THE ANDEAN CROSSING RIDE (6 days)

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John Watts
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1 THE ANDEAN CROSSING RIDE (6 days) Ride across pioneer trails in the rural Puelo Valley. In the middle of the Andes Mountains, an exclusive journey into the huaso culture. Enjoy this fantastic adventure: relax in the depths of the pristine Patagonian wilderness, being introduced to the local people s traditional way of life. CHILE TO ARGENTINA Day 1 The trip begins at your hotel (Puerto Varas, near Pueto Montt) where you will meet your tour leader and driver, load the minibus and then, start a three hours drive, crossing the Valdivian forests along the Reloncaví Fjord. Arrive at the Tagua Tagua Lake. Here, time for a great picnic lunch before crossing by ferry. Once we get off the ferry, we drive for another hour or so. At the end of the road we will meet the baqueanos and the Creole horses. Enjoy the outstanding landscapes and cross the Puelo river just as the locals do: by public boat while the horses swim. Load the packhorses and off we go! Accommodation at a local farm. (BL, T, D) (B = breakfast, BL = boxed lunch, T = tea, D = dinner) Timing: 4/5 hrs by car, 30 minutes by ferry and approximately 1,45 hrs horseback. Day 2 Today, after a homemade breakfast, we (the baqueanos local horsemen) will prepare the packhorses. Around the barn we will be fixing the last details of our saddle and stirrups to adapt it to our needs and making our ride comfortable and safe. Our direction today, is into the Ventisqueros valley. We will be crossing amazing, ancient forests and self-sufficient little small holdings during the morning. Stop for lunch and relax. In the afternoon, we will ride cross the wide Ventisqueros River, we will explain how to safely cross beforehand and the baqueanos are rideandes@rideandes.com Tel:

The Valley turns wild and remote, with an incredible flora and devoid of all settlement. We will ride to the Alerce forests on this occasion. Box lunch here and then, ride back to our guest farmhouse.

2 alongside to help. The ride takes us to a remote farm, where the owner will lodge us for 2 nights. (B BL T - D) Timing: 6 to 7 hrs horseback riding. Day 3 After breakfast and packing, we will embark in a gentle ride up the valley, crossing the river once more to approach a glacier. The Valley turns wild and remote, with an incredible flora and devoid of all settlement. We will ride to the Alerce forests on this occasion. Box lunch here and then, ride back to our guest farmhouse. Later, there is a chance to walk around the area or simply relax. Another unforgettable day. (B BL T - D) Timing: 4 hrs horseback riding Day 4 This morning we will set off on a full-day ride towards "La Pasarela del Rio Puelo", an important local hanging (suspension) bridge crucial for communication between the local inhabitants and the outside world. This area is particularly spectacular due to its huge waterfalls and rapids. Stop for a picnic lunch near the bridge. In the afternoon, guests will cross a wild, old primary forest before arriving at our cottage. We will reach Las Rocas Lake and sail 10 minutes to Las Bandurrias Island. Accommodation and a great dinner at this enchanting and cosy cottage. We will stay two nights here. (B BL T - D) Timing: 6 to 7 hrs horseback riding. Day 5 Another fantastic adventure waits for us today. We will enjoy a 2 hrs ride and visit the Blue Lake "Lago Azul" with its crystal clear water and abundant fish life. Majestic peaks and stunning landscapes will not escape your attention! Picnic and relax on the shore of the lake. After lunch our ride takes us deep into the forest along the mountain slopes. We will reach the southern part of this lake passing through the typical cold jungle, Valdivian-type rainforest with its ancient Alerce trees (Fitzroya Cupresoide) as well as other local giants such as the "Coihue" and "Arrayanes" (the cold tree ). After leaving the horses in a safe place we will return by boat back to the Island to enjoy the rest of the afternoon there. (B, BL, T, D) Timing: 5 to 6hrs horseback riding.

Day 6 After breakfast, say goodbye to our hostess and depart to the shore of the lake. The launch will take us to where the baqueanos and horses spent the night. Today we will ride just half the day.

There are great views of the Inferior Lake. Then we will leave the horses and cross the Puelo Lake by boat into the National park after going though the Argentine border formalities.

3 Day 6 After breakfast, say goodbye to our hostess and depart to the shore of the lake. The launch will take us to where the baqueanos and horses spent the night. Today we will ride just half the day. Having passports at hand we will reach the Mountain Police Station, "Retén de Carabineros". This leads to the border crossing, close to the edge of the River. There are great views of the Inferior Lake. Then we will leave the horses and cross the Puelo Lake by boat into the National park after going though the Argentine border formalities. A vehicle will be waiting to take us to El Bolsón. Lunch at a great local restaurant and time for to buy some souvenirs or explore the town. Travel by minibus to San Carlos de Bariloche where the trip will end. Timing: 3 ½hrs horseback riding, 30 minutes sail on motorboat. Private bus transfer to the town of El Bolsón, 20 minutes, and two and a half more hours to the town of San Carlos de Bariloche. (B, L) End of our services in Bariloche. Ask for airport transfers and lodgings in Chile and/ or Argentina or any other activities/services we might be able to help you with.

What s included: All In/out private transfers, transportation by minibus & motor jet boats, ferry crossing, full board meals (including ½ bottle of wine per person at dinner), saddle horses, pack

4 Technical References Group size: Min 2 / Max 8 People. How many days: The expedition lasts 6 days and 5 nights. Riding on all 6 days. Route from/to: From Puerto Varas, close to Puerto Montt in Chile on the shore of the Pacific Ocean across the Andes, ending in Bariloche Argentina. What s included: All In/out private transfers, transportation by minibus & motor jet boats, ferry crossing, full board meals (including ½ bottle of wine per person at dinner), saddle horses, pack horses, 5 night accommodation including 2 nights at a fabulous retreat on the private Bandurrias island, local horsemen (guides & helpers) and tour leader (Spanish, French & English spoken), VHF radio communication equipment. Not included Everything not mentioned in the programme from day 1 to day 6. Transfer and lodging the day before day 1 of the itinerary, nor the last night at Bariloche (day 6). Please let us know if we can help you to organise these services (hotels, airport transfers, hikes, Santiago/Buneos Aires services- city tours etc ). Tips for guide and team (discretionary). In case of emergency, evacuation for example, if a helicopter is needed, is not included (appropriate medical insurance mandatory, we are in a remote area. Radio contact during most of the ride, first aid kits carried). Food. Key- B: Breakfast, BL: Box lunch, T: Tea, D: Dinner. Accommodation Nights 1, 2 & 3 We are invited into the home of local pioneers for a unique opportunity to experience their way of life. The extremely charming but often rustic houses offer basic accommodation mostly in twin, triple or dormitory rooms with shared bathroom and hot shower (one for the all group). Sometimes, a large room with mattresses. Food is organically grown and sourced from local gardens; dishes are cooked deliciously on fire stoves as well as the Chilean asado (BBQ). Night 4 and 5 You will stay on a private island. The island has a woodland path circumnavigating the shore, small private beaches and two charming cottages. Guests will stay in a comfortable and well-equipped 2-story cottage heated by firewood; the same system heats water for showers.

5 The bathrooms offer a splendid view of a southern coigues forest while from the living, the dining areas and the great sundeck you can see the small beach next to the quay. Here you will find stunning views of Lake Las Rocas and the surrounding peaks. The cottage offers accommodation for up to 6 people and the main house features two further guest rooms with original French country décor up for 3 or 4 guests more. It is a very cosy and warm place where we will share dinner and appetizers with our island hostess. The main house is surrounded by a flower garden that includes butterfly bushes, fuchsia and camellia and it is adjacent to the main house. This garden is our hostess pride and joy. Hours riding The time spent riding daily is not more than three hours in the morning and three or four more in the afternoon, depending on the day. Please note that on day 1 we will do a short horse ride to reach the first night it will be 1,45. Riding times given are approximate. Season Rides are offered from 1 st November to late March. There are a lot of horse flies during January. Riding Difficulty The trip is an exciting but not demanding one, although some days will be longer than others when we have to cover a particular distance. Some days, lot of river crossings which are great fun and allow riders to experience the local way of travelling. Some steep up hills and undulating terrain could turn just a bit more demanding if the weather is not good. This adventure ride is an excellent way of managing lots of different terrain and being able to ride one of the toughest horse breeds in the world. Clients may canter on open ground - but there are few opportunities, we trot in the forest, the ride is generally a relaxing, steady pace. Guides We believe that tour leaders and host/hostess are the key for a successful and memorable trip; we use only experienced guides with great knowledge of the area. They hold a certificate in WFR (wilderness first responder) and highly passionate about the Puelo Valley. Guides are trained to offer all the help and assistance to ensure the trip runs smoothly. Local horsemen ( Huaso guides or baqueanos") will always be there to help and look after you and your horses. They are a great support for the whole group and well attuned to the regional climate. They have an uncanny sense of predicting weather! Safety Our qualified staff is provided with safety equipment including a portable radio with available connections to radio networks; in case of emergencies we have access to direct telephone lines through this 2-way radio. Life jackets are provided for river and lake crossings. We use international adventure tourism insurance but clients must have their own travel insurance that covers them for the activities on such a tour. As mentioned, our guides are qualified and have participated in specialised first aid courses USA organised: WFR (Wildlife First Responder)

6 Visa A valid passport document with visa for both Argentina and Chile is required. Check the current advice for nationals of your country. Health and Vaccinations No special vaccinations are required for this area of South America. Clients with special medication should bring enough for the trip. It is advisable to carry your own personal first aid kit. No pharmacies after day 1. There are a lot of bees & wasps in the area, the area is remote, evacuation is not easy therefore this trip is not advisable for anyone with a severe allergy to bee/wasp stings. Packing and Clothing You may need: Jodhpurs OR full length leather chaps trousers underneath OR comfortable jeans or trousers preferably with leather half chaps*, long sleeved shirts for sun protection, t shirts (useful if it is hot and to wear as layers for changing temperatures), comfortable riding shoes / boots - these should be suitable & safe for both walking & riding - an ankle length jodhpur or 'Timberland' style (if not too wide) boot is ideal, worn with half chaps for riding; boots should have soles with good grip as there will be several occasions where you dismount to lead the horses - smooth soled riding boots are not advisable; remember also that it can be hot so long rubber boots are not ideal), warm windproof fleece and / or jumper particularly for evenings around the campfire, good waterproof jacket - the weather in the Andes is unpredictable and varied, and you should be prepared. Whilst the Argentine side of the range is semi-desert, the Chilean side is a rainforest. Waterproof trousers, wide brimmed hat (which stays on - make sure it has a string!) or hard hat if preferred**, sunglasses with string to attach around your neck (wrap-around for contact lens wearers), sun block / high factor sun cream (the sun is very strong), lip protection, riding gloves if required, small day pack / money belt / bum bag / cotton photographer s waistcoat***, scarf / bandana (it can be dusty), socks and underwear, NB Two full changes of clothes are usually enough. For afternoon /evening/ night Shorts / cotton trousers Change of shoes / gym shoes / deck shoes Swimming costume & towel (sandals / plastic shoes for bathing in rivers / lakes) Warm wind proof fleece / Jumper Other items Plastic bags for organising / packing clothes / sun creams etc. Good insect repellent Tissues / Wet-Ones or similar travel wipes Small alarm clock Camera, film and spare battery / memory card Binoculars can be useful Washing kit (bio-degradable soap/ shampoo etc), personal medicines****, contact lenses etc. if required Torch (head torches are ideal when camping) Books / reading / writing material Spanish dictionary / phrasebook

7 Basic first aid kit for personal use Microfiber towel Notes *If you ride in jeans or loose trousers, we suggest you also wear knee length half chaps (or long chaps) to stop rubbing and for protection when riding through bamboo and bush; **we strongly advise that all clients bring and wear a riding helmet for their own protection (these are not supplied and you will need to bring your own). ***Saddlebags are provided but are not waterproof. You are requested to bring plastic bags (such as bin bags or dry bags available at camping and sailing shops) to protect your belongings in your saddlebags in case of persistent rain. Sometimes extracting small items from a saddlebag on the go can be difficult and it can be useful to have something more easily accessible in which to carry personal items such as sun cream, sunglasses, small cameras etc. You can use a small daypack, bum bag/fanny pack or money belt but may find a cotton photographer waistcoat a useful and more comfortable alternative. **** If you plan to carry any medicines that are not easily recognisable or are available only on prescription, it is wise to take a letter / prescription from your doctor confirming what they are. This is also important if you plan to carry homeopathic medicines / tablets which may not be commonly recognised - to avoid any potential problems taking these through customs you should check requirements with the relevant consulate before you travel. You will need your own water bottle for the ride - two half-litre bottles generally work better than one larger one as they fit more easily into pockets etc. Water is from local supplies and streams, rivers etc. It is clean (very close to the source) and perfectly safe to drink - but if you are nervous about drinking the water you should take your own purification tablets, as bottled water is not available. Packing The day before the ride, your guide will visit you at 6PM at your lodgement to give you a briefing and explain you how the next days will be. He will bring you a waterproof bag and will ask you to separate luggage for the first day from your main luggage. Please check the packing and clothing list for choosing the luggage you will separate for the first 3 nights. The main luggage will go with you but will continue direct to Isla Las Bandurrias. You will meet it in the 4 th night. The guide will also give you some saddlebags so you can fill them like a daily pack. Please pack luggage in a soft hold all or roll - a good quality duffel bag with strong zips (waterproof ideally) will be best. Hard suitcases cannot be carried by packhorses and rucksacks with frames are not ideal. Your bags will be packed into protecting sacks / bags that make up the pack. There is a weight limit of 10kg for the separate luggage you will take for the first 3 nights. It is possible to do laundry if you are staying in any one place more than one night. Weather Please remember that the temperatures in the mountains can fluctuate a great deal and it might be cold (down to freezing) in the early mornings and in the evenings, but up to 28 / 32 C at midday. It can also rain at any time! To cope with changing temperatures, it is a good idea to wear layers, which you can gradually take off, remembering that several thin layers are warmer than one thick one. Silk or thin thermal underwear (or a close fitting polo neck jumper / long sleeved T shirt and leggings) is a good idea if

you feel the cold and is useful for sleeping in. Please also remember to take a good waterproof and that space for luggage on the ride will be strictly limited - please only bring essentials!

8 you feel the cold and is useful for sleeping in. Please also remember to take a good waterproof and that space for luggage on the ride will be strictly limited - please only bring essentials! Flight Connections Daily flights from Santiago international airport to Puerto Montt (Chile) and Buenos Aires to Bariloche (then cross the Andes on a very easy/safe bus route to Puerto Varas to start the ride (we can help with these logistics). Important Notes See health section above regarding wasps & bees. In January, horse flies proliferate in the whole southern part of Chile and Argentina. They do not harm but are a nuisance and are attracted to dark clothing. Take this into account when selecting your clothing. You can review with us any points that will affect your travel plans for example where the trip starts or whether it includes a Pre-Trip Option or Post-Trip Extension. Chilean Creole Horse & Tack The horses are of the Chilean Creole breed and are very gentle, strong and tame. They have a firm step, are in good health and well trained for the Andean terrain. Saddles are the same as the ones traditionally used in the region by locals, completed with a sheepskin cover. They are really comfortable and excellent for long distance riding. Delicatessen The food on the trip will be a mix of a special blend of flavours and ingredients consisting of an ethnic variety but mostly Creole-Chilean cuisine. A traditional wood stove gives a special flavour to the dishes. Depending on the season, it will be possible to taste a delicious rainbow trout or fontinalis. Vegetables and fruits are superb and the variety of the region's berries is impressive. Vegetarian dishes are also a great delicious option but we do need to know if you prefer this option at the time of making your booking. Drinking water is crystal clear, safe to drink and tastes delicious. The island also has a personal collection of a good variety of wines that you can buy at a very good price. Tipping In South America it is customary to tip if you feel that the services given were great. This is common in restaurants (10% of the bill), to hotel and airport porters, hotel staff, etc. This tip is not the salary of the services providers. It is a gift that shows your gratitude to them for all of those services they give you in a very special way. We will give you some suggestions regarding this issue at the briefing about the trip. Consider around U$70 per each of the riders for the local staff in the whole ride and U$40 per each of the riders for the bilingual guide. RATES PER PERSON IN AMERICAN DOLLARS 2 People 3 People 4 People 5-8 People 9-10 People PTV - BCR

9 *Riders over 90Kg/ 195lb are required to hire an extra horse to allow alternation in the morning and in the afternoon due to limited size of Chilean Creole horses. Extra horse price USD 180. BOOKING CONDITIONS Reservation: Prepayment upon confirmation 20%. Terms and conditions: We stipulate that the 80% balance must be sent at least 30 days before trip starts. Please contact us if you have any questions or doubts, to confirm the payment process. CANCELLATION CONDITIONS 60 days : prepayment will be refunded days : 80 % of total will be refunded days : 50 % of total will be refunded days : 0% of total will be refunded We cannot be held responsible for any extra cost in the event of cancellation or extension due to weather circumstances or safety considerations. In case of "last minute" cancellation the payment is not refundable but the costumer may apply to another departure date during the same or next season. In case of choosing a different season the fair may vary depending also on the number of persons participating in the ride. We greatly appreciate our beautiful country and we make efforts to protect and to preserve our environment. When visiting us, please be sure you do the same. RIDE ANDES offers the above ride, run by a local Chilean company over 10 years ago, using the blue print set up in Ecuador, the owner of Ride Andes helped set up and then was tour leader for the first ridden Across the Andes tours and since then sends guests on these trips on a very regular basis. Tel: rideandes@rideandes.com Ride Andes: specialist riding tour operator in South America since British owned and operated. Scheduled departures and private tours in Ecuador, Argentina, Chile and Uruguay throughout the year. Accompanied by the skilled local horsemen of each region. Ride Andes (Paramo Places S.A.) terms and conditions apply. A booking is confirmed only upon receipt of the corresponding deposit. We reserve the right to alter the itinerary due to circumstances beyond our control.

10 Appropriate medical insurance is mandatory and the responsibility of each guest/booking agent. It is the responsibility of the individual guest/booking agent to ensure that participants have the necessary riding skills to take part in the tour chosen. Guests are strongly advised to wear their riding helmets while riding. Guests will be required to sign a responsibility release before starting a tour. NOTE: THE CUT OFF POINT IS ONE MONTH prior to the start date i.e the itinerary (and/or cost) will be determined depending on numbers booked one month prior to the tour start date. Any reduction in cost that we may be abe to offer after one month prior to the tour start date will be returned to clients minus any bank fees/money transfer costs paid by Ride Andes both receiving or returning payments.

Grande Traversée, Chile

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