PATAGONIA QUICK START GUIDE. the professional travel guide to Patagonia

Transcription

1 PATAGONIA QUICK START GUIDE the professional travel guide to Patagonia

2 Patagonia Unravel the myth, become legend Why Abercrombie & Kent? At A&K, we have the capability to upgrade a great trip into the perfect experience. Here are just a couple of ways in which we can transform our guest s journey into an unforgettable one: Meet & Greet and priority customs and immigration guide in Ezeiza and Santiago Airports. Best-positioned hotel rooms to suit the guests needs, tastes and requirements. On-site surprises. Exclusively-created itineraries to suit individual needs. Centrally-managed quality control and 24/7 contact. Abercrombie & Kent A&K was founded in 2005, with the opening of the Buenos Aires office. Our team comprises 20 full-time professionals and numerous semi-permanent staff throughout the country. At A&K, we are aware that our fine guests are always looking for unforgettable experiences that enhance and change their lives, and that s why we have especially designed services for them to enjoy the most wonderful time of their lives. As we understand that details and customized experiences are the base for seamless travel experiences, we complement our services with special moments, surprises and destinations that only A&K guests have privileged access to. Abercrombie & Kent A&K has operated since 2001, with the opening of our office in Santiago. Currently, our team comprises 33 full-time experts and semi-permanent staff throughout the country. One of our principal goals is to ensure once-in-a-lifetime experiences for every single one of our guests. Our facilities allow them to discover a higher level of service from the very second they step off the plane, to the moment they return home. They know that there s a committed team working just for them! Upon arrival, guests are granted a metaphorical gold pass, which guarantees exclusive access to unique and exciting activities. Your Key Contacts in & Mario Muzzio Regional Managing Director South America Verónica Curtis Country Manager A&K Brigitte Lämmle Country Manager A&K Mario was born and raised in Buenos Aires and has already enjoyed over 20 years in our fascinating industry. This, combined with his passion and energy, made it clear that Mario should be trusted with the regional role, in which he has already fulfilled and exceeded expectations. With his regional expertise and innovative vision, Mario is ensuring the continuation of the company s leading position in the luxury travel industry. mmuzzio@abercrombiekent.com.ar Verónica was responsible for the original A&K start-up in back in As part of a team of three, she led from an operations, administrative and HR recruiting perspective. Since then, she has significantly grown the team, helping to make it one of the most important DMCs in the country. Veronica is a natural leader, great at organizing, coordinating and teaching her team to a high standard. Brigitte was born in Germany and started her travel career in Now, with over 15 years of experience in the field, which includes working for local and luxury DMCs, Brigitte has come to A&K, bringing with her a deep passion for travel and for in particular. She fell in love with this charming country and has a desire to share her feelings with the world! vcurtis@abercrombiekent.com.ar blammle@abercrombiekent.cl

3 Abercrombie & Kent Keep Exploring PATAG O N I A WHY PATAGONIA? Patagonia is a vast region shared by and and is a place that, for centuries, has amazed both locals and guests alike with its immense glaciers, blue lakes, snow-capped mountains and endemic fauna. Patagonia is very much unspoilt and so extensive that even today, there are still places where no person has set foot. A visit with A&K to this tranquil part of the world promises close encounters with nature, complemented by the best lodges and cruises, all in total comfort and style. RECOMMENDED ACTIVITIES Fly Fishing: Patagonia is a well-known destination for fly fishing. Lovers of the sport need not leave their passion at home thanks to our specially-created tours and experiences. Instead, they can delve right in and continue their hobby in one of the most barren and beautiful places on earth. Off road Excursions: One of the best ways to discover the wild lands of Patagonia is on four wheels. Become a pioneer and lose yourself in places where no one has set foot or tyre before. Our off-road excursions allow guests to go that extra mile, literally, and explore the rivers, mountains and wide, empty spaces in complete privacy. Outdoor Sports: Patagonia is certainly not a destination for staying indoors. Despite the best facilities, amenities and accommodation in our recommended hotels, we re in no doubt that guests will want to get out and about as soon as possible. Kayaking, horseback riding, trekking and hiking are just a short list of activities available. Wildlife Watching: This true sanctuary for wildlife offers an opportunity of close encounters with endemic animals in an environment of freedom, adventure and mutual respect. Some of the species that call this place home include guanacos, pumas, condors, deer, penguins, whales, orcas, Patagonian swans and woodpeckers. MUST SEES Torres del Paine, : Known for its jagged peaks, the electric-blue icebergs that detach from immense glaciers and golden pampas (lowlands) that shelter rare wildlife such as guanacos, a relation of the llama. The three granite towers from which the park takes its name and the horn-shaped peaks (Cuernos del Paine) are some of its most iconic sites. Bariloche, : This is a destination that charms everyone who visits it, not just because of the scenic lakes and picturesque mountains that compose it, but also because of the wide array of activities on offer. From hiking, kayaking or snowboarding outdoors, to tasting some of the region s finest chocolate in the cosy and colourful, fairy-tale villages. Austral Road, : South of Varas, the population thins and the vegetation thickens. This region, known as the Austral Road, runs through Coyhaique to Villa O Higgins (latitude 4-49 ). On the way guests will see some of the best fly fishing lodges, one of the world s top rivers for rafting and awe-inspiring glaciers. Glacier Perito Moreno, : One of the world s few advancing glaciers, it grinds its way down the range into an arm of the enormous Lago Argentino. Roughly every three years the glacier cuts off the flow of water into the lake, causing great accumulation of pressure, which eventually breaks the glacier s characteristic arch. BEST TIME TO GO Given that Patagonia is a diverse land offering a variety of environments and activities, there are naturally different times of the year to visit this astonishing place, depending on what you want to do and see. Weather Watchers: Summertime is great for visiting Patagonia but guests should know that this is also when the region is prone to its strongest winds. In the winter some of the most popular hikes and multi-day treks are unavailable, although this time of year does allow for some beautiful day-hike options. Adventure Lovers: Simply being in Patagonia is an adventure on its own! However, different times of the year are better for different activities. Kayaking, trekking, mountain biking or horse-back riding are best in the warmer months, whereas snow sports are going to be better from July to September. Wildlife Lovers: Rheas, guanacos, foxes, pumas, pudus (the world s smallest deer!) and condors are just some of the species that have made Patagonia worth visiting all year round. However, the best time to spot them is mid-summer. Right whales, penguins, sea lions and sea elephants are other species that can be seen at different times of the year. December 21 - March 21 March 21 - June 21 June 21 - September 21 September 21 - December 21

4 Abercrombie & Kent PATAGONIA Keep Exploring A&K-STYLE LAKE CROSSING Puma :00 AM - Departure from Varas 9:00 AM - Comfort stop 11:00 AM - Customs in border 1:00 PM - Villa La Angostura or en route lunch 1:30 PM - Yacht departure to Isla Victoria 2:10 PM - Light lunch 2:30 PM - Short trek on Isla Victoria 3:00 PM - Departure to Tunkelen 3:40 PM - Disembarkation 4:00 PM - Transfer to Llao Llao Puyehue Puyehue 2 Villa La Angostura Geoffroy s Cat Fox Frutillar Octay Lake Llanquihue Rupanco Osorno Volcano Puntiagudo Todos los Santos Lake Vicente Pérez Tronador Blest Alegre Frías Llao Llao Lake 3 San Carlos de Bariloche Varas 1 Montt Calbuco Volcano Alerce Andino Boar Stops Elevations By land Border One bus Other Ports National Park By water :00 AM to 4:30 PM One vessel REGULAR LAKE CROSSING Huemul Red Deer Guanaco One-day crossing - :00 AM to 9:30 PM Two-day Crossing: Day one - 9:30 AM to 1:00 PM with overnight in Peulla Day two - 9:00 AM to :30 PM *Timing and overnights are referential and subject to change. *Crossing can be: Montt-Bariloche or viceverse. *Options operate daily, all year round. Frutillar Octay Varas 2 1 Rupanco Lake Llanquihue Montt Puyehue Osorno Volcano Calbuco Volcano 3 Puntiagudo Alerce Andino Todos los Santos Lake Puyehue Vicente Pérez 4 Tronador 7 5 Blest Alegre Frías Villa La Angostura Llao Llao Lake San Carlos de Bariloche Condor Stops Other Ports Elevations National Park By land By water Border Several buses Several vessels

5 Abercrombie & Kent Keep Exploring PATAG O N I A PUERTO NATALES - EL CALAFATE CROSSING Magellanic Woodpecker 3 El Toro Lake El Calafate Los Glaciares Striped Woodpecker Lazo Coscoroba Swan 2 Cancha Carrera Torres del Paine Cerro Castillo 1 Black-Necked Swan Dorotea Natales Stops Elevations By land One bus Border National Park Customs and border Five hours USHUAIA - PUNTA ARENAS OR PUNTA ARENAS-USHUAIA CROSSING an Flamingo Penguin Whale Orca Commerson s Dolphin Antarctica Stops Border Australis Cruises (one vessel) National Park By water Three of four nights * Route is subject to change, depending on departure point and program

6 Abercrombie & Kent Our Favorite Hotels in the capitals and Patagonia PATAG O N I A The Singular Santiago, A hotel built to harmonize and blend the traditional and fascinating Lastarria neighborhood, combining the style of early 20th century buildings with neoclassical-french architectural influences and sophistication. One of the things that makes The Singular so special, is that no matter where you are, be it the spa, restaurant, roof-top bar, swimming pool or enjoying the astonishing Parque-Forestal-view, you will always be surrounded by the magic and special environment composed by the hotel s one-of-a-kind architecture. Grand Hyatt Santiago, Palacio Duhau Park Hyatt Buenos Aires, Experience Buenos Aires at the fine Palacio Duhau-Park Hyatt, in the exclusive French-heritage neighborhood of Recoleta. A stay here allows guests to take in the fascinating Porteño culture from its core, to pick from three types of spacious rooms and to enjoy the spa, restaurants, swimming pool, fitness center or art gallery. Another great advantage of the hotel is that thanks to its convenient location, guests can easily visit museums, theatres and tango shows. Llao Llao Bariloche, A place where luxury and exceptional services are in the air. When staying at the Grand Hyatt guests will experience a fully relaxed sojourn, with subtle hints of the quaint an culture, thanks to the amenities and convenient location of the hotel. They will enjoy the swimming pool, fitness center and spa, and can easily head out on excursions to Cajón del Maipo, to vineyards, to the horse races or polo, to theatres, to the National Art Museum or to the snowy mountains (seasonal). One of our favorite hotels in the Argentine North Patagonia. Located up on the top of Bariloche, this mansion-like hotel sitting on the shore of the Moreno and lakes offers one of the region s most comfortable spaces to relax. It also provides great activities for guests to make the most of their time in Patagonia. Some of the hotel s facilities include a spa, an infinity pool, a bar, a restaurant, a golf course, trekking activities, archery, biking, snow sports and the well-known Club Nahuelito with activities for kids. Cumbres Varas Eolo, Relais & Chateaux Varas, El Calafate, With the seal of quality of a an chain with presence in Santiago, Atacama and Patagonia, this is definitely a recommended hotel in Varas. Some of the things that make the Cumbres one of our handpicked hotels in the city and the region, are its 90 luxury guest rooms, which feature breathtaking views of Patagonia, the charming Cumbres del Lago Restaurant, the spa, heated pool and the fitness center. These, combined with thrilling outdoor activities, bring to life a comfortable, elegant and beautifully modest place to stay Eolo embodies the spirit of Patagonia. Built on the land where the first creole and European immigrants of the area initially set foot, one cannot help but sense the aura of adventure that the thousands of travelers who journeyed through this area left behind. Visitors not only leave their mark but also depart with a sense of having been deeply transformed by the experience. Tierra Patagonia Aguas Arriba Ecolodge Torres del Paine, The Tierra Patagonia Hotel & Spa sits on a bluff where the South American pampa meets Lake Sarmiento, creating a flawless scenario for bringing to life a building that harmoniously complements the astonishing Torres del Paine landscape. This hotel provides the perfect environment in which to combine first-class services and accommodation with some memorable activities. Guests are surrounded by all things Patagonia, thanks to their large windows, Patagonia-inspired furniture and linings and excursions into the countryside, suitable for everybody. Awasi Patagonia Torres del Paine, El Chaltén, On the Lago del Desierto, set in 1,00 acres of land with astonishing landscapes and a first-row-view of the mythic Fitz Roy, sits the exclusive Aguas Arriba. The ecolodge is a secluded haven, surrounded by wild Patagonian landscapes. giving guests complete privacy. From the lodge, guests can trek for as little as one hour or as long as 12 hours over glaciers, along waterfalls, through woods and across the barren land. Los Cauquenes Ushuaia, Whether guests prefer the lodge or the villas, we can arrange a perfect experience in the only Relais & Chateaux around. Awasi Patagonia is a private reserve near the Torres del Paine National Park, with privileged views of the native Patagonian fauna and forests. A stay here will be unforgettable, as guests will be able to enjoy great amenities, location and excursions in addition to staying at the only lodge in South America with private guides and vehicles per room. Each guest with receive a personal and memorable experience. At the very end of the world, on the shore of the Beagle Channel beach, and before the peaks of the mighty Andes Los Cauquenes nestles. A beautiful Resort & Spa that won t just give you the opportunity of setting foot and even staying at the southernmost place of the world, but to have a lifetime, luxurious and personal experience when going on one of the multiple activities that are offered, such as: trekking, hiking, kayaking, sailing and even cooking! The Singular Patagonia Arakur Bories, The Singular Patagonia, recently acknowledged as s Top Hotel and one of the Best Hotels in South America, is a place that we strongly recommend in this beautiful corner of the world. Some of the things that make The Singular Patagonia one of our favorite places in the region are: their ample 57 rooms and sustainable consciousness, their one-of-a-kind wall-lengthwindows spa, the possibility of enjoying outdoor excursions and, of course, the landscapes, all that in addition to their first class services and accommodation. Ushuaia, Surrounded by panoramic views of deep forests, natural terraces and vast, green expanses, the beautiful Arakur is located in a privileged area of Patagonia. It is an excellent choice for those who enjoy a bit of comfort, adventure and sophistication brought together all in one place. Guests can stand in awe and gaze out at the astonishing views from their room or from the infinity pool. The restaurant cooks up the most delightful meals and plenty close encounters can be had with nature on one of the many activities on offer.

7 Abercrombie & Kent Keep Exploring PATAG O N I A PREMIUM EXTENSIONS Time flies when you re having fun! As travel experts, we are all too aware of this fact. When you re discovering some the world s gems and having the time of your life, you always wish you had just a few more days. It is for this reason precisely that we have designed some short extensions to keep our guests Patagonian adventure going for just a little bit longer. With these mini programmes, guests can continue enjoying the spectacular landscapes, thrilling activities and comfortable hotels that make bring this precious corner of the world to life. Varas and Chiloé, Varas is well known for its German traditions and landscapes, composed by lakes, reserves and snowcapped peaks. This city makes the perfect option for those who want to extend their Patagonia experience, especially when the intention is to head 220 km south, to Chiloé, a land of myths and legends, rolling hills and tiny coves that harbor a colorful palette of wooden fishing skiffs. Across the island, antique-bavarianstyle-wooden churches, appear in every bay. The true pleasure of Chiloé is scratching the surface and meeting its people in more off-the-beatenpath areas. Antarctica, Travel to the greatest ice mass on earth, Antarctica! It is so much more than the white continent, not only is the surreal landscape of jewel light colours where mountains rise directly from the sea, but the wildlife rich ecosystem with seals, penguins, whales and sea birds, that will make you glad you bought that extra memory card! For the more adventurous you can kayak through Antarctic waters to get up close and personal with an iceberg or two! We can arrange this once-ina-lifetime trip, either on our Fly & Cruise system, from Punta Arenas, or the traditional way, on a cruise from. & MOMENTS IN THE CHILEAN PATAGONIA The Magestic Condor, Punta Arenas If there is one place in the world you are guaranteed to spot condors, the world s largest flying birds, it is Punta Arenas in the an Patagonia. In fact, we have access to Estancia Olga Teresa and here our guests won t just see one of these majestic birds, they will see between 0 and 100. Home Hosted Lunch, Punta Arenas What better way to get under the skin of a destination, than spending time with the locals. Guests are invited to a traditional BBQ in a local home in Punta Arenas for a true experience. Over lunch they have the chance to learn about the culture, stories, traditions and the history of the region. Weekend at Estancia Mercedes Enjoy the opportunity to get to know a pioneer family estancia that has been around for generations. Get an insider access into what it was like years ago for the family to live in Patagonia, surrounded only by nature, and how many things have evolved over the years. Madryn, This quaint town sits in the northern Argentine Patagonia and is a true paradise for wildlife lovers, with sea lions, penguins southern right whales, elepahnt seals, orcas and dolphins all living together in harmony as visitors watch on. Anyone can admire the penguins as they waddle freely along the shore, however, with our itineraries, guests can do more than just watch. We can organise horse-back riding along the coast, whale-watching from boats or even scuba diving with sea lions. El Calafate and El Chaltén, El Calafate, is the gateway to the impressive Los Glaciares National Park, home to the famous Perito Moreno Glacier. The town is well-known for its ever-shifting icy landscapes, popular for some of the most exciting hiking and sightseeing experiences. Just 212km north from here is El Chaltén, the National Capital of Hiking, located on the shores of the Rio Las Vueltas. This mountain gained is name from the Tehuelche people, since the word chaltén means blue smoking mountain. From certain angles and in particular light, you can still see why. & MOMENTS IN THE ARGENTINE PATAGONIA Floating Cocktail, Lake District Some things are better left as a surprise. So whilst our guests are gently paddling through the beautiful Lake District, we can arrange for them to be greeted with a floating table, holding a deliciously refreshing cocktail and some local snacks. Serena Sunset, Lake District Whilst navigating through beautiful Patagonia, guests can enjoy an experience with cocktails and snacks, whilst being serenaded by a violinist. Just when they think it can t get any better, come 5pm, the sun sets and illuminates the water, transforming it into constantly changing shades of orange, red and purple. Marpatag Cruises Jump aboard a three-day-two-night expedition to Los Glaciares National Park, on the exclusive M/V Santa Cruz, and even set foot on the worldfamous Perito Moreno. This fascinating adventure unravels the secrets and majesty of the glaciers and settings that compose Southern Patagonia.

8 Abercrombie & Kent PATAGONIA SUGGESTED ITINERARIES 10 DAYS - CHILE/ARGENTINA 9 DAYS - CHILE/ARGENTINA 9 DAYS - CHILE/ARGENTINA DAY DESTINATION DAY DESTINATION DAY DESTINATION 1 Santiago 1 Santiago 1 Santiago 2 Santiago/Casablanca 2 Santiago/Torres del Paine 2 Santiago/Punta Arenas 3 Casablanca 3 Torres del Paine 3 Punta Arenas (Australis Cruise) 4 Casablanca/Santiago/ Varas 4 Torres del Paine 4 Ainsworth Bay/Tuckers Islets 5 Varas 5 Torres del Paine/El Calafate 5 Pia Glacier/Glacier Alley Varas/Bariloche 7 El Calafate Wulaia Bay/Cape Horn Bariloche Bariloche 7 El Calafate 7 Ushuaia 9 Bariloche/Buenos Aires El Calafate/Buenos Aires Ushuaia/Buenos Aires 10 Buenos Aires 9 Buenos Aires 9 Buenos Aires TEMPERATURE CHARTS FOR NORTH PATAGONIA TEMPERATURE CHARTS FOR SOUTH PATAGONIA Average rainfall for North Patagonia (mm) Average temperature for North Patagonia Average rainfall for South Patagonia (mm) Average temperature for South Patagonia Average days of rain for North Patagonia Average wind speed for North Patagonia Average days of rain for South Patagonia Average wind speed for South Patagonia FLIGHTS TO PATAGONIA ARGENTINA Florida 7, 1st Floor, office 4 C1005AAK, Buenos Aires Tel: +54 (11) info@abercrombiekent.com.ar CHILE Av. Providencia 22, 4th floor, office 401, , Providencia, Santiago Tel: +5 (2) info@abercrombiekent.cl