A challenging 15 day exploration of one of the world's most pristine wilderness settings: Patagonia! Mountain hiking, camping, and an unlimited supply of clean, fresh air are all yours on this adventure full of activity and scenery. End Of The Earth Classic 2009 GAP 6 12 Max 12, Avg 10 South America Chile, Argentina, Patagonia Buenos Aires Buenos Aires Argentina Argentina Trekking/Hiking, Wildlife/Nature 15 4 Standard http://www.gapadventures.com/images/banners/patagonia/patagonia_hiker_3.jpg Arrive in Buenos Aires at any time. Fly south to the town of El Calafate and continue on to El Chalten. From our base in El Chaltén we take a full-day hike within Glacier National Park's northern tip, home to the third largest ice field on earth. Hike to Laguna de Los Tres to fully appreciate majestic Cerro Fitzroy/Chaltén (3441m / 11286 ft) and to Laguna Torre for inspiring Patagonian views. Return to El Calafate. A spectacular drive through lofty mountain peaks takes us to the dynamic Moreno Glacier, within Glacier National Park. During the trip you may spot condors, eagles, flamingos, and rheas. Moreno is one of the few advancing glaciers on the planet, and you will long remember the sound of calving ice crashing into the lake waters below. Travel south again along unpaved roads to the border of Chile. Enjoy a relaxing evening in scenic Puerto Natales before camping for two days among the dramatic granite pillars that dominate the landscape in Paine National Park. Take day hikes from our camp to observe the striking scenery of this protected area, home to a variety of animal and plant life. Back in Puerto Natales in the afternoon of Day 9. Punta Arenas is Chile's southernmost city, facing the Straits of Magellan. You will have time to explore this lively city and visit a penguin colony at Otway Sound. The southernmost city in the world, Ushuaia is your base for a cruise of the islands and inlets of the Beagle Channel to observe its interesting marine wildlife. Fly to Buenos Aires for a final night in the city. Known as the ‘Paris of the Americas,’ Buenos Aires is a vibrant city full of life and an optional visit to a tango show at one of the many famous tanguerías is a great way to finish off your adventure. Arrive at any time. As there are no planned activities, check into the hotel and enjoy the city.

There is much to do in this vibrant metropolis, including visiting the many museums, theatres and historical areas. Known as the ‘Paris of the Americas,’ Buenos Aires is a vibrant city full of life. Be sure to visit the districts of La Boca, Recoleta, and San Telmo, or catch a tango show at one of the many famous tanguerías or tango houses. Wander the pedestrian walkways and see some dancing in the streets. Whatever you do, Buenos Aires is sure to leave lasting memories.

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 artists’ 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. Posh Recoleta, with its cafés, 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 cafés and restaurants and you can begin to understand the contemplative Argentine way of life. Try the succulent bifé and parrilladas, as it may be your last chance. Dig in and enjoy! Fly south to the Province of Santa Cruz and the town of El Calafate before transferring overland to El Chaltén. Enjoy 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), and to Laguna Torre for inspiring views of these magical peaks and glaciers. Return to to El Calafate by a late bus on Day 5.

Argentina is the second giant of South America, with a landscape nearly as varied as its people. Modern and sophisticated, cosmopolitan Argentina has much more in common with Europe than with the rest of its neighbours. But if Buenos Aires is the heart of the country, Patagonia and the southern Pampas in Santa Cruz Province are its soul. Luckily, 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 and well-maintained trails, though there are some more challenging sections. Parque Nacional Los Glaciares has some of the most spectacular natural sights you will see in your lifetime.

The town of El Chaltén 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.
Return to El Calafate, on the shores of Lago Argentino. Drive west towards the lofty peaks takes us to the dynamic Moreno Glacier, within Glacier National Park. We may spot condors, rheas, eagles or flamingos en route, but the real star of the day is the glacier tiself, located 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.
Continue the journey south along the unpaved road to the border of Chile. Spend a relaxing evening in scenic Puerto Natales before the trip to spectacular Paine National Park. Spend the next two nights camping among the dramatic granite pillars that dominate the landscape. From the campsite, take day hikes to observe some of the striking scenery of this protected area, home to a variety of animal and plant life. Return to Puerto Natales on the afternoon of day 9.

The granite Towers of Paine make a sudden and dramatic appearance on the horizon in the midst of a flat, dry, wind-swept plain. 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.

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 will 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. 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 remains visible to this day, with large areas of burnt forest and charred logs. More land was added to the park in 1962 and the name was changed to its present one. The Torre (Tower) Sur rises 2900m (9512 ft) above sea level, the Torre Central is 2850m (9348 ft) high and the Torre Norte measures 2600m (8528 ft). The Cuernos (Horns) del Paine, massive blocks of various rock layers and visible from great distances, are as spectacular as the towers themselves.

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.

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. Discover magnificent trekking country within this last region, where guanacos, ñandues (rheas), condors, pink flamingos and magellanic 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. 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 and unpredictable weather. 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. Chile’s southernmost city, it is the capital of the 12th region (Magallanes). Discoveries of offshore oil and gas, as well as a burgeoning adventure tourism industry have fuelled much of its recent development, although the traditional sheep estancías 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.

An hour’s drive 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 keep an eye out for rheas, flamingos, and a variety of other birds. Foxes and skunks occasionally make an appearance as well. Return to Punta Arenas for the night, with some time to explore this charming city. Returning to Argentina, head to the province of Tierra del Fuego and Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world, on the shores of the Beagle Channel. Ushuaia actually means “the bay facing westward” in the language of the original Yamaná inhabitants. Once a penal colony for political prisoners as well as hardened criminals (the presidio was disbanded in the 1940s), Ushuaia is now a major tourist attraction, particularly for people cruising to Antarctica. 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.

Ushuaia is our base for a cruise along the Beagle Channel (named after Darwin’s expedition vessel) to observe the marine wildlife amongst its small islands and inlets. Explore this ex-penal colony before returning to end the tour in cosmopolitan Buenos Aires.
Return flight to Buenos Aires for a final night on the town. 2469 2359 1499 1239 3239 2199 1709 2499 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 300 USD 2469 2359 1499 1239 3239 2199 1709 2499 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 300 USD 2469 2359 1499 1239 3239 2199 1709 2499 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 300 USD 2469 2359 1499 1239 3239 2199 1709 2499 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 300 USD 2469 2359 1499 1239 3239 2199 1709 2499 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 300 USD 2469 2359 1499 1239 3239 2199 1709 2499 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 300 USD 2469 2359 1499 1239 3239 2199 1709 2499 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 300 USD 2469 2359 1499 1239 3239 2199 1709 2499 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 300 USD 2469 2359 1499 1239 3239 2199 1709 2499 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 300 USD 2469 2359 1499 1239 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2469 2359 1499 1239 3239 2199 1709 2499 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 300 USD 2469 2359 1499 1239 3239 2199 1709 2499 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 300 USD 2469 2359 1499 1239 3239 2199 1709 2499 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 300 USD 2469 2359 1499 1239 3239 2199 1709 2499 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 300 USD 2469 2359 1499 1239 3239 2199 1709 2499 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 300 USD 2469 2359 1499 1239 3239 2199 1709 2499 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 300 USD 2469 2359 1499 1239 3239 2199 1709 2499 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 300 USD 2469 2359 1499 1239 3239 2199 1709 2499 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 300 USD 2469 2359 1499 1239 3239 2199 1709 2499 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 300 USD 2469 2359 1499 1239 3239 2199 1709 2499 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 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0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 300 USD 2469 2359 1499 1239 3239 2199 1709 2499 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 300 USD 2469 2359 1499 1239 3239 2199 1709 2499 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 300 USD 2469 2359 1499 1239 3239 2199 1709 2499 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 300 USD 2469 2359 1499 1239 3239 2199 1709 2499 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 300 USD 2469 2359 1499 1239 3239 2199 1709 2499 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 300 USD 2469 2359 1499 1239 3239 2199 1709 2499 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 300 USD 2469 2359 1499 1239 3239 2199 1709 2499 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 300 USD 2469 2359 1499 1239 3239 2199 1709 2499 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 300 USD 2469 2359 1499 1239 3239 2199 1709 2499 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 300 USD 2469 2359 1499 1239 3239 2199 1709 2499 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 300 USD 2469 2359 1499 1239 3239 2199 1709 2499 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 300 USD 2469 2359 1499 1239 3239 2199 1709 2499 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 300 USD Accommodation Hotels (may be multi-share) (12 nts), Camping (2 nts). Brief Highlights Buenos Aires, El Calafate, Moreno Glacier, El Chaltén, Glacier National Park, Puerto Natales, Torres del Paine National Park, Punta Arenas, Ushuaia, Beagle Channel, Patagonia. Departure Departs weekly (Nov-Apr) DepEnd Sun-Sun, Sat-Sat Group Leader Tour leader throughout, local guides. Group Size Max 12, Avg 10 Included Highlights Excursion to Moreno Glacier, Day hike in Glacier National Park, 2-night camping/hiking excursion to Torres del Paine National Park, Tour of Otway Penguin Colony (seasonal), Beagle Channel Cruise. Max Pax 12 Meal Budget Allow USD325 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 "My trip to 'del fin del mundo' (the end of the earth) was not only an adventure full of spectacular hiking, but I have not laughed so much for ages!" - Anita Mackay travelled on End of the Earth Transport Public bus, Van, Local flights, Boat. 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 challenging 15 day exploration of one of the world's most pristine wilderness settings: Patagonia! Mountain hiking, camping and an unlimited supply of clean, fresh air are all yours on this adventure full of activity and scenery. Checklist * Passport (with photocopies)
* Travel insurance (with photocopies)
* Airline tickets (with photocopies)
* USD cash and travellers cheque
* 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
* CD/MP3 player
* Reading/writing material
* Binoculars
* Cover for backpacks
* Inner sheet (for sleeping bag)
* Fair sized daypack
* Wool hat, mitts or gloves (preferably water proof)
* Strong plastic bags to help keep gear dry
* Sleeping bag (this can also be hired locally for approximately $3USD/day-these are high quality and warm)
* Anti-inflammatory tablets (e.g. Ibuprofen)
* Thermal underwear
* Fleece top
* Windproof/waterproof jacket
* Small towel and swim wear
* 4 shirts/t-shirts
* Sun hat
* 1pair of shorts
* 2 pairs of long trousers
* 1pair hiking pants/track pants
* Hiking boots/ sturdy walking shoes
* Sport sandals
* Sun block
* Sunglasses
* Toiletries (biodegradable)
* Watch or alarm clock
* Water bottle
* Pocket knife
* Small flashlight
* First-aid kit (should contain lip salve, Aspirin, Band Aids, anti-histamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhoea, re-hydration powder, extra prescription drugs you may be taking).
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 A challenging 15 day exploration of one of the world's most pristine wildernesses: Patagonia! Mountain hiking, camping, and an unlimited supply of clean, fresh air are all yours on this adventure full of activity and 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 - $15
Tango show BA $30 - $50
Day tour to Tigre & Delta $36 - $55
Day tour to Colonia (Uruguay) $70
Day tour to Estancía $50

El Calafate:
Mountain bike rental $4/hour
Horseback riding $20-$40
Cruise Upsala Glacier $45 (10 Hrs)
Cruise Moreno Glacier $12 (45 mins)
Moreno Ice Trekking $75 (8 Hrs)

El Chaltén:
Horseback riding $17-$25 (half day)
Ice climbing (Tower Glacier) $60
Trip: Laguna del Desierto $15
Viedma lake and glacier $65

Puerto Natales:
Entrance Cerro Dorotea $5
Horseback riding $65 and up

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

Ushuaia:
Estancía Harberton $50
Horseback riding $35-$65
Ski lift $5 (return)
Entrance museum $7
Bus to Park entrance $10 (return)
(Tierra del Fuego Nat’l 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, traveller’s cheques and cash you won’t be using immediately within 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 in Patagonia 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.

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.
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.