11 Day Patagonia Explorer

11 DAY PATAGONIA EXPLORER

DESTINATIONS — VANCOUVER LAKE LOUISE JASPER BANFF JUNEAU KETCHIKAN CALGARY COLUMBIA ICEFIELDS INSIDE PASSAGE KAMLOOPS BLUE RIVER SEATTLE TRACY ARM FJORD SKAGWAY

The information provided in this document is subject to change and may be affected by unforeseen events outside the control of Inspiring Vacations. Where changes to your itinerary or bookings occur, appropriate advice or instructions will be sent to your email address.

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DAY 1

Destination Bariloche Meals included Hotel Hotel Cacique Inacayal, or similar

Welcome to Bariloche. This Argentinian resort town has a picture-perfect setting – on the shores of Nahuel Hapi Lake, flanked by Andean peaks. There will be a welcome meeting at 6 pm; please look for a note in the hotel lobby or ask the hotel reception where it will take place. Make sure you have your insurance and next of kind details on hand to pass over to your leader during this meeting. While you're here, take a stroll through town and perhaps sample some of the town's famed artisan chocolate. This city is also an excellent chance to try some of Argentina's first-rate steak.

Special Information: If you can't arrange a flight that will arrive in time for the welcome meeting, you may wish to arrive a day early so you're able to attend. We'll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability). If you're going to be late, please inform the hotel reception. We'll be collecting your insurance details and next of kin information at this meeting, so please ensure you have all these details to provide to your leader.

DAY 2

Destination Bariloche Meals included Breakfast Hotel Hotel Cacique Inacayal, or similar

This morning you will venture out to do the famous Circuito Chico, a short circuit that takes in the best views of the regio, passing by jewel tones lakes, forest and snow capped peaks. At the end of the circuit, take a chairlift up Cerro Campanario. The scenery here is truly stunning, so it's a must to get out and explore and take in all the amazing views. In the afternoon, the group will visit a brew master who will share with you his knowledge and passion for micro- brewing. Experience firsthand the reason behind the rapid growth of this industry in a culinary landscape normally dominated by chocolate and smoked goods producers.

DAY 3

Destination Bariloche Meals included Breakfast, Lunch Hotel Hotel Cacique Inacayal, or similar

Today is a free day for you to explore more of this stunning landscape.

DAY 4

Destination Bariloche  Lake Crossing  Puerto Varas Meals included Breakfast Hotel Hotel Cabaña del Lago, or similar

Cross the Andes via a series of beautiful lakes, finishing in Puerto Varas in Chile. Depart at 8.30 am, enjoying scenes of Swiss architecture and beautiful gardens. Arrive in Puerto Panuelo and board your catamaran. Cruise around Lago Nahuel Huapi (approximately 1 hour). Then set sail for Puerto Blest, taking in green forest scenery and spotting birds. Arrive in Puerto Blest and transfer to a bus, in which you will skirt the border along the Rio Frias for around 3 km. Arrive in Puerto Alegre, then continue on the 'Ciudad de la Fe' ferry in order to navigate Lago Frias and its tranquil waters, headed for Puerto Frias. On this route you will catch sight of Cerro Tronador (3491 m). After a short trip (approximately 20 minutes), arrive at the tiny pier at Puerto Frias which is nestled among gorgeous vegetation. After finishing up at

Call 1300 88 66 88 Email [email protected] www.inspiringvacations.com P1 TOUR ITINERARY the Argentine Border in Puerto Frias, continue by bus to Peulla. You will be in the midst of Cerro Tronador and its nine glaciers. At around 2pm, enter Parque Nacional Vicente Pérez Rosales where Peulla is located. Soon after you finish your entry to Chile through the Chilean Border located in Peulla, visit the Hotel Peulla and Hotel Natura Patagonia. There's time to get some lunch here. At 4pm, sail to towards Petrohué, navigating Lago Todos los Santos. Weather permitting, take in incredible views of the Osorno Volcano and Puntiagudo Volcano and Cerro Tronador. From Petrohué embark in the last bus of this journey, towards Puerto Varas. Bordering the Llanquihue Lake, breathtaking views of the Osorno and Calbuco volcanoes dominate the landscape. Around 7pm, arrive to Puerto Varas and transfer to hotel Cabaña del Lago.

DAY 5

Destination Puerto Varas Meals included Breakfast Hotel Hotel Cabaña del Lago, or similar

Today's included tour will begin shortly after breakfast. You will be picked up in a private vehicle from the hotel and taken to Chiloe. The journey is approximately four hours including time on the ferry. The afternoon will be spent exploring the unique culture of Chiloe. In the morning we will visit a penguin colony on the coast. Later in the afternoon, you will explore the interactive and handicraft museum of Ancud, Municipal Market, downtown and Costanera avenue (promenade). In the evening we will start our drive back to Puerto Montt.

DAY 6

Destination Puerto Varas  Punta Arenas  Puerto Natales Meals included Breakfast Hotel Remota Hotel, or similar

Fly to Punta Arenas and transfer to your hotel. Founded in 1848, Punta Arenas became the urban, commercial, cultural and social center that spread all over Magallanes. Located on the edge of The Strait of Magellan, Punta Arenas is the perfect base to load-up on any necessary supplies before embarking on a 2 day exploration of Torres del Paine National Park. Your flight into Punta Arenas will arrive at approximately 1:30 pm. Depart at around 3 pm to your Feature Stay Hotel in Puerto Natales, and arrive at dinnertime after a three-hour drive.

DAY 7

Destination Puerto Natales  Grey Glacier  Puerto Natales Meals included Breakfast, Lunch Hotel Remota Hotel, or similar

Enjoy a late breakfast before departing for Lago Grey. As you enter the realm of Chilean Patagonia you will be faced with breathtaking views of the Paine massif! Soon after you will arrive at the hotel just in time for lunch. This afternoon, embark on a cruise to the incredible Grey Glacier. You will set off from the Remota Hotel heading southwest. During the journey you will be able to see Nothofagus forests and wild fauna. On your way, head to the accommodation to check in for the sailing trip. Board your vessel to set off on a your sailing journey (approximately 3 hours return). You will visit the east and west faces of the Grey glacier, with the boat getting as near as possible to the glacier, depending on the ice slides of the glacier. Sometimes icebergs will be seen floating in the lake, and they might even reach the shore. You will return to the Remota hotel at approximately 8 pm this evening.

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DAY 8

Destination Puerto Natales  Torres del Paine  Puerto Natales Meals included Breakfast, Lunch Hotel Remota Hotel, or similar

Take a full-day vehicle tour around the national park today (approximately 8 hours). We will stop for views of the Serrano and its winding river. Continuing on be struck by the view of Pehoe lake, then arrive at Pudeto shelter, where after a 30-minute walk you will hear the thunderous sound of the famous Salto Grande Waterfall into the Nordenskjold lake. Enjoy amazing views of Cuernos del Paine, then head to Sarmiento Lake. Keep a lookout for condors, guanacos and grey foxes. Arrive at the Amarga Lagoon where flamingoes might be feeding, if the weather is clear, see Torres del Paine above and its reflection in the water. Finally, visit the Paine cascade, then the radiant Azul blue lagoon.

DAY 9

Destination Puerto Natales  El Calafate Meals included Breakfast Hotel Hotel La Cantera, or similar

Private transfer across the border to Argentina and on to El Calafate (approximately 5 hours). This is your gateway to the Glacier National Park. Being a major hub for adventurers headed for Perito Moreno, El Calafate has undergone a lot of development in recent decades, but retains plenty of charm. In the evening, perhaps take the opportunity to try some world-famous Argentinian steak or some fresh-caught local trout.

DAY 10

Destination El Calafate Meals included Breakfast Hotel Hotel La Cantera, or similar

Spend some time exploring the awe-inspiring Perito Merino Glacier. This is one of the few glaciers in the world that's actually advancing rather than melting away. At 3 kilometres wide and 35 kilometres long, it's an incredibly massive icescape. Watch and listen to the crack of the ice as it plunges into the waters below. Interestingly, massive ruptures occur to the glacier every four to five years as part of cyclical ice bridge formations. In the evening, return to El Calafate and relax for the evening.

PERITO MORENO GLACIER TREK: Full passport details are required at the time of booking to hold spaces on the optional glacier trek, as this activity has limited availability. Please note the maximum age limit for this activity is 65. The operator of this activity will not make exceptions, even with a medical certificate. Those 65 and older have the opportunity to walk along the platforms and balconies surrounding the glacier & take in this magnificent site from a number of angles. Weather depending, your guide may also be able to organise some free time at the north face beach (viewpoint).

DAY 11

Destination El Calafate Meals included Breakfast Accommodation N/A

Your trip comes to an end after breakfast. You can book a flight to Buenos Aires or to Ushuaia to continue your journey,

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Inclusions

WHAT'S INCLUDED 10 nights accommodation All Transportation Meals: 10 breakfasts, 3 lunches as per itinerary Group size: Maximum 16 people 1 English speaking tour leader – Will accompany the group throughout All accommodation as listed All entrance fees to the sites listed (except optionals) All activities listed in the itinerary unless a paid optional Comfortable, dedicated private transportation throughout 24/7 customer service and your own Dedicated Support Agent

SIGHTSEEING HIGHLIGHTS Bariloche is a wonderland of outdoor delights. A leisurely three- night stay gives you time to cruise Nahuel Hapi Lake, soak up Andean scenery and sample local specialities

Learn more about the rapid growth of the microbrewery industry from a passionate and knowledgeable brew master in the region

Bask in the splendour of Argentina's Lakes District en route to Puerto Varas, Chile. A full day of cruising and sightseeing reveals lush forests, misty Andean giants and snow-capped volcanoes

Enjoy a 2 night 'feature stay' in Torres del Paine National Park

Discover the best of Torres del Paine National Park's glacial landscapes, with an in-depth day trip to its hidden lagoons and lakes – plus a morning cruise to the Grey Glacier

Step into the world of the Perito Merino Glacier. This extraordinary, 35-kilometre-long ice mass is one of the few glaciers in the world that's advancing rather than melting away

Fine Print

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HOW TO BOOK & Deposit & Payments PAYMENTS Book now and secure your package with only a $400 deposit per person. Pay a 2nd instalment of $2654 per person within 28 days. You will then be invoiced for final payment 90 days prior to departure.

Booking Process

Select the purple 'Reserve Your Seat' tab to begin your booking (you must 'Sign Up' first by entering your email and creating a password) Then select the purple 'Book now' tab of the tour you have selected Select your Departure Date, Departure City, Number of Passengers, Room Configuration, any Upgrade Options, and enter any Special Requests Click the purple ‘Proceed to Secure Checkout' tab Enter your credit card or PayPal details to secure your deposit/payment. You may also pay via BPAY (not available within 70 days of departure) Once your order is complete, you will be prompted to complete a Booking Form so that we can fulfil your booking Your booking is confirmed once your Booking Form is submitted and you can begin the countdown to your Inspiring Vacation! You will then be allocated and contacted by one of our Dedicated Support Agent's (within 48 hours) who will support you right up until you return from your journey

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OPTIONAL TOURS To enhance your journey, we are offering guests a choice of the following optional activities:

Guided excursion to El Bolson and Puelo Lake (based 6 pax) - USD77 (Day 3) Victoria Island boat tour with lunch (based on 6 pax) - USD65 (Day 3) Museo Regional de Magallanes - CLP1000 (Day 6) Perito Moreno - Mini-trek on the glacier including short cruise to glacier base (65 yrs old is the maximum age permitted) - ARS8000 (Day 10)

Costs are per person.

The optional tours and shore excursions can only be purchased on-tour with your guide or the ship staff, and are payable in local currency. Optional tours are subject to conditions such as traffic, weather and sightseeing schedules, as well as minimum numbers.

EXCLUSIONS Return International Airfares Transfers Visas (if applicable) Travel insurance (compulsory) Tipping Anything not mentioned in the itinerary Optional activities Personal expenses

IMPORTANT Fitness Requirements INFORMATION While the tour itinerary should give you some guidance and overview to the expected requirements, a basic level of fitness will be required. If you have any concerns please consult your healthcare provider prior to purchase/travel.

As a general rule, porterage is not included, therefore at all times you are expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available.

Tipping A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. While tipping is not customary, it's of great significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels, inspires excellent service, and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many destinations.

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You may also consider tipping your tour leader and driver for outstanding service throughout your trip. Remember, a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.

Accommodation The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences, however, any changes are beyond our control.

Single Supplement A Single Supplement is available on this trip from an extra $4080.

Triple Share Not available.

Travel Insurance Travel insurance is required to protect yourself against the unexpected.

We have partnered with nib to offer our customers competitive rates for their travel insurance. You can book comprehensive or budget cover simply by clicking HERE to arrange your policy.

Visa & Passport information It is the traveller's responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the intended date of your return.

Please note that these details are subject to change without notice. We recommend visiting https://smartraveller.gov.au for up to date information in terms of entry requirements.

Tour Documentation Final documentation, including e-tickets and hotel details, will be provided approximately 30 days prior to travel.

Group Size Maximum 16 people.

Children Children must be 15 years old or over and share a room with parents at all times. Children are charged the same price as adults.

Tour Length The total length of the tour in days includes time spent inflight and is

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subject to change, depending on the flight schedule. Please refer to the day-by-day itinerary for the time spent in your destination(s).

Passport Details Required Full passport details are required at the time of booking in order to confirm entrance fees for certain sites and activities, and transport tickets. Delays in providing this information may result in booking fees or changes to your itinerary.

Perito Moreno Glacier - Mini Trek Please note the maximum age limit for this activity is 65 years old.

Arrival Transfer An airport arrival transfer is included. Please provide your flight details at time of booking.

WHAT CLIMATE TO Click HERE for more information on the weather in Argentina. EXPECT

CHANGE OF MIND Refundable deposit within 28 days of purchase: GUARANTEE - EFFECTIVE FROM 13 MARCH 2020 For cancellations made within 28 days of paying the deposit on any tour, your deposit can be refunded in full or can be transferred to a new booking should you decide to change to another package or destination. Please note this change of mind guarantee does not apply for bookings made within 90 days of departure, after which time our standard 48 hour cooling off period applies. After this time, your booking becomes non-refundable.

All cancellation or change requests must be advised in writing to our Customer Service Team at [email protected] prior to the cut-off period, to allow us sufficient time to respond and action your request. Should we not hear from you following this time period, your booking becomes non-refundable and you will be issued with a reminder for the second installment due for your booking.

Refund times will vary and the timeframe of which will be advised at the time of cancellation. Any refund of deposit will be issued back to the original form of payment.

Any bookings made prior to 13 March 2020 must abide by the original payment term conditions.

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Transferrable second installment up until 90 days before scheduled departure:

Following the second installment payment and up until 90 days before your departure only, should you wish to postpone your travel or transfer to another package, we can provide you with a credit note of the current balance paid on your booking, to be used to rebook within 18 months of the credit being issued.

Any change request must be advised in writing to our Customer Service Team at [email protected] prior to the cut-off period specified, to allow us sufficient time to respond and action your request. Should we not hear from you once inside 90 days of scheduled departure, your booking remains non-refundable and becomes non- transferrable, and you will be issued with a reminder for the final balance due for your booking.

Any bookings made prior to 13 March 2020 must abide by the original payment term conditions.

Please refer to our full Terms and Conditions for more details

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