A TASTE OF ARGENTINA

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A TASTE OF ARGENTINA Northern Argentina is a region of fascinating diversity, where urban delights contrast with vineyards, valleys and mountain ranges.

estates of Mendoza. This document aims to give you all the information that you require for a smooth and comfortable trip to Argentina.

Your included meal guide: B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner DAY 1: UK to Buenos Aires Depart London on your scheduled, overnight flight to Buenos Aires, via Sao Paulo.

1 A TASTE OF ARGENTINA Northern Argentina is a region of fascinating diversity, where urban delights contrast with vineyards, valleys and mountain ranges. This 9-day tour of the region moves from the colourful neighbourhoods of Buenos Aires to the cowboy ranches of Cardales, remote villages nestled in the Andean foothills and the world-renowned wine estates of Mendoza. This document aims to give you all the information that you require for a smooth and comfortable trip to Argentina. Please take the time to read this dossier to familiarise yourself with all the aspects of our tour. It includes important information such as airline and hotel details and visa requirements. Your included meal guide: B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner DAY 1: UK to Buenos Aires Depart London on your scheduled, overnight flight to Buenos Aires, via Sao Paulo. DAY 2: Buenos Aires D On arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel. In the afternoon, set out for a tour of cosmopolitan Buenos Aires. Start at Plaza de Mayo, a square that serves as the historical, political and cultural centre of the city, then admire the diverse architectural styles of the city as you walk down Avenida de Mayo into the neighborhood of San Telmo, one of the oldest in the city and renowned for its bohemian style. Going further south, arrive at the colourful port neighbourhood of La Boca, home to the vivid houses and murals of Caminito street. Continue onward through the modern district of Puerto Madero, finally arriving at La Recoleta, an elegant residential area that showcases the classic buildings of the city. Return to your hotel to refresh yourself before dinner and a tango show at El Querandi, a long-standing, traditional restaurant. DAY 3: Buenos Aires B/L/D Journey into the locality of Cardeles for a full-day tour of Estancia Santa Susana, a ranch famed for its gauchos, or South American cowboys. Your tour begins in the pub where you can dine on meat empanadas and wine before sampling the authentic barbecue dishes synonymous with Argentinian cuisine. After lunch, enjoy an entertaining performance of dance and musical folklore, a tango demonstration, and an exhibition of roping and ring games as the gauchos display their horsemanship. Horses and carriages are also available for those interested in freely roaming the countryside. In the late afternoon, a light meal is of mate tea and sweet casseroles will be served before you return to Buenos Aires, where dinner will be at a local restaurant. DAY 4: Buenos Aires to Salta B Transfer to the airport in the early morning for your flight to Salta. After checking into your hotel, explore the city on an afternoon tour. Salta is hailed as one of Argentina s most picturesque cities, due largely to the attractive contrast between its colonial buildings and modern architecture. Visit some of the landmarks most representative of the colonial times, including the Church and the Convent of San Francisco and the Basilica Cathedral, then view the well-preserved sarcophagi and everyday objects of an Inca family at MAAM Museum. Travel onward to the hill of Cerro San Bernardo where you can take in panoramic views of the city and surrounding valley before your tour ends at the craft market of Mercado Artesanal, where you ll have the chance to browse through regional pottery, baskets, textiles, tapestries and ponchos. DAY 5: Salta B/L Surrounded by rivers and a belt of vineyards, the picturesque town of Cafayate is the site of today s excursion. Take a scenic drive through valleys and past dramatic rock formations as you make your way to Piatelli winery. Discover how the traditional wines of the region are produced and enjoy a wine tasting before lunch at a traditional restaurant downtown. Next, visit the colonial church and Museum of Vine and Wine in the town centre before your drive back to your hotel. En route to Salta, stop at several places of interest, included the well-placed Tres Cruces viewpoint and Posta de las Cabras, a rustic cafe set in remote, natural surroundings. DAY 6: Salta B/L/D Uncover the mighty Andean range on today s full-day tour of mountainous villages and age-old ruins. Pass though the village of Campo Quijano, the gateway of the Andes as you journey to Santa Rosa de Tastil, one of the most important pre-inca sites of the region. Wander amongst its historic ruins and museums then enjoy a packed lunch before travelling onward to the town of San Antonio de los Cobres where you ll have the chance to board the Train to the Clouds *, one of South America s most extraordinary rail journeys. Soak in extraordinary scenery as you pass through desert-like landscapes to the Polvorilla Viaduct which, sitting at 4,200 meters, is the most impressive engineering feat of the last century. Your train returns to San Antonio de los Cobres, where you will disembark for your transfer to Salta. DAY 7: Salta to Mendoza B Transfer to the airport for your flight to Mendoza, the source of the Malbec wine grape, where you ll have an evening at leisure to relax or explore the town. DAY 8: Mendoza B/L/D Nestled in the foothills of the Andes, Mendoza teems with vineyards and dramatic valleys. A wine tour through the district of Luján de Cuyo leads from one winery to the next, giving you well-rounded insight into the Malbec wine-making process and ample opportunity for wine tastings. Lunch will be served at one of the wineries visited before you continue your exploration of the numerous wine estates of the area. In the late afternoon, return to your hotel, re-joining your group in the evening for your farewell dinner in a local restaurant DAY 9: Mendoza to the UK or extension B After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your return flight to the UK, via Sao Paulo, or continue on to your chosen extension. 1

2 A TASTE OF ARGENTINA TOUR DOSSIER ACCOMMODATION DETAILS & MAP Buenos Aires (2 nights) 4 Kenton Palace Buenos Aires 1 Number of nights 3 Salta Salta (3 nights) 4 Alejandro I Hotel Address: Balcarce 252, 4400 Salta, Argentina Phone: Mendoza (2 nights) 4 Amerian Executive Mendoza Hotel Address: San Lorenzo 660, 5500 Mendoza, Argentina Phone: Air Mendoza 2 Argentina 2 Buenos Aires Accommodation All accommodation is 4 and features an en suite bathroom, heating/ air-conditioning and TV. Sunspot Tours has visited and inspected all of the hotels to ensure that they meet the high standards of service which we require for our clients. If the hotels detailed are not available, alternatives will be used of a similar standard. Please be advised, the hotels do not offer tea and coffee making facilities. Therefore, we suggest that you bring a travel kettle and tea/coffee supplies with you if you wish to have these in your room. Please note: the hotels listed are provided for guidance only and final confirmation of your accommodation will be sent in a document, along with your final flight information, approximately 10 days before you travel. Meals Breakfast is western style and served in the hotel each morning, however if you are departing from your hotel early in the morning then tea/coffee and pastries will be provided. Lunch and dinner where stated will be taken at local restaurants, as a packed lunch or at your hotel. A variety of restaurants are visited giving you the chance to experience a range of dishes. Your initial flight is to Buenos Aires International Airport, via Sao Paulo, with LATAM Airlines (LA), departing from London Heathrow Terminal 3. IMPORTANT: Please note that final flight details will be confirmed on your e-ticket and final documentation which will be sent to you approximately 10 days before departure. Baggage Allowance Each passenger is entitled to 23kg of hold luggage plus 1 item of hand luggage not exceeding in size and 1 personal item such as a handbag, briefcase or laptop case. Weight restrictions will be finalized on your e-ticket receipt. Should you wish to take additional luggage you will need to pay extra at check-in. Check-in should be at least 3 hours before departure. Please Note: It is compulsory to recheck luggage in Sao Paulo when connecting with a domestic flight. Airport Extras If you wish to arrange airport car parking, lounges or accommodation at preferential rates, we recommend you book this in advance with Holiday Extras. Tel , quoting HX313. ON YOUR ARRIVAL On your arrival into Buenos Aires you will be met by a representative from our local agent, Eurotur, holding a sign displaying: Sunspot Tours. The Sunspot Tours/Eurotur representative will show you to your transfer vehicle. If you need to contact your representative during you stay the details are: Eurotur Viamonte 486, Buenos Aires, Argentina Contact number: WHAT YOU NEED FOR YOUR TOUR Visas British citizens currently do not need a tourist visa to enter Argentina. Visa requirements are subject to change and obtaining a visa is the responsibility of the traveller and not Mercury Hol-idays. We recommend you check with your destinations Tourist Board or Embassy prior to de-parture for the most up to date guidelines regarding these. Health and Vaccinations It is your responsibility to check any health and vaccination requirements applicable to your booked arrangements. We can only provide general information about this. Health and hygiene facilities and disease risks vary from country to country. You should take health advice about your own needs as early as possible and in good time before your departure. Sources of information include; your General Practitioner or a specialist clinic. Travel Insurance We strongly recommend that you and all members of your party are suitably insured as soon as you book your holiday. It is a condition of booking that you Emergency contact information When calling from a UK number: / When calling from a local number in Argentina: / When calling from a local number in Buenos Aires: / emergencies@eurotur.tur.ar must have suitable travel insurance. It is important that you purchase travel insurance that suitably covers your participation in whatever activities you may undertake at the time that you make your booking. To assist you with this, we have arranged travel insurance in partnership with Holiday Extras. To arrange your travel insurance with Holiday Extras, please call and quote WK830 for preferential rates. Please ensure you provide us with the name of your insurer, policy number and their 24 hour emergency contact number as soon as possible. Sunspot Tours will not be liable for any costs incurred by you due to your failure to take out suitable travel insurance from the date of booking. This is an escorted tour, meaning that a knowledgeable, local English-speaking guide will accompany you on all excursions. Tipping Tipping is at your discretion; however, we would recommend approximately $3.00-$5.00 per day. Tips are accepted in the local currency, however it is asked that if you do not tip in the local currency that you only pay with notes, as coins cannot be exchanged. 2

A TASTE OF ARGENTINA TOUR DOSSIER Currency Exchange The currency in Argentina is the (Argentinian Peso (ARS). US Dollars are widely accepted should you wish to keep an alternative currency on you.

You will need to take some extra money with you to cover any meals where these are not mentioned on your itinerary and personal purchases, such as souvenirs, drinks and snacks.

Group Size The minimum number of travellers in your group will be 10, and the maximum will be 25.

If we are not able to operate your departure date, then you may be asked to change to a different date and a full refund will be made available to you should this alternative not be suitable.

The decrease in atmospheric pres-sure can make breathing more difficult as the body is not able to take in as much oxygen.

Dur-ing your San WHAT TO PACK Insect repellent and sun cream Comfortable walking shoes Waterproof lightweight jacket Sunglasses and hat Ruck sack Binoculars Camera and charger Loo paper for public

It is advised that at these high altitudes, you keep hydrated and avoid alcohol.

3 A TASTE OF ARGENTINA TOUR DOSSIER Currency Exchange The currency in Argentina is the (Argentinian Peso (ARS). US Dollars are widely accepted should you wish to keep an alternative currency on you. We recommend that you exchange your cur-rency before you leave the UK. You will need to take some extra money with you to cover any meals where these are not mentioned on your itinerary and personal purchases, such as souvenirs, drinks and snacks. Ap-proximately per person should be sufficient for the duration of your tour. Please also bear in mind that there will be several shopping opportunities throughout your tour. Group Size The minimum number of travellers in your group will be 10, and the maximum will be 25. If in the unlikely event there are less than 10 people booked on your tour date, we will endeavour to reduce any disruption to your holiday and try to operate your tour with lower passenger numbers. If we are not able to operate your departure date, then you may be asked to change to a different date and a full refund will be made available to you should this alternative not be suitable. Altitude Sickness Altitude sickness is a common condition that can occur when you ascend to a high altitude (generally higher than 2,500 metres above sea level) quickly. The decrease in atmospheric pres-sure can make breathing more difficult as the body is not able to take in as much oxygen. Most cases are mild with symptoms that can include headache, nausea, dizziness and exhaustion. Dur-ing your San WHAT TO PACK Insect repellent and sun cream Comfortable walking shoes Waterproof lightweight jacket Sunglasses and hat Ruck sack Binoculars Camera and charger Loo paper for public WCs Antonio de los Cobres Tour you will reach a maximum altitude of 13,385ft. Therefore, you may find you experience some symptoms at this altitude. It is advised that at these high altitudes, you keep hydrated and avoid alcohol. If you do experience symptoms of altitude sickness during your tour, ensure you tell your guide immediately who will be able to advise the best thing for you to do. You can contact your GP before you travel for advice on medica-tion for altitude sickness. Itinerary Changes Our intention is to adhere to the day-to-day itinerary as printed; however, order of events and sightseeing may vary according to the local conditions or for operational purposes. For this reason, we have indicated approximate times only. Your local guide will inform you of any schedule changes as they are informed of them. Some road construction and/or weather conditions may lengthen the driving times or sailing conditions. Physical Accessibility This tour is accessible to most people with an average level of fitness and normal mobility. It involves moderate days of walking on uneven paths and small hills and getting on and off coaches. This tour is not suitable for anyone with walking difficulties. Credit Card Information As normal practice you may be asked for your credit card details on check-in at the hotel in order to cover any extras incurred during your stay. If you do not have a credit card, you may be asked for a cash deposit. American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa are widely accepted in hotels. Long sleeve shirt and long trousers Swimwear Personal toiletries A plug adaptor (current is 110V and requires a three prong adaptor) Anti-bacterial hand sanitiser Altitude sickness medication First aid kit containing travel pills, rehydration powder, plasters, stomach settlers, antiseptic creams, aspirin, etc. WEATHER AND CLIMATE Weather can vary quite considerably throughout the year, so please familiarise yourself with the climate charts below. Average temperature: Buenos Aires Average temperature: Salta Average temperature: Mendoza 3

IGUAÇU FALLS EXTENSION If you have not yet booked this fabulous extension, there is still time to do so, please contact your local agent Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984, Iguaçu National

These various trails allow you to get closer to some of the smaller waterfalls as well as enjoy stunning panoramic views at the top of these majestic falls.

Your included meal guide: B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner Day 9: Buenos Aires to Iguaçu B Transfer from your hotel to Buenos Aires for your flight to Iguaçu. Upon arrival transfer to your hotel.

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984, Iguaҫu National Park is home to incredible waterfalls with 275 jumps of water falling from an average height of 70 metres.

Day 12: Iguaçu to Buenos Aires B Transfer from your hotel to the airport for your flight to Buenos Aires where you will spend the evening.

You will need to take some extra money with you to cover any meals not included, drinks and personal purchases such as souvenirs and laundry. This add-on is escorted by a tour guide.

4 IGUAÇU FALLS EXTENSION If you have not yet booked this fabulous extension, there is still time to do so, please contact your local agent Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984, Iguaçu National Park is home to incredible waterfalls with water falling from an average height of 70 metres. Explore the routes of the Upper Circuit, Lower Circuit and Devil s Throat. These various trails allow you to get closer to some of the smaller waterfalls as well as enjoy stunning panoramic views at the top of these majestic falls. This document aims to give you all the information which you will require during your Iguaçu Falls extension. Your included meal guide: B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner Day 9: Buenos Aires to Iguaçu B Transfer from your hotel to Buenos Aires for your flight to Iguaçu. Upon arrival transfer to your hotel. Day 10: Iguaçu B Today you will explore the Argentinian side of the falls. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984, Iguaҫu National Park is home to incredible waterfalls with 275 jumps of water falling from an average height of 70 metres. You will walk along footbridges which offer an awe-inspiring view of the falls. Return to your hotel in the evening. Day 12: Iguaçu to Buenos Aires B Transfer from your hotel to the airport for your flight to Buenos Aires where you will spend the evening. Day 13: Buenos Aires to the UK B Transfer from your hotel to the airport for your flight to the UK. You will need to take some extra money with you to cover any meals not included, drinks and personal purchases such as souvenirs and laundry. This add-on is escorted by a tour guide. Please note This extension takes place after your main tour. Day 11: Iguaçu B Today you will depart on a tour of the Brazilian side of the falls. Return to your hotel and spend the rest of your afternoon at leisure. Average temperature: Iguaçu Iguaçu (3 nights): 3 Hotel San Martin Address: Avenida das Cataratas, 21 Foz do Iguaçu - PR, , Brazil Contact number: Situated just 400 metres from the entrance to the National Park, the Hotel San Martin boasts a large swimming pool is surrounded by beautiful gardens and offers 135 rooms with air-conditioning, minibar and a TV. Buenos Aires (1 night): 4 Kenton Palace Buenos Aires Located in the historic San Telmo district, this hotel offers a spa, sauna, pool and gym in addition to comfortable rooms equipped with air conditioning, LED TV, minibar and safe. Please note: Final hotel and flight details will be confirmed on your e-ticket and final documentation which will be sent to you approximately 10 days before departure. 4

BUENOS AIRES CITY STAY EXTENSION If you have not yet booked this fabulous extension, there is still time to do so, please contact your local agent Discover why so

Buenos Aires provides a seductive mix of stunning European architecture, old-world languor and elegant neighbourhoods where colonial buildings and lively outdoor

Influenced by the great European cities, this eclectic metropolis is guaranteed to captivated your senses during your 2 night stay, the perfect way to complete your

Hotel (2 nights) Your stay will take place at the following hotel: 4 Kenton Palace Buenos Aires on Bed & Breakfast.

minibar and safe. Any alternative hotels or board basis will have been confirmed at booking. Please speak to our reservations department if you are unsure.

5 BUENOS AIRES CITY STAY EXTENSION If you have not yet booked this fabulous extension, there is still time to do so, please contact your local agent Discover why so many people fall in love with the Paris of the Southern Hemisphere. Buenos Aires provides a seductive mix of stunning European architecture, old-world languor and elegant neighbourhoods where colonial buildings and lively outdoor markets can be found at every turn. Influenced by the great European cities, this eclectic metropolis is guaranteed to captivated your senses during your 2 night stay, the perfect way to complete your tour through Patagonia. This document aims to give you all the information which you will require during your extension to Buenos Aires. Hotel (2 nights) Your stay will take place at the following hotel: 4 Kenton Palace Buenos Aires on Bed & Breakfast. Located in the historic San Telmo district, this hotel offers a spa, sauna, pool and gym in addition to comfortable rooms equipped with air conditioning, LED TV, minibar and safe. Any alternative hotels or board basis will have been confirmed at booking. Please speak to our reservations department if you are unsure. You will need to take money with you to cover personal purchases, laundry service, souvenirs, plus lunch, dinner and drinks. Your stay in Buenos Aires is not escorted by a tour guide. All internal transfers are included. Please note This extension takes place after your main tour. Kenton Palace Kenton Palace Please note: Final hotel and flight details will be confirmed on your e-ticket and final documentation which will be sent to you approximately 10 days before departure. 5

EL CALAFATE EXTENSION If you have not yet booked this fabulous extension, there is still time to do so, please contact your local agent Kenton Palace The Patagonian city of El Calafate serves as the

Visitors to the town will be astounded by fantastic views of the Andes, the mighty glaciers cutting through Lago Argentino and the shimmering, emerald waters of the lake itself.

This document aims to give you all the information which you will require during your El Calafate extension.

On arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel, located near Los Glaciares National Park.

glaciers. Your full-day tour will leave you in awe of the glaciers unfathomable beauty. Calving icebergs the size of skyscrapers you may witness the glaciers signature movement as they slowly detach.

At the end of the tour, return to your hotel in Calafate. Day 11: El Calafate B Enjoy a day at leisure to explore El Calafate at your own pace.

Day 13: Buenos Aires to UK B After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your return flight to the UK.

6 EL CALAFATE EXTENSION If you have not yet booked this fabulous extension, there is still time to do so, please contact your local agent Kenton Palace The Patagonian city of El Calafate serves as the gateway to the Perito Moreno Glacier and Los Glaciares National Park. Visitors to the town will be astounded by fantastic views of the Andes, the mighty glaciers cutting through Lago Argentino and the shimmering, emerald waters of the lake itself. This 4-night add-on includes a full-day tour of the glacier - an ideal and relaxing way to explore this region further. This document aims to give you all the information which you will require during your El Calafate extension. Your included meal guide: B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner Day 9: Mendoza to El Calafate B Transfer to the airport for your flight to El Calafate via Buenos Aires. On arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel, located near Los Glaciares National Park. Day 10: El Calafate B The Perito Moreno Glacier is known locally as the Eighth Wonder of the World is the planet s third largest reserve of fresh water and one of the continent s last advancing glaciers. Your full-day tour will leave you in awe of the glaciers unfathomable beauty. Calving icebergs the size of skyscrapers you may witness the glaciers signature movement as they slowly detach. During the tour a walk along the paths on the front of the glacier allow a view of this impressive natural marvel from a different perspective. At the end of the tour, return to your hotel in Calafate. Day 11: El Calafate B Enjoy a day at leisure to explore El Calafate at your own pace. Day 12: El Calafate to Buenos Aires B Transfer to the airport for your flight to Buenos Aires where you will have the remainder of the day at leisure. Day 13: Buenos Aires to UK B After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your return flight to the UK. You will need to take some extra money with you to cover any meals not included, drinks and personal purchases such as souvenirs and laundry. This add-on is partially escorted, meaning that you will be escorted by a local, English-speaking guide on day 10 with the remainder of your extension at leisure. Please note This extension takes place after your main tour. Average temperature: El Calafate El Calafate (3 nights): 3 Sierra Nevada Hotel Address: Av. del Libertador 1888, El Calafate, Santa Cruz, Argentina Contact number: Sierra Nevada is located in El Calafate, 500 meters from Lago Argentino, and offers comfortable accommodation with free bikes and free Wi-Fi in all areas. Amenities include a gym, garden and shared lounge and all rooms have en suite facilities, a balcony, desk, TV, safe and hairdryer. Buenos Aires (1 night): 4 Kenton Palace Buenos Aires Located in the historic San Telmo district, this hotel offers a spa, sauna, pool and gym in addition to comfortable rooms equipped with air conditioning, LED TV, minibar and safe. Please note: Final hotel and flight details will be confirmed on your e-ticket and final documentation which will be sent to you approximately 10 days before departure. 6

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