Most Inspirational Moment
The remote Estancia El Condor, located on Lago San Martin, was a sensational final location.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Xavier Espil was excellent, very committed to his country and patient in trying to provide for all the needs of the group.
As well as completing the physically arduous treks with us, he had to organize a series of guides in specific places and he seemed to have good relationships with many people (drivers,guides, hoteliers,etc.) who contributed to the success of the trip. He went out of his way to make all the details work. I really liked the way he took care of individual tips from a kitty - this is often not handled well, in my experience, but he worked it out in a fair manner on our behalf.
Advice for Potential Travellers
There is a lot of packing and repacking to do, a sensible day pack is necessary (30 litres seemed to be about right).
Keep your head torch with you, as it is necessary in the refugios and on the camping night. Bring enough US Dollars to be generous with tips and to be able to have coffee and extra meals. The ATM's are often not working.
Tourism (money) is essential to enable these remote areas to sustain viable programs.