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Itinerary
Day 1
Welcome to Argentina!
Capital of Argentina and described as the Paris of South America, Buenos Aires proudly embraces this title, as well as shows off plenty of its own culture! Explore the traditional European architecture, the cobbled streets lined with rustic outdoor cafes, the local antique and artisanal markets that offer plenty of bargain shopping and the mouthwatering aroma of prized Argentine beef sizzling on an open “parrilla” (barbeque) in the air. Buenos Aires is home to some excellent local designers and you will certainly find the perfect leather jacket, long leather boots and handbags for all occasions. Though above all, Buenos Aires is known as the home of the tango. Be sure to enjoy a traditional dinner-tango show and explore the colorful San Telmo and Recoleta neighborhoods.
On arrival in Buenos Aires you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. On your first day in the city you will be contacted by our representative, who will go over your itinerary, provide you with any necessary documentation, and provide any additional information you might need. She/ he will be your local contact while you are traveling with us and will be available to answer your questions, give you tips about places to go, restaurants to try and anything else you might be interested in. Not just in Buenos Aires, but about all the different places you will visit during your trip.
In the afternoon you will be picked up from your hotel to enjoy a private tour of the city. Over the course of four hours or so you will have the chance to visit the historical and political centre of the city: San Telmo with its cobblestone streets, La Boca where Buenos Aires turns colorful and tango is ever present, and the chic and aristocratic Recoleta, where the big palaces remind us that Buenos Aires was once the Paris of the South.
Day 2
Buenos Aires / El Calafate
This morning you will be picked up at your hotel and transferred to the airport for your flight to El Calafate.
Welcome to Southern Patagonia! El Calafate is located in the Patagonian steppe, dry and dramatic. It is on the border of Lago Argentino (Argentina’s biggest lake), and considered the capital of the glaciers. It is the gateway to visit the world renowned Perito Moreno Glacier, one of the only glaciers in the world that is still advancing.
From the airport you will be transferred to your hotel and have the rest of the day to relax or explore the town or if you feel able take the 1km hike out to Laguna Nimez for a beautiful Patagonian sunset or visit “ Glaciarum “ the Ice Museum.
Day 3
El Calafate: Perito Moreno Glacier with Minitrekking
After an early breakfast, you depart for a full day excursion to Perito Moreno Glacier, in Los Glaciers National Park. A UNESCO World Heritage site since 1981 and home to one of the most awe inspiring landscapes in Argentina, Perito Moreno Glacier is a site to behold.
You will be picked up between 7:30 – 7:45 am and head towards Los Glaciares National Park and the Perito Moreno Glacier (please note, as this is a shared guest transfer picking up other travelers as well, the pickup time is approximate). First you go to ‘Bajo Las Sombras’ pier to board the ferry to embark on your ice trekking excursion.Once you get to the other side of the lake you and your fellow trekkers will walk alongside the glacier until you make it onto the ice for a two hour, moderate ice trek that takes you through the fascinating glacial landscape with its streams, small lagoons, crevasses and sculptural ice formations all of which are the most incredible shades of blue. Truly a once in a lifetime experience!
Note: This excursion is only available for passengers aged 10 years to 65 years old. No exceptions. All participants must be in good physical condition and able to hike for a full day.
Day 4
El Calafate
Today you have an early breakfast leaving your hotel at 7:00 am to head to Bandera pier and board a boat to Estancia Cristina.
Navigate the turquoise waters of Lake Argentino, past floating icebergs as you journey deep into the national park en route to the remote and gorgeous Estancia Cristina. Once there, learn about its history on a brief tour and embark on an adventurous 4x4 excursion to the breathtaking viewpoint of the Upsala Glacier. Climbing the mountains on a short trek, discover the most impressive views of the oriental front of the glacier, Lake William, Patagonian ice field and the Andes range. Trek back to the Estancia and cruise back to El Calafate. (This excursion is a shared service)
Day 5
El Calafate / El Chalten
This morning, you will be collected by bus for a 3 hour journey along the famous Route 40. Along the way you will be able to enjoy the splendor of the desert of Southern Patagonia.
Your journey will take you along La Leona River that connects Lake Argentino and Lake Viedma. On the riverside you will see La Leona Road House where Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid hid for a month after robbing a bank.
When you reach El Chalten, the bus may stop for 15 minutes at the Park Ranger's office and you will receive an orientation and general explanation about the park, including recommendations of what to do and see, etc. They are very informative and enthusiastic to share their love for the Park.
El Chalten is the top rated trekking destination and the Argentinean capital of trekking. Located at the foot of the Fitz Roy Mountain, surrounded by glaciers, lakes, rivers and forest, it is still a hidden gem of the Argentinean south. This charming little village is the trailhead for most hikes and is a paradise for walkers and trekkers alike.
Once you have checked in to your hotel, explore the surroundings, stroll around town, or just relax in the local microbrewery.
Day 6
El Chalten / Mount Fitz Roy and Laguna de Los Tres
Today be prepared for an exciting day in the wilds of Southern Argentina. El Chalten has something for hikers of all levels of experience.
You will be picked up from your hotel at 08.30 am and transferred to El Pilar , the trail head for Laguna de Los Tres trek. This trek is 4 hours each way and is rated medium for difficulty level. From El Pilar Hotel (located 20 km far from El Chalten) this is the suggested start point for the trek as there are no steep ascents at the beginning, and you do not repeat parts of the route. This route allows us to admire vistas such as Piedras Blancas Glacier along the way. The trekking starts with gentle inclines through a lengas forest until you get to Piedras Blancas Glacier, around one and a half hours later, enjoy stunning views of this beautiful glacier and its lagoon. Then, about 45 minutes later, you get to Poincenot base camp and Rio Blanco base camp. Following the trail for another hour or so you arrive at Laguna de Los Tres, with an incredible view of the Fitz Roy emerging from the ice. later you return to El Chaltén via Laguna Capri.
Day 7
El Chalten
Day at leisure to relax or if you prefer take another trekking excursion, for example Mount Torre Lagoon trekking excursion.
Day 8
El Chalten / El Calafate / Buenos Aires
This morning take your transfer back to El Calafate airport for your flight to Buenos Aires
The three hours driving back will be a good opportunity to rest and enjoy the view.
On arrival in Buenos Aires you will be taken to your hotel.
Day 9
Buenos Aires – Dinner & Tango Show at La Ventana
In the evening you will be picked up from your hotel and driven to one of Buenos Aires’ most emblematic cultural highlight’s: a Dinner and Tango Show offering a spectacular demonstration of the finest local dancing accompanied by delicious Argentine cuisine and all the Malbec you’d like. Before dinner you will be able to choose between a tango class of 1hr or enjoy an amazing wine tasting.
At the end of the evening, you will be driven back to your hotel.
Day 10
Buenos Aires
Depending on your flight time you will be picked up and transfered to the international airport for your flight back home.
Have a great trip!
If you're not quite ready to head home after this incredible adventure, extend your stay in beautiful Patagonia and join us on our 3 day extension tour to Argentinean Iguazu Falls.
Note: Every effort is made to ensure that we follow the itinerary. However, we reserve the right to make changes due to weather conditions, natural disasters, or any other circumstance that would affect your security, our local suppliers reserve the right to change the order of services as necessary.
Dates & Rates
Supplementary Information
If you're not quite ready to head home after this incredible adventure, extend your stay in beautiful Patagonia and join us on our 3 day extension tour to Argentinean Iguazu Falls.
Please note: Insurance (Medical and Evacuation Coverage is mandatory)
Included:
- Transfers mentioned in the itinerary
- Round trip bus El Calafate / El Chalten / El Calafate
- 3 nights in Buenos Aires, 3 in El Calafate & 3 in El Chalten
- All meals as mentioned in the itinerary
- Tours described in the itinerary
- Entrance fees
- Bilingual guide (English / Spanish)
- Domestic flights
- Full service of our Adventure Consultants
Not Included:
- International flights
- Meals not listed on the itinerary
- Drinks (unless specifically listed)
- Items of a personal nature
- Gratuities
FAQ & More
What entry documentation do I need?
All passengers entering Argentina must have a valid passport (we recommend at least 6 months from your departure date). Make sure you have enough blank pages for entry and exit stamps.
If you are traveling with children under the age of 18 years old parents will be require to also show the minor’s birth certificate.
If a minor is traveling with only one parent or with a guardian then you must have an authorization certificate signed by a Notary Public.
Do I need to pay Reciprocity Tax?
If you are a US citizen you no longer need to pay Reciprocity Tax. This was permanently suspended in September 2016. Citizens of Canada and Australia do currently have to pay Reciprocity Tax. This must be paid before entering the country and can be done on line at https://reciprocidad.provincianet.com.ar/Registro.aspx
What if my trip crosses into Chile?
Please be sure to carry your passport if you will be crossing into Chile. U.S. and Canadian Citizens no longer have to pay a reciprocity tax when entering Chile. Be sure to have a completed customs form. The Chilean customs officials are extremely strict about the transporting of fresh foods, plants and seeds from Argentina. If you are unsure what is allowed mark it on your customs form and the official will let you know if you can take it or not.
Should I be aware of any safety issues while traveling in Argentina?
In every big city in the world you should exercise caution and Argentina is no exception. The biggest problems are pick pocketing and purse snatching. Fortunately violence on the person is extremely rare. If you use a combination of caution, common sense and heed local advice you will be unlikely to encounter any problems.
Are any vaccinations needed for this trip?
There are no specific vaccinations required for visiting Argentina. If you have any concerns please check with your health care adviser or visit www.cdc.gov
When is summer time in Argentina?
Argentina is located in the Southern Hemisphere and seasons are:
Summer – December 21 – March 20
Fall (autumn) – March 21 – June 20
Winter – June 21 – September 20
Spring – September 21 to December 20
When is the best time for wildlife?
You will see wildlife in Argentina pretty much year round but there are a couple of animals that have specific seasons.
• Whale watching is best from mid-June through end of November
• Penguin season is October through April
What if I have special dietary requirements?
If you have a special dietary requirement we will do our very best to accommodate this however, we cannot always guarantee the availability of specific products. Please make us aware of any special requirements as early in the booking process as possible.
Are all National Park fees included?
Unless specifically stated Park Fees are not included. This is because most parks and reserves do not allow us to pre-pay for tickets. These fees will always be required in the local currency and a list of places and fees will be included on your itinerary.
What is the time difference?
Argentina is 1 hour ahead of Eastern Standard Time.
Do I need a plug adapter or power converter?
Argentina electrical outlets are 220V/50Hz so please check your electrical items for voltage tolerance. Argentina uses plugs type C and I.
What is the recommended gratuity?
Tipping is not mandatory but generally expected in Argentina.
Generally:
Tip a concierge around $2 per bag if they assist you.
In a restaurant 10% is the norm – please tip in cash.
Trip leaders – Typically 10% of your trip cost – The US Dollar is the preferred currency.
What is the baggage allowance on internal flights?
Local flights have a 33lb checked bag weight limit plus one carry-on of 10lbs.
Is WiFi available in all the hotels?
Hotels in the bigger cities will typically have wireless internet available in all parts of the hotel. In the smaller cities hotels have WiFi available in the common areas.
What currency should I bring?
The Argentinian Peso is the official currency of Argentina. The US Dollar is also accepted in many places.