View the detailed itinerary.

PATAGONIA
FEBRUARY 20 - MARCH 5, 2016
ABOUT YOUR ROYAL AFRICAN PARTNER
MALCOLM DESTRO
Since Malcolm’s grandfather arrived in East Africa on the 1904 McMillan expedition, the Destro name has been
inextricably linked to safaris. His father Reggie was one of the best-known guides of his generation, leading the first mobile photographic safaris
to the Maasai Mara. Malcolm learned the ropes from one of the greatest crews ever to have pitched camp and the
Destro family has now celebrated over 100 years of safaris.
After obtaining a Masters degree in Engineering from Oxford University, Malcolm returned to Africa and has been
leading safaris ever since. He is comfortable leading any type of safari from luxury mobile camping to camel safaris
and scientific expeditions. He was appointed a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society in 1990. He has led
safaris throughout the African Continent, to South America, and has travelled to many other areas of the world.
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A NOTE FROM MALCOLM
They say the sign of a great holiday is when one wishes for more time there, and why I have designed this trip for its third
year in Argentina and Chile.
Three quarters of the guests who travelled on the last two trips had previously safaried in East Africa. Reading their
testimonials assured me that this is a fantastic destination for people who understand our product, wish for a comparable
experience to their safari and who are prepared to TRAVEL. The essence of this itinerary is to focus on the truly unique
aspects of this vast region, and to immerse oneself in this pristine wilderness.
Itineraries should evolve, and based on our experiences, this trip to Argentina and Chile will focus primarily on Southern
Patagonia with two exceptional locations, Estancia Cristina in Argentina and Tierra Patagonia in Chile. In order to truly
appreciate the destinations, some hiking is necessary and you should have a fitness level to comfortably walk 4 - 6 miles over
fairly easy terrain. The variety of landscape and ever-changing light inspire photography and to enrich the visit to Torres del Paines, we will be
accompanied by a professional photographer and mountain guide, Erin Bates. Erin has worked in this area for the last 7
years and is a great inspiration to those who would like to work on their photography.
While you will be reading the itinerary in more detail, here is a succinct personal overview: Our trip will start in Buenos Aires, a city with a great deal of flavour, culture and history, and with the elegance of the Alvear
Palace Hotel, a great way to unwind from the flight. Then, onto Patagonia, the 'safari' element of the trip - travel, adventure
and quality time spent in unique locations. Finishing up in Mendoza at The Vines of Mendoza, high on the list of 'must see'
destinations in Argentina. The warmer climate is a change from the South and gives a gentle ending to the trip. Francis
Mallman is one of Argentina's top chefs and created the culinary experience at the Vines which is a wonderful experience.
The Siete Fuegos dinner on the last night will bear testament to this.
I look forward to taking you on this exceptional adventure.
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TRIP OVERVIEW
ARGENTINA
CHILE
February 27
February 20
Drive to Torres del Paine
Arrive Ezeiza Airport, Buenos Aires. Met and taken to
Tierre Patagonia (3 nights)
the Alvear Palace Hotel (2 nights)
February 28 & 29
February 21
Torres del Paine with activities
Buenos Aires with tours
Tierra Patagonia Alvear Palace Hotel
March 1
February 22
Drive to Punta Arenas
Fly to the Glaciers Region, Calafate
Visit penguin colony en route
Alto Calafate Hotel (1 night)
Cabo de Hornos Hotel (1 night)
February 23
March 2
Boat trip, Lago Argentino
Fly to Mendoza via Santiago
Los Glaciares National Park, Estancia Cristina (3 nights)
The Vines (3 nights)
February 24 & 25
March 3 & 4
Activities Mendoza with tours
Los Glaciares National Park, Estancia Cristina
The Vines
February 26
March 5
Return to Calafate
Fly to Buenos Aires
Overnight Alto Calafate Hotel
International Departure
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FEBRUARY 20
Arrive in Buenos Aires Met and taken to the Alvear Palace Hotel (2 nights)
We will meet you at Ezeiza Airport and take you to the Alvear Palace Hotel. A member of the prestigious Leading Hotels of the World, this landmark luxury hotel is located in Recoleta, the city’s most
elegant residential neighborhood with its boulevards and leafy parks. The Alvear Palace opened in 1932 as a luxury hotel for
European visitors and continues to exude Belle Époque splendor. The hotel has grand French-inspired public areas, with
crystal chandeliers, velvet fauteuils and gilded-wood-paneled walls. Guest rooms in Empire, Louis XV and Louis XVI styles,
have butler service, fresh flowers and Hermès bath amenities. High tea, served in L’Orangerie, draws an elegant crowd.
Upping the luxury quotient is the 8,600-square-foot Alvear Spa, a serene, light-filled space offering a range of wellness and
beauty treatments. The hotel has been host to Nelson Mandela, Sofia Loren, Ted Turner, Jacques Chirac and Sean Connery.
In the afternoon, we will enjoy a walking tour along Recoleta’s leafy streets, lined with unique French facades and tempting
boutiques. Highlights will include the giant Ombu trees, the ornate mausoleums and the city’s oldest church - del Pilar.
Dinner will be at Sottovoce, one of the city’s best Italian restaurants, located within walking distance of the hotel.
(Meal Plan: Dinner)
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FEBRUARY 21
Alvear Palace Hotel
After breakfast, we will depart for a full-day Buenos Aires City Highlights Tour. This tour will include such areas as San
Telmo, La Boca, and Palermo. We will have lunch in Puerto Madero and in the afternoon enjoy a 1-hour private tour of the
famous Teatro Colon Opera House, before returning to the hotel.
No visit to Buenos Aires would be complete without a Tango Show! We will spend the evening enjoying dinner and seeing
one of the city’s finest shows.
(Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
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THE GLACIERS REGION
LOS GLACIARES NATIONAL PARK
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FEBRUARY 22
Transfer to Buenos Aires domestic airport
Fly to Calafate
Alto Calafate (1 night)
We’ll have a leisurely start from the hotel mid-morning to catch the domestic flight to Calafate. The flight is just under 3 hours.
On arrival, we will be met and taken to our hotel, Alto Calafate. After checking in, there is time to wander into Calafate. The
town has the feeling of a frontier town with just one main street, an artisan community, and some colorful stores and cafes.
Located on a hillside, with views of the surrounding area, this 103-room hotel is conveniently located. The rooms overlook the
magnificent scenery, and are nicely furnished to harmonize with the atmosphere of the place. Rooms are equipped with direct
dial phones, LCD cable TV and DVD, Wi-Fi, and audio equipment. There is a spa and full equipped fitness centre on site. The spa area includes two heated pools, a sauna, and spa treatments
are available. Dinner will be at a local restaurant in town.
(Meal Plan: Breakfast, Dinner)
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FEBRUARY 23, 24, 25
Boat trip on Lago Argentino
Los Glaciares National Park
Estancia Cristina (3 nights)
After breakfast, we will depart by road (1.5 hours) to the Puerto Bandera Pier. On arrival, we will board the boat for the
Estancia and start our scenic journey on Lago Argentina. We will travel among the icebergs and see the famous Upsala
Glacier, a large valley glacier that flows from the Southern Patagonia Ice Field, before arriving at Estancia Cristina in time for
lunch.
Only accessible by boat, Estancia Cristina was founded over a century ago inside Los Glaciares National Park. It is one of
the most remote and scenic places in the region.
(Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
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Estancia Cristina was founded in 1914 by Joseph Percival Masters, an Englishman who came to Patagonia with his wife in
1900. Today, there are 20 rooms located in 5 lodges. Warm rustic elements have been chosen for decorating the rooms so
that they form an integral part of the history of the Estancia and its simple but imposing surroundings. Delicious meals are served and the menu of unique regional cuisine is the most famous along with the combination of
flavours and care in the presentation of each dish. The chef meticulously select the products used; the Patagonian lamb,
fresh vegetables and homemade breads are some of the most popular dishes. A selection of fine wines from all regions of
Argentina, from north to Patagonia, is offered.
During our stay here, a number of activities are available including a tour of the area in all-terrain vehicles, horseback riding,
hiking, and fly fishing (fly fishing must be arranged in advance and guests must bring their own equipment).
(Meal Plan: February 24 & 25 - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
FEBRUARY 26
Afternoon transfer to Calafate
Overnight Alto Patagonia
After lunch at the Estancia, we will board the boat and return to Calafate for the night at Alto Patagonia. Dinner will be at the
hotel.
(Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
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TORRES DEL PAINE
THE CENTERPIECE OF CHILEAN
PATAGONIA
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FEBRUARY 27, 28, 29
Drive to Torres Del Paine National Park, Chile
Tierra Patagonia (3 nights)
After an early breakfast, we will depart from the hotel and drive to Torres del Paine, stopping to stretch our legs en route (5
hours). We will arrive at Tierra Patagonia in time for a late lunch.
This National Park is located in the extreme southern region of Patagonian Chile, in the southern tiers of the Andes and a
UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Three towering rock towers give the park its name and “Paine” is the old indigenous name for
blue. It is considered the centerpiece of Chilean Patagonia.
Torres del Paine National Park owes its awesome beauty to its four distinct ecosystems, the flora and fauna found in the
park, and its wide variety of geological elements such as mountains, forests, pampas, glaciers, lakes, rivers and waterfalls.
Starting with the mountains and peaks, visitors are awed by the Torres del Paine towers, the Cuernos del Paine peaks and
the great expanse of the Paine Massif. There are four glaciers within the park to discover: the Grey, Pingo, Frances and
Dickson glaciers. The lakes of the Torres del Paine National Park include Sarmiento (where our hotel is located), Pehoé,
Nordenskjold, Pingo and Dickson, each with its unique beauty and vistas. There are also numerous smaller lagoons to be
discovered, including the tranquil Laguna Verde, Laguna Azul and Laguna Larga. The 320,000-acre park attracts travelers from around the world, including scientists to study climate change, mountaineers to
climb its peaks and active explorers to experience the beauty of the area. We’ll spend our time here exploring the Park’s
lakes, rivers, and glacier carved towers on foot or on horseback or by bicycle. Herds of guanacos - and perhaps a condor
sighting - will merit many photo stops.
(Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
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We will stay at Tierra Patagonia, which looks out over Lake Sarmiento, the largest lake in the park, to the mountain peaks of
Torres del Paine National Park. Old prehistoric fossils inspire the hotel’s curved shape, and its organic aerodynamic
silhouette was designed to embrace the strong Patagonian winds. It was built with local natural materials like native lenga
wood and widely available stones. Inside, wood-clad walls emanate warmth and the essence of the interior decoration aims to be authentically Patagonian with
handcrafted textiles and local textures. The hotel is a cozy hideaway after a day spent discovering the amazing Patagonian
outdoors.
There are 40 guest rooms. All the rooms have views and the superior rooms we have reserved each have an en-suite
bathroom with tubs and shower. They are decorated with handcrafted furniture, locally sourced textiles, and uniquely
Patagonian detail.
The dining area is casually elegant with handsome wooden tables and chairs, and fine flatware, linens and glassware. The
dining space is made dramatic not only by the magnificent view of the lake and mountains, but also by its iconic long red
table - a nod by the designers to the red gateposts of the ranches in the area. It lends personality to the ambience by both its
warm color and the joy and laughter of the people sitting around it. Other amenities include a living room, bar and TV
area. Wi-Fi is available only in the public areas, around the fireplaces and the spa. The award-winning Uma Spa facilities include an indoor swimming pool with hydro massage, an outdoor jacuzzi, sauna,
steam bath, a rest and relaxation area, locker rooms, and lush towels and robes. You can arrive before your treatment and
enjoy a steam bath or sauna and a swim, and then afterwards use the relaxation areas for as long as you like.
Activities include horseback riding, trekking, bicycle riding and scenic trips and each day you can choose between two half
day excursions or one full day excursion. 15
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MARCH 1
Drive to Punta Arenas
Cabo de Hornos Hotel (1 night)
We will drive to to Punta Arenas (approximately 4 hours). Overlooking the straits of Magellan, Cabo de Hornos is located right on the main square of the town and harks back to the
time when Punta Arenas was the capital of the “white gold” rush. The hotel has a relatively grand feel to it and the rooms are
comfortable with a private bathroom and TV. In the afternoon, we will visit a penguin colony before returning to the hotel for
dinner.
(Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch or boxed lunch, Dinner)
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MENDOZA
THE HEART OF THE WINE
COUNTRY
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MARCH 2
Fly to Mendoza via Santiago
The Vines (3 nights)
We will be transferred to the airport for our flight to Santiago where we will change planes and continue to Mendoza. On
arrival in Mendoza, we’ll be met and driven through the Uco Valley to The Vines Resort. The Uco Valley, which extends
southwest of Mendoza along the foothills of the Andes Cordón Plata. The two highest peaks, Tupungato Volcano and El Plata
rise over 19,000 feet to the east. In addition to being one of the country’s fastest-growing wine areas, it is also one of the
world’s highest. Cool nights and warm days allow for optimum grape growing conditions producing some of the area’s award
winning varieties: Sauvignon Blanc, Carmenere, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Malbec.
The Vines was founded in 2004. The concept was to allow wine enthusiasts the opportunity to become wine makers by
owning a 3 -10 acre professionally managed private vineyard. Today, 135 owners from all over the globe produce wine here.
300 custom vintages are crafted each year and Wine Spectator and Wine Advocate rank their Recuerdo Wines 93 & 94
points.
In January 2014, the resort was opened. A perfect blend of rustic elegance and modern comfort, the resort features spacious
private Villas, first-class service, spa treatments, and breathtaking views of the Andes at every turn. Legendary Argentine
chef Francis Mallmann serves up inspired regional fare and traditional asado feasts at their signature restaurant, Siete
Fuegos. At the heart of the resort is the lodge with its spacious indoor and outdoor common areas, a cocktail bar and wine
cellar, and gourmet dining options. During your stay, you may find yourself exploring the rugged countryside by horseback,
enjoying a yoga class, taking a fly fishing excursion on the Rio Mendoza, swimming in the infinity pool, unwinding in the hot
tub, stargazing from your private deck, or even blending your own Malbec.
(Meal Plan: March 2, Breakfast, Dinner)
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MARCH 3
Full day winery tour
The Vines Resort
Activities today will include options such as horseback riding, hiking, or biking. We will visit the Vine Winery with wine
tasting and blending. We’ll have lunch at Gimenez Rilli Winery, and return the the Vines where you can hike, bike, or enjoy
the spa. Dinner will be at 7 Fuegos.
MARCH 4
Full day Uco Valley Winery Tour
The Vines Resort
We will spend a full-day exploring the Uco Valley on a winery tour with lunch. We will have a special farewell dinner at 7
Fuegos (Meal Plan: March 3 & 4, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
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MARCH 5
Fly Buenos Aires
International Departure
We will have time to enjoy a leisurely breakfast before leaving for the airport for our flight to Buenos Aires.
If you are leaving around 8pm, you will be taken directly to the airport. Those departing around 11pm or spending the
night, will be taken to the Alvear Palace. Day rooms have not been reserved, but at no additional cost, arrangements will
be made for you to use the spa to freshen up for your flight and have dinner either at the hotel or at a nearby restaurant. (Meal Plan: Breakfast)
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Per person cost (sharing):
US$ 16,875
Your trip includes:
- Malcolm Destro hosting you throughout your safari
- Local guides
- Accommodation as described in the itinerary
- Commercial Flights, economy class:
• Buenos Aires to Calafate
• Punta Arenas to Santiago
• Santiago to Mendoza
•
Mendoza to Buenos Aires
- Private transfers - Shared transfers (boat transfer to/from Estancia Cristina, Torres del Paine to Punta Arenas)
- Activities as described in the itinerary (shared activities at Estancia Cristina, Tierra Patagonia)
- Meals as described in the itinerary and noted at the bottom of each page
- Wine and beer is served with most meals
- Gratuities
Your trip excludes:
- International flight to and from Buenos Aires
- Airport taxes and Argentina/Chile Reciprocity Tax
- Any items of a personal nature or any extras such as spa services, fly fishing, etc.
- Laundry service
- Any meals or drinks not specified above under “Your trip includes”
- Trip cancellation and health insurance
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TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
Bookings and Payments:
All safaris are booked on a ‘first-come, first-served’ basis.
Booking Fee:
Due to the individual nature of our safaris, a booking fee of 30% per person (US Funds) must be received in
order to confirm and secure your reservation. Space is limited to 12 guests.
In the event that the required 12 guests are not signed up 180 days before the safari start date, this fee will
be refunded. Once the safari is secured with 12 guests, your deposits are non-refundable and will be
deducted from the total amount payable for the safari. Payments:
- The final payment is due 180 days before your safari departure date.
- Payment can be made by personal check or bank wire. Please note that credit cards are not accepted.
Cancellation:
- Booking fee (see above)
- From 180 days to your start date there is a 100% cancellation fee
Your itinerary and costing is subject to change in the event of exceptional cost increases in accommodation
or airline tariffs or extreme currency fluctuations. Your guide reserves the right to make any changes he
deems necessary to the itinerary to provide optimum field conditions.
Risks and Insurance:
While participating under Royal African Safaris arrangements with our safari operators, certain unavoidable
risks and dangers may occur, including but not limited to: accidents, illness, travel by air, automobile, or other
conveyance, wildlife and the forces of nature. You will be in isolated, rugged and wilderness terrain, often away from medical facilities, and involved in
activities that are potentially dangerous such as: climbing, game spotting, horseback riding, canoeing, and
nature walks. Neither Royal African Safaris, nor our safari operators accept responsibility or liability for any
injury, loss or damage suffered by any person or property from any cause whatsoever.
Neither Royal African Safaris nor its operators accepts responsibility for any delay prior to or during the
course of our safaris brought about by strikes, weather conditions or any other circumstances beyond our
control. If Royal African Safaris judges any destination to be unsafe it will offer to reschedule, relocate, or
refund your trip. If field conditions should not be optimum due to weather conditions, operators reserve the
right to change the itinerary at any time.
All individuals come on safari at their own risk and must therefore provide their own travel, health and
accident insurance coverage during the safari. In addition, we strongly advise guests to take out cancellation
insurance to cover any possibilities of personal health or family matters that would result in the inability to
travel.
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