11 Day Patagonian Explorer
These tours are our proudest creations. They have been crafted for Inspiring Vacations travellers exclusively, with personal and unique experiences in mind. Please see the Important Information on your selected tour for exact group size. Enjoy features such as hand-picked accommodation, a sampling of the region’s best culinary delights, and a range of optional activities to choose from to best suit your travel style.
This tour is escorted by local city guides in each location. The local guides will join you during the included activities and local representatives will assist with transfer arrangements. Another portion is self-guided, whether conducted by rail, cruise, or land, and you will travel between destinations on your own, with free time to explore at your own pace.
This tour is categorised as 4 out of 5
Packed itinerary with maximum exploration: Embark on a whirlwind sightseeing tour with minimal downtime. This tour maximises your exploration, keeping you on the move and ticking off must-see locations. A good fitness level and mobility are required to keep pace with this action-packed adventure!
As a general requirement across all of our trips, you may be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off transportation, handle your own luggage, and participate in all scheduled sightseeing that may be conducted on uneven ground and terrain. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability and where required, supporting documentation may be requested to ensure that we are comfortable that you will enjoy your trip.
✓ Small group tour, up to 16 guests only
✓ Incredible sightseeing through South America's Patagonia region including the granite peaks of Torres del Paine National Park, cruise among the famous Perito Moreno, Balmaceda and Serrano glaciers and enjoy a traditional tango and dinner show in Buenos Aires
✓ 10 nights in central 4-star accommodation including an unforgettable lodge stay at Design Suites Calafate overlooking Lake Argentino
✓ Breakfast daily, 3 lunches and 1 dinner
✓ Internal flights within South America from Buenos Aires to El Calafate, and from Punta Arenas to Santiago
✓ Escorted by professional local English-speaking guides
✓ Local bus transfer from El Calafate (Argentina) to Puerto Natales (Chile) and from Puerto Natales to Punta Arenas
✓ In-depth sightseeing and entrance fees as per the itinerary
Travel with the experts for a carefully curated, value-packed discovery of the world's most iconic destinations. Our tours are bursting with must-see sights, rich experiences and quality inclusions, all at an unbeatable price. Bucket list dreams are ticked off on these all-encompassing journeys.
Welcome to Buenos Aires! On arrival, make your own way to your hotel located in the heart of this vibrant city. Spend the afternoon and evening at leisure exploring the local neighbourhood. Enjoy one of the many tapas bars and restaurants that surround the hotel or relax at the hotel taking in the views from the rooftop sun terrace.
After breakfast, venture out on a guided tour of Buenos Aires. Discover the charm of Argentina's capital, from the chic districts of Recoleta and Palermo, to the historic Plaza de Mayo, and architectural icons such as the Colon Theatre, the Metropolitan Cathedral and the Palace of Argentine National Congress.
Enjoy lunch at a traditional Argentinian restaurant before we end the tour exploring the old town San Telmo, home of the city's aristocracy until the late 19th century, the iconic Caminito Street in La Boca, and the thriving young restaurant scene at the Puerto Madero waterfront. Spend time after the tour uncovering this area on your own before making your own way back to the hotel in time for this evening’s exciting activity.
Tonight you’ll experience the world-famous sensual dance at a traditional tango and dinner show. Enjoy fine dining, Argentine wine and a spectacular tango show watching passionate dancers teach you about the history of the tango, its music, and traditions. Following the show, you will be transferred back to your hotel for the evening.
This morning, transfer to the airport for your flight to El Calafate — your gateway to Patagonia. On arrival, you will be transferred to your beautiful 4-star lodge overlooking Lake Argentino.
Spend the rest of the day at leisure enjoying the hotel facilities including its indoor pool, sauna and spa, or stretch the legs and enjoy the incredible nature walks around the hotel.
Today we embark on a full day tour of the incredible Perito Moreno Glacier, one of the largest and the only advancing glacier in the world. Part of the Los Glaciares National Park, stop at the breathtaking "Curva de los Suspiros" (Curve of Sighs) before continuing on to the catwalks where you have time to admire the glacier from different panoramic points.
Following this, we’ll take a one hour boat excursion to experience the glacier from a different perspective before returning back to your hotel late this afternoon.
Today is yours to spend at leisure exploring this amazing region at your own pace. Alternately, you may wish to join one of the below optional tours:
Highlights: Mount Frías - Argentino Lake - Torres del Paine.
Join a 4x4 trip to ascend Mount Frias for trails with views of Argentino Lake. Stop at the first viewing point at 450m of the Centinela River Valley. We’ll then continue to the second viewing point at 1030m with incredible views of Torres del Paine, southern and northern channels of the Argentino Lake, the highest peaks of the Andes mountain chain and the Monte Fitz Roy, if the weather allows us. Our 4x4 adventure continues as we descend Mount Frias through the Lengas Forest for the east slope of the mount, finishing in Estancia Alice. Return back to El Calafate.
Duration: 5:30 hrs approx.
Transfer to the Port of Punta Bandera, located 47 km from El Calafate and set sail through the North Arm of Lake Argentino. Cross a natural funnel known as the Devil's Mouth, navigate around large icebergs that emerge from the front of the Upsala Glacier and enter the sector of the lake known as Canal Spegazzini to observe the impressive Dry Glacier. From there, we continue sailing to the front of the Spegazzini Glacier where we will also see the Heim Sur and Peineta glaciers. Disembark at the Spegazzini base and enjoy a walk through the forest with viewpoints of the entire Los Glaciares Bay. Enjoy lunch at the Spegazzini Refuge and, those who like to walk, can choose to take the mountain trail along a wooded path full of incredible views (this trek is classified as medium difficulty). Our tour ends at the disembarkation point with an included transfer to your hotel.
Duration: 8 hrs approx.
This morning we’ll transfer to El Calafate bus station and catch a bus to Puerto Natales (Chile).
Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your beautiful boutique lodge located in the incredible seafront surroundings of the city of Puerto Natales.
Puerto Natales is the gateway to the Torres del Paine National Park and a haven for outdoor adventure in the Patagonia region. The small town is located on the Señoret Channel along a scenic fjord, set against the dramatic backdrop of the southernmost peaks of the Andes.
Today will be packed with adventure as you depart for a full day excursion of the Torres del Paine National Park.
Known as a hiker’s paradise, you’ll experience first hand some of the panoramic views of this iconic national park. Visit Milodon’s Cave, a natural monument composed of three caverns, hike to stunning waterfalls and enjoy the natural scenery from multiple viewpoints including Laguna Sofia, Lake Porteño, Lake Gray, Salto Grande and Amarga Lagoon. Part of this unforgettable day also includes spying the Cuernos del Paine and surrounding granite peaks that have been shaped by years of erosion.
Enjoy lunch along the way before you return to your hotel late this afternoon.
This is a panoramic tour in which the vehicle makes stops to better see certain points of interest. The hikes are short with the simple goal of just getting to a viewpoint for a better perspective. The longest hike is to the shores of Grey Lake, where there is a viewpoint at a higher altitude that can be accessed by those who wish to do so.
Explore the frozen enchantment of the Balmaceda and Serrano glaciers on an exhilarating full-day tour from Puerto Natales.
Embark on a cruise of the Señoret Channel, heading towards Guanaco Island, keeping an eye out for Magellan dolphins, cormorants, condors and even sea sea lions along the way. The cruise continues to Mount Balmaceda where we can appreciate the glacier of the same name before disembarking in Puerto Toro to begin the one-hour trek to reach Serrano Glacier, accompanied by our bilingual guide (this trek is classified as medium difficulty).
After a day exploring the unique, wild and untouched landscape, our tour returns for your final night in Puerto Natales.
Transfer from your hotel to the bus station where we take a local bus and travel approximately 2 and a half hours to Punta Arenas to arrive at the airport in time for your flight to Santiago.
Upon your arrival into Santiago, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure to explore the buzzing capital of Chile, surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of the Andes.
This morning, enjoy a half day guided tour of Santiago to visit the heart of the city. Wander past historic sites including the Plaza de Armas, the Santiago Metropolitan Cathedral and Santiago’s Central Postal Office. Visit the government’s headquarters at the Moneda Palace, explore the traditional neighbourhoods of the historic city centre and travel to the financial heart of Santiago, known for its modern buildings, glass skyscrapers and impressive sculptures designed by prominent national architects.
The rest of the afternoon is at leisure to explore on your own.
Alternatively, you may wish to join an optional full day tour to Vina Del Mar and Valparaiso. If selecting this option, please note you’ll depart before the Santiago city tour.
Known as the “Garden City”, Viña del Mar stands out for its beautiful architecture, its impressive palaces and famous Flower Clock. Here you will have ample time to enjoy lunch on your own before we travel along the seafront to one of the most important ports in Chile; Valparaiso - a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its colourful beauty and unique hillside location. We’ll visit Cerro Alegre, where you can truly appreciate the magic of the city, with its picturesque funiculars and multi-colored neighbourhoods. After enjoying the unforgettable sea views, we’ll head to Sotomayor Square to see the Monument of the Heroes of Iquique. Once in the port, there will be the option to take a boat out around Valparaíso’s bay to continue enjoying the views of the colourful hills from a different perspective.
Today, your adventure ends at the hotel after breakfast.
*Note some shared services such as tours, and bus transfers are exceptions, where the shared departure group may join a bigger group for that particular service.
**Note flights on Aerolineas Argentinas only permit a maximum of 15kg checked in baggage. Excess baggage may be purchased at the airport where additional fees will apply.
Secure your trip with a $99.00 deposit per person.
Once we receive your deposit, we will send you an invoice with your remaining balance and payment options.
Instalment Schedule:
Fitness Requirements
While the tour itinerary should give you some guidance and overview to the expected requirements, to determine if this tour is right for you we categorise each of our tours in terms of their intensity. These guidelines are to ensure that each tour group is conducted as expected and to ensure the overall satisfaction of all Inspiring Vacations customers.
As a general rule, porterage is not included, therefore at all times you are expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available.
This particular tour is categorised as a”4”
Active Tour: A very good level of fitness and mobility is required for you to enjoy all aspects of the itinerary, as this is considered a fast-paced tour. While there is some free time scheduled either in the morning or afternoon, there are many full days of sightseeing with minimal rest and some early starts. You will be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off the coach and participate in all scheduled sightseeing that may be conducted on uneven ground and terrain. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability. If you have any form of walking aids, other than a walking stick or hiking poles, then this tour is not suitable.
Tipping
A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. While tipping is not customary, it's of great significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels, inspires excellent service, and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many destinations.
You may also consider tipping your tour leader and driver for outstanding service throughout your trip. Remember, a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.
Accommodation
The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences, however, any changes are beyond our control.
Single Supplement
Single supplement is $1,543.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price.
Triple Share
Not available.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is recommended to protect yourself against the unexpected. In addition to the support that a policy may provide, you may be asked to present a copy of your travel insurance documentation while traveling.
We have partnered with nib to offer our customers competitive rates for their travel insurance. You can book Comprehensive or Essentials cover for your domestic, international or multi-trip journeys simply by clicking HERE.
Note that Inspiring Vacations cannot provide advice with regards to any insurance product.
Visa & Passport information
It is the traveller's responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the intended date of return.
Visas may be required.
Please note that these details are subject to change without notice. We recommend visiting https://smartraveller.gov.au for up to date information in terms of entry requirements.
Group Size
2-16 people
Children
Children must be 5 years old or above and share a room with parents at all times. Children are charged the same price as adults.
Tour Style
To meet the needs of various types of travelers, we choose to operate various types of tours, and depending on your selected package will mean different services are provided throughout your trip. The following descriptions of each tour style we hope will ensure that each traveller has appropriate expectations before they start their travels:
Local Guides
This tour is escorted by local city guides in each location. The local guides will join you during included activities and local representatives will assist with transfer arrangements. Another portion is self-guided, whether conducted by rail, cruise or land, and you will travel between destinations on your own, with free time to explore at your own pace.
To enhance your journey, we are offering guests a choice of the following optional activities (prices are per person):
Optional tours can be selected once you have finalised your tour purchase and paid your deposit. When completing your Passenger Booking Form, you will be asked if you would like to add Optional Tours, where any applicable cost will be added to your final balance. If you choose not to select them at this time, you can choose to add them later by logging in to your Account online.
Please note that you must select your Optional Tours no later than 70 days before departure, after which you will be required to purchase them on tour. Please keep in mind that anything purchased on-tour is subject to availability and prices may vary as you will be paying in local currency. We appreciate your understanding.
You can enhance your holiday by arriving or departing before or after the tour. On this tour you can choose from the following options:
Pre Tour Accommodation
Post Tour Accommodation
Arrival and departure airport transfers
Your transfer may be shared with other Inspiring Vacations customers.
Please select the number of extra nights required in the 'Additional Nights Accommodation' field when making your purchase. The additional cost for these arrangements will be added to your final payment invoice and are subject to availability.
This package is sold as land only, however you do have the option of adding domestic & international airfares to your booking. Simply click on’ book now’, and under upgrades , you will be asked “Would you like us to contact you around our flight service?”. By selecting this option Inspiring Vacations will contact you to discuss adding flights to your chosen destination. We can then assist with turning your booking into a flight inclusive package.
Upon completing the purchase of your package and fulfilling the following booking requirements, you will be granted access to our flight portal via your Traveller Hub.
Once these criteria have been met, access will be made available to you via Traveller Hub to book your flights via our flight portal.
The following requests are able to be processed through the online flight portal:
The online flight portal is unable to process the following requests and you must book these yourself independently:
Online check-in
Some airlines may not permit online check-in where flights have been booked by a travel company. Where unavailable to do so online, you will be required to check-in at the airport. Inspiring Vacations cannot check-in online on behalf of our customers.
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