Journey to the end of the world, where Antarctica and Andes practically collide: this is your chance to experience a completely different world. Sail to hidden beaches lapped by turquoise seas, discover the pulsating cities of Rio and Buenos Aires: the sights, nightlife, and café society.

Journey south to the mesmerising Pampas and windswept Patagonia. Spot whales rounding the tip of the Valdez Peninsula, scarlet sunsets in Ushuaia and the turquoise-blue Moreno glaciar, before heading north along the spine of the Andes to the colonial capital, Santiago.

Please note that the 09 Dec 09 and 23 Dec 09 include a 4 day Navimag cruise and exclude Bariloche (ferry schedule permitting). A Local Payment supplement (guide price USD320) will apply. Please note that the initial Patagonia itinerary may be subject to modification depending on the ferry schedule.

El Chalten – El Calafate.  We finish our journey through this area in the spectacular Argentinean lake district and start the long drive south to El Chalten. We spend a night in the lovely Los Alerces National Park, which has many beautiful lakes and mountain views. The area to the north of here is also famed as once being the home of Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. They spent time here in the early 20th century attempting to avoid the detectives looking for them from the United States.

As we follow the long road south, we are treated to many beautiful views of the Andes, and opportunities to see condors, flamingos and the odd armadillo scuttling across the road. El Chalten is a small town dwarfed by the magnificent, surrounding mountains, and now considered to be the trekking capital of Argentina. This is the northernmost section of the Parque Nacional Los Glaciares, and there are countless hiking opportunities branching out in every direction from this little haven. One of the most popular is the trek to the base of Mount Fitzroy. The views of this mountain are breathtaking as its jagged peak punctures the Patagonian sky. There are also many options for horse riding in the surrounding area. Another fantastic day out here is an optional hike on a glacier and ice climbing. After the initial hike to Laguna Torre, which has a glacier running into it, you will then hike onto the glacier after being issued with crampons. You spend a couple of hours hiking around the glacier past many crevasses and ice formations, and all against the spectacular backdrop of Cerro Torre. And to conclude the time on the glacier you receive some instruction on ice climbing and you are then able to have a go for yourself.

Leaving El Chalten, we continue south to the next destination of El Calafate. As we approach El Calafate, we drive along Lake Viedma, a spectacular lake with a backdrop of snow-capped peaks and the Glacier Viedma.

Ushuaia – Valdes Peninsula – Buenos Aires.  We proceed south again, and cross the Straits of Magellan towards the Southernmost town in the world, Ushuaia.

Driving towards the Argentinean border, we enter the region of Tierra del Fuego (Land of Fire), where the scenery changes once again into rugged mountain wilderness. Situated in this beautiful setting is the lovely town of Ushuaia. It is perfectly located overlooking the Beagle Channel and with a backdrop of snow-capped peaks behind. From Ushuaia it is possible to take an optional boat excursion onto the Beagle Channel. The boat trip offers the opportunity of not only spectacular views of Ushuaia and surrounding area, but also to see the local wildlife such as sea lions, albatross and many other species of sea birds. You can also make an optional visit to the nearby Tierra del Fuego National Park where the Pan-American highway ends. Here you will find some wonderful hiking trails through the beautiful beech forests.

From Ushuaia we have a long journey north across the open plains of Southern Patagonia. This journey will take 2 to 3 long days driving, requiring a lot of patience until we reach our next destination of Puerto Madryn, gateway to the Valdes Peninsula.

Reaching the Valdez Peninsula we spend a day visiting various sites renowned for sea lions, sea elephants and a variety of bird life. At certain times of the year (July to December) it is also possible to see Southern Right Whales, which gather in great numbers for the breeding season in the waters around the peninsula.

Heading north from Puerto Madryn, we have a long journey across the rolling grasslands of the Pampa region. When we cross the Colorado River, this is considered to be the point at which the Patagonia region ends. This is cattle-rearing country and the origin of some of Argentina’s best beef.

Buenos Aires is a lively, cosmopolitan city with many attractions. From the charming main plaza with government palace, to the many shopping streets and cafes, there is always something to keep you occupied in Buenos Aires. You may wish to see a Tango show in the city where the dance originated or visit the cemetery where Eva Peron is buried.

Iguazu Falls – Bonito – Pantanal.  The town of Foz do Iguazu is our base for exploring the spectacular Iguazu Falls. We spend two full days here taking in the fantastic views from both the Brazilian and Argentinean side of the falls. These are some of the most spectacular waterfalls in the world, with 275 separate falls over a frontage of 2.7 kilometres.

Our day trip to the Brazilian side of the Falls will begin with an optional trip to a bird park which houses a fantastic array of not just native birds like Toucans and Macaws, but also other birds from around the world. From here we continue on for our initial breathtaking views of the falls. There are many trails and walkways to explore, revealing more great views. Helicopter rides over the falls are possible in order to shoot the most spectacular photos of all.

For our day on the Argentinean side, we are treated to more fantastic views. One of which is the breathtaking Garganta del Diablo, or Devils Throat, where much of the river converges into one section to create an amazing sight. A walkway takes you right out to the edge of this area and you will hear the thundering noise and feel the spray well before you reach the edge. There are many other walkways to explore on the Argentinean side as well, where you can easily occupy your day. Another option on the Argentinean side is to take a boat trip right up close to some of the falls where you can really get an idea of the power and volume of the water.

From Iguazu we continue north to the town of Bonito. Here we spend two full days with many optional activities available. The most popular of these is a trip to what the locals refer to as one of the clearest rivers in the world. The river, fed by natural springs, is kept incredibly clear because of the limestone at the bottom of the river. Here you will have the opportunity to drift down this crystal clear river with a wetsuit, snorkel and mask and gaze at the abundance of different species of fish living there. It is a truly amazing and unique opportunity. Other trips available from Bonito include a trip to the Blue Cave with its amazing colour and formations. There is the possibility to abseil down into other caves and then scuba dive or snorkel through them.

We then proceed towards the Pantanal Wetlands where we spend 2 fantastic days exploring this region. The Pantanal Wetlands is an area of 230,000 square kms and houses an abundance of wildlife. Our base camp is rustic: we sleep in hammocks in multi share accommodation, with cold water showers. Even in Brazil, it can be cold at night, so you are strongly advised to bring a sleeping bag. We will make various trips into the region, including hikes, horse riding, jeep safaris, and piranha fishing. The wildlife you can see includes caimans, anacondas, giant anteaters and various species of monkeys as well as many different species of birds including macaws and toucans.

From the Pantanal region, we proceed east towards the coast and the beach. This is a long 2-day journey across Brazil, but the beautiful coastline is worth the wait.

Florida Hotel
Rua Ferreira Viana 81
Flamengo
Rio de Janeiro

Tel: ++55-21-2555-6000

Please be aware that arrival times and the itinerary may change due to unforeseen delays or events such as festivals and public holidays. However, we shall endeavour to ensure all sites are visited and that your tour runs as smoothly as possible but please note that Latin America does not run like clockwork, therefore do not expect the streamlined travel arrangements associated with some other continents. Things do not always go to plan; there will be times when you will need to be patient and philosophical about your travels. Conditions in South America can change rapidly and changes to the itinerary may be necessary.

Be flexible, you will enjoy your tour much more. We make a point of visiting the indigenous populations of each country you visit, in order to give a true reflection of the country; please treat the local people and their customs with respect.

Lastly, your tour leader is always conscious of everybody's views, but sometimes he/she will have to make an unpopular decision and your understanding will be appreciated in these circumstances.

Travel insurance is compulsory for all tours. All clients MUST be insured to cover personal accident, medical expenses, cancellation, curtailment, repatriation, etc. Also, be aware that many activities such as trekking, bungy jumping or white water rafting may not be covered on your insurance policy. If you plan on doing any of these activities please purchase additional insurance. We recommend that you have a photocopy of this document, which you keep separate from the original. If you have not already arranged your own travel insurance then please visit our Travel Insurance page for more information.

Please Note: You will not be permitted to join a Tour without travel insurance.

It is important that you obtain the appropriate visas before you embark on your South America trip. Please consult your Travel Agent or relevant embassy for all details such as opening hours or costs.

EACH CLIENT IS SOLELY RESPONSIBLE FOR OBTAINING ALL NECESSARY VISAS BEFORE JOINING A TOUR.

Please note that clients travelling on SA6 Buenos Aires to Rio tours should be aware that Brazilian visas (if required) can take up to 3-4 working days to issue.  We strongly advise that you arrive into Buenos Aires at least 4 working days before your trip starts in order to ensure that you have sufficient time to obtain your Brazilian visa.

We for changes in regulations or requirements for visas. The information provided is given in good faith.

Prophylactic tablets are essential in some areas of South America. They are prescribed by your vaccinating doctor and should be taken as directed.

• We recommend that you do not take unnecessary valuables with you. Wearing jewellery and expensive watches will attract attention.
• A money belt, or something similar, worn close to your body is the best way to carry passports, airline tickets and money.
• DO NOT leave any valuables in ANY hotel room, please use SAFETY DEPOSIT BOXES. Items are left at your own risk.
• Pickpockets operate everywhere, particularly in tourist areas and in crowded markets; you must always exercise care. Be aware that anything left lying around will also be liable to theft.
• Overland vehicles carry a safe on board.  We recommend using it to store your valuables.  They also have secure doors and windows but it is never foolish to be cautious.

We suggest passengers budget for between US$25-30 per day for personal expenses, souvenirs, evening out, alcoholic drinks etc. Be aware that some countries are more expensive than others and that if you are travelling through several your expenses will vary enormously. Similarly there will be some days when you spend nothing at all and others when you exceed your budget.

Take your money in US dollars only. This is the only foreign currency readily exchanged in Latin America.

Traveller’s cheques should be AMERICAN EXPRESS. American Express is the most widely accepted.

Cash is far easier to exchange than Travellers Cheques, but also more risky as once lost, is irreplaceable. However, we do recommend that you take some US dollars cash in small denominations ($10 and $20).

In many countries (except Brazil), you may exchange US Dollars traveller’s cheques for US cash, or retrieve US dollars cash from ATMs (with a credit card), usually for a small commission but please do not rely solely on this option.

Credit cards are accepted frequently, particularly in the larger cities. They can also be used to get money from ATMs.

Visa, MasterCard and American Express are the most widely accepted credit cards. Visa being the most useful.

How much should I take?

• The best rule for packing is to limit your self to a weight limit of 20 KGs. It will inconvenience you and your fellow passengers if you bring more. If your luggage does not arrive at the airport, please inform your crew at the Pre Departure Meeting.
• A frameless or internally framed backpack is the best way to carry your belongings since it is easy to lift on and off vehicles. Please note that we do not recommend that passengers bring suitcases.
• A small daypack is practical for keeping general items (e.g. camera, books, wallets etc.) at hand when your main pack is out of reach. It is also handy for day trips and excursions. This can also be used for carrying 2 days of clothing so it is not always necessary to unload the large backpacks every night.
• Sleeping Bag - a good quality sleeping bag, rated for sub-zero conditions is the best for tours, which travel through the Andes and Patagonia. You can purchase extra blankets in South America cheaply. We recommend a Four Seasons sleeping bag.
• Inner Sheet - for your sleeping bag. Can also be used as a sleeping bag when it's hot.
• Sleeping Mat - A self-inflating mat. "Thermarest" is best, although a compressed foam mat is adequate.
• Mosquito Net -if you wish to sleep outdoors. All tents have built in mosquito nets.
• We also recommend that you keep your passport, credit cards travellers cheques etc. on you at all times, preferably in a money belt worn under your clothes.

TRAVEL TIP: You might be tempted to buy a few souvenirs here and there, so leave a little room for those extra purchases!!

Most passengers will travel with digital cameras. Should you run out of memory you can download your photos onto CD at the local internet cafes or camera shops on your tour. Alternatively, you may be able to purchase extra memory cards.

With regards to film, all types of camera film are readily available in South America. However, it is often cheaper to purchase it in your country of origin or through duty free.

Please remember, we are guests in the countries through which we travel and we may sometimes inadvertently cause offence by taking photographs without first asking permission. Most Latin American countries have very strict rules about taking photos of army, police or any official personnel; restrictions apply at borders, bridges and any government building. Please exercise care in this regard as the penalty may be to have your camera confiscated. It is absolutely forbidden by law to take photos at any borders, as they are all active military installations.

We have put a lot of thought and effort into locating the most appropriate type of accommodation for each tour. Overland tours will spend most time in campsites and some time in hotels as it is much more appropriate to the overland style of travel.

CAMPING - Camping is always great fun and our vehicles are loaded with all the first class equipment needed. Campsites vary from established sites with all facilities to the occasional roadside stop or free camp. We use large two person tents, and if you are traveling alone we’ll team you up with another group member of the same gender.

HOTELS - We choose our hotels, guesthouses and hostels for their location, comfort, security and hygiene standards. All are located near the city centre usually within easy walking distance of services and facilities. Most rooms are on a twin, double or triple share basis with private bathrooms, although there may be the occasional multi share dormitory room.

Accommodation is not included in the city of departure or arrival (unless within the specified tour dates). Passengers doing a combination tour will have accommodation included when passing through a joining city (maximum 2 nights) providing they have booked on the combination tour code. You should allow US$25 to US$30 per day to cover food and accommodation during this time.

The more you put into your tour the greater the experience you will get from your trip. It is all about participation and mucking in with your fellow passengers!

Participation is a key factor on a tour of this nature and everyone is expected to pull their weight and get involved with the daily duties (e.g. cooking, cleaning and food shopping). The most successful trips are those where people become involved.

This is not only the best way to get to know your fellow passengers; while cooking dinner or flapping dry the dishes, but also the local people while you are putting your bartering skills to the test at the local markets!

Please note: The longer journeys are combinations of shorter tours. Lima, La Paz and Buenos Aires are also pickup and drop off points for passengers so new faces and personalities will join the tour.

Whilst on tour you will probably want to stay in touch with family and friends. There are several ways of doing this:

Mobile Phone – Before departing your home country check with your phone supplier to see if it compatible with the mobile phone networks in the countries that you are traveling to, and how much will it cost to use abroad. You can opt to use an International SIM Card.

Email – Internet Cafes are very cheap and popular, and you are sure to come across several during your tour. If you haven’t done so already, set up a free Google Mail, Hotmail, or Yahoo email account which you can then access from any computer. Internet Cafes will charge a nominal fee for using their computers.

Blog – You can keep your friends and family updated by blogging about your adventures.

Postcards – The good ol’ fashioned postcard. But you will probably get home before the postcard does!

Tour Questionnaire - We would like to hear about your experiences on tour. Seven days after your tour ends you will automatically receive a feedback questionnaire via email. If we do not have your email address you can still write a review on the tour page you've done on our site.

Email - If you have any specific comments about your tour then please write to us by email at tours [at] travel-amazing-southamerica.com

Under no circumstances are any illegal drugs allowed on any part of the trip. Anyone discovered in possession of any such drugs, will be asked to leave the tour immediately without question or refund.