Chile & Argentina: The Andes to Patagonia
Plus optional extensions to Santiago & Easter Island, Chile and Iguassu Falls Jungle Expedition
2016
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Overseas Adventure Travel Chile & Argentina: The Andes to Patagonia Handbook Table of Contents 1. TRAVEL DOCUMENTS & ENTRY REQUIREMENTS ...... 3 YOUR PASSPORT ...... 3 VISAS REQUIRED ...... 4 OVERSEAS TAXES AND FEES ...... 5 AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS PROHIBITED ...... 5 EMERGENCY PHOTOCOPIES ...... 5 AIRPORT TRANSFERS ...... 5 2. HEALTH ...... 6 IS THIS ADVENTURE RIGHT FOR YOU ? ...... 6 STEPS TO TAKE BEFORE YOUR TRIP ...... 7 Yellow Fever Vaccination – Recommended for Extension ...... 7 Medical Checkup ...... 8 STAYING HEALTHY ON YOUR TRIP ...... 10 3. MONEY MATTERS ...... 11 HOW TO CARRY YOUR MONEY ...... 11 CURRENCY ...... 13 TIPPING SUGGESTIONS ...... 14 SHOPPING IN CHILE & ARGENTINA ...... 14 U.S. Customs Regulations and Shipping Charges ...... 15 4. A WORD ABOUT THE WEATHER ...... 16 5. PACKING JUST WHAT YOU NEED ...... 20 YOUR LUGGAGE & LOCKS ...... 20 CLOTHING SUGGESTIONS ...... 22 TRAVELER ’S CHECKLISTS ...... 23 A WORD ABOUT ELECTRICITY ...... 26 6. LEARN ABOUT YOUR DESTINATIONS ...... 27 ARGENTINA AT A GLANCE ...... 27 CHILE AT A GLANCE ...... 29 EASTER ISLAND AT A GLANCE —OPTIONAL EXTENSION ...... 31 CULTURE & POINTS TO KNOW ...... 32 The Nature of Travel in South America...... 32 Cuisine ...... 32 Language Barrier ...... 33 Taking Photographs ...... 33 SAFETY & SECURITY ...... 33 COMMUNICATIONS ...... 34 7. ADDITIONAL RESOURCES ...... 35 SUGGESTED READINGS ...... 35 SUGGESTED MOVIES ...... 38 USEFUL WEBSITES ...... 40
ACA.ACZ.ACT 16 07/06/16 2 Travel Documents
1. Travel Documents & Entry Requirements
Your Passport Please take a moment to confirm that your passport meets all of these requirements: • It should be valid for at least 6 months after your scheduled return to the U.S. • It should have the recommended number of blank pages (see below for details). • The blank pages must be labeled “Visas” at the top. Pages labeled “Amendments and Endorsements” are not acceptable.
Recommended number of blank pages Know that this recommendation is based on a “worst case” scenario. When you are on this adventure, you might use fewer pages, depending on the whims of the Immigration official on duty that day. Since the consequence of having too few pages can be severe—you could be denied entry into a country—we at OAT feel that in this case, safe is better than sorry, and we strongly recommend that you follow these guidelines.
• Main trip only : If you are taking only the main trip, you will require 4 blank passport pages. • Pre-trip extension to Easter Island : You’ll need 1 more page, for a total of 5. • Post-trip to Iguassu Falls : You’ll need 2 more pages, for a total of 6. • Both a pre- and a post-trip extension : You will need a total of 7 blank passport pages.
If you need to renew your passport: Contact the National Passport Information Center (NPIC) at 1-877-487-2778, or visit their website at www.travel.state.gov for information on obtaining a new passport or renewing your existing passport. You may also contact our recommended visa service company, PVS International, at 1-800-556-9990 for help with your passport.
ACA.ACZ.ACT 16 07/06/16 3 Travel Documents Visas Required We’ll be sending you a detailed Visa Packet with instructions, application forms, and fees about 100 days prior to your departure . In the meantime, we’re providing the information below as a guideline on what to expect. This info is for U.S. citizens only. All visas and fees are subject to change.
• Argentina (main trip)—visa not required: For a U.S. citizen, a visa is not required for entry into Argentina.
• Chile (main trip and optional Easter Island extension)—visa not required: For a U.S. citizen, a visa is not required for entry into Chile for a stay of up to 90 days.
• Brazil (optional Iguassu Falls extension)—visa required. Can only be obtained in advance: If you are taking the optional extension to Iguassu Falls, you will need a visa to join the activities on the Brazilian side of the falls. You must obtain your visa for Brazil before you leave home. At the time of writing, the Brazilian government was charging approximately $200 per person for a visa good for up to 10 years.
Embassy contact information If you are staying longer in any of these countries, you should check with their embassy or consulate for the applicable regulations:
Argentina: (202) 238-6400 Chile: (202) 785-1746
The Brazilian consulates can be reached at: Atlanta (404) 949-2400, Boston (617) 542-4000, Chicago (312) 464-0244, Houston (713) 961-3063/961-3064/961-3065, L.A. (323) 651-2664, Miami (305) 285- 6200, New York (917) 777-7777, San Francisco (415) 981-8170 and Washington DC (202) 461-3000.
Traveling without a U.S. passport? If you are not a U.S. citizen, or if your passport is from any country other than the U.S., it is your responsibility to check with your local consulate, embassy, or a visa services company about possible visa requirements. For your convenience, we recommend the services of PVS International, a national visa service located in Washington D.C.; they can be reached at 1-800-556-9990 or www.pvsinternational.org .
ACA.ACZ.ACT 16 07/06/16 4 Travel Documents Overseas Taxes and Fees This tour may have taxes and fees that cannot be included in your airline ticket price because you are required to pay them in person onsite. All taxes are subject to change without notice and can be paid in cash (either U.S. or local currency). If applicable, you will receive a list of these fees with your Final Documents.
Agricultural Products Prohibited Like some parts of the U.S. such as California and Hawaii, Chile severely restricts the entry of agricultural products to protect against the accidental transport of pests. Chile's requirements are very strictly enforced and incur large fines for violation . If you are arriving in Chile by air, we advise you to discard any fruit, nuts, vegetables, seeds, dairy products including cheese, flowers (including dried flowers), or unprocessed meats before landing.
If you are arriving by air, the flight attendants will distribute an Agricultural Products form that you must complete. On this form you’ll be asked to declare whether or not you are bringing any fruits, nuts, or other organic products into Chile. If you are carrying any items of this nature, you must declare them on this form . Fines of up to $200 could result if customs officers find even a simple pack of peanuts or an apple.
Emergency Photocopies The smartest and easiest security precaution you can take is to carry photocopies of key documents: the photo page of your passport plus any applicable visas, your air itinerary, and credit card numbers. Add emergency phone numbers like your credit card company and the number for your travel protection plan. Store copies separate from the originals. This can save you time, money, and bother if your documents are lost during your trip.
If you don’t feel like taking paper copies, consider going digital. Scan everything and email it to yourself. That way as long as you have access to email, you can access the info you need. Another option is to give copies to a trusted friend or relative at home as a backup that they can email or fax to you if you need it.
Airport Transfers Please note: If you plan on booking your own international flights or arranging with our air department to arrive/depart on an earlier/later date than standard for your program, airport transfers will NOT be included in your program price. Transfers must be purchased separately, as an optional add-on, and are subject to availability. To learn more, or purchase airport transfers, please call our Traveler Support team at 1-800-221-0814.
When booking your international flights, please also note that the tour will end on Day 17 of the base tour (Day 22 of the post trip) for your overnight flight back to the United States.
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2. Health Is This Adventure Right For You? We’ve worked closely with our local Trip Leaders and regional associates to identify the aspects of this adventure that you should be aware of, from physical requirements to cultural factors. Please carefully review the information below prior to departing on this adventure . We reserve the right for our Trip Leaders to modify participation, or in some circumstances send travelers home, if their condition would adversely affect the health, safety, or enjoyment of themselves or of other travelers.
Pacing • 8 locations in 16 days with two 1-night stays • Several long overland drives, including one 6-hour transfer and two transfers of up to 12 hours crossing the borders between Argentina and Chile
Physical requirements • Not appropriate for travelers using wheelchairs, walkers, or other mobility aids • You must be able to walk 3 miles unassisted and participate in 6-8 hours of physical activities each day On occasion, this might be as much as 6 hours of continuous activity. • Your trip may take you into remote areas, with no nearby medical facilities.
Climate • Daytime temperatures average between 50-60°F year-round and rain or high winds are possible at any time in the Andes and Patagonia • The seasons in South America are the reverse of those in the Northern Hemisphere. October through March are the warmest months, while the coldest are April through September.
Terrain • Travel over city streets, bumpy roads, and rugged paths; and walk and hike through backwoods and over uneven terrain on 6 treks of around 2 hours each • Agility and balance are required for horseback rides, and embarking and disembarking small fishing boats
Transportation • Travel by minibus (no toilet on board), ferry, horse, chairlift, and 10-passenger small boat • Three 6- to 12-hour drives, and 3 internal flights of 2-5 hours each
Accommodations & Facilities • All accommodations are hotel-standard and feature private baths
Optional extension to Iguassu Falls • We spend 2 nights in the jungle at an lodge located in a remote area (about two and a half hours through jungle to the nearest city). In order to protect the jungle environment, the lodge has limited electricity and does not offer T.V., telephone, or air conditioning. • As this is a tropical jungle, there are insects and warm temperatures all year round; the highest temperatures are from November through February. • This extension is designed with nature lovers and “outdoorsy” types in mind: During the day, we are often engaged in outdoor activities such as hiking, river floats, kayaking, and walks along the falls.
ACA.ACZ.ACT 16 07/06/16 6 Health Steps to Take Before Your Trip Before you leave on your adventure, there are at least four health-related things you should do. We’ll outline some of these steps in more detail in the following pages, but for now, here’s the short list:
• Step 1: Check with the CDC for their recommendations for the countries you’ll be visiting. You can contact them online at wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel or by phone at 1-800-232-4636 . • Step 2: Have a medical checkup with your doctor. • Step 3: Pick up any necessary medications, both prescription and over-the-counter. • Step 4: Have a dental and/or eye checkup. (Recommended, but less important than steps 1-3.)
Yellow Fever Vaccination – Recommended for Extension While the CDC offers a wide range of vaccination and medication suggestions, there is one in particular that we’d like to draw your attention to—the yellow fever vaccine.
The CDC does not recommend the yellow fever vaccination for any the areas we travel to on the main trip. However, travelers on the extension to Iguassu Falls should note that the CDC does recommend the yellow fever vaccination for this region, if your health allows. This is not a legal requirement , but a health recommendation that you should discuss with your doctor. (He or she can offer a suggestion tailored to your personal medical history.)
TIP for travelers on the Iguassu extension : We recommend that if you have received the vaccination, you have your Yellow Fever Card with you when traveling. If you cannot receive the vaccination for medical reasons, we suggest you bring with you a letter from your medical provider stating so. If Argentina or Brazil (the countries we visit at the falls) makes a last-minute change to its entry policy before you leave, having one of these documents with you could make all the difference.
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Medical Checkup After checking the CDC’s recommendations, we strongly recommend that you have a medical checkup with your doctor at least six weeks before your trip. (We suggest you check with the CDC first so that you can have an informed conversation with your doctor about vaccines and such.) Topics to discuss during your checkup are:
• The CDC recommendations. The CDC makes suggestions based on the destination, but that doesn’t mean the suggestions are right for you. Your doctor will be able to advise you on what is best considering your unique medical history. • Advice on what medicines (if any) to bring. For our suggestions of what types of medications to ask your doctor about, see the section titled “Medications” that follows. Remember to get a copy of any prescriptions—written as a generic drug name—so you can replace your medications if they are lost during the trip. • Your fitness for this adventure. This is a must if you have any medical conditions or physical limitations. Use the “Is This Adventure Right For You?” section on previous pages as a guideline. Make certain to review any medical condition you have, particularly cardiac or respiratory disease or diabetes, and discuss the details of the trip itinerary as it pertains to your health. Remember, your trip may take you into remote areas, with no nearby medical facilities.
Please notify us in writing about any medical condition that may require special attention. If your report is normal, you don’t need to send it to us. If you send us a medical report, we don’t use it to determine if you should take this trip, or if you are likely to enjoy it. Those decisions are up to you and your doctor.
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Medications Prescription medication suggestions Of course, you’ll need to bring an ample supply of any prescription medications you happen to be taking. You’ll also want to talk to your doctor about any medications suggested by the CDC. In addition, we suggest you ask about prescriptions for:
• An antibiotic medication for gastrointestinal illness • A pain medication. You might need this in the unlikely event of an injury in a location where medical attention would be delayed.
Over-the-counter medication suggestions When traveling, keep in mind that not every country has approved every medication. Most major brands are OK, but some medications we take for granted are not allowed in other countries. Fortunately, the U.S. State Department offers advice on restricted medications online at http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/english/go/customs.html . (Look under the “Criminal Penalties” and “Special Circumstances” sections of each country you’ll be visiting. If you don’t see anything mentioned, then major U.S. brands should be fine.)
TIP : At time of writing, the State Department did not have any special warnings about American over- the-counter medications for Argentina, Brazil, or Chile.
Traveling with medications To avoid loss and to have them handy, pack medications in your carry-on bag. For quicker security screening at the airport—and a better experience if you get stopped by customs while overseas—keep medicines in their original, labeled containers. To be prepared for any unforeseen loss of your medications, you should also bring copies of the prescriptions, written using the generic drug name rather than a brand name.
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Staying Healthy on Your Trip
Safe Water Tap water is generally safe to drink in Argentina and Chile, but it is processed differently than in the U.S., so it may feel “heavy” and could upset your system. Fortunately, if you prefer bottled water, it is readily available for you to buy and is inexpensive compared to the U.S. When buying bottled water, inspect each bottle before you buy it to make sure the cap is sealed properly. To fight dehydration, carry a bottle in your daypack at all times.
Safe Food We’ve carefully chosen the restaurants for your group meals. Fruits and vegetables are safe to eat in Argentina and Chile.
ACA.ACZ.ACT 16 07/06/16 10 Money Matters
3. Money Matters
How to Carry Your Money Generally speaking, you’ll want to bring a mixture of different payment methods—some cash to exchange and a couple of cards—so that you’ll be prepared for any situation. In this chapter, we offer some tips on each type of payment method. One note: Traveler’s checks are not recommended. They can be difficult to exchange and are rarely accepted in shops and restaurants.
Cash We recommend that you bring some cash with you on this adventure. Cash has a few advantages over other forms of payment. It is more widely accepted than any other form of payment , and sometimes commands a better exchange rate. Cash is also a better choice for rural or undeveloped areas where ATMs and credit card machines are scarce.
So we know that bringing cash is a good idea—does that mean U.S. dollars or local currency? There is no need to obtain local currency before your trip. In fact, your U.S. bank may not carry it. You can change money when you arrive at the airport, or at banks, most hotels, and money exchange offices. For more information on what type of currency can be used on this trip, see the “Currency” section. Torn, dirty, or taped U.S. bills may not be accepted for exchange or payment.
ATMs When traveling, typically PLUS, Cirrus, and other international bank networks are available throughout large cities and towns. On this adventure, ATMs are available in cities and larger towns, like Buenos Aires, Bariloche, Santiago, Puerto Varas and Punta Arenas, but not in remote areas. It might be a good idea to obtain a store of cash in those cities to prepare for your travel in more remote areas. Your Trip Leader will advise you on ATM availability and locations during the trip.
At time of writing, there are only two banks on Easter Island with ATMs. Therefore, if you are taking the extension to Easter Island, we suggest that you bring enough cash to cover your expenses during the extension or make a withdrawal in Santiago before your flight to the island.
Using a local ATM on an international network will allow you to withdraw money from your U.S. account in local currency; your bank at home will calculate the conversion rate and charge you in U.S. dollars. However, many banks charge a fee ranging from $1 to $5 for every time you use a foreign ATM. Others will charge you a percentage of what you withdraw. We recommend that you check with your bank before you depart. You’ll also want to notify your bank that you’ll be out of the country—that way when they see foreign ATM withdrawals, they won’t put a fraud alert on your account. Lastly, don’t forget to memorize the actual digits of your card’s PIN number (many keypads at foreign ATMs do not include letters on their keys—they only display numbers.)
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Credit Cards Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Buenos Aires for major purchases and in shops associated with the tourist trade (souvenirs, museum gift shops, etc.), but may not be accepted by smaller shops or restaurants in Patagonia. In remote locations, such as Chiloe, credit/debit cards are usually not accepted; cash is the preferred form of payment. If you are taking the optional trip extension to Iguassu, be aware that our jungle lodge does not accept credit/debit cards. If you are taking the optional extension to Easter Island, do not plan on being able to use your credit card on the island. We strongly recommend that you bring enough cash to cover your expenses during the extension.
Even if you do not plan on using them, we suggest you bring one or two credit or debit cards as a “backup” or for optional tours. We also suggest that you bring more than one brand of card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express) if possible, because not every shop will take every card. For example, although the Discover card is now accepted in some countries outside the U.S., it is not widely adopted, so other brands will work at a much larger range of stores, restaurants, etc.
TIP : Many credit card companies have fraud alert departments that will freeze your card if they see suspicious charges—such as charges from another country. To avoid an accidental security block, it is a good idea to notify your credit card company you will be using your cards abroad. You can do this by calling their customer service number a week or two before your departure.
You should also double-check what phone number you could call if you have a problem with a card while you are abroad. Don’t assume you can use the 1-800 number printed on the back of your card—most 1- 800 numbers don’t work outside of the U.S.!
And speaking of credit cards, please keep in mind that optional tours with OAT can only be purchased with a credit or debit card (if it has a credit card logo and allows you to sign for purchases). Because our headquarters are in Boston, charges may appear to be from Boston or might be labeled as "OPT Boston" (depending on your credit card company).
ACA.ACZ.ACT 16 07/06/16 12 Money Matters Currency For current exchange rates, please refer to our website www.oattravel.com, your bank, or the financial section of your newspaper.
In Argentina The official Argentinean currency is the peso. Banknote and coin denominations are as follows: ° Banknotes come in denominations of 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 pesos ° Coins come in denominations of 5, 10, 25, and 50 cents; 1 and 2 pesos In Argentina, U.S. dollars can be accepted for payment at tourist-related businesses or in a large city. At the time of writing, tips to our OAT staff in U.S. dollars are generally more appreciated than tips in pesos because of the strong exchange rate. Previous travelers have suggested bringing a mix of different denomination U.S. bills—some small ones for tipping, and some larger ones for exchanging.
In Brazil The monetary unit of Brazil is the Real (R$). The R$ is divided into 100 centavos. Banknote and coin denominations are as follows: ° Banknotes: 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 ° Coins: 5, 10, 25, and 50 centavos; 1 Real It is unlikely that you will need Brazilian reals for this adventure; at Iguassu Falls, you will find that shops are willing to take Argentine pesos or U.S. dollars.
In Chile The basic unit of currency in Chile is the peso. Banknote and coin denominations are as follows: ° Banknotes: 1000, 2000, 5000, 10,000, and 20,000 pesos ° Coins: 1, 5, 10, 50, 100, and 500 pesos In Chile, U.S. dollars are sometimes accepted at tourist-related businesses or for large-ticket purchases, but generally local currency is preferred. It can be difficult to change a bill larger than 1000 pesos in rural areas or in a small business. For our OAT staff in Chile, you may tip in local currency or in U.S. dollars. U.S. dollars are sometimes accepted at tourist-related businesses or for large-ticket.
ACA.ACZ.ACT 16 07/06/16 13 Money Matters Tipping Suggestions Of course, whether you tip, and how much, is always at your own discretion. For those of you who have asked for tipping suggestions, we offer these guidelines. Listed below are our recommendations for the tips that are not included in your tour price. All tips are quoted in U.S. dollars; tips can be converted and paid in local currency or in U.S. dollars. Do not use personal or traveler's checks for tips.
• OAT Trip Leader: It is customary to express a personal "thank you" to your OAT Trip Leader at the end your trip, especially if he or she has provided you with individual assistance. As a guideline, many travelers give $7-$10 per person, per day. • Housekeeping staff at hotels : $1 per night • Waiters : Your Trip Leader will tip waiters for included meals. If you are dining on your own, 10- 15% is customary, and tips are usually left in cash. Most restaurants charge a table fee, called servicio de mesa , which is not a tip, but more like a cover charge .
Your tour price includes gratuities on the main trip and extensions for local guides, drivers, and luggage porters that may assist you during the scheduled activities on your adventure. Shopping in Chile & Argentina It is Overseas Adventure Travel's goal to identify and provide you with shopping opportunities that highlight unique, locally-produced products with good value from reliable vendors. For this reason there may be scheduled visits to local shops during your adventure. There is no requirement to make a purchase during these stops, and any purchase made is a direct transaction with the shop in question, subject to the vendor’s terms of purchase. Overseas Adventure Travel cannot be responsible for purchases you make on your trip or for the shipment of your purchases.
Crafts & Souvenirs Each country has its own specialties: • Argentina: Argentina is world-famous for its leather goods, including those made from cowhide, kidskin, pigskin, sheepskin, lizard, snake, and even porcupine. Popular buys include belts, jackets, boots, shoes, skirts, pants, briefcases, and purses. These come in a rainbow of pastels and vivid colors, and a variety of textures from rough suedes to soft leathers. Unique to Argentina is capybara leather (carpincho). Sturdy, waterproof, and most attractive, this leather makes for an unusual purchase. Other items for sale in Argentina include wool sweaters, clothing made of the Argentine equivalent of cashmere, ponchos, wine, and antique silver gaucho accessories.
• Chile: Among Chilean goods, the excellent textiles are worth perusing. For "typical" items, colorful hand-woven ponchos are a good buy, as well as vicuna rugs, and—although perhaps a little heavy for air travel—there is excellent artisan copper work. Chilean stones have achieved much popularity abroad, and there are many "rock shops" in the city and suburbs selling quality work in lapis lazuli, Chilean jade, amethyst, agate, onyx, and others. Salmon, canned and smoked, is also a good buy.
Bargaining Argentina does not have a bargaining culture; prices are fixed. In Chile, shops generally have fixed prices. In places other than shops (like markets), you may be able to bargain. If this is your first experience at bargaining, don’t worry—you’ll quickly find your own style. Your opening offer should be well under the asking price. The only rule is that, if you make an offer, you should be prepared to buy at that price. And remember, whatever price you pay is okay, as long as the item is worth that price to you.
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U.S. Customs Regulations and Shipping Charges For all things related to U.S. Customs, the ultimate authority is the U.S. Bureau of Customs & Border Protection. Their website, www.cbp.gov has the answers to the most frequently asked questions. Or you can call them at 1-877-227-5511.
The top three points to know are: • At time of writing, your personal duty-free allowance is $800 for items brought with you. Items totaling more than $800 are subject to duty fees. • Items shipped home are always subject to duty when received in the U.S . Even when the shop has offered to include shipping and duties in the price, this typically means shipping to the nearest customs facility and payment of the export duties—not door-to-door shipping or payment of the import duties. All additional duties or shipping charges would be your responsibility. Unless an item is small enough to send by parcel service (like FedEx), chances are you will need arrange shipping or pick-up once the item is in the U.S. and will need to pay customs duties. • It is illegal to import products made from endangered animal species. U.S. Customs & Border Protection will seize these items, as well as most furs, coral, tortoise shell, reptile skins, feathers, plants, and items made from animal skins.
If You Have a Problem with a Purchase The best way to address a problem with a purchase is to not have one in the first place! So don’t forget to examine merchandise before paying for it, check contracts or agreements before signing, and review your receipt before leaving the shop. For major purchases, don’t hesitate to ask in advance about the return policy—local practice may vary from U.S. standards, so don’t assume that you have a certain number of days after the purchase to speak up.
But what if you do discover an issue with an item later on? In that case, your best recourse is to contact the vendor directly. For this reason we recommend that you keep a copy of all your receipts, invoices, or contracts, along with the shop’s contact information. Expect that any resolution will take longer than it would in the U.S. due to delays in communication, the complexities of international shipping/customs duties, and even cultural differences in how business is conducted.
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4. A Word About the Weather
Climate by Location South of the equator, the seasons are the reverse of those in the northern hemisphere; the warmest months are between October and March, and the coldest are between April and September. However, because of the range of latitudes that South America covers, and because of the great variations in altitudes and climatic zones, there are several different types of weather within each country. Still, there is one generalization that does apply to the entire continent: winters in South America lack the harshness of those in North America.
Argentina • Buenos Aires: While the official high temperatures in summer (December through February) are usually in the 80s, with the humidity it often feels much hotter. It is common to think it is actually in the 90s, so be prepared. The changeable spring and mild fall of Buenos Aires are similar to those seasons in New York City, but the proximity of the South Atlantic makes winter temperatures milder than New York's comparable months and the possibility of snow almost nonexistent. You might experience some rain at almost any time of the year, as there is no true rainy season. The almost-constant breezes during all seasons except summer refresh this city’s air and renew its skies.
• Patagonia, Argentina: The weather in Patagonia is extremely unpredictable. Over the course of any given day, the weather can change several times. Temperatures tend to vary throughout Patagonia, regardless of the time of year. However, we can say that it is usually cool or cold and that the wind chill generally makes it feel even cooler. There is a constant wind in Patagonia. These winds can change from a gentle breeze to gusts of over 80 miles per hour in minutes. The average rainfall is 12 inches annually, most of it during the winter months. Waterproof clothing is essential, as it will likely rain during your visit.
• TIP: Forecasting throughout Patagonia tends to be difficult, so be prepared for anything; you might experience all four seasons in one day, or even in a few hours!
• Bariloche : Because of Bariloche’s altitude, expect generally cooler temperatures, with dramatic drops from day to night. It rains variably all year, especially between March-October.
• Calafate : Calafate is located 200m above sea level and on the shores of Lake Argentino. In summer the weather is dry, sunny, cool and very windy. The average temperature is in the mid 60s, but it can reach a maximum of 86ºF and a minimum of 50ºF; winds are very common and on occasion, can reach gusts of over 75 miles per hour.
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Chile • Punta Arenas, Chile: Similar to the rest of the towns in this region, Punta Arenas has a cold steppe climate. The average summer temperatures are in the mid 50s and the average winter temperatures are in the mid 30s. The seasonal temperature in Punta Arenas is greatly moderated by its proximity to the ocean. This is not to say that it is known for stable constant temperatures, only small variability with season. Punta Arenas is also quite dry, with only 1.7 inches of rain in its wettest month of May. The city is also known for its strong winds, up to 80 mph. Winds tend to be strongest during the summer.
• Chiloe, Chile: This area is consistently rainy throughout the year.
Optional Extensions • Easter Island, Chile: The cool Humboldt current keeps this sub-tropical climate cooler than most of its kind. The annual average temperature is 70°. February is hottest; July and August coolest, with winds adding a chill. Some amount of rain falls 140 days a year, though much of it falls at night. The heaviest months for rain are March-June. August-December are the driest months.
• Iguassu Falls, Argentina and Brazil: If you are taking the optional trip extension to Iguassu Falls, you travel to a part of Argentina that has a humid subtropical climate. Temperatures are hot year-round (and sometimes feel hotter than they really are because of the humidity). Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year. The average humidity most mornings is more than 90%, but the humidity is less in the afternoon.
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Climate Charts The following charts reflect the average climate as opposed to weather conditions. This means they serve only as general indicators of what can reasonably be expected. As your departure approaches you may wish to monitor current weather conditions online. Here is the official data from the weather observation stations closest to our destinations:
MONTH BUENOS AIRES, Argentina PUNTA ARENAS, Chile Temp. % Relative Monthly Temp. % Relative Monthly High-Low Humidity Rainfall High-Low Humidity Rainfall (am-pm) (inches) (am-pm) (inches) JAN 87-69 86-47 4.2 57-45 74-61 1.4 FEB 84-67 89-52 4.0 57-45 77-61 1.1 MAR 80-63 90-54 4.0 54-42 82-66 1.6 APR 73-57 91-59 3.3 49-38 85-73 1.6 MAY 67-51 89-60 3.1 44-35 88-83 1.7 JUN 60-46 89-62 2.1 39-32 87-84 1.3 JUL 59-45 89-62 2.3 38-31 86-82 1.3 AUG 63-48 88-57 2.3 41-32 86-77 1.3 SEP 66-50 87-53 2.4 46-35 84-69 1.1 OCT 73-55 88-56 4.0 50-38 78-63 0.9 NOV 78-61 86-53 3.6 53-40 73-61 1.1 DEC 83-66 86-48 3.3 56-43 74-61 1.2
MONTH EASTER ISLAND, Chile (optional pre-trip extension) Temp. % Relative Monthly High-Low Humidity Rainfall (am-pm) (inches) JAN 78-70 87-70 3.6 FEB 79-71 88-71 3.4 MAR 78-70 88-71 3.4 APR 76-68 86-73 4.6 MAY 73-66 84-74 5.0 JUN 70-64 84-73 4.0 JUL 69-62 84-73 3.7 AUG 68-62 84-73 3.4 SEP 70-62 85-72 3.3 OCT 71-62 86-70 2.9 NOV 73-65 87-70 3.2 DEC 76-67 87-70 3.6
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MONTH IGUASSU FALLS, Argentina/Brazil (optional post-trip extension) Temp. % Relative Monthly High/Low Humidity Rainfall (am-pm) (inches) JAN 89-69 92-58 6.8 FEB 88-68 94-59 6.8 MAR 87-66 94-59 4.5 APR 81-62 94-61 7.9 MAY 75-56 96-63 7.3 JUN 69-51 96-66 6.1 JUL 72-51 93-61 5.2 AUG 75-54 93-60 4.9 SEP 78-56 91-57 5.4 OCT 83-61 91-57 7.2 NOV 86-64 92-57 8.2 DEC 89-67 92-55 5.3
Online Forecast Monthly temperature averages for the countries you will be visiting, plus a current 10-day forecast, are available online through the My Account feature of our website www.oattravel.com/MyAccount .
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5. Packing Just What You Need Your Luggage & Locks
Luggage Suggestions
Checked Luggage One duffle bag or suitcase. Due to space limitations on our motor coaches, you are allowed one piece of checked luggage per person. Look for one with heavy nylon fabric, wrap-around handles, built-in wheels, and a heavy-duty lockable zipper. Please do not bring a rigid (plastic shell) suitcase.
Carry-on Bag You are allowed one carry-on bag per person. We suggest a tote or small backpack that can be used as both a carry-on bag for your flight and to carry your daily necessities—water bottle, camera, etc—during driving excursions and walking trips. Consider a backpack or waistpack that keeps both hands free and distributes the pack’s weight onto your back or hips.
TIP : Consider bringing a second, empty, lockable bag folded into your main suitcase, with a luggage tag and small lock. Use this to carry souvenirs home. Also, when traveling with a companion we recommend “cross-packing,” i.e., pack 2 outfits of your clothing in your companion’s luggage and vice-versa, in case one bag is delayed.
Locks To reduce the risk of damage to your luggage, either do not lock your bags when checking in for flights that originate in the U.S. or use TSA-approved locks. (These are locks that TSA screeners can open and relock with a special tool, avoiding damage to your luggage or lock if a physical inspection is required. Look for the words “TSA” or “TSA-approved” on the lock’s packaging.)
Outside of the U.S., we strongly recommend that you lock your luggage as a preventative measure against theft.
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LUGGAGE LIMITATIONS
Number of Type of Luggage Weight Special Size Restrictions? Pieces Restrictions Main trip One checked Duffle bag or soft- Checked Standard airline size: checked only bag and one sided suitcase. Please luggage: luggage should not exceed 62 carry-on per do not bring a hard- 50 lbs total linear inches (length+ width + person sided (clamshell) Carry-on: depth) and carry-on should not suitcase. 17 lbs total exceed 45 linear inches
*See note below Pre- and Same Same Same Same post-trip extensions Remarks and Suggestions *On some departures our regional flights must be moved to Aerolineas Argentinas airlines, which means that the weight of your checked bag is restricted to 33 pounds (your carry-on is restricted to 11 pounds). Please refer to your air itinerary to determine if this restriction applies to you.
The “Dirty Harry” luggage rule: The limits in the chart above are based on the airlines’ published restrictions. The enforcement of luggage limits is a matter of airline corporate policy. It may not be consistent in all situations and may include random spot checks, especially for carry-on luggage. Airline penalties and fines, however, will probably be immediate when and if enforcement occurs. Before you choose to go above the airline’s published restrictions, you should first ask: Do I feel lucky? (And if the answer is yes, then you should accept that you might be charged a fee by the airlines.)
Remember, these limits can change. If the airline(s) notifies us of any changes, we will include an update in your Final Documents booklet. You should also confirm both luggage restrictions and luggage fees directly with your U.S./international airline a week or so before your departure . Doing so will keep you up-to-date on any last-minute changes, new security measures, or new fees. Most airlines are now charging fees for checked luggage, even on some international flights. These fees are not included in your trip price; they are payable directly to the airlines. For your convenience, we maintain a list of the toll-free numbers for the most common airlines on our website under the FAQ section.
ACA.ACZ.ACT 16 07/06/16 21 Packing Just What You Need Clothing Suggestions
Functional Tips As you will experience a wide range of temperatures and weather conditions, we suggest several layers of clothing. You'll want fairly good-quality rain gear for the Iguassu extension. If you like to hand-wash your clothes, look for fabrics that will dry out overnight. You can buy clothing designed especially for travel, with features like wrinkle-resistant fabric or built-in sun protection.
• At the tip of South America: Outdoor clothes that you can wear in layers are recommended for traveling around the tip of the continent: turtlenecks, long-sleeve shirts, sweatshirts, sweaters, a warm jacket, silk long underwear, etc. You can add or remove layers according to weather shifts. Because mist and unpredictable rain occur year-round in the Patagonia region, we strongly suggest you bring a sturdy waterproof shell or jacket (this will also keep you comfortable on windy days), waterproof pants, waterproof shoes, and a rain hat or folding umbrella.
• Warm clothing: We suggest a warm sweater, a windproof jacket, gloves, and a hat for your time in Patagonia (Bariloche, Calafate and Paine). These mountainous areas are cool year- round, and it has been known to snow at the higher elevations even in summer.
• Walking shoes: You’ll be on your feet and walking a lot, so choose your footwear carefully. You can find especially supportive shoes designed for walking. Light hiking boots might be useful on some days.
• Hiking sticks/Trekking poles: Many past travelers have recommended bringing a folding hiking stick (sometimes called a trekking pole) sold in most camping stores. An alternative is a folding ski pole.
• Rain gear: You’ll want good, light rain gear all year round. Weather in Patagonia is very unpredictable, so you’ll want rain gear you are comfortable in, and dry footwear, such as light hiking boots with a built-in Gore-Tex liner. Our regional office recommends bringing a waterproof jacket and waterproof trousers.
Style Hints Dress on our trip is functional and casual. Women might want to bring one casual dress and a pair of dressier sandals.
ACA.ACZ.ACT 16 07/06/16 22 Packing Just What You Need Traveler’s Checklists Did you know that the top two comments travelers have about packing are “I wish I had brought less” and “I wish I had thought to double-check the weather”? In an effort to help you bring less, we offer these lists, which have been compiled from suggestions by Trip Leaders and former travelers. The lists are only jumping-off points—they offer recommendations based on experience, but not requirements. You might also want to refer to the climate charts in this handbook or online weather forecasts before you pack. And finally, remember the Golden Rule of Packing Light—whatever you think you need at first—take half the clothes and twice the money.
Recommended Clothing Checklist ß Shirts: A mix of short and long-sleeved shirts in a breathable fabric, like cotton or cotton-blend. Polo shirts are more versatile than T-shirts. Sleeveless shirts are socially acceptable, but might not be as useful as you think; the weather in Argentina and Chile is often cooler than Americans expect. Check the climate charts on previous pages for more details. Travelers to Iguassu Falls will want shirts that are comfortable for humid weather. ß Trousers and/or jean: Comfortable and loose fitting is best. Or regional office recommends bringing at least one pair of waterproof trousers. ß Walking shorts: Shorts may be more useful for travelers on the Iguassu Falls extension. ß Shoes and socks: Shoes should be comfortable walking or running shoes with arch support and (for Patagonia) waterproof or water-repellent. You can find especially supportive shoes designed for walking. Light hiking boots might be useful on some days, but are not required. You’ll want at least a couple pairs of heavier socks for active days or hiking (they’ll protect your feet from blisters). If you are taking the optional extension to Iguassu Falls, you may want to bring a pair of sneakers that you don’t mind disposing of after the tour as the soil in the jungle tends to leave stains. ß Light wool or fleece sweater: Even in the summer this can be useful as motorcoach air conditioning can be chilly. ß Light rain jacket/windbreaker with hood: Some sort of rain gear is useful year-round; weather in Patagonia is very unpredictable. Or regional office recommends bringing a waterproof jacket. ß Polartec fleece jacket, especially for April-September departures. Even in summer, Patagonia can be cool, especially in the mountains. ß Wide-brim sun hat or visor for sun protection. ß Underwear and sleepwear ß Optional: Swimsuit – In case a hotel has a pool. There may also be a chance for some swimming during the optional extensions to Easter Island and Iguassu Falls, depending on the weather.
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Seasonal Clothing Checklist April-September departures: ß Gear for cold weather: The seasons are reversed south of the equator. (Our spring and summer is their fall and winter.) In some places on the itinerary, the nighttime low dips to the 30s, so winter gear like a sweater, warm coat, hat, gloves, scarf, etc is a must.
Other Essential Items ß Daily essentials: toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, hairbrush or comb, shaving items, deodorant, etc. Hotels will provide soap and shampoo. ß Wash cloth ß Spare eyeglasses/contact lenses ß Sunglasses, 100% UV block ß Sunscreen, SPF 30 or stronger. ß Insect repellent with DEET (30-35% strength). Some previous travelers have mentioned that this is more useful on the extensions then on the main trip. ß Travel money bag or money belt ß Cold-water hand-wash laundry soap such as Woolite and plastic hang-up clothespins ß Light folding umbrella ß Moisturizer and sun-blocking lip balm ß Packets of pocket-size tissues or small roll of toilet paper ß Moist towelettes and/or anti-bacterial "water-free" hand cleanser ß Flashlight or headlamp, extra batteries/bulb ß Electrical converter & plug adapter: see "A Word about Electricity" for details ß Ziploc bags to protect camera/clothing from humidity or rain. ß Camera gear with extra batteries or battery charger
Medicines & First Aid Gear ß Your own prescription medicines ß Travel first aid kit: Band-Aids, headache and pain relief, laxatives and anti-diarrhea tablets, something for upset stomach. Maybe a cold remedy, moleskin foot pads, antibiotic cream, or allergy medication. ß An antibiotic medication for gastrointestinal illness ß Optional: A strong prescription pain medication for rare emergency purposes
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Optional Gear (These are items that other travelers have suggested might be useful, depending on your needs. The extra spaces at the end are for you to add whatever you don’t want to forget.) ß Travel alarm or travel watch with alarm ß Lightweight binoculars (if birding) ß Folding walking stick, sold in most camping stores. For the post-trip extension this should be rubber- tipped; it will give you more traction. ß Hanging toiletry bag (with hook to hang on doorknob and pockets to organize items) ß Basic sewing kit ß Hair dryer. Bring this only if you feel you need one 100% of the time. One will be available at most hotels during this trip. ß Reading materials ß Home address book ß Photos or postcards from home, small gift for home-hosted visit ß Phrase book ß Pocket-size calculator for exchange rates ß Inflatable seat cushion for bumpy roads ß Travel journal/note pad and pens ß ______ß ______ß ______ß ______
ACA.ACZ.ACT 16 07/06/16 25 Packing Just What You Need A Word About Electricity When traveling overseas, there are a few differences to keep in mind about electricity. First, the voltage is usually different. Second, the plugs might not be the same shape. Lastly, the availability of power can vary.
Voltage Electricity in Argentina, Chile, and Brazil is 220 volts. In the U.S. it is 110 volts. Most of the things a traveler will want to plug in—battery chargers, MP3 players, tablets or computers—can run off both 110 and 220. But you should check the item or the owner’s guide first to confirm this before you plug it in. If you have something that needs 110 volts—like a shaver or a hairdryer—you can bring a transformer to change the current. (But transformers tend to burn out, so it might be better to leave whatever it is at home.)
Plugs The shape of plugs will vary from country to country, and sometimes even within a country depending on when that building was built. Different plug shapes are named by letters of the alphabet—Type A, Type B, and so on. Standard U.S. plugs are Type A and Type B. Here is the list of plugs for the countries on this trip:
• Chile : C and L • Argentina : I
To plug something from the U.S. into a C or I socket you’ll need an adaptor that fits between the plug and the socket. Even though you’ll only need Type C and Type I plug adapters on this trip, it may be a good idea to invest in an all-in-one, universal adapter/converter combo. Versatile and lightweight, this item will ensure that you are prepared for your current trip as well as future adventures. You can usually find them at your local electronics goods or hardware stores. Sometimes you can buy them at large retailers too, like Target or Walmart. If you forget to bring an adapter, you might also find them for sale at the airport when you arrive at your destination.
Availability Barring the occasional and unpredictable power outage, electricity is as readily available on this adventure as it is in the U.S.
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6. Learn About Your Destinations We encourage you to learn about Chile and Argentina before your trip. The ancient and contemporary cultures of these areas are rich and complex. Even a small amount of background reading can help you make sense of the kaleidoscope of facts and impressions that will come your way. Having some knowledge in advance can complement and enrich what you can learn from your expert Trip Leader. Argentina at a Glance
Facts & Figures • Area: 1,073,520 square miles • Capital: Buenos Aires • Languages: Spanish is the official language. • Ethnicity: White (mostly Spanish and Italian) 97%, Mestizo (mixed white and Amerindian ancestry), Amerindian, or other non-white groups 3% • Location: Argentina is bordered by Bolivia, Paraguay, Chile, Brazil, Uruguay, and Chile • Geography: Located in the South and West Hemisphere, Argentina features a diverse landscape ranging from the ice fields of Patagonia to the fertile pampas to the Andes Mountains. • Population : 43,024,374 (2014 estimate) • Religions: Roman Catholic 92%, Protestant 2%, Jewish 2%, other 4%. • Time Zone: Argentina time (ART) is 2 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time (EST). From November to March, when it is 6am in Washington D.C., it is 8am in Buenos Aires. From April to October, adjusting for Daylight Savings Time, the difference is one hour. Note that Argentina sometimes observes DST, but hasn’t done so since 2009.
Historical Overview Little is known about societies that occupied prehistoric Argentina, though fossil records indicate a presence here as early as 11,000 B.C., in today’s Patagonia. Millennia later, as the first settled cultures formed in South America, the Inca took an interest in Argentina, conquering the northwestern region and incorporating it into their empire. Central and southern Argentina remained nomadic.
European explorers arrived in the early 1500s, and Spain established Buenos Aires as a colony in 1580. Spanish immigrants and their descendants, indigenous people, and descendants of slaves developed the area over the next 200 years. Many colonists settled in Buenos Aires while others took to the surrounding pampas to live as gauchos . The Viceroyalty of the Rio de la Plata, consisting of today’s Argentina and several surrounding countries, was created in 1776.
After two failed attempts by the British to overtake Buenos Aires in the early 1800s, word arrived that Napoleon had overthrown the Spanish king. This prompted a push for independence and the country’s first assembly was formed. A formal declaration of independence was signed in 1816. Four years later, the viceroy and his armies were defeated. Bolivia and Uruguay broke off from Argentina during this period (Paraguay had seceded in 1811).
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Investment and immigration after 1870 bolstered Argentina’s economic strength, industry, and agriculture. Through 1929, both its population and its economy grew at an alarming rate, but often to the detriment of the working class. Juan Perón, who was elected president in 1946, recognized this and sought to empower workers, increase union membership, and expand social and educational programs. His first lady, Eva Perón, became a staunch supporter of the working class. Her Eva Perón Foundation provided basic needs to the poor and built schools, orphanages, and hospitals throughout Argentina. She died at the young age of 33, a national heroine. President Perón, having been pressured to increase industry more than support its workers, was overthrown in a violent coup in 1955.
Perón returned to office in 1973 after he wielded his influence from afar to encourage student and labor protests against an increasingly oppressive regime. But his next term was short-lived; he died in 1974, leaving his third wife, Isabel (also his vice president), to take his place. However, she was loyal to Perón’s more fascist advisors, which led to social unrest and financial chaos. She was deposed by a military coup.
But what followed was far from an improvement. From 1976 to 1983, a series of military leaders ruled the country under a program officially known as the “National Reorganization Process”. Unofficially, this time is often referred to as the “Dirty War”. (Although for some historians, that term also covers the human rights violations started under Perón). Opposition and left-leaning groups were oppressed. Many dissidents disappeared, as did ordinary citizens who were suspected of having ties to dissidents. A policy of wage-freezing was frequently put in place. Living standards plummeted, foreign debt soared, and the peso collapsed. Finally, when Argentina lost the Falklands War (in Spanish, the Guerra de las Malvinas ) to the British in 1982, the military’s credibility languished, leading to the next free elections.
It took Argentina 20 years and seven presidents to dig out of this dire economic and social instability. Administrations through the ‘80s and ‘90s were marred by corruption, the freezing of bank accounts, violent protests, and political infighting. In late 2001, the country saw three different presidents over a two-week period. Trust in the government was low.
Things turned around in late 2002, and the economy has been growing since, largely under the presidency of Néstor Kirchner, a Peronist. In 2007, he forfeited the office to his wife Cristina Fernández de Kirchner. Her stated objectives included the reduction of inflation, and to that end new tariffs on agricultural exports were introduced in March of 2008. But the tariffs proved to be widely unpopular, and provoked a 129-day strike by farmers and agricultural unions. Eventually the tariffs were defeated in the legislature. With Néstor Kirchner’s passing in October 2010, public opinion increasingly supported his widow, Cristina, and her efforts to reduce the national debt.
Other recent controversies in Argentine politics have included the mounting tension over the possible oil reserves under the Falkland Islands, which have rekindled the debate on whether the islands should belong to Argentina or Great Britain. There have also been a number of recent high-profile trials and convictions of leaders from the 1976-1983 military government for crimes against humanity.
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Chile at a Glance
Facts & Figures • Area: 291,933 square miles • Capital: Santiago • Languages: Spanish is the official language; Mapudungun is also spoken. • Ethnicity: White and white-Amerindian 88.9%, Mapuche 9.1%, Aymara 0.7%, other indigenous groups (including Aymara & Rapanui) 1.3% • Location: Chile is bordered by the Pacific Ocean, Argentina, and Peru. • Geography: One third of Chile is covered by the Andes. Five distinct geographical regions make up the country: the Northern Desert, the Central Valley, the Lake District, Patagonia in the south, and remote Easter Island 2,400 miles offshore in the Pacific. • Population: 17,363,894 (2014 estimate) • Religions: Roman Catholic 66.7%, Evangelical 16.4%, Jehovah's Witness 1%, other 3.4%, none 11.5%, unspecified 1% • Time Zone: From roughly mid-September to mid-April, (the dates vary yearly), Chile is on Chile Summer Time (CLST), two hours ahead of U.S. Eastern Standard Time (EST). When it is 6am in Washington D.C., it is 8am in Santiago. The rest of the year, Chile is on Chile Standard Time (CLT), 1 hour ahead of EST, and the same time as Eastern Daylight Time (EDT). When it is 6am in Washington D.C., it is 6am in Santiago. Chile’s seasons are opposite those in the U.S., so as we start daylight saving time, Chile ends it.
Historical Overview Evidence shows that Native Americans moved into Chile’s fertile valleys between the Andes and the Pacific 10,000 years ago. The Incas briefly settled in the north, but found the desert climate too harsh. Ferdinand Magellan arrived on southern Chilean shores in 1520 by way of the strait that was later named for him. In 1535, Spanish conquistadores moved in from Peru in search of gold, led by Diego de Almagro. But hundreds of thousands of indigenous people kept them at bay. Just five years later, with support of more Spanish troops, the conquest of Chile began. Francisco Pizarro’s lieutenant, Pedro de Valdivia, made his capital at Santiago and claimed the region under the Viceroyalty of Peru.
Conquest continued in fits and starts. For more than 100 years, native Mapuche people from the central valleys resisted the colonial front coming from the north, successfully pushing the Spanish border back several times. With the Mapuche to the south, the Andes to the east, the desert to the north, and the Pacific to the west, the Spanish colony became an isolated frontier, self-sustaining and homogenized. Soon, the Mapuche were not their only concern; the Dutch and English moved in from the ocean, including Sir Francis Drake, who raided Valparaiso in 1578. But the invaders were up against the most militarized Spanish colony on the new continent.
In 1808, when Napoleon took Spain and placed his brother on the throne, colonists began talking of independence from Spain. Diplomatic and military struggles followed for the next ten years until Bernard O’Higgins and Jose de San Martin crossed the Andes with their troops and defeated the royalists. Chile declared its independence in 1818 under the leadership of O’Higgins.
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Through the rest of the century, Chile launched an aggressive campaign against the Mapuche to push its border south. To the north, the War of the Pacific earned Chile the Atacama Desert and beyond, stripping Bolivia of its access to the ocean and enriching the economy with profits from newly won nitrate and copper mines. The Chilean Civil War of 1891 drove a wedge between industrialists and bankers and Chile’s government evolved into an oligarchy. By the 1920s, the growing working class was large enough to elect a reformist president, but a conservative Congress frustrated his efforts to achieve real change.
By 1970, after decades marked by exchanges of power between liberals and conservatives, Chile was looking at many social and economic reforms. And with the election of Salvador Allende, a member of Chile’s Socialist Party and uncle to famed Chilean-American novelist Isabel Allende, many of them began to take shape. But it wasn’t enough to raise the country out of a depression, or to quell mounting inflation. International support was also hard to come by, since Allende was moving to nationalize all foreign-owned companies that operated in Chile, including those owned by the U.S. A military coup overthrew him—and Augusto Pinochet stepped in. Allende took his own life.
So began 17 years of darkness for Chile. Pinochet’s dictatorship was one of the bloodiest of the 20th century, marked by killing, torture, and other human rights violations. More than 3,000 people died or went missing. Chile eventually rid itself of the Pinochet regime by electing a new president in 1989. In 2006, Michelle Bachelet Jeria was elected President, becoming the first woman to hold Chile’s highest office. Her policies, which included pursuing free trade agreements with other countries, helped Chile reach another first—in 2010 Chile became the first South American member of the OECD (Organization of Economic Co-operation and Development). Despite record high approval ratings President Jeria stepped down at the end of her term in March 2010 because the Chilean constitution forbids the immediate re-election of a president. She was succeeded in office by Sebastian Pinera.
The first order of President Pinera’s administration was the recuperation from a large earthquake that occurred of the coast on February 27, 2010. Fortunately, Chile has used knowledge gained from previous events towards earthquake preparedness. In stark contrast with Haiti, which was also hit with an earthquake in the beginning of 2010, the preparation paid off with a very low casualty rate and a very high rate of economic recovery.
Yet just as Chile was getting back on its feet, a mining accident in August of 2010 brought international attention back to the normally quiet country. A cave-in at the San Jose mine in the Atacama Desert left 33 miners trapped underground for a record 69 days. It is estimated that nearly one billion people worldwide tuned in for the daring and successful rescue operation, which was televised live around the globe.
Recent events in Chile have centered on the economy, education, and equal rights. In 2011, two large demonstrations (trade unions in May, students in July) caught the public attention, as did the passing of a landmark anti-discrimination law in 2012.
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Easter Island at a Glance—optional extension
Facts & Figures • Capital: Hanga Roa • Population: 5,761 (The most recent census was in 2012.) • Ethnic groups: Rapa Nui 60%, Chilean 39%, Amerindian 1% • Languages: Spanish, Rapa Nui • Time zone: Easter Island, despite its remote location, is 2 hours behind Eastern Time. When it is noon in Washington D.C., it is 10:00 am on Easter Island.
Historical Overview Dutch explorer Jacob Roggeveen discovered Easter Island in 1722 on Easter Sunday. It is one of the most remote inhabited islands in the world—2,237 miles west of South America and 1,290 miles east of the Pitcairn Islands. Chileans know it as Isla de Pascua and Polynesians call it Rapa Nui, or Big Rapa.
Because of famines, epidemics, and slave raids, there is limited self-recorded history. Even oral history is sparse, since the population has been so erratic, dropping down as low as 111 in the 1870s. What we do know about the history of this tiny parcel of land in the middle of the Pacific was gleaned from occasional visits by explorers in the 18th and 19th centuries. And their journals, married with more modern research, suggest a rich and sometimes horrifying history—especially for an island of only 63 square miles.
The latest archaeological findings suggest that its first inhabitants arrived as late as A.D. 1200. And in 1722 Roggeveen estimated a population of between 2,000 and 3,000 Rapanui. A pair of Spanish ships arrived in 1770 and reported a shore lined with massive, monolithic statues of human heads (today known as moai , researchers have chronicled 887 of them). Four years later, British explorer James Cook noticed that the statues were in a state of neglect, some of them fallen. Interestingly, another British ship landed in 1825 and reported seeing no statues at all. Archaeologists believe the statues had become targets of huri mo’ai , or statue toppling, as part of an island civil war.
Throughout the 1800s, islanders had become hostile toward visitors, so there were few landings. But in the 1860s, one landing nearly wiped them out. Peruvian slave raiders sailed from the mainland and violently abducted villagers. About 1,500 were taken away or killed, half of their population. Those who returned from their mainland nightmare—only about a dozen—brought smallpox, which decreased their number further. Clan wars began over the land of the deceased. The first Christian missionary brought tuberculosis in 1867. Jean-Baptiste Dutrou-Bornier, a murderous French opportunist who wanted to transform the island into a massive sheep farm, absconded to Tahiti with about 200 Rapanui. And the remaining missionaries relocated all but 171 to the Gambier Islands. It took just six years for the population to dwindle to 111. And with it, much of the islanders’ cultural knowledge had been lost.
Easter Island was annexed by Chile in 1888. Locals were confined to the main town of Hanga Roa so that Chile could lease the rest of the island to a Scottish sheep-farming company. From 1953-1966, the Chilean navy managed the island, at which point the Rapanui were granted full citizenship.
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Culture & Points to Know The Nature of Travel in South America This is an adventure travel trip, and part of the adventure is the possibility that things may change. Local influences may make it impossible for us to follow the planned trip itinerary exactly and the sequence of sites visited may change. Rest assured that we have considerable experience at responding to changing circumstances on the spot. Our goal is always to offer you the best adventure travel experience and the most memorable explorations of this intriguing land.
Cuisine Dining is part of the cultural experience, especially in Argentina and Chile, where European influences have combined with local ingredients to create unique favors. Table manners are closer to the more formal European style, and like Europeans, Chileans and Argentines tend to dine much later than Americans—dinner is no earlier than 7:30pm and usually closer to 9pm! Yet the influence of local produce and meats cannot be ignored, especially the pervasiveness of beef and lamb in Argentina. Vegetarianism has never really caught on here, so options will be limited.
Beef and lamb have taken over Argentina to such an extent that roughly one half of all Argentine land is used towards cattle or sheep raising. Restaurant menus everywhere in the country feature some type of beef and/or lamb selection. At-home diners, too, often have beef as the main staple of their diet.
Some typical dishes you may see on menus in Argentina are: asado (a mixed grill of meat cooked over coals and usually served with chimichurri marinade), chorizo (pork sausage), empanadas (snack-sized pastries with meat or cheese or vegetables inside), and carbonada (beef stew with rice, potatoes, sweet potatoes, corn, squash, and sometimes fruit). The influence of Argentina’s Italian immigrants is apparent in dishes like noquis (gnocchi), pizzas, and deserts with dulce de leche (caramel sauce).
In Chile, cuisine tends toward international sophistication. Santiago, for instance, is filled with French, Chinese, Italian, and Spanish restaurants. In addition, the long coastline has lead to a wide variety of seafood options such as abalone, shrimp, crab, lobster, and oysters. Some other typical dishes you might want try include: pastel de choclo (ground corn and meat, chopped hard-boiled egg, and vegetables backed in an oven), charquican (ground meat, garlic, onions, potatoes, and pumpkin mashed together), milcaos (like potato pancakes, but sometimes baked instead of fried), and sopaipilla (a fried bread made from flour and pumpkin).
In recent years wines from both countries have become increasingly popular in the U.S., and both countries have their specialties. In Chile Sauvignon Blanc and spicy reds dominate; in Argentina floral whites and Malbec reds are popular.
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Language Barrier You can have some great ‘conversations’ with local people who do not speak English, even if you don’t speak a word of the local language. Indeed, this non-verbal communication can be a highly rewarding part of travel. To break the ice, bring along some family photographs, or a few postcards of your hometown. If you want to meet kids, bring a puppet or other interactive toy. Your Trip Leader can help get the ball rolling.
Taking Photographs The etiquette of photographing most people in the countries on your itinerary is about the same as it would be on the streets of your hometown. You need permission to take a close-up, but not for a crowd scene. Be especially polite if you want to photograph an older woman. If you want to shoot a great portrait, show interest in your subject, try to have a bit of social interaction first. Then use sign language to inquire if a picture is OK. Your Trip Leader can help.
Safety & Security Common Sense and Awareness As you travel, exercise the same caution and awareness that you would in a large American city. Don’t be overly nervous or suspicious, but keep your eyes open. If you are venturing out after dark, go with one or two other people, and always by taxi.
Pickpockets Buenos Aries is a big city and one of the most visited places in South America, and like any other big city or tourist destination, pickpockets will sometimes target travelers. Fortunately, there are a few easy steps you can take to minimize your exposure. The first step is to avoid attracting attention. Don’t wear fancy jewelry or expensive watches in the street (or even cheaper items that look expensive).
The next step is to limit what you have on you. Instead of carrying all your money, all your credit cards, and your passport in your pocket or purse, stick to what you’ll need for that day—a one-day supply of money and one or two cards. Or if you prefer to carry your valuables on you, use a neck wallet or money belt under your shirt to hold what you don’t need that day. Replenish your pocket supply when you are in a safe and quiet place, at the hotel, or in our vehicle. Don't leave valuables out and unattended in your hotel room. Every hotel will offer use of a hotel safe at the front desk or an electronic in-room safe; please use them.
TIP : Our regional office recommends that you leave your passport in the room safe or hotel safe, and that you carry a photocopy instead when you are out and about in Argentina and Chile.
Lastly, know that pickpockets may create a sudden distraction. In any sort of puzzling street situation, try to keep one hand on your valuables. If an encounter with a local turns out to be long and complicated and involves money or your valuables, it might be a scam.
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Communications To ensure you are available during your trip to friends and relatives at home, you will receive two copies of your hotel list, including phone numbers, with your Final Documents. One copy is for you to bring, and one to leave behind with friends or relatives in case they need to contact you during the trip.
How to Dial When calling overseas from the U.S., dial 011 for international exchange, then the country code (indicated by a plus sign: +), and then the number. The country codes on this trip are: +54 for Argentina and +56 for Chile . Phone numbers abroad may not have the same number of digits as U.S. numbers; even numbers within a country can vary depending on the city and if the phone is a land line or cell phone.
Cell Phones If you want to use your cell phone on the trip, check with your phone provider to see if your phone and service will work outside of the U.S. It may turn out to be cheaper to rent an international phone or buy a SIM card onsite. If you want to use a local SIM, just make certain your phone can accept one.
Calling Cards and 1-800 Numbers When calling the U.S. from a foreign country, a prepaid calling card can be useful because it circumvents unexpected charges from the hotel. Calling cards purchased locally are typically the best (less expensive, more likely to work with the local phones, etc.).
One reminder: Do not call U.S. 1-800 numbers outside the continental United States. This can result in costly long distance fees, since 1-800 numbers do not work outside the country.
Internet Internet access on this adventure will be mostly limited to computers in the hotel lobby or business center; most hotels in Chile and Argentina do not offer WiFi in the rooms, and the ones that do charge for the service.
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7. Additional Resources Suggested Readings We’ve listed a few of our favorite books about the region you'll be traveling. Most of these are available in large bookshops (especially those that specialize in travel or international books), by mail order, and from the Internet
Argentina : And the Money Kept Rolling In (and Out) by Paul Blustein (Economics/History). An interesting and thought-provoking account of the 2001 collapse of Argentina’s economy.
Argentina, 1516-1987: From Spanish Colonization to Alfonsin by David Rock (History). A thought- provoking history that does much to explain why a country with such potential regressed from a major world power to a developing nation.
Evita: The Real Life of Eva Peron by Nicholas Fraser and Marysa Navarro (Biography) Although written in 1996, this book is still considered to be one of the best-researched and most balanced accounts of the woman behind the myth.
In Patagonia by Bruce Chatwin (Travel Narrative) A masterpiece of travel, history and adventure. This engaging book captures the spirit of the land, history, wildlife, and people of Patagonia.
Natural Patagonia: Natural Argentina & Chile by Marcelo D. Beccaceci. (Field Guide). A natural history guide to Patagonia’s incredible wildlife and plant types. Discusses the area’s geological origins and evolution. Includes abundant photographs.
Night Flight by Antoine de Saint-Exupery (Literature). Follows a pilot alone in a storm over the Andes en route from Punta Arenas to Buenos Aires. In this wonderfully evocative novella by the author of The Little Prince , de Saint-Exupery captures the thrill of early flight and the courage of the pilots.
The Buenos Aires Quintet by Manuel Vazquez Montalban (Mystery). A Spanish detective travels to Buenos Aires to help an uncle find his missing son. Set against the backdrop of Argentina's repressive military junta , the mystery could be personal or political. One of the popular Pepe Carvalho crime series.
The Motorcycle Diaries: Notes on a Latin American Journey by Ernesto “Che” Guevara (Memoir/Travel Narrative). Even world-weary revolutionaries were young and naïve once. This is the true-life story of Che Guevara’s attempt to see South America from the back of an old motorcycle at the age of 23. Later in life, he would claim that it was this journey that started to form his political beliefs.
The Whispering Land by Gerald Durrell (Travel Narrative/Nature). An account of the author’s eight- month odyssey in pursuit of Patagonian wildlife from seals to parrots.
Tierra del Fuego by Francisco Coloane (Short Stories). These nine stories of adventure, exploration, and voyage are peopled with ravenous explorers, fortune hunters, foreign revolutionaries, ill-fated seafarers, intrepid ships’ captains, and ruthless smugglers.
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Chile: By Night in Chile: A Nostalgic Journey Through Chile by Roberto Bolano (Literature). A highly imaginative story that takes place over the course of a single night when a priest, believing himself to be dying, recalls some of the crucial events and personages of his life.
Clandestine in Chile: The Adventures of Miguel Littin by Gabriel Garcia Marquez (Memoir). The true- life story of an exiled Chilean film director who snuck back into the country in 1985 and attempted to film an undercover documentary about life under Pinochet. As told to one of Latin America’s most famous writers.
My Invented Country by Isabel Allende (Memoir/History). Written by an accomplished novelist who is related to Salvadore Allende (the Chilean President assassinated in 1973), this book mixes recent history (the assassination, the 9/11 attacks) with the author’s personal journey as a writer.
Santiago's Children: What I Learned about Life at an Orphanage in Chile by Steve Reifenberg (Memoir) The author recounts his touching experiences as a volunteer at an orphanage in Santiago during the 1980s.
The Dictator’s Shadow: Life Under Augusto Pinochet by Heraldo Munoz (Biography/History). Recounts the many terrifying acts of Chile’s former dictator, his rise to power, and what it took to be rid of him.
The House of the Spirits, Daughter of Fortune, and Portrait in Sepia by Isabel Allende (Literature). Three books by one of Chile’s most famous authors. The House of the Spirits follows the passionate ups and downs of four generations; Portrait in Sepia is a novel about memory and secrets as a woman attempts to trace her family history; and Daughter of Fortune is about a young woman from Chile who follows her heart to the California gold rush.
The Mystery of Easter Island by Katherine Routledge (Anthropology). In 1913, Routledge was among the first British explorers to perform excavations on Easter Island and study the inhabitants. Her book is enlightening for adventure travelers and anyone interested in anthropology.
Travels in a Thin Country: A Journey Through Chile by Sara Wheeler (Travel Narrative). The author recounts her solo, 2,600-mile trip from the top of Chile to its southernmost tip.
Hinchey Report published by the CIA (History/Politics). Although somewhat dry, this report does offer handy—and free—background reading on the role of the CIA in Chile’s politics during the 60s and 70s. The report is sometimes available online. For travelers interested in an opposing view from this report, our regional office suggests seeking out Allende’s Chile, An Insider View by economist Edward Boorstein. The book can be a bit hard to find, and a bit dense to read, but it does offer a unique viewpoint—Boorstein was an economic advisor to Allende.
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Guidebooks: Your Trip Leader will be happy to provide recommendations and suggestions during the trip, so a guidebook is not a necessity. But a good one can be useful as a one-stop reference, so for those travelers who have asked for suggestions, we offer the following information. Since different guidebook series each have their own target audience and structure, it is well worth your time to browse your local library or bookstore to find the one(s) you like best. To get you started, here is some general information on the most popular series:
Culture Smart! – Focuses on local customs and etiquette instead of sights, dining, etc. DK Eyewitness – Innovative visuals make these books easy to use and a nice souvenir once the trip is over. The focus is primarily on the sights and activities. Fodor’s – A classic guidebook with strong information on activities, shopping, and dining. Nice mix of upscale recommendations and budget suggestions. Frommer’s – A comprehensive guide series that is known for its restaurant recommendations. Insight – Offers more information on history and culture than usual, nice visuals, good maps. Lonely Planet – Practical guides geared towards a more adventurous traveler on a budget. National Geographic – From the same company that publishes the magazine. Excellent photographs, good information on history, nature, and culture. Rough Guides –For the independent traveler on a budget. Particularly known for their maps.
Maps: Most city hotels will provide maps free of charge at the reception desk or in your room. These maps are usually sufficient for our travelers, but if you plan on any independent exploration, you may wish to consider purchasing a map before your departure. This can be especially useful in a country that doesn’t use the Roman alphabet as the hotel maps may only be printed in the local language. Some recommended map series include: Rand McNally international maps (especially the StreetWise series), Insight’s FlexiMaps, and Rough Guide’s destination maps. We suggest that you visit your local bookstore or library to get a better sense of which type of map is best for your needs before making a purchase.
ACA.ACZ.ACT 16 07/06/16 37 Additional Resources Suggested Movies Here are few of our favorite movies that are about, or set in, or from the region you’ll be traveling. Most are available at movie rental stores and websites—or even your public library. Sometimes films produced outside of the U.S. may be harder to find, but they are usually available online.
Argentina, Chile, and Brazil: The Battle of Chile directed by Patricio Guzman (1975-1979, color). A three-part documentary series about the 1973 coup d’etat that deposed President Salvador Allende and raised General Augusto Pinochet to power. Unique in that it was filmed over four years in Chile as events were unfolding.
No directed by Pablo Larrain and starring Gael Garcia Bernal (2012, color). Set in the 1980’s and based on an unpublished play by Antonio Skarmeta, this Chilean drama explores the role of advertising tactics in General Augusto Pinochet’s campaign for re-election.
Blessed by Fire starring Pablo Ribba, Gaston Pauls, Cesar Albarracin, and Hugo Carrizo (2005, color) A film about the Falklands War (Malvinas War) and its aftermath, as told from the point of view of an Argentinean soldier looking back at his experiences two decades later. In Spanish with subtitles.
City of God starring Alexandre Rodrigues, Leandro Firmino da Hora, Phellipe Haagensen, and Matheus Nachtergaele (2003, color) The film follows a group of friends from the 1960s through the 80s as they grow up in a Brazilian shantytown ironically named “the City of God”—one becomes a photojournalist, while the other three become criminals. The film deals frankly with violence, drugs, poverty, and other topics that can be hard to watch, but it is considered an instant classic both in Brazil and outside. In Portuguese with English subtitles; the Portuguese title is Cidade de Deus .
Down Argentine Way starring Betty Grable and Don Ameche (1940, color). A light musical about a blossoming romance between an American heiress and an Argentine horse breeder. Features the feisty Carmen Miranda in her first American film.
Evita starring Madonna, Antonio Banderas, and Jonathan Pryce (1996, color). The film version of the famous musical by the powerhouse lyricist/composer team of Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice. Although only loosely based on the real life of Argentina’s first lady, the detailed sets, period costumes, and real-life Argentine locations convey the glamour of Buenos Aires in the 1930s. Travelers interested in documentaries should look for Evita: The Woman Behind the Myth from A&E or Evita (The Documentary) directed by Eduardo Montes-Bradley.
Favela Rising directed by Matt Mochary and Jeff Zimbalist (2005, color) A documentary about the work of Anderson Sa, a reformed drug trafficker who forms a non-profit group called Cultural AfroReggae, which promotes music and education in the favelas (shantytowns) of urban Brazil.
Gilda starring Rita Hayworth, Glenn Ford, and George Macready (1946, B&W). A film noir set in the shadowy underworld of 1940s Buenos Aires with a strange love triangle: the casino kingpin, his lieutenant, and the sultry beauty that they can’t trust. Gilda was the femme fatal role that defined Hayworth’s career and made her a box-office star.
Missing starring Jack Lemmon and Sissy Spacek (1982, color). When an expat writer living in Chile during the 1973 coup goes missing, his wife and father-in-law must navigate complex and dangerous political waters to search for him.
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The Mission starring Robert De Niro, Jeremy Irons, Aidan Quinn (1986, color) This period drama is about the struggles of a group of Jesuits trying to both convert the indigenous tribes who live by Iguassu Falls and temper the bad behavior of the colonists. But then in 1750, everything they have worked for is thrown into disarray when the land their mission stands goes from being Spanish territory to Portuguese.
The Motorcycle Diaries starring Gael Garcia Bernal and Rodrigo de la Serna (2004, color). Follows a 23- year-old Che Guevara and his friend Alberto Granado on a motorcycle journey across South America. An interesting, and effective, combination of biopic, buddy movie, and political commentary.
Notorious starring Cary Grant, Ingrid Bergman, and Claude Rains (1946, B&W) The plot of this tense and suspenseful thriller centers on flushing out Nazi spies in Brazil, but the movie is really about the conflict of loyalty and love. Although most of the action is set in Rio, that’s not central to the story; but even though the film isn’t typically Brazilian, we couldn’t resist the powerhouse stars or the director— Alfred Hitchcock.
The Official Story starring Hecor Alterio, Norma Aleandro, and Chunchuna Villafane (1985, color) As Alicia searches for more information about her adopted daughter’s birth mother, she begins to uncover the history and extent of “the Disappeared”—political prisoners held captive by Argentina’s ruling military government. In Spanish with subtitles.
The Secret in Their Eyes starring Soledad Vilamil and Ricardo Darin (2009, color) Part murder mystery, part love story, this Argentine thriller follows a retired cop who is revisiting a haunting case from the 1970s as source material for his first novel. In Spanish with subtitles.
Teatro starring Vincent Gallo (2009, color). Two brothers reunite in Buenos Aires after one disappeared from his family for ten years. Director Francis Ford Coppola uses the strong visuals and operatic elements that are his hallmarks to dramatic effect.
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Useful Websites Tourist information http://www.turismo.gov.ar Argentina tourism http://www.chile.travel/en.html Chile tourism http://www.visitbrasil.com Brazil tourism
Overseas Adventure Travel Store http://www.oatshop.com
International health information: CDC (Centers for Disease Control) http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel
Electric current and plug types http://www.worldstandards.eu/electricity/plugs-and-sockets
Foreign exchange rates http://www.oanda.com/converter/classic
ATM locators http://www.mastercard.com/atm for Cirrus ATMs http://www.visa.com/atmlocator for PLUS ATMs
Travel books http://www.amazon.com http://www.barnesandnoble.com
World weather http://www.intellicast.com http://www.weather.com http://www.wunderground.com
Foreign languages for travelers: basic terms in more than 80 languages http://www.travlang.com/languages
Travel tips: packing light, choosing luggage, etc. http://www.travelite.org
Net café guide: 100s of locations around the globe http://www.cybercafes.com
U.S. Customs & Border Protection: traveler information http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/travel
Transportation Security Administration (TSA): agency that screens luggage in U.S. http://www.tsa.gov
National Passport Information Center (NPIC): for passport information http://www.travel.state.gov
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