Current as of: April 24, 2024 - 09:32
Patagonian Highlights Trip Notes
- Ways to Travel: Guided Group, Private Group Adventures
- Destination: Argentina, Chile
- Programmes: Culture
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Activity Level:
3 out of 7 - Moderate
- 13 Days: Land Only
- Ages: 18+
- Trip Code: AAA
- Carbon Footprint: 88kg CO2e
Trip Overview
Discover the spectacular wilderness of southern Chile and Argentina
Rugged, snow-capped mountains stand amid the wild south of Argentina and Chile, fringed by huge icy lakes and windswept grasslands. In the distance, shy guanacos roam and a few hardy gauchos tend their many sheep. We discover the sheer-sided peak of Mount Fitzroy and the immense Perito Moreno Glacier, from which ice chunks often tumble into the water. Our journey culminates in Ushuaia – the southernmost city in the world. Renowned for expansive landscapes and outdoor activities, Patagonia never fails to astound.
At a Glance
- Travel by minibus, private coaches and two internal flights
- Three walking days of up to eight hours’ duration
- Group normally 6 to 16, plus leader. Minimum age: 18
- 10 nights in standard hotels and two nights in comfortable hotels
Highlights
- Discover Torres del Paine National Park, including a hike to the base of the Towers of Paine
- See amazing glaciers in Los Glaciares National Park with an optional boat trip at Moreno Glacier
- Marvel at the stunning granite peaks of Fitzroy Massif and Cerro Torre
- Travel to the southernmost city in the world, Ushuaia
- Experience the vast, wind-blown expanses of the Patagonia Steppe
- Enjoy free time to explore Buenos Aires, the beautiful and cosmopolitan capital of Argentina
Is This Trip for You?
This trip is graded Activity Level 3 (Moderate). For more on our trip gradings, visit our Activity Level Guidelines page.
On this itinerary, we feature two classic Patagonia treks, one in Los Glaciares National Park (Day 3) and one in Torres del Paine National Park (Day 8). Both are full-day treks that have a section of steep and rocky terrain, which make both treks graded as “challenging”. We recommend you have reasonably good fitness levels to maximise your enjoyment of the two classic trek opportunities in Los Glaciares and Torres del Paine National Park. On each of those days, we also offer a shorter trek option for guests that take in each parks scenic beauty but at a more moderate pace. The highest point comes on the hike to the Towers of Paine, at the lookout point 2,907ft (886m) above sea level. Please note, all the walks/hikes are non-compulsory.
There are two internal flights included, normally with Aerolineas Argentinas. The flight times can be erratic and there can be last-minute schedule changes. Depending on flight availability, there may be a supplement to pay.
In addition to the two included flights, we have some long drives to enjoy the sweeping views of Patagonia. The longest drives are when we cross the border from El Calafate to Torres del Paine and when travelling south from Cerro Sombrero to Ushuaia.
Group
There will be a local leader, drivers and local guides where needed.
Adult min age: 18
Min group size: 6
Max group size: 16
Itinerary
Land Only
- Start City: Buenos Aires
- End City: Buenos Aires
Land Only Itinerary
Depart London
Start Buenos Aires; walking tour
Our local leader will meet us today for a welcome briefing and to take us on an introductory walking tour of the city. The evening is free for you to visit one of the many excellent restaurants in the capital, many serving the much-revered Argentine steaks.
Accommodation: Argenta Tower (or similar)
Fly to El Calafate; dive to El Chaltén
This morning, we fly from Buenos Aires to El Calafate and transfer (approximately three to four hours) to the small mountain town of El Chaltén. The town has a beautiful location in Los Glaciares National Park with breath-taking views of Mount Fitzroy and the Southern Patagonian Ice Field.
Accommodation: Hosteria Don Atilio (or similar)
Los Glaciares National Park; trek to Cerro Fitzroy Base Camp
Today we set off for a day of trekking amid incredible mountains and valleys of Los Glaciares National Park. We start with a hike to Cerro Fitzroy Base Camp with views of the massif ahead. In the afternoon, we come out of the forest to trek up to Laguna de los Tres, a glacial lake whose still waters reflect the three main peaks of the range. This is a full day challenging trek over fairly rough terrain with impressive, rugged scenery along the way.
Note – We also offer a moderate trek option to take in these storied mountain peaks and scenic beauty of the parks flora and fauna at a more leisurely pace.
Accommodation: Hosteria Don Atilio (or similar)
Optional activities; to El Calafate
Today has been left free to enjoy an additional trek or an optional excursion in the area. In the late afternoon, we transfer (approximately three to four hours) back to El Calafate.
Trekking option: 9mi (14km), six hours
Accommodation: Hosteria Puerto San Julian (or similar)
Visit Perito Moreno Glacier; optional boat trip
Today we visit the Perito Moreno Glacier. This jagged ice sheet stretches more than 3mi (5km) across Lago Argentino and rises 200ft (61m) out of the cold waters. It is the fastest-moving glacier on the planet and the eerie creaks and thunderous groans add an atmosphere of anticipation. Every so often, an office block-sized chunk of ice calves from its face into the water below before slowly floating down the lake as an iceberg. An optional boat trip gives an even greater appreciation of the immense scale of this wonder.
Accommodation: Hosteria Puerto San Julian (or similar)
Free day in El Calafate
We spend a second day here to explore. We can take a gentle walk along Lago Argentina to see birdlife (including flamingos), or a slightly more demanding hike for fantastic views over the Patagonian Steppe and towards the mountainous border with Chile. Alternatively, join an optional excursion to a local estancia (ranch) or to Todo Glaciares – this navigation includes Upsala Glacier, Bahia Onelli (where glacier pieces float in the water) and the Spegazzinni Glacier. Please ask your tour leader and they will help you to arrange it.
Accommodation: Hosteria Puerto San Julian (or similar)
To Torres del Paine National Park
After breakfast, we have a long drive (approximately eight to nine hours) across the border into Chile before we arrive in one of the most beautiful national parks in the world, Torres del Paine (due to local regulations we must change buses at the border). From here, we meet our Chilean guide and drive around some of the park. We may have time after check-in for a short walk next to Laguna Amarga or Laguna Azul, which offer great panoramic views of the Paine Massif and the striking granite Horns of Paine.
Accommodation: Hosteria Pehoe (or similar)
Day hike to the Torres del Paine
Without a doubt, one of the park highlights is the hike up to the base of the Torres del Paine. The walk itself is beautiful, trekking primarily through forests along the Ascencio River valley. This is a full day challenging trek and the last section is steep with rocky terrain, so you need a reasonably good level of fitness and confidence. It is important to recognize that adverse weather conditions can make this walk much harder; your tour leader will give a briefing regarding the trek and answer any questions you may have.
Note – We also offer a moderate trek option to take in the majesty of Torres del Paine National Park views, flora and fauna at a more leisurely pace. Once we finish the treks, we take a transfer (approximately two hours) to Puerto Natales.
Accommodation: Hotel Lady Florence Dixie or Hotel Baquedano
To Tierra del Fuego
After breakfast, we have free time before a fairly long transfer in the afternoon, through dramatic scenery to Cerro Sombrero. This journey involves a short ferry crossing over the Magellan Straits. We advise you take plenty of water and snacks for the journey (approximately seven to eight hours). In the evening, we’ll have dinner together at the hotel in the small town of Cerro Sombrero.
Accommodation: Hosteria Tunkelen (or similar)
To Ushuaia, the end of the world
Tierra del Fuego (Land of Fire) is named after the original inhabitants who lit bonfires to ward off the winter chill. Crossing the island, we’ll have views of the most southerly part of the Andes before catching our first glimpses of Ushuaia – the end of the world! This is a long driving day (approximately seven to eight hours) but we use a private bus to make the journey more comfortable. We should arrive at our hotel mid-afternoon depending on weather conditions and traffic.
Accommodation: Hotel Ushuaia (or similar)
Walk in Tierra del Fuego National Park; optional visit to penguin colony
We’ll spend this morning in the stark wilderness of Tierra del Fuego National Park, walking among varied terrain, flora and fauna. In the afternoon, there is an optional boat ride along the Beagle Channel to see marine wildlife including penguins, sea lions and many species of water bird including a flightless duck. We also enjoy fantastic views of Ushuaia and its backdrop of often snow-capped peaks as we head out on the boat. Please ask your tour leader and they will help you to arrange it.
For those wanting more adventure or not wishing to trek, an optional half-day 4WD excursion is on offer, which takes us deep into the wilds of Tierra del Fuego, where conventional transport would fail to reach, including the remote lakes of Fagnano and Escondido (please note, it is not possible to see penguins on this tour).
Accommodation: Hotel Ushuaia (or similar)
Fly to Buenos Aires
Depending upon the flight schedule, we may have free time this morning in Ushuaia. There are magnificent views from the hills leading up to the Martial Glacier and some small shops to pick up souvenirs. Ushuaia has just one museum, housed in the former prison, which is worth a visit. We fly back to Buenos Aires and usually arrive in time to visit one of the excellent tango shows in the old quarter of San Telmo (optional) or enjoy a last group meal together.
Accommodation: Argenta Tower Retiro Hotel (or similar)
End Buenos Aires
Depending on the time of your flight home, you may have another chance to see more of cosmopolitan Buenos Aires. After last night’s tango show, you might be tempted to learn a few steps or watch it in the streets and plazas. A visit to the grave of Evita in the remarkable Recoleta Cemetery, said to be the most expensive real estate in the world, is also possible.
Depart Buenos Aires
Depending on the time of your flight home you may have another chance to see more of cosmopolitan Buenos Aires. After last night’s tango show we might be tempted to learn a few steps, or watch it in the streets and plazas – particularly in the old quarter of San Telmo. A visit to the grave of Evita in the remarkable Recoleta Cemetery, said to be the most expensive real estate in the world, is also possible. Those on group flights will leave today for the flight back to London.
Arrive London
Extend Your Trip
Iguazu Falls Extension
To the far northeast of Argentina, boarding Brazil, lies the magnificent Iguazu Falls (or Iguassu). Add four days to your trip to experience this awe-inspiring sight. Staying on the Argentinian side, you can wander around this Unesco World Heritage national park packed with flora and fauna. In the heart of the park, you will find the not-to-be-missed cascading waters. You can also get up close to the falls by taking a boat trip as an optional extra. The detailed itinerary is here.
Please ask your sales representative for more details. Prices listed are starting prices.
Salta Extension
Travel to the northwest Argentinean provinces of Salta and Jujuy and encounter a Dali-esque land where nature bends the rules in breath-taking fashion. This extension is the perfect way to end your trip to Argentina, exploring a profoundly different destination. We drive along picturesque roads, through salt flats and colourful rock gorges. Salta is known as the most beautiful city in Argentina. You will not be disappointed. The detailed itinerary is here.
Please ask your sales representative for more details. Prices listed are starting prices.
Accommodation
Hotels and hosterias
Our Patagonia Highlights itinerary mixes a variety of three-star hotels, each reflecting the different regions this trip visits. In sophisticated Buenos Aires, we stay in a modern hotel with a rooftop pool. In Patagonia, we stay in comfortable and welcoming hosterias (small hotels) full of local charm. In Torres del Paine, we have a stunning location facing the Paine Massif and in Ushuaia our ‘end of the world’ hotel overlooks the Beagle Channel. Below are some of the hotels we typically use.
Buenos Aires: Argenta Tower (nights 1 and 12)
In the Retiro neighbourhood, Argenta Tower has spacious, comfortable rooms, plus a restaurant and cafe serving an array of international flavours and quick bites. Guests particularly enjoy the rooftop pool area, where they can enjoy city views with a glass of Argentinian red or white wine.
El Chalten: Hosteria Don Atilio (nights 2-3)
Locally owned and operated, Hosteria Don Atilio has an inviting ambiance and offers a comfortable, convenient stay while exploring the natural wonders of the region. Ideal for trekkers, the hosteria is within walking distance of the trailheads to the Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre mountains.
El Calafate: Hosteria Puerto San Julian (nights 4-6)
The design of Hosteria Puerto San Julian is regional and rustic, combining Patagonian stone and wood. The hotel has a welcoming atmosphere with a pleasant lounge area where you can relax with a drink after touring Perito Moreno Glacier. It is also a short walk into the main commercial street of El Calafate, which is full of shops, restaurants, bars and cafes.
Torres del Paine: Hosteria Pehoe (night 7)
Location, location, location. Hosteria Pehoe is on an island in the middle of Lake Pehoe in Torres del Paine National Park in Chile. The unique spot offers stunning views of the lake and the Cuernos mountain peaks – cameras at the ready. Aside from the incredible photographic opportunities, this small hotel has a lounge, dining room, and a bar where you can take in the majesty of Patagonia.
Ushuaia: Hotel Ushuaia (nights 10-11)
Hotel Ushuaia is perched on a hillside, which affords excellent views of the Beagle Channel. It offers a comfortable stay and a lounge-bar in which to share your Tierra del Fuego (Land of Fire) travel experiences. The property is a short taxi ride to the bustling main commercial street (Ave San Martin), where you will find shops, restaurants, bars, cafes, and the End of the World Museum.
Single supplement from USD 1,297
Food & Drink
All breakfasts, two lunches and three dinners are included.
Hotel breakfasts are normally buffet-style and are included. The accommodation will arrange packed lunches for trekking days. There is a variety of good-quality food in local restaurants and cafes, usually for relatively low prices (although the refuge we stay in for the standard itinerary in Torres del Paine is the exception as facilities here are limited). Vegetarians are catered for throughout the trip, but please advise us before you travel so we can make arrangements on your behalf.
Transport
We use a combination of internal flights and private coaches.
Please be aware that the timings of the internal flights can be quite erratic and there can often be last-minute schedule changes. Depending on the availability of these flights, there may be a supplement to pay.
Weather & Seasonality
We schedule our Patagonia trips between October and April to take advantage of the longer daylight hours and warmer temperatures. During these months, the temperatures in Buenos Aires reach a maximum of 30C (86F); in El Calafate/Torres del Paine/Punta Arenas around 15C (59F); and in the extreme south, Tierra del Fuego, 14C (57F). These are the daytime maximums, and the average temperatures are likely to be a little lower than this.
In Patagonia, the nights can drop to freezing point, but often remain just above. Patagonian summers tend to be dry although rain cannot be ruled out, particularly in the mountainous regions along the Chile-Argentina border where you might experience all four seasons in one day! Patagonia is renowned for being windy…and sometimes very windy (dress accordingly and watch your step).
In Patagonia, the changing weather is part of the adventure; however, in extreme wind/weather conditions our Tour Leader may modify the days itinerary in favour of passengers safety.
Joining Instructions
Key information
Start hotel: Argenta Tower Retiro Hotel, Juncal, 868, Retiro, C1062ABF, Buenos Aires
Phone: +54 11 4325-4100
Recommended arrival time: Midday at the hotel to catch the welcome briefing and walking tour
Airport: Ministro Pistarini International Airport (EZE)
Getting to the start hotel
The start hotel is approximately 40 minutes’ drive from the airport. Your options for this journey are:
Take an Exodus transfer
Exodus provides a group arrival transfer from the airport, which is timed to coincide with the arrival our chosen flight from London, UK. You may join this transfer at no extra cost, provided you can be at the airport before the transfer leaves. Speak to your sales representative for the group arrival transfer times or to arrange a private transfer. Note – if booking a Flight Inclusive package with us, we will include a free arrival transfer providing that your flight arrives at Buenos Aires Ministro Pistarini International Airport (EZE) before midday on the tour start date only.
Make your own way
You can reach the start hotel relatively easily by taxi, which should cost around US$53 from the airport. On arrival at the hotel please make the reception staff aware you are part of an Exodus group and they will have more details on meeting with your leader and group.
If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.
Catching your return flight
There’s a group departure transfer to the airport for customers who Exodus booked onto a chosen flight to London, UK. Please speak to your sales representative if you wish to join. If the group departure transfer does not suit your flight time, speak to your sales representative to arrange an alternative transfer.
Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers will be sent to you as part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent.
Location start: Buenos Aires
Location end: Buenos Aires
What To Take
Essential Equipment
- Good sturdy shoes or walking boots
- Warm clothes including windbreaker, jackets and waterproofs
- Layers to deal with changing temperatures
- Sun hat with brim and a warm hat
- Sunscreen
- Gloves (waterproof or water resistant)
- Torch (flashlight) or headtorch (head lamp)
- Strong UV-protection sunglasses
- Small daypack for walks and sightseeing
- Hand sanitiser
- Walking poles (highly recommended if you generally use them and find them supportive)
In Chile, the import of crop and animal products is strictly regulated to avoid vermin, plagues, and the diffusion of non-native plants and animals. Fresh fruits and vegetables cannot be imported. If you happen to be carrying such products, you must throw them away before getting to customs or declare them and hand them over to be destroyed. You must complete a declaration on arrival into Chile and luggage will be checked. Failure to comply with this legislation will result in large fines and time-consuming difficulties with the border authorities. Please ensure you are not carrying these goods on arrival to avoid this problem.
Internal flights in the destination country are subject to a weight limit of 33lb (15kg). Please visit the Aerolíneas Argentinas website for information on the cost of additional baggage.
Please note, this cannot be organised prior to check-in.
Optional Equipment
In addition to packing as lightly and sensibly as possible, for Patagonia treks we also recommend:
- Thermal underwear / base layer (long sleeve tops & full-length bottoms)
- Moisture wicking T-shirt
- Travel or inflatable neck pillow / personal music player / books etc for the long drives
- Small sewing kit with safety pins
- Cold-water detergent or laundry soap (biodegradable), for items on the go
Maps
- Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego (Automapa): A good map of the whole Patagonian region of Chile and Argentina, including separate national park maps
- Southern Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego Coast to Coast (Zagier & Urruty): Lots of relief detail, with glaciers, forest and mountains shown very clearly
- Good maps are also found in Patagonia, your tour leader will be happy to suggest local shops where maps are sold.
Practical Information
Passport
Remember to check the expiration date of your passport if travelling internationally. Many countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after the date of your scheduled return.
Visa
Argentina
Travellers from the UK, US and EU normally do not need a visa to enter Argentina. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.
Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.
- Australia: www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/americas/argentina
- Canada: www.travel.gc.ca/destinations/argentina
- United Kingdom: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/argentina/entry-requirements
- USA: www.travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Argentina.html
Please note, if you are crossing the border into Argentina from Chile on your trip, we will need to know your profession to provide when entering Argentina.
Chile
Travellers from the UK, US and EU normally do not need a visa to enter Chile. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.
Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.
- Australia: www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/americas/chile
- Canada: www.travel.gc.ca/destinations/chile
- United Kingdom: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/chile/entry-requirements
- USA: www.travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Chile.html
Please note, a PDI tourist card will be given to you by migration at Santiago airport, upon arrival to Chile, and asked for upon departure from Chile (please retain this important slip of paper). The PDI certifies that you are a visitor and must be given back to migration upon departure from Chile.
If you are travelling via the USA and are eligible to transit under the Visa Waiver Program, you are required to register in advance for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization). There is a US$21 charge, which is only payable online. Please see our website www.exodus.co.uk/usvisa for further information.
Please note, not all nationalities have the same eligibility for travel to or transit via the USA, and you may not be covered by the visa waiver program. Regulations stipulate that any person who has travelled to Iran, Iraq, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Sudan, Syria or Yemen since March 2011, or have dual nationalities of these countries, may no longer qualify. In addition, if you have travelled to Cuba since 12 January 2021 you will not be eligible for the visa waiver program and should instead apply for a visa.
If you are in doubt of your eligibility, please check the visa requirements with your local US embassy.
Vaccinations and Health
Argentina
There are no required vaccinations. However, recommended vaccinations include tetanus, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, rabies, typhoid, and yellow fever (strongly recommended if you intend to visit the Iguazu Falls due to a recent outbreak in the Misiones province). Please check all vaccination recommendations with your doctor or travel clinic.
Bilharzia is known to occur in some lakes or rivers in Argentina; follow advice from your guide or leader locally before venturing for a swim.
Dengue and zika, both mosquito‐borne viral diseases, are known risks in Argentina. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available; therefore, the best form of prevention is to take the usual precautions to avoid mosquito bites.
Chile
There are no required vaccinations. However, you may want to consider vaccinations for tetanus, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, rabies and typhoid.
Dengue fever, a tropical viral disease spread by daytime biting mosquitoes, is a known risk in places visited. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available, so we recommend you take the usual precautions to avoid mosquito bites.
We are advised that there is no risk of malaria on this trip.
Zika fever is a mosquito‐borne viral disease and a known risk in places visited on this trip. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available, we therefore strongly recommend you take the usual precautions to avoid mosquito bites.
Local Time
Argentina's time zone: America/Argentina/Buenos_Aires (UTC -03:00)
Chile's time zone: America/Santiago (UTC -04:00)
Electricity
Argentina's electricity: Plug types C (two round pins) and I (three flat pins) – 220V, 50Hz
Chile's electricity: Plug types C (two round pins) and L (three round pins in a row) – 220V, 50Hz
Money
Argentina's currency: Argentine peso (ARS)
Chile's currency: Chilean peso (CLP)
ATM Availability
ATMs supporting major credit cards are available in Buenos Aires, El Calafate, Puerto Natales and Ushuaia. They may not be available in smaller towns or remote destinations. Please note, in addition to withdrawal fees, some banks may only let you withdraw small amounts per day, depending on the bank. If planning to use your bank card overseas you should always inform your bank in advance to prevent problems with withdrawals.
Please note: While in Argentina, we recommend exchanging US dollars (USD) or using your credit card to get a better than official exchange rate, as noted in the Extras Expenses & Spending Money section below.
Extra Expenses & Spending Money
Credit cards: We recommend using credit cards for most trip purchases. Visa/Mastercard are the most widely accepted cards and most convenient option to use along the entire trip.
- In Chile, using credit cards will get you the official bank exchange rate.
- In Argentina, using credit cards will get you the special Tourist exchange rate, which is higher than the official bank exchange rate, and slightly less than the non-official Blue exchange rate used for US dollars. Please note, this special Tourist credit card rate is subject to change at any time at the discretion of the credit card companies.
Cash: It is always good to have some local currency for buying drinks, snacks, and incidentals at smaller shops and markets. We recommend you bring most of your spending money to exchange in US dollars cash since other currencies, including British pounds and euros, are more difficult to exchange and the rates are not as good. Larger notes of US$50 and US$100 are more widely accepted than smaller denominations. Your tour leader will provide more information on exchanging currency as you go along but do note that exchange facilities/hours can be limited, particularly at the times you arrive or depart. Please ensure you do not have any torn or damaged bank notes to exchange, as these are often not accepted.
In Argentina, large denomination US dollars can be exchanged at the Blue rate, which is considerably higher than the official bank exchange rate – new, clean US$100 notes are preferred. The Blue rate is subject to change at any time at the discretion of the Argentine government. Your tour leader provides recommendations and assists group members in getting the best exchange rate in a safe way.
Average meal prices in Argentina equate to about US$15-US$25 and in Chile slightly more in general US$25-US$35. The price of a beer in both countries is approximately US$3-US$4.
Optional excursions (approximate costs as prices vary due to Argentine currency fluctuation and group sizes)
You need to pay for most of these excursions in cash; prices are correct at the time of writing but are only approximate. Optional excursions are also subject to availability. Please speak to your tour leader at the welcome briefing to check on availability and help you book activities.
Buenos Aires
- Buenos Aires tango show and dinner: From US$60 (with shared transfers)
El Calafate
- Full-day mini trekking (includes shared transfers): US$215 plus US$30 national park fee. Excludes lunch. Age limit: 10-65. Duration: nine hours.
- Full-day Big Ice Trek (includes shared transfers): US$385 plus US$30 national park fee. Excludes lunch. Age limit: 18 to 50. Duration 12 hours.
- Full-day glaciers (Upsala and Moreno with lunch): US$210 plus US$30. Available Monday/Wednesday/Friday/Sunday from 7.15am to 7.45pm.
- Half-day Estancia Nibepo Aike with lunch or dinner: US$110 plus US$25 for a short horse-ride around the estancia.
- Full-day Estancia Nibepo Aike with three horse rides and lunch: US$210. Departs daily at 8.30am but needs two people minimum.
Tierra del Fuego
- Beagle Channel boat trip (three hours): US$70
- Beagle Channel boat trip to see penguins (six hours): US$100
Tipping
Shortly after arrival, the leader will suggest to the group they donate approximately US$50-US$70 towards a kitty. This money is used to tip local guides, hotel porters etc and will be distributed by the leader. The amount will vary depending on the group size but the tour leader will keep a receipt with details about where the kitty has been spent.
To show your appreciation for local staff that accompany the trip, you may want to tip when good service has been delivered. Tipping is entirely at your discretion, but it has become customary in this part of the world. We suggest around US$5 per day for the tour leader and US$3-US$4 per day for the driver.
People, Places & Planet
We work hard to create trips that have a positive impact on the people and places we visit and look after the planet we explore. Learn more about our sustainable travel ethos and practice here and find out about the work of the Exodus Travels Foundation here.
Some sustainable travel highlights of this trip include:
People
How this trip helps improve life for local communities.
- Local guides keep you well informed about local traditions and cultural-social sensitivities.
- This trip brings income and opportunity to the destination community through the inclusion of locally owned hotels, restaurants, and other enterprises, and by championing locally produced food wherever possible. We stay at a family owned Hosteria in Chalten – Hosteria Don Atilio. Our hosts are happy to share their culture.
- Driving from Natale to Ushuaia we always stop for lunch at Morro Chico a small family owned restaurant. On the same journey to Ushuaia we always make a stop at Panaderia La Union in Tolhuin, a historic family owned bakery.
- Read more about our other initiatives here.
Places
How this trip helps protect and conserve local landscapes and nature.
- By travelling in a small group we ‘tread lightly’ to minimise our impact on local resources and the environment.
- We work with our partners on the ground to proactively reduce waste; this includes eliminating all single-use plastic water bottles by providing refills for re–usable bottles.
- The payment of entrance fees to natural reserves and archaeological sites generates income which is used for upkeep and development of these important sites.
- We visit national parks on this trip: Los Glaciares in Calafate, Park Torres del Paine in Chile, and Park Tierra del Fuego in Ushuaia. Fees collected fund conservation initiatives.
- There is the option for guests to visit a penguin reserve in Ushuaia in the protected area of Isla Martillo. Fees paid go towards funding conservation initiatives.
- Our trips adhere to ABTA’s industry-leading animal welfare guidelines to ensure the best possible practices regarding working animals and wildlife viewing. Our animal welfare policy can be found here.
- We rewild 100 square metres per passenger to compensate for all trip and flight emissions.
- Read about our commitment to nature protection and restoration here, including our rewilding commitment for every customer who travels with us.
Planet
How we seek to keep the carbon footprint of this trip low.
- Accommodation and restaurants in the itinerary use locally sourced food which has not been transported long distances.
- Read about our climate action here, including our carbon reduction and compensation commitments.
Tips for sustainable travel on this trip
- Leave no trace: we do all we can to ensure we leave no rubbish in the wild and beautiful places we visit; we ask that you do the same. If there are no recycling facilities in-country, consider bringing recyclable materials home with you.
- Plastic waste reduction: please bring a re–usable water bottle on this trip, also consider avoiding single-use hotel toiletries, which generate a large amount of plastic waste.
Important Information
Water safety
This trip includes time by a lake, river or sea, where there may be opportunities to swim. You should always seek local advice before deciding whether to swim. Open-water or wild swim spots should be treated with extreme caution. Information on how to keep yourself safe while swimming is shown here.
In line with our ‘book and travel with confidence’ promise which allows you to cancel free of charge up to 42 days prior to departure, or transfer to another trip free of charge up to 21 days prior to your trip starting in country, please be aware that this excludes ‘irrecoverable costs’. Details can be found here: https://www.exodus.co.uk/about-exodus/exodus-booking-conditions
For this trip the irrecoverable costs related to in-country operations are outlined below, if booking flight inclusive your sales agent will confirm the terms related to your international flights at the time of booking.
Accommodation – £162 / US$200 / AU$280 / €174
Costs are accurate at time of writing in September 2021
Important Information
Your safe participation
When booking this trip, you should be confident in your ability to participate in all activities described in these Trip Notes. If you have any doubt about your suitability, please call the Exodus office and ask to speak to one of the experts on this itinerary.
Although our leaders are well trained to deal with different capabilities, if they have any concerns about someone’s ability to safely take part in an activity, or their impact on other people’s enjoyment, we authorise them to take necessary action which, in some circumstances, may involve asking someone to miss that activity.
By booking this trip you agree to our Booking Conditions which clearly state that our leaders have the authority to do this. In these rare instances we will ensure anyone sitting out is safely provided for and offered alternative options where possible. Refunds will not be provided for activities missed and customers may be liable for additional costs incurred.
How to Book
- Check availability: Go online to check availability, or contact us by phone or email.
- Secure your place: You can provisionally hold a place on this trip, usually for between three and seven days.
- Complete your booking and payment
When you’re ready to book, go to our website for online bookings, book over the phone or you can complete a booking form (available online or on request by calling us). We accept all major credit and debit cards, or you can pay be cheque.
After booking
You will receive your booking confirmation letter and invoice, which includes extra information and guidance about your travel arrangements.
Full joining instructions, including local emergency numbers and details of how to reach the start point, will be sent to you approximately two to three weeks prior to departure. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier, please contact our office or your travel agent.
Trip Note validity
These Trip Notes are valid from the “Current as” date on page one. They will occasionally be updated after booking and before departure; if there are any updates that significantly impact the inclusions or itinerary, customers will be written to separately. They will also receive a link to the most up-to-date Trip Notes with their Final Joining Instructions before travelling.
The information in these Trip Notes is given in good faith. Where differences exist between the Trip Notes and our current brochure or website, the Trip Notes supersede the brochure and website. All holidays can be subject to unexpected changes; to enjoy them you should be prepared to be flexible where necessary. Occasionally, it may not be possible to follow the itinerary as planned. This may be for a variety of reasons – climatic, political, physical or other. In these circumstances we will make the best-possible alternative arrangements that maintain the integrity of the original itinerary.
Licensing
Exodus is fully licensed and bonded as a tour operator. We hold Air Traffic Organisers Licence (ATOL) number 2582, issued and bonded with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). We are also bonded to the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and we are members of the Federation of Tour Operators (FTO) and ABTA – The Travel Association. This means you can book your Exodus holiday with confidence, as all money paid to us for your trip is fully protected.