23 days to discover the unbelievable scenic beauty of rugged Patagonia, much of which still remains untouched. Patagonia straddles modern day Chile and Argentina, countries with culture and history as rich as the Patagonian highlands are wild. Patagonia Dreaming Classic 2009 GAP 6 12 Max 12, Avg 10 South America Chile, Argentina, Patagonia Buenos Aires Buenos Aires Argentina Argentina Trekking/Hiking, Wildlife/Nature 23 4 Standard http://www.gapadventures.com/images/banners/argentina/argentina_santacruz.jpg Arrive in Buenos Aires at any time. Fly to San Carlos de Bariloche, the entrance to northern Patagonia and the Argentine Lake District. Enjoy optional day hikes, rent a mountain bike, or simply relax in a café. A scenic journey takes us across the Andes and into the neighbouring Chilean Lake Region. Spend two nights on the shore of Lake Llanquihue and watch the moon hang over perfect views of Osorno Volcano. Fly to the Magallanes region, located just west of the Strait of Magellan. The coastal town of Punta Arenas is your gateway into southern Patagonia. There is plenty of history to explore in town and the playful creatures at the Otway penguin colony are sure to provide many photo opportunities. Puerto Natales is the entrance to Torres Del Paine National Park. Hike the area and explore this small fishing town before heading into the park. Words cannot describe the majesty and beauty of this national park in Chilean Patagonia. Few people have the chance to see this area, but those who do will never forget its vivid colours and tranquility. Spend five days hiking in this spectacular park, with views of the 'Horns of Paine', the Towers, French Valley, and optional ice climbing on Grey Glacier. Also visit the Serrano River and Last Hope Sound for a completely different perspective of the area. Travel through the arid southern pampas and across the border to Lake Argentina and the town of El Calafate. After a scenic drive west towards the mountains, we reach the stunning Moreno Glacier, while spotting condors, eagles, flamingos, or rheas en route. Spend two days of hiking within Glacier National Park, with its granite pinnacles spiralling skyward from the third-largest ice field on earth. Explore the surrounding forests and lakes, hike to Laguna de Los Tres to check out Fitzroy / Chaltén (3441m /11289 ft) and Laguna Torre and enjoy fantastic views of these magical peaks and glaciers. Return to El Calafate by bus on Day 18. A short flight takes you to Ushuaia. Situated on the island of Tierra del Fuego, it is the southernmost town on the planet. An intimate cruise around the Beagle Channel provides the opportunity for hiking and bird watching. Fly to Buenos Aires for a final night and celebration out on the town. Arrive in Buenos Aires at any time. Check into the hotel and enjoy the city as there are no planned activities.

Argentina is the second giant of South America with a landscape nearly as varied as its people. Modern and sophisticated, Argentina has much more in common with Europe than with the rest of its neighbours. The capital city of Argentina, Buenos Aires, is the ultimate cosmopolitan city. Nearly 40 percent 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 artist's displays. La Boca was originally settled by the successive waves of immigrants, all of whom 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 MartÌn, the father of Argentine independence, is buried.

When you are done exploring, settle your weary feet and enjoy a drink in one of the many sidewalk cafes and restaurants and you will 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 Carlos de Bariloche, the entrance to northern Patagonia. 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 cafe.

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 as Bariloche has some of the best food in the country. Sample a beefy parillada, a variety of fresh salmon or lake trout, then work it off during a day hike around Cerro Catedral or by living vicariously through the Tango dancers at their live shows. Journey aboard a comfortable bus across the Andes and through the marvellous mountain scenery of the Lake District. Spend 2 nights on the shores of Lake Llanquihuewith, enjoying the perfect views of Osorno Volcano. Take an optional day hike to the shelter on Osorno volcano, where there is an undisturbed panoramic view of the lake and surrounding mountains and forests, and if fortunate, a clear view of Osorno's near perfect cone. This is a beautiful region with bright flowers and wooded mountain slopes. Take an exhilirating hike up to the ice-clad volcano, providing stunning panoramic views of the Petrohue River valley below and the surrounding peaks.

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.

There are few areas in the world that can match the Chilean Lake District for scenic grandeur. South of the Rio Tolten and sprawled across the provinces of Valdivia, Osorno and Llanquihue, you'll find everything from snow-capped mountains to deep-blue and emerald lakes, smoking volcanoes, forests and glaciers. Outside noisy cities, such as Puerto Montt, the loudest sound you're likely to hear is the roar of waterfalls streaming down cliff faces into crystal clear pools. 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 European homes and churches of the 19th Century. This is due to the significant number of immigrants from central Europe (largely Germany, Switzerland, Austria and Italy) 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.

Camping equipment (except as noted previously) is provided, as are all meals (and cook), during the Paine Trek. Hikes are moderate to difficult, along clearly marked trails. Participants should be prepared for hikes ranging in duration from 5-8 hours per day. The weather can provide cold, wet and extremely windy conditions. 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. At the very end of the Chilean mainland, looking across the Straits of Magellan to Porvenir and Tierra del Fuego, Punta Arenas is a city of about 100 000 people. It is the capital of the 12th region (Magallanes) and the discovery of offshore oil and gas as well as a burgeoning adventure tourism industry have fueled much of its recent development, although the traditional sheep estancÌas remain a significant part of the economy and culture. Punta Arenas is a surprisingly large and well developed city and an important Chilean naval base. Monuments to the early Yugoslav settlers and to the hardy ranchers and explorers who pioneered the area are scattered throughout the city, and the enormous cemetery contains the crypts of many of the city's historically leading citizens.

A short drive away from Punta Arenas, the Otway Sound penguin colony is the result of a successful protection program that has brought back to healthy numbers the once endangered population. These charming birds are here from October to April, with chicks hatching in early December. En route there and back to town look out for rheas, flamingos, and a variety of other birds. Foxes and skunks occasionally make an appearance as well. Puerto Natales is the entrance way to Torres del Paine National Park. We have time to hike in the area and enjoy the local scenery and seafood in this small fishing town before we head out for the park. We store any extra gear not needed for the Paine hike.

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, and optional ice climbing on Grey Glacier. 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. Leave Chile and return to Argentina, travelling across the dusty, windy altiplano. The 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. A spectacular drive west towards the mountains leads us to dynamic Moreno glacier. We may spot 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.

The southern continental ice field, the third largest on the planet (after Greenland and Antarctica) 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, it occasionally chokes off the narrow Canal de los Tempanos (Channel of Ice Bergs) creating a dam of ice through which the lake water eventually bursts in a spectacular display of force.

If Buenos Aires is the heart of the country, Patagonia and the southern Pampas of Santa Cruz province are its soul. This is the very region we explore, trekking within Glacier National Park for the grand rewards of the trail. Hikes are moderate, with clearly marked & well-maintained trails, though there are some more challenging sections, and Parque Nacional Los Glaciares has some of the most spectacular natural sights you will see in your lifetime. The town of El Chalten is located in the north end of the park. Hikers and climbers from around the globe congregate here, waiting for good weather to undertake the challenges presented by nature. The atmosphere is laid back and the mountains and Beech forests here are very similar to Paine. The hikes to Laguna de Los Tres and Laguna Torre traverse spectacular glacial valleys to obtain awe-inspiring views of these peaks of ice and granite.

From our base in the town we complete a full-day hike within Glacier National Park’s northern end, where granite pinnacles spiral upward into the sky from the third largest ice field on earth. Hike to Laguna de Los Tres to fully appreciate majestic Cerro Fitzroy/Chaltén (3441 m/11286 ft), and enjoy one free day for optional activities including a hike to Laguna Torre for inspiring views of these magical peaks and glaciers.


A short flight takes us to the southern-most city in the world: Ushuaia, situated on the island of Tierra del Fuego. “Ushuaia” actually means 'the bay facing westward' in the language of the original Yamana inhabitants. The town of 40 000 is also a major ski resort area for both alpine and cross-country skiers and offers magnificent hiking in Parque Nacional Tierra del Fuego, the only coastal national park in Argentina. We include an intimate cruise along the Beagle Channel (named after Darwin's expedition vessel) providing you with panoramic views of the scenery and the chance to spot marine animals and a variety of marine birds. Back on land there are various options, including bird watching, day hikes in Tierra del Fuego National Park, horseback riding and a visit to the ex-penal colony, disbanded in the 1940s. Enjoy a free morning in Ushuaia before the return flight to Buenos Aires and a final night out on the town. 4709 4499 2859 2359 6179 4199 3199 4699 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 500 USD 4709 4499 2859 2359 6179 4199 3199 4699 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 500 USD 4709 4499 2859 2359 6179 4199 3199 4699 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 500 USD 4709 4499 2859 2359 6179 4199 3199 4699 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 500 USD 4709 4499 2859 2359 6179 4199 3199 4699 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 500 USD 4709 4499 2859 2359 6179 4199 3199 4699 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 500 USD 4709 4499 2859 2359 6179 4199 3199 4699 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 500 USD 4709 4499 2859 2359 6179 4199 3199 4699 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 500 USD 4709 4499 2859 2359 6179 4199 3199 4699 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 500 USD 4709 4499 2859 2359 6179 4199 3199 4699 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 500 USD Accommodation Hotels (may be multi-share) (18 nts), Camping (4 nts). Departure Departs twice per month (Nov-Mar) DepEnd Sun-Mon, Sat-Sun Group Leader Tour leader throughout, local guides. Group Size Max 12, Avg 10 Highlights Buenos Aires, Bariloche, Puerto Varas, Punta Arenas, Puerto Natales, Torres del Paine National Park, Moreno Glacier, El Calafate, El Chalten, Glacier National Park, Ushuaia. Max Pax 12 Meal Budget Allow USD475 for meals not included. For additional expenses, see trip details. Meals Included All meals while camping. Min Pax 6 Recommendation You're already this far south … Why not hit Antarctica? - see code XVCASX. StartFinish ex Buenos Aires Testimonial "I just got back from a tour called Patagonia Dreaming. It was certainly a dream come true! My tour group was incredible, and the guide was outstanding. We went hiking to one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen!" - Liliana Hecker travelled on Patagonia Dreaming Transport Public bus, Boat, Local flights. What's Included 4-night camping/hiking excursion through Torres del Paine National Park along the famous "W" route, Tour to Otway Penguin Colony, Visit to Moreno Glacier, Full day hike in Glacier National Park. 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 Spend 23 days discovering the unbelievable scenic beauty of rugged Patagonia, much of which still remains untouched. Patagonia straddles modern day Chile and Argentina, countries with culture and history as rich as the Patagonian highlands are wild. 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- 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 (Can be purchased locally)
- Sleeping bag (this can also be hired locally for approximately $5 USD/day
- Anti-inflammatory tablets (e.g. Ibuprofen)
- Thermal underwear
- 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
- Flashlight/torch
- 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).

**Please note that 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 USD18 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 23 days to discover the unbelievable scenic beauty of rugged Patagonia, much of which still remains untouched. Patagonia straddles modern-day Chile and Argentina, countries with culture and history as rich as the Patagonian highlands are wild. 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 dollars in cash and cards is best. Please bear in mind that the cost of living in the southern cone countries (Argentina, Brazil, Chile) is much higher than the rest of South America. 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:
Mountain bike rental $9/day
Day tour (circuito Chico) $15
Horseback riding $30-$50
El Manso River Rafting $50-70


Puerto Varas/Puerto Montt:
Mountain bike rental $15/day
Boat trip Tenglo Island $4
Kayak rental $10 - $25
Rafting (Petrohue River) $35 - $65

Punta Arenas:
Tour Fuerte Bulnes $6
Museum entrance $2
Mountain bike rental $25/day

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

Torres Del Paine National Park:
Ice Hiking & Climbing $120

El Calafate:
Mountain bike rental $4/hour
Horseback riding $25 - $50
Cruise Upsala Glacier $45 (10 Hrs)
Cruise Moreno Glacier $10 (45 mins)
Laguna del Desierto $15

El Chaltén:
Horseback riding $17-$25 (half day)
Ice hike (Tower Glacier) $60

Ushuaia:
EstancÌa Harberton $50
Horseback riding $35-$65
Ski lift $5 (return)
Entrance museum $7
Bus to Park entrance $10 (return Tierra del Fuego Natíl Park)
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 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.), 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.