, flocks of pink flamingos, and large Patagonian hares, the park's international attraction is immediately evident.

Once a large sheep estancia, the park was established in 1959 as the Parque Nacional Lago Grey. Prior to this, baqueanos (cowboys) grazed their flocks here and fires occasionally burnt out of control. The devastation wrought near Lago Grey with large areas of burnt forest and charred logs remain visible to this day. More land was added to the park in 1962 and the name was changed to its present one. Torre (Tower) Sur rises 2900m (9512 ft) above sea level, Torre Central is 2850m (9348 ft) high and Torre Norte measures 2600m (8528 ft). The Cuernos (Horns) del Paine, massive blocks of various rock layers visible from great distances, are as spectacular as the towers themselves. Spend the next few days hiking and camping in this spectacular park, visiting the Towers, Grey Glacier and French Valley, before making your way back to Puerto Natales. Camping equipment (except as noted previously) is provided, as are all meals (and cook), during the Paine National Park trek. Hikes are moderate to difficult along clearly marked trails, for about 5-8 hours per day. After exiting the park, night 17 is spent in Puerto Natales. Leave Chile and return to Argentina, travelling across the dusty, windy altiplano. A long road takes us through the arid southern pampas and across the border to the turquoise waters of Lake Argentina and the town of Calafate. Continue the drive west towards the blue/grey mountains and the beautiful views of the dynamic Moreno glacier. Keep an eye out for condors, rheas, eagles or flamingos en route, but the real star of the day is stunning Moreno Glacier, at the southern terminus of Glacier National Park. Sliding down from atop the southern continental ice field, Moreno's 60-m (197 ft) wall of ice sporadically chokes off the narrow Canal de los Tempanos (Channel of Ice Bergs) creating a natural ice dam, which eventually explodes in a dynamic display of force.

The southern continental ice field, the second largest on the planet (after Greenland's), is the source of all the area's glaciers, including Moreno, Onelli, Viedma and Upsala. Moreno Glacier moves down from this massive river of frozen water, huge chunks of ice constantly crashing into the lake waters below. Very dynamic, Moreno is one of the very few advancing glaciers left in the world. It is simply enormous: 1 km (half a mile) wide and 60m (196 ft) high. Take the return flight to Buenos Aires and enjoy one final night out on the town. Please note that due to a schedule change for the ferry through the Chilean Fjords this departure will run in reverse, travelling from Buenos Aires to El Calafate and working north. 4369 4179 2659 2189 5739 3899 2999 4399 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 500 USD 4369 4179 2659 2189 5739 3899 2999 4399 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 500 USD 4369 4179 2659 2189 5739 3899 2999 4399 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 500 USD 4369 4179 2659 2189 5739 3899 2999 4399 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 500 USD 4369 4179 2659 2189 5739 3899 2999 4399 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 500 USD 4369 4179 2659 2189 5739 3899 2999 4399 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 500 USD 4369 4179 2659 2189 5739 3899 2999 4399 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 500 USD 4369 4179 2659 2189 5739 3899 2999 4399 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 500 USD 4369 4179 2659 2189 5739 3899 2999 4399 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 500 USD Accommodation Simple hotels (13 nts), Multi-share cabins aboard ferry (3 nts), Camping (4 nts). Departure Departs twice per month (Nov-Apr) DepEnd Sun-Sat Group Leader Tour leader throughout, local guides. Group Size Max 12, Avg 10 Highlights Buenos Aires, San Martin de los Andes, Bariloche, Puerto Varas, Chilean Fjord Cruise, Puerto Natales, Torres del Paine National Park, El Calafate, Moreno Glacier. Max Pax 12 Meal Budget Allow USD350 for meals not included. For additional expenses, see trip details. Meals Included All meals while aboard ferry and while camping. Min Pax 6 Recommendation You're already this far south … Why not hit Antarctica? - see code XVCASX. StartFinish ex Buenos Aires Testimonial "Wild Patagonia was a great trip! It had great scenery, and fantastic places to visit along the way. The highlight was the five days in Paine National Park." - Max Warlond travelled on Wild Patagonia Transport Public bus, Internal flights, Ferry, Hiking and Boat. What's Included 3-day Chilean Fjord ferry cruise, 4-night camping/hiking excursion through Torres del Paine National Park along the famous "W" route, Visit to Moreno Glacier. A Couple of Rules Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for G.A.P Adventures Adventure travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter, and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of prostitutes is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our group leader has the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or they use prostitutes.
Arrival Complications We don't expect any problems, and nor should you, but if for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, as soon as possible please contact your starting point hotel, requesting that you speak to or leave a message for your trip leader (if you are not on a group tour please refer to the emergency contact details provided in this dossier). If you are unable to get in touch with your leader, please refer to our emergency contact details. If you have pre-booked an airport transfer and have not made contact with our representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs and immigration, we recommend that you make your own way to the Starting Point hotel, following the Joining Instructions. Please apply to your travel agent on your return for a refund of the transfer cost if this occurs.
Associated Planeterra Project Brochure Intro A 3 week exploration of Patagonia and the Lake District filled with pristine wilderness and awe-inspiring scenery. Checklist - Passport (with photocopies)
- Travel insurance (with photocopies)
- Airline tickets (with photocopies)
- USD cash and travellers cheques
- Credit or debit cards (see personal spending money)
- G.A.P Adventures vouchers and dossier
- Any entry visas or vaccination certificates required
- Camera and film
- Reading/writing material
- Binoculars
- Cover for backpacks
- Fleece top
- Windproof/waterproof jacket and pants
- Small towel and swim wear
- 4 shirts/t-shirts
- Sun hat
- 1 pair of shorts
- 2 pairs of long trousers
- 1 pair hiking pants/track pants
- Hiking boots/ sturdy walking shoes
- Sports sandals
- Sunblock
- Sunglasses
- Toiletries (bio-degradable)
- Watch or alarm clock
- Water bottle
- Purification tablets or filter
- Pocket knife
- First-aid kit(should contain lip salve, Aspirin, Band Aids, anti-histamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, re-hydration powder, extra prescription drugs you may be taking).

FOR THE TORRES DEL PAINE NATIONAL PARK TREK:
- Inner sheet (for sleeping bag)
- Fair sized daypack (30 litre is good)
- Wool hat, mitts or gloves (preferably waterproof)
- Strong plastic bags to help keep gear dry
- Sleeping bag (this can also be hired locally for approximately $5
USD/day
- Anti-inflammatory tablets (e.g. Ibuprofen)
- Thermal underwear

All other camping equipment for the Paine trek is provided and included in the cost of your trip. You may leave the bulk of your gear stored in Puerto Natales. Hikes are loops out of a base camp and you will only need to carry your daypack with supplies for the duration of each hike. Also note that quality hiking gear is difficult to get anywhere along the way. Buy what you need at home.
Departure Tax U$D18 Detailed Trip Notes Dossier Disclaimer The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and G.A.P Adventures. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary.

VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.
Dossier Intro A 3-week exploration of Patagonia and the Lake District filled with pristine wilderness and awe-inspiring mountain scenery. Emergency Contact Should you need to contact G.A.P Adventures during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call our local contact in Buenos Aires. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information, so we may return your call and assist you as soon as possible.

G.A.P Adventures Buenos Aires, Argentina
Tel: Int. Dialing Code + 54 9 11 6 1477 660
From within Argentina
11 15 6 1477 660

If you are unable for any reason to contact our local contact in Buenos Aires, we have a toll-free line for North America, which will connect you directly with our Toronto office. In the event that you cannot get through, you can reach a member of our Operations department at the mobile number below:

Toll-free, North America only: 1 800 465 5600.
Calls from the UK: 0870 999 0144.
Outside North America and the UK: +1 416 260 0999.
Mobile: + 1 416 305 6139.
Emergency Fund Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (eg. a natural disaster) necessitate a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!
Feedback After your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback information is so important to us that you'll receive a special discount code for free online prints and we'll give you 5% off the price of your next G.A.P Adventures trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 30 days of finishing your trip. Please visit http://www.gapadventures.com/evaluations
Finishing Point Hotel Free Online Trip Journals An online Trip Journal is a great way to record stories and photos as you travel, not to mention sharing your experiences with friends. Encourage your family and friends to follow in your footsteps as you explore the world! With templates for over 300 G.A.P Adventures trips already online all you have to do to get started is log in, choose your trip and your departure date, it's quick and easy! Head to http://www.gapadventures.com/trip_journal. Group Leader Description All G.A.P Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our group leaders, a G.A.P Adventures representative, or an expedition team. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting- we think it's the best of both worlds. Health You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. We recommend that you carry a First Aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements. Please be aware that quite often we are in remote areas and away from medical facilities, and for legal reasons our leaders are prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache tablets, antibiotics, etc. When selecting your trip please carefully read the brochure and itinerary and assess your ability to cope with our style of travel. Please refer to the Physical and Culture Shock ratings for trip specific information. For travellers over 70 years a completed Medical Form is required. G.A.P Adventures reserves the right to exclude any traveller from all or part of a trip without refund if in the reasonable opinion of our group leader they are unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group. Itinerary Disclaimer While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit travel with G.A.P Adventures can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission.

Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances. Joining Hotel Hotel Splendid
Rivadavia 950
Buenos Aires
Argentina
T/ +54 11 4345-2800 Joining Instructions Officially the airport is called Ministro Pistarini International Airport, but it is commonly referred to as Ezeiza. It is situated 35 km (22 miles) from the city, about 40 minutes in a taxi. A taxi to the centre cost approximately $20 USD and can be arranged from the official counter inside the Arrivals area.

If you are arriving from abroad and have paid in advance for an arrival transfer, a G.A.P Adventures representative will meet you at the airport. If no one is there, take a public taxi to the hotel and we will reimburse you. If you have not paid for an arrival transfer, the best way to get into town is by public taxi or by buses (info below). If your taxi driver does not speak English and you do not speak Spanish, simply show driver the hotel address to simplify communications.

There are a few bus companies that can take you to the hotel of your choice in the centre of Buenos Aires. Manuel Tienda Leon is the most well known, and the most expensive at about $7 USD. Their counter is at the customs exit. Ecuador buses are after this, and charge about $6 USD. San Martin is after the exit to the hall right as you leave, and charges about $12. Students get a discount.

There are exchange facilities in the Banco de la Nacion with 1.5% commission, however the Peso Argentino has recently devalued and there are money changers lining the pedestrian mall Florida, the rate is around 3 pesos to the dollar. ATM Visa and Mastercard facilities available.

Please note that Day 1 is an arrival day and no activities have been planned, so you may arrive at any time. Similarly the last day is a departure day during which no activities are planned. Your Tour Leader will contact you at the hotel on Day 1 and make sure you are settled comfortably. If you arrive late, s/he will leave you a message detailing what time and where you should meet the next morning. Your Tour Leader will organize a short meeting soon after arrival, during which you will meet other tour participants and receive information about general and specific aspects of the trip. Keeping in Touch If you need to be contacted while travelling we recommend that you set up an email address that can be accessed on the road, rather than relying on postal mail. Email cafes are becoming increasingly commonplace and cheap throughout the regions we visit, and have quickly become the preferred way for our leaders and travellers to stay in touch. If someone wishes to contact you in an emergency while you are on one of our trips we recommend that they contact your local booking agent, or refer to our Emergency Contact. We recommend that family and friends don't try to contact you through phoning hotels en route, as our hotels are subject to change, and our hotel receptions often don't have English speaking staff.
Laundry Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap. Local Flights All local flights are included in the cost of your tour unless otherwise noted. It is important that we have your passport information at the time of booking in order to process these tickets. Internal flight tickets are issued locally and will be given to you prior to the flight departure. Local payment description Most of our adventure tours involve a local payment. This is the final payment of your tour price, paid locally. Paying locally facilitates the flow of funds into countries that we travel through and also helps to reduce the overall price of the tour. This helps G.A.P Adventures keep our prices competitive and in-turn, pass our cost savings onto you. Payment is to be made to your leader or G.A.P Adventures representative upon arrival in cash in the requested currency. Please see our website, brochure or your trip documents and invoice for Local Payment.
Meals Eating is a big part of traveling. Travelling with G.A.P Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your group leader will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. On truck trips in Africa, aboard the expedition ship Explorer or our Galapagos yachts, while trekking in remote regions etc. food is included, plentiful and made of fresh local ingredients. The above information applies to G.A.P Adventures group trips. For Independent trips please check the itinerary for details of meals included. For all trips please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets.
Medical Form Our small group adventures bring together people of all ages. It is very important you are aware that, as a minimum, an average level of fitness and mobility' is required to undertake our easiest programs. Travellers must be able to walk without the aid of another person, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry their own luggage at a minimum. Travellers with a pre-existing medical condition are required to complete a short medical questionnaire, which must be signed by their physician. This is to ensure that travellers have the necessary fitness and mobility to comfortably complete their chosen trip. While our leaders work hard to ensure that all our travellers are catered for equally, it is not their responsibility to help individuals who cannot complete the day's activities unaided. Please refer to the physical ratings in this Trip Details document for more information.
Please note that all passengers traveling to Antarctica are required to fill out this questionnaire.

The medical questionnaire can be found online at:

www.gapadventures.com/online_medical_form.
Money Exchange Credit cards and debit cards are very useful for cash advances. Visa cards are the most widely accepted cards. While ATMs are widely available, there are no guarantees that your credit or debit cards will actually work in Latin America. Check with your bank. You should be aware that to purchase products or services on a credit card a fee of 5%-10% usually applies. Do not rely on credit or debit cards as your only source of money, a combination of US dollar cash and cards is best. Please bear in mind that cost of living in the southern cone countries (Argentina, Brazil, Chile) is much higher than the rest of South America, and in the case of Argentina, more comparable with Europe. Always take more rather than less, as you don't want to spoil the trip by constantly feeling short of funds.

CURRENCY EXCHANGE TIP: Please be advised that slightly torn notes, notes that have been heavily marked or are faded may be difficult to exchange. It is best to bring notes in fairly good condition, in denominations lower than 100USD (or equivalent).

As currency exchange rates can fluctuate often we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com
Newsletter Our adventure travel e-newsletter is full of travel news, trip information, interesting stories and contests. To avoid missing out on special offers and updates from G.A.P Adventures, subscribe at www.gapadventures.com/newsletter_signup
Optional Activities All prices are per person in US dollar amounts.

Buenos Aires:
City tour $10 - $30
Tango show BA $35 - $60
Day tour to Tigre & Delta $25 - $40
Day tour to Colonia (Uruguay) $70
Day tour to EstancÌa $60

Bariloche:
Journey via Seven Lakes Route - $20
Mountain bike rental $5/hour
Day tour (circuito Chico) $15
Horseback riding $25-$45
Lakes crossing $160
Rafting $40

Puerto Varas/Puerto Montt:
Mountain bike rental $15/day
Boat trip Tenglo Island $2
Kayak rental $10 - $25
Rafting (Petrohue River) $35 - $65

Punta Arenas:
Tour Fuerte Bulnes $6
Museum entrance $2

Puerto Natales:
Entrance Cerro Dorotea $5
Horseback riding $15 - $25

El Calafate:
Mountain bike rental $4/hour
Horseback riding $15 - $25
Cruise Upsala Glacier $45 (10 Hrs)
Cruise Moreno Glacier $ 10 (45 mins
Our Commitment to Responsible Travel in Antarctica Planeterra-The G.A.P Adventures Foundation Through G.A.P Adventures’ commitment to responsible tourism we have developed Planeterra – the G.A.P Adventures Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of people and communities around the world through support of international charities, local organizations and community projects in the places that we visit on our tours. G.A.P Adventures matches all individual donations and pays all administration fees, which means that 100% of each donation is doubled and goes directly to support our projects. For more information about Planeterra and the projects we support, or to make a donation, please visit www.planeterra.org

Planeterra Dollar-A-Day Program
Our Dollar-A-Day Program provides travellers with the opportunity to help us give back to the people and places visited on our tours by donating one dollar per day for the duration of their tour. 100% of these proceeds will go directly to support our Planeterra projects.

To participate in this program please indicate at the time of booking that you would like to participate in G.A.P Adventures’ Dollar-A-Day program, either by clicking the check box online, or by advising your GA.P Adventures specialist or travel agent. (Note: Donation will be charged in the currency of your booking) Responsible Travel Being a responsible tour operator is at the heart of what G.A.P Adventures is all about. From the start, G.A.P Adventures has been committed to offering low-impact tours that benefit traveller and host alike. While our sustainable tourism policies are constantly evolving, our commitment to socially conscious, grassroots style travel has never changed. We work with local communities, businesses and individuals to develop sustainable tourism opportunities that help local economies while minimizing negative environmental and cultural impacts.

For more information about our commitment to responsible travel, please visit the Sustainable Tourism section of the G.A.P Adventures website: www.gapadventures.com
Safety and Security Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure. We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travellers' cheques, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewellery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. When travelling on a group trip, please note that your group leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to safety concerns. Your leader will accompany you on all included activities. During your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy or explore at your leisure. While your group leader will assist you with options available in a given location please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your itinerary, and we offer no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgement when selecting an activity in your free time. Although the cities visited on tour are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering throughout any major city at night. It is our recommendation to stay in small groups and to take taxis to and from restaurants, or during night time excursions.

Single Travellers We believe single travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and single travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.
Spending Money Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.
Tipping It is customary in Latin America to tip service providers such as waiters, at approximately 10%, depending on the service. Tipping is an expected - though not compulsory - component of your tour program and an expression of satisfaction with the persons who have assisted you on your tour. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. There are several times during the trip where there is opportunity to tip the local guides or drivers we use. Recommendations for tipping drivers and local guides would range from $5-10 USD per day depending on the quality and length of the service; ask your tour leader for specific recommendations based on the circumstances and culture.

Also at the end of each trip if you felt your G.A.P Adventures Tour Leader did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline $20-25 USD per person, per week can be used. Travel Forum - The Watering Hole Be sure to stop by The Watering Hole, our adventure travel forum. If you're interested in meeting others booked on your upcoming trip, check out the Departure Lounge section of our forum and introduce yourself. Otherwise, just drop in at anytime to share some travel tips, ask questions, meet other travellers and quench your thirst for travel. Our forum is located at wateringhole.gapadventures.com. Travel Insurance Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy we require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
Trip Specific Responsible Travel Trip Specific Safety Please note: You should be especially careful when wandering about the capital city on your own, particularly at night. Tourists are easy prey for individual pickpockets or groups of two or more people working as a team on the streets. Pay particular attention to anyone who 'accidentally' spills anything on your clothes or belongings (mustard, etc.) and then apologizes and offers to help clean up. They will clean you out instead! Be safe and leave your passport, credit cards, travellers cheques and cash funds you won't be using immediately in the hotel's safety deposit box. Most Porteños are honest and genuinely helpful and friendly, but be safe and enjoy the city!
Validity Valid for all trips departing January 1, 2009 - December 31st 2009. Visas All countries require a valid passport (with a minimum 6 months validity). Contact your local embassy, or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements, or see your travel agent. IT'S YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO HAVE THE CORRECT TRAVEL DOCUMENTATION.
We Want Your Photos If you've got some great photos form your G.A.P Adventures travels, then post them online in our community! You can share photos - and videos - with our travellers from around the world. Simply go online to www.gapadventures.com/community to check out what other people have shared! We often have photo and video contests running too, so be sure to check our website often!
What to Take Most people automatically assume that the weather is hot in South America, but because of the higher altitude in the Andes and the extreme southern nature of this trip, the temperature can feel quite cold, especially at night. We recommend the use of a duffel bag or backpack, whichever you find easiest to carry. A good size daypack is also essential. A 30 litre bag is recommended for the day hikes that we will be doing.
Your Fellow Travellers As you travel on a group trip you will be exposed to all the pleasures and maybe some of the frustrations of travelling in a group. Your fellow travellers will probably come from all corners of the world and are likely to be of a variety of ages too. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group - patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone's travel experience. Remember too that you have responsibilities to the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time, ensure that you don't keep the rest of the group waiting. We have found time and time again that the very best trips we operate are those where the dynamics within the group work well - this takes just a little effort on your part.