End of the Earth - 14 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What are the main highlights of the "End of the Earth" tour?

  This challenging two-week adventure includes trekking in Los Glaciares and Torres del Paine National Parks, marveling at the Perito Moreno Glacier, visiting Ushuaia (the "End of the Earth"), and savoring the scenery in Patagonia and sophistication in Buenos Aires.

• What kind of accommodation can I expect on this tour?

  The tour includes a mix of hotels (11 nights) and camping (2 nights). Please note that properties with only two stories may not have elevators, requiring you to carry luggage upstairs. For nights 7-8 in Torres del Paine National Park, accommodation arrangements may differ from standard shared hotel rooms.

• What meals are included in the tour price?

  The tour includes 13 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 2 dinners. Generally, other meals are not included to offer flexibility, but your CEO can suggest local options, and groups often eat together.

• How physically demanding is this tour?

  This tour has a physical rating of 4, indicating it is challenging and designed for outdoor enthusiasts. Travellers must have at least an average level of fitness and mobility, be able to walk unassisted, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, and carry their own luggage. Altitude sickness is not an issue, as hikes are at a maximum of 1200m (4000ft) above sea level.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 16 travelers, with an average of 12 participants.

• Are local and international flights included in the cost of the trip?

  All local flights within the itinerary are included. International flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. It is important to provide your passport information at the time of booking for local flight tickets.

• How much spending money is recommended, and what currency should I use?

  Spending money requirements vary based on personal habits. It is recommended to have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an emergency fund. The currencies are Argentine Peso (ARS) and Chilean Peso (CLP). Bringing USD cash is recommended for the Argentine portion as it can be easier than using credit cards or ATMs, which may incur a 5-10% fee and are not guaranteed to work everywhere. Patagonia's cost of living is higher than other parts of South America.

• What are the guidelines for tipping on this trip?

  Tipping service providers (e.g., waiters at approximately 10%) is customary. Suggested tips for guides on this trip are: Laguna de los Tres Trekking Guide: USD 10; 3-day driver in Calafate: USD 5; Perito Moreno Glacier local guide: USD 10; Torres del Paine Trekking Guides: USD 40 (for 3 days); Porters Torres del Paine: USD 15; Camping Staff Torres del Paine: USD 5. Tipping your CEO is also appreciated, with a guideline of $10 USD per person, per day.

• What are some optional activities available on this tour?

  Optional activities include the Teatro Colón Tour (25USD) and La Boca Neighbourhood Visit (10USD) in Buenos Aires, a short hike in Los Glaciares National Park (30USD), a Perito Moreno Glacier Boat Tour (80USD), a Beagle Channel Cruise to Isla Martillo (125USD), visits to the Maritime Museum or Prison at the End of the World Museum (36USD), horseback riding in Ushuaia (100USD), and a Tierra del Fuego National Park Visit (30USD).

• Are there any specific safety considerations, especially in cities like Buenos Aires?

  It is important to be cautious, especially when walking alone at night in capital cities. Tourists can be targets for pickpockets or distraction schemes. It is strongly recommended to use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables and to store passports, credit cards, and excess cash in the hotel's safety deposit box. When going out at night, stay in small groups and consider taking taxis.

• What are the age requirements for joining this trip?

  You must be 18 years old to travel unaccompanied on this tour. Minors aged 12 and above can join if accompanied by a guardian who is 21 years or older.

• What is the policy for solo travelers regarding accommodation?

  Single travelers on group trips are typically paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip, without an extra single supplement. However, nights 7-8 in Torres del Paine National Park are exceptions to this policy, as accommodation will be camping.

• What health considerations should I be aware of before traveling?

  Inoculations may be required for the countries visited; you should consult with your travel doctor well before departure for up-to-date medical travel information. It is recommended to carry a First Aid kit, hand sanitizers, and any personal medical requirements, as the tour often visits remote areas away from medical facilities. A medical questionnaire, signed by a physician, is required for travelers with pre-existing medical conditions to ensure they can comfortably complete the trip.

• Will camping equipment be provided for the Torres del Paine trek?

  Yes, all essential camping equipment for the Torres del Paine trek, including a sleeping bag, tent, and thermal insulation mattress, is provided and included in the cost of your trip. You will only need to carry a day pack with personal items for the day's activities, as other luggage will be safely stored at the hotel in Puerto Natales. A dry bag will be provided for extra campsite necessities, with a maximum weight limit of 2.5 kg.

• Are laundry facilities available on this trip?

  Laundry facilities are offered by some of the hotels for a charge. There will be times when you may want to or need to do your own laundry, so bringing non-polluting/biodegradable soap is suggested.