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Itinerary Important Info Departure Dates More Argentina Tours
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Border information: if you are starting your trip in Buenos Aires, you will most likely enter Argentina at Buenos Aires Ministro Pistarini International Airport, also known as Ezeiza Airport (IATA code: BUE/EZE).
Welcome to the cosmopolitan Argentine capital of Buenos Aires! There will be an important group meeting at 6:00pm at the joining hotel - please look out at the hotel reception for a note from your leader with more details about this meeting. Please note that many of the optional activities will only be possible for those with extra time in Buenos Aires before the start of your trip with us - please contact the Sales team if you would like to book pre-tour accommodation with us to have extra time exploring Buenos Aires.
Accommodation: Comfortable Hotel
Today is a free day to explore the incredible city of Buenos Aires, soak up the atmosphere of its streets, and discover its amazing culture, art, and music.
Accommodation: Comfortable Hotel
Daily Activities
Optional Activities
Learn all about the cuisine of Argentina on a food tour of Buenos Aires visiting several incredible local top-class eateries that you won't find in the guidebooks!
Tour: 85 USD
Enjoy a free city tour of Buenos Aires
Tour: Free
Visit the strangely beautiful cemetery of Recoleta the final resting place of many ex-presidents and Argentine icons most famously including the tomb of Eva Peron
Entrance: Free
See a different side to Buenos Aires on a tour of its incredible street art with some of the local artists
Tour: 20 USD
Try your hand at the art of tango dancing with a private lesson in Buenos Aires
Lesson: 25 USD
Head out to a tango show in Buenos Aires' oldest cafe the Gran Cafe Tortoni - seeing a slice of iconic Argentine culture in an ideal and intimate setting
Show: 650 ARS
Today we begin our journey from Buenos Aires with a full drive day across the pampas and grasslands of the province.
Accommodation: Camping
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 11
Today we head south to the coastal town of Puerto Madryn.
Accommodation: Camping
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 12
Today we will have a free day for optional activities in and around Puerto Madryn. There is the opportunity to take a tour to the Valdes Peninsular to see its desolate scenery and abundant marine life, head out on a boat trip in search of dolphins and whales, or perhaps go for afternoon tea in a Welsh tea house in the nearby towns of Gaiman or Trelew.
Accommodation: Camping
Daily Activities
Optional Activities
Set off on a boat trip from Puerto Madryn in search of playful Commerson's dolphins (all year) or Dusky dolphins (December to March) and Southern Right whales (May to December)!
3hrs: 47 USD
Visit the fascinating modern marine interpretation centre of EcoCentro Mar Patagonia and learn all about the unique ecosystems of the Patagonian sea
Entrance: 125 USD
Explore the intriguing Welsh village of Gaiman near Trelew and visit one of its iconic tea houses. Transfers by bus.
Teahouse entrances: 12 USD
Discover the incredible colony of sea lions at Punta Loma near to Puerto Madryn
Entrance: 100 ARS
Explore the incredible shipwrecks and rocky reefs under the water on a scuba diving trip in the Golfo Nuevo off the shore of Puerto Madryn
3hrs: 150 USD
Visit the outstanding Museum of Paleontology in the Welsh town of Trelew and see the impressive ancient remains
MEF Entrance: 95 USD
Today we will drive south along the coast and have an included visit to the incredible remote colony of Magellanic Penguins in Cabo Dos Bahias (Cape Two Bays), close to the town of Camarones. After seeing the phenomenal sight of thousands of penguins nesting on the shore, we will head to the nearby small town of Camarones.
Accommodation: Camping
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 5
Daily Activities
Included Activities
Visit the penguin colony at Camarones
From Camarones we set off on an all day drive following the South Atlantic coast.
Accommodation: Camping
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 10
Today we leave the coast behind and head west across the country to the town of El Calafate, the gateway to the Perito Moreno Glacier.
Accommodation: Multishare Hostel
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 12
Today we will head out on an included full day guided visit to view the stunning Perito Moreno Glacier, one of the most spectacular sights in Patagonia.
Accommodation: Multishare Hostel
Daily Activities
Included Activities
Guided full day trip to the Perito Moreno Glacier
Optional Activities
Boat trip beneath the Perito Moreno Glacier
1 hour: 1,000 ARS
Learn all about glaciers at the fantastic modern Glaciarium Museum in El Calafate and visit its cool ice bar in the basement!
Entrance to museum and ice bar: 600 ARS
Border information: Exit Argentina at Cerro Castillo and enter Chile at Cerro Castillo. Today we will drive to the world-famous Torres del Paine National Park. This is one of the most outstanding areas of natural beauty in the world and a main highlight of the trip for many of our passengers and leaders! We will stop en route in Puerto Natales to stock up on supplies and pick up our local guides and cook who will accompany us during our time in the National Park.
Tonight we will camp at Camping Pehoe, a stunning campsite inside the National Park with incredible views of Los Cuernos mountains, which we will refer to as our 'base campsite'.
Accommodation: Camping
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 9
Daily Activities
Included Activities
4 days in the rugged Torres del Paine National Park, trekking the W walk with a local guide
Embark on the W-Walk with a local guide. Places at the campsites are limited by the National Park, so we book them in advance of your trip. We will be trekking the W-Walk from West to East, to enjoy the spectacular views.
This morning we will wake early and transfer by truck for the morning Catamaran to cross Lago Pehoe. We will then set up camp at Paine Grande, before continuing on our hike towards the lookout for Glacier Grey.
Accommodation: Camping
Today we depart from our camp at Paine Grande and hike into the stunning French Valley. In the afternoon, we will make our way to Camp Cuernos.
The hike is approximately 8 hours.
Accommodation: Camping
Today we have a slightly easier day, we will hike from Camping Cuernos along the edge of Lago Nodenskjold, around Almirante Nieto and stay just outside Valley Ascencio. We will arrive at Camp Central after approximately 5 hours hiking.
Accommodation: Camping
This is our final day of the W-Walk and the most spectacular. The day begins with a steady climb from our camp site up Rio Asencio. Be prepared for the final hour which is a relatively steep scramble up to the Tarn and Mirrador Las Torres, affording great views of the iconic Towers.
Our hike today is approximately 8 hours for the return trip (16km). We will spend the night at Camp Central again.
Accommodation: Camping
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 2
Today we have an early start to leave Torres del Paine and head south to cross the Magellan Straits onto the island of Tierra del Fuego.
Tonight we will wild bush camp somewhere in the desolate wilds of the Chilean side of Tierra del Fuego.
Accommodation: Wild Camp
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 10
Border information: Exit Chile at San Sebastian, enter Argentina at San Sebastian
Today we cross over to the Argentine side of Tierra del Fuego and drive to the incredible port town of Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world!
Accommodation: Multishare Hostel
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 6
We will have a free day in the remote town of Ushuaia, with plenty of time for optional activities such as a visit to the hauntingly beautiful Tierra del Fuego National Park, boat trips to see the scenery and wildlife of the Beagle Channel, or heading out horse riding along the coast.
Accommodation: Multishare Hostel
Daily Activities
Optional Activities
Beagle channel boat trips
4 hours: 2,040 ARS
Explore Tierra del Fuego National Park on a day tour from Ushuaia
4 hour guided tour: 1,450 ARS
Learn all about Tierra del Fuego's history and nature at the Museum of the End of the World in Ushuaia
Entrance: 300 ARS
Delve into Ushuaia's past and learn about it's maritime tradition and former prison colony at the Maritime Museum
Entrance: 400 ARS
Take a journey along the Rio Pipo on the Train to the End of the World. Once built by prisoners at Ushuaia's old penal colony
Train trip: 44 USD
Border information: Exit Argentina at San Sebastian, enter Chile at San Sebastian. Today we start heading back north and back onto the Chilean side of Tierra del Fuego. Here we will visit the small King Penguin colony that have recently set up home at the remote Bahia Inutil (Useless Bay).
Accommodation: Wild Camp
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 7
Daily Activities
Included Activities
Head out to the remote corner of Chilean Tierra del Fuego. If time allows, visit the King Penguin colony at Bahia Inutil, the only colony of these type of penguins outside of Antarctica
Border information: Exit Chile at Integracion Austral, enter Argentina at Integracion Austral. Today we continue our journey north, crossing the Magellan Strait back to the mainland and then heading across the Argentine border.
Accommodation: Wild Camp
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 8
Today we will continue north, overlanding across the Patagonian steppe and to the small town of El Chaltén, situated in Los Glaciares National Park and famous for its incredible mountains, glaciers and world-class trekking opportunities.
Accommodation: Multishare Hostel
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 3
We will have a day to enjoy the stunning Los Glaciares National Park and the incredible scenery of the nearby Mt. Fitz Roy. There are lots of trekking and walking opportunities here, as well as boat trips, horse riding, and many other fantastic options.
Accommodation: Multishare Hostel
Daily Activities
Optional Activities
Enjoy a spectacular kayaking trip down the Rio de las Vueltas taking in some incredible views of the surrounding mountains
Min 2 passengers: 150 USD
Visit the majestic Lago del Desierto, a remote and serene lake surrounded by stunning forests and mountains
Full day cycling tour: 500 USD
Horse riding and trekking around El Chalten
2 hours ride inc transfer: 60 ARS
Head on a rock-climbing course in the magnificent landscapes surrounding El Chalten
Full day course: 163 USD
Take a boat out onto the stunning Viedma Lake and get up close to the Viedma Glacier to see its impressive facade.
2.5hr boat trip: 1,100 ARS
Today we start heading north again with a full day drive along the famous Ruta 40 (Route 40).
Accommodation: Wild Camp
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 10
Border information: Exit Argentina at Ingeniero Pallavecini, enter Chile at Puerto Ingeniero Ibáñez. Today we will drive across the border into the magnificent scenery of the Chilean Carretera Austral, possibly one of the most stunning areas in South America, with the beautiful mountains of the Cerro Castillo National Reserve. In Cerro Castillo we will camp in a lovely family-run campsite with basic facilities, where we will enjoy a Chilean BBQ.
Accommodation: Camping
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 8
Daily Activities
Included Activities
Enjoy a traditional Chilean BBQ
We have a free day here to enjoy optional activities such as hiking to the turquoise waters of Laguna Cerro Castillo or to go horse riding.
Accommodation: Camping
Daily Activities
Optional Activities
Explore the beautiful mountain scenery of Cerro Castillo on a horse riding trip
2hr 15min ride: 18,000 CLP
Hike to the stunning Laguna Cerro Castillo
NP entrance: 10,000 CLP
Today we drive through the Chilean fjords to Queluat National Park, where we can take a walk in the enchanted forest to see the spectacular Hanging Glacier.
Accommodation: Camping
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 6
Daily Activities
Included Activities
Visit the stunning Queulat National Park and take a trek through the 'Enchanted Forest' to view the magnificent Hanging Glacier
Today we continue to the rafting mecca of Futaleufú, a frontier town on the northern end of the Carreterra Austral, bordering Argentina. The Rio Futaleufú is one of the premier white water rafting rivers in the world, but the town is also a great spot for mountain biking, trekking and canyoning.
Accommodation: Camping
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 6
We have time in Futaleufu to relax and enjoy the surroundings or to do optional activities.
Accommodation: Camping
Daily Activities
Optional Activities
Head out for an exhilarating rafting or kayaking trip on the Grade 5 white water rapids near Futaleufú (if time allows)
2-6 hours. 5 pax minimum: 65,000 CLP
Today we continue our journey to the picturesque town of Bariloche in Argentina's Lake District. We will see a definite change in the landscape today as the vegetation becomes more lush and green as we come out of the Patagonia region and into the forests of the Lake District.
Accommodation: Multishare Hostel
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 7
We will have a free day to enjoy the beautiful mountain town of Bariloche and the stunning surrounding lakes, mountains and forests. We have options to explore the area by foot, mountain bike, kayak or boat.
Accommodation: Multishare Hostel
Daily Activities
Optional Activities
Horse riding around Bariloche
Half day riding: 1,750 ARS
Discover the incredible scenery of the Nauhel Huapi Lake and the Victoria Islands on a boat trip from Bariloche
Full day trip: 1,800 ARS
Hire mountain bikes to explore the forests and hills surrounding Lake Nauhel Huapi and Bariloche
Full day hire, including helmet: 900 ARS
Explore the nearby Lago Gutierrez and take in its amazing views from the water on a half-day tandem kayaking trip
1/2 day: 790 ARS
Visit the interesting Fenoglio Chocolate Museum in Bariloche and learn all about the towns tradition of chocolate making
Entrance: 200 ARS
Border information: Exit Argentina at Mamuil Malal, enter Chile at Mamuil Malal. Today we journey through the Andes into Chile and continue to the town of Pucón via the scenic Ruta de los Siete Lagos (Seven Lakes Route).
Accommodation: Multishare Hostel
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 10
We will have a free day in Pucón to enjoy a range of optional activities, including a sunrise expedition to climb the Villarica volcano which looms over Pucón, heading out horse riding through the surrounding forests, or an evening visit to the nearby natural hot springs.
Accommodation: Multishare Hostel
Daily Activities
Optional Activities
Trek up the snowcapped volcano Mt Villarica
Chairlift : 10,000 CLP
Tour: 95,000 CLP
Explore the spectacular Lake District near Pucón by mountain bike
Full day hire : 10,000 CLP
Take part in a fantastic canyoning expedition through the gorges of the Chilean Lake District near Pucón
Canyoning tour: 25,000 CLP
Horseriding or hikes around Pucon
Horse riding (3hrs): 35,000 CLP
Explore the stunning views and hiking trails of the nearby Huerquehue National Park
Entrance to NP and public bus fare : 7,000 CLP
Head on an exciting white-water rafting trip on the rapids of the Trancura River near Pucón
Rafting : 25,000 CLP
Relax in the soothing waters of the Pozones natural hot springs
Entrance : 12,000 CLP
Learn all about Pucón and the history of its people on a free walking tour of the town
Tips only : Free
Today we will leave the Chilean Lake District behind and head to the coast to the laid back, farming village of Buchupureo, where we can relax by the beach.
Accommodation: Camping
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 7
This morning we head into the wine region where we will make a stop at a vineyard for a wine tour and tasting. In the afternoon we continue our journey to the cosmopolitan Chilean capital of Santiago.
Accommodation: Basic Hotel
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 6
Daily Activities
Included Activities
Whet your palette during wine tasting at a vineyard in San Javier
Border information: if you are finishing in Santiago, you will most likely exit Chile at Santiago Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (IATA code: SCL).
Today is a free day to explore the cosmopolitan Chilean capital.
Today is the end day for passengers finishing their trip in Santiago. Please note there is no accommodation included on the trip tonight - please contact the Sales Team if you are interested in booking extra nights of accommodation in order to fully explore and take part in some of the optional activities listed below.
Daily Activities
Optional Activities
Discover all of Santiago's sights on a hop-on/hop-off bus around the city
Tour: 21,000 CLP
Learn more about Santiago and its history on a free walking tour of the centre from a knowledgeable local guide
Tour: Free
Take in the breathtaking vista of the city skyline backdropped by the mighty Andes from the viewpoints at Cerro San Cristobal or Cerro San Lucia
Cable car: 2,500 CLP
Two Dragoman Crew Members, Local Guides where necessary
Travel by Overland Expedition Vehicle, Local Bus, Ferry, Boat
Comfortable Hotel 2 nights, Camping 16 nights, Multishare Hostel 10 nights, Wild Camp 4 nights, Basic Hotel 1 night
Breakfasts x 22, Lunches x 19, Dinners x 20
Visit the penguin colony at Camarones, Guided full day trip to the Perito Moreno Glacier, 4 days in the rugged Torres del Paine National Park, trekking the W walk with a local guide, Head out to the remote corner of Chilean Tierra del Fuego. If time allows, visit the King Penguin colony at Bahia Inutil, the only colony of these type of penguins outside of Antarctica
Deposit & Payments
Book now and secure your package with only a $375 deposit per person.
Pay a 2nd instalment of $300 per person within 28 days.
You will then be invoiced for final payment 90 days prior to departure.
Booking Process
Select the purple 'Reserve Your Seat' tab to begin your booking (you must 'Sign Up' first by entering your email and creating a password)
Then select the purple 'Book now' tab of the tour you have selected
Select your Departure Date, Departure City, Number of Passengers, Room Configuration, any Upgrade Options, and enter any Special Requests
Click the purple ‘Proceed to Secure Checkout' tab
Enter your credit card or PayPal details to secure your deposit/payment. You may also pay via BPAY (not available within 70 days of departure)
Once your order is complete, you will be prompted to complete a Booking Form so that we can fulfil your booking
Your position on the tour will be confirmed within 48 hours of completing your order. If your place cannot be confirmed, a full refund of the deposit will occu
Buenos Aires - Learn all about the cuisine of Argentina on a food tour of Buenos Aires visiting several incredible local top-class eateries that you won't find in the guidebooks! - USD 85
Buenos Aires - Watch a football game at La Bombonera - ARS 300
Buenos Aires - Enjoy a free city tour of Buenos Aires - Free
Buenos Aires - Explore the beautiful area of Palermo Viejo see the incredible modern sculpture of Floralis Generica and head out to the area's bars and restaurants at night - Free
Buenos Aires - Visit the strangely beautiful cemetery of Recoleta the final resting place of many ex-presidents and Argentine icons most famously including the tomb of Eva Peron - Free
Buenos Aires - Head out to a tango show in Buenos Aires' oldest cafe the Gran Cafe Tortoni - seeing a slice of iconic Argentine culture in an ideal and intimate setting - ARS 650
Puerto Madryn - Set off on a boat trip from Puerto Madryn in search of playful Commerson's dolphins (all year) or Dusky dolphins (December to March) and Southern Right whales (May to December)! - USD 47
Puerto Madryn - Visit the fascinating modern marine interpretation centre of EcoCentro Mar Patagonia and learn all about the unique ecosystems of the Patagonian sea - USD 25
Puerto Madryn - Explore the intriguing Welsh village of Gaiman near Trelew and visit one of its iconic tea houses. Transfers by bus - USD 12
Puerto Madryn - Discover the incredible colony of sea lions at Punta Loma near to Puerto Madryn - ARS 100
Puerto Madryn - Explore the incredible shipwrecks and rocky reefs under the water on a scuba diving trip in the Golfo Nuevo off the shore of Puerto Madryn - USD 150
Puerto Madryn - USD 95
El Calafate - Boat trip to the Perito Moreno Glacier - ARS 1000
El Calafate - Learn all about glaciers at the fantastic modern Glaciarium Museum in El Calafate and visit its cool ice bar in the basement! - ARS 600
Ushuaia - Beagle channel boat trip - ARS 2040
Ushuaia - Explore Tierra del Fuego National Park on a day tour from Ushuaia - ARS 1450
Ushuaia - Learn all about Tierra del Fuego's history and nature at the Museum of the End of the World in Ushuaia - ARS 300
Ushuaia - Delve into Ushuaia's past and learn about it's maritime tradition and former prison colony at the Maritime Museum - ARS 400
Ushuaia - Take a journey along the Rio Pipo on the Train to the End of the World. Once built by prisoners at Ushuaia's old penal colony - USD 44
El Chalten - Enjoy a spectacular kayaking trip down the Rio de las Vueltas taking in some incredible views of the surrounding mountains. in 2 passengers: USD 150
El Chalten - Visit the majestic Lago del Desierto, a remote and serene lake surrounded by stunning forests and mountains. Full day cycling tour: USD 500
El Chalten - Horse riding and trekking around El Chalten. 2 hours ride inc transfer. ARS 60
El Chalten - Head on a rock-climbing course in the magnificent landscapes surrounding El Chalten. Full day course. USD 163
El Chalten - Take a boat out onto the stunning Viedma Lake and get up close to the Viedma Glacier to see its impressive facade. 2.5hr boat trip - ARS 1100
Cerro Castillo - Explore the beautiful mountain scenery of Cerro Castillo on a horse riding trip. 2h15h - CLP 18000
Cerro Castillo - Hike to the stunning Laguna Cerro Castillo. NP Entrance fee. CLP10000
Futaleufu - Head out for an exhilarating rafting or kayaking trip on the Grade 5 white water rapids near Futaleufu (if time allows). 2-6 hours. 5 pax minimum - CLP 65000
Bariloche - Horse riding around Bariloche
Bariloche - Discover the incredible scenery of the Nauhel Huapi Lake and the Victoria Islands on a boat trip from Bariloche. Full day trip - ARS 1800
Bariloche - Hire mountain bikes to explore the forests and hills surrounding Lake Nauhel Huapi and Bariloche Full day hire, including helmet - ARS 900
Bariloche - Explore the nearby Lago Gutierrez and take in its amazing views from the water on a half-day tandem kayaking trip .1/2 day - ARS 790
Bariloche - Visit the interesting Fenoglio Chocolate Museum in Bariloche and learn all about the towns tradition of chocolate making. Entrance - ARS 200
Pucon - Trek up the snowcapped volcano Mt Villarica Chairlift - CLP 10000. Tour - CLP 95000
Pucon - Explore the spectacular Lake District near Pucón by mountain bike. Full day hire. CLP 10000
Pucon - Take part in a fantastic canyoning expedition through the gorges of the Chilean Lake District near Pucón. Canyoning tour - CLP 25000
Pucon - Horseriding or hikes around Pucon. Horse riding (3hrs) - CLP 35000
Pucon - Explore the stunning views and hiking trails of the nearby Huerquehue National Park Entrance to NP and public bus fare - CLP 7000
Pucon - Head on an exciting white-water rafting trip on the rapids of the Trancura River near Pucón Rafting - CLP 25000
Pucon - Relax in the soothing waters of the Pozones natural hot springs. Entrance - CLP 12000
Pucon - Learn all about Pucón and the history of its people on a free walking tour of the town. Tips only. Free
Santiago - Discover all of Santiago's sights on a hop-on/hop-off bus around the city tour - CLP 21000
Santiago - Learn more about Santiago and its history on a free walking tour of the centre from a knowledgeable local guide tour - Free
Santiago - Take in the breathtaking vista of the city skyline backdropped by the mighty Andes from the viewpoints at Cerro San Cristobal or Cerro San Lucia cable car - CLP 2500
Tour Kitty of USD $1220 per person is not included in the price and it is payable locally (refer to Important Information)
Airfares
Personal Expenses
Travel Insurance
Optional activities
Anything not mentioned in the itinerary or optional
Accommodation
Dragoman's overland trips are designed for shared accommodation, whether camping or staying in hotels or hostels, and therefore do not involve a single supplement. Whilst our crew will do their best to accommodate couples travelling together in twin rooms, all our travellers should expect to stay in multi-share accommodation when staying in hostels, gers or yurts. The type, variety and standard of accommodation will vary greatly depending on what options are available at the time; hotels can vary from very basic rooms without electricity or running water to high standard hotels with good facilities! Generally in hotels most rooms will be single sex, twin-share, but in South America many rooms are triple/quad-share. Hostels, gers and yurts are nearly always multi-share and may be mixed sex.
The campsites will range from rather basic to those with excellent facilities, including swimming pools, restaurants and bars. In some cases it may also be possible to upgrade locally to bungalows, lodges or even tree-houses. One of the highlights of overlanding is that in more remote areas we wild camp away from the tourist crowds. Occasionally on some of our trips we are able to stay in villages or local homestays allowing us to get close to the indigenous population and ensuring that our money stays within the local community.
Single Supplement
We do not offer a single supplement during the booking stage, as this will be unavailable for camping with a full truck, and difficult to confirm in many hotels. However, if you would like to ‘upgrade’ to having your own room whilst on the road then this is possible if you pay the difference yourself, subject to availability. Your tour leader will assist with this as they make ongoing bookings on the road.
Group Size
The maximum group size we take on our overland journeys ranges from 19 to 22 depending on the geographical location; however the average number of passengers is more likely to be around 16. On some departures there may be more than one truck doing the same route. This means that you will be in the same hotel or campsite as another Dragoman group on some days. To ensure that you are not always at the same place at the same time as another group, your itinerary will most likely be slightly altered from the itinerary advertised on the website and in the Trip Itinerary. Even on the majority of our trips where there is only the one truck, you may from time to time meet up with other groups at points on the road, and may partake in activities jointly with other groups on these occasions.
Meals and Group Participation
On an overland journey you are more than just an individual passenger - you're part of the team. You are expected to pitch in to set up camp, shop for food, cook and generally help out. As part of your trip you will be assigned a truck job which could be collecting water and firewood, sweeping out the truck, loading the back locker, etc. While camping on overland journeys, the meals are included in the kitty. This means that you will have to work together to cook for everyone in your group. You will be divided into smaller units of 3-4 people and take it in turns to cook for the whole group according to a rota system. When it is your group's turn to cook you will have to plan the meal, shop for the ingredients in local markets or supermarkets and then prepare the meal for the whole group. The secret to cooking for 20+ people using a basic camping kitchen is to keep it simple! (On trips south of Nairobi we
have a cook on board the truck; however you will still be required to help them to prepare meals). An example of a typical camp breakfast might be toast with spreads, fruit and cereal as well as tea and coffee. When time allows it
will also be possible to serve something hot such as eggs or pancakes. Lunch is almost always a sandwich heaped high with healthy salad and assorted fillings, with fruit to follow. Dinner might be a BBQ, risotto or pasta dish and there is always the chance to try some local cooking. Generally our passengers find the more they put into a trip, the more they benefit from it.
Our Overland Trucks
Dragoman's fleet is truly unique. We use rugged and sturdy Mercedes-Benz trucks (known for their durability) that will take you off road and off the beaten track. They are specially modified at our workshop in Suffolk, UK, into our custom designed overland vehicles. Features such as our integrated cabs are unique to Dragoman trucks, and our customers regularly say that they make our trucks the best on the road. With their distinctive orange and white livery and their personalised names, our trucks have become iconic. All of our trucks are affectionately named and have their own individual personality. Many of our passengers remember the name of their truck many years after their trip!
Our trucks are fully equipped for self-sufficient wild camping, and have comfortable coach-style seating. All Dragoman trucks are owned and maintained by us, and our crew follow a strict maintenance schedule - this means we can manage the quality and safety of our fleet. We currently have 26 overland trucks (and 1 overland bus) on the road worldwide, and the fleet is growing all the time! For more information on our trucks, please visit: https://dragoman.com/overlanding/our-trucks/meet-the-fleet
The Kitty
In addition to the trip price on our overlanding trips, you will also be required to pay a kitty specified for your trip. The kitty is payable in instalments at the start of each section of the trip for combination trips, and in full at the start of the trip for individual trips. Each customer joining a trip pays their kitty into a central fund. The fund is managed by the Dragoman crew and the kitty accounts can be viewed by all throughout the trip. The kitty covers all things that the whole group does, such as:
• Hotel accommodation and campsite fees
• Meals whilst camping (not whilst staying in hotels)
• Activities listed as included (e.g. National Park or historical site entrances, excursions, etc.)
The kitty system is unique to overlanding and allows us to have flexibility and transparency on our trips. You can see exactly how your money is being spent and ensure that you are getting the best value by buying locally. It also helps to keep the costs competitive and save on administration costs so that we can pass the saving on to you. Dragoman makes NO PROFIT on kitties, as they are the group's fund. We constantly update the kitty prices on our website and the kitty advertised in the brochure is an estimate at the time of printing. Prices can go up or down with no notice, and exchange rate fluctuations will affect costs. If there is money left in the kitty at the end of your trip, then this is divided between the group and you receive a refund. Once you book your trip it is very important that you check our website on a regular basis and just before departure for any changes to the kitty amount. Some hotels and hostels increase their rates substantially over Christmas and New Year. Please therefore be aware that the kitty for trips in this period may be substantially higher than for the rest of the year and an additional amount may be required from you.
Paying your kitty
Remember to arrange to bring sufficient cash USD to pay your kitty at the start of the trip, or to arrange for prepayment (if available for your trip). If you choose to prepay your kitty then this must be done via bank transfer 3-4 weeks before the start of your trip. Please note that prepayment is not available for our trips to West Africa, Iran, Tajikistan, and any trip in Africa north of Nairobi. For more details on how to prepay your kitty, please refer to your Kitty Payments sheet which will been sent to you via email or visit this link: https://www.dragoman.com/files/Dragoman_Kitty_Document.pdf
If you are bringing the kitty out in cash, please ensure your USD notes are clean and undamaged and no more than 8 years old. If needed, your tour leader will be able to accept some of the kitty in local currency, and they will let you know the exchange rate locally. In most destinations you can withdraw local currencies from ATM machines, using either a cash passport or a credit/debit card. However, please bear in mind that most cards have a maximum withdrawal amount per day, local ATMs may run out of cash, and your bank could block the card despite you warning them of your travel plans, so it could be impractical to try to get the entire kitty out from an ATM.
Please note that we cannot accept traveller’s cheques on our trips.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is required to protect yourself against the unexpected. We have partnered with nib to offer our customers competitive rates for their travel insurance. You can book comprehensive or budget cover simply by clicking HERE to arrange your policy.
Visa & Passport information
It is the traveller's responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the intended date of your return.
Visa information for Argentina
Citizens of the UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, USA, Canada and all EU countries will not need a visa to visit Argentina as a tourist for up to 90 days. Citizens of other countries should check with the relevant consulates as to whether a visa is required. If a visa is required, you will need to obtain it in advance.
Visa information for Chile
Citizens of the UK, Ireland, New Zealand, USA, Canada and most EU countries will not need a visa to visit Chile as a tourist for up to 90 days. Before December 15, 2019 Australian tourists entering Chile through Santiago International Airport were required to pay a "reciprocity fee" of US$117. From 9 May 2020, Australians will be required to obtain e-visas to enter Chile. Citizens of other countries should check with the relevant consulates as to whether a visa is required. If a visa is required, you will need to obtain it in advance.
Patagonia Notes
This trip will be travelling to the southernmost point of South America, and you should expect extreme weather conditions. It can be bitterly cold and very windy with heavy rain at any time of the year, even during the summer. The weather changes extremely fast so you should expect four seasons' weather in one day. Therefore please remember to prepare accordingly – this is a tough trip and should not be taken lightly. We suggest you take plenty of good quality warm,
waterproof and windproof clothing and use the layering system to keep warm. As you will spend a number of nights camping, we recommend you bring a good camping mat, a good quality 4 season sleeping bag, a sleeping bag liner and a small pillow to keep comfortable.
Patagonia's peak season is the summer (Mid November to February). The days are long, typically temperatures are around 20°C during the day, dropping to 8°C at night, though whilst generally warm in the summer, it can often be very windy, with rain. If you are travelling during the peak season be aware that activities and camp sites sell out fast and you will be sharing the trails with a greater number of fellow trekkers. Please note that due to the popularity of the region, we also find that prices can increase significantly during high season. In the shoulder season the days are much colder, but often clearer and brighter, with fewer people on the trails, though be aware that some activities may not have opened fully. Springtime (October to November) brings the colourful spring blooms. March to May is the best time to see the autumn foliage and makes for stunning photographs. If you choose to travel at this time, be sure to
pack a good down jacket and a 4 season sleeping bag and liner, as the nights can be very cold. During the shoulder season there is an option to upgrade into basic cabins or hostels at some of the campsites that we stay in along the way. Please budget an extra USD10-15 per night for such upgrades.
The W Walk
We include the full 4 day W walk in Torres del Paine NP as standard in our kitty. This includes transfers to the start and finish points, camping equipment, full board and the services of an English speaking local guide throughout the trip.
The W walk involves 4 days of trekking and 3 overnight stays away from the truck. Your tents will be set up at pre-booked campsites at Paine Grande, Los Cuernos and Las Torres, and meals included. It is important to bear in mind that you will have to carry your own personal effects for the duration of the trek, e.g. sleeping mat, sleeping bag, clothes, toiletries, snacks, water, etc. Some days of the W walk can be shortened for those wishing to trek slightly shorter distances, for example on Day 2 it is possible to trek to the first view point and return to Paine Grande via the same route, reducing the trek by half. It is possible to hire porters for the W walk at a cost of CLP150,000 per porter. Their maximum load is 15kg. We recommend that you put your bag into a waterproof liner or dry sack before giving it to a porter. In high season (mid November to mid March) we recommended contacting your travel consultant to book your porter in advance.
For anyone who wishes to stay at our base camp, this can be arranged in advance through your travel consultant. This package will include camping and full board at our base camp at Camping Pehoe, as well as the opportunity to join the W walkers for guided single day hikes to Glacier Grey and the Las Torres viewpoint. Transfers will be provided your crew in the truck. Please note that the price is the same whether you choose to stay at the base camp, or take part in the full W walk; however in order for us to make arrangements for meal provisions, you must tell us in advance if you will not be trekking the W walk.
Contingency Emergency Fund
Sometimes, civil or political unrest, or reasons beyond Dragoman's control (e.g. a natural disaster), can mean that an itinerary is disrupted and we have to make a contingency plan. This may involve hiring alternate transport or even the whole group flying over an area. Although Dragoman will help organise travel arrangements, in circumstances outside Dragoman's control you will be required to contribute the additional costs involved and therefore we ask you to bring the equivalent of USD400 as a contingency fund. In almost all cases trips run smoothly and this fund is therefore never used. We also recommend that you bring an internationally recognised credit or charge card with a decent limit in case of emergencies, such as medical treatment en route, or even the need to be repatriated; though these occurrences are rare. Remember that travel insurance policies in some instances only refund you for expenses after you have already paid out.
A Few Rules
We expect all group members to act respectfully towards our staff and other group members. Bullying will not be tolerated. Engaging in commercial or exploitative sexual activities, committing acts of violence or threatening violence towards local people, other group members or any member of our staff is not allowed. Any customer engaging in such activities will be required to leave the trip immediately with no refund of the trip price. You must at all times comply with the laws, customs, foreign exchange and drug regulations of all countries visited and conduct yourself in accordance with our responsible travel policy. Any customer found contravening such laws or regulations will be required to leave the trip immediately with no refund of the trip price. Although we are aware that in some parts of the world taking, carrying or selling drugs, or carrying weapons may be legal, it is not acceptable for Dragoman customers and our tour leaders have the right to ask you to leave the trip immediately with no refund of the trip price if you are found to be engaging in such activities.
Issues on the trip
While we always endeavour to provide the best possible holiday experience, due to the nature of travel and the areas we visit sometimes things can and do go wrong. Should any issue occur while you are on your trip, it is imperative that you discuss this with your group leader or our local partner straight away so that they can do their best to rectify the problem and save any potential negative impact on the rest of your trip. We recognise that there may be times when your group leader may not be able to resolve a situation to your satisfaction. If this is the case please contact our customer relations department on customer-relations@dragoman.co.uk. You may also choose to provide details in your feedback questionnaire which we ask you to complete at the end of your trip, but we do ask you to be aware that it is very difficult for us to provide any practical help after the trip is complete
Triple Share
Not available.
Children
Children must be 18 years old or over and share a room with parents at all times. Children are charged the same price as adults.
Tour Documentation
Final documentation will be provided approximately 30 days prior to travel.
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