Journeys: Iconic Patagonia Adventure Tour

Follow the curve of South America from Santiago's sun-drenched vineyards into the sweeping wilderness of Patagonia. Stand before the granite spires of Torres del Paine, feel the thunder of Perito Moreno's shifting ice, and revel in the flavours of traditional Patagonian cuisine. Finish in vibrant Buenos Aires, taking in its grand architecture and fiery tango culture.

Where will we stay during the trip?  

Hotels (7 nts).

Is there an extra cost for travelling solo?  

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 or multi-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.

What should I know about currency, credit cards, and exchanging money while on this tour?  

The currency in Chile is the Chilean Peso (CLP), and in Argentina, the Argentine Peso (ARS).

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.

We recommend bringing USD in cash for the Argentinean portion of this tour as it is easier than using a credit card or withdrawing ARS from an ATM. USD currency is accepted in travel agencies for booking optional activities.

We do not recommend bringing travellers cheques as they are very difficult to change in country.

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

What are the tipping guidelines for this trip?  

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 Expedition Leader for specific recommendations based on the circumstances and culture.

Also at the end of each trip if you felt your National Geographic Expedition 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.

What activities are optional on this trip?  

Buenos Aires
- Tango Dinner Show
- La Boca and Isla Maciel: One History, Two Shores

What are the mandatory group rules regarding laws and behaviour?  

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 our 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 Expedition Leaders have the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they use prostitutes.

What should I do if I can't find my airport transfer or experience arrival issues?  

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 Expedition 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.

What are the mandatory travel insurance requirements for this trip?  

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 Expedition Leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy please bear in mind that all clients must have medical coverage and that we require a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. 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.

Are there any health considerations I should know before travelling?  

Please note inoculations may be required for the country visited. It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up to date medical travel information well before departure.

You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. We recommend that you carry a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers / antibacterial wipes 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 ratings for trip specific information. G Adventures reserves the right to exclude any traveller from all or part of a trip without refund if in the reasonable opinion of our Expedition Leader, they are unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group.

What details should I be aware of when planning my departure day?  

If you would like to book an airport Departure transfer for your tour, please contact our Sales Team or your Travel Agent in advance of travel.

Are there any specific safety considerations for this itinerary?  

Please note: You should be especially careful when wandering about major cities in Latin America 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. Be safe and leave your passport, credit cards, cash and valuables you won't be using immediately within the hotel's safety deposit box. Most locals are honest and genuinely helpful and friendly, but be safe and enjoy!

What is the maximum number of travellers on this tour?  

16

What are the meals like on this trip?  

Eating is a big part of traveling. Travelling with G 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 Expedition Leader will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip.

Note: Food is generally considered to be more expensive in Argentina and Chile than in most other South American Countries.

Are local flights included in the cost of the trip?  

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.

CARRY ON LUGGAGE ALLOWANCE:
Please Note, Aerolineas Argentinas allows 1 piece of luggage that weighs up to 15kg on internal flights. If luggage is overweight, the airline charges ARS $15,000 at check-in (approx. 20-25 USD) up to a max of 23 kgs per piece. Luggage over 23 kgs is not allowed for internal flights.

Is there a disclaimer I should read before booking this trip?  

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 the operator. 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.

What is the role of the group leader during this trip?  

All National Geographic Journeys with G Adventures group trips are accompanied by a National Geographic Expedition Leader. The aim of the Expedition 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.

What meals are included in this trip?  

7 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 1 dinner

What are the modes of transportation on my trip?  

Private vehicle, plane, boat, walking.

What should I pack for this trip?  

Cold Weather:
• Long-sleeved shirts or sweater
• Scarf
• Warm gloves
• Warm hat
• Warm layers
• Warm waterproof jacket

Documents:
• Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)
• Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)
• Passport (required) (With photocopies)
• Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)
• Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)

Essentials:
• Footwear (required) (Closed toe suggested)
• Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)
• Binoculars (optional)
• Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)
• Cash, credit and debit cards
• Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)
• Ear plugs
• First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)
• Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)
• Fleece top/sweater
• Hat
• Headphones (Noise-cancelling recommended)
• Locks for bags
• Long pants/jeans
• Moneybelt
• Outlet adapter
• Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)
• Reusable water bottle
• Shirts/t-shirts
• Sleepwear
• Small travel towel
• Sunglasses
• Swimwear
• Watch and alarm clock
• Waterproof backpack cover
• Windproof rain jacket

Health & Safety:
• Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)
• Hand sanitizer
• Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)

Smart Dress:
• Smart outfit (For evenings out)

Warm Weather:
• Sandals/flip-flops
• Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)
• Sturdy water shoes/sandals
• Sun hat/bandana
• Swimwear

What are the main highlights of this trip?  

Experience a private winery tour and enjoy a hosted tasting of wines paired with gourmet bites, Explore Torres del Paine on a guided tour past granite peaks and turquoise lakes, Take in views from scenic boardwalks and cruise past the dramatic northern face of Perito Moreno glacier.

Is there a travel disclaimer for my itinerary I should review before booking this trip?  

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 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.

What should I consider when planning my personal expenses and discretionary spending for this itinerary?  

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.

How can I share feedback about my trip experience?  

Earn 5% off your next G Adventures Tour (up to $100 USD)*

After your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback information is so important to us and to thank you for your time, we are pleased to offer a 5% discount (up to a maximum of $100 USD) off your next G Adventures holiday. All you need to do is submit the form within 4 weeks of the completion of your tour, and you'll be able to join the thousands of travellers who have taken 2, 3, 4 or even 10 or more tours with us!

Discount cannot be combined with other offers or applied to 'Independent' style trips. Maximum discount value is $100 USD (or equivalent currency). Valid for new bookings only. G Adventures reserves the right to withdraw or modify this offer at any time without notice. Limited to one discount per person.

What are the packing guidelines and luggage restrictions?  

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, soft rolling bag or backpack, whichever you find easiest to carry. A good size daypack is also essential.

If I choose to purchase My Own Room, are there any exceptions during the trip?  

Please note that if you have booked the "My Own Room" option for this tour, you will receive your own single room for all night stops

What emergency funds do I need access to on this trip?  

Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!

Are international flights included in this trip?  

No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour.

However, on some tours travelling between two different countries, international flights are included as part of the itinerary and price of the tour. Please speak to your GCO or booking agent for further details.

In addition, check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.

What important notes should I be aware of before the trip?  

1. LUGGAGE ALLOWANCE
Please Note: Aerolineas Argentinas allows 1 piece of luggage that weighs up to 15kg on internal flights. If luggage is overweight, the airline charges ARS $15,000 at check-in (approx. 20-25 USD) up to a max of 23 kgs per piece. Luggage over 23 kgs is not allowed for internal flights.

2. YELLOW FEVER
It may be required to show a Yellow Fever certificate upon entering the country visited. Please check in with your local health expert for advice on Yellow Fever and other inoculations required for this area.

3. ACCOMMODATION NOTE:
Please be aware that properties we stay in with only two stories may not have elevators installed and climbing the stairs with your luggage will be necessary.

4. COMBO TRIP
Please note that this tour combines with other G Adventures tours. As such, the staff and some travel companions on your tour may have previously been traveling together with G Adventures, prior to Day 1 of your tour. Likewise, some staff and travel companions may be continuing together on another G Adventures tour, after your trip concludes.

What are the joining instructions?  

For details of your joining hotel please refer to your tour voucher, G Account, the G Adventures App or contact your travel agent.

An arrival transfer is included when you arrive on Day 1, or if you arrive up to three days prior provided that you have booked your pre-accommodation through National Geographic Journeys in our joining hotel. Due to customer experience and quality considerations, all services related to the tour must be continuous.

Our driver will be waiting for you with a National Geographic Journeys sign, and they will be waiting for you outside the luggage hall. If for any reason you are not met at the airport, please call our local support line. If you are unable to make contact for whatever reason, please make your way to the joining point hotel via taxi.

Please note that day 1 is an arrival day and no activities have been planned on this day.

Upon arrival to your Joining Hotel (note that check-in time will be in the afternoon), look for a note or bulletin board in the reception with a note from your Expedition Leader. This note will give the details of your Welcome Meeting on day 1 (usually between 5pm and 7pm), where you will get a chance to meet your Expedition Leader and other travellers, as well as learn more about how the tour will run. If you don't see a note, please ask reception for details!

If you are arriving later and will miss the Welcome Meeting, your Expedition Leader will leave a note at reception for you with any information you may need, and with morning instructions for the next day.

Where can I do my laundry on this trip?  

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.

What's Included  

Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Wine, Family and Vineyard Experience, Santiago
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Meeting, Santiago. Arrival transfer. Santiago city tour with a local guide. Orientation walk in Puerto Natales. Full-day panoramic tour of Torres del Paine National Park. Visit the Glaciarium Museum in El Calafate. Guided tour to the Perito Moreno Glacier. Boat ride to the north face of Perito Moreno Glacier. Internal flights. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities

What is the maximum and typical number of participants on this tour?  

Max 16, Avg 12.

Do I need to pay a departure tax?  

Most airlines include departure tax in the cost of the ticket. If this is not included then it should be mentioned in your flight booking confirmation

What are the age restrictions for this trip?  

You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.

Who will be leading the group?  

National Geographic Expedition Leader throughout, local guides.