treasures of patagonia and the atlantic coast

TREASURES OF PATAGONIA AND THE
ATLANTIC COAST
Argentina Family Adventure
Itinerary Overview
Explore Argentina’s enchanting and vibrant capitol, visit one of planet’s most imposing glaciers while in
Patagonia, and bask in the austral sun on Uruguay’s Atlantic coast on this exhilarating family adventure!
From the calving glaciers of Los Glacieres National Park in southern Patagonia to the sun-soaked beaches
of Uruguay, local expert guides lead us on family-based bike and horseback rides, boating navigations
and glacier treks. With three nights in each destination, families will have enough time to explore and
become acquainted with each of these incredible destinations while still fidning time to relax. Family
members can choose excursions appropriate to their skill and activity levels and reconvene again for
family meals and shared, more moderate, experiences. This 10-day itinerary is designed to fit well within
kids’ school vacation periods and can easily be modified to incorporate popular extensions to Iguazu
Falls, the northwest and Bariloche as well.
DAY
DATE
OVERNIGHT
1
BUENOS
AIRES
2
BUENOS
AIRES
3
BUENOS
AIRES
4
EL CALAFATE
5
EL CALAFATE
6
EL CALAFATE
7
HOTELS
Casa Sur Bellini
(with connecting
rooms)
Casa Sur Bellini
(with connecting
rooms)
Casa Sur Bellini
(with connecting
rooms)
Hosteria Alta
Vista
MEALS
HIGHLIGHTS
Arrival into Buenos Aires. Transfer in.
Neighborhood afternoon walking tour and
treasure hunt.
BL
B
Buenos Aires City Tour and afternoon activity
option.
Tigre and Parana River Delta
BLD
Fly to El Calafate and glacier museum
Hosteria Alta
Vista
BLD
Perito Moreno Glacier with Mini-trekking or
Nautical Safari. Traditional asado dinner.
Hosteria Alta
Vista
BLD
Activities at Alta Vista, asado al disco lunch
and farewell dinner
PUNTA DEL
ESTE
Mantra
BD
Fly to Montevideo, Uruguay and transfer to
Punta del Este. Special welcome dinner.
8
PUNTA DEL
ESTE
Mantra
BLD
Horseback riding and biking around Punta
del Este. Family dinner at Fasano Restaurant.
9
PUNTA DEL
ESTE
Mantra
BLD
Nature reserve bike ride and boat trip. Farwell
dinner at La Huella.
10
DEPART
B
Fly to Buenos Aires and connect with
international flight home
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Itinerary in Detail
DAY 1: BUENOS AIRES NEIGHBORHOOD
EXPLORATION AND TREASURE HUNT
Arrival transfer from the International airport to our
hotel. After resting and getting settled we set off on a
two hour walking tour to explore the surrounding
neighborhood with a treasure hunt. While taking a
leisurely walk, the kids – and adults alike – are invited
to find clues that identify the neighborhood and lead to
a treasure.
Upon finishing, enjoy a delicious ice cream in one of
the emblematic ice cream parlors in the area or a fun
cup of hot chocolate. Overnight at the CasaSur
Bellini Hotel (with connecting rooms for
families).
DAY 2: BUENOS AIRES FOUR BALCONIES
Join an exceptional local Porteño guide who uses parks, plazas and neighborhoods to introduce visitors
to the city, its history, its style, and the peculiar psychology of “Porteño” residents. You visit historical
sites such as the Barrio Norte with its splendid old homes; La Boca, a neighborhood of brightly painted
Italian family homes and restaurants; the Avenida 9 de Julio with its towering obelisk as much a symbol
to Buenos Aires as the Eiffel Tower is to Paris, and San Telmo where the artist and musicians live and
work.
In the afternoon choose from one of the following three activities:
Active option: Explore the Palermo neighborhood. While walking in this beautiful area, the kids are
invited to find clues and photograph them while walking and learning about the area.
For Adults and Teens: Enjoy an intriguing art tour including
the Malba Museum, the Latin American Contemporary Art
Museum which exhibits one of, what is thought to be, the most
important private contemporary art collections in the South
America. Leaving the museum, we visit Palermo and its
contemporary design scene.
Family activity: starting at 4:00PM we take part in a cooking
class and learn to make the alluring and delicious Argentine
empanadas. This is a hands-on experience for the whole family.
Enjoy the class and then share dinner together.
Overnight at CasaSur Bellini Hotel (with connecting
rooms for families). [BL]
DAY 3: TIGRE AND PARANA RIVER DELTA
Today we set off to explore the Parana River Delta. This vast
region is among the world's largest deltas in the world. The
Parana River, a biological corridor descending from the Amazon,
flows into the Rio de la Plata creating countless marshy islands
covered by thickets and grasslands. Tigre received its name from
the jaguar (locally known as tigre) that inhabited the area before
agricultural development began in the mid 1800s. This is one of
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the few deltas in the world in such proximity to a large
city. This key location makes Tigre a favorite escape
from the city’s hustle and bustle for both visitors and
residents alike.
For the active travelers, today we will drive to the train
station where we will jump on the public train and dive
into the everyday life Buenos Aires locals until we reach
the northern edge of the city. We will disembark in La
Lucila and set off on bikes. We peddle along a coastal
road that runs parallel to the river until reaching San
Isidro (biking time about 1.5 hours). Here we will pay a
short visit to the quaint village and then continue via
train to Tigre.
For those who prefer sightseeing, we will take a boat that leaves Buenos Aires and navigates towards
Tigre (approx 2 hour navigation). Families will meet in Tigre and enjoy a light lunch (payable direct).
Enjoy the afternoon on the water in handmade wooden canoes. After paddling, we have the chance to
meet the artist who creates these beautiful canoes and share time at his workshop.
After our exciting adventure to the Parana River Delta, we return to Buenos Aires and call it a day!
Overnight at CasaSur Bellini Hotel (with connecting rooms for families). [B]
DAY 4: EL CALAFATE – GLACIER MUSEUM
Transfer to the airport for our flight to El Calafate. El Calafate is the base for explorations of the
Patagonian Continental Ice Cap and Los Glaciares National Park. The ice cap runs 560 miles from North
to South between the 48 and 51 parallels. It is the origin of 47 major glaciers, including the famous Perito
Moreno Glacier, which we get up-close and personal with tomorrow! Upon arrival, we will continue on to
the newly-opened Glaciarium Museum to gain an understanding of the geology of the region and brush
up on your glaciology. The information about Argentina’s major glaciers and the exhibits on Perito
Moreno and global warming are particularly interesting. We will have a quick bite and then work our
way up to our Patagonian home for the next three nights- Hosteria Alta Vista. The family run hosteria is
located within the boundaries of the legendary Estancia Anita, 40 km (25 miles) from El Calafate,
accessible only by gravel road. The amazing landscape surrounding the estancia contains all the different
ecosystems that typify Patagonia: The Andean range, immense Patagonian steppe, glacial lakes, forests
and majestic glaciers.
Before tea time, we have the chance to do a quick tour
of the hosteria and its grounds. The estancia, so
rooted in the history of the area, is the perfect
example of a traditional Patagonian ranch.
Time permitting, we can observe the nesting site of
the buff-necked Ibis (Theristicus caudatus): Only 50
m from the hosteria, the buff-necked ibis nests in the
elegant cypress trees. These migratory birds nest
between October and April. Overnight at Hosteria
Alta Vista. [BLD]
DAY 5: PERITO MORENO GLACIER WALK
Drive to a spectacular lookout of Perito Moreno
Glacier in Los Glaciares National Park. Permanently
advancing along its 3-mile-front, columns of ice over
20 stories high peel off the face and crash into Lago
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Argentino creating massive icebergs. We cross Lago Argentino along the front wall of the glacier to the
edge of the Patagonian Ice Cap. Watch and listen as the glacier calves enormous shards of ice into the
lake. Disembark, and after a safety briefing, strap on crampons for n easy two hour walk over the uneven
glacial landscape of streams, lagoons, gullies, crevasses and deep blue ice formations! Watch for Andean
condor and Buff-necked Ibis. Free time to explore the catwalks before returning to the hosteria.
Overnight at Hosteria Alta Vista. [BLD]
Note: The “Moreno Glacier Walk” is a group excursion of up to 20 persons conducted by a local park
concession for ages 10-65. Ask about our “Big Ice Exploration,” an alternative, longer, 6-hour hike with
a smaller group that ventures deeper into the depths of the glacier for ages 18-50. An alternative, for
younger children is to do a Nautical Safari boat ride along the face of the glacier and then explore the
catwalks.
DAY 6: ACTIVITIES AT ALTA VISTA
Today family members can choose
between a more active horseback ride or
an ATV ride to a beautiful lookout point.
The most popular horseback ride, over
easy and relatively flat terrain, leads to
an amazing lagoon with andean
flamingoes, swans, and geese. It then
continues on to the Chorrillo Malo vista
point that overlooks the Lake Argentino
basin, the Andean range, glaciers and the
impressive steppe beyond.
Those not wishing to ride can enjoy a fun
ATV drive to reach the lookout and meet the rest of the family. At Chorrillo Malo, with the gorgeous view
as our backdrop, we learn how to prepare asado al disco, the way gauchos prepare lunch while working
in the field. Delicious meat sandwiches will be enjoyed by all.
In the afternoon, return to the estancia and visit the grounds of Estancia La Anita. A completely selfsustaining ranch, the Estancia will amaze. This educational visit for all participants is a wonderful
introduction to Argentine history and the roots of its economy. This visit will involve a game for the kids,
so they can learn in an exciting and creative way.
This evening we will have a farewell dinner and say good-bye to our Patagonian home. Overnight at
Hosteria Alta Vista. [BLD]
DAY 7: EL CALAFATE – PUNTA DEL ESTE,
URUGUAY
Transfer from the hosteria to the El Calafate airport
where we catch our flight to Buenos Aires and
connect with our flight to Montevideo, Uruguay.
Arrival and transfer to Hotel Mantra in La Barra, a
secluded beach town near Punta del Este.
Enjoy a welcome dinner at El Franchute restaurant
located in a private home where we have the chance
to experience dinner in an intimate atmosphere with
local cuisine. Overnight at Hotel Mantra. [BD]
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DAY 8: HORSEBACK RIDING AND BIKING
OUTSIDE PUNTA DEL ESTE
Morning drive to Colinas de Garzon Extra Virgin Olive
Oil Plant where together we enjoy an interactive visit:
First a short introductory movie followed by a visit to
the production plant. We visit the plantations on bike
or in a carriage led by tractors. The visit will end with
a tasting of the different olive oils, wines and local
cheeses.
This afternoon, for the active family members, enjoy
horseback riding in “Uruguyan Tuscany”. Meet the
horses and ride to the picturesque village of Garzon.
Depending on the group’s energy levels, we continue on through the fields and take in the amazing views.
For those looking for a more relaxed afternoon, we will be transferred back to the hotel where the kids
can enjoy activities at the kids club and adults can take advantage of the spa facilities.
Family dinner at Fasano Restaurant on top of a hill with a splendid view over the countryside lands of
Punta del Este. Overnight at Hotel Mantra. [BD]
DAY 9: NATURE RESERVE, BIKE RIDE AND
BOAT TRIP
Morning drive to Solis to visit the “Area Indigena”
protected wetlands. Upon arrival, we set off on a
guided 1.5 hour walk and search for capybaras,
river otters and numerous bird species that call this
sanctuary home. Then enjoy a family lunch at the
Punta del Este Pier.
This afternoon take off on an exciting bike ride
around Punta del Este to discover the peninsula,
where the Rio de la Plata and the Atlantic Ocean
collide. Ride past the historic lighthouse and
finally ride 10 miles to Casapueblo, to enjoy one of
the most beautiful sunsets in Uruguay.
For those not wishing to ride, enjoy a city tour of Punta del Este complemented with a boat trip to Isla de
los Lobos. Located close to Punta del Este, this island is home to a large population of talkative sea lions.
Meet the riders in the family at Casapueblo and enjoy a glass of wine while taking in the spectacular
sunset. Return to the hotel and dress for a farewell dinner at Punta del Este's most famous restaurant –
La Huella. Overnight at Mantra Hotel. [BLD]
DAY 10: DEPARTURE
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and then depart for Montevideo where we catch our flight back to Buenos
Aires and connect with our international flight home. [B]
END OF SERVICES
Actual routes and activities may vary. Local trip coordinators reserve the right to change
accommodations to similar quality alternatives.
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PRICING AND DATES:
Tour can be run anytime between October and Early April. Please request for pricing.
INCLUDED SERVICES
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9 night hotel and accommodation as indicated
English-speaking naturalist guides
Entrance fees for National Parks & museums as noted
Guided tours and excursions
Airport-hotel transfers and land transportation
Meals as specified [B-Breakfast, L-Lunch, D-Dinner]
Wildland Adventures’ travel consultation and pre-departure services.
NOT INCLUDED SERVICES
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International and internal air transportation
Airport taxes ($160 reciprocity fee prior to arriving Argentina, $18 El Calafate) Airport taxes can
be paid in Argentine Pesos or USD cash, or by debit card.
Tips and gratuities
Drinks, alcoholic beverages, and meals other than listed above
Personal expenses for extra services, optional activities, or changes in your itinerary for reasons
beyond our control
Travel insurance for trip cancellation, medical services, or evacuation
Any other items not mentioned above
-more below-
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Accommodations
CASASUR BELLINI, PALERMO
This elegant and contemporary hotel is perfect for families.
Located in the vibrant and colorful neighborhood of Palermo,
Casasur Bellini has connecting rooms for families wanting to be
close together, a great pool for the kids and spa for mom and
dad. Just steps away from numerous parks, shops, restaurants
and cafes this is wonderful family accommodation in the city.
HOSTERIA ALTA VISTA, EL CALAFATE
Located between Los Glaciares National Park and El Calafate,
the Hosteria Alta Vista is part of the Estancia Anita, the largest
sheep farm in the area (165,000 acres). This large area allows
for moments of vastness and solitude as the landscape sweeps
out before you. The nine inviting rooms each have clean lines,
with original wrought iron and Antique Wood furnishings. Our
local hosts, descendents of Patagonian pioneers, welcome you
into their home with sincere warmth and delicious local
cuisine. The ranch is yours to explore; hike through the hill to
search for condors, watch the gauchos round up sheep for
sheering, or saddle up for a trail ride to a breathtaking look out
to Perito Moreno Glacier. After a long day exploring enjoy a
soak in your own bathtub followed by a dinner in the intimate
dining area.
MANTRA HOTEL, PUNTA DEL ESTE, URUGUAY
Located near Punta del Este, on the Atlantic coast, Mantra
Hotel offers spacious, comfortable rooms for families looking
to explore this gorgeous region of Uruguay. After a day of
biking and horseback riding families can enjoy the Olympic
sized swimming pool, beach and more.
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Booking your Wildland Adventure
HOW TO RESERVE A TRIP
You can book online using our Reserve a Trip form or by calling 1-800-345-4453. Your space on a trip is
confirmed once we receive your reservation form and initial trip deposit. All travelers must sign and
submit a Release of Liability.
Deposit requirements are as follows:*
 $1000 per person for all trips in South America.
*Some trips require additional non-refundable deposits, especially when yachts have been chartered, or if permits
to visit archaeological or wildlife sites have been purchased in advance.
CUSTOM TRAVEL
This trip isn’t exactly what you’re looking for? We are happy to design a private custom itinerary to
accommodate your travel dates, interests and style of accommodations. Call us at 1-800-345-4453, send
an email to [email protected], or use the Ask The Program Director button on the trip itinerary page on
our website.
PAYMENTS, CANCELLATIONS AND REFUNDS
Full payment of the trip balance is due 90 days prior to departure. If you must cancel before departure,
money will be returned less the cancellation fees charged by WA Inc. plus any additional non-refundable
cancellation fees and payments already advanced to airlines, hotels and local operators:
Days Prior to Departure: Fee per person
91 or more: $300
61-90 days: Initial deposit amount
31-60 days:
50% of land cost
30 or less:
100% of land cost
PRE-DEPARTURE SERVICES
Upon receipt of your deposit and completed reservation form, we will send you a comprehensive Predeparture Dossier. This contains important information to help you prepare including immunizations,
visas, trip insurance, packing checklist, reading list, maps, cross-cultural information, optional trip
extensions and more. You will receive a final trip packet including Final Reminders and local contact
information in your destination 2-3 weeks prior to departure.
REFERENCES AND QUESTIONS
Have any questions or concerns? Call us a 1-800-345-4453 or email [email protected]. We’re here to
help and are happy to provide you with references from previous Wildland travelers.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS: Wildland Adventures, Inc. has arranged your trip utilizing the travel services of local incountry ground operators who are independent contractors. These local outfitters, lodges, hotels and other
suppliers of your travel services will make every effort to conduct this trip as described in the itinerary. It is however
possible that due to transportation schedule changes, weather, delays and unforeseeable acts of God, humans or
nature, this itinerary may vary from what is described. Participants must assume all risks whether identified in
advance or unforeseen. All optional activities are at your own risk. Extra costs due to unexpected changes in your
itinerary for reasons beyond our control are not included. We highly recommend purchasing traveler’s insurance for
trip delay, trip cancellation, baggage, accident or sickness. Representatives are available for assistance at any time
during your trip. If preferred hotels are not available, every attempt will be made to reserve alternative
accommodations of similar quality. (If upgrade is necessary, higher rates may apply.) All information and services
provided are subject to our Terms and Conditions.
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