Best of Brazil: Cultural Rhythms & Natural Wonders

Transcription

1 Best of Brazil: Cultural Rhythms & Natural Wonders Plus optional extensions to Santiago & Chile's Atacama Desert and Iguassu Falls 2016 BRZ.BRA 16 07/06/16B 1

2 Overseas Adventure Travel Best of Brazil: Cultural Rhythms & Natural Wonders Handbook Table of Contents 1. TRAVEL DOCUMENTS & ENTRY REQUIREMENTS... 3 YOUR PASSPORT... 3 VISAS REQUIRED... 4 AIRPORT TRANSFERS... 5 RECIPROCITY FEES HEALTH... 6 IS THIS ADVENTURE RIGHT FOR YOU?... 6 Check with the CDC (Vaccinations)... 7 Yellow Fever Vaccination Discuss with Your Doctor... 7 Medical Checkup... 8 Medications... 9 STAYING HEALTHY ON YOUR TRIP MONEY MATTERS HOW TO CARRY YOUR MONEY CURRENCY TIPPING SHOPPING IN BRAZIL & CHILE U.S. Customs Regulations and Shipping Charges If You Have a Problem with a Purchase A WORD ABOUT THE WEATHER CLIMATE CHARTS PACKING JUST WHAT YOU NEED YOUR LUGGAGE & LOCKS CLOTHING SUGGESTIONS TRAVELER S CHECKLISTS A WORD ABOUT ELECTRICITY LEARN ABOUT YOUR DESTINATIONS BRAZIL AT A GLANCE CHILE AT A GLANCE OPTIONAL EXTENSION CULTURE & POINTS TO KNOW SAFETY & SECURITY COMMUNICATIONS ADDITIONAL RESOURCES SUGGESTED READINGS SUGGESTED MOVIES USEFUL WEBSITES BRZ.BRA 16 07/06/16B 2

3 Travel Documents 1. Travel Documents & Entry Requirements Your Passport Please take a moment to confirm that your passport meets all of these requirements: It should be valid for at least 6 months after your scheduled return to the U.S. It should have the recommended number of blank pages (see below for details). The blank pages must be labeled Visas at the top. Pages labeled Amendments and Endorsements are not acceptable. Recommended number of blank pages Know that this recommendation is based on a worst case scenario. When you are on this adventure, you might use fewer pages, depending on the whims of the Immigration official on duty that day. Since the consequence of having too few pages can be severe you could be denied entry into a country we at OAT feel that in this case, safe is better than sorry, and we strongly recommend that you follow these guidelines. Main trip only: If you are taking only the main trip, you will require 2 blank passport pages. Pre-trip extension to Chile: You ll need 1 more page, for a total of 3. Post-trip to Iguassu Falls: You ll need 1 more page, for a total of 3. Both a pre- and a post-trip extension: You will need a total of 4 blank passport pages. If you need to renew your passport: Contact the National Passport Information Center (NPIC) at , or visit their website at for information on obtaining a new passport or renewing your existing passport. You may also contact our recommended visa service company, PVS International, at for help with your passport. BRZ.BRA 16 07/06/16B 3

4 Travel Documents Visas Required We ll be sending you a detailed Visa Packet with instructions, application forms, and fees about 100 days prior to your departure. In the meantime, we re providing the information below as a guideline on what to expect. This info is for U.S. citizens only. All visas and fees are subject to change. Brazil (main trip and Iguassu Falls extension) visa required. Can only be obtained in advance: You must obtain your visa for Brazil before you leave home. At the time of writing, the Brazilian government was charging approximately $200 per person for a visa good for up to 10 years. Chile (optional Santiago & Atacama Desert extension) visa not required: For a U.S. citizen, a visa is not required for entry into Chile for a stay of up to 90 days. Argentina (optional Iguassu Falls extension) visa not required: If you are taking the optional extension to Iguassu Falls, you will cross into Argentina. For a U.S. citizen, a visa is not required for entry into Argentina. However, Argentina does charge an entry fee called a reciprocity fee. At time of writing, the fee is approximately $160 per person, must be paid in advance, and once paid will be good for up to 10 years; see the section labeled Reciprocity Fees on page 6 for details. If you are staying longer in any of these countries, you should check with their embassy or consulate for the applicable regulations: The Brazilian consulates can be reached at: Atlanta (404) , Boston (617) , Chicago (312) , Hartford (860) , Houston (713) / / , L.A. (323) , Miami (305) , New York (917) , San Francisco (415) and Washington DC (202) Argentina: (202) Chile: (202) Traveling without a U.S. passport? If you are not a U.S. citizen, or if your passport is from any country other than the U.S., it is your responsibility to check with your local consulate, embassy, or a visa services company about possible visa requirements. For your convenience, we recommend the services of PVS International, a national visa service located in Washington D.C.; they can be reached at or Overseas Taxes and Fees This tour may have taxes and fees that cannot be included in your airline ticket price because you are required to pay them in person onsite. All taxes are subject to change without notice and can be paid in cash (either U.S. or local currency). If applicable, you will receive a list of these fees with your Final Documents. In addition, Argentina charges a reciprocity fee. BRZ.BRA 16 07/06/16B 4

5 Travel Documents Emergency Photocopies The smartest and easiest security precaution you can take is to carry photocopies of key documents: the photo page of your passport plus any applicable visas, your air itinerary, and credit card numbers. Add emergency phone numbers like your credit card company and the number for your travel protection plan. Store copies separate from the originals. This can save you time, money, and bother if your documents are lost during your trip. If you don t feel like taking paper copies, consider going digital. Scan everything and it to yourself. That way as long as you have access to , you can access the info you need. Another option is to give copies to a trusted friend or relative at home as a backup that they can or fax to you if you need it. Airport Transfers Please note: If you plan on booking your own international flights or arranging with our air department to arrive/depart on an earlier/later date than standard for your program, airport transfers will NOT be included in your program price. Transfers must be purchased separately, as an optional add-on, and are subject to availability. To learn more, or purchase airport transfers, please call our Traveler Support team at When booking your international flights, please also note that the tour will end on Day 15 of the base tour (Day 18 of the post trip) for your overnight flight back to the United States. Reciprocity Fees Argentina has a $160 per person entry fee for U.S. citizens. This fee is known as a reciprocity fee because it is equal to the amount an Argentine citizen would have to pay to enter the U.S. This fee must be paid before your departure. To visit the Argentine side of Iguassu Falls, the reciprocity fee for Argentina must be paid in advance. We will send you detailed information on how to do this in your Visa Packet about 100 days prior to departure. Because OAT cannot reimburse for changes to the reciprocity fee program or for unused fees, we suggest that you wait until you are at or inside 90 days from departure to make this payment. Once paid, the fee permits multiple entries into Argentina for ten years in accordance with United States visa reciprocity. The amount, payment method, validity, and enforcement of the reciprocity fees are subject to change by the Argentine government without prior notice. OAT cannot be responsible if you are denied entry into a country for failure to pay the reciprocity fee. Entering Chile - Agricultural Products Prohibited Like some parts of the U.S. such as California and Hawaii, Chile severely restricts the entry of agricultural products to protect against the accidental transport of pests. Chile's requirements are very strictly enforced and incur large fines for violation. If you are arriving in Chile by air, we advise you to discard any fruit, nuts, vegetables, seeds, dairy products including cheese, flowers (including dried flowers), or unprocessed meats before landing. If you are arriving by air, the flight attendants will distribute an Agricultural Products form that you must complete. On this form you ll be asked to declare whether or not you are bringing any fruits, nuts, or other organic products into Chile. If you are carrying any items of this nature, you must declare them on this form. Fines of up to $200 could result if customs officers find even a simple pack of peanuts or an apple. BRZ.BRA 16 07/06/16B 5

6 Health 2. Health Is This Adventure Right For You? We ve worked closely with our local Trip Leaders and regional associates to identify the aspects of this adventure that you should be aware of, from physical requirements to cultural factors. Please carefully review the information below prior to departing on this adventure. We reserve the right for our Trip Leaders to modify participation, or in some circumstances send travelers home, if their condition would adversely affect the health, safety, or enjoyment of themselves or of other travelers. Pacing 5 locations in 14 days with two 1-night stays We travel about 4,700 miles within Brazil Early mornings during our 6 days in the Amazon and the Pantanal, including 4 pre-dawn departures for sunrise excursions Physical Requirements Not appropriate for travelers using wheelchairs, walkers, or other mobility aids You must be able to walk approximately 3 miles unassisted in hot, humid weather each day, and be comfortable participating in several hours of daily physical activities Climate Daytime temperatures range from F Tropical climate with high temperatures and humidity Frequent rain year-round Terrain Travel on city streets, rugged paths, and unpaved roads, and walk over rough, steep, and sometimes slippery trails without handrails Agility and balance are required for embarking and disembarking small boats and canoes Transportation Travel by 26-passenger minibus, 16-passenger river ship, small excursion boat, horseback, and motorized canoe Seven internal flights of 2-5 hours each, including connections Accommodations & Facilities Hotel rooms are air-conditioned and feature private baths with hot showers The Pantanal lodge is 3 hours from the nearest city and has limited medical facilities BRZ.BRA 16 07/06/16B 6

7 Health Steps to Take Before Your Trip Before you leave on your adventure, there are at least four health-related things you should do. We ll outline some of these steps in more detail in the following pages, but for now, here s the short list: Step 1: Check with the CDC for their recommendations for the countries you ll be visiting. You can contact them online at wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel or by phone at Step 2: Have a medical checkup with your doctor. Step 3: Pick up any necessary medications, both prescription and over-the-counter. Step 4: Have a dental and/or eye checkup. (Recommended, but less important than steps 1-3.) Check with the CDC (Vaccinations) To ensure you receive any needed vaccinations, or know about suggested medications, you should check the current recommendations of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for the countries that you ll be visiting. You can contact them: Online: the CDC s website at wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel has detailed recommendations for each country and comprehensive information about preventing illness while traveling. By phone: toll-free at hours a day. Automated information may be arranged topically by disease, rather than by country or region. Yellow Fever Vaccination Discuss with Your Doctor While the CDC offers a wide range of vaccination and medication suggestions, there is one in particular that we d like to draw your attention to the yellow fever vaccine. The CDC states that yellow fever is present in certain parts of Brazil, including areas we visit on the main trip like the Amazon rainforest and the Pantanal wetlands. Therefore, the CDC suggests that you receive a yellow fever vaccination for this adventure, if your health allows. This is not a legal requirement, but a health recommendation. You should discuss the vaccine with your doctor to see if he or she recommends it and if your health allows for it. (He or she can offer a suggestion tailored to your personal medical history.) If you and your doctor decide the vaccination is right for you, then he or she will issue you a Yellow Fever Card (officially called an International Certificate of Vaccination). TIP: We recommend that if you have received the vaccination, you have your Yellow Fever Card with you when traveling. If you cannot receive the vaccination for medical reasons, we suggest you bring with you a letter from your medical provider stating so. If Brazil makes a last-minute change to its entry policy before you leave, having one of these documents with you could make all the difference. BRZ.BRA 16 07/06/16B 7

8 Health Medical Checkup After checking the CDC s recommendations, we strongly recommend that you have a medical checkup with your doctor at least six weeks before your trip. (We suggest you check with the CDC first so that you can have an informed conversation with your doctor about vaccines and such.) Topics to discuss during your checkup are: The CDC recommendations. The CDC makes suggestions based on the destination, but that doesn t mean the suggestions are right for you. Your doctor will be able to advise you on what is best considering your unique medical history. Advice on what medicines (if any) to bring. For our suggestions of what types of medications to ask your doctor about, see the section titled Medications that follows. Remember to get a copy of any prescriptions written as a generic drug name so you can replace your medications if they are lost during the trip. Your fitness for this adventure. This is a must if you have any medical conditions or physical limitations. Use the Is This Adventure Right For You? section on previous pages as a guideline. Make certain to review any medical condition you have, particularly cardiac or respiratory disease or diabetes, and discuss the details of the trip itinerary as it pertains to your health. Remember, your trip may take you into remote areas, with no nearby medical facilities. Please notify us in writing about any medical condition that may require special attention. If your report is normal, you don t need to send it to us. If you send us a medical report, we don t use it to determine if you should take this trip, or if you are likely to enjoy it. Those decisions are up to you and your doctor. BRZ.BRA 16 07/06/16B 8

9 Health Medications Prescription medication suggestions Of course, you ll need to bring an ample supply of any prescription medications you happen to be taking. You ll also want to talk to your doctor about any medications suggested by the CDC. In addition, we suggest you ask about prescriptions for: An antibiotic medication for gastrointestinal illness A pain medication. You might need this in the unlikely event of an injury in a location where medical attention would be delayed. Medication for motion sickness. If you are prone to motion sickness, you might want this for our Amazon cruise. For the Atacama Desert extension only: Altitude sickness medication. On this extension, we will visit areas that reach more than 7,000 feet above sea level. At this altitude, almost everyone feels some of the symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). These symptoms include headache, nausea, loss of appetite, trouble with sleep, and lack of energy. At time of writing, the CDC did recommend discussing anti-malaria medication with your doctor for the Amazon basin. TIP: Anti-malarial medication can have strong side effects, so be certain to ask your doctor first. Over-the-counter medication suggestions When traveling, keep in mind that not every country has approved every medication. Most major brands are OK, but some medications we take for granted are not allowed in other countries. Fortunately, the U.S. State Department offers advice on restricted medications online at (Look under the Criminal Penalties and Special Circumstances sections of each country you ll be visiting. If you don t see anything mentioned, then major U.S. brands should be fine.) TIP: At time of writing, the State Department did not have any special warnings about American overthe-counter medications for Brazil, Argentina, or Chile. Traveling with medications To avoid loss and to have them handy, pack medications in your carry-on bag. For quicker security screening at the airport and a better experience if you get stopped by customs while overseas keep medicines in their original, labeled containers. To be prepared for any unforeseen loss of your medications, you should also bring copies of the prescriptions, written using the generic drug name rather than a brand name. BRZ.BRA 16 07/06/16B 9

10 Staying Healthy on Your Trip Safe Water Health Drinking tap water in Brazil is not recommended. We will provide you with filtered and bottled water along the tour. Inspect each bottle before you drink it to make sure the cap is sealed properly. When in doubt about the water, salads, or ice, just ask the restaurant or your Trip Leader. It is OK to brush your teeth with tap water. Safe Food We ve carefully chosen the restaurants for your group meals. Be very careful with food sold from vendors on the street, and with uncooked fruit and other foods. Fruit that you peel yourself is usually safe. Altitude Illness Atacama Desert extension only During the optional pre-trip extension to the Atacama Desert, you will be staying overnight at more than 7,000 feet above sea level, and making day excursions to higher altitudes. You will probably feel some effects of altitude when you first arrive. Even if you've been to high elevations previously, you could have a different reaction this time. For most people, the symptoms are mild, and will pass in a day or so. You should take it easy, avoid smoking and alcohol, and drink plenty of fluids. Some people take the high altitude medication starting when they arrive or one day before. Don t take sleeping medications, as they suppress respiration. The most common symptoms are lightheadedness, shortness of breath, headache, nausea, sleeplessness, and loss of appetite. If these are bothersome, you should start to take high altitude medication. Even though you may experience a decreased appetite, force yourself to eat soups and other light foods. If these normal altitude symptoms become unmanageable, it is critical that you inform your Trip Leader. Please let the leader know if you experience any of the following: serious difficulty breathing, mental confusion, a severe and unremitting headache, continued difficulty breathing after a period of rest, or poor physical coordination (ataxia). BRZ.BRA 16 07/06/16B 10

11 Money Matters 3. Money Matters How to Carry Your Money Generally speaking, you ll want to bring a mixture of different payment methods some cash to exchange and a couple of cards so that you ll be prepared for any situation. In this chapter, we offer some tips on each type of payment method. One note: Traveler s checks are not recommended. They can be difficult to exchange and are rarely accepted in shops and restaurants. Cash We recommend that you bring some cash with you on this adventure. Cash has a few advantages over other forms of payment. It is more widely accepted than any other form of payment, and sometimes commands a better exchange rate. Cash is also a better choice for rural or undeveloped areas where ATMs and credit card machines are scarce. So we know that bringing cash is a good idea does that mean U.S. dollars or local currency? There is no need to obtain local currency before your trip. In fact, your U.S. bank may not carry it. You can change money when you arrive at the airport, or at banks, most hotels, and money exchange offices. In some countries you do not even need to exchange money at all you can use U.S. dollars. For more information on what type of currency can be used on this trip, see the Currency section. Torn, dirty, or taped U.S. bills may not be accepted for exchange or payment. ATMs ATMs are fairly common in Brazil. Typically, PLUS, Cirrus, and other international bank networks are widely available in cities and large towns. But please keep in mind that ATMs will not be available in undeveloped areas, such as the Amazon rainforest or the Pantanal wetlands. It might be a good idea to obtain a store of cash in town before setting off for these destinations. It also helps to know that not all ATMs in Brazil are open 24/7 many are only open from 7 am until 10 pm, and then they shut down overnight. (It can be confusing because they may still be lit, even when closed.) And finally, keep in mind that not every ATM will accept foreign cards. You may need to try more than one machine. Your Trip Leader can advise you of ATM availability and warn you before you enter areas where there are no ATMs, but will not be able to guarantee which ATM will take your card. During the extension to Chile s Atacama Desert, ATMs are available in San Pedro de Atacama, but they are more common and tend to work better in Santiago. So it might be best to withdraw money in Santiago before you leave for the desert. Using a local ATM on an international network will allow you to withdraw money from your U.S. account in local currency; your bank at home will calculate the conversion rate and charge you in U.S. dollars. However, many banks charge a fee ranging from $1 to $5 for every time you use a foreign ATM. Others will charge you a percentage of what you withdraw. We recommend that you check with your bank before you depart. You ll also want to notify your bank that you ll be out of the country that way when they see foreign ATM withdrawals, they won t put a fraud alert on your account. Lastly, don t forget to memorize the actual digits of your card s PIN number (many keypads at foreign ATMs do not include letters on their keys they only display numbers.) BRZ.BRA 16 07/06/16B 11

12 Money Matters Credit Cards Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Brazil, especially for major purchases or in businesses that cater to visitors (hotels, souvenirs shops, etc.). You will even be able to use Visa, American Express and MasterCard for purchases on board our Amazon river ship and at the lodge in Pantanal. Nonetheless, there are some businesses street vendors, small Mom and Pop stores, some restaurants that are still cash only. If you don t see a credit card logo on the door or the cash register, then check with the cashier or server. (In an upscale restaurant, you can also ask for a portable credit card machine; see the tip below for details.) In undeveloped areas, like the Amazon rainforest, cash is usually the preferred form of payment. TIP: Credit card fraud can occasionally be an issue in restaurants in Brazil, especially if the waiter takes your card away to process the payment. You can easily block this scam by not letting your credit card out of your sight. That is why you will see portable credit card machines in many upscale restaurants in Brazil they bring the machine to you instead of taking your card away. And in restaurants that don t have a portable machine, it is completely OK to walk your card to the register and watch as the transaction is processed. In Chile credit cards are fairly common, but won t be accepted absolutely everywhere. Like in Brazil, street vendors, small businesses, and some restaurants will be cash only. Usually credit cards are more useful in large cities like Santiago than in rural areas. Some ex-pats in Chile have reported that cashiers will sometimes mistake U.S. credit cards for debit cards; usually this is not a problem, but the cashier may need to swipe your card twice. Even if you do not plan on using them, we suggest you bring one or two credit or debit cards as a backup or for optional tours. We also suggest that you bring more than one brand of card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express) if possible, because not every shop will take every card. For example, although the Discover card is now accepted in some countries outside the U.S., it is not widely adopted, so other brands will work at a much larger range of stores, restaurants, etc. TIP: Many credit card companies have fraud alert departments that will freeze your card if they see suspicious charges such as charges from another country. To avoid an accidental security block, it is a good idea to notify your credit card company you will be using your cards abroad. You can do this by calling their customer service number a week or two before your departure. You should also double-check what phone number you could call if you have a problem with a card while you are abroad. Don t assume you can use the number printed on the back of your card most numbers don t work outside of the U.S.! And speaking of credit cards, please keep in mind that optional tours with OAT can only be purchased with a credit or debit card (if it has a credit card logo and allows you to sign for purchases). Because our headquarters are in Boston, charges may appear to be from Boston or might be labeled as "OPT Boston" (depending on your credit card company). BRZ.BRA 16 07/06/16B 12

13 Money Matters Currency For current exchange rates, please refer to our website your bank, or the financial section of your newspaper. In Brazil The monetary unit of Brazil is the Real (R$). The R$ is divided into 100 centavos. Banknote and coin denominations are as follows: Banknotes: 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 Coins: 5, 10, 25, and 50 centavos; 1 Real You may be able to use a few small U.S. bills for some tips in a pinch, or at shops that cater to tourists, but for the most part local currency is preferred. Brazilians use a different system than Americans to write prices the commas and the periods are reversed. So in Brazil a thousand reals and fifty centavos is written as 1.000, 50. In Chile The basic unit of currency in Chile is the peso. Banknote and coin denominations are as follows: Banknotes: 500, 1000, 2000, 5000, 10,000, and 20,000 pesos Coins: 1, 5, 10, 50, 100, and 500 pesos In Chile, U.S. dollars are sometimes accepted at tourist-related businesses or for large-ticket purchases, but generally local currency is preferred. It can be difficult to change a bill larger than 1000 pesos in rural areas or in a small business. For our OAT staff in Chile, you may tip in local currency or in U.S. dollars. U.S. dollars are sometimes accepted at tourist-related businesses or for large-ticket. Tipping Of course, whether you tip, and how much, is always at your own discretion. For those of you who have asked for tipping suggestions, we offer these guidelines. Listed below are our recommendations for the tips that are not included in your tour price. All tips are quoted in U.S. dollars; tips can be converted and paid in local currency or in U.S. dollars. Do not use personal or traveler's check for tips. OAT Trip Leader: It is customary to express a personal "thank you" to your OAT Trip Leader at the end of your trip, especially if he or she has provided you with individual service. As a guideline, many travelers give $7-$10 per person per day. Housekeeping staff at hotels: $1 per night. Your tour price includes gratuities on the main trip and trip extensions for all local guides, drivers, ship crew, and luggage porters that may assist you during the scheduled activities on your adventure. BRZ.BRA 16 07/06/16B 13

14 Money Matters Shopping in Brazil & Chile It is Overseas Adventure Travel's goal to identify and provide you with shopping opportunities that highlight unique, locally-produced products with good value from reliable vendors. For this reason there may be scheduled visits to local shops during your adventure. There is no requirement to make a purchase during these stops, and any purchase made is a direct transaction with the shop in question, subject to the vendor s terms of purchase. Overseas Adventure Travel cannot be responsible for purchases you make on your trip or for the shipment of your purchases. Crafts & Souvenirs Brazil: Brazil is a shopping bonanza. Traditional handicrafts like wooden carvings, masks, ceremonial figures in wood or clay, and handmade lace or textiles complete for your attention with modern brands like Havaianas flip-flops, and Granado beauty products. To make your own caipirinha cocktails at home, bring back a bottle of the local sugarcane liquor called cachaca. Or for a non-alcoholic option, chose a bag of Brazilian coffee. Other items for sale include soccer memorabilia and props for the yearly carnival festival. Chile: Among Chilean goods, the excellent textiles are worth perusing. For "typical" items, colorful hand-woven ponchos are a good buy, as well as vicuna rugs, and although perhaps a little heavy for air travel there is excellent artisan copper work. Chilean stones have achieved much popularity abroad, and there are many "rock shops" in the city and suburbs selling quality work in lapis lazuli, Chilean jade, amethyst, agate, onyx, and others. Salmon, canned and smoked, is also a good buy. Bargaining In Brazil and Chile, shops generally have fixed prices. In places other than shops (like markets), you may be able to bargain. If this is your first experience at bargaining, don t worry you ll quickly find your own style. Your opening offer should be well under the asking price. The only rule is that, if you make an offer, you should be prepared to buy at that price. And remember, whatever price you pay is okay, as long as the item is worth that price to you. BRZ.BRA 16 07/06/16B 14

15 Money Matters U.S. Customs Regulations and Shipping Charges For all things related to U.S. Customs, the ultimate authority is the U.S. Bureau of Customs & Border Protection. Their website, has the answers to the most frequently asked questions. Or you can call them at The top three points to know are: At time of writing, your personal duty-free allowance is $800 for items brought with you. Items totaling more than $800 are subject to duty fees. Items shipped home are always subject to duty when received in the U.S. Even when the shop has offered to include shipping and duties in the price, this typically means shipping to the nearest customs facility and payment of the export duties not door-to-door shipping or payment of the import duties. All additional duties or shipping charges would be your responsibility. Unless an item is small enough to send by parcel service (like FedEx), chances are you will need arrange shipping or pick-up once the item is in the U.S. and will need to pay customs duties. It is illegal to import products made from endangered animal species. U.S. Customs & Border Protection will seize these items, as well as most furs, coral, tortoise shell, reptile skins, feathers, plants, and items made from animal skins. If You Have a Problem with a Purchase The best way to address a problem with a purchase is to not have one in the first place! So don t forget to examine merchandise before paying for it, check contracts or agreements before signing, and review your receipt before leaving the shop. For major purchases, don t hesitate to ask in advance about the return policy local practice may vary from U.S. standards, so don t assume that you have a certain number of days after the purchase to speak up. But what if you do discover an issue with an item later on? In that case, your best recourse is to contact the vendor directly. For this reason we recommend that you keep a copy of all your receipts, invoices, or contracts, along with the shop s contact information. Expect that any resolution will take longer than it would in the U.S. due to delays in communication, the complexities of international shipping/customs duties, and even cultural differences in how business is conducted. BRZ.BRA 16 07/06/16B 15

16 A Word About the Weather 4. A Word About the Weather Climate by Location South of the equator, the seasons are the reverse of those in the northern hemisphere; the warmest months are between October and March, and the coldest are between April and September. However, because of the range of latitudes that South America covers, and because of the great variations in altitudes and climatic zones, there are several different types of weather within each country. Still, there is one generalization that does apply to the entire continent: winters in South America lack the harshness of those in North America. Main Trip Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: An average day in Rio would usually involve moderate heat (barring the occasional heat wave), some humidity, and some rain. Throughout the year, the average daytime high usually falls somewhere between the high 70s and mid-80s. However, heat waves can spike the daytime temperature up to 100 degrees at any time of year. Nighttime lows are more predictable they usually stay in the low 70s or high 60s anything in the 50s is a cold snap. Humidity levels can make the day feel hotter than it really is, but luckily the city is along the coast, and the sea breezes help to control the humidity. Rainfall can happen in any season, but is most common (and lasts longer) December-March. Salvador, Brazil: Although a large city, Salvador s climate is reminiscent of a rainforest warm, sticky, and wet. There s very little variation in temperatures throughout the year. The highs are usually in the mid-80s; the lows are usually in the mid-70s. But with the high humidity and rainfall, it can feel hotter than it actually is. It can rain any day of any month, although April-August are the wettest months. Manaus and the Amazon Basin: Like Salvador, the key words for this rainforest are: hot, humid, and wet. On average temperatures tend to be a little higher than Salvador, especially in the months of August-November, when daytime highs in the 90s are common. Humidity is very high in this region, so be prepared for muggy and sticky conditions. January-April are the wettest months, but even during drier times of year, like August-October, there will be some rain. (It may be best to think of Brazil s Amazon rainforest as having a wet and a wetter season instead of a dry season and wet season.) The Pantanal Wetlands: Temperatures in this region are hot like those in the Amazon rainforest, but the humidity and rainfall levels are very different. It is still humid, but not as strongly as in the rainforest. And unlike the rainforest, the Pantanal wetlands have clearly defined wet and dry seasons that create dramatic differences in the landscape. During the wet season (November-March), the region s rivers overflow their banks, and flood the plains, turning small hills into islands of vegetation. During the dry season (May-September) the rivers have retreated and the floodplains become grassy savannah. Shoulder months, like April or October, act as transitional periods between wet and dry, and the weather is mixed. BRZ.BRA 16 07/06/16B 16

17 A Word About the Weather Optional Extensions Atacama Desert, Chile (optional extension): The Atacama Desert is one of the driest places in the world, with less than 1 inch of rain a year. As a desert near the Andes Mountains, the Atacama s climate can experience temperatures from warm to cold. Most of the year, highs are in the 70 s, but in the winter low temperatures can drop to below zero. But no matter when you travel, the nighttime temperatures are always drastically different than the daytime highs expect a 30 to 40 degree difference. (So if the daytime is a comfortable 75 degrees, the nighttime low will be a cool degrees or even lower.) Iguassu Falls, Brazil and Argentina (optional extension): If you are taking the optional trip extension to Iguassu Falls, you travel to a region that has a humid subtropical climate. Temperatures are hot year-round (and sometimes feel hotter than they really are because of the humidity). Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year. The average humidity most mornings is more than 90%, but the humidity is less in the afternoon. Climate Charts The following charts reflect the average climate as opposed to weather conditions. This means they serve only as general indicators of what can reasonably be expected. As your departure approaches you may wish to monitor current weather conditions online. Here is the official data from the weather observation stations closest to our destinations: Average Daily High/Low Temperatures ( F), Humidity, & Monthly Rainfall MONTH RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil SALVADOR, Brazil Temp. High-Low % Relative Humidity Monthly Rainfall Temp. High-Low % Relative Humidity Monthly Rainfall (inches) (am-pm) (inches) (am-pm) JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC BRZ.BRA 16 07/06/16B 17

18 A Word About the Weather MONTH MANAUS, Brazil CUIABA, Brazil (for the Pantanal Wetlands) Temp. High-Low Temp. High-Low % Relative Humidity (am-pm) Avg # of Days with Precip % Relative Humidity (avg) Monthly Rainfall (inches) JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC MONTH SANTIAGO, Chile (optional pre-trip extension) % Relative Humidity (am-pm) Temp. High-Low Monthly Rainfall (inches) SAN PEDRO DE ATACAMA, Chile (optional pre-trip extension) Temp. % Relative High-Low Humidity Monthly Rainfall (inches)* (avg)* JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC * Due to the extreme desert climate of the Atacama, humidity and rainfall are practically non-existent. The total yearly rainfall in the region is usually less than 1 inch. BRZ.BRA 16 07/06/16B 18

19 MONTH A Word About the Weather IGUASSU FALLS, Brazil (optional post-trip extension) % Relative Humidity (am-pm) Temp. High/Low Monthly Rainfall (inches) JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC Online Forecast Monthly temperature averages for the countries you will be visiting, plus a current 10-day forecast, are available online through the My Account feature of our website BRZ.BRA 16 07/06/16B 19

20 Packing Just What You Need 5. Packing Just What You Need Your Luggage & Locks Luggage Suggestions Checked luggage: One duffle bag or suitcase. Due to space limitations on our motor coaches and on the ship, you are allowed one piece of checked luggage per person. Look for one with heavy nylon fabric, wrap-around handles, built-in wheels, and a heavy-duty lockable zipper. Please do not bring a rigid (plastic shell) suitcase. We recommend that you do not pack any valuables or money in your checked luggage; in the unlikely event of baggage loss or delays it is important to have those items on your person or easily accessible in your carry-on bag. Carry-on bag You are allowed one carry-on bag per person. We suggest a tote or small backpack that can be used as both a carry-on bag for your flight and to carry your daily necessities water bottle, camera, etc during driving excursions, boat rides and walking trips. Consider a backpack or waistpack that keeps both hands free and distributes the pack s weight onto your back or hips. TIP: Small bag for the Atacama Desert extension: Our regional office recommends that travelers to the Atacama take a small bag, with only the items they need, for the three-night stay in the desert. (You can store the rest of your luggage at your Santiago hotel, where you ll retrieve it before continuing on to the main trip.) This is a suggestion only, not a requirement. Locks To reduce the risk of damage to your luggage, either do not lock your bags when checking in for flights that originate in the U.S. or use TSA-approved locks. (These are locks that TSA screeners can open and relock with a special tool, avoiding damage to your luggage or lock if a physical inspection is required. Look for the words TSA or TSA-approved on the lock s packaging.) Outside of the U.S., we strongly recommend that you lock your luggage as a preventative measure against theft. BRZ.BRA 16 07/06/16B 20

21 Packing Just What You Need LUGGAGE LIMITATIONS In addition to the international flights, you will also take domestic flights within the region on your main trip. The luggage limits on these flights are less than the average allowance for international flights. This means that even if your international airline offers a larger weight limit, you will need to pack according to the lower restrictions, as indicated below. Main trip only Number of Pieces One checked bag and one carry-on per person Type of Luggage Duffle bag or softsided suitcase. Please do not bring a hardsided (clamshell) suitcase. Weight Restrictions Checked luggage: 44 lbs total Carry-on: 11 lbs total Special Size Restrictions? Standard airline size: checked luggage should not exceed 62 linear inches (length+ width + depth) and carry-on should not exceed 45 linear inches Pre- and post-trip extensions Same Same Same Same Remarks and Suggestions The Dirty Harry luggage rule: The limits in the chart above are based on the airlines published restrictions. The enforcement of luggage limits is a matter of airline corporate policy. It may not be consistent in all situations and may include random spot checks, especially for carry-on luggage. Airline penalties and fines, however, will probably be immediate when and if enforcement occurs. Before you choose to go above the airline s published restrictions, you should first ask: Do I feel lucky? (And if the answer is yes, then you should accept that you might be charged a fee by the airlines.) Remember, these limits can change. If the airline(s) notifies us of any changes, we will include an update in your Final Documents booklet. You should also confirm both luggage restrictions and luggage fees directly with your U.S./international airline a week or so before your departure. Doing so will keep you up-to-date on any last-minute changes, new security measures, or new fees. Most airlines are now charging fees for checked luggage, even on some international flights. These fees are not included in your trip price; they are payable directly to the airlines. For your convenience, we maintain a list of the toll-free numbers for the most common airlines on our website under the FAQ section. BRZ.BRA 16 07/06/16B 21

22 Packing Just What You Need Clothing Suggestions Functional Tips As you will experience some hot temperatures and high humidity on this adventure, we suggest clothing that takes these weather conditions into account. You'll want fairly good-quality rain gear for your Amazon rainforest visit. If you like to hand-wash your clothes, you can purchase items made of quickdrying fabrics (usually synthetics, or a cotton-synthetic blend) that will dry out overnight. You can also buy clothing designed especially for travel. Walking shoes: You ll be on your feet a lot during the trip, and walking over some rough and slippery surfaces. Shoes should be comfortable walking or running shoes with arch support and good traction; waterproof or water-repellent is best. You can find especially supportive shoes designed for walking. Light hiking boots might be useful on some days, but are not required. You may also want to bring waterproof sandals for use during the Amazon & Pantanal boat rides. TIP: Pantanal sometimes experiences flooding during March, April and November when the weather is transitioning between wet and dry seasons. If you are traveling during these months, the lodge will provide you with rubber boots to wear during certain activities. If you are traveling during these months and your shoe size is hard to find, we recommend bringing your own rubber boots for this purpose. Hiking sticks/trekking poles: Many former travelers to the rainforest have recommended bringing a folding hiking stick (sometimes called a trekking pole). They are usually sold in camping stores. For the extension to Iguassu Falls this should be rubber-tipped; it will give you more traction. Rain gear: You ll want good, light rain gear all year round. Rain is likely during this tour even during drier times of year, so you ll want rain gear you are comfortable being active in (walking, hiking) and dry footwear, such as light hiking boots with a built-in Gore-Tex liner. And even outside of the rainforest, it helps to have good rain gear it can rain at any time during the trip. Clothing for the Atacama pre-trip extension: Travelers on this extension will want to bring a few warmer layers in the desert, the nighttime temperatures are significantly lower than the daytime highs. Style Hints Dress on our trip is functional and casual. Women might want to bring one casual dress and a pair of dressier sandals. BRZ.BRA 16 07/06/16B 22

23 Packing Just What You Need Traveler s Checklists Did you know that the top two comments travelers have about packing are I wish I had brought less and I wish I had thought to double-check the weather? In an effort to help you bring less, we offer these lists, which have been compiled from suggestions by Trip Leaders and former travelers. The lists are only jumping-off points they offer recommendations based on experience, but not requirements. You might also want to refer to the climate charts in this handbook or online weather forecasts before you pack. And finally, remember the Golden Rule of Packing Light whatever you think you need at first take half the clothes and twice the money. Recommended Clothing Checklist Shirts: Overall, you will want shirts that are comfortable for warm temperatures and humid weather. However, a couple of lightweight long-sleeved shirts are suggested for the time in the rainforest and the Pantanal wetlands. (They help protect your arms from creepy-crawlies, insect bites, and sun.) Travelers to the Atacama may want a few lightweight shirts with sleeves that offer sun protection. Dry-fit trousers and/or jeans: Comfortable and loose fitting is best. This is not because tight clothing isn t acceptable in Brazil, but because it will help you combat the heat and to allow movement during activities like hiking. Walking shorts: Shorts are OK in most locations on the trip, but you ll want a few pairs of long trousers or jeans as well. Specifically, long lightweight trousers are recommended in the rainforest and in the Pantanal as a protection from sun and insects. Shoes and socks: Shoes should be comfortable walking or running shoes with arch support and good traction; waterproof or water-repellent is best. You can find especially supportive shoes designed for walking. Light hiking boots might be useful on some days, but are not required. You ll want at least a couple pairs of long socks for active days or hiking (they ll protect your feet from blisters and insects). Please note: Pantanal sometimes experiences flooding during March, April and November when the weather is transitioning between wet and dry seasons. If you are traveling during these months, the lodge will provide you with rubber boots to wear during certain activities. If you are traveling during these months and your shoe size is hard to find, we recommend bringing your own rubber boots for this purpose. Light fleece or sweater: Even in during the hotter months this can be useful as air conditioning can be chilly. Light rain jacket/windbreaker with hood: Some sort of rain gear is useful year-round; our regional office recommends bringing a waterproof jacket. Travelers on the Atacama extension will want to bring some warmer gear too in the desert, the nighttime temperatures are significantly lower than the daytime highs. Wide-brim sun hat or visor for sun protection. Good for the whole trip and a must in the Atacama. Underwear and sleepwear Swimsuit For hotel pools. There may also be a chance for some swimming in the Amazon rainforest, depending on the weather. BRZ.BRA 16 07/06/16B 23

24 Packing Just What You Need Other Essential Items Daily essentials: toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, hairbrush or comb, shaving items, deodorant, etc. Hotels will provide soap and shampoo. Spare eyeglasses/contact lenses Sunglasses, 100% UV block Sunscreen, SPF 30 or stronger. Insect repellent with DEET ( at least 30-35% strength) Travel money bag or money belt Cold-water hand-wash laundry soap and plastic hang-up clothespins Light folding umbrella Moisturizer and sun-blocking lip balm Packets of pocket-size tissues or small roll of toilet paper Moist towelettes and/or anti-bacterial "water-free" hand cleanser Flashlight or headlamp, extra batteries/bulb Electrical converter & plug adapter: see "A Word about Electricity" for details Ziploc bags to protect camera/clothing from humidity or rain. Lightweight binoculars are highly recommended for the Amazon rainforest and the Pantanal; they will help you spot elusive wildlife and birds Camera gear with extra batteries or battery charger Medicines & First Aid Gear Your own prescription medicines Travel first aid kit: Band-Aids, headache and pain relief, laxatives and anti-diarrhea tablets, something for upset stomach. Maybe a cold remedy, moleskin foot pads, antibiotic cream, or allergy medication. An antibiotic medication for gastrointestinal illness Optional: A strong prescription pain medication for rare emergency purposes Optional: Anti-malarial medication discuss with your doctor first Optional: Medication for motion sickness. If you are prone to motion sickness, you might want this for our Amazon cruise. Optional for the Atacama extension: Altitude sickness medication BRZ.BRA 16 07/06/16B 24