About us. Arq. Giacomo Zanone General Manager

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1 About us Dear friends, Through these pages, Eurotur invites you to discover the tourist beauties Argentina offers, a country of incredible attractions that combine the seduction of the cosmopolitan cities and the tango, the immensity of the pampas, the majestic scenery of the national parks and an amazing diversity of fauna. Our company, now with more than 40 years in the tourism industry, specialized in incoming tourism, has achieved international recognition for its efficiency and professionalism. Some of our tourist proposals have been pioneers in Argentina having introduced regular tours with guaranteed departures and multilingual guides, special agricultural, cultural and estancias tours that have distinguished us thanks to our creativity. We count on Congresses and Conventions (we are an ICCA member) and Incentives special departments. Likewise, we have recently developed an Adventure and Expedition department. Eurotur counts on multilingual experienced operators and sale executives who will satisfy your needs offering you the best itinerary at the best price, out of the multiple available options. Our computerized sales and reservations system allows us to offer you on-line reply within 24 hours, whether you need a simple booking or a complex tour. We truly hope you find this second revised and completed edition of our Argentine manual really useful. Please do not forget Eurotur is your friend in Argentina! Arq. Giacomo Zanone General Manager

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3 ARGENTINA The place on earth you are looking for Argentina is a country blessed by an endless array of natural beauties that will undoubtedly meet your most personal expectations. The infinite Pampas, whose beauty and spirit are hardly appreciated at a first glimpse, is the first approach to a land that treasures the most incredible variety of natural resources ever gathered within a country. Views that will amaze, impress and move you. Every single trait leads to surprise: the imposing snowed summits of the Andean Cordillera; the subtropical rain forest that stretches down to improbable latitudes; the torrential falls of the Iguazú River; the barren bleakness of the Patagonian Steppe; the endless beauty of the marine fauna; the frozen land of the fascinating glaciers; the charming scenery of the hills; the blinding whiteness of the Puna; the assorted native fauna in the marshlands. CHILE BOLIVIA Jujuy S.Miguel de Tucumán Tucumán Catamarca La Rioja La Rioja S. Salvador de Jujuy PARAGUAY Salta Salta Formosa Santiago del Estero Santiago del Estero San Fdo. del Valle de Catamarca Chaco Formosa Resistencia Santa Fé ASUNCION Posadas Corrientes Corrientes Misiones BRASIL But the landscape is not all. Argentina has much more reserved for you. The kindness and cordiality of its people will undoubtedly grant you a most pleasant visit to our country. This cosmopolitan country where diversity has influenced even the composition of its society, since many immigrants from all over the world reached these shores decades ago, choosing the country to settle what is nowadays apparent in local inhabitant's mores and habits. Pacific Ocean SANTIAGO DE CHILE San Juan San Juan Mendoza Mendoza Neuquén Neuquén Río Negro San Luis San Luis La Pampa Córdoba Córdoba Santa Rosa Viedma Santa Fé Entre Ríos Paraná Buenos Aires Buenos Aires URUGUAY MONTEVIDEO Chubut Rawson Atlantic Ocean Scale in km N Santa Cruz The country is divided in seven different regions: Pampas and Sierras pág. 7 The Littoral pág. 55 Northwest pág. 67 Cuyo and The Andes pág. 87 Southern Lakes pág. 103 Central Patagonia pág. 119 Southern Patagonia pág. 133 Río Gallegos Tierra del Fuego Ushuaia Atlantic Ocean Southern Atlantic Islands W eddell Sea ARGENTINE ANTARCTICA 3

4 Introduction Origin of the Name: The word Argentina comes from the Latin word 'argentun', which means silver. This part of the continent was named like this, in the XVI century, after the rich silver mines discovered nearby, in Potosí. In the XVIII century the region came to integrate the Río de la Plata Viceroyalty and it was not until 1860 that the Argentine Republic was constituted as a nation, comprising most of the territory of the former viceroyalty and adopting this word as its official denomination. Geographic Location: Argentina is situated in the southern extreme of the American Continent, between the 22nd and 55th parallels of south latitude, and the Capricorn Tropic crosses it in the north and the Antarctic Polar Circle in the south. It has a surface of 3,800,000 km 2 out of which 2,800,000 km 2 belong to the continent and the rest to Antarctica and the Southern Atlantic Islands. It is the largest among the Spanish-American countries and the fourth one in the continent after the United States, Canada and Brazil. Pacific Ocean CHILE SANTIAGO DE CHILE San Juan San Juan BOLIVIA Jujuy S.Miguel de Tucumán Tucumán Catamarca San Fdo. del Valle de Catamarca La Rioja Mendoza Mendoza Neuquén Neuquén Bariloche Esquel La Rioja Río Negro Chubut Santa Cruz Río Gallegos Comodoro Rivadavia El Calafate 1h 50m S. Salvador de Jujuy PARAGUAY Salta Salta Formosa Córdoba Córdoba 1h 15m San Luis San Luis La Pampa 3h 15m Río Grande Tierra del Fuego 1h 55m Pto. Madryn Trelew 3h 00m Ushuaia 2h 35m 2h 06m 1h 45m 2h 05m 2h 15m 3h 45m 4h 25m 1h 50m 3h 45m Santa Rosa Viedma Santiago del Estero Santiago del Estero 1h 50m 1h 50m Santa Fe Chaco Formosa Resistencia Santa Fe Buenos Aires Corrientes 1h 30m Entre Ríos Paraná Posadas Corrientes 1h 45m Buenos Aires 50m ASUNCION MONTEVIDEO Misiones BRASIL URUGUAY Mar del Plata Refereces Air Routes Flight length Atlantic Ocean Scale in km Atlantic Ocean Southern Atlantic Island W eddell Sea Iguazú N ARGENTINE ANTARCTICA From west to east, it measures 1,400 kilometers in its widest part. From its northernmost city, La Quiaca, to its southernmost one, Ushuaia, there is a total distance of 4,890 km. Its boundaries are: Bolivia and Paraguay to the north; Chile to the west; Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay and the Atlantic Ocean to the east; and Chile and the Atlantic Ocean to the south. Gateways: The main airports to enter Argentina are the Ezeiza International Airport and the Jorge Newbery Airport, both located in the City of Buenos Aires, as well as some other airports such as Córdoba and Mendoza. The Port of Buenos Aires is also an important gateway. Buenos Aires is, at the same time, the starting point of the main routes within Argentina. The frontier passes are also important gateways into Argentina, linking the country to its neighboring countries. Climate: Most of the Argentine territory is located within the temperate zone of the southern hemisphere. However, as it is such a large country, it spans from the hot deserts of Salta, in the north, to the frozen lands of the glaciers, in the south. The north-east is humid and subtropical. The north-west is quite hot and rainy during summer but with mild and dry winters. In the vast prairies of the Pampas, the climate is temperate. The southern region has cold climate and rains vary greatly along this extended territory. The capital city has temperate climate, thus not showing extreme temperatures. TRAVEL TIPS: Official Language: Spanish. Currency: Peso. Credit Cards and Travelers' Checks: are normally accepted. Travelers' Checks can be exchanged at most banks and exchange houses. Shops, restaurants and banks: banks are open Monday thru Friday from 10 AM to 3 PM. Shops and offices are open Monday thru Friday from 9 AM to 7 PM, and usually till 1 PM on Saturdays. In the main cities, specially in Buenos Aires, most shops remain open also on Saturday afternoon. Shopping malls are open all week around usually from 10 AM to 10 PM, but their food courts and cinemas are usually open well after midnight. Restaurants are also open till late at night and many bars and coffee-shops are open 24-hours a day. Voltage: 220v/50hz all over the country. Tipping: it is not compulsory at all, though a 10% tip of the total expense is usual at restaurants, bars and other services. Customs: passengers entering the country can bring all personal items such as sport equipment, photographic equipment and video cameras. National holidays: January 1st: First day of the year Virgin Mary's Day. March or April: Good Friday. May 1st: Workers' Day. May 25th: Anniversary of the First National Government. June 10th: National Sovereignty Day (*) June 20th: Flag Day. (*) July 9th: Independence Day. August 17th: Anniversary of General San Martín's death. (*) October 12th: Day of the Americas (*) December 8th: Virgin Mary's Day. December 25th: Christmas. (*) Transferred to the previous or following Monday. 4

5 Temperature: Monthly Average (Expressed in Centigrades) Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Iguazú 25,3 24,4 23,8 21,1 17,6 15,0 15,4 17,2 18,6 21,5 23,4 24,6 Tucumán 25,3 24,2 22,2 19,1 15,5 12,2 12,1 14,7 17,1 21,6 23,2 24,9 Salta/Jujuy 22,4 21,5 20,3 17,5 14,0 10,7 11,3 13,9 15,9 20,3 21,9 22,4 Mendoza 25,2 24,0 20,8 16,5 11,7 8,0 7,8 10,7 13,3 18,7 22,2 25,0 Córdoba 23,5 22,4 20,4 17,2 13,8 10,4 10,0 12,5 14,5 18,8 21,0 22,9 Buenos Aires 25,1 23,7 21,4 17,7 14,3 11,2 10,9 12,7 14,2 17,7 20,6 23,2 Mar del Plata 20,9 20,4 18,1 14,7 11,0 8,3 7,7 8,9 10,5 13,3 16,2 18,6 Bariloche 14,3 14,0 11,3 7,7 5,0 2,6 2,1 3,0 4,7 7,5 10,6 12,9 El Calafate 13,4 13,1 10,7 7,6 3,9 1,5 1,2 2,6 5,3 8,5 11,2 12,8 Puerto Madryn 21,7 20,6 17,1 13,1 9,1 6,3 5,9 7,6 10,5 13,8 18,0 20,3 Ushuaia 10,3 9,5 7,6 5,7 3,1 1,7 1,6 2,4 4,3 6,5 8,3 9,1 Antarctica -0,6-2,0-5,0-9,2-11,7-12,8-12,7-12,3-9,9-8,2-3,9-1,0 Gastronomy: The excellent quality of Argentine beef is wellknown worldwide. Typical dishes are: pasta, pizza, all cuts of beef, fish and sea food, lamb and pork, as well as a large variety of fruits and vegetables. A strong immigration influence is clearly perceived in local cuisine. There is, thus, a large array of restaurants offering tyical dishes from all over the world. Typical Northern Argentine dishes are really good alternatives: 'empanadas' (meat pies), 'puchero' (meat and vegetables stew) as well as a number of corn-based dishes such as 'humita' (stew made of corn, squash, onion, tomato), 'locro' (a heavier cornbased stew including rather fat cuts of pork and beef) and 'tamales' (corn meal and shredded pork, wrapped in corn leaves and boiled). Argentine wines have become famous worldwide because of its quality and variety. Each year, they take part in the most important contests in Europe, specially in France, where they have received many prizes. The best wines are produced in the regions of Cuyo and Cafayate, where the most prestigious wineries are located. These firms produce assorted varieties of wines such as: Cabernet, Merlot, Malbeck, Pinot Noire, Chablis, Chardonnay and Torrontés, among others. Sports: Argentina is, undoubtedly, a country that loves sports. However, not all its inhabitants practice sports themselves, but they are all extremely passionate about certain sports and follow closely to their favorite team or player, specially to the national team during the Football World Cup. During the XIX century, Argentina received important English migrations which introduced many of the sports nowadays practiced, such as polo, football, hockey and tennis, among others. The most popular one is football, labeled as 'crowds' passion'. Many Argentine players have shown great performances abroad, joining the most important football teams in the world. Diego Maradona is undoubtedly the most worldwide known among them. Another popular sport is tennis. Along its history, Argentina has produced players that reached the first ranks in international charts, such as: Guillermo Vilas, José Luis Clerk and Gabriela Sabatini, among others. Polo, in spite of being less popular than the previous ones, holds also an important position among sports. Argentine polo is deemed the best polo in the world, since its teams reach the highest handicaps and they all have their own polo horse breeding ranches. National Parks: Vast areas within the country have been declared natural reserves and national parks in order to protect its impressive biodiversity, scientific interest and scenic beauty. The most important ones are: Pacific Ocean CHILE SANTIAGO DE CHILE Scale in km San Juan San Juan BOLIVIA 1 1 Jujuy 2 S. Salvador de Jujuy Salta 3 Salta Formosa S.Miguel de Tucumán 5 Santiago del Estero 6 Tucumán Catamarca Santiago del Estero San Fdo. del Valle de Catamarca La Rioja 12 La Rioja Mendoza Mendoza Neuquén 18 Neuquén Río Negro Chubut 2 Santa Cruz Río Gallegos N 14 Comodoro Rivadavia 4 San Luis San Luis La Pampa 17 Rawson Tierra del Fuego 26 Ushuaia Córdoba 13 Córdoba Santa Rosa Viedma PARAGUAY Formosa Chaco 8 Resistencia Santa Fe Entre Santa Fe Ríos Paraná Atlantic Ocean 3 Buenos Aires Buenos Aires 7 ASUNCION 9 Posadas Corrientes Corrientes MONTEVIDEO Misiones BRASIL URUGUAY References Baritú National Park Calilegua National Park El Rey National Park Los Cardones National Park Copo National Park Campo de los Alisos National Park Río Pilcomayo National Park ChacoNational Park Mburucuyá National Park 10 Iguazú National Park 11 San Guillermo National Park 12 Talampaya National Park 13 Quebrada del Condorito National Park 14 Sierra de Las Quijadas National Park 15 Pre-Delta National Park 16 El Palmar National Park 17 Lihue Calel National Park 18 Laguna Blanca National Park 19 Lanin National Park 20 Los Arrayanes National Park 21 National Park Nahuel Huapi 22 Lago Puelo National Park 23 Los Alerces National Park 24 Perito Moreno National Park 25 Los Glaciares National Park 26 Tierra del Fuego National Park 1 Laguna de Los Pozuelos Nat. Mon. 2 Petrified Wood Natural Monument 3 Southern Riverside Ecologic Reserve Introduction 5

6 With the prestige and tradition that made us the prefered ones in Europe A few steps from the Recova de Posadas, Patio Bullrich, near Puerto Madero and Recoleta. Large and elegant rooms and suites Bussines Center Health Club 9 Meeting and Banquet Rooms. Maximus Restaurant Oliver s English Bar Museum Terraces 24 hs. room service. Av. del Libertador 420 (C1001ABR) Buenos Aires - Argentina

7 Pampas and Sierras The Pampas is perhaps the best-known region in Argentina. The bare mention of its name is enough to bring forth a feeling of legend and infinitude. It is a word of Quechua origin meaning treeless plain, since most of its surface is composed by vast grasslands and crops where the image of the gaucho is still present in the mores inherited by countrymen. There is very little vegetation that is native to the pampas. The only tree that grew here as an autochthonous species, is the ombú. And it also contributes to legend, its wood, useless for fuel or burning, fulfills an undeniable historical function: providing shade to tired gauchos as they rested after their daily tasks beneath its branches to sip some mate (bitter green tea). The main city in the region is Buenos Aires, la Reina del Plata (the Queen of the River, as tango lyrics go). Undoubtedly starting point for any itinerary within Argentina. However, there are some other very important cities such as Córdoba and Rosario because of their population and cultural patrimony. The vast Pampas are interrupted in the province of Córdoba by beautiful sierras, which constitute the perfect match for the fertile valleys. There are also some smaller ranges of sierras in the province of Buenos Aires: those called Sierras de Tandil and Sierra de la Ventana. Eastward the Pampas look at the ocean, with its vast beaches chosen each summer by many Argentineans. Some of the most important cities of the country are situated in this region: Buenos Aires, La Plata, Córdoba, Rosario, and Santa Rosa. Fría Enlarged Area Va. Grl. Mitre Deán Funes Cruz del Eje La Falda Cosquín Córdoba San Francisco Rafaela Alta Gracia 19 Santa Fe Villa Dolores Córdoba 9 Río Tercero Villa María Villa Carlos Paz Paraná Colón San Miguel Saladas Curuzú Cuatiá Yapeyú Concordia 40 Santo Tomé Paso de los Libres Bell Ville Concepción Marcos Juárez del Uruguay Río Cuarto Rosario Gualeguaychú San Nicolás Mercedes Canals de los Arroyos Justo Darac Venado Tuerto San Pergamino Pedro Baradero URUGUAY Laboulaye Zárate Rufino Campana Colonia 148 Junín Luján Mercedes Buenos Montevideo 70 Chivilcoy Aires Lobos La Plata 5 Brandsen 9 de Julio Gral. Pico Saladillo Chascomús Pehuajó Trenque Lauquen Gral. Belgrano Bahía San Borombóm 10 San Carlos de Bolívar 3 Santa Rosa Dolores Quinto Tercero Goya Río de la Plata Olavarría Gral. Acha Gral. Pinamar Carhué Ayacucho Madariaga Tandil Villa Gesell Pigüé Cnel.Suárez Benito Juárez 3 33 Cnel. Pringles Balcarce 35 Lobería Mar del Plata 154 Tres Arroyos Miramar Gral. Dorrego Necochea 22 BahíaBlanca Río Colorado Punta Alta Choele-Choel Atlantic Ocean Scale in km La Pampa N 9 Cuarto 3 Río Salado Lag. Mar Chiquita 40 Reconquista Santa Fe Río Dulce 11 Río Paraná Esquina La Paz Entre Ríos Buenos Aires Salado Río Uruguay Esteros del Iberá Corrientes N Pampas and Sierras 1 7

8 U PAMPAS AND SIERRAS Buenos Aires City and surroundings Pampas and Sierras Located by the Río de la Plata, the widest estuary in the world, Buenos Aires is the capital of tango and soccer, of the gaucho and the asado (Argentine-style barbecue). It offers its visitors assorted alternatives to meet all wishes. In the city that never sleeps, there is time and space for everyone. Buenos Aires is one of the most populated cities in the world, counting a total of thirteen million inhabitants in both the city and its suburbs, which is surprisingly enough in a country with such a reduced population. It is a modern and dynamic city that still keeps some of its old traditions. It is known as the most cosmopolitan city in South America what is clearly apparent in the heterogeneity of its people (called porteños -inhabitants of the port-), their customs, and its architecture. Each corner in the city presents quite a diverse aspect, easily changing as the different districts are visited. To catch the spirit of the city, it is necessary to walk around: to stroll along the streets in downtown, to do some shopping in its elegant boutiques, to have a coffee in a sidewalk café or to visit the residential neighborhoods, where old buildings alternate with modern crystal skyscrapers. It is also interesting to underline the enormous quantity and variety of restaurants offering typical food, as well as excellent international cuisine. Another unmistakable example of its assorted ethnical composition. The visit to this city should probably start at Plaza de Mayo (May Square), perhaps the most historically representative place in Argentina, where the second and definitive foundation of Buenos Aires, by Juan de Garay, took place, in Here, the Plaza de Armas was established, surrounded by the main buildings of the city according to the urban layout provided by the Indian Laws (old Spanish legislation during colonial times): the Cabildo (former Town Hall), the church and the fort. Even if new buildings have been built over the ruins of the original ones, the square keeps its colonial structure. Plaza de Mayo is, even nowadays, the center of the most important political activities and public demonstrations. On the opposite end stands the Government House, also known as Pink House because of its characteristic color, which is the headquarters of the National Executive Power. It is located in the same plot where the old Fort and Viceroys' House stood. It houses a museum in its underground galleries discovered while renovation works were being carried out. The museum MONSERRAT/ SAN NICOLAS Plaza de Mayo Government House Metropolitan Cathedral Manzana de Las Luces Avenida de Mayo Café Tortoni SAN TELMO Plaza Dorrego National History Museum Lezama Park LA BOCA 'Caminito' Street Boca Juniors Stadium & Museum 'Quinquela Martín' Fine Arts Museum PUERTO MADERO Sarmiento Frigate The Immigrant Museum RKER PADRE F. GROTE PUCIO MINISTRO BIN Plaza Solís 900 CAMINITO GRAL. G. ARAOZ DE LAMADIRID PUENTE N. AVELLANEDA Riachuelo AV. DON P. DE MENDOZA OLAVAVRRIA CARLOS F. MELO SUARREZ 100 CABOTO 1300 BRANDSEN GR GARIBALDI DEL VALLE IBERLUCEA PUERTO DE PALOS 500 NECOCHEA PRACT. POLIZA PINZON 1000 OLAVAR J. DE DIOS FILIBERTO M. RODRIGUEZ ZOLEZZI A. DEL VALLE SUAREZ IRALA Dársena Sur AV. ESPAÑA HERNANDARIAS CAFFARENA W. VILLAFAÑE BRANDS AV. ALTE. BROWN 100 PINZON AV. B. PEREZ GALDOS A. DEL VALLE LA BOCA ALTE. BROWN JUAN. M. BLANES MENDEZ 500 AV. DON P. DE MENDOZA W. VILLAFAÑE 500 M. DE MOUSSY 500 ARZ. ESPINOZA 20 DE SEP. BRIANO 20 DE SEPTIEMBRE ARZ. ESPINOSA VICTORICA ESPINOSA M. GALVEZ GUALEGUAY B. CORREA 1000 GUALEGUAY ALF. PAREJA T. LIBERTI ELLANOS RUY DE GUZMAN AV. REG. DE PATRICIOS PI Y MARGALL Estación de Manionbras Alfredo L. Palacios Casa Amarilla Plaza Islas Malvinas T. LIBERTI NECOCHEA PI Y MARGALL B. MENENDEZ GUSTAVINO 100 AZARA PILCOMAYO D. ESPOSITO PILCOMAYO 500 ALF. J. RIVAS AV. MARTIN GARCIA AV. DELLEPIANE 1700 USPALLATA ITUZAINGO FINOCHIETTO Parque Lezama AZOPARDO ING. HUERGO AV. CASEROS PADRE MIGNONE BALCARCE PASEO COLON AV. BRASIL DEFENSA 1300 BOLIVAR 100 R. VERA PEÑALOZA CHACABUCO PERU COCHABAMBA COMODORO RIVADAVIA ALMTE. A S. BARILARI Lag. de los CoIpos BERNARDO DE IRIGOYEN 500 BOLIVAR SAN TELMO 1000 Lag. de los Patos TACUARI PIEDRAS AV. JUAN D EGARAY HUMBERTO 1 DIQUE 2 AV. SAN JUAN CARLOS CALVO Plaza Dorrego ESTADOS UNIDOS GIUFFRA AV. INDEPENDENCIA AZUCENA VILLAFLOR CALABRIA AV. DE LOS ITALIANOS AV. DR. ACHAVAL RODRIGUEZ E CANAL AUTOPISTA 9 DE JULIO SUR AUTOPISTA 25 DE MAYO (AU1) SAN LORENZO CHILE AZOPARDO PERITO FRANCISCO P. MORENO AV. PASEO COLON BME. MITRE Y VEDIA C BERNARDO DE IRIGOYEN AV. ESPORA A 76 MONSERRAT A SAN 68 B D NICOLAS AV. E. MADERO AV. 9 DE JULIO MEXICO 1000 AV. SAN JUAN VENEZUELA HUMBERTO AV. BELGRANO 1000 LIMA MORENO AV. LA RABIDA BALCARCE PUERTO 35 MADERO AV. MACACHA GÜEMES DEFENSA AV. A. MOREAU DE JUSTO AV. J. M. GORRITI CALLE DEL CA CARLOS CALVO ESTADOS UNIDOS C A Parque Colón E BOLIVAR AV. INT. CARLOS M. NOEL AV. J. A. ROCA PERU A E Plaza de Mayo AV. ROSALES E 00 AV. INDEPENDENCIA CHILE 25 DE MAYO 80 C CHACABUCO D 100 MEXICO AV. LEANDRO N. ALEM T. T. GUEVARA GUEV ARA AV. DE MAYO SARMIENTO V. V. OCAMPO AMPOPO MORENO BERNARDO DE IRIGOYEN PIEDRAS ESMERALDA VENEZUELA AV. BELGRANO MAIPU BME. MITRE AV. CORRIENTES ALSINA AV. 9 DE JULIO AV. 9 DE JULIO LIMA TACUARI SUIPACHA SANTIAGO DEL ESTERO B SALTA A C. PELLEGRINI 100 FLORIDA B 39 TUCUMAN C. C. C. C. GRIERSON GRIERSONERSONON CERRITO VIAMONTE PTE. L. SAENZ PEÑA SAN JOSE 500 HIPOLITO YRIGOYEN LIBERTAD VIRREY CEVALLOS TALCAHUANO AV. RIVADAVIA RECONQUISTA DIQUE BOUCHARD 100 SAN MARTIN 74 Plaza Roma AV. PTE. ROQUE SAENZ PEÑA TTE. GRAL. J. D. PERON C C LAVALLELAVALLE RETIRO AV. CORDOBA TRES SARGENTOS COMBATE DE LOS POZOS PARAGUAY AV. ENTRE RIOS A URUGUAY AV. E. MADERO SOLIS PARANA 500 Plaza del Congreso SARMIENTO NTO AV. CORRIENTESRIENTES MARCELO T. DE ALVEAR ALVEAR RICARDO CARDO ROJAS SARANDI 26 CATALINAS AV. ANTART A A MONTEVIDEO MONTEVIDEO 1500 B AV. CALLAO RODRIGUEZ PEÑA B RINCON D Plaza Gral. San Martín, SAN NARTIN Plaz Fuerza A 8

9 AV. BELGRANO MORENO AV. DE MAYO BME. MITRE AV. BELGRANO MORENO ALSINA HIPOLITO YRIGOYEN AV. RIVADAVIA ANCHORENA URIARTE O COLON O A COMBATE DE LOS POZOS E 51 C AV. ENTRE RIOS BERNARDO DE IRIGOYEN AV. J. A. ROCA SARANDI VIRREY CEVALLOS PTE. L. SAENZ PEÑA SANTIAGO DEL ESTERO PIEDRAS ESMERALDA CHACABUCO PERU MONSERRAT SAN NIC AV. ESPORA SAN JOSE BOLIVAR SOLIS SALTA LIMA DEFENSA BALCARCE AV E MADERO A A A A AV. 9 DE JULIO AV. 9 DE JULIO A A TACUARI SUIPACHA Plaza del Congreso Plaza de Mayo AV. LA E D A RABIDA TALCAHUANO LIBERTAD CERRITO MAIPU 30 AV. CALLAO RODRIGUEZ PEÑA MONTEVIDEO PARANA URUGUAY C. PELLEGRINI 25 DE MAYO 31 Parque Colón RECONQUISTA AYACACU RIOBAM AV. PTE. RO SA AV. LEANDRO AV. ROSALE MONSERRAT/ SAN NICOLAS 19. Customs 20. Basilica of the Saintly Chapel / Saint Dominicus Convent 21. Saint Francis Convent and Basilica 22. Government House 23. Columbus Monument 25. Museum of the Primitive National Congress 26. City Museum 27. San Ignacio de Loyola Church 28. The Enlightenment Block 29. Town Council 30. Metropolitan Cathedral 31. Juan de Garay s Monument 51. Nuestra Señora de Monserrat Church 53. Dos Congresos Monument 54. National Congress Building keeps numerous objects belonging to important characters of the Argentine history. The Cabildo situated on the opposite end of the square dates back to the colonial period. Witness to the debates and struggles in pursue of independence at the beginning of the XIX century, the building was the seat of the first Town Hall and it still keeps its colonial architectural features in spite of several overhauls. It was declared National Historic Monument in 1933 and it houses a Historic Museum. Opposite the Cabildo, across Avenida de Mayo stands the French style building that houses the Town Hall.. Also facing the square stands the Metropolitan Cathedral, the most important temple of the Catholic Church, official religion of the country. Its facade shows Neoclassical influences. This cathedral houses the mausoleum of General San Martín, the liberator of Argentina, Chile and Peru. A few meters from Plaza de Mayo stands the socalled Manzana de las Luces ( The Enlightenment Block ), the oldest complex of colonial buildings in the city, including the San Ignacio de Loyola Church and the Colegio Nacional Buenos Aires (Buenos Aires National College), both founded in 1710 by the Jesuit Priests. Beneath these buildings, there is a network of underground tunnels built in the XVIII century, that links the complex to other old historical buildings situated nearby. Some sections of the tunnels can be visited. A few meters away stands the City Museum, which exhibits an important collection of traditional items that belonged to the early inhabitants of the city. INCENTIVES Buenos Aires is the perfect place for an Incentive Trip. It offers a wide array of deluxe hotels belonging to traditional national companies and some of the most important international chains. Many old manors and palaces have been refurbished to house fine dinners and gala balls or theme parties. A few kilometers from Buenos Aires, the 'Pampas' is the perfect setting to enjoy the Argentine countryside and the traditions of 'gauchos'. There are also hundreds of restaurants, ranging from the classic pizzerías (pizza shops) to internationally rated restaurants directed by well-known prize-winner chefs. And, of course, all the magnetism of Tango, which is breathed in the air at every corner of the city. Every street and avenue in Buenos Aires has special features that give the city a very special touch. A most interesting example thereof is the Avenida de Mayo (May Avenue). Its layout was projected and carried out in 1883 following a Baroque urban conception. It was inaugurated in 1894 on an anniversary of the Declaration of the Argentine Independence. In the buildings, French features prevail, from Louis XIII to Art Nouveau architectural styles, and there are some Italian-style constructions too. At the time of its construction, the avenue was considered the city main street, gathering the most important hotels, shops, theatres and sidewalk cafés, such as the Pampas and Sierras AV. M M AV. MAIPU TU ON ON C 2 PASCO PASCO RIOBAMBA TUCUMAN laza a Aérea AV. CORDOBA 52 CHINCHA CHINCHA 1000 A JUNIN AYACACUCHO 500 VIAMONTE PARAGUAY SGT. CABRAL BASAVILBASO de Mayo PRES. J. E. E. URIBURU B Plaza Libertad 53 MARCELO MARCELO T. DE ALVEAR ESMERALDA PASTEUR RAUCH A AV. SANTA FE ARROYO AZCUENAGA DEL CARMEN SUIPACHA ARREA ARENALES AV. 9 DE JULIO C. PELLEGRINI CERRITO 100 JUNCAL D B ARENALES AV. PRES. QUINTANA AUT. ARTURO ILLIA Plaza Rodriguez Peña 60 7 PARERA AV. ALVEAR 2500 Plaza V. López y Planes AV. CORRIENTES JUNCAL AV. GRAL. LAS HERAS V. LOPEZ PJE. SUIZO GUIDO MONTEVIDEO VALENT RODRIGUEZ PEÑA B 500 Plaza B. Houssay 59 POSADAS 2000 LAVALLE 1000 TUCUMAN VIAMONTE PEÑA C. G SAN LUIS PACHECO DE MELO ZELAYA PARAGUAY GRAL. L. N. MANSILLA CHARCAS AV. SANTA FE ARENALES 1 RECOLETA 2 AV. CALLAO AV. DEL LIBERTADOR PADRE MUJICA C AYACUCHO MORITZ 3 SCHIAFFINO Parque Thays 3000 AV. CO JUNIN AV. PUEYRREDON JOSE E. URIBURU Plaza Intendente Alvear RDOBA D 1500 AZCUENAGA Plaza Francia Plaza Mons. de Andrea CANTILO GUIDO BERUTI AV. PUEYRREDON JUNCAL BARRIENTOS Plaza TTe. Gral. Mitre DR. L. AGOTE DR. R. LEVENE FRENCH 2000 PEÑA PACHECO DE MELO JUAN M. GUTIERREZ F. DE VITTORIA COPERNICO GRAL. GELLY Y OBES NEWTON Facultad de Derecho J. A. CABRERA LAPRIDA GALILEO SOLER 3000 D AGUERO Plaza Darío AV. DEL LIBERTADOR Plaza Cap. Gral. J. J. de Urquiza BRIG. GRAL. J. F. QUIROGA AUT. ARTURO ILLIA J. A. GORRITI 1600 GÜEMES 2500 AUSTRIA BOLLINI J. L. PAGANO AV. PRES. FIGUEROA ALCORTA PEREYRA LUCENA TAGLE DE LA CARCOVA S. DE BUSTAMANTE 3000 JUEZ ESTRADA AV. HONDURAS FERNANDEZ PARAGUAY AV. SANTA FE 2800 BILLINGHURST GUISE ANSAGASTI REP. DOMINICANA CHARCAS CORONEL. DIAZ 2000 SEVILLA MCAL. CASTILLA 3000 ORTIZ DE OCAMPO ELIZALDE OBARRIO D BULNES ZENTENO A. DE AGUADO 3100 SIVORI DR. ROCHA JUEZ TEDIN 1500 VIDT BULNES PALERMO 3200 OMBU E. COSTA DEL SIGNO Plaza Güemes SALGUERO Plaza Gral. Las Heras SAN MATEO S. L. RUGGERI ORTIZ DE OCAMPO MEDRANO JULIAN ALVAREZ 3500 FRENCH PAUNERO CASTEX ARAOZ EL LAZOSALGUERO 2500 M. CORONADO Plaza Alf. J. M. Sobral CAVIA COSTA RICA AV. SCALABRINI ORTIZ AV. SCALABRINI ORTIZ NICARAGUA GASCON 4000 D 2500 JUAN M. GUTIERREZ CABELLO CASTEX GELLY 2000 Jardín Botánico Carlos Thays CERVIÑO UGARTECHE Plaza Alemania SOLERSOLER REP. ARABE SIRIA VIRASORO 3900 AV. GRAL. LAS HERAS TUPIZA J. F. SEGUI LAFINUR Jardín Zoológico Jardín Japonés REP. DE LA INDIA JORGE LUIS BORGES D Plaza Italia AV. PRES. FIGUEROA ALCORTA Parque AV. SARMIENTO AV. A. BERRO BERUTI AV. COLOMBIA JUNCAL J. Newbery PARQUES DE PALERMO AV. CASARES RU Nuevo Circuito K.D.T DARRAGUEIRA E. ZOLA FRAY JUSTO SANTA MARIA DE ORO Sociedad Rural Argentina Centro de Exposiciones Plaza Int. Seeber J. F. KENNEDY AV. SANTA FE AV. CERVIÑO Monum. a los Españoles Plaza Gral. Páez Plaza Alte. Fernández Plaza Parque Holanda 3 de Febrero AV. IRAOLA Monum. al Gral. J. J. de Urquiza 92 DEMARIA J. F. SEGUI AV. B. ROLDAN 3000 BUSCHIAZZO GODOY CRUZ AV. PRES. MONTT AV. V. ALSINA D CHARCAS AV. INT. BULLRICH COSTA RICA NICARAGUA GUATEMALA PARAGUAY SINCLAIR 3700 Plaza Jardines de Invierno AV. INFAN TA ISABEL M. FREYRE Plaza Falucho AV AV. LUIS MARIA AV DO DOWNTOWN The Obelisk 9 de Julio Avenue Colón Theatre Florida Street RETIRO San Martin Square Museum of Spanish- American Art Isaac Fernández Blanco Central Railway Station RECOLETA Nuestra Señora del Pilar Church Cemetery Fine Arts Museum Museum of Argentine Arts José Hernández PALERMO Zoo Park Botanic Garden Japanese Garden Latin American Art Museum AV. RAMOS MEJIA AV. RAMOS MEJIA 9

10 SARMIENTO AV. CORRIENTES AV. CORDOBA TRES SARGENTOS SARMIENTO A VIAMONTE VIAMONTE Pampas and Sierras Café Tortoni where many generations of writers TANGO and artists gathered along with jazz and tango players that even nowadays delight those that visit the Buenos Aires is the world's place. On the other extreme of this avenue stands the supreme 'tangopolis'. It is National Congress Building, seat of the Legislature, impossible to visit the city which with its imposing facade of Greek-Roman features, the numerous masterpieces, its important without getting in touch with this authentic social library, and its huge central cupola, is considered expression. Enjoying a one of the most sumptuous parliamentary buildings sensual show accompanied by a good dinner is a in South America. The Judiciary has also its seat in a very beautiful 'must'. But you may prefer building, the Palacio de Tribunales (Courts House), a far outreaching experience: taking a few tango built in Neoclassical style with Roman and Greek influences, with columns and bronze sculptures lessons, attending a made by Argentine artists. It is located opposite 'milonga', and take guided Plaza Lavalle, in front of which also stands the visits to the most bohemians corners in the city Colón Theatre, which is one of the four most important opera houses in the world due to its perfect acoustics which makes it an aim for the most where this mysterious music was born and grew, famous international lyric singers, orchestras and so sensual and so also ballet dancers from all over the world. The Argentine. Discover its architecture of the building melts the general features of the Italian Renaissance with French orna- lyrics, hard to penetrate and even harder to translate, but so representative mental details. Beauty and magnificence appear in every corner of its ample and luxurious rooms, in of its inhabitants' history, the marble of different colors and in the huge 600- as the most refined poetic lamp chandelier that occupies the center of the expression. dome painted by Raúl Soldi, internationally renowned Argentine artist. The main room can seat up to 2,500 people in the stalls, boxes and the four circular levels (gods, upper gallery, gallery and peanut gallery). The backstage of the theatre, and its precious wardrobe as well as the scenography can be visited. Guided tours in Spanish and English are available Mondays thru Saturdays. A few meters away, on the northwest extreme of Plaza Lavalle stands the Teatro Nacional Cervantes whose architecture exhibits a rich Spanish Plateresque style. Its outer aspect is a slightly adapted reproduction of the University of Alcalá de Henares, with ornaments from the different Spanish regions. A few meters away, appears 9 de Julio Avenue,crossing the city from north to south. Its layout and construction was carried out at the beginning of the XX century, with eight lanes separated by small squares ornamented with fountains and sculptures, named after the Argentine provinces. It was considered, by the time of its construction, the widest avenue in South America. The most important crossroad is that of this avenue with Corrientes Avenue and Diagonal Norte, where is situated the Plaza de La República, a traditional meeting point for celebrations,such as soccer celebrations. The Obelisk,a symbol of the city, stands in the middle of the square. This plain and simple 67-meter high column was erected to celebrate the 400th anniversary of the first foundation of Buenos Aires, on the S B 22 COLAS ROQUE SAENZ PEÑA SAN MARTIN 34 O N. ALEM B C D BOUCHARD 45 FLORIDA B B B LAVALLELAVALLE O 49 D 500 C Plaza Roma TUCUMAN TUCUMAN AV. CORDOBA SON RET same site where the old San Nicolas de Bari Church stood. In one of its towers the national flag was hoisted for first time. Corrientes Avenue, probably one of the main hubs in the city that never sleeps, shows a large quantity of banks and financial offices and commercial firms, on the east side, and theatres, cinemas, restaurants, bookshops and cafés (most open 24-hours), on the west side. Among the numerous recreational places, two stand out: the shopping mall, theater and cultural center Paseo La Plaza and the Centro Cultural Teatro General San Martín (theater and cultural center), where free shows and exhibitions are often held. In downtown Buenos Aires there are two important pedestrian streets: Lavalle and Florida.The latter with its magazine stalls, its flower kiosks and pedestrians that stop to watch the street artists, is not the proper place for anyone who is in a hurry, though walking along Florida Street, makes it possible to appreciate some elegant boutiques, important bookshops and shopping malls, such as the Galerías Pacífico, which occupies the Italian Novecento style building where the Pacific Railway Company had its headquarters. It was declared National Historic Monument due to its architectural value and the masterpieces made by great masters of the Argentine painting. Another characteristic shopping district is Santa Fe Avenue,where boutiques and shops alternate with bars and restaurants. It ends in the district of Retiro, at Plaza San Martín, one of the most tree-filled green spaces in the city. Some of the most important surrounding buildings are: the Palacio Paz (Paz family s palace) which houses the Army Club and the Museum of Weapons; Kavanagh Building, which was the highest one in the city when it was constructed; the Plaza Hotel, the first deluxe hotel in Buenos Aires; and the beautiful church Basílica del Santísimo Sacramento. However, in ancient times, the commercial center of the city was the district of San Telmo, named like this after the sailors' patron St. Pedro Telmo. This is the oldest neighborhood of Buenos Aires and, according to some historians, it was the place Pedro de Mendoza chose for the first settlement in 1536, exactly in the spot where a statue built to honor him stands in Parque Lezama. On the highest part of this park stands the Museo Histórico Nacional (National 48 5 DOWNTOWN 32. Main post Office 33. Buenos Aires Stock Exchange 34. Our Lady of Mercy Basílica 35. Museum and Library Mitre 37. Church Saint Catalina of Siena 38. Borges Cultural Center 39. Galerías Pacífico Shopping Center 45. Obelisk 46. Colón Theatre Opera House 47. Central Sinagogue & Jewish Museum 49. Palace of Justice 10

11 History Museum) whose asset includes valuable documents related to most relevant Argentine history events such as: the trips of discovery and conquest, the Jesuit missions, the viceroyalties, the English invasions, the emancipation, the independence battles, the period of national organization, the democratic presidencies and the dictatorial governments. Up to the XIX century, its population was made up by prestigious families, till 1871, when a serious epidemic of yellow fever prompted most of its inhabitants to move to the northern quarters. The large residences, abandoned by its former wealthy owners, where occupied by the newly arrived immigrants. Hence, the first conventillos appeared; the old properties were several families lived together. The neighborhood still preserves good part of its old architectural heritage with its narrow sidewalks, its cobblestone streets and its old colonial houses. Famous worldwide for its antique shops, this is the place where many artists have their ateliers. Every Sunday a flea market is organized around Plaza Dorrego where craftsmen, antique dealers, musicians and tango dancers, and many other artists gather from in the morning until sunset. By night, San Telmo is also an active area. The most important tango clubs mainly frequented by local inhabitants are located here. Along with La Boca, San Telmo was the cradle of Tango, the most authentic popular Argentine music, which in spite of its humble origins in the port suburbs of Buenos Aires, has become to be worldwide renown. Its origins are traced back to 1880 and its birthplace were the slums, inhabited by Italian and Spanish immigrants, black people and gauchos. From this racial mix appeared the 'compadritos' (small-time hoods) who tried to reflect in their music, their lyrics and their dance their typical life style: the 'cuchilleros' (knife fighters) duel characteristic of their social ambient and their courtship to get the desired woman. Its music appears as a mix of Cuban and Spanish rhythms, some polka and, as some people say, also a little bit of African music. Their lyrics, difficult to understand and impossible to translate, are deeply poetic and have a story to tell about the city, its history and its people. Despite its humble and dubious origins, in the 20's tango left the brothels and the underworld to reach the high-class ballrooms, but first it had had to travel to Paris to come back triumphant. A typical characteristic of a prejudiced society that has always looked at Europe for its models. The thing is that tango finally became accepted as a complete cultural expression, a gathering of myths, values, traditions and aspirations. For some people just representative of a past epoch, in fact, tango is everywhere in the city; it is felt in city air, as humidity. Its maximum expression was Carlos Gardel,who took it all over the world with his songs and films in the 20s and 30s. There are several clubs and restaurants that offer excellent tango shows featuring first level musicians, dancers and singers. It is also possible to take tango lessons and dance with professional dancers in genuinely popular milongas (tango nightclubs) spread in different areas in the city. By the side of Riachuelo, stands the neighborhood of La Boca, with its famous alley 'Caminito', whose architectonic characteristics and customs reflect the influence of the European citizens that came to this shores in the last years of the XIX century, specially Genoese sailors that influenced not only the architecture with its typical multicolored tin houses still inhabited nowadays, but also the cuisine of the typical cantinas. Several museums enlighten the history of the district, such as the Argentine Artists' Fine Arts Museum of La Boca, with works by the famous artist Benito Quinquela Martin and other Argentine figurative artists. In the same building, busts, old Italian puppets and sculptures by Argentine artists are exhibited. On the upper floors, you can visit the old atelier and rooms that belonged to Quinquela Martin, where personal objects and thirty large oil paintings of the port and the district are kept. Another point of interest is the Boca Juniors Football Club, known as 'The Bombonera'. Its team is the most popular football team in Argentina and indeed, one of the best known worldwide. A visit to the 'Museo de la Pasión Boquense' (Museum of Boca Junior Fans' Passion), situated within the stadium ARTS AND CULTURE premises, is interesting to get in touch with the team history and its most important players. In old times, the Port of Buenos Aires held 70 % of the international commerce. The whole national production, which arrived in Buenos Aires by the well-planned railway net, built in the XIX century by English investors, was shipped from here. There are four important ports in the city: Riachuelo (which includes La Boca and Barracas), Dock Sud, Puerto Madero (built in 1887) and Puerto Nuevo (built in 1914). The latter is the one operating at present for good imports and exports. At the beginning of the 90 important recycling works were planned in order to recover the abandoned area of Puerto Madero. New streets were outlined, and the old warehouses refurbished as new blocks of flats, offices, smart restaurants, a few first level shops, and cinemas. As from its renovation the area has turned to be a 'must' for visitors and locals and a new quarter rejoined to the city. Sarmiento Frigate, the old Argentine Navy training ship turned into a Museum, is moored at dock 3. Southwards is situated the Buenos Aires, probably the most cosmopolitan city in Latin America, offers a greatly assorted cultural spectrum. Faithful to its people's international roots, the city shows at each corner architectural and artistic treasures of the most diverse styles. A guided tour led by a guide expert in arts, history or architecture, could be the gateway to a most interesting world. There are lots of museums, art galleries, theaters and movie theaters. It is important to highlight the Colon Theater, one of the Reserva Ecológica Costanera Sur (Southern best opera houses in the Riverside Ecological Reserve). A section of the riverbank started to be dried and filled in 1978 following a technique similar to the Dutch polders. From the very beginning the ponds with floating vegetation and high world, which also offers internationally rated ballet and orchestra performances. pastures that appeared, attracted bird watchers and Pampas and Sierras 11

12 SCHIAFFINO O SEVILLA Pampas and Sierras 0 RECOLETA C 1800 AYACUCHO Parque Thays R. M. MORITZ JUNIN Plaza Intendente Alvear RIBURU Plaza Francia 76 NAGA AV. PUEYRREDON GUIDO DR. L. AGOTE DR. R. LEVENE Facultad de Derecho l. Mitre F. DE VITTORIA NEWTON JUAN M. GUTIERREZ COPERNICO GRAL. GELLY Y OBES BRIG. GRAL. J. F. QUIROGA 70. Village Cimema & Restaurant Complex 71. Recoleta s Cemetery 72. Our Lady of Pilar Basilica 73. La Recoleta Cultural Center 2500 GALILEO 78 Plaza Darío AV. DEL LIBERTADOR Plaza Cap. Gral. J. J. de Urquiza 2500 AV. PRES. FIGUEROA ALCORTA J. L. PAGANO TAGLE 79 PEREYRA LUCENA JUEZ ESTRADA 2800 FERNANDEZ 80 MCAL. CASTILLA 81 JUEZ TEDIN A. DE AGUADO lovers of nature, who visited the area regularly, because of the great diversity of bird species that can be watched thereby. Open daily. Guided visits available. Northward, in the area of Puerto Nuevo, in Dársena Norte (Northern Dock), stands The Immigrant Museum,which occupies the building of the old Hotel of Immigrants. The old hotel provided lodging to lots of the immigrants who arrived in Argentina between 1880 and Leaving the port behind, we get to Retiro area where the Central Railway Station is situated. The complex was inaugurated in 1915 and shows many traits typical of the English engineering of the turn of the century. It is the central station for Mitre, Belgrano and San Martin railways that depart from there towards the north and west of the country. The building of Mitre Railway Station houses the Railway Museum with objects related to the history of the national railway network of the XIX and XX century. Facing the train stations is Plaza de la Fuerza Aérea Argentina (Air Force Square), with its clock tower, formerly called Square of the Englishmen, till the Falkands (Malvinas) war in A few blocks away from here stands the Museum of Spanish-American Art Isaac Fernández Blanco, an old neocolonial style house where an interesting collection of colonial artworks and silver objects are exhibited. Further north appears the posh quarter of La Recoleta,which combines the green of its wide squares with the surrounding smart buildings and its traditional artistic and cultural heritage. It is the most sophisticated district in the city, which gathers some of the best restaurants, coffee shops, discos and boutiques. Thereby the Recoleta Cemetery, surprises visitors because of its central uptown location, its architectural diversity and wealth and the quantity of important characters of the Argentine history and culture buried there; among them, Eva Perón. The Centro Cultural Recoleta (Recoleta Cultural Center), a former Franciscan Convent, offers temporary exhibitions, seminars, conferences and concerts. SPORTS AND LEISURE Game fishing is abundant The Intendente Alvear Square, opposite the Cultural in the Paraná River, in Center, is the place where a large handicraft fair is held several lagoons of Buenos every weekend, where it is often possible to be amused Aires, in the rivers and by assorted street artists. Another of the traditional lakes of Córdoba and in views of La Recoleta is the circular building of the the Atlantic coast. Big and Palais de Glace, that was originally an ice-skating rink, small game hunting is also and that during the 20s turned into an aristocratic available in many places. place to listen to and dance tango, frequented by welloff people. Nowadays, it is used to house temporary A wide array of nautical sports is also possible, exhibitions. The Fine Arts Museum situated nearby such as: sailing, canoeing, rowing, speed-boating, water skiing, and windsurfing. It is also interesting to attend Horse and Car Races (TC 2000, Turismo Carretera), and of course, different football, polo, rugby and golf competitions OBARRIO DR. ROCHA ELIZALDE ZENTENO SIVORI 3000 ORTIZ DE OCAMPO OMBU ORTIZ DE OCAMPO E. COSTA BULNES M. CO 74. Buenos Aires Design Shopping Center 75. Palais de Glace 76. National Fine Arts Museum 77. Municipal Exhibition Center 78. National Library RECOLETA 79. Automovil Club Argentino 80. Decorative Art and Oriental Art Museum 81. San Martin s Museum 82. Museum of Argentine Folk Heritage José Hernández boasts a particulary rich asset including the best examples of Argentine plastic art and sculpture as well as important pieces of universal art such as masterpieces by El Greco, Rubens, Goya, Van Gogh and other Impressionist artists. Palermo is the large green area of the city. The 3 de Febrero Park, which covers an area of 400 hectares, was inaugurated in 1875 to preserve the city from pollution. The park is intensely visited by the locals. On Figueroa Alcorta Avenue, stands the Latin American Art Museum, which exhibits an important collection of masterpieces done by Latin American painting artists such as Antonio Berni, Pettoruti, Frida Kahlo, Diego Rivera, among others. Within the park stands the Planetarium Galileo Galilei, building that seems an image of Saturn and where motion space shows are offered. It is possible to stroll around the parks on the typical mateos (carriages drawn by horses). Not far from there you find the Jardín Japonés (Japanese Garden) and the Museo de Motivos Argentinos José Hernández (Museum of Argentine Art José Hernandez), where several archaeological pieces, lithography works and oil paintings are exhibited, as well as elements belonging to the gaucho tradition such as musical instruments, imagery and silverware. Conferences, theater plays, movies and concerts are often held in this museum. Nearby, you find the Argentine Polo Field.This is the stage of numerous Argentine victories in polo. It has three playing fields where the most important polo matches with the best championship players are held. The first official polo match in Argentina took place at the Estancia Villanueva in Buenos Aires on August 30th The passion for this sport soon took hold of the city where, according to the experts, the field is as smooth as a chessboard and the horses have incredible conditions for training and fighting. The search for improvement in this sport led to the creation of a different breed of horses in Argentina, the product of the cross of the Creole horse with pedigree animals. This gave birth to the world famous petiso (pony) for polo. There are many polo clinics in Argentina with the aim of teaching and improving the different techniques of this sport. Argentine polo is the only one in the world that has teams with a handicap of 40 strokes, which has turned it into an important tourist attraction for those who visit the country and who will have the opportunity to watch the best teams in the world play and, eventually, to learn how to play polo. 12

13 CONGRESSES AND CONVENTIONS In Palermo neighborhood also stands the fairgrounds called La Rural, where the exhibition of Agriculture, Livestock and Industry is held once a year as well as other important international events; the Zoo; the Botanic Garden; the Argentine Hippodrome, and two entertainment and restaurant areas: Paseo de la Infanta and Arcos del Sol. The Buenos Aires Golf Club, also located nearby, opened at the beginning of the XX century, and is the most important golf course in the city. Golf is very important in Argentina, where the topography and the extension of the country have created the ideal conditions for practicing this sport. There are dozens of golf courses praised by the most prestigious players that admire their design and the quality of the grass. A few kilometers north, the area known as Northern Riverside stretches along Rafael Obligado Avenue, skirting the Río de la Plata riverbanks. The domestic Jorge Newbery Airport, is located on this avenue and houses the Aeronautic Museum, an open-air museum whose assets are related the history of aviation, where visitors can get into the cabins of the old planes. On the riverbank side of the avenue, there is a wharf on which the Fishermen s Club is situated. This is the oldest and best recognized fishing club in Argentina. Along this avenue there are also several entertainment centers. Going on northbound there is a theme park called Tierra Santa, the first religious theme park in the world, which offers an overview of Jesus life and work. At the end of the avenue there are some traditional parrillas (steakhouses) and some elegant restaurants as well. The favorite shelter for locals during weekends is Paraná River Delta and its islands, formed in the area where this river flows into the Río de la Plata, in the district called Tigre. It is located only 30 km north from Buenos Aires. The city offers a wide range of services suitable for all kind of Congresses, Conventions and Fairs: an important availability of hotels and services that meet the most demanding international standards. Many hotels offer a wide To arrive in this area from Buenos Aires, you will drive through the most elegant suburban districts such as San Isidro, located a few kilometers before Tigre, most of its mansions belong to traditional aristocratic families. The colonial constructions are on the coastal area surrounded by thick vegetation array of facilities and technical equipment adequate for different events, as well as some other Congress and Convention Centers, with strategic and magnificent river views. The San Isidro easily-accessible locations. Hippodrome has a grass racetrack and a beautiful garden. A very interesting alternative to visit this area is the Tren de la Costa (Riverside Train). It departures from Maipú Station opposite the Presidential Residence in Olivos and arrives in Tigre, bordering the river. This railway has some attractive stations that combine picturesque constructions with shops, cinemas and modern bars and restaurants. In Tigre there are numerous rowing clubs, museums, cultural centers and the Fruit Market, held during the weekends, which offers a large variety of local There are also several 'estancias' in the outskirts that are ideal to organize smaller events, in a relaxing environment in touch with nature. Though, not all has to be work. The city offers different entertainment alternatives for the spare time, such us: City Tours, Tango Shows or Gaucho Parties. products. The Parque de la Costa (Riverside Park) is a modern funfair that offers open-air shows, simulators, electronic, mechanical and interactive games, as well as some good restaurants. The Casino stands nearby. This town is the departure point towards the islands of the Paraná River Delta with a unique landscape of subtropical forests, rivers and streams. The constructions vary from large stone houses, English cottages and Italian villas to small wooden houses built on pillars, typical constructions of the islands. It is possible to take boat rides, to practice nautical sports, or to spend the day in one of its typical recreos (day resorts). A three-hour boat journey from Tigre, leads to Martin Garcia Island, the largest of the Delta islands. It used to be a fortress, was then site of navy battles during the Independence Battles, and was also prison for three Argentine presidents: Hipólito Yrigoyen, Juan D. Perón and Arturo Frondizi, overthrown by subsequent military coups that marked the Argentine history of the XX century. It is a natural reserve that protects a wide variety of flora and fauna. The city of Colonia del Sacramento, situated on the other side of the river, on the Uruguayan coast, was declared Mankind Historic Heritage of the World by UNESCO. It was founded in 1680 during the colonial times as a Spanish military bastion, to deter Portuguese invasions in the area. At the bay, the mostly untouched old town shows some colonial houses, churches, museums, a section of the fortress wall ruins, and narrow cobblestone streets. Very near you reach the Yatch Port and the New City. Catamarans to visit Colonia depart from Puerto Madero. It is possible to go there for the day or maybe to spend some night in the city. Some 177 km away it is located Montevideo, the capital city of Uruguay, with a 22 km coast on the Río de Plata riverside. The Old City, where the Citadel Gate and the old wall ruins are located, spreads over a peninsula surrounded by the sea, near the Metropolitan Port. Through the Citadel Gate, it is possible to get to the New City, where the Independence Square is located, the biggest one in the city. Going on along the coast we find the Open City, where shopping malls, beaches and the Carrasco Residential Area are located. It is also possible to go there for the day or to spend one or two nights, departing from Puerto Madero, in Buenos Aires, or by plane from the domestic airport. Pampas and Sierras 13

14 PAMPAS AND SIERRAS The Pampas Pampas and Sierras AGRICULTURAL TRIPS The Pampas has a lot to offer to those interested in getting to know the secrets of all Argentinean agricultural activities: the most important breeds, main crops, dairies, artificial irrigation methods. Diverse programs covering the different regions of the province are offered, according to the specific motivations of each group. All groups are accompanied by expert professionals in each field. Technical visits are carefully planned and performed in-situ, which makes it possible to get in touch with farmers, agronomists and local experts. The INTA Research Stations are also invaluable sources of firsthand information specific to the required field of the agricultural tasks. An immense plain that stretches in the central area of the country. It occupies most of the provinces of Buenos Aires and La Pampa, the southern area of Santa Fe, Córdoba and Entre Ríos covering a total area of about 1,000 km 2 (630 sq miles) and with a fertile productive soil reached a depth of 2,5 meters (8 feet). Its smooth landscape exhibits a monotonous vegetation of small bushes, grass and gramineous. The only tree originary from these plains, the ombú, is in fact a big bush. The best way to have a close look at the country life is by taking part in a Fiesta Gaucha. A full day spent at an estancia enjoying a warm welcome with empanadas (meat stuffed pastries), tasting a good asado (Argentine barbecue prepared in the same fashion that gauchos have been keeping for more than 200 years) with excellent local wine, enjoying a folk show and demonstration of gaucho skills and breathing some fresh air wandering around, horseback ridings or simply relaxing in touch with nature. Undoubtedly, one of the most important worldwide renowned attractions of Argentina is beef. A few minutes away from the city, in Mataderos suburban district, the 'Mercado Nacional de Hacienda de Liniers' (Liniers Livestock Cattle Market) is located, where all activities related to commercialization of cattle of the finest races come from all over the country. Daily, the market receives thousands of live animals that are classified and concentrated in stockyards to be sold in public auction. It is possible to see the rodeos, the weighing of the animals on cattle scales and the auctions performed by the most important commissioners of the market. The actions are directed with the hammer and by alive kilo, a style unique in the world. The building also houses the 'Museo Criollo de los Corrales' (Creole Museum of the Stockyards). Some 115 km (72 miles) from Buenos Aires stands the small village of San Antonio de Areco, which in spite of being only two hours away from the city has succeeded in preserving the image of the gaucho. The place is the cradle of his traditional culture where each Enlarged Area Bragado Scale in km Pergamino Chacabuco Chivilcoy N 51 Arrecifes San Antonio de Areco San Andrés de Giles 5 Mercedes Zárate Campana 8 Escobar Open Door Pilar Luján Buenos Aires 205 Saladillo 41 9 Lobos Cañuelas San Miguel del Monte 3 Tigre San Vicente 41 Cnel. Brandsen 215 Río de la Plata 29 Laguna Vitel La Plata 2 Chascomús Gral. Belgrano year, on the second week of November the Celebration of Tradition is held. By 1725 it marked the limit with the aborigines territory and it represented a forced stop on the road from Buenos Aires to Peru. One of the pulperías (typical mixture of grocery, bar and gambling house) where the gauchos used to meet is still kept as part of the 'Museo Gauchesco Ricardo Güiraldes' (Gaucho Museum Ricardo Güiraldes). Its building is the replica of an estancia main house and exhibits paintings and gauchos everyday life objects. It is also possible to visit the atelier of some of the numerous artists that produce leather and silver crafts or drawings related to gaucho way of life. This is the ideal place to spend a day in a ranch, sharing the agriculture and cattle breeding activities, since in this region gather some of the most prosperous ranches in the country. The city of Luján, known as the National Capital of Faith is located 70 km (44 miles) west from Buenos Aires. This city developed around the imposing Sanctuary of the Vírgen de Luján, saint patron of Argentina, Uruguay and Paraguay, a gothic-style building featured by its two 106 meter (350 feet) towers. This is the most important pilgrimage center of the country, where thousands of people gather each year. It is interesting to visit some of its museums, such as the Colonial History Museum placed in the old Town Hall, with a valuable collection of weapons and military uniforms, objects of the Hispanic Art, Colonial silverware, and aborigines and gauchos handicrafts; or the Transport Museum, with a wide collection of carriages, planes and including the first steam engine of the country, called La Porteña. 14

15 Other museums that can be visited are the Wax Museum, and the Fine Arts Museum. LA PLATA The capital of Buenos Aires province located 56 km (35 miles) from Buenos Aires city. It was founded in 1882, and is an example of urban planning with its streets, avenues and diagonals masterly matching with extensive green areas. Its public buildings show different architectural styles: the Neo-Gothic Cathedral, the City Hall, the Legislature and the Government Palace. Its Natural Science Museum,founded at the end of the XIX century, with the most relevant paleontological, botanical and zoological collections of South America, is quite important. Other interesting places are the National Observatory, the Wild Animal Breeding Station and the República de los Niños (Children's Republic), where there are miniature replicas of the most important public buildings of Argentina. THE BEACHES ON THE ATLANTIC COAST Going south from Buenos Aires, as from the small village of San Clemente onwards, series of beaches and seaside resorts spread along the Atlantic Ocean coast. The best known among them are: Santa Teresita, Mar del Tuyú, San Bernardo, Mar de Ajó, Pinamar, Ostende, Valeria del Mar, Villa Gesell, Mar Chiquita, Santa Clara del Mar, Mar del Plata. Mar del Plata is undoubtedly the most famous seaside resort of the Argentine Atlantic coast, known as the Happy City or the Atlantic Pearl. The airport, situated just a few kilometers north from the city, receives several 30-minute long flights a day from Buenos Aires. The main activities are tourism and fishing; and it is also the center of an important agricultural and cattle breeding region. Its 47 km (30 mile) long beach stripe with bays, and rock cliffs and its excellent service infrastructure make it a favorite destination. The city, founded in 1874, developed at a vertiginous speed, becoming soon o top-notch destination for the elite. Nowadays, the city has taken a much more popular edge, becoming the perfect destination for people belonging to all social classes. Mar del Plata keeps its traditional French style houses mostly built in stones from the nearby quarries, red bricks and tiled roofs. Some of these villas can be visited, such as Villa Victoria. It is also possible to visit its several museums, shopping malls and the Casino. A few minutes from downtown stands the Aquarium, which covers 10 hectares (25 acres), and houses a great variety of fishes, sea mammals; offers shows performed by dolphins and sea-lions; has a pond where the marine flora and fauna of the Pampas can be appreciated, and a small sea water lagoon for aquatic ski and nautical exhibitions. A few meters away the Punta Mogotes Lighthouse, belonging to the Marine, was built in It is the oldest in the country, and boasted a remarkable radio system. Going on southward, in the place called Barranca de los Lobos, the cliff reaches a height of 45 m (150 feet) offering a superb panoramic view of the surrounding area. It is also worth visiting the Port with its shopping and gastronomic center, where the yellow boats loaded with the fish that is the product of the daily toil coming back at sunset offer a view full of local color. The port houses also a small sea lion settlement, that have chosen a rather incredible place to abode. The exclusive Mar del Plata Golf Club of Playa Grande, is situated nearby, in the most posh area of the city, where the best hotels and seaside resorts are also located. The Club House occupies a beautiful English style manor. The club is one of the most elegant golf clubs in the country, since due to its privileged position allows, from its course, astounding panoramic views of the ocean, the beaches, the jetties, and the port. Mar del Plata is surrounded by large green spaces, offering a great assortment of facilities for the practice of football, rugby, hockey, golf and polo; a Riding Club and School. The nearby area of Sierra and Laguna de los Padres is also very attractive and has a good polo course submersed in a beautiful natural environment. Amazingly near the city, there are lots of large ranches dedicated mostly to agriculture, producing corn, sunflower, wheat, potato, soybean, fruits and olives. Leaving Mar del Plata southbound, along the maritime coastal line there are other small seaside cities such as Miramar, Claromecó, Monte Hermoso and Necochea. 33 Enlarged Area Gral. Villegas Trenque Lauquen 33 Tornquist 35 Mayor Buratovich 3 Daireaux Pehuajó Laguna Cochicó 60 Guaminí Sierra de la Ventana Bahía Blanca Rojas Lincoln Pergamino Monte Hermoso Claromecó San Antonio de Areco Junín Bolívar 9 de Julio 9 Luján Chivilcoy Buenos Aires Laprida Cnel. Pringles Azul Olavarría Tres Arroyos San Pedro Tigre 12 Zárate Lobos Benito Juárez 226 Cañuelas Necochea Buenos Aires Balcarce URUGUAY La Plata 2 36 Saladillo Gral. Belgrano Las Flores 11 3 Dolores 29 Rauch Tandil Ayacucho Atlantic Ocean Chascomús 74 Miramar 56 Mar del Plata Scale in km Río de la Plata Pinamar Villa Gesell San Clemente del Tuyú San Bernardo N Pampas and Sierras 15

16 Pampas and Sierras Another city dedicated to agriculture and cattle raising is Balcarce, where the Experimental Station of the INTA (National Institute for Agriculture and Cattle-raising Technology) is located. It is well worth visiting its calm streets, as well as the Museo del Automovilismo Juan Manuel Fangio (Car Racing Museum Juan Manuel Fangio ), which honors the five-time Grand Prix world champion racing driver who was the most famous citizen. The local INTA station is specialized in the study of animal nutrition (ruminant species) and bovine interbreeding for improvement of the species (Aberdeen Angus, Hereford, Shorthorn, Holstein, Charolais, Limusin, Fleckvieh-Simmental, Pardo Suizo y Chanina, among others) as well as in the study of crops and pastures such as wheat, sunflower, soybean and maize which are abundant in the region. The station is also the only one dedicated to the study of potato cultivation, perfectly adapted to the local ecosystem. There is also in the station a section of the Agrarian Sciences School. The city of Tandil is located within short distance of Balcarce. The city is the heart of a cattle-breeding region, dedicated also to dairy activities and cheese production. Tandil is also an important tourism center mainly for domestic tourism, charming especially due to its hilly surroundings. The main attraction are: the Via Crucis which each year, during the Holy Week, becomes an important center of pilgrimage; and some curious stone formation on the top of the hills such as the Sentry or the Movediza ( the Balancing Stone ), filled by the popular custom with assorted legends. The massif of the Sierras de Tandil along with that of the Sierras de la Ventana, in the southern extreme of Buenos Aires province, are part of the oldest geological stratum in the continent, the so-called massif of Brasilia. Sierras de la Ventana offers several river beaches, camping sites and an important golf course. In the area, the Provincial Park Ernesto Tornquist is worth a visit. It is a natural reserve created to protect the flora and fauna of the sierras. In the surroundings it is also possible to practice windsurf, motor-cross biking, or mountain bike. 100 km (62.50 miles) south from Sierras de la Ventana and 600 km (375 miles) from Buenos Aires stands Bahía Blanca,important because of its production of winter and summer cereals, and its deep-water port of Ingeniero White, which plays an important role in the export of the production of the province and of the surrounding provinces. The name Bahía Blanca (White Bay) comes from the quantity of salt-pits spread in the surroundings. It is possible to visit the zoo, the Natural Science Museum, the History Museum and a picturesque neighborhood situated near the railway station. North of Bahía Blanca, in the Sierras of Cura Malal and Bravard, stands the city of Pigüé,where many French, Italian, Spanish and German immigrants settled when the railway reached the area, turning it into the most important railway center in the south of the province. The city has a beautiful landscape with coves and streams, and lagoons where activities such as sport fishing and nautical sports are available, as well as non-conventional tourism and adventure activities such as paragliding, trekking, horse riding, camping, and agro-tourism. The countryside makes it possible to combine nature and typical traditions. There are ranches that provide lodging permitting a closest contact with cattle raising and agriculture activities that are typical in the region. Near Pigüé, the cities of Guaminí and Carhué, located within short distance of the salt-water lagoon of Epecuén, are the perfect place to take advantage of the therapeutic properties of the waters. There are other cities devoted to agriculture in the region, such as Coronel Pringles and Lobería,which are dedicated to winter pasture crops such as oat and rye grass for cattle breeding. Belén de Escobar, known as the national capital of the flower, is located in the north of Buenos Aires province. In October, an important celebration is held, the Flower Feast, which includes an important exhibition of flowers and gardens, gathering the flower producers of the area; as well as a chart parade and the selection of queens of beauty. The land extending in the north of Buenos Aires and south of Santa Fe, can be considered the most fertile soil in the country for cereal production, specially wheat, sorghum, maize and soybean. The area is limited by the triangle marked by the cities of Pergamino (in Buenos Aires province), Venado Tuerto and Rosario (in Santa Fe province). In Pergamino there is an INTA Experimental Station (National Institute of Agriculture and Cattle-Raising) devoted to the investigation and programs for the improvement of maize. High-technology maize hybrids purposely prepared are cultivated in the region. Further north the town of San Pedro, probably the nicest small city in Buenos Aires province, is worth a short visit. ROSARIO, PROVINCE OF SANTA FE Once in the province of Santa Fe, the city of Rosario is the third most important one in the country after Buenos Aires and Córdoba, and the second one in population. You reach there in a 3-hour highway drive along National Route 9. It was founded in 1730 when some families of the city of Santa Fe (capital of the province) moved south due to the continuous aborigine attacks. It was in Rosario de la Vera Cruz (that is the complete name of the city) where General Manuel Belgrano created the Argentine flag in 1812, by the Paraná River. The city is one of the main commercial and industrial centers of the Pampas, since most of its agricultural production is exported through its port, which boasts most modern premises and technology. The city offers beautiful views of the Paraná River. On the banks of the river stands the Monumento a la Bandera (Monument to the Flag), a majestic work designed by Argentine artists. PROVINCE OF CORDOBA Continuing along National Route 9, 170 km (106 miles) from Rosario, in the province of Córdoba, the first city that appears is the small city of Marcos Juárez,which is center of a region mainly devoted to wheat, soybean, alfalfa, maize and oleaginous crops. Flax was introduced at the end of the XIX century, and is specially used for the textile and oleaginous industries. In past years, Argentina was among the first producers of oleaginous crops in the world. Oats and barley were also introduced at the end of the XIX century while rye, millet, sunflower and sorghum were introduced at the beginning of the XX century. On along National Route 9, 400 km (250 miles) from Rosario and 713 (445 miles) from Buenos Aires, you finally reach Córdoba, capital city of the homonymous province. 16

17 P AMPAS AND SIERRAS Córdoba It is the second most important city in Argentina. It was founded in 1573, before Buenos Aires, by an expedition coming from the north, because of its strategic location in the crossroad of the routes that lead from Chile and the Alto Peru (Bolivia at present) to the port of Buenos Aires; thus becoming the most important city during the colonial period. Visiting Córdoba you discover the contrast that exists between modern buildings and its well-preserved historic wealth. Beautiful parks, historic sites, museums must be admired as well as its huge architectural heritage, such as: the Cathedral and the Cabildo both started to be built in the XVII century but finally finished by the XIX century; Bishop Mercadillo s Oratory, built at the beginning of the XVIII century; the 'Iglesia de Santa Teresa y Convento de las Carmelitas' (Church and Convent of the Carmelite Nuns, also called Las Teresas ), that at present houses the Religious Art Museum; and the Jesuit Block constituted by: the Monserrat School dating back to 1685, the Jesus Society Church, the oldest one in the country, which dated back to 1640, the Domestic Chapel and the University, created in 1613 which was one of the first ones in the continent. Thanks to the huge early educative labor of the Jesuit priests, the city was called La Docta (meaning the cultivated one ) and has been always characterized by its permanent progressive and at the same time traditional spirit. It is very easy for travelers to move around in the city due to the rectangular grid of the streets which is typical of the Spanish settlements. The best way to visit the historic center is on foot, since many of its streets are pedestrian ones and in the rest traffic is rather heavy. There are also many green spaces such as San Martín Square, the Independence Square, Sarmiento Park, the Paseo de las Artes, situated over 'La Cañada', a tree-lined narrow channel that crosses the city, San Martín and Las Heras parks, over the Suquía river, which runs also within the city. Córdoba also offers a considerable array of museums such as the Provincial Historic Museum Sobremonte s household, the Art Museum, located in the residential neighborhood of 'Cerro de Las Rosas', near the Olympic Stadium and next to the Córdoba Fairground. Leaving the city northbound along National Route 9 it is possible to reach several Jesuit Estancias, traveling the so-called Road of the Jesuit Estancias. In this area, the Jesuits developed one of the most important productive centers of agriculture and cattle-raising of Latin America; a series of ranches that in the year 2000 have been declared Mankind s Cultural Heritage by UNESCO. They established their large estancias (ranches) with the purpose of providing all the necessary supplies to their educative organization in the city. After the ejection of the Jesuit Order in 1767, the properties were left under the control of the State and were adapted to different uses; nowadays they have all turned into relics of great historic value. An example of them is the Estancia de Caroya, which was the first ranch acquired by the Jesuit priests in 1616 and was later used as a vacation residence for the interns of the Monserrat School. Later on operated there the first white weapon factory for the Northern Army during the wars of the national independence and also served, in time, as residence to the first Italian immigrants (from Friuli) that founded nearby the Lago San Roque Va.C.Paz Embalse Los Molinos 20 Embalse Río Tercero La Falda Embalse 9 Córdoba Río Tercero Almafuerte Berrotarán 19 Río Segundo Córdoba 9 Río Tercero 10 Río Primero Río Segundo Arroyito La Playosa Villa María Saturnino M. Laspiur Las Varillas Enlarged Area Santa Fe Pampas and Sierras Río Cuarto Alcira 158 Cnel. Baigorria Río Cuarto Laborde Bell Ville 9 Leones Marcos Juárez 12 Scale in km N 17

18 Pampas and Sierras town of Colonia Caroya. It is an outstanding example of rural residential architecture. Nowadays there is a Visitor s Center and a thematic museum, which can be visited with local guides. Nearby, in the village of Jesus María is placed the Estancia de Jesus María, the second productive complex founded in It was characterized by its wine production, which achieved a high level of development and quality. The church, the residence, the cellar and some of the tools used in this production can be seen. The whole complex constitutes at present the National Jesuit Museum. A dirt road, leads to the Posta de Sinsacate, located a few kilometers northward. The building was the cart halt for the wagons traveling from the Alto Perú to Córdoba or Buenos Aires. In the vicinity, stands the Estancia Santa Catalina, founded in Its church, with an imposing facade, two towers and curved porch is one of the best examples of the so-called colonial Baroque style, which is a local adaptation of the center-european Baroque architecture. The estancia was the largest agriculture production center of the whole system with thousands of bovine and sheep cattle heads, and mules. It was also devoted to the production of apparels, iron-works and carpentry, it had also a batan, two windmills and a great tajamar (man-made lake) fed by the underground water nourishment that came from Ongamira, up in the 'Sierras Chicas', several kilometers away. It is also interesting to reach Ascochinga, with its important golf course and the Estancia La Paz, which used to belong to General Julio A. Roca, one of the important characters in Argentine history. In the way back to Córdoba, along the route of the 'Sierras Chicas', some attractive villages are crossed, such as Salsipuedes, with its nearby church, the 'Iglesia de Candonga', dating back to the XVIII century, which used to be part of another Jesuit ranch, today disappeared. The way up to the church is a tortuous dirt road hard to travel but the place deserves the effort. The route goes then through 'Río Ceballos' and finally Villa Allende, where there is another important golf course. Towards the northwest of the city the Punilla Valley stretches in a North-South direction. The height of its hills vary from 600 (1,990 feet) to 1,980 meters (6,594 feet) above see level in the Uritorco hill, its highest altitude. It offers a varied tourist infrastructure of different categories. One of the most attractive tourist centers frequented by the Argentineans is the city of Villa Carlos Paz,located on the margins of San Roque Lake, formed by the dam of the same name, which constitutes one of the most important hydroelectric complexes in Argentina. Nautical sports are available as well as a large array of entertainment activities and an intense nightlife. Other important cities along the Punilla Valley are: Cosquín,National Capital of the Folklore; La Falda,a quiet tourist center; La Cumbre,a beautiful village with sophisticated old residences and one of the best golf courses in the country; Los Cocos,with its smart households; and finally, Capilla del Monte, at the foot of the Uritorco Hill, which might be said to have a certain aspect similar to a typical town of La Puna, something that is breath in the air, maybe. In the old times, the surrounding sierras were occupied by the Comechingones, local aborigines. They lived in stone huts, were devoted to agriculture, hunting and fishing, and produced pottery and knitted articles. In all cities beautiful handicrafts can be acquired, especially in the Road of the Craftsmen, near La Cumbre. In the Calamuchita Valley, towards the southwest of the province, the Jesuit presence appears once again, in the city of Alta Gracia, aroused around the Jesuit Estancia of Alta Gracia, which still preserves untouched its architectural heritage that dates back to the XVII century. The ranch has also historic relevance because it was residence of the former Viceroy Santiago de Liniers during the colonial times and was also prison for the English soldiers taken as war hostages after the British Invasions to the Rio de la Plata Viceroyalty at the beginning of the XIX century. It is possible to visit its XVIII century church, and the residence which exhibits objects belonging to its different stages of the household. It is particularly interesting to see the blacksmith s forge and the tajamar which is an important highlight in the city. Going on southwards, skirting the artificial lake of Los Molinos, there is a picturesque village called Villa General Belgrano,where lots of center-european immigrants settled, attracted by the peacefulness and beauty of the region, building an Alpine-style village. Its popular feast have also a strong European flavor, such as the Feast of the Viennese Patisserie, the Feast of the Alpine Chocolate and particularly the Oktoberfest, during which all the accommodation in the city is always fully booked. Other enchanting village that can be visited from Villa General Belgrano is La Cumbrecita, a paradisiacal tiny town situated on the hill of the same name, at a height of 1,450 meters (4, feet) above sea level, in the middle of dense forest of pines and other local species. It is also a typically center-european village, which has the enormous pride of having been declared, in 1996, the first pedestrian town of the country. Cars must be parked at the entrance of the town and the visit must be done on foot. Some other important towns along the valley are Santa Rosa de Calamuchita, Villa del Dique and some smaller towns, till reaching the huge artificial lake of Embalse Río Tercero with its nuclear power plant. To arrive in the Traslasierra Valley visitors have to cross the 'Sierras Grandes' (High Sierras), through the tortuous road known as Road of the High Peaks whose maximum height reaches up to 2,400 meters (7,992 feet). Half way between Córdoba and Mina Clavero, the traveler can find the 'Parque Nacional Quebrada del Condorito' (Condor s Ravine National Park), which has been created in order to protect the characteristic fauna and morphology of the area, and specially to preserve the Andean condor, endangered species that chose this place as its abode. The park is visited on foot in a walk that takes several hours. Back along the main route (the most important vial work in the province), it is possible to observe its fascinating scenery of deep ravines, abysses and a few cascades, so as to reach the small villages of Mina Clavero and Cura Brochero,two typical summer vacation spots where the rivers have waters that are considered to have curative properties due to its mineral contents. It is also interesting to visit 'La Viña' Dam, 55 km (34 miles) away from Mina Clavero, whose 102-meter-high (340 feet) wall, makes it the second one in height in the American Continent. Besides the practice of nautical sports that the numerous rivers and artificial lakes of the region allow, both Calamuchita and Punilla Valleys are quite appropriate places to practice some adventure activities: particularly trekking, horseback riding, climbing (level: moderate to difficult), rappel, paragliding and other extreme sports. The ascent to Mount Champaquí, starting at the village of Yacanto, as well as to the Los Gigantes Massif, makes an exciting challenge for those who prefer more demanding climbing alternatives. 18

19 PAMPAS AND SIERRAS Buenos Aires City and surroundings CLASSIC CITYTOUR HALF DAY TOUR (3 HOURS) Itinerary: Departure from the hotel Plaza de Mayo Avenida de Mayo Congress Palace 9 de Julio Avenue Colón Theatre San Telmo La Boca Puerto Madero Palermo Recoleta Return to the hotel. CITYTOUR - NORTH AND RESIDENTIAL AREAS HALF DAY TOUR (3 HOURS) Itinerary: Departure from the hotel Recoleta Visit to the Cemetery and its monuments Palermo Chico 3 de Febrero Park Palermo Lakes Libertador Avenue Belgrano district San Isidro district Return to the hotel. CITYTOUR - SOUTHERN AND HISTORICAL AREAS HALF DAY TOUR (3 HOURS) Itinerary: Departure from the hotel Plaza de Mayo Avenida de Mayo Congress Palace 9 de Julio Avenue Colón Theatre La Boca San Telmo Return to the hotel. Pampas and Sierras CLASSIC CITYTOUR AND HOLY LAND FULL DAY TOUR (6 HOURS) Itinerary: Departure from the hotel Plaza de Mayo Avenida de Mayo Congress Palace 9 de Julio Avenue Colón Theatre San Telmo La Boca Puerto Madero Palermo Recoleta Rafael Obligado Riverside Avenue Holy Land Theme Park Return to the hotel. TIGRE AND PARANA RIVER DELTA HALF DAY TOUR (4 HOURS) Total distance traveled: 80 km (50 miles). Itinerary: Departure from the hotel Northern suburban districts Presidential Residence in Olivos San Isidro Tigre Boat drive in the Paraná River Delta Return to the hotel. This tour can be done as a full day tour (8 hours), including lunch. 19

20 CITYTOUR BY NIGHT HALF DAY TOUR (3 HOURS) Itinerary: Departure from the hotel 9 de Julio Avenue Obelisk Corrientes Avenue Puerto Madero Libertador Avenue Palermo Recoleta Return to the hotel. TANGO SHOW EXCURSION BY NIGHT (3 HOURS). Itinerary: Departure from the hotel Transfer to a Tango Night Club to enjoy the show Return to the hotel. Optional: Dinner COLON THEATRE 1 HOUR AND A HALF TOUR. Itinerary: Departure from the hotel guided visit within the Colón Theatre (1 hour) Return to the hotel. This visit can be added to the private citytour. Pampas and Sierras MUSEUM TOUR HALF DAY TOUR (3 HOURS) Itinerary: Departure from the hotel Museum of Argentine Objects José Hernandez National Decorative Arts Museum Museum of Spanish American Art Isaac Fernández Blanco Return to the hotel. Note: Visit to two of the above mentioned museums is included in this tour. ART MUSEUM TOUR HALF DAY TOUR (3 HOURS) Itinerary: Departure from the hotel Fine Arts National Museum Modern Arts Museum Buenos Aires Museum of Latin American Art (MALBA) Return to the hotel. Note: Visit to two of the above mentioned museums is included in this tour. TIGRE AND PARANA DELTA WITH RIVERSIDE TRAIN HALF DAY TOUR (4 HOURS). Total distance traveled: 80 km (50 miles). Itinerary: Departure from the hotel Northern suburban districts Presidential Residence in Olivos San Isidro Riverside Train to Tigre Boat drive in the Paraná River Delta Return to the hotel. This tour can be done as a full day tour (8 hours), including lunch. 20

21 TIGRE AND PARANA RIVER DELTA WITH RIVERSIDE TRAIN 2 DAYS / 1 NIGHT TWO DAYS TOURS. Total distance traveled: 80 km (50 miles). Itinerary: Day 1: Departure from the hotel Northern suburban districts Presidential Residence in Olivos San Isidro Riverside Train to Tigre Boat drive in the Paraná River Delta Accommodation at a River Lodge. Day 2: Navigation along the Paraná River Delta streams back to Tigre Pier Return to the hotel. EVITA S TOUR AND SAN ISIDRO FULL DAY TOUR (6 HOURS). Itinerary: Departure from the hotel 9 de Julio Avenue Plaza de Mayo Former Eva Perón s Foundation CGT Building (General Labor Union) Luna Park Club 45's Recoleta Cemetery (Evita's Tomb) Evita's Monument Presidential Residence in Olivos San Isidro (Historical District) Return to the hotel Optional: Documental Film at the Historical Investigations Institute and Lunch EVITA S TOUR, SAN ISIDRO AND TIGRE FULL DAY TOUR (8 HOURS). Total distance traveled: 80 km (50 miles). Itinerary: Departure from the hotel 9 de Julio Avenue Plaza de Mayo Former Eva Perón s Foundation CGT Building (General Labor Union) Luna Park Club 45's Recoleta Cemetery (Evita's Tomb) Evita's Monument Presidential Residence in Olivos San Isidro (Historical District) Hippodrome Riverside Train to Tigre Boat ride in the Delta Return to the hotel. Optional: Documental Film at the Historical Investigations Institute and Lunch. GAUCHO PARTY WITH LUNCH FULL DAY TOUR (8 HOURS). Total distance traveled: 240 km (150 miles). Itinerary: Departure from the hotel General Paz Freeway Panamericana Highway Arrival at the Estancia Welcome drink with wine and stuffed pastries Barbecue lunch Folk Show and Gaucho Skills Time at leisure Return to the hotel. Important: This tour is operated on specific days. On Sundays the tour includes a visit to San Telmo Antiques Market. On Wednesdays it includes a brief visit to Luján Cathedral. Pampas and Sierras LUJAN FULL DAY TOUR (8 HOURS). Total distance traveled: 110 km (69 miles). Itinerary: Departure from the hotel 25 de Mayo Highway Del Oeste Highway Lujan City Tour Cabildo Museum Cathedral Nuestra Señora de Lujan Return to the hotel. Lunch included LA PLATA FULL DAY TOUR (6 HOURS). Total distance traveled: 140 km (87.50 miles). Itinerary: Departure from the hotel Buenos Aires/La Plata Highway República de los Niños (Children's Republic) La Plata City Tour Natural Science Museum Return to the hotel. 21

22 COLONIA DEL SACRAMENTO FULL DAY TOUR (MINIMUM LENGHT: 07 HOURS DEPENDABLE ON THE HYDROFOIL SCHEDULE). Itinerary: Departure from the hotel Transfer to the pier Navigation to Colonia del Sacramento Meet & Greet at the pier and City tour including: Plaza Mayor (Main Square), the Lighthouse, Old Colonial Fortress Ruins, New City, Plaza de Toros del Real de San Carlos Transfer to the pier Return to Buenos Aires Return to the hotel. Optional: Lunch. MONTEVIDEO FULL DAY TOUR (MINIMUM LENGHT: 12 HOURS DEPENDABLE ON THE HYDROFOIL SCHEDULE). Itinerary: Transfer to the pier Navigation to Montevideo meet & greet at the pier City tour including the Old City: Puerta de la Ciudadela, Constitution Square, Cathedral, Cabildo, Zabala Square, Solís Theatre; the New City: Independence Square, Estévez Palace, Salvo Palace, 18 de Julio Avenue, Entrevero Square, Legislative Palace (Congress); and Open City: Prado District, Montevideo Hill, Government House, Batlle Park, Carrasco Residential Area Transfer to the pier Return to the hotel. Optional: Lunch. Pampas and Sierras MONTEVIDEO-3 DAYS /2 NIGHTS THREE-DAY TOUR. Itinerary: Day 1: departure from the hotel Transfer to the pier Navigation to Montevideo Transfer to the hotel Accommodation at hotel City tour. Day 2: departure from the hotel Visit to Punta del Este: Punta Ballena Casapueblo - Las Grutas, Chiringo, La Mansa and La Brava beaches Residential districts: El Emir, La Olla, San Rafael, Golf Club, Beverly Hills - La Barra de Maldonado Shopping mall Piriápólis Return to the Hotel Accommodation. Day 3: Transfer to pier Navigation back to Buenos Aires Transfer to the hotel. PUNTA DEL ESTE-3 DAYS/ 2 NIGHTS THREE-DAY TOUR. Itinerary: Day 1: departure from the hotel Transfer to the airport Flight to Punta del Este Transfer to the hotel Accommodation. Day 2: City tour including: the Port El Emir La Brava Beach - San Rafael Golf Club - Beverlly Hills - Barra de Maldonado Punta Ballena Casapueblo La Mansa Beach Shopping Mall Return to the hotel. Accommodation. Day 3: Departure from the hotel Transfer to the airport Flight back to Buenos Aires Transfer to the hotel. PAMPAS AND SIERRAS Mar del Plata CITYTOUR HALF DAY TOUR (2 HOURS). Itinerary: Departure from the hotel Panoramic Point Golf Club Punta Mogotes lighthouse Peralta Ramos wood The Fishers Port and the fishing ships Los Troncos Residential District Lourdes Sanctuary and Grove The Beaches - Water Tower Alem Commercial Street Casino Civic Center Cathedral San Martín Pedestrian Street Return to the hotel. 22

23 AQUARIUM FULL DAY TOUR (6 HOURS). Itinerary: Departure from the hotel Aquarium Time at leisure to enjoy the park and attend the shows Return to the hotel. SIERRA AND LAGUNA DE LOS PADRES HALF DAY TOUR (2 HOURS). Itinerary: Departure from the hotel - Luro Avenue Lagoon & Sierra de los Padres Residential Park Neighborhood Golf Club Pulperia (Old Gaucho Bar) Return to the hotel. MIRAMAR HALF DAY TOUR (3 HOURS). Total distance traveled: 95 km (60 miles). Itinerary: Departure from the hotel Chapadmalal Tourism Center Golf Club Miramar city and the pinewood Aerodrome Return to the hotel. BALCARCE AND JUAN MANUEL FANGIO MUSEUM FULL DAY TOUR (6 HOURS). Total distance traveled: 150 km (94 miles). Itinerary: Departure from the hotel Laguna and Sierra de los Padres Balcarce Quarries Car Racing Museum Car Racing Track Fangio's native house Return to the hotel. Pampas and Sierras SAN CLEMENTE AND MUNDO MARINO (SEA WORLD) FULL DAY TOUR (6 HOURS). Total distance traveled: 500 km (313 miles). Itinerary: Departure from the hotel Atlantic beaches: Santa Clara del Mar Mar Chiquita Querandí Lighthouse Villa Gesell Pinamar Mar de Ajó San Bernardo Mar del Tuyú Santa Teresita Las Toninas San Clemente del Tuyú Sea World Return to the hotel. 23

24 PAMPAS AND SIERRAS Córdoba CITYTOUR HALF DAY TOUR (4 HOURS). Itinerary: Departure from the hotel San Martin Square Cabildo (Old City Hall) Cathedral Church Municipality Courthouse Government House University Sarmiento Park Zoo Return to the hotel. PUNILLA VALLEY FULL DAY TOUR (10 HOURS). Itinerary: Departure from the hotel La Calera Diquecito San Roque Dam Cosquín La Falda Huerta Grande Villa Giardino La Cumbre Cruz Chica Cruz Grande Los Cocos Capilla del Monte La Toma Villa Carlos Paz Return to the hotel. Pampas and Sierras SIERRAS CHICAS HALF DAY TOUR (5 HOURS). Itinerary: Departure from the hotel Villa Allende Unquillo Río Ceballos Salsipuedes Agua de Oro Ascochinga Tres Cascadas Return to the hotel. CALAMUCHITA VALLEY FULL DAY TOUR (10 HOURS). Itinerary: Departure from the hotel Car Factories Alta Gracia Jesuit Ranch Golf Club Anizacate Los Molinos Lake and Dam Villa General Belgrano Santa Rosa de Calamuchita Embalse Río Tercero: Dam and Nuclear Power Station Return to the hotel. LA CUMBRECITA FULL DAY TOUR (10 HOURS). Itinerary: Departure from the hotel Car Factories Alta Gracia Jesuit Ranch Anizacate Los Molinos Lake and Dam La Cumbrecita Free time for a walk Villa General Belgrano Return to the hotel. 24

25 JESUIT ROAD FULL DAY TOUR (11 HOURS). Itinerary: Departure from the hotel Airport Río Ceballos Salsipuedes El Manzano Agua de Oro La Granja Ascochinga Santa Catalina Jesuit Ranch Jesús María Ranch and National Jesuit Museum Colonia Caroya Caroya Jesuit House Return to the hotel. JESUIT ESTANCIAS CIRCUIT FOUR-DAY TOUR. Itinerary: Day 1: Pick up at the airport and transfer to Estancia La Paz Accommodation. Day 2: Estancia Santa Catalina Estancia Jesús María: National Jesuit Museum Estancia Caroya Transfer to Córdoba Accommodation. Day 03: Jesuit Block Estancia Alta Gracia Accommodation. Day 04: Transfer to the airport. This tour can turned into a 4-night tour visiting also Estancia La Candelaria as a full day tour. MINA CLAVERO FULL DAY TOUR (11 HOURS). Itinerary: Departure from the hotel Villa Carlos Paz Quebrada del Condorito Mina Clavero Nono Rocsen Museum (optional) Villa Cura Brochero Return to the hotel. Pampas and Sierras 25

26 Located at the heart of the most distinguished zone of Buenos Aires, La Recoleta, Caesar Park Buenos Aires arises as a symbol of luxury and warmth. Purposedly thought for guests who expect the attention, comfort and fine environment that only a five star hotel can grant. Grupo Américas de Hoteles de Argentina AMERICAS Pampas and Sierras Ample and luxurious rooms Meeting rooms Special ammenities at suites for honemooners Hotel de las Américas Américas Towers Hotel Caesar Park Buenos Aires One of The Leading Hotels of the World Posadas 1232 (C1011ABF) Capital Federal Buenos Aires Argentina Phone: (54-11) Direct Phone: (54-11) Direct Fax: (54-11) Reservations: (54-11) /7/8 Call Free: ventas@caesar.com.ar Web Page: Libertad 1020 Buenos Aires - Argentina Tel. (54 11) /3832 Fax: (54 11) americas@americas-bue.com.ar Libertad 1070 Buenos Aires - Argentina Tel. (54 11) Fax: (54 11) towers@americas-bue.com.ar 26

27 PAMPAS AND SIERRAS Buenos Aires Apart Hotels t Hotels Park Tower ***** 27 4 Address: Av. Leandro N. Alem 1193 (C1001AAG) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Alvear Palace ***** Address: Av.Alvear 1891 (C1129AAA) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Web site: Location: exceptional location in the heart of the city, a few steps away from the most important comercial area, government offices, stores and shows. Close to museums and historic areas. Only 30 km from Ezeiza International Airport. Accommodation: 181 deluxe rooms with an exquisite European decoration which offer spectacular views of the river, the square and the city. 164 rooms and 17 suites, including two with private terrace and a presidential suite occupying the whole top floor. Non smoking floors. All rooms are supplied with: exclusive bathroom design, two telephone lines with PC connection and voice mail, wake up call service with coffee and tea served in the room, 29 inch cable and satelital TV set, music stereo, minibar, cellular phones, alarm clock, smoke detectors, sprinklers, electric current 220/110 V, ironing of two garments on the day of arrival, Services and facilities: traditional buttler service, 24 hs concierge, valet parking, daily buffet breakfast, daily selection of local and international newspapers and transfer in / out services. Spa & Health Club completely equipped with gym, sauna, vapour bath, massages, indoor and outdoor swimming pool, two tennis courts with artificial light, putting green and pool snack. Restaurant: El Aljibe: gourmet international dinner. Cardinale: gourmet Italian dinner. Lobby Lounge: offers tea, cocktails and relaxing piano music. Crystal Garden: international food in an elegant atmosphere. Pool Snack: sandwiches, salads and juices are served in the swimming pool area. Meeting facilities: Room Theatre School Reception Banquet San Isidro Auditorio 230 San Telmo Libertador Golden Horn Retiro La Pampa Catalinas Río de la Plata Ombú (A&B) Ombú A Ombú B Poncho Martín Fierro (A&B) Martín Fierro A Martín Fierro B Gómez Lozada Executive Board 12 Polo 12 Parana 12 Ceibo 12 Aguila Atalaya Web site: Location: in the elegant district of La Recoleta, surrounded by the most exclusive shops of Buenos Aires. Close to the famous bars and restaurants as well as renowned cultural centers such as Palais de Glace, Bellas Artes Museum and Centro Cultural Recoleta. Accommodation: 210 rooms including: 85 palace rooms and 125 suites including: junior suites, deluxe suites, diplomatic suites, governor suites, presidential suites and royal suites. All the rooms are luxuriously decorated in Imperial and Louis XV style and egiptian cotton sheets from Frette are used in every bed. The guests have a Butler at their service. All rooms are decorated with fresh flowers and fruits. The amenities are Hermes from Paris. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom with shower, hair dryer, telephone with DDN and DDI, individual controlled air-conditioning and heating, cable TV with remote control, safe box, minibar, robe and slippers for each guest, 220/110 V. 50 Hz. The majority of the rooms offer a jacuzzi. Services and facilities: business center with PC, VCR and DVD, secretarial service,translation service. Facilities for disabled people. Health Center with heated indoor swimming pool, massage room, sauna, gym equipped with computerized machines. Indoor parking lot, medical assistance, laundry service and dry cleaning. Restaurants: L'Orangerie and Jardín de Invierno: located on the ground floor maintaining the elegant style, characteristic of the hotel. Surrounded by mirrors, large windows and decorated with plants. Breakfast, lunch and tea room with the most delicious pastry. Capacity: 100 people. Lobby Bar: ideal to enjoy a cocktail with live music in the most elegant bar in Buenos Aires. You will also be able to delight yourself with a large variety of drinks, exquisite fast food and a fine selection of cigars. Capacity: 50 people. La Bourgogne: the only Relais Gourmand Restaurant in Buenos Aires. It offers a warm and refined atmosphere, ideal to enjoy the exquisite French cuisine of Jean Paul Bondoux. Capacity: 80 people. La Cave: descending a stair from La Bourgogne, we find the old La Bourgogne cave which has been transformed into an intimate and informal restaurante where you can enjoy the most exquisite regional French food. Capacity: 40 people. La Taste de Vin: an exclusive place to taste the most exquisite wines and seasoned and selected cheese by our chef and sommelier. Meeting facilities: the elegant rooms offer a unique atmosphere for dinners, work meetings, conferences, etc. The professionals are in charge of the details. Room Theatre School Cocktail Banquet Roof Garden Regence / Empress /60 250/ /120 María Antonieta / Diplomatic 40/ /65 50 Versailles, Vendome and Pompadour Embassador Governor / Chancellor 70/ /80 70 Alvear Pampas and Sierras 27

28 26 Sheraton ***** Buenos Aires Hotel & Convention Center 10 Sofitel ***** Buenos Aires Address: Arroyo 841/849 (C1007AAB) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Pampas and Sierras Address: 1225/1275 San Martín (C1104AKC) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Web site: Location: profitably located in the hearth of the city, overlooking the River Plate. Built in: Remodelled in Accomodation: 742 rooms. Main building: 551 rooms and 17 suites. Excecutive floors: 158 rooms and 16 suites. All rooms are supplied with: telephone with DDN and DDI, air conditioning, individually controlled temperature, cable TV, alarm clock, minibar, answering machine, fax, smoke detectors, hair dryer. Iron, ironing board and cradles available. Facilities and services: non smoking rooms, 24 hs concierge, 24 hs room service, business center, translating service, cellular phones rental, medical assistance, laundry and dry cleaning, wake up service, transfers in/out, babysitter, commercial gallery, jewellery, gift shop, beauty salon, sprinkler system, electric current 220/110 V, parking lot, fitness center with indoor and outdoor swimming pools, totally equipped gym, humid and dry sauna, massage, relaxing room, 2 tennis courts and mini golf. Restaurant: Cardinale : the perfect place for breakfast, lunch and dinner, served in an elegant atmosphere. El Aljibe : gourmet restaurant. Argentine barbecue and national wines. Lobby Bar : offers breakfast, fast food and cocktails with live music. Pool Snack Bar : bar in the swimming pool area. Serves sandwiches, salads and natural juice. Meeting facilities: Sheraton Buenos Aires Hotel is next to Park Tower, having total access to its meeting facilities. 73 Intercontinental ***** Web site: Built in: Totally remodelled in Accommodation: 144 rooms, 68 superiors, 46 deluxe, 16 junior, 10 business, 2 executive suites and 1 apartment. All rooms are supplied with: large bathrooms with shower, bath tub, hair dryer and bath robes, 2 telephone lines with DDN and DDI, private telephone number and answering machine, individually controlled air conditioning, cable TV, safe box, programmed music system, minibar, internet access, , desk, smoke detectors and sprinklers. Facilities and services: Le Sud : unique and exclusive. The details of the design were exclusively thought to offer the most demanding gourmet the best ambiance. The gastronomic offer includes Mediterranean food with a strong influence of recipes and flavours from La Provence. Arroyo Café : with reminiscence of the early XX century and maintaining the traditional style of the cafés in Buenos Aires. La Bibliotheque : an important chimney place lies here offering the ideal opportunity to distend yourself while you may enjoy reading a book and its decoration, French and English style. Meeting facilities: Room Theatre Class Cocktail Banquet Saint-Exupery Mermoz Guillaumet Daurat Emperador ***** Address: Moreno 809 (C1091AAQ) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Web site: Address: Av. Del Libertador 420 (C1001ABR) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Web site: Location: in the district of Montserrat, historical area of the city. Built in: January, Accomodation: 315 rooms, 2 presidential suites and many luxurious rooms. All rooms are supplied with: telephone with DDN and DDI, two telephone lines, individually controlled temperature, air conditioning, cable TV, electronic safe box, minibar, large desk, internet acces, electronic lock, alarm system, smoke detector, sprinkler, king size bed, a large mirror and telephone in the bathroom, radio alarm clock, hair dryer, bathrobe, cellular phone, acoustic isolation. Facilities and services: 24 hs room service, laundry, travel agency and excursions, boutiques, indoor swimming pool, trainning center, sauna, vapour bath, jacuzzi, massage room, gym. Restaurant: Mediterraneo, Café de las Luces and Terraza del Virrey. Meeting facilities: Rooms Banquet Reception Auditorium School Boardroom Montserrat Soldi Quinquela Picasso / Dalí / Miró Mozart / Chopin / Verdi Borges Moliere Built in: Pre-opening in October. Accommodation: 271 rooms and suites, including 1 presidential suite. All rooms are supplied with: 2 telephone lines with DDI/DDN, individual heating, cable TV with optional V3 movies, safe box, internet connection, acoustic isolation, fire system and facilities for disabled people. Facilities and services: non smoking floors, parking lot with 24 hs valet service, medical emergency service, health club with swimming pool and gym, VIP Emperor Club, laundry service, 24 hs room service, business center including printers, fax, data projector, screens, slides projector, digital projector, microphones, flip chart, laser pointer, audiovisual equipment, ISDN lines, secretary service, internet connection. Restaurant: Maximus and Oliver's Bar. Meeting facilities: Rooms Auditorium School Reception Banquet P. del Sol (este) P. del Sol (oeste) Aranjuez Estoril Del Prado Granada / Córdoba De la Castellana

29 Marriott Plaza ***** 24 5 Address: Florida 1005 (C1005AAU) Buenos Aires Telephone / fax: /3008 Web site: Caesar Park ***** Buenos Aires Address: Posadas 1232 (C1011ABF) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Built in: Location: in an elegant district opposite Plaza San Martín, surrounded by the most elegant jewellery shops and famous shops on Florida Street. Accommodation: 325 rooms: 1 diplomatic suite, 1 plaza suite, 10 deluxe suites, 31 junior suites and 282 luxury rooms. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom with bathrobe and hair dryer, telephone with DDI/DDN, colour cable TV, safe box, minibar, desk with internet connection, video, cellular phone, iron, ironing board, Times News daily dellivery. Facilities and services: 3 elevators, fire detector system, jewellery shop and commercial gallery, library, 24 hs room service, outdoor swimming pool with solarium, fitness center, sauna, hydromassage, and outdoor heated swimming pool, aerobic gym classes, unisex beauty salon, business center, executive room. Restaurant: Plaza Bar : offers a refined atmosphere with wooden walls, the locals preferred place to get together to have a drink and a select variety of canapés. Capacity: 50 people. La Terrasse : offers a salad, tart and other delights buffet in a warm and relaxed atmosphere. Capacity: 80 people. La Brasserie : elegant room which offers breakfast and lunch. Capacity: 80 people. Plaza Grill : offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy an elegant meal and an excellent international cuisine. Capacity: 90 people. Meeting facilities: Room Cocktail O setting Auditorium School Parties 300/ / / /300 Colonial 100/300 60/80 150/250 90/150 Grand Hall 150/450 40/50 100/150 40/60 Golden 150/300 30/60 150/250 90/110 Park 40/80 25/35 45/80 20/40 Florida 80/150 35/46 60/100 40/40 Retiro 20/60 25/35 40/50 20/40 Gallery 30/50 25/35 40/60 20/40 San Martín 20/50 15/35 40/60 10/40 Web site: Location: estrategically located in La Recoleta, one of the most exclusive and elegant areas, a few metres away from Libertador, Alvear and 9 de Julio Avenue. Direct and fast access to the airports. Close to the financial and commercial center of the city. Accommodation: 170 rooms, 18 floors including 18 suites: 1 imperial suite, 1 presidential suite, 6 executive suites, 10 junior suites, 148 deluxe rooms; 7 non smoking floors, rooms for disable people. All rooms are supplied with: bathrooms with shower, bath tub and hair dryer, 2 multilineal telephones with DDN and DDI, individually controlled air conditioning and heating, cable colour TV, individual safe box, music, AM/FM radio, minibar, cellular phones, central light console table, temperature, housekeeping call, a do not disturb sign, Rj 11 jacks for the fax and modem, desk. Facilities and Services: 24 hs room service, babysitter, valet laundry and dry cleaner service, 24 hs valet parking, car rental, art gallery, wine shop, Davidoff. business center equipped with PC, notebooks, laser printers, photocopier and fax, fitness center with a gym with modern equipment, indoor heated swimming pool, jacuzzi, sauna, massage and relax room, solarium and a garden of 1600 mt 2. Restaurants: Restaurant Agraz: contemporary Argentine kitchen in charge of the Chef, Germán Martitegui. Capacity: 50 people. The Lounge: an ideal place to enjoy during the whole day and to taste an exquisite tea during the afternoon or the Piano Bar. Capacity: 40 people. Cheers Bar: English style bar. Open daily from 4:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. Capacity: 50 people. Meeting facilities: A surface of 950 mt 2 including its five rooms and foyer: Cabildo: 350 mt 2.Can be divided into three smaller rooms. Pilar and Retiro: 72 mt 2 each one. Each one can be divided into two. Montevideo and Libertad: 54 mt 2 each one. Offers windows and natural light. Grand Foyer: 300 mt 2.Reception area for events. It also offers rooms for working meetings for a maximum of 12 people. Pampas and Sierras 1 Loi Suites ***** Recoleta Address: Vicente López 1955 (C1228CC) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Hilton ***** Address: Av.Macacha Güemes 351 (C1106AKA) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Web site: Web site: Built in: Accommodation: 112 rooms divided into 3 categories: junior studio, executive junior and executive suite. All rooms are supplied with: telephone, central air conditioning with individually controlled temperature, cable TV, safe box, fax, data port, answering machine, internet access, bar, electronic lock system and acoustic isolation. Facilities and services: non smoking rooms, facilities for disabled people, garage, sauna, heated indoor swimming pool, gym, 24 hs emergency medical service, laundry and dry cleaning service. Restaurant: La Fuente : offers excellent service with it's international menu and an optional executive menu for lunch and dinner. You will be able to enjoy delicious snacks in the Winter Garden throughout the whole day. Capacity: 50 people. Meeting facilities: 3 rooms for events: Jacarandá, Ombú and Ceibo, divided by acoustic moveable panels to adapt them to the needs of each event. Capacity: 50 people each one. Built in: Location: in Puerto Madero, a few minutes from the business, restaurant and commercial area and the diverse touritsic attractions of the city; with easy access to the domestic and international airports. Accommodation: 418 rooms: deluxe, corner deluxe, executive, junior suites and executive suites. All rooms are supplied with: bathroom and dressing room, 2 telephone lines, cellular phone, air conditioning, cable TV, safe box, radio watch, minibar, direct internet connection, answering machine, data port, electronic locks, desk, smoke detectors, facilities for disabled people and large windows. Facilities and services: non smoking rooms, health club, swimming pool, babysitter, beauty salon, safe box, laundry and dry cleaning service, exchange bureau, 24 hs room service, business center with 10 different size rooms which offer secretarial service, fax, printer, internet, photocopiers and audio-visual rental equipment. Restaurant: El Faro : Capacity: 182 people. Atrio Bar. Lobby Bar. Meeting facilities: Pacific room (Exhibition Center): surface: 2000 m. It connects with the Atlantic room of 722 m. Buen Ayre room: surface: 719 m. 29

30 Sheraton ***** Libertador 42 6 Address: 690 Córdoba Avenue (C1054AAS) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Four Seasons ***** Address: Posadas 1086 (C1011ABB) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Web site: Pampas and Sierras Web site: Location: situated in the center of the city, near the financial and commercial area. Main shops and theatres like the famous Colon Theatre can also be found. 40 minutes away from the international airport Ezeiza. Built in: Remodelled in Accomodation: the 22 floors offer 150 deluxe rooms, 44 executive rooms, 4 junior suites and 2 presidential suites. All rooms are supplied with: parking, bathtub, dressing-room, telephone with DDN and DDI, air conditioning, cable TV, wake up clock, minibar, kitchenete, isolated system. The presidential suite includes hydromassage, finland bath, sauna. Facilities and services: 24 hs concierge, baby sitter, business center, laundry, safe box, wake up clock, non-smoking rooms, heated swimming pool, jacuzzi, gym. Reastaurants: La Pérgola offers international meals, menu a la carte and a full variety of wines. Elegant restaurant with private hall for 40 people available for special occasions. Maximilian Lobby Bar offers shows and excelent cockatils. Luxurious, large, with a classic decoration and full of surprises. Open 24 hs. Meeting facilities: Room Cocktail Auditorium School Banquet Grand Bourg De las Américas El Portal / Yapeyú / Chacabuco Granaderos Los Andes / San Lorenzo La Pérgola Claridge Hotel ***** Address: Tucumán 535 (C1049AAK) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Web site: Location: located at the exclusive district of La Recoleta, near the Patio Burlich mall, the most elegant commercial and cultural areas in the city and the financial and bank area. Accomodation: 138 rooms and 27 suites including 7 exclusive suites in the adjoining building La Mansion. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom, towells 100% cotton, hair dryer, dressing rooms, multi line telephone, cellular phones, individually controlled temperature, air conditioning, cable TV, safe box, radio, stereo, answering machine, data port, fax, internet, bar, smoke detectors, black-out curtain, newspaper. Facilities and services: 24 hs. security, non smoking rooms, safe box, 24 hs. business center with 3 meeting rooms, 24 hs. multilingual concierge, fax and computers available, secretarial and translating service, health club with cardiovascular machine, outdoor heated swimming pool, phisical condition test and personal trainnig, sauna, jacuzzi, spa including massages and beauty treatment, laundry and dry cleaning, baby sitter, valet parking. Restaurants: Galani : offers French meals in a relaxing atmosphere. Argetinian meals, fish and pastas is offered at night. Le Dome : elegant british style bar, with natural ligth from a crystal pyramid, domê. Meeting facilities: Room Reception Banquet Theatre School Grand Salon Petit Salon Drawing Room Boardroom Executive Room Roble Verde Estar Bar NH City Hotel ***** Address: Bolívar 160 (C1066AAD) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Web site: Location: centric, a few steps away from Florida St. Built in: 1946, remodelled in Accomodation: 155 superior rooms, 4 executive suites, 1 deluxe suite, 1 superior suite. Non-smoking floors. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom with amenities, bath robe and hair dryer, telephone with DDN and DDI, central air conditioning & heating, cable TV, minibar, internet connection, cellular phone, desk and electricity 220 /110 V. 50 Hz. Services and facilities: 24 hs concierge and room service, safe box, money exchange, business center with PC, printer, fax, photocopier, bilingüal secretary, health club with salad bar, outdoor heated swimming pool, gym with computerized machines, massage room, sauna, solarium, laundry and dry cleaning service. Restaurants: Claridge's Bar : distinguished food in an elegant English style room. Executive menus. Seasonal food. Gastronomic Festivals. Claridge's Restaurant : traditional English style bar, the most rewarded in the city with the warmest atmosphere. Meeting facilities: Room Dimensions School Auditorium Banquet Cocktail Grand Room 35,40 x 8,70 m Diplomat 26,80 x 9,00 m Tudor 46,80 x 7,50 m Windsor 9,80 x 7,00 m Oxford 8,65 x 8,80 m Built in: Remodelled in Location: in the heart of the city, close to Plaza de Mayo square. Accommodation: 29 single rooms, 40 twin rooms, 148 double rooms, 34 special rooms, 46 junior suites and 6 executive rooms. All rooms are supplied with: 2 telephone lines, hot & cold individual controlled air conditioning, cable TV, safe box, amenities and hair dryer. Facilities and services: gym, sauna, heated swimming pool, solarium and business center. Restaurant: international food restaurant and Lobby Bar. Meeting facilities: Room Banquet Cocktail School Theatre Ceibo / Sauce / Alerce / Ombú 10 NA 6 20 Cabildo / Madero / San Telmo NA 20 P. Mayor A P. Mayor B 90 NA P. Mayor C Plaza Mayor

31 Crowne Plaza ***** Panamericano 51 3 Address: Carlos Pellegrini 551 (C1009ABK) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Etoile Recoleta ***** Hotel Boutique Address: Pte. Roberto M. Ortiz 1835 (C1113ABA) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Web site: Location: in the hearth of the city, overlooking the 9 de Julio Avenue, a few metres away from the Obelisc and in front of the Colon Theatre. Near the active pedestrian street Florida and the beautiful Galerias Pacifico shopping center. Surrounded by theatres, cinemas, boutiques and restaurants. Direct and fast access to the airports. Accommodation: 386 guest rooms including 92 suites. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom with shower and bath tube, telephone DDN/DDI, air conditioning and heating, colour cable TV with remote control, safe box, mini-bar, AM/FM radio, alarm clock, mini-bar, programme music system, cellular phones, internet access, modem connection, voice mail and call transfer system, coffe and tea maker, smoke detectors. Facilities and services: business center, secretary service, computer service, offices for 6 people, health club which offers: gym with computerized machines, indoor & outdoor heated swimming pool, sauna, solarium, gym, spa, massages and hairdresser. Advanced fire detector system, 220/110 V. 50 Hz., non smoking floors, beauty salon, 24 hs room service, medical assistance, emergency exits, laundry and dry cleaning service and parking lot for 350 cars. Restaurant: Tomo I : excellent international cuisine. Serves lunch / dinner. La Luciérnaga : buffet and hot dishes á la carte. Beakfast / lunch / dinner. Kasuga : Japanese sushi food. Serves breakfast / lunch / dinner. Lobby Bar La Luciérnaga : excellent cocktails, drinks and snacks at any time. Meeting facilities: 14 functional meeting rooms with the latest technology available for all needs and uses such as seminars, exhibitions and banquets. They can accommodate from 10 to 1000 attendees. 4 comfortable business centers offer PC, printer, fax, and internet access. Largest room capacity: 900 people in Theatre setting. Smallest room capacity: 12 people. Web site: Location: in the heart of La Recoleta, opposite to the famous Cemetery of Recoleta, surrounded by magnificent parks. Easy access to the principal places of cultural, comercial and recreational interest of the city. Close to the most important convention centers. Accomodation: 96 suites: 16 diplomatic suites with double jacuzzi, Reception area with American Bar and Living Room. 48 executive suites, very comfortable with two rooms. 32 standard rooms. All suites are supplied with: jacuzzi, telephone with DDN and DDI, cable TV, minibar, internet connection and cellular phone. Non-smoking floors. Security 24 hs. Facilities and services: luggage store-room, laundry service, valet parking service, indoor parking lot, transfer in and out from the airport, 24 hs. Concierge and fax service, Business Center, Health Club with gym equipped with machines, indoor and outdoor heated swimming pool, sauna and turkish bath, massage and relax room, solarium and snack with the best view of the city of Buenos Aires. Restaurant: Pigalle Restaurant: opens its doors at 7 am. You will be able to enjoy American Breakfasts, lunches and dinners. Room service. Meeting facilities: 3 rooms. Capacity: 350 peopple. The last generation technical equipment and an efficient integrated planification guarantee the success of your events. Room Cocktail Social U Paris Olympic Versailles Diplomatic Suite 12 Pampas and Sierras 55 Americas **** Towers deluxe Address: Libertad 1070 (C1012AAV) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: De las Américas **** Adddress: Libertad 1020 (C1012AAV) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Web site: Web site: Built in: Accommodation: 100 rooms: 4 deluxe suites, 4 apartments and 92 standard rooms. All rooms are equipped with: telephone with two direct lines and dataport, individually controlled air-conditioning and heating with variable volume, 25 inches colour TV, individual safe box, voice mail, hidromassage, electric coffee machine, hair dryer. All rooms with double bed are king size. Facilities and services: rooms for disabled and non-smokers, business center, fitness center with heated swimming pool, sauna, solarium, very well equipped gym, valet parking, laundry and dry cleaning service, 24 hs. room service. Restaurant: Miro Bar: offers fast food service during the whole day within a warm, informal and relaxed atmosphere. Capacity: 30 people approximately. Dali Restaurant: offers local and international high level cuisine. Capacity: 70 people. Meeting facilities: rooms for multiple use with natural light. Capacity: 10 to 200 people. Dali room: 98 m 2.Capacity: 80 people in Auditorium setting. Picasso room: 195 m. Capacity: 800 people in Auditorium setting. Built in: Remodelled in: 1990 (partially), 1994 (new carpeting, painting, change of furniture). Accomodation: 150 rooms including 12 junior suites and 2 penthouses with private terrace. All rooms are equipped with: telephone with two direct lines and dataport, air conditioning and central heating, 21 inch colour TV, individual safe box, voice mail, hidromassage, electric coffee machine with coffee kids and hair dryer. Facilities and services: non smoking rooms, business center, 24 hs room service, valet parking, laundry and dry cleaning service. Restaurant: Lobby Bar & La Cascada Restaurant: national and international food. Meeting facilities: Multiple Use rooms: Directorio Room: 33 m 2.Capacity: 20 people in Auditorium setting. Libertad Room: 176 m 2.Capacity: 200 people in Auditorium setting. 31

32 Argenta Towers ***** Hotel & Suites Address: Juncal 868 (C1062ABF) Buenos Aires Tel: Fax: Holiday Inn ***** Select Address: Av. Corrientes 3190 (C1193AAQ) Buenos Aires, Argentina Telephone: Fax: Pampas and Sierras Web site: Location: a few metres away from Av. Santa Fe, next to the Basílica Nuestra Señora del Socorro and close to San Martín Square. Built in: Remodelled in Accomodation: 97 rooms: 75 studio, 19 executive, 1 special executive, 1 argenta y 1 tower. All rooms are supplied with: carpets, private bathroom, hair dryer, 2 telephone lines with DDN and DDI, individually controlled air conditioning, colour cable TV, safe box, minibar, internet access, data port, voice mail, electronic lock, desk, kitchenette, frigobar, alarm clock. Argenta room: bedroom with jacuzzi, dining-room and kitchen. Tower room: bathroom with jacuzzi, living-room and dining-room, kitchen, dressing room, bedroom and terrace balcony. Excecutive room: bathroom with hydromassage, living-room and dining-room, bedroom and kitchen. Special excecutive room: bathroom with hydromassage, living-room and diningroom, bedroom, kitchen and balcony. Facilities and services: laundry and dry cleaning service, VCR rental, 24 hs room service, work office available, outdoor heated swimming pool, sauna, gym, massage service, wake up call, medical service, internet access, photocopier and fax service, computer and cellular phone rental, parking lot. Restaurantes: Vivaldi: Offers an ample menu. Meeting facilities: Room Banquets Cocktails Conferences/ Auditorium Chopin Mozart Aspen Towers **** Web site: Built in: inaugurated March, 23rd, Accommodation: 126 double and single rooms: 68 deluxe rooms, 22 superior rooms, 18 executive rooms, 12 balcony rooms, 6 junior suites. All rooms are supplied with: individually controlled air conditioning, TV, radio, minibar, hairdryer, internet connection, 24 hs free coffee and tea room service, electronic safe box, ironing board, iron and hidromassage (Superior, Executive, Balcony & Junior Suite). Facilities and services: business center with free internet access, heated swimming pool, fitness center, miniboutique with tango articles, 24 hs room service, laundry, free access to the Museo de los Niños for children in the Abasto Shopping. Restaurant: Volver Restaurant: Capacity: 64 people. Volver Bar: Capacity: 30 people. Meeting facilities: Room Mariano Mores E.S. Discépolo Homero Manzi Piazzolla-Castillo Osvaldo Pugliese 75 Capacity 500 people in Auditorium setting 120 people in Auditorium setting 40 people in Auditorium setting 30 people in Auditorium setting 10 people in Directory room Cambremon **** Address: Suipacha 30 (C1008AAB) Buenos Aires Telephone: / 4554 Web site: Address: Paraguay 857 (C1057AAK) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Web site: Built in: Remodelling different areas constantly. Location: in the city center, close to the pedestrian Florida Street, Puerto Madero, the famous Colon Theatre and the distinguished La Recoleta district. Only 30 minutes from Ezeiza International Airport. Accommodation: 75 rooms including standard, executive and deluxe rooms. All rooms are supplied with: hidromassage or jacuzzi, individual air conditioning, 25 TV, individual safe box, PC connection, fax and internet. Facilities and services: swimming pool, gym, sauna, business center, room service, 24 hs security and medical emergency, non smoking rooms. Restaurant: Orleáns. Capacity: 50 people. Bar Café Le Tour. Meeting facilities: Rooms Cocktail Auditorium School Banquets Towers Boardroom Built in: Remodelled in Location: a few steps from the city porteña, in the historic and traditional heart of Buenos Aires. Accommodation: 70 large standard rooms, executive suites and Niza suites. All rooms are supplied with: computerized telephone with programmed wake up call and DDN/DDI, individually controlled air conditioning and heating, 20 inch colour cable TV, safe box, 6 programmed music channels, frigobar, smoke detectors and hair dryer. Facilities and services: non smoking rooms, fire alarm system, 3 offices for executives with optional bilingual secretary service, PC, printer, fax, photocopier, internet connection, computerized elevators, 24 hs room service, garages with direct access to the hotel, gym with sauna and hidromassage, laundry and dry cleaning service, permanent medical assistance, high technology electrogen system, 24 hs security system. Restaurant: 1 restaurant with an exquisite executive buffet for lunch or dinner. Meeting facilities: Room Auditorium Cocktail Banquet U Versailles Le Barón Los Jazmines Las Rosas 10 32

33 Park Central **** Kempinski 63 7 Address: Diagonal Pte. R. Sáenz Peña 1174 (C1035AAT) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Park Plaza **** Kempinski Address: Av.Pueyrredón 1940 (C1119ACP) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Web site: Location: in the heart of the city, a few meters from the Obelisc, Colón Theatre and the theatre area. Accommodation: 70 elegant rooms, 2 of which are Junior Suites. All rooms are supplied with: hidromassage, hair dryer, telephone with DDI/DDN, hot/cold individual air conditioning, colour cable TV, safe box, frigobar, internet connection and cellular phone. Some rooms offer a balcony. Facilities and services: 24 hs room service, laundry and dry cleaning service, free access to a gym and outdoor swimming pool (during the summer) to be determined, business center. Non smoking rooms. Restaurant: Tango : traditional style restaurant. Offers buffet lunch. A live pianist invites you to enjoy the Happy Hour during the afternoon. Dinner with live musical shows. Meeting facilities: Glamour room 100 people. Charme room 80 people. Web site: Location: a few meters from the famous Alvear Avenue and main shoppings, surrounded by boutiques, high international cuisine restaurants, residences and embassies. Accommodation: 54 rooms: 2 suites and 4 penthouse. All rooms are supplied with: telephone with DDI/DDN, indivicual hot/cold air conditioning, colour cable TV, safe box, frigobar, internet connection, hair dryer and cellular phone. Some of the rooms offer balcony. Facilities and services: 24 hs room service, laundry and dry cleaning service, free access to gym and outdoor swimming pool (during the summer) and business center. Restaurant: Souvenir : where you may taste a varied wine menu, as well as various delights at tea time. 57 Park Chateau **** Kempinski 90 Park Elegance **** Kempinski Address: Talcahuano 1253 (C1014ADA) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Address: Av.Pueyrredón 1940 (C1119ACP) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Pampas and Sierras Web site: Location: in the area of La Recoleta, close to the big commercial stores. Accommodation: 63 elegant rooms: Suites and Penthouse. All rooms are supplied with: hidromassage, hair dryer, telephone with DDI/DDN, hot/cold individual air conditioning, colour cable TV, safe box, frigobar, internet connection, and cellular phone. Facilities and services: 24 hs room service, laundry and dry cleaning service, free access to a gym and outdoor swimming pool to be determined (during the summer). Non smoking rooms. Restaurant: Leloir : the perfect place to start enjoying the local night, with a happy hour. Meeting facilities: Versailles room 180 people. Saint Germain room 40 people. Web site: Location: in the elegant Recoleta district, surrounded by different parks. This hotel combines the elegance of La Recoleta district with a relaxing atmosphere offered by the surrounding parks. Accommodation: 43 rooms. All rooms are supplied with: telephone with DDI/DDN, indivicual hot/cold air conditioning, colour cable TV, safe box, frigobar, internet connection, hair dryer and cellular phone. Some of the rooms offer balcony. Facilities and services: 24 hs room service, laundry and dry cleaning service, free access to gym and outdoor swimming pool (during the summer) to be determined. Restaurant: Papillón : offers a high international cuisine menu in a luxurious atmosphere. Meeting facilities: La Foret room 60 people. 58 Bel Air **** Address: Arenales 1462 (C1061AAO) Buenos Aires Telephone: / Fax: Web site: Location: located in Barrio Norte, an elagant residential area of Buenos Aires. The best location for business, shopping or just enjoy Buenos Aires. Accomodation: 77 rooms, 18 of them are Suites. All rooms are supplied with: individually controlled air conditioning and heating, electronic safe box, minibar, internet access, bath robe (Suites), hair dryer and electronic lock. Servicios y facilidades: laundry and dry cleaning service, concierge, luggage room, cellular telephone rental, business center equipped with PC, printers, faxes, photocopier, audio-visual equipment, high tecnology equipment, gym, smoking and non smoking floors. Restaurant: Restaurant Bisabis, Wine Bar, Café. Meeting facilities: Room Banquet Cocktail Auditorium School U Shape Imperial Vicente López Arenales Gran Vicente López Petit Vicente López

34 Meliá Buenos Aires Boutique Hotel **** Address: Reconquista 945 (C1003ABS) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Amerian **** Address: Reconquista 699 (C1003ABU) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Web site: Web site: Location: Located in the modern Catalinas neighbourhood, a few meters from the famous Florida St. and the elegant San Martin Square. Built in: 1999 Accommodation: 125 rooms: corner, standard, junior suite, executive suite and rooms for disabled people. All rooms are supplied with: 2 telephone lines, hot & cold air conditioning, 27 inch TV, safe box, frigobar, desk, voice mail, cellular phone and facilities for disabled people. Facilities and services: smoke detectors & sprinklers, business center & fitness center. Restaurant: Azorin Restaurant: Capacity: 88 people. Gongora Lobby Bar. Meeting facilities: Rooms Capacity Tirso de Molina 180 Alejandro Casona 120 Del Valle Inclan 10 Location: only 2 blocks from Florida Street and Galerías Pacífico, in the bank area and very close to Puerto Madero. A few blocks from Plaza San Martín, the majestic Colón Theatre, excellent restaurants and shows. Accommodation: 140 rooms, 13 suites with terrace. All rooms are supplied with: 2 telephone lines, last generation adjustable temperature with electronic microfilter and ionic flow, satellite colour TV, electronic safe box, radio alarm clock, minibar, internet connetion, acoustic isolation and facilities for disabled people. Facilities and services: intelligent building, private car access, high speed elevators, non smoking floors, services for disabled people, gym, sauna, laundry service and valet parking. Restaurant: 1 breakfast room, exclusive for passengers and 1 lobby bar decorated with classic English style Pub. Meeting facilities: multiple use rooms. Capacity: 40 to 700 people. Pampas and Sierras 23 Howard Johnson **** Plaza Florida Street Address: Florida 944 (C1005AAU) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Dolmen **** Address: Suipacha 1079 (C1008AAU) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Web site: Web site: Location: a few metres away from San Martin Park, on the pedetrian Florida Street. Built in: Remodelled in 2002 Accomodation: 77 rooms. All rooms have the same category. They are classified by the bed size (king size or double double). One room for disabled people. Connecting rooms. All rooms are supplied with: telephone with DDN and DDI, individually controlled temperature air conditioning, cable TV, safe box, minibar, internet free acces, voice mail, radio AM-FM, two telephones per room, wake up clock, cellular telephone, coffe machine, free coffe kit, iron, ironing board, hair dry, desk, chair, sofa, night light, smoke detectors, sprinklers. Facilities and services: free acces to Le Park gym, 24 hs room service, bell boy service, laundry and dry cleaning, gift shop with regional articles. Restaurant: Florida Street Café. Nice restaurant with glazed dome. Florida Street Lobby Bar. Meeting facilities: Salon Auditorio Escuela Banquete Cocktail A B / C / D ABC Location: strategically located in the heart of the financial area, a few metres away from Av. Santa Fe. Close to the commercial and the government area, Plaza San Martín and Galerías Pacífico; surrounded by the most exclusive stores in Florida St., museums, theatres, art galleries and the reconstructed area of Puerto Madero. Accommodation: 147 elegant rooms, including 30 equipped suites supplied with: telephone with DDI, individually controlled air conditioning, cable TV with 65 channels, hair dryer, minibar, PC connection and fax, electronic safe box with code and electronic key, double glass windows for acoustic isolation and smoke detectors. There are also executive suites supplied with fax, jacuzzi, hidromassage and kitchenette, basket with fruits and flower arrangement Facilities and services: lobby, bar and restaurant, laundry and dry cleaning, 24 hs room service, bilingüal staff, daily newspaper delivery, non-smoking floors, show and touristic reservations, rooms and facilities for disabled people, babysitter on request, car rental service, medical emergency, cellular phone, express check-in and check-out, central air conditioning system, emergency exits pressurized with antipanic exits, TV security system, health club with: indoor swimming pool, solarium, sauna, jacuzzi and gym, business center and parking lot. Meeting facilities: Three large rooms ideal for conferences, workshops, work meetings and seminars; completely equipped. Capacity: 20 to 150 people. 34

35 NH Latino **** Address: Suipacha 309 (C1088AAG) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Web site: NH Florida **** Address: San Martín 839 (C1004AAQ) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Web site: Built in: December, Location: in the economic and financial center of the city. A few meters from Florida St. And the most prestigious commercial centers. Accommodation: 101 rooms including 2 suites. All rooms are supplied with: direct telephone, air conditioning, colour TV, safe box, minibar, amenities, hair dryer, buffet breakfast, early breakfast. Facilities and services: room service, restaurant, cafeteria-bar, laundry service, parking lot, wardrobe service, gym and sauna. Meeting facilities: Rooms Capacity in Auditorium setting Latino Room 50 people Built in: Remodelled in Location: A few meters from Florida St. and the most prestigious commercial centers. Accommodation: 128 standard rooms and 20 Suites. All rooms are supplied with: 2 telephone lines, individual air conditioning, cable TV (2 in Suites), safe box, minibar, modem, free bathroom kit and hair dryer. Facilities and services: 24 hs room service, early breakfast, medical service, laundry service, parking lot, car rental, wardrobe service. Restaurant: 1 restaurant specialized in Spanish and Mediterranean food. Meeting facilities: meeting room for 10 people in Boardroom setting. 40 NH Jousten **** Collection Address: Av.Corrientes 240 (C1043AAP) Buenos Aires Telephone: /55 89 Golden Tulip **** Savoy Hotel Address: Callao 181 (C1022AAB) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Pampas and Sierras Web site: Built in: This emblematic building has a great artistic and historic interest. Remodelled in Location: in the corner of 25 de Mayo and Corrientes Avenue, in the center of Buenos Aires city, close to the Stock Exchange and Puerto Madero. Accommodation: 80 standard rooms, 2 junior suites, 2 suites with terrace and 1 presidential suite. All rooms are equipped with: air conditioning or heating, two telephone lines, colour cable TV, free internet access, digital safe box, minibar, amenities, hair dryer and cellular phone. Facilities and services: medical service, business center with free internet access, room service, valet parking, wardrobe service, laundry & dry cleaning, shoe polishing, early breakfast, free newspapers. Restaurant: Aralar Restaurant: an exquisite menu offers tipical Navarra and Spanish food suggestions accompanied by an interesting wine menu to accompany these delicious proposals. Capacity: 52 people. Lobby-Bar: the ideal place to taste cocktails or the preffered drink accompanied by original tapas within a comfortable atmosphere. Web site: Location: in the center of the city, a few metres away from Plaza de los Dos Congresos. Built in: the hotel was inaugurated on may 25 th in In 1999 rooms, hall, llobby and restaurant were all remodelled. Accomodation: 174 rooms: 155 superior rooms, 7 apartaments and 11 suites. All rooms are supplied with: carpeting, private bathroom, telephone with DDN and DDI, air conditioning and heating, cable TV, programmed music system, radio, minibar, PC connection, acoustic isolation. Facilities and services: business center, fax and PC, secretarial and translator service, safe box, lifts, medical assistance, baby sitter, emergency exit, 24 hs room service, laundry and dry cleaning, transfer in /out. Restaurant: Madrigales. Capacity: 80 people Meeting facilities: Room Auditorium School Ambassador Apolo Azul Imperio Oval Oval Oval Oval

36 Bisonte Palace **** Adress: Marcelo T. de Alvear 910 (C1058AAN) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Web site: Presidente **** Address: Cerrito 850 (C1010AAR) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Web site: Location: in Buenos Aires downtown, a few meters away from 9 de Julio Avenue and just a few blocks from Florida pedestrian Street. Close to the cultural centers, shopping centers ad the most important restaurants in the city. Comodidades: 62 standard rooms carefully decorated and caracterized by their size and equipment. All rooms are supplied with: hair dryer, thelephones with DDI and DDN, central air conditioning and heating, cable TV, music, frigobar, 24hs free internet access, magnetic lock Facilities and services: business center totally equipped with P.C., printers, free internet access, fax and photocopier service. Laundry and dry cleaner service. Free safe box and last generation electrogen system. Restaurants: La Plaza bar. Meeting facilities: Alvear Room. Capacity 60 people in auditorium setting and 30 people in U setting. 50 Colón **** Location: in the heart of the city of Buenos Aires, on 9 de Julio Avenue, with easy access to the airports and close to restaurants, bars and a few steps from Colon Theatre. Accommodation: 181 rooms, 35 comfortable apartments and 28 suites. All rooms are supplied with: carpet, private bathroom with hair dryer, telephone with DDI/DDN, individually controlled air conditioning, central heating, cable TV, safe box, programmed music system, fridge and PC connection. Facilities and services: business center, fax, computers and cellular phones available on request, medical assistance, day-care, safe box, beauty salon, exercise center with computerized machines, sauna, Finnish bath, 24 hs room service, laundry service, non smoking floors, emergency exits and parking lot. Restaurant: Lobby Bar. Capacity: 60 people. 1 restaurant on the underground floor. Capacity: 100 people. Meeting facilities: Rooms Banquets Cocktail Theatre Cousnellor Ambassador Governor / Edecán Pampas and Sierras Address: Carlos Pellegrini 507 (C1009ABK) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Web site: 59 Wilton Palace **** Address: Av.Callao 1162/64 (C1023AAR) Buenos Aires Telephone / fax: Web site: Location: opposite the Obelisc and 9 de Julio Avenue, a few meters from Colon Theatre and surrounded by the most important cultural, commercial and financial centers of the city. Accommodation: 173 rooms: singles, doubles, double obelisc, junior suites and suites. All rooms are supplied with: telephone with DDI/DDN, air conditioning, colour cable satellite TV, frigobar, mailbox, internet access, coded card locks, amenities, hair dryer, radio alarm clock, thermoacoustic isolated windows. Facilities and services: laundry and dry cleaning service, medical service, safe box at reception. Meeting facilities: Rooms Banquets Cocktail Conference/Auditorium América Mirador /150 Santa María La Niña Don Juan La Pinta Built in: Remodelled in Location: strategically located for business men, tourists and special event participants in the heart of the city, with easy access to both domestic and international airports as well as to any sport, cultural, tourist, commercial and financial center. Very close to La Recoleta, place of exclusive restaurants, cafeterias, cinemas, theatres, art galleries and the remodelled Puerto Madero area. Accommodation: 120 comfortable and elegant rooms, including executive and junior suites. All rooms are supplied with: telephone with data port, wake up call service, DDN and DDI, central heating and air conditioning, cable TV, voice mail programmed music system, frigobar in suites, hair dryer, complimentary toiletries and magnetic locks, acoustic isolating double glass, computerized smoke detectors. Facilities and services: 24 hs room service, smoking and non-smoking rooms, 24 hs medical emergency service, laundry and dry cleaning service, 24 hs concierge service, show reservation, tour reservations, closed TV circuit, remise service, transfer in / out (previous reservation), parking lot, safe box, babysitting service. There is also a business center, a specially designed place for businessmen equipped with: 24 hs business center access, personal computer, highspeed internet access, printers, fax and copy machine. There is also a fitness center with gym, sauna and solarium. Restaurant: the dining room is used as breakfast place and Snack Bar where American Breakfast is served. Meeting facilities: Senior Room: Measures: 8 m x 8 m. Capacity: 40 people 36

37 Holiday Inn Express Puerto Madero **** Address: Av. L.N. Alem 770 (C1001AAP) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Elevage **** Address: Maipú 960 (C1006ACN) Buenos Aires Telephone: Web site: Web site: Built in: 1999 Location: exclusive area of restaurants, offices, Puerto Madero and Galerías Pacífico Mall. A few metres away from the city center. Direct routes connect to the main areas, highways and avenues of the city. Direct access from Ezeiza International Airport and J. Newbery National Airport. Accommodation: 114 rooms and 12 suites within 14 floors. All rooms are supplied with: carpeting, 2 or 3 telephone lines, individual air conditioning and heating, 29 inch TV, desk, safe box with electronic lock, coffee machine, ironing board and vapour iron, sprinklers and smoke detectors, curtains, coverings, furniture and fire retardant doors. Facilities and services: smoke detectors and sprinklers in rooms and common areas, magnetic cards to access rooms, curtains, carpeting, bedcovers and fire retardant doors, laundry service, free local calls, fax, 24 hs tea and coffee, sauna, buffet breakfast, gym, business center with direct internet access. Restaurant: agreement with restaurants in Puerto Madero. Meeting facilities: equipped with TV, video, projector, screen, etc. Rooms Auditorium Room A 40 Room B Reconquista **** Plaza Address: Reconquista 602 (C1003ABN) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Built in: 1978, completely remodelled and reopened in Accommodation: 103 rooms and 13 suites distributed in 10 floors including executive rooms, junior suites, executive suites and 1 presidential suite. All rooms are supplied with: bath tub, hair dryer, telephones with voice mail, digital safe box, radio watch, internet access, magnetic keys, twin rooms with double size beds, double rooms with queen size beds. Facilities and services: business center, cellular phone rental, outdoor swimming pool, solarium, gym, cafeteria, restaurant, exclusive parking space, microcinema for a maximum of 35 people, video conferences equipment and Cigar Bar. Restaurant: Viollette: Capacity: 80 people. Meeting facilities: 5 multipurpose rooms. Capacity: 150 people in Auditorium setting. 66 Bristol **** Address: Cerrito 286 (C1010AAF) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Web site: Location: a few meters away from the Obelisc, on the wide 9 de Julio Avenue. Accommodation: 114 double rooms and 10 junior suites. All rooms are supplied with: carpet, private bathroom, telephone with DDN/DDI, air conditioning and heating, cable TV, mini-bar, PC and modem connection. Facilities and services: safe box, lifts, medical assistance, business center with fax and PC services, cellular telephones available on request, 24 hs room service, non smoking floors. Laundry and dry cleaning service. Restaurant: Snack Bar. Meeting facilities: 1 room for 30 people. Pampas and Sierras Web site: Built in: Location: in the financial and commercial district of the city, a few steps from the elegant Galerías Pacífico Shopping Center and a few blocks from the remodelled and modern area of Puerto Madero. Accommodation: 60 rooms. All rooms are supplied with: telephone with DDI/DDN, individual air conditioning and heating, colour cable TV, individual safe box, frigobar, desk for PC or Laptop use, internet access, acoustic isolation, hair dryer, coffee machine with coffee (daily courtesy), smoking and non smoking rooms. Facilities and services: American Breakfast, gym, sauna, solarium, room service,coffee shop, business center, laundry and dry cleaning service, 24 hs emergency service. Restaurant: El Recoleto : offers a large variety of menus which include salads, fish, our world wide known Argentine meat, home made pasta and the most incredible deserts. You may also enjoy a slice of cake, a capuccino or a drink at any time. Meeting facilities: Rooms Banquets Cocktail Theatre La Recova El Remanso Lobby of the Arts Howard Johnson Inn Classic Hotel **** Address: Bartolomé Mitre 2241 (C1039AAI) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Web site: Location: a few metres away from the Congress Palace with easy acces from any place in Buenos Aires. Accomodation: 40 rooms. All rooms are supplied with: telephone with DDN and DDI, individually controlled temperatureair conditioning, heating, cable TV, programmed digital safe box, king size beds. Facilities and services: 24 hs room service, laundry and dry cleaning, gym. Restaurant: Forum Bar. Offers menu a la carte and executive menu. Meeting facilities: Salon Parlamento 70 banquet 70 Auditorium. 37

38 Gran Hotel Buenos Aires **** Address: Marcelo T. de Alvear 767 (C1058AAI) Buenos Aires Telephone/fax: Tritone **** Address: Maipú 657 (C1006ACG) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Web site: Location: in the center of the city. Accomodation: 87 rooms: single, double, and triple and 5 suites : 1 junior suite, 1 senior suite, 2 special suites and 1 deluxe suite. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom with hair dryer, telephone with DDN/DDI, remote control air conditioning, fan, cable TV, minibar, modem connection, answering machine, wake up call service, 220 volts energy, sommier bed and large chest of drawers. Facilities and services: laundry, dry cleaning, near parking, 24 hs room service, safe box, business center with private entrance, internet/pc access, 20 TV, VCR, projection screen with tripode and microphone. Restaurant: Petit and a cafeteria open 24 hs. Meeting facilities: Cocktails Auditorio Conferences Yellow Room /50 Green Room /20 Location: in the financial and administrative heart of Buenos Aires, near Florida and Lavalle Streets, Corrientes and 9 de Julio Avenue and Puerto Madero. Accommodation: 50 comfortable modern rooms, 4 executive suites with king size bed, 2 comfortable apartments. All rooms are supplied with: telephone with DDI/DDN, individually controlled air conditioning and heating, 65 channel cable TV with remote control, individual safe box, programmed music system, minibar, electronic lock, double window for acoustic isolation, smoke detectors Services and facilities: laundry and dry cleaning service, welcome drink, 24 hs room service, fitness center: gym, sauna, massage and relax room, business center equipped with PC, printer, fax, photocopier, internet access. Restaurant: La Cascada: exquisite variety of dishes and pleasant environment where you will enjoy a gratifying american breakfast, lunch or dinner. Meeting facilities: Poseidón room, offers different alternatives for social or commercial events, breakfast, lunch, business meetings, seminars and banquets, capacity 40 people. Pampas and Sierras 49 Howard Johnson Da Vinci **** Address: Tucumán 857 (C1049AAQ) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Lancaster **** Address: Av. Córdoba 405 (C1054AAD) Buenos Aires Telephone: /6 Fax: Web site: Web site: Location: a few metres away from 9 de Julio Avenue, the main avenue of the city, in a strategic point of Buenos aires, near the most important commercial centers and tourist circuits. Built in: inaugurated in Accomodation: 48 junior suites. All rooms are supplied with: carpeting, 2 telephone lines, individually controlled temperature air conditioning, cable TV, minibar, PC connection, acoustic isolation, Facilities and services: parking, solarium, swimming pool, humid and dry sauna, gym, laundry and dry cleaning, hair dresser, manicure, podiatry and massage sevice, babysitter. Restaurant: Da Vinci. Offers excecutive menu a la carte, brakfast and happy hour. Meeting facilities: Leonardo room, fully carpeted, naturally ligthened, contains TV and VCR. Capacity: 40 people. Built in: 1947 approx. Location: in the heart of the city, in a totally bank area, a few meters from the pedestrian Florida Street and the historic Plaza San Martín. Accommodation: 86 rooms: 14 king size doubles, 4 queen size doubles, 22 doubles, 24 twin doubles, 6 triples, 5 junior suites, 11 senior suites. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom with bath tub and hair dryer, telephone with DDI/DDN, colour cable TV, digital safe box, frigobar, electronic lock, acoustic isolated windows and wide wardrobe. Facilities and services: 24 hs room service, security service, laundry and dry cleaning service, internet service, fax, mail, free luggage storage, gym, spa, business center. Restaurant: Catalinas : Mediterranean menu. The White Rose Pub. Meeting facilities: Coess 24people, Catalina 40 people, Catalinas 150 people. 91 Microtel Inn & Suites Aeroparque **** Address: Av.Rafael Obligado (C1426COA) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Web site: Built in: Accommodation: 6 suites, 20 standard twin doubles and 49 standard singles. All rooms are supplied with: telephone with DDI and DDN, individual central air conditioning, colour cable TV, electronic safe box and internet. The entire hotel has acoustic isolation (double window, double glass and wall with air chamber). Facilities and services: drink, ice and cigarette machines, outdoor parking lot, 24 hs free internet, laundry and dry cleaning service. Restaurant: snack bar: fast food, daily lunch and dinner menus. Capacity: 30 people. Meeting facilities: one meeting room with natural light overlooking the golf course. Capacity: 45 people in Auditorium setting. 38

39 Principado **** Address: Paraguay 481 (C1057AAC) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Web site: Grand Boulevard **** Hotel Superior Address: Bernardo de Irigoyen 432 (C1072AAJ) Buenos Aires Telephone / fax: Built in: Public areas and rooms have been remodelled during the past three years. Location: in a privileged city area, downtown, a few meters from the pedestrian Florida Street, Galerías Pacífico, Plaza San Martín, commercial centers, cinemas and the new Puerto Madero area where the best restaurants are situated. Accommodation: 88 standard rooms and 3 suites. All rooms are supplied with: carpet, private bathroom, hair dryer, telephone with DDI/DDN, central air conditioning and heating, cable TV, safe box, programmed music system, radio, minibar and internet connection. Facilities and services: parking lot, elevators, medical assistance, fax service, computer system, 24 hs room service, laundry and dry cleaning service, business center, garage, valet parking. Restaurant: 1 restaurant with internacional cuisine. Capacity: 20 people. Meeting facilities: 1 meeting room for 15 people. 22 Crillon **** Address: Av.Santa Fe 796 (C1059ABO) Buenos Aires, Argentina Telephone: Fax: Web site: Web site: ww.grandboulevardhotel.com Built in: August, Accommodation: 80 Bidermaier style standard rooms (45 singles / doubles, 15 twins, 20 connecting or business suites) and 5 English style executive deluxe suites (with dresser, living room and hidromassage). All rooms are supplied with: independent hot-cold equipments, cable TV, digital safe box, minibar, 24 hs internet, magnetic keys, smoke detectors and windows with double acustic isolation. Facilities and services: health club with sauna, gym, Scottish and Finnish shower, 24 hs business center totally equipped with free internet connection. Restaurant: Petit Rue Restaurant: with its own Chef and exclusive Mediterranean food. It's the perfect place to enjoy a drink, lunch or dinner with friends. Capacity: 75 people. Meeting facilities: Grand Boulevard Room: ideal for seminars, workshops, product presentations, cocktails or social events. Offers exclusive access and a splendid view of 9 de Julio Avenue and the River Plate. It's supplied with: last generation audio and sound equipment (DVD, data projector, screen, TV, video, microphones, etc) and the possibility to access gastronomic services like exquisite breakfasts, different coffee break options and exclusive dinners. Capacity: 120 people. 47 Rochester **** Address: Esmeralda 542 (C1007ABD) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Web site: Pampas and Sierras Built in: the 50's. This is one of hotels in Buenos Aires that still maintains the architectonic spirit of it's time. Recently remodelled. Location: distinguished and strategical, opposite to Plaza San Martín, a few metres away from Florida St. and less than 5 minutes away from La Recoleta, Puerto Madero, Patio Bullrich and Galerías Pacífico. Accommodation: 6 deluxe suites & 6 deluxe rooms overlooking Plaza San Martín, 6 Executive Suites, 36 Superior rooms and 42 Standard rooms. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom, hair dryer, telephone with DDI and DDN, answering machine and voice mail, air conditioning and heating, cable TV with 65 channels and control remote, safe box, radio AM/FM, minibar, electronic key, double glass windows, electricity 110 / 220 V. Hidromassage in the deluxe suites. Non smoking rooms. Facilities and services: concierge service, luggage deposit, laundry and dry cleaning service, 24 hs medical service, cellular phone and internet access. Restaurants: Le Premier : the most demanding gourmet will be able to taste different specialities, prepared under the supervision of our Chef. You will be able to enjoy our International Menu á la carte and the Executive Menu at midday, with the best Argentine and international wines. Bar La Tulipe: you may enjoy drinks, snacks, fast food. Meeting facilities: Room School Theatre Reception Banquet Diplomat Canciller Canciller Le Premier / Ambassadeur 150/200 90/110 Grand Canciller Foyer Premier 70 Baccarat Le Petit Le Grand Foyer Baccarat 70 Built in: Recently remodelled rooms, lobby bar, restaurant, meeting rooms, gym and reception. Location: in the center of Buenos Aires, a few meters from Lavalle Street and the commercial and recreational area of the city. Accommodation: 128 single or double rooms and 12 triple rooms, 10 suites and 5 apartaments. All rooms are supplied with: carpet, private bathroom with hidromassage, telephone with DDI/DDN, heating, cable TV, safe box, programmed music system, radio, kitchenette, minibar, PC and modem connection. Facilities and services: elevators, medical assistance, emergency exits, business center, fax service, PC, secretary and translator service, cellular phone available on request, gym, 24 hs room service, babysitter and day-care, laundry and dry cleaning service, gift shop, transfer in/out. Restaurant: Victoria : a warm place where you will be able to enjoy the most exquisite dishes of the international cuisine. Meeting facilities: Salon Rochester 130 people, Cypress 25 people, Boardroom 12 people. 39

40 Las Naciones **** Address: Av.Corrientes 818 (C1043AAV) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Web site: 71 Nogaró **** Address: Av. Julio A. Roca 562 (C1067ABN) Buenos Aires Telephone: Web site: Pampas and Sierras Location: in the center of the financial and commercial area of Buenos Aires city. Near the Obelisc and the renowned Florida Street, provides easy access to the main banks, distinguished shops, shows and prestigious restaurants. Accommodation: 113 rooms, including singles, doubles, triples and suites. The suites have a main bedroom, a complete bathroom and a second room that may be used as a second bedroom, desk or living room. All rooms are supplied with: air conditioning, cable TV and individual safe box. Services and facilities: laundry and dry cleaning service, show and restaurant reservations, complete gym with last generation equipment, parking lot. Restaurant: it offers an exquisite and accesible executive menu. Lobby Bar: you may enjoy drinks, snacks, fast food, cakes, juices and fruit shakes. Meeting facilities: it offers a meeting room with professional personnel, qualified translators, secretaries and the necessary technical support as fax, PC's, internet access, and mail boxes. Capacity: 400 people. 39 Lafayette **** Address: Reconquista 546 (C1003 ABL) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Web site: Built in: Remodelled in Location: in the heart of Buenos Aires, a few meters from the pedestrian Florida Street and La Manzana de las Luces, with easy access to the commercial and financial center of the city. Accommodation: 140 classic and deluxe rooms, including 10 suites. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom, jacuzzi in all the suites, telephone with DDI/DDN, central heating, cable TV, safe box, programmed music system, internet connection and magnetic lock. Facilities and services: business center with free internet access, , fax, parking lot, car rental, transfers, babysitter, laundry service, medical assistance. Meeting facilities: Room Marsella 150 people, Lyons 25 people, Cannes 18 people. 48 Hostería **** Posta Carretas Address: Esmeralda 726 Buenos Aires Telephone: / Location: in the center of the financial area, close to Galerías Pacífico Mall, Florida St., prestigious stores, airline companies, banks, Puerto Madero and only 7 blocks away from the Congress Palace. Accommodation: 83 exquisitely decorated large rooms supplied with: complete private bathrooms, colour cable TV, telphone with DDN/DDI and answering machine, frigobar, individual safe box and magnetic locks. Facilities and services: medical coverage, room service, laundry and dry cleaning, credit cards, billingüal personnel, business center, internet access and parking. Restaurant: Midi Restaurant: modern and refined offers all kind of exquisite food. Meeting facilities: Three large rooms for multiple use, equipped with the latest technology in sound and light, with capacity from 60 to 120 people. Web site: Built in: inaugurated in Remodelled in 1999 with the incorporation of an additional tower of 46 rooms and a heated swimming pool. Accommodation: 86 rooms, superiors and suites. All rooms are supplied with: tub with hydromassage, hair dryer, telephone with DDN/DDI, individually controlled air conditioning, cable TV, individual electronic safe box, frigobar, internet access, electric connection: 110 and 220 watts. Facilities and services: business center, safe box, gym, swimming pool, solarium, medical assistance, laundry and dry cleaning service, shoeshine service, indoor parking lot with valet parking service, massage service, transfer service, baby sitter, bilingual secretary. Fax, VCR in the room and cellular phone available on request. Restaurant: Bar Restaurant for 60 people. Meeting facilities: Library room. Capacity: 45 people in auditorium setting. Garden Room. Capacity: 40 people. 78 Imperial Park *** Address: Lima 601 (C1073AAC) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Web site: Built in: Location: in the hearth of the city, surrounded by theatres, restaurants, near the financial and governmental area. A few metres away from the historical May Avenue, the Obelisc and Corrientes Avenue. Accommodation: 60 executive single and double rooms. All rooms are supplied with: digital telephone with DDN and DDI, air conditioning, cable TV, individual safe box, frigobar, PC and modem connection ( and internet), answering machine, coded magnetic card lock, double glass window with acoustic isolation. All of them with outdoor view. Facilities and services: valet service, free parking lot, business center, translators, gym, solarium, smoke and gas detectors, antipanic exits in public areas, medical assistance, elevators, 24 hs room service, laundry and dry cleaning service. Restaurant: Coffe Lounge : with a panoramic view of 9 de Julio Avenue, offers menu a la carte. Lobby Piano-Bar 101 : offers coffee, coktails and drinks. Meeting facilities: Rooms Banquets Conferences/Auditorium Emperador Emperatriz

41 Carsson **** Address: Viamonte 650 (C1053AB) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Web site: Castelar **** Hotel & Spa Address: Av.De Mayo 1152 (C1085ABO) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Web site: Built in: Remodelled in Location: in Buenos Aires downtown, a few meters away from Florida St. and the cultural and shopping centers. Accommodation: 87 double rooms, 2 apartments and 2 junior suites. All rooms are supplied with: carpet, private bathroom, hair dryer, telphone with DDN, DDI and voice mail, air conditioning and heating, cable TV, mini-bar, programmed music system, magnetic lock, PC and modem connection. Facilities and services: indoor parking lot, child-care room, safe box, 24hs room service, business center, PC, translator and secretary service, cellular phone. Restaurants: room for 110 people. Meeting facilities: Rooms Banquet Cocktail School Executive Large Built in: inaugurated November 4th, Built by the Engineer José Pizone. Accomodation: 160 rooms: singles, doubles, junior suites, triples, apartments for 3, 4 and 5 people, suites. Facilities and services: business center, cafeteria, safe box, laundry and dry cleaning service, parking, medical assistance and spa services. Presidential Rooms : offers two presidential rooms with absolute privacy, telephone line, heating, optional gastronomic service. Capacity: 15 people maximum. Restaurant: Castelar Hotel & Spa offers international food. Capacity: 44 people. Meeting facilities: Room Measures Auditorium Cocktail School U Setting Banquets Golden Room 250 mt 2 30 to to to to to 220 Foyer Room 90 mt 2 15 to to to to Gran Hotel *** Argentino Address: Carlos Pellegrini 37 (C1009ABA) Buenos Aires Telephone: /2 Fax: Web site: 65 República **** Address: Cerrito 370 (C1010AAH) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Web site: Built in: inaugurated July 15th, Location: strategically located in the center of Buenos Aires, oppposite Plaza de la República Obelisc and close to the business and the night centers of the city. Accommodation: 209 standard and deluxe rooms. All rooms are supplied with: telephone with DDI/DDN, central air conditioning, cable TV, programmed music system, safe box, frigobar, acoustic isolation, computerized locks. Facilities and services: business center with boardroom desk for 8 people, PC, internet connection, mail, printer, scanner, photocopier, fax, 2 telephone lines, laundry and dry cleaning service, 24 hs room service. Finlander Room : offers unique characteristics, Turkish and Finnish bathroom, sauna, large swimming pool with hidrojets for massages and a modern gym assisted by specialized personnel. All male guests have access with no extra charge. Restaurant: 1 bar. Capacity: 60 people. Meeting facilities: Bonastro room. Capacity: 45 people in theatre setting. 79 Gran Hotel *** de la Paix Address: Av.Rivadavia 1155 (C1033AAB) Buenos Aires Telephone: /63 Web site: Location: 50 metres away from 9 de Julio Avenue and 300 metres from Plaza de la Republica (Obelisc). Accommodation: 61 comfortable single and double rooms and 9 suite apartments with two large rooms, double circulation, bathroom, mirror and dresser. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom, hair dryer, telephone with DDN/DDI, air conditioning, central heating, cable TV, fridge, double glass windows for acoustic isolation. Services and Facilities: free safe box, medical assistance with protected area service, non smoking rooms, fax, business center with free internet access. Meetingd facilities: one hall located on the main floor, ideal for business meetings, perfectly equipped with air conditioning, 29 cable TV, VCR, music equipment with microphone, fax, telephone, projection screen and blackboard. Capacity: 50 people. Location: on 9 de Julio Avenue, 200 metres away from the Obelisc and Corrientes Ave. Built in: Remodelled in Accommodation: 122 rooms and 20 apartments. All rooms are supplied with: carpeting, private bathroom, telephone with DDN and DDI, air conditioning, cable TV, safe box, programmed music system, internet and PC connection. Facilities and services: parking lot, credit cards, fax, PC's, elevators, medical service, laundry and dry cleaning service, babysitter and 24 hs room service. Restaurant: El Porteño : international menu. Capacity: 50 people. Meeting facilities: Iguazú & Arrayanes rooms: Capacity: 70 people each. 46 Regis Orho Hotel *** Address: Lavalle 813 (C1047AAQ) Buenos Aires Telephone / fax: Web site: Location: downtown, a few meters from Florida Street and Corrientes Avenue, where you may enjoy going to the cinema, restaurants and shopping. Accommodation: 81 superior rooms. All rooms are supplied with: telephone with DDI/DDN, hot/cold air conditioning, fan, colour cable TV, safe box and minibar. Facilities and services: 24 hs room service, laundry and dry cleaning service, valet service, coffee service. Meeting facilities: 1 room. Capacity: 50 people. 81 Hotel Napoleón *** Address: Rivadavia 1364 (C1033AAQ) Buenos Aires Telephone: /6 Web site: Location: in the center of the city, few metres away from the Congress Palace and the Obelisc Built in: Remodelled in Accomodation: 60 rooms. All rooms are supplied with: telephone with DDN and DDI, air conditioning, central heating, cable TV, modem connection, hair dryer, amenities. Facilities and services: 24 hs room service, individual safe box, business center, laundry and dry cleaning, secretarial and translation service, parking. Restaurant: Dijon s. Offers international menu a la carte. Capacity: 80 people. Meeting facilities: 1 meeting room with capacity for 80 people. Pampas and Sierras 41

42 45 Hyde Park *** 56 Carlton **** Address: 572 Maipú (C1006ACF) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Web site: Address: Libertad 1180 (C1012AAX) Buenos Aires Telephone / fax: /2/3/4/5 Web site: Built in: 1975, remodelled in Pampas and Sierras Location: Situated in the center of the city, a few metres away from the pedestrian streets Florida and Lavalle. Near the main malls, shops and banks of the city. Accomodation: 74 rooms. All rooms are supplied with: telephone with DDN and DDI, air conditioning and heating, cable TV, music system. Facilities and services: room service, safe box, laundry and dry cleaning, non smoking rooms, baby sitter, photocopier, internet, fax, translation service, secretarial services, parking lot. Restaurant: 1 restaurant wich offers excecutive menu, 1 snack bar. 88 Hotel Luey *** Address: Av.Rivadavia 2902 (C1203AAO) Buenos Aires Telephone: / Fax: Web site: Location: downtown. Built: 1997 Accommodation: 70 rooms, including single, doble, triple, quadruple rooms, apartments for 5 people, apartments for 6 people. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom, hair dryer, cable TV and magnetic lock. Facilities and services: room service, free parking lot, individual safe box, laundry and dry cleaning service. Restaurants: Cueto, for 170 people. Meeting facilities: Del Sol room. Capacity: 80 people. 31 Waldorf *** Address: Paraguay 450 (C1057AAD) Buenos Aires Telephone / fax: /9 Web site: Location: in La Recoleta, the most elegant and safe district in Buenos Aires, a few metres away from 9 de Julio and Santa Fe Avenues, close to the commercial and financial center of the city, very well known restaurants and the best stores. Accommodation: 84 single, double and triple rooms. All rooms are supplied with: carpeting, private bathroom, hair dryer, telephone with DDN and DDI, air conditioning, heating, cable TV, safe box, minibar, internet connection, desk, thermal and acoustic isolation. Services and facilities: parking lot, business center, laundry, medical assistance, personnel graduated from the best Universities in Hotel Management in Argentina, programmed music system. Meeting facilities: San Francisco : Capacity 90 people in auditorium setting. Coffee break service and gastronomy. Filadelfia : Capacity 20 people. 36 Concorde *** Address: 25 de mayo 630 (C1002ABN) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Web site: Location: excellent downtown location, close to the histotical places, shopping centres and tourist areas. Built in: Totally remodelled in Accommodation: 55 rooms: singles, doubles, triples and suites. All rooms are supplied with: telephone with DDN/DDI, hot/cold individual air conditioning, cable TV, safe box, frigobar, internet connection, programmed music system and hair dryer. Facilities and services: 24hs room service, parking lot, laundry and dry cleaning service, office center from 9 to 19 hs. Restaurants: Snack Bar / Restaurant. Meeting facilities: 1 room for corporate meetings. Capacity: 60 people. Location: in the heart of Buenos Aires, close to the business district, Florida Street, the Galerías Pacífico, Puerto Madero and the best restaurants, theatres and commercial centers. Accommodation: 120 remodelled rooms. All rooms are supplied with: telephone with DDI/DDN, central hot/cold air conditioning, colour cable TV and safe box. Facilities and services: parking lot, laundry service, fax, safe box, 24 hs room service,beauty salon. Restaurant: 1 bar and 1 cafeteria. Meeting facilities: 1 meeting and conference room. Capacity: 50 people 42

43 PAMPAS AND SIERRAS s Apart Hotels Buenos Aires Apart Hotels 9 Feir s Park Hotel ***** Address: Esmeralda 1366 (C1007ABT) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Web site: 63 Broadway **** All Suites Address: Av.Corrientes 1173 (C1043AAL) Buenos Aires Tel / Fax: (54-11) Web site: Location: in the hearth of the district of Barrio Norte, one of the most ecxlusive of Buenos Aires Accomodation: 115 suites: executive suites, senior exeutive suites, Ambassador suites, Chancellor suites, presidential suites and 2 imperial suites of 300 m 2 each. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom, telephone with DDN and DDI, minibar, desk, living-room, balcony, king size bed. Chancellor suite are supplied with jacuzzi, Presidential suites are supplied with jacuzzi, 2 telephone lines, fax. Imperial Suites are supplied with: 3 bedrooms with suite bathrooms, large living-room and dining-room, large reception hall, laundry, and service room with bathroom. Facilities and services: 24 hs room service, gym, sauna, aerobic circuit, relaxing room with massage sofa, swimming pool, outdoor solarium. Restaurant: Cuisine du Park. Offers first class international meal, and the comfortable Saint Andrew s Pub Meeting facilities: excecutive meeting center. Salon del Plata, with a large terrace with a panoramic view, is used for conferences. 68 Obelisco **** Center Suites Address: Diagonal Pte. Roque Saenz Peña 991 (C1035AAE) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Built in: building recycled in Location: in the hearth of the city, a few metres away from the Obelisc. Accomodation: 56 junior suites, 6 executive suites and 4 deluxe suites. All rooms are supplied with: telephone with DDN and DDI, mail box and internet access, cable TV, individual safe box, music system with CD, microwave oven, frigobar, hair dryer, windows with acoustic isolation. Deluxe rooms are also supplied with hidro-massage. Facilities and Services: room service, sauna, gym, Business Center, parking lot with private car access, laundry and dry cleaner service. Restaurante: Bar-Restaurant Marilyn Monroe. Capacity: 50 people. Meeting facilities: Business Center auditorium for 30 people, Marilyn Monroe auditorium for 90 people 13 Loi Suites Arenales Address: Arenales 855 (C1061AAC) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Web site: Location: strategically located in the area of Plaza San Martín, a few meters from the Foreign Office, Florida Street and Santa Fe Avenue. Accommodation: 76 rooms of 1 and 2 rooms with a maximum capacity of 3 people. All rooms are supplied with: telephone, air conditioning, cable TV, safe box, complete kitchenette and hair dryer. Facilities and services: gym access (outdoors), free access to Punta Carrasco during the summer, safe box, individual parking space, business center, internet and flip-chart. Restaurant: 1 snack bar. Meeting facilities: 1 meeting room. Capacity: 10 people maximum. Pampas and Sierras 62 Viamonte Suites **** Web site: Location: opposite the Obelisc, in the heart of Buenos Aires, where 9 de Julio and the traditional Corrientes Avenue meet. Accommodation: it's divided into Hotel Tower with 50 rooms and Apart Tower with 51 rooms with 1, 11/2 and 2 rooms. All rooms are supplied with: telephone with DDI/DDN, central air conditioning, colour cable satellite TV, individual safe box, minibar, fax and modem connection, electronic locks, hair dryer, radio digital watch and king and queen size sommiers. The apartments in the Apart Tower also have kitchenette. Facilities and services: smoke and gas detectors, swimming pool, sauna and equipped gym. Meeting facilities: Rooms Parquet Boardroom Obelisco / Garden 100 / / 25 Address: Viamonte 1373 (C1053ACA) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Web site: Built in: Remodelled in Location: downtown, close to the main financial, commercial, cultural, entertainment and tourist centers. Accommodation: 45 suites including: studio and business suites, executive suites and pent house. All rooms are supplied with: bathroom with telephone and answering machine, individually controlled central air conditioning and heating, digital telephone, answering machine, cable TV, individual digital safe box, programmed music system, internet connection, kitchenette with microwave oven, table, chairs, magnetic lock and acoustic isolation. Facilities and services: room service, 24 hs security service, parking lot, business center, laundry and dry cleaning service, outdoor gym. Restaurant: Viamonte Garden : international cuisine. Capacity: 40 people. Meeting facilities: conference room for 25 people, equipped with boardroom desk for a maximum of 15 people, data projector, flip chart, 20 TV, VCR, PC and minibar. 43

44 93 Golf Tower 61 May Flower Suites Address: La Pampa 1117 (C1428DYW) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Web site: Address: Paraná 720 (C1017AAP) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Web site: Location: in the area of Palermo woods, opposite the golf course, surrounded by lakes and green areas. Accommodation: 55 rooms, including suites and apartments of 1, 2 and 3 large bright rooms. All rooms are supplied with: telephone with DDI/DDN, individual hot/cold air conditioning, colour cable TV, very large and totally equipped kitchens. Facilities and services: 24 hs room service, laundry and dry cleaning service, fax, mail and internet, 24 hs security and closed circuit TV control, swimming pool, paddle courts, gym, sauna, relax, general electrogen system and fixed garages. Restaurant: gastronomic service based on the guests needs. Meeting facilities: rooms for events, conventions or business meetings. Capacity 100 people. Location: located in a strategic place of Buenos Aires, few metres away from downtown. Near the most important avenues, cultural centers and malls. Accomodation: 47 suite rooms: mayflower suites, senior suites, excecutive suites. All rooms are supplied with: air conditioning and individual heating, telephone with DDN and DDI, cable TV, individual safe box with pin, PC/fax connection, direct acces to internet and personal , electronic locks, private circuit channel with independent programmes, acoustic isolation, frigobar, microwave oven, coffe machine, dishes. Facilities and services: laundry, gym, sauna, solarium, business center with internet, cellular phones, individual frozen meals and drinks service, 24 hs. romm service. 60 Design **** Suites & Towers Pampas and Sierras 64 Best Western **** Art Decó Apart Hotel Address: Libertad 446 (C1012AAJ) Buenos Aires Telephone / Fax: /5049 Address: Marcelo T. de Alvear 1683 Telephone / fax: Web site: Built in: inaugurated in August, Accommodation: 20 suites with one room, 20 suites with two rooms. All rooms include: telephone with DDI and DDN, individual heating and air conditioning, cable TV, internet connection, fax, microwave, coffee machine, hidromassage and hair dryer. Facilities and services: american breakfast, access to the hotel's gym and the Megatlon's gym and swimming pool, newspaper delivery and a welcoming glass of champagne. Restaurant: Design Restaurant: Capacity: 20 people. Meeting facilities: One room. Capacity: 50 people in Auditorium setting. Web site: Built in: inaugurated in 1995, remodelled in Accomodation: 50 apartments including: Studio Apartments with Standard bed, Superior Apartment with King and/or Queen size bed, Junior Suite with balcony, Twin full, Duplex 2 levels, Suite with jacuzzi. All apartments include: 21 inch TV with 65 channels, safe box, frigobar, internet connection, desk and American kitchen. Facilities and services: free internet in the lobby, medical assistance, car rental, tours and dinner show hiring.. Restaurant: Art Deco: Capacity: 100 people. Meeting facilities: Room for 25 people. 92 Cristóforo **** Colombo Suites Address: Fray Justo Santa María de Oro 2747 (C1425FOO) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Loi Suites **** Esmeralda Address: Marcelo T. de Alvear 842 (C1058AAL) Buenos Aires Telephone / fax: Web site: Built in: Remodelled in Location: very close to Plaza San Martín and Florida Street making the hotel a perfect place for tourists as well as for business men. Accommodation: 101 apartments of one, two and three rooms with complete kitchen. All apartments are supplied with: cable TV, safe box, voice mail, data port and cellular phone. Facilities and services: 24 hs bilingual personnel, access to the swimming pools, sauna and gym in Le Parc spa, access to Punta Carrasco in summer, 24 hs medical emergency service, business center, garage, laundry and dry cleaning. Restaurant: Loi Suites Restaurant: Capacity: 50 people. Meeting facilities: Ofelia Room 20 people. Web site: Built in: 1993 Accommodation: 160 rooms, including junior, standard, superior and diplomatic. All rooms include: telephone with DDI and DDN, air conditioning and heating, cable TV with 65 channels, safe box, frigobar, kitchenette or kitchen, balcony. Facilities and services: garage with direct access, business center, cyber café, direct access to La Rural. Outdoor swimming pool, solarium, sauna, gym, hidromassage, hair dresser, laundry service, 24 hs security. Restaurant: Puerto de Palos Restaurant: Capacity: 100 people. International food. Timón Bar: Capacity: 20 people. Meeting facilities: Rooms Capacity La Pinta / La Niña / Convención 12 / 14 / 80 44

45 19 Aspen Suites **** 85 Bauen Suites ***** Address: Esmeralda 933 (C1007ABK) Buenos Aires Telephone / Fax: /4313/8059 Web site: Built in: Remodelled in Address: Corrientes 1856 (C1045AAN) Buenos Aires Telephone: Web site: Location: centric, 200 metres away from Florida St. in the commercial and turistic area. Accomodation: 148 rooms: 67 standard rooms, 26 superior rooms, 23 deluxe rooms, 29 one bedroom suites, 2 two bedroom suites and 1 penthouse. All rooms are supplied with: carpet, private bathroom, telephone with DDN and DDI, central heating, air conditioning, cable TV, safe box, programmed music system, kitchenette, private balcony. Facilities and services: parking lot, laundry, lifts, fax, medical assistance, secreterial service, gym, sauna, solarium. Restaurant: a bar-restaurant. 2 Recoleta Apart Hotel **** Address: Guido 1948, Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Web site: Location: in La Recoleta district, close to the center of the city of Buenos Aires. Accommodation: 90 rooms. Junior suite: one 30 m 2 twin or double room supplied with a table and two chairs. Executive Suites: 2 rooms of 35 m 2 each, a livingroom and a bedroom with a double bed. Family Suites: 2 connected rooms, one with a doble bed and the other with three individual beds. All rooms are supplied with: telephone with DDI/DDN, hot / cold air conditioning, colour cable TV, individual safe box, central music, minibar, magnetic locks and kitchenette. Facilities and services: garden, swimming pool, solarium, gym, sauna, massage, DDI-fax, AT&T central telephone system, internet connection, laundry service, security guard, wake up call and parking lot 20 m from the hotel. Restaurant: Bar Jardín : located on the ground floor. Meeting facilities: conference room. Rooms Auditorium Banquet School Cocktail Garden / Golden 40/120 34/60 40/80 60/200 Built in: Location: next to downtown Buenos Aires, in the heart of the night of the city, close to the main companies, theatres, shoppings and the most important activity centers of the city. Accommodation: 88 apartments including duplex, standard and 1 Presidencial Suite. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom with hair dryer and telephone, telephone with DDI/DDN, air conditioning, heating, 20 inch cable TV, safe box, microwave oven, set of dishes, frigobar, fridge, internet connection, voice mail, answering machine, fax, modem, magnetic locks. Facilities and services: room service, medical assistance, laundry and dry cleaning service, unisex hairdresser, outdoor gym, solarium, vehicle access with private ramp, garage, business center with fax, internet connection, secretary and translator service, PC rental. Restaurant: LaTerraza Meeting facilities: Rooms Cocktail Banquet Auditorium School U Emperial Diplomat Counsellor Pampas and Sierras Resort de Campo y Polo **** Address: Ruta 6 y Río Luján (6700) Open Door - Buenos Aires. Telephone: (02323) Web site: Location: in one of the best country places of the area, near the main golg clubs of the country, just 45 minutes away from the center of the city. Accommodation: 32 rooms with large windows and polo courts view. All rooms are supplied with: air conditioning, heating, satellite 20 TV, minibar and safe box. Facilities and services: bycicle, football field, tennis and volely court, recreation room with: pool, metegol, sapo, ping-pong, table games; children recreation, indoor heated swimming pool, heliport, 24 hours security, golf driving, horseback riding, carriage ride, taqueo classes, massages, tennis individual classes, flights on ultralight planes, golf club, medical assistance, trasfers, internet connection. Restaurant: 1 restaurant. Offers Mediterranean and Argentinean meals. 1 bar. Meeting facilities: Room Cocktail Banquet Auditorium Directory Alfredo Lavallo Los Aromos Los Aromos 1, 2 o Sheraton Pilar **** Address: Panamericana km 49.5 (1629) Pilar Provincia de Buenos Aires Telephone: (02322) Fax: (02322) Web site: Location: 40 minutes from the city center of Buenos Aires, in Pilar. Conveniently near 300 local and multinational companies, commercial centers, cinemas, universities, a polo field and the best golf courses. Accommodation: 140 rooms including 8 suites. All rooms are supplied with: 3 telephones with 2 DDI/DDN lines, individually controlled air conditioning, 29 cable TV, safe box, minibar, stereo with CD, data port, alarm clock and hair dryer. Facilities and services: non smoking rooms, totally equipped business center, hairdresser, 24 hs room service, laundry and dry cleaning service, medical service, parking lot, health club and spa including: 1 indoor and another outdoor swimming pool, completely equipped gym, humid and dry sauna, jacuzzi, massages, relax room, tennis court with artificial light and children games, transfer to/from the airport, car rental. Restaurant: Don Giovanni : offers Italian gourmet food in an elegant atmosphere. Las Vasijas : the perfect place for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Lobby bar : offers delicious cocktails, special licors and snacks. Meeting facilities: Rooms Theatre School Reception Banquet Los Girasoles A / B / C Los Alamos D / E / F / G

46 PAMPAS AND SIERRAS Buenos Aires Estancias Dos Talas Built by Pedro Luro in the XIX century, Dos Talas is one of the most important estancias in Argentina. Its magnificent 40 hectares park designed by Carlos Thays surrounds the main house. Its chapel, a replica of a French chapel, contains art works of French origin. Its library with more than 3,000 Spanish, French and Italian books published during the XVIII, XIX and XX century is one of the most important ones. Location: Dolores, 204 km South from downtown Buenos Aires. Accommodation facilities: 4 rooms: 1 suite and 3 rooms with shared bathrooms. Production: agriculture and cattle production. Activities in the estancia: horseback riding, cycling, volanta or sulky guided rides, swimming. Activities in the surrounding area: flights in glider planes from the AeroClub, kayaking and sailing in Dolores lagoon. Meals: barbecue (beef, lamb and pork) and local specialties. Home made cakes and desserts. El Faisán Pampas and Sierras The building has the typical colonial architecture of the end of the XIX century and beginning of the XX century: ground floor construction with rooms aligned in a row surrounded by a roofed gallery. It has 2,000 hectares and the main house is surrounded by an old grove. Location: Navarro, 100 km West from downtown Buenos Aires. Accommodation facilities: Main house: 2 double en-suite rooms and 1 appartment with 2 rooms and 1 bathroom. Guest house: 1 room with several beds and bathrooms. Production: agriculture and cattle production; the main activity is the milk production, with 5 modern dairies based on the Holando-Argentino breed. Activities in the estancia: horseback rides, carriage rides, swimming, soccer and tennis. Activities in the surrounding area: water sports in Lobos Lagoon. Meals: international dishes and local specialties, asado (Argentine barbecue). El Ombú de Areco The magnificent Italian style farmhouse, built in 1,890 by General Richieri is surrounded by 300 hectares of fields. Location: San Antonio de Areco, 110 km North from downtown Buenos Aires. Accommodation facilities: 6 rooms with private bathroom. Production: principally cattle breeding, agriculture. Activities in the estancia: swimming, horseback rides, old carriages rides, football, farm work watching. Activities in the surrounding area: golf and tennis courts in San Antonio de Areco Club. Visit to San Antonio de Areco and Ricardo Güiraldes Museum. Meals: international dishes and local specialties. El Rosario de Areco El Rosario de Areco is a colonial style estancia being its main house built in 1,892. It has an extense park of 14 hectares with a great variety of trees such as the centenary Ubajaí, brought from Entre Ríos province by the current owners ancestors. Location: San Antonio de Areco, 110 km Northwest from downtown Buenos Aires. Accommodation facilities: 2 comfortable apartments for 2 or 3 people with private bathroom and heating. 6 double rooms with private bathroom. Production: this estancia dedicates its 148 hectares to agriculture and specially to breeding and training polo horses. Activities: Horseback rides, sulky rides, biking, swimming, strolls around the main house and the stables, polo demonstrations and lessons. Activities in the surrounding area: golf and tennis courts in San Antonio de Areco Club and excursions to San Antonio de Areco. Meals: barbacues, home-made dishes and international cuisine. Vegeterian menu. 46

47 Juan Gerónimo Juan Gerónimo is a traditional stancia founded in 1,920 in Tudor-style. Its 4,000- hectares are located in the World Natural Biosphere Reserve UNESCO, overlooking Samborombón Bay. A wide variety of wildlife can be observed: axis deers, white herons, royal lapwings, and various other bird species. Location: Verónica, 165 km South from downtown Buenos Aires. Accommodation facilities: Main building: 8 rooms with 6 bathrooms. Guest's House: 3 rooms with 1 bathroom. Production: agriculture and cattle breeding Activities in the estancia: horseback rides, carriage rides, mountain bike expeditions to sand dunes, mud flats and lakes. Paddle, trekking, fishing, bird watching, rural activities. Meals: local and international cuisine. La Concepción La Isolina This estancia was founded at the beginning of the XIX century. The main house was built in French style. The guesthouse, known as the Chalet, has a large sleeping room with changing room and showers. There are more than 200 hectares of a superb park and a great neo gothic chapel. La Concepción is famous for its polo tradition. The polo fields, the world class horses and instructors are available for those who like this sport. Location: 120 km West from downtown Buenos Aires, in Lobos County. Accommodation facilities: 27 rooms. Main house: 9 rooms with en-suite bathroom. Chalet: 2 suites of two rooms, 2 simple rooms and a room with 8 beds. Small House: 4 rooms and 2 bathrooms. Production: agriculture and cattle production. Activities in the estancia: walks, horseback rides, carriage rides, swimming, football, tennis, paddle and farm work watching. Activities in the surrounding area: golf in Lobos (10 km from the estancia) and water sports in Lobos Lagoon. Hunting possibilities: fishing and hunting excursions can be arranged upon request. Meals: international dishes and local specialties. Pampas and Sierras Located on the banks of Tapalqué river at the foot of Olavarría Hills, La Isolina's English style main house was built in 1,920 and its furniture has remain unchanged since then. A 10 hectares park surrounds the main building. Location: Colonia Hinojo, 350 km Southwest from downtown Buenos Aires, near Olavarria. Accommodation facilities: 6 rooms with 3 bathrooms. Production: agriculture and cattle production, specially Hereford. Activities in the estancia: participation in the rural activities, carriage rides, bird watching, canoeing and fishing in the stream. Swimming. Tennis (grass tennis court). Activities in the surrounding area: golf. Meals: local and international cuisine. San Agustín Location: Lobos County, 125 km West from downtown Buenos Aires. Accommodation facilities: Main house: 4 double rooms with two bathrooms. 4 beds with one bathroom in the attic. Guest's house: 3 suites. Production: it is devoted to agriculture and cattle production, mostly dairy products (very common in the area). Activities in the estancia: horseback rides, rides in carriages, swimming, tennis, water ski, boats rides, fishing on Salado River. Meals: local and international dishes, asado (Argentine barbecue). 47

48 San Pedro San Pedro is one of the oldest and most important farms in Argentina. The main house was originally built in 1,872. In 1,928 the present Tudor style residence was constructed. It is surrounded by an aged park of 180 hectares, designed by the prestigious landscape gardener Charles Thays. Every third Sunday the residents and neighbours of the village gather at the splendid gothic chapel. Location: Villa Montero, Entre Ríos Province, 350 km North from downtown Buenos Aires. Accommodation facilities: Main house: 3 rooms with private bathroom and 2 suites. Guest house: 2 rooms with private bathroom and 4 rooms with sharing bathrooms. 1 loft-bungalow with 6 beds and 2 bathrooms. Production: rice is the main activity, also cattle breeding. Activities in the estancia: walks, swimming, birdwatching, safaris across the woodland to take pictures, fishing in streams and in Gualeguaychú River. Activities in the surrounding area: visit to San José Palace, El Palmar National Park, Uruguay River (beaches, etc), golf. Meals: barbecues, "empanadas" (meat stuffed pastries), salads, lamb, home made pastas. There are also pies, stews, and desserts. Santa Rita Pampas and Sierras Villa María A large park surrounded by a 40 hectares centennial wood is the setting for the superb architecture of the main house, built in Victorian style, resembling the great European country houses of the colonial era. The living-room with its wood burning fireplace and reading corners afford views of the outstanding park and create a warm and private atmosphere. The park with its large avenues of varied species is ideal for horseback riding or carriage riding. Location: Lobos, 130 km West from downtown Buenos Aires. Accommodation facilities: 9 rooms with private bathroom. Production: agriculture and cattle production. Activities in the estancia: horseback rides, carriage rides, swimming, walks, cycling, bird watching, participate in rural activities: milking and orchard. Activities in the surrounding area: visit Lobos Lagoon, Juan Domingo Perón Museum, Nuestra Señora del Cármen Church, Pulpería La Estrella, golf, fishing. Meals: traditional Argentine barbecue. Home made cuisine and international dishes. Villa María's imposing Norman Tudor style main house was built at the beginning of the century by the well-known architect Bustillo. It's large living room, the dinning room, the lounge and the billiard room are all tastefully furnished. A splendid 110 acres park with varied species and sculptures designed by Charles Thays surround the main house. Location: Máximo Paz, 47 km Southwest from downtown Buenos Aires. Accommodation facilities: Main house: 5 en-suite two bedrooms and 1 ensuite one bedroom. Guest's house: 1 en-suite three bedrooms, 2 rooms with private bathroom (en-suite) and 2 rooms with bathroom. Activities in the estancia: walks, horseback rides, cycling, swimming, tennis and croquet. Meals: local home-made meals and international dishes. 48

49 PAMPAS AND SIERRAS Mar del Plata Sheraton Mar ***** del Plata Address: Alem 4221 (B7600DXC) Mar del Plata Hotels Costa Galana ***** Address: Boulevard Marítimo Patricio Peralta Ramos 5725 (B7602EAI) Mar del Plata Telephone: (0223) Fax: Telephone: (0223) Fax: (0223) Web site: Location: strategically located on Alem street and in front of Mar del Plata Golf Club. A few minutes away from the city center, facing the sea. Accommodation: 191 rooms and suites. All rooms are supplied with: telephone with DDI/DDN, colour cable TV, safe box, minibar, answering machine, mail box, internet, facilities for disabled people. Facilities and services: outdoor swimming pool surrounded by gardens, spa services with indoor swimming pool with heated salad water for telesotherapy, aerobic gym, sauna, massages hairdresser, 24 hours room service, laundry service, luggage storage, business center, parking, beach resort, golf link, tennis and fishing. Restaurant: 1 Lobby Bar. Coffe shop La Pampa : situated in the swimming pool area, offers international meals. La Posta Bar: situated in the swimming pool area. Meeting facilities: Room Banquet Theatre Reception School Velez Sarsfield Velez A / B Velez C Carlos Tejedor Juan B. Alberdi Joaquín B. González J. C. Castagnino Victoria Ocampo 140 Atlántico / Cruz del Sur Sector A Sector B Sector C Web site: Built in: January, 1995 Location: on the most aristocratic coast of the city, opposite the bay of Playa Grande beach. Accommodation: 186 rooms and suites with sea view: junior suites, executives suites, honney moon suites, governor suite and presidential suite. All rooms are supplied with: telephone with DDN/DDI, air conditioning, heating, colour cable TV, safe box, stereo, minibar, internet connection and acoustic isolation. Facilities and services: 24 hs room service, beauty salon, health center, anti-stress treatment, massage, 2 mini swimming pools, heated outdoor swimming pool, relax room, sauna, gym, Turkish bath, hydromassage with hot springs, miniclub for children, parking, shops, outdoor golf and tennis access. Restaurante: Le Frac : a deluxe restaurant. Offers meat, pasta, fish and sea food. La Terraza : informal restaurant. The Piano Bar: offers exclusive drinks and cocktails. La Promedade Lobby Bar: a privileged place and meeting point. Meeting facilities: Rooms Theatre School Banquet Alvarez Argüelles Club Juan de Garay Juan de Garay Norte / Centro / Sur Peralta Ramos Peralta Ramos Norte / Sur Real Real Norte / Sur Piano Bar Galería del Mar Pampas and Sierras Presidente **** Address: Corrientes 1516 (B7600EBH) Mar del Plata Telephone: (0223) Fax: (0223) Visón **** Address: Belgrano 2601 (B7600GKM) Mar del Plata Telephone: (0223) /6028 Fax: (0223) Web site: Location: opposite the sea, a few meters from the night life area, commercial galleries and the Central Casino. Accommodation: 54 single and double rooms, apartments, junior and special suites. All rooms are supplied with: telephone with DDI/DDN, central heating, fan, colour cable TV and frigobar. Facilities and services: protected medical area, babysitter, kids club, playroom, parking lot, tea room, laundry and dry cleaning service, 24 hs room service. Restaurant: 1 restaurant and 1 bar. Meeting facilities: Swiss room, Dorée room, Scottish room, Mirador room, Borbones room. Capacity: 10 to 280 people. Web site: Location: strategically located in the center of the city, 600 metres away from Bristol beaches and the Casino. Accommodation: 69 out view rooms. All rooms are supplied with: telephone with DDI/DDN, air condiotioning and heating, colour cable TV, safe box, programmed music system and radio. Facilities and services: 24 hours room service, medical assistance, laundry and dry cleaning service, newspaper every morning, parking, sound, audio and proyection equipment, fax and service, message service, printings, translator service. Restaurant: 1 bar with colour cable TV. Meeting facilities: 1 room for any kind of events. Capacity: 90 people. 49

50 Primacy ***** Address: Sante Fe 2464 (B7600DZZ) Mar del Plata Telephone: (0223) Fax: (0223) Hotel Dos Reyes **** Address: Colón Avenue 2129 (B7600FYB) Mar del Plata Telephone: Fax: Web site: Pampas and Sierras Web site: Built in: Location: in the city center, a few steps from the beaches, casinos, commercial centers, theatres, cinemas, tennis courts and golf clubs. Accommodation: 64 apartments for 2, 4 and 6 people. All apartments are supplied with: digital telephone, air conditioning, heating, colour cable TV with remote control, safe box, programmed music system, AM/FM radio, kitchenette, microwave oven, mini bar, fridge, magnetic lock and hair dryer. Facilities and services: spa, gym, outdoor swimming pool, solarium, sauna, playroom, parking lot, laundry and dry cleaning service, 24 hs. room service, 24 hs. medical assistance, business center, fax, internet, DDN/DDI telephones, translator service, message service, reading room, fitness center, gym, massage, sauna, casino, non smoking areas, smoke detectors, babysitter, safe boxes, elevators, facilities for disabled people, children games. Restaurant: 1 restaurant. Offers delicious sepcialities and international menu during the high season. 1 lobby bar, 1 tea room and 1 snack bar. Meeting facilities: Room Banquet Auditorium Dorado Gascón Gran Hotel **** Iruña Built in: Remodelled in Location: in the city center, a few meters from the beach, near the commercial center and the Casino. Accommodation: 123 rooms, including 12 suites with hydromassage and king size bed. All rooms are supplied with: carpeting, telephone with DDN and DDI, air conditionig and heating, colour cable TV, digital safe box, programme music system, minibar, electronic lock, hair dryer. Facilities and services: business center, gym, indoor parking, medical assistance, laundry and dry cleaning service, fax, 24 hs room service, piano bar and recreaion room. Restaurant: restaurant and bar. Meeting facilities: Rooms Auditorium Banquet Cervantes Rojo Foyer Cervantes room. Capacity: 120 people in reception setting. Versailles **** Address: Moreno 809 (C1091AAQ) Buenos Aires Telephone: Fax: Web site: Address: Juan Bautista Alberdi 2270 (B7600GYB) Mar del Plata Telephone: (0223) Fax: (0223) Web site: Location: opposite the sea, in the center of Mar del Plata, in a strategically area of the city, a few metres away from the pedestrian San Martin street. Accommodation: 156 rooms and suites: standard singles, superior singles, standard doubles, superior doubles, sea view doubles, junior suites. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom, hair dryer, telephone with DDN/DDI, air conditioning, heating, fan, colour cable TV, PC and fax connection. Suites are supplied with minibar. Facilities and services: 24 hs. room service, laundry and dry cleaning service, parking, medical assistance, babysitter, tea room, recreation room, kids games, business center, fax and PC acces. Restaurant: one restaurant that offers international meals. One 24 hs open bar Meeting facilities: Room Theatre School Banquet Blanco Doreé Mirador Escocés Location: in the district of Montserrat, historical area of the city. Built in: January, Accomodation: 315 rooms, 2 presidential suites and many luxurious rooms. All rooms are supplied with: telephone with DDN and DDI, two telephone lines, individually controlled temperature, air conditioning, cable TV, electronic safe box, minibar, large desk, internet acces, electronic lock, alarm system, smoke detector, sprinkler, king size bed, a large mirror and telephone in the bathroom, radio alarm clock, hair dryer, bathrobe, cellular phone, acoustic isolation. Facilities and services: 24 hs room service, laundry, travel agency and excursions, boutiques, indoor swimming pool, trainning center, sauna, vapour bath, jacuzzi, massage room, gym. Restaurant: Mediterraneo, Café de las Luces and Terraza del Virrey. Meeting facilities: Rooms Banquet Reception Auditorium School Boardroom Montserrat Soldi Quinquela Picasso / Dalí / Miró Mozart / Chopin / Verdi Borges Moliere

51 Argentino **** Address: Belgrano 2225 (B7600GKE) Mar del Plata Telephone / fax: (0223) or Riviera *** Address: Belgrano 2118 (B7600GKD) Mar del Plata Telephone: (0223) /27 Fax: (0223) Web site: Built in: Remodelled permanently. Location: in the city center in a typically commercial area, only 100 meters away from the Central Casino, beaches and 200 meters from Plaza General San Martín. Accommodation: 100 rooms including superiors, suites and apartments. All rooms are supplied with: telephone with DDI/DDN, air conditioning, central heating, colour cable TV, programmed music system, frigobar, digital wake up call and hair dryer. Facilities and Services: 100 indoor garages with direct access to the hotel (in low season), individual safe box, 24 hs room service, laundry and dry cleaning, emergency medical service, babysitter, fax and messenger service. Restaurant: Mareinplatz : snack bar and cafeteria specialized in international cocktails. Meeting facilities: Rooms Auditorium Classroom/Banquets Cocktail Breakfasts Red Green Web site: Location: in the centric area of the city, few metres away from the Casino, the sea and the commercial area of Mar del Plata. Accommodation: 165 rooms: 6 singles, 80 doubles, 46 triples, 33 apartaments. All rooms are supplied with: telephone with DDI/DDN, central heating, colour cable TV, safe box, PC and fax connection. Facilities and services: 24 hs room service, laundry and dry cleaning service, beauty salon, medical assistance, hair dresser, babysitter. Restaurant: 1 restaurant with menu a al carte and executive menus. 1 snak wich offers delicious drinks. Meeting facilities: rooms for congresses, conventions, meetings, social or business banquets. Capacity: 10 to 400 people. Torres de ***** Manantiales Guerrero **** Address: J. B. Alberdi 2288 (B7600GYB) Mar del Plata Telephone: /52 Fax: Web site: Location: on the Atlantic Coast a few metres away from the Casino and downtown. Address: Alberti 445 (B7600FHI) Mar del Plata Pampas and Sierras Built in: Various remodels followed Accomodation: 69 standard rooms, superior rooms with Corrientes St. view and superior with sea view. All rooms are supplied with: central heating, fan, telephone with DDN/DDI, colour cable TV, safe box, radio, minibar, sommier bed, hair dryer. Facilities and services: fax, 24 hs internet and pc acces, indoor parking, heated swimmming pool, gym and hydromassage 300 metres away from the hotel, spa service in the Open Spa, free emergency service, laundry and dry cleaning service. Restaurant: the bar restaurant offers a wide variety of fast and healthy food. The coffe shop offers more variety of desserts, and sandwiches. Meeting facilities: White Room. Capacity: 120 people. Sand Room : Capacity: 30 people. Spa República **** Address: Córdoba 1968 (B7600DVP) Mar del Plata Telephone: (0223) /7 Fax: (0223) Web site: Location: in the centric area of Mar del Plata Accommodation: 60 rooms: 32 doubles/singles, 4 triples, 12 apartaments for 4 people, 11 apartaments for 5/6 people and 1 presidential vip suite. All rooms are supplied with: bathroom with bathtube and hairdryer, telephone with DDI/DDN, colour cable TV, minibar, programmed music system and kitchenete with plates. Presidential vip suite is supplied with bathroom in suite with hydromassage, minibar, microwaveoven, large terrace with armchairs and tables, king size bed, living and dining-room, office. Facilities and services: spa, indoor heated swimming pool, solarium, hydromassage, steam bath, sauna, Finland and Turkish bath, relax room, beauty and massage treatments, wardrobe and sanitary instalations, gym, aerobic classes, doctor s office, recreation programme, plays room, business center with internet connection, safe box, valet parking. Restaurant: 1 international restaurant with menu a la carte. Meeting facilities: Salon centenario and Salon Spa, for differents kind of events. Capacity: 5/30 people. Telephone: (0223) Fax: (0223) Web site: Built in: 1989 Location: in the best place of Mar del Plata, near Varese beach, at Los Troncos district entrance and few minutes away from the city center. Accommodation: 220 apartaments with seaview and private terraces (2, 3 or 4 room apartaments). All apartments are supplied with: colour cable TV, kitchen with refrigerator, microwave oven and full living-room. Facilities and services: sauna, gym, summer swimming pool, safe box, maid service, medical assistance, microcinema, play-room, recreation activities, saturday night shows, parking, beauty salon, massages, beauty treatments, babysitter, internet, room service. Club de Mar private beach: offers tents during summer, archery, paddle and volleyball courts and football 5 fields. Restaurant: La Regata and La Costa :offer excellent international meals. Las Nubes coffe shop: offers coffe and drinks in the highest lookout of the city. El Paraiso, Dance and View disco. Meeting facilities: Room Conference Banquet Cocktail School Gran Salón Bahia Varese Stella Maris Microcine La Regata Del Hogar Las Ondas La Costa Las Nubes El Paraíso Galería de la Paz Multiuse space 51

52 PAMPAS AND SIERRAS Córdoba Hotels Sheraton ***** Córdoba Address: Duarte Quiroz 1300 (A5000XLZ) Córdoba Holiday Inn ***** Córdoba Address: Centro Comercial Libertad, Fray Luis Beltrán y M. Cardeñosa, B Poeta Lugones (5008) Córdoba Pampas and Sierras Telephone: (351) Fax: (351) Web site: Built in: 1997 Location: 10 blocks away from the center, on one of the main avenues, 20 minutes away from Cordoba s interntonal airport. Easy access to the city and the touristic area. Opposite the Nuevo Centro Shopping Accommodation: 188 rooms distribuited in 16 floors, including 4 junior suites and 1 presidential suite. All rooms are supplied with: individual air conditionig, telephone with DDN/DDI, cable TV, safe box, minibar, modem and fax connection, electronic lock and hair dryer. Facilities and services: business center with secretary, photocopier, PC, Neptune Club health center, gym, swimming pool, sauna, relaxing room, parking, medical assistance, laundry and dry cleaning, non smoking floors, facilities for disabled people, 24 hs room service. Restaurant: La Pampa Coffe Shop : offers a delicious buffet and a la carte lunch and informal dinners. Lobby Bar : offers an inviting atmosphere, musical shows and international drinks. Meeting facilities: 9 rooms for all kind of events. Room Theater School Reception Banquet Leopoldo Lugones (A, B y C) Room A / B / C Champaquí (A y B) Room A / B Uritorco (A y B) Room A / B Suquía Room A / B Telephone: (0351) Fax: Web site: Built in: Location: priviliged location at the foot of the hills, in the north area of Córdoba city, next to Cerro de las Rosas. Accommodation: 114 rooms and 11 suites. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom with shower, bathrobe, hair dryer and amenities, telephone with answeing machine and dataport, air conditioning, colour cable TV with remote control, AM/FM radio, alarm clock, minibar, modem connection, internet access, desk, iron and ironing board. Facilities and Services 24 hs room service, babysitter, concierge, laundry and dry cleaning service, safe box, shoe shine, wake up call, business center, photocopier, e- mail, internet, executive floors, fax service, PC, printer, limosine service, transfers, parking lot, gym, sauna, swimming pool, massage room. Restaurants: Bistro del Poeta : offers international cuisine. Pucará Bar. Meeting Facilities: Rooms Auditorium Cocktail School Banquets Cerro de las Rosas Cerro de las Rosas A Cerro de las Rosas B / C /50 La Cumbre La Cumbre A / B Río IV Río III Río II La Soleada 300 Foyer Córdoba ***** Plaza Internacional Address: San Jerónimo 137 (X5000AGC) Córdoba Telephone: (0351) Fax: Web site: Built in: Location: strategically situated in the historical, commercial and finanacial area of the city, a few metres away from the traditional San Martin Park, the Cathedral and the Cabildo. Only 20 minutes away from Codoba s international airport. Accommodation: 110 rooms, including standard rooms, junior suites and deluxe suites. All rooms are supplied with: telephone with DDN/DDI in room and bathrom, individually controlled air conditioning and heating, cable TV, individual safe box, minibar, PC and fax connection, acoustic isolation, hair dryer, smoke detectors, volts: 220 v, hydromassage or jacuzzi in suites. Facilities and services: gym, swimming pool, paddle court, sauna, car rental, laundry and dry cleaning, 24 hs room service, medical assistance, indoor garage, transfers with driver, , internet, business center, fax, telephon with DDN/DDI, translator service, audio and audiovisual equipment. Restaurant: Jerónimo : its specialties include meat, pasta and Meeting facilities: Rooms Cocktail Banquet Conference School Cabildo Cathedral Mercadillo Real

53 Amerian **** Córdoba Park Address: San Juan Avenue 165 (X5000ATB) Córdoba NH Panorama **** Business Address: Marcelo T. de Alvear 363 (X5000KGF) Córdoba Telephone / fax: (0351) Telephone: (0351) Web site: Built in: 1992 Location: in the centric area, near San Martin Park, in front of the most important commercial center Patio Olmos Accomodation: 72 single rooms, 19 double rooms, 8 special rooms, 12 standard and 1 luxurious suite. All rooms are supplied with: carpeting, private bathroom, telephone with DDN and DDI, air conditionig and heating, cable TV, safe box, stereo, programme music system, VCR, minibar, bathrobe. Facilities and services: babysitter, lifts, fax service, secretarial service, 24 hs room service, car rental car, medical assisrtance, telex, business center, non smoking rooms, parking, emergency exit, computer service, cellular telephone rental, swimming pool. Restaurant: one restaurant and one British pub Meeting facilities: Room Auditorium Banquet Conference School Park Plaza Amerian "A" Amerian "B" Amerian City Independencia NH Panorama **** Address: Marcelo T. de Alvear 251 (X5000KGE) Córdoba Telephone: (0351) Fax: (0351) Web site: Location: in the city center on the traditional Cañada. Very close to the historical, commercial and financial center, in an important night life area. Accommodation: 72 rooms, including 4 suites. All rooms are supplied with: direct telephone, air conditioning, cable TV, safe box, minibar, amenities and hair dryer. Facilities and services: 24 hs room service, early breakfast, laundry service, parking lot, wardrobe service, gym, sauna, swimming pool. Restaurant: 1 restaurant and 1 bar-cafeteria. Meeting facilities: 2 convention rooms. Pehuen, people 40, Caldén, 25 people. Ducal Suites **** Address: Corrientes 207 (X5000ANE) Córdoba Telephone: (0351) Fax: Web site: Built in: inaugurated in November, Location: centric Accommodation: 82 suites. All rooms are supplied with: digital telephone with DDI/DDN, central heating, colour cable TV, digital safe box, audio channels, frigobar, internet connection, kitchenette and hair dryer. Facilities and services: gym, sauna, outdoor swimming pool, solarium, business center with PC, internet, digital telephone, indoor parking lot, emergency medical protection, laundry and dry cleaning service. Restaurant: Carpaccio : with snack bar and catering service. Capacity: 100 people. Meeting facilities: 2 private offices for business meetings. Rooms: Tiziano, people 60. Tiepolo, people 110, Da Vinci, people 40. Pampas and Sierras Web site: Built in: Remodelled in Location: in the city center, on the traditional Cañada. Near the historic, commercial and financial center, in an important night life area. Accommodation: 212 rooms, including 6 suites. All rooms are supplied with: telephone with DDI/DDN, air conditioning, heating, cable TV with remote control, safe box, internet connection, hair-dryer, amenities and sommier beds. Fecilities and services: 24 hs room service, laundry and dry cleaning service, emergency medical assistance, business center, Terrace Club with sauna, hydromassage, swimming pool and gym. Restaurant: 1 bar restaurant. Meeting facilities: Rooms Banquet Imperial School Theatre Coihue Jacarandá Directorio Arrayan Araucaria Pehuen 40 Calden Windsor **** Address: Buenos Aires 214 (X5000IMF) Córdoba Telephone / fax: (0351) Web site: Built in: Remodelled in 1996 and new tower inauguarted in November, Location: in the cultural and financial heart of the city. Accommodation: 82 rooms including 42 tower, 39 classic and 1 presidential suite. All rooms are supplied with: telephone with DDI/DDN, individually controlled central air conditioning, cable TV, safe box, desk with fax and PC connection. Facilities and services: heated swimming pool, sauna, relax and gym room and business offices equipped with computer, printer, DDI/DDN, magnetic blackboard. Restaurant: 1 piano bar. Oxford : international cuisine. Quincho del Ombú. Meeting facilities: 4 functional meeting rooms for banquets and conferences. Capacity 25 to 100 people in Auditorium setting. 53

54

55 The Littoral The so-called littoral is an extensive area that includes the provinces of Entre Ríos, Corrientes, Misiones, Formosa, Santa Fe and Chaco. Also known as Mesopotamia because it is surrounded by the Iguazú, Paraná and Uruguay Rivers, this is a region where the landscape surprises with its colors and movement. From the gentle slopes of Entre Ríos to the wet marshes of Corrientes and the red hills of Misiones, everything is a reason for amazement. The climate of this area can be considered subtropical and it is moderated by the winds from the Atlantic Ocean, frequent rains and abundant vegetation. The assorted fauna completes its natural attractions, turning it into one of the most captivating regions in Argentina. The littoral is an extensive area that includes Entre Ríos, Corrientes, Misiones, Formosa and Chaco provinces. Enlarged Area Laguna Yema Río Salado Quimilí Río Pilcomayo Castelli Lag. Mar Chiquita Rafaela San Francisco Santa Fe Bell Ville Marcos Juárez Rosario Río Bermejo P ARAGUAY Chaco Reconquista Santa Fe Formosa Clorinda Eldorado Presidencia Roque Sáenz Peña San Pedro Pilar 14 San Ignacio Encarnación Campo Saltos Resistencia Corrientes 12 Grande del Ituzaingó Posadas Oberá Moconá Esteros San Miguel del Iberá San Javier Apóstoles 11 Saladas 40 Santo Tomé Río Duke Río Paraná Paraná 12 Goya 12 Curuzú Cuatiá Esquina La Paz 14 Colón Concepción del Uruguay Gualeguaychú Formosa Entre Ríos Concepción Asunción Ciudad del Este Foz de Iguazú Pt.Iguazú Esperanza Yapeyú Concordia Paso de los Libres San Nicolás Mercedes de los Arroyos 9 San Pedro Venado Baradero Tuerto Pergamino Rufino Zárate Campana Colonia Junín Mercedes Luján Buenos Chivilcoy Aires La Plata MONTEVIDEO 9 de Julio Lobos Brandsen Pehuajó Saladillo Chascomús Buenos Aires 81 Río Paraguay Corrientes URUGUAY Río de la Plata Uruguay Misiones BRASIL Chuy Punta del Este Scala en km Río Iguazú N 55 The Littoral

56 THE LITTORAL Puerto Iguazú The Littoral INCENTIVES The region is ideal to perform successful Incentive Trips. The jungle provides the perfect setting with its exotic touch and its deluxe hotels. Different theme parties can be hold such as: a Forest Dinner in the core of the dense jungle, an encounter with Guaraní aborigines at the Aripuca (the replica of an old aborigine hunting trap, or the Great Adventure finishing at El Arenal beach with an exotic tropical cocktail on the banks if the Iguazú River. All of it enhanced by the mix of nationalities typical of this frontier land, which will be tasted in each meal and enjoyed in the typical sounds and rhythms of each culture. The main attractions of this area are, undoubtedly, the Iguazú Falls.They are located in the northwest extreme of the province of Misiones, 1,400 km(875miles) from Buenos Aires, where the waters of the Iguazú River (limit between Argentina and Brazil) flow from a height of 70 meters (233 feet) onto the inferior course of the river offering the unique spectacle of its 275 falls that seem to emerge from the virgin jungle of the Iguazú National Park, which protects over 2,000 flora species and 400 bird and wild animal species. Iguazú means Great Waters in the language of the Guaraníes,aborigines that inhabited the region prior to white men arrival. Two thirds of the falls are within the Argentine limits. However, it is necessary to explore both sides since there is a very good panoramic view from Brazil. To feel the falls close enough and enjoy the beauty of its vegetation, birds and butterflies, it is essential to walk along the walkways and paths on the Argentine side. At the Visitors Center, located in Area Cataratas ( Falls Area ) of the Argentine National Park, an open train is boarded for a 15-minute trip up to Estación Cataratas ( Falls Station ) (wherefrom the Superior and Inferior Walkways are reached) and Estación Garganta ( Devil s Throat Station ) (wherefrom a 1,200-meter walkway leads to the observation balcony of the Devil s Throat, the most imposing of them all). Another alternative to reach the Inferior and Superior Walkways is a walk along the so-called green path (about 15-minute long). The Inferior Walkway permits a closest contact with the waterfalls and the natural pools, allowing the visitor to enjoy the impressive scenery where beautiful rainbows formed by the mist of the falls contrast with the bright green of the exuberant vegetation. On the banks of the inferior course of the Iguazú River Puerto Peligro is placed, an improvised pier with access through the Inferior Walkway. Here, you may board the small motorboats crossing the river up to the San Martín Islands or the zodiac motorboats to get close to the most plentiful waterfalls such as Arrechea, San Martín, Tres Mosqueteros, Bozetti and Devil's Throat falls. The Superior Walkway stretches along the upper part of the falls, over the Iguazú River superior course, where the cascades start. It is possible to observe from this walk way the Dos Hermanas, Chico, Ramírez, Bozetti, Adán y Eva and San Martín falls. From the observation balcony of the Devil s Throat you get a magnificent view of this impressive fall, indeed the most plentiful and imposing of the whole arc of the falls. The fall is 150 m. (500 feet) wide, 700 m. (2,330 feet) long and the Iguazú 11 Formosa Formosa Resistencia Corrientes Río Paraná Enlarged Area Río Paraguay Saladas Río Paraná Asunción 12 Yaciretá Ituzaingó Corrientes Esteros del Iberá P ARAGUAY Esteros del Iberá San Miguel Encarnación Posadas Ciudad del Este Puerto Iguazú Campo Grande 25 de Mayo San Ignacio Oberá Leandro N. Alem San Javier Apóstoles Santo Tomé Foz do Iguaçu Cataratas del Iguazú Río Iguazú Wanda Esperanza Bernardo de Irigoyen Eldorado San Pedro 14 Misiones Río Uruguay San Vicente Saltos del Moconá BRASIL Scale in km N River flows 1,700 m 3 of water per second therein. A good way to explore the hidden life of the subtropical jungle is to take a drive in 4WD vehicles along the different paths purposely open in the jungle. On the Argentine side, the Yacaratia Path travels 7 km through the heart of the jungle reaching Macuco Pier, embarking or disembarking pier for the Great Adventure. Another path specially designed for photographic safaris and bird watching is the Macuco Path on the Brazilian side. Both paths, leading to the inferior course of the Iguazú River, are part of an excursion which may turn into an unforgettable experience. With different names, at each side of the border, they are the passport to a thrilling adventure that starts at the very moment of putting on the life jackets and comes to its best when reaching the very point where the falls meet the waters of the inferior course of the river. This excursion is known as Great Adventure on the Argentine side and Safari Macuco on the Brazilian side. Near Puerto Peninsula, on the banks of the Paraná 56

57 River, 7 km (4miles) southwest from Puerto Iguazú stands a Natural Reserve Area ideal to practice adventure or eco-tourism activities. Arriving by 4WD vehicles, visitors can fully enjoy the subtropical rainforest, with the possibility of getting to know its flora and watch the quite abundant bird fauna of the region. Activities such as rappel, Tyrolese, trekking and canopy can be practiced in the reserve. This tour, called Iguazú Forest, is another option to keep exploring the beauties that nature offers in the area. A few kilometers from the falls, in Brazilian territory, stands the Itaipú Dam, considered a masterpiece of engineering. The dam is 8 km (5 miles) long and has a spillway that can pour 60,000 m 3 of water per second, a channel and an artificial lake with a surface of 1,350 km 2.It is an enormous power plant, which can produce up to 12, 6 thousand megawatts, considered one of the seven wonders of modern world, according to the Civil Engineering American Association. Technical and tourist visits are available. Only 60 km (37 miles) from the Iguazú Falls, situated over the Superior Course of the Iguazú River, the Yacutinga Lodge and its Wild Life Refuge are settled in the core of the subtropical jungle, were the sounds and images of the forest seem to fit perfectly with the natural-looking constructions built with local materials such as stone and wood from fallen trees. An important eco-touristic project never attempted before in Argentina, whose philosophy is to preserve nature and to teach visitors, through an array of different activities, to love and respect it. On the Uruguay River, 200 km (125 miles) from Iguazú, the Moconá Falls, which can only be reached in small expedition groups, appear in the middle of the jungle. Located in the border between the Argentine province of Misiones and Brazil, the Uruguay River forms a beautiful and imposing fall when it splits its waters in two arms and flows over its own course in a cascade parallel to the coast which is about 3 km (2 miles) long with waterfalls that range from 5 to 12 m. (16 to 40 feet) in height. Tourist facilities are scarce and the area can only be reached by 4WD vehicles from the small town of El Soberbio. A few kilometers south from Puerto Iguazú, you can visit the precious and semi-precious stone Mines of Wanda (agate, quartz, amethyst, among others, can be found there). A few kilometers further south, you reach the small city of Eldorado with its citrus, pine tree forestations, yerba mate and tea plantations. Going on southward, along National Route 12, the city of Montecarlo stands surrounded by thick forestations in an area of hilly slopes, 130 km (82 miles) from the Iguazú Falls and 185 km from Posadas. This village, located on the banks of the Paraná River, houses the small Zoo Bal Park, with a wide variety of autochthonous fauna species. Montecarlo stands out for its citrus production, its reforestation activities, and cellulose production. The nearby complex Celulosa Argentina, situated in Puerto Piray is an example of it. In October, the National Festival of the Orchid and the Provincial Festival of the Flower are held in the city. From here, the road goes through the small cities of Puerto Rico and Jardín América, wherein it is interesting to see the small 10-meter (33 feet) high cascade called Salto Tabay appearing in the middle of the thick surrounding forest of autochthonous species. After a drive of 240 km (150 miles) from Iguazú you reach San Ignacio, Santa Ana and Loreto Jesuit Ruins just a few kilometers before the city of Posadas. GAME FISHING The dorado and surubí are native fish of Río de la Plata river basin, which gathers to great tributaries: the Uruguay and the Paraná rivers. The dorado, also known as tiger of the rivers due to its fighting spirit and its ability to obtain its food, can be fished by various methods: with lures (spinning or trolling); with flies; or with live bait. Once hooked, it tries to get rid of the hook jumping repeatedly clear out of the water and shaking its head violently. Males rarely exceed 5 kg while females weigh an average of 10 kg. The surubí is, undoubtedly, the largest fresh-water fish in Argentina. There are two species of surubí according to the color of the skin: the spotted catfish (reaching 50 kg) and the tiger or barred catfish (reaching 20 kg). The distinguishing features of the surubí are: its scale-less body and its large and flattened head with small eyes, a huge mouth and whiskery barbs. A number of different techniques can be used to hook it: trolling, spinning, fly-casting and fishing with live bait (adrift and stationary). FISHING GROUNDS: Misiones: Montecarlo and Puerto Rico; Corrientes: Esquina, Goya, Ituzaingó, the Iberá Marshes and Paso de la Patria; Entre Ríos: Concordia and La Paz. The Littoral 57

58 THE LITTORAL Posadas The Littoral Posadas, capital of the province of Misiones, is located 1,000 km (625 miles) from Buenos Aires and 330 km from Puerto Iguazú. It was founded in the second half of the XIX century and was built on the banks of the Paraná River just where an aborigine reservation had been settled in the XVII century. It is a relatively modern urban complex with some old buildings in Bajada Vieja district. The city has a beautiful central square with local tree species such as lapacho, jacarandá, pindó and petiribí. A few regional art museums exhibit sculptures from the Guaraní Jesuit Missions. It is also possible to visit the Botanical Garden, the Provincial Casino and the Palace of the Mate, which houses a museum devoted to yerba mate (kind of green bitter tea). The city is linked with Paraguay by the San Roque Gonzalez de Santa Cruz Bridge that leads to the city of Encarnación. The main centers of production and growing processes of products such as tea and yerba mate are located in the central area of the province. Such is the case of Oberá,a city located 95 km (60 miles) from Posadas and the second city in the province. It was named like this after a Guaraní cacique and it means the one that shines. It has over 150 industrial companies where wood, tung and tobacco are processed (the main yerba mate processing plants are established in Oberá and Apóstoles.) Most of its inhabitants are Swedish, German, Norwegian, FAUNA AND FLORA Spanish, French, Polish and Russian immigrant descendants, which accounts for the more than 30 different SPOTTING The Iguazú Falls are the temples in the city. During the first week of September, main highlight for visitors the Festival of the Immigrant, that gathers people from but once superseded the everywhere in the province, is held and each community takes part exhibiting its traditional garments, cui- first thrill the surrounding jungle has also a lot to sine, crafts and dances. In the surroundings there are offer: some 2,000 two nice falls called Berrondo and Escondido, which species of plants, nearly may be watched from its corresponding belvederes. the same number of Oberá also houses one of the most important motorcar butterflies, 100 species racetracks in Argentina, where TC2000, South of mammals, and nearly American Grand Prix (F3) and Turismo Carretera 400 varieties of birds, races take place. In the central area of the province, the including hummingbirds city Aristóbulo del Valle,one of the most important and toucans. villages due to its tea, tobacco and yerba mate plantations rise at about 500 m. (1,665 feet) above sea level. The rest of the region, specially the Iberá Only 4 km (2,5 miles) from Aristóbulo del Valle, more Marshes, is an actual falls can be visited: Salto Encantado, Salto Piedras paradise for birdwatching lovers. The Blancas, Salto Alegre and La Olla, among others. In the same area it is located the town of San Vicente, especially apt for processing the typical local products following species can be observed among others: thanks to its moderate temperatures and humid climate. In December, the Agro-Industrial and Artisan egrets, grebes, storks, ibis, assorted species of Exhibition takes place, where machinery for the wood ducks, eagles. industry is exhibited, accompanied by a 6-day long fes- tival with folk performances and typical dances. Within short distance from the village, a wide variety of animal species can be admired, such as parrots, hummingbirds, tapir, tamandú, yaguareté and capybaras. Jesuit Ruins There are several Jesuit ruins around Posadas. Most Jesuit settlements were located in this region: eight in Paraguay, seven in Brazil and fifteen in Argentina. Some of them appear in rather good conditions but some others have completely disappeared. They are the result of the evangelical determination of the Jesuit priests to convert the Guaraní aborigines to Christianity. This attempt did not produce the expected results so the priests decided to live with the converted ones within missions (reservations of converted aborigines). They had a wellorganized urban outline: a main avenue leading to the central square where a big church, the most important building in the village, was located. Next to the church stood the priests' houses, the school, the offices of the artisans and the warehouses, and on the opposite side of the church, the cemetery. Around the square, the aborigines houses were located. The administration of the village was in charge of a Council of Caciques. Three ruins were declared Historic Heritage by the United Nations, Education, Science and Culture Organization (UNESCO). The best preserved in Argentina are those of San Ignacio Miní,located only 222 km (140 miles) from Iguazú Falls and 55 km (34 miles) from Posadas. It is possible to visit the remains of the imposing temple, the vestry, the school yard with a few classrooms around, the priests' refectory, the orchard, the square and the aborigines houses around it. This mission sheltered about 5,100 inhabitants. The buildings date back to the XVII century and its carvings and architecture reveal the advanced culture of the Guaraní aborigines. Some of the red sandstone walls are 10 m high; the best preserved parts are the columns, the galleries and the steps of the church that reveal the magnificence of the building, finished in San Ignacio Miní was burnt in 1817 by order of a Paraguayan dictator and its 58

59 remains were covered by the jungle until their discovery in Other missions in the Argentine area are: Loreto, Santa Ana, Corpus, Candelaria, San Carlos, San José, Mártires, San Javier, Santa María, Concepción, Apóstoles, Santo Tomé, Yapeyú and La Cruz. What is left of the missions in Paraguay are also ruins in different states of preservation, located in the south of the country near the Paraná River. From an architectural point of view, the missions of Santísima Trinidad del Paraná and Jesús de Tavarangue are the most beautiful and important. Trinidad has buildings of baroque features. The stones of the church façade, the tower and the door of the vestry carved by the Guaraní aborigines are outstanding. It also has stone sculptures, woodcarvings, musical instruments and paintings made also by the aborigines. The construction of this imposing mission took 61 years, from 1706 to 1767 and sheltered up to 3,500 aborigines. Ten kilometers from Trinidad the Spanish style buildings of the ruins of Jesús de Tavarangue arise. The three large doors with arches reveal Moorish-Christian influences and the high stone walls area also outstanding. Other missions in Paraguay are: Santa María, San Ignacio Guazú, Santa Rosa, Santiago, and San Cosme y San Damián. In Brazil, the ruins of San Miguel Arcángel are one of the most beautiful sets of buildings with its monumental baroque church, its façade, its towers, some huge lateral walls with arches and doors. There is also an interesting site museum, which holds a collection of statues and carvings coming from many of the missions that have been lost forever. These ruins were the old missionary capital of the seven missions of Brazil. At the time of splendor, San Miguel Arcángel sheltered about 6,500 Guaraní aborigines. The seven missions were: Santo Angelo, San Juan Bautista, San Lorenzo, San Luis Gonzaga, San Nicolás, San Borja and San Miguel Arcángel. THE LITTORAL Resistencia and Formosa The Littoral These cities are capitals of the provinces of Chaco and Formosa, which constitute a region known as Gran Chaco that occupies the vast lowlands of center-northern Argentina, as well as parts of Bolivia and Paraguay. The climate here becomes drier from east to west, splitting the region in two merging parts. The Dry Chaco in the west is likely to appeal only to the most adventurous spirits. Its wildlife is very diverse, specially with regards to snakes, but even reptile-lovers may find to get around in the region a daunting task, for the country is covered with dense thorn thickets, scarce roads and no facilities for visitors at all. The area of the Argentine littoral called Wet Chaco stretches towards the northwest in Formosa and Chaco provinces, both covered with subtropical forests. Although it has undergone some major clearance for agriculture, it still contains beautiful tracts of woodlands interspersed with marshes. Its marshes and rivers are habitat for diverse fauna species, which lead to the creation of the Pilcomayo River National Park,on the right margin of the mentioned river, in the Province of Formosa. Created in 1951, this park protects an area where marshes and the Palma Blanca and Caranday savannah prevail. There are woods in the highlands, and dense jungle on the riverbanks. One of the gateways to this area is the route starting in the city of Clorinda, some 40 km (25 miles) from Asunción in Paraguay and 15 km (9 miles) from the park, continuing afterwards along its southern boundary. Another access is Formosa airport, situated 112 km (70 miles) away. In the province of Chaco, some 100 km (63 miles) northwestward from Resistencia, stands the Chaco National Park with examples of all characteristic ecosystems of the Eastern Chaco District. The southern and center areas are covered by forests where quebracho colorado trees stand out; the western area represents the typical ecosystem of savannah with Caranday palm-trees; finally, in the southeastern area, the Panza de Cabra Lagoon exhibits an abundant aquatic vegetation. The local fauna consists of a wide variety of mammals, such as howler monkeys but the main attraction for visitors are, no doubts, its widely assorted birds. It is better to avoid the wet season in summer (from December to March) for heat is intense and roads become impassable. In the provinces of Chaco and Santiago del Estero there is a large area called Campo del Cielo (Sky Land), where 13 iron-nickel meteorites have been found. The so-called Chaco meteorite weighs 33,400 kg and stands out among them for being the biggest among the ones ever fell in our country and the third one in the world. ESTANCIAS (RANCHES) The littoral keeps within the entrails of its exuberant jungle, its immeasurable marshes and its gentle slopes, exceptional natural, which creates a favorable environment for alternative tourism, that is why many ranches offer to visitor the chance to have a glimpse to its varied agriculture activity. The melting of cultures living together in these lands, render possible for each ranch or farm to show its characteristic features to visitors.. The country activities join nature and pleasure to escape from the city routine with a big dose of adventure, apart from offering very interesting attractions for specialized Rural Tourism since the region is strongly devoted to agricultural production: citric, forestation (for pulp and timber), yerba mate and tea, tobacco, rice and cattle breeding. 59

60 THE LITTORAL Corrientes The city of Corrientes,located on the banks of the Paraná River, is the outset of assorted circuits of interest for tourists. It has local importance its Carnival celebrations with parades, music, dances and fancy-costumes. The province stands out for its important water resources consisting of an extensive system of rivers, marshes and lagoons, fed by the abundant rains of the region, which cover a surface of 14,900 km 2 (5,750 sq miles), that increases up to 20,000 km 2 (7,700 sq miles) during the season of heavier rains (March, April and September). The biggest concentration of water in the littoral is the Iberá Marshland. Iberá means Shining Waters in Guaraní. The marshland, with an area of more than 1 million hectares, covers more than a third of the surface area of the province of Corrientes and are one of the biggest fresh water reserves in the Americas, and the second largest swampland in South America. Iberá retains a relatively pristine condition due to the natural isolation it was kept in until relatively recent years. This area offers unforgettable landscapes for lovers of off-the-beaten-tract destinations wherein mysterious stories about this magical and fascinating land are constantly related by locals. This reserve is one of the most attractive places in the country for adventure tourism such as photographic safaris, fauna watching, horseback riding, canoeing, fishing and trekking outings. The variety of trees is infinite but the main feature is aquatic vegetation ( irupés royal water lilies, hyacinths, irises and small ferns, among others). The area shelters four of the fauna endangered species in Argentina, declared Natural Monuments of the province: maned wolf or small river wolf, aguará guazú, Pampas deer, and marsh deer, that live together with other species such as two varieties of yacarés (caimans) as well as countless fish and bird species (the area holds more than 350 bird species). The main sur- rounding inhabited areas are Ituzaingó, Colonia Carlos Pellegrini and Mercedes. The best way to explore the reserve is staying at one of the estancias in the area and from there set out on foot, on horseback or in a boat guided by a local expert (almost essential) either park rangers guardafaunas or baqueanos locals. Thus you will get to know the essence of the region. An advice: start very early in the morning. Take your time and enjoy every minute. THE LITTORAL Paraná Entre Ríos province is located to the south of Corrientes province by the Paraná River. The name of this province means between rivers and is due to its geographical position since its coasts are bordered by the Paraná, Uruguay, Guayquiraró and Mocoretá rivers as well as by the Basualdo and Tunas streams. It has picturesque landscapes ideal for the practice of all the aquatic sports. About 1,000,000 hectares are covered with forests and only 10 % of them are artificially cultivated. This is one of the few Argentine provinces that preserves its original fauna such as vizcachas, armadillos and foxes. Some of the most important tourist centers of the province are located on the banks of the Paraná River; the following are the most important among them from north to south: Paraná, capital of the province; Diamante, an important center for the practice of aquatic sports; Victoria, called the city of the seven hills; and Gualeguay. On the Uruguay River, the coast is completely different. The soft undulations of the colorful land with its fine sand beaches and a great amount of birds stand out. A road that runs parallel to the coast of the Uruguay River links the main urban and tourist centers. Concordia, called the Capital of the Citrus, is the most important town of this coast. Large orange and grape plantations surround it. It has numerous beaches, campsites and sporting clubs. One of the most beautiful cities of the province is Colón, which keeps its colonial aspect. Between both cities stand El Palmar National Park Its 8,500 hectares (33 sq miles) protect the last habitat of the once abundant Yatay forest. The Yatay is an endangered palm tree due to the action of the cows. The Park is a place of crystal clear streams and soft soil covered with ferns and palm trees, some of which are over 800 years old. The excavations that were carried out here allowed scientists to discover numerous fossilized specimens. 60

61 THE LITTORAL Puerto Iguazú ARGENTINE FALLS HALF DAY TOUR (basic tour: 6 hours).total distance: 42 Km (26 miles). Itinerary: Departure from the hotel Visitors Center Train Inferior and Superior walkways Train Devil s Throat Return to the hotel. Optional tours:visit to San Martín Island: Embark in Puerto Peligro (Inferior Walkway) San Martín Island Return to Puerto Peligro.Nautical Adventure: (10 minutes): Embarkation at Puerto Peligro Navigation San Martín Bay Bozetti and Tres Mosqueteros Falls. -Great Adventure (50 minutes): Embarkation at Puerto Peligro Navigation to meet the falls disembarkation at Puerto Macuco Yacaratia Path Return to the Visitor s Center (This tour can be done the other way round). BRAZILIAN FALLS HALF DAY TOUR (basic tour: 4 hours).total distance: 50 km (31 miles). Itinerary:Departure from the hotel Tancredo Neves Bridge Migrations Walking tour along the National Park Das Cataratas paths Return to the hotel. Optional tours: -Lunch in Churrascaría in Foz do Iguazú (1 hour). -Visit to Birds Park (about 1 hour). -Iguazú falls over-flight (Brazilian side only) (7 to 10 minutes). -Visit to the city of Foz do Iguazú. -Itaipú Hydroelectric Power Plant (20 km) (2 hours). SAN IGNACIO JESUIT RUINS FULL DAY TOUR (10 hours). Total distance: 520 km (325 miles). Itinerary: Departure from the hotel Mines of Wanda San Ignacio Ruins Lunch Return to the hotel. The Littoral MINES AND PLANTATIONS HALF DAY TOUR (4 hours). Total distance: 90 km (56 miles). Itinerary: Departure from the hotel Mines of Wanda Yerba Mate and Pine plantations Return to the hotel. GREAT ADVENTURE HALF DAY TOUR (2 hours including transfers).total distance: 20 km (12 miles). Itinerary: Departure from the hotel Iguazú National Park Visitors Center Inferior Walkway Embarkation at Puerto Peligro Navigation to approach the falls Disembarkation at Puerto Macuco 4WD drive along the Yacaratia path (7 km) Arrival at the Visitors Center Return to the hotel. Alternative:A similar tour named SAFARI MACUCO can be done on the Brazilian side. It is recommended to take this tour along with either Argentine falls or Brazilian falls, respectively 61

62 MOCONA FALLS FULL DAY TOUR (12 hours). Total distance: 775 km (485 miles). Itinerary: Departure from the hotel El Soberbio 4WD drive Embarkation and navigation along the Uruguay River up to the Moconá Falls Return to the hotel. ITAIPÚ DAM HALF DAY TOUR (5 hours). Itinerary: Departure from the hotel Foz do Iguazú (Brazil) Itaipú Dam Visitors Center Return to the hotel. IGUAZU FOREST HALF DAY TOUR (4 hours). Itinerary: Departure from the hotel by 4WD vehicles Puerto Peninsula Natural Reserve Bird-watching Rappel, Tyrolese, Trekking and Canopy Return to the hotel. THE LITTORAL Posadas IBERA MARSHLANDS FULL DAY TOUR (12 hours). Total distance: 360 km (225 miles). Itinerary: Departure from the hotel Loreto San Juan Lagoon Navigation Caiman-watching Return to the hotel. 62

63 THE LITTORAL Iguazú Falls Sheraton ***** Internacional Iguazú Address: Parque Nacional Iguazú (3370) Puerto Iguazú Iguazú ***** Grand Hotel Address: Ruta 12, km 1640 (3370) Puerto Iguazú Hotels Telephone: (3757) Fax: (3757) Web site: Built in: Remodelled in Location: inside the Iguazú National Park, next to the waterfalls. Accommodation: 181 rooms: 94 overlooking the waterfalls, 83 overlooking the forest and 4 suites overlooking the waterfalls. All rooms are supplied with: hair dryer, telephone with DDI/DDN, individually controlled air conditioning, colour cable TV, safe box, minibar, large windows and balcony. Facilities and services: non smoking rooms and for disabled people, outdoor swimming pool with solarium, illuminated tennis court, games room, gym with sauna, car rental, gift and souvenir shop, parking lot, business center with photocopier, internet and PC's, travel agency, room service. Restaurant: Garganta del Diablo (Devil's Throat) : offers international cuisine and buffet service with local specialties in an elegant setting. Capacity: 160 people. Jeribba Bar : offers exquisite cocktails and snack bar next to the swimming pool. Capacity: 80 people. Lobby Bar : offers snacks, pastries and cocktails. Capacity: 40 people. Meeting facilities: Rooms Theatre School Cocktail Banquets Adelantado Alvar Nuñez Oasis Saint Ignacius I Saint Ignacius II Saint Ignacius III / Amba I & II Paradise Ybira Pita Esturión ***** Address: Tres Fronteras Avenue 650 (N3370AWT) Puerto Iguazu Telephone: (03757) / Web site: Location: 18 km away from the Iguazu falls and 250 metres away from the Hito Tres Fronteras. Telephone: (3757) /50 Fax: (3575) / Web site: Built in: inaugurated the 6th of July, Accommodation: 59 rooms: 40 executive suites, 8 corner suites, 7 junior suites, 4 master suites and 1 presidential suite. 28 executive suites equipped with: king size bed and desk and 12 with queen size bed. Corner suites are supplied with jacuzzi, bath salts, king size bed, stereo, VCR, one bedroom and one dining room. Junior suites are suuplied with: bathroom, jacuzzi and separate shower. Master suites are supplied with three rooms: bedroom, room and dining room. Presidential suite is supplied with a junior suite as anteroom and a main bedroom, a reception room and dining room for 8 people, connected to an executive room with jacuzzi. All rooms are supplied with: bathroom with bath tub, 2 washbasins, scale, hair dryer, amenities, bathrobes and slippers, 2 telephone lines with DDI/DDN, answering machine, controlled hot/cold air conditioning, fan, colour TV with remote control, safe box, minibar, internet connection, 110/220 v. signaled electric connection, central lighting, magnetic lock, pillows available on request (feathers, antialergic and orthopedic), wardrobe and terrace overlooking the swimming pools or the artificial lake. Facilities and services: gym, humid sauna, dressing room, body and facial massage service, manicure and pedicure service, beauty salon, smoke detector, sprinkler, 24 hs room service, babysitter, internet access, translator service. Restaurant: El Jardín : offers dinner service and international menues and regional genders. Distinguished for its spectacular buffets. Capacity: 120 people. La Terraza : offers a sandwich and pasta menu, with barbecue specialties, for the delight of an Argentine 'asado'. Lobby Lounge : offers an international cocktail service, wine menu and light dish menu. Meeting facilities: 2 banquet rooms, The Orchids,140 people, The Iris 120 people. Saint George **** Address: Córdoba Avenue 142 (N3370COO) Puerto Iguazú Telephone: (3757)420631/3 Fax: Web site: The Littoral Built in: 1978 Accommodation: 115 doble and triple rooms, 4 suites and 4 apartments. All rooms are supplied with: telephone with DDN/DDI, air conditioning, colour TV with remote control, safe box, programmed music system, wake up radio clock, minibar. Suites are supplied with living-room and double balcony. Facilities and services: TV room, international and national telefax, swimming pool, large solarium with quincho and bar, sauna, massages, tennis, football, beachvolley and ping-pong courts, natural unevenness park, children games, recreation room, laundry service, outdoor parking, elevators, commercial gallery. Restaurant: Caviar : offers international meals. Capacity: 100 people. La Cascada coffe shop: offers grill and bar service. Capacity: 30 people Swimming pool bar: offers refreshing drinks. Capacity: 60 people. Meeting facilities: Tres Fronteras room. Capacity: 150 people. Arcobaleno room. Capacity: 200 people. Victoria Aguirre room. Capacity: 40 people. Tucan room. Capacity: 250 people. Location: situated in teh hearth of Puerto Iguazu, a 15 minutes away from Cataratas Falls and 500 metres away from the international bridge Tancredo Neves. Accommodation: 65 rooms: 33 standard, 30 top and 2 suites. All rooms are supplied with: hair dryer, air conditionig, telephone with DDN and DDI, cable TV, desk with lamp. Top rooms include minibar. Facilities and services: paddle pinch, two swimming pools, solarium, out parking, safe box in the reception. Restaurant: La Esquina. Offers: international menu combinated with regional meals. El Quincho Bar. Offers: original cocktail, sours and sandwiches. Meeting facilities: one conferece room El Guembe for business and social events and any kind of conferences. Capacity: 150 people 63

64 Hotel Cataratas ***** Address: Ruta 12 Km 4 (3370) Puerto Iguazú Telephone: Fax: Web site: Orquídeas *** Palace Address: Route 12 Km 5 (3370) Puerto Iguazu. Location: surrounded from an exhuberant vegetation a 2 minutes away from Iguazu Casino, tho most important of south america. Accomodation: 102 room: 60 top room, 2 suites junior, 37 master rooms, 3 luxurious suites. All rooms are supplied with: carpeting, individual air conditionig, telephone with DDN and DDI, safe box, radio, minibar, american sommier bed, hair dry. Facilities and services: parking, dry and humid sauna, tropical swimming pool, game room, boutique, mini-golf, basquetball, paddle, tennis and football pitch, business center, internret, gym, jacuzzi, large and comfortable rooms. Restaurant: Cataratas and Jungla Snack Bar. Meeting facilities: convention center for 200 people. Telephone: (3757)-21390/21220 Fax: (3757) Web site: Location: on the falls route and on the edge from the Iguazu National Park and two km from the International Casino. Accomodation: 30 rooms and 5* cabins next to the hotel. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom, individual air conditionig and heating, telephone with DDN and DDI, cable TV, programmmed music system, radio and minibar. Facilities and services: swimming pool, tropical terraces, private security, game and entertainment room with pool table, ping-pong and cards, 24 hs room service. Restaurant: one restaurant and one snak bar. Meeting facilities: comfortable rooms. The Littoral Tropical ***** das Cataratas Address: Ruta Brazilera 468, km 28 Parque Nacional Iguazú, Foz do Iguacu Telephone: (45) Fax: (45) Web site: Built in: October, Location: inside the Iguazú National Park, the only one on the brazilian side opposite the Iguazú Falls. Accommodation: 197 rooms: 98 standard apartments, 52 superiors, 42 deluxe, 3 suites and 2 presidential suites. All rooms are supplied with: telephone with DDI/DDN, air conditioning, central heating, colour TV, safe box, frigobar, curtains, hair dryer (suites & deluxe apartments) and VCR (presidential suites). Facilities and services: swimming pool, tennis, volley and football court, games and study room, parking lot, mini shopping. Restaurant: Itaipu : offers a la carte service or international buffet. Colonial decoration and live music. Taroba Bar : offers drinks, appetizers and live music. Ipe Bar & Grill Meeting facilities: Back up room, next to Iguazú room. Capacity: 15 people. Rooms Buffet Banquet Cocktail Auditorium Don Pedro 180 Iguazú Latour 30 Torrance **** Address: R.Manencio Martins 108 centro, Foz do Iguacu Telephone: (45) Fax: Web site: Location: near the Brazilian Falls. Accommodation: 94 apartments. All rooms are supplied with: air conditioning, telephone with DDI/DDN, colour cable TV, programmed music system and frigobar. Facilities and services: 2 swimming pools, games and relaxation room. Restaurant: 1 restaurant. Meeting facilities: Convention room for 100 people. Eldorado Establecimiento La Alegría Address: Ruta prov. N 17, km 80, El Dorado, (3382) San Pedro, Misiones Telephone: (3751) / Web site: Location: in the heart of the Parananian subtropical forest, inside a multiple use reserve, with an extension of hectares of private property. Accommodation: 2 cottages. 1 cottage is supplied with: 4 rooms, 2 bathrooms, radiators, living room, kitchen and a winter garden for 8 people. The other one is supplied with: 2 bedrooms, bathroom, living room, heating and winter garden for 5 people. Facilities and services: horseback riding, hiking, walks, bikes, henhouse, swimming pool with solarium, orchard, 24 hs hot water. Yacutinga Lodge Address: Lote 7A Colonia Cmdte. Andres Guacurari (3371) Almirante Brown Telephone: (3751) Web site: Built in: January 2000 Location: in the heart of the Misionera forest, surrounded by the Iguazú National Park (Argentina-Brazil). Accommodation: 20 comfortable rustic style rooms, including 6 doubles and 14 triples. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom with 24 hs hot water, chimney and exclusive view of the forest. Services and facilities: swimming pool, living room, two observation towers, hanging bridge, medical assistance and bilingüal guides. Natural Reserve Area: 570 hectares of Misionera forest, 6 km of coast along Iguazú Superior River, 9 interpretation paths, 2 observation points, 1 green house of native plants, 1 port by Iguazú River, visitors center. Restaurant: 1 Restaurant. Capacity: 98 people. 1 barbecue area (outdoors). Capacity: 20 people. 1 Terrace Bar. Capacity 36 people 64

65 Carima **** Hotel & Convention Address: Rodovia Das Cataratas, K10m Foz do Iguazu Bourbon ***** Resort & Convention Address: Rodovia das Cataratas, km 2.5 Foz do Iguacu Telephone: (45) Fax: (45) /6049 Web site: Location: it s situated in a surface of mts and it should be considered a city, because of the streets, avenues, parks, gardens, lakes, theatre and cinema that form it. Accomodation: 420 different category rooms: standard, executive and deluxe. All rooms are supplied with: telephone with DDN and DDI, heating, colour cable TV, hair dryer (executive and deluxe rooms). Facilities and services: 24 hs room service, business center, swimming pool, tennis, basquet and football courts, recreation rooms, billiard s room, sauna, beauty salon, gym. Restaurant: Picadily and Royale restaurant. Capacity: 500 people. They are supplied with experienced cheffs and a kitchen staff of 100 people specialy trained for events, conventions and cocktails. They offer international cuisine and Brazilian meal specialities. Meeting facilities: Room Cocktails Theater Banquet Itamarati Panorama Canaveral Galileo Belvedere Degrade Ágata Perla Jaraguá Guarujá Ubatuba Telephone: (45) Fax: (45) Web site: Location: close to the Brazilian waterfalls and the Foz airport. Accommodation: 298 premier and superior apartments; 13 suites. All rooms are supplied with: bathroom with telephone and hair dryer, telephone with DDI/DDN, answering machine, air conditioning, central heating, colour cable TV, individual safe box, AM/FM music, minibar, PC connection, 2 internet access lines. Facilities and services: business center equipped with computers, fax, photocopiers, internet access, recreation area, hypoalargenic, non smoking elevators, 24 hs room service, massages, circular and Scottish shower, dry and vapour sauna, swimmimg pool with hydromassage, gym, adult and minor swimming pools, tennis courts with trainer, football court, climbing wall. Restaurant: Tarobá and Brasserie Naipi offer international and regional food. Apart from another restaurant and 2 bars. Meeting facilities: convention center for 6000 people. The Littoral Falls Galli *** Address: Avenida Costa e Silva 1602, Foz do Iguacu Telephone: (45) Fax: Web site: Location: privileged, close to the International Station Terminal. Accommodation: 14 suites. All rooms are supplied with: hot/cold air conditioning, telephone with DDI/DDN, colour cable TV, individual safe box, programmed music system, frigobar and internet access. Facilities and services: parking lot with 24 surveillance, swimming pool, 24 hs room service, games room, laundry service, fax, internet. Restaurant: 1 restaurant, cafeteria and bar. Facilities and services: Meeting room. Capacity: 120 people in Auditorium setting. 65

66 THE LITTORAL Posadas Posadas **** Address: Bolívar 1949 (N3300AHO) Posadas Telephone: (03752) Fax: Web site: Hotels Continental *** Address: Bolívar 1879 (N3300AHM) Posadas Telephone: (3752) Fax: Web site: The Littoral Location: in the city center of Posadas, opposite Plaza 9 de Julio. Accommodation: 70 rooms. All rooms are supplied with: telephone with DDI/DDN, air conditioning, colour cable TV, frigobar, PC connection and internet service. Facilities and services: indoor garage, safe box, medical assistance, laundry and dry cleaning service. Restaurant: Snack bar. Capacity: 40 people. Pub. Capacity: 30 people. Meeting facilities: Auditorium room: where meetings, cocktails and trainings are held. Capacity: 40 people. Julio César **** Address: Entre Ríos 1951 (N3300AUO), Posadas Telephone: (3752) Fax: Web site: Location: in the center of the city. Accomodation: 100 rooms, 5 suites and 1 presidential floor. All rooms are supplied with: telephone with DDN and DDI, air conditionig, colour cable TV, minibar. Facilities and services: swimming pool, solarium, gym, parking. Restaurant: one dinning-room and Lobby bar Meeting facilities: Rooms Banquets Conferences Espejos Beige Bordeaux Caoba Presidencial Location: in the center of the city. Accommodation: 186 rooms: 20 suites, 2 presidential rooms, 10 business rooms, 154 standard rooms. All rooms are supplied with: individual air conditionig and heating, telephone with DDN/DDI, cable TV, minibar, modem and PC connection, fax. Facilities and services: laundry and dry cleaning, internet and secretarial service, VCR, 24 hs room sevrice. Restaurant: offers menu a la carte. Capacity: 90 people. Meeting facilities: Rooms Conferences Banquets Cocktails Cabanon Panorama Cathedral Libertador **** Address: San Lorenzo 2208, (N3300MDV) Posadas Telephone: (03752) Fax: Web site: Location: in the center of the city, 400 meters from 9 de Julio Avenue. Accommodation: 31 rooms: 29 doubles / twins and 2 suites. All rooms are supplied with: carpeting, private bathroom, telephone with DDI/DDN, air conditioning, heating, colour cable TV, programmed music system, minibar. Facilities and services: parking lot, room service, safe boxes, medical assistance, night security service, living room with TV, internet. Restaurant: 1 restaurant and snack bar. Capacity: 35 people. Meeting facilities: Meeting room. Capacity: 35 people. Oberá Cabañas del **** Parque Resort Address: Ucrania y Tronador (3360) Oberá Telephone: (3755) Location: next to the Parque de las Naciones, in a priviliged place very near to nature. Accommodation: 48 rooms and cottages equipped for 2, 4, 6 & 8 people. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom, telephone with DDI/DDN, air conditioning, heating, colour TV, safe box and frigobar. The cottages include 2 bathrooms Facilities and services: swimming pool with solarium, parking lot. Restaurant: bar and restaurant. Meeting facilities: 1 conference room. Capacity: 500 people. 66

67 Argentine Northwest Undoubtedly, one of the most attractive regions in the country due to the infinite variety of its scenery: from the colorful slopes of the Andean Cordillera and the gorge, to the whitish dryness of the Puna; from the bright light green of the cropped valleys carved by the patient millenary work of the lively rivers flowing in the Calchaquí Valleys and the lusty green of the subtropical jungles in Tucumán, to the reddish wind-carved rock formations of the Cafayate Gorge. But the landscape is not all. The Northwest is a region inhabited as from immemorial times by different aboriginal peoples. Their influence can be observed even nowadays in several modest but interesting ruins scattered in the region, the astonishing beautiful handicrafts produced according to ancient traditions, in the typical local cuisine and even in the features of its local inhabitants. It is also the region, which has best preserved its colonial heritage, especially in the architecture of some of its cities and small towns, some of which seem to be stuck in time, as if the action of the pristine atmosphere and the dry and fresh air, had contributed to avoid the ageing effect of the years. A region where the sky seems to be closer than anywhere else. Enlarged Area CHILE Socompa San Pedro de Atacama BOLIVIA Catamarca Fiambalá Po. de Jama Po. Sico Antofagasta de la Sierra Tinogasta 51 Belén Jujuy San Antonio de Los Cobres Puerta Tastil San Lorenzo Cachi Molinos Tafí del Valle Andalgalá 9 Villazón La Quiaca Iruya Salta 9 Humahuaca Tilcara San Salvador de Jujuy Termas de Reyes Salta Tarija Aguas Blancas Pumamarca Rosario de Lerma Cafayate T ucumán Banda de Río Salí Río Iruya Metán Rosario de la Frontera La Calendaria San Miguel de Tucumán Simoca 34 Tartagal Puente Internacional la Nueva Orán San Ramón de la Nueva Orán 16 Santiago del Estero Termas de Río Hondo La Banda Santiago del Estero Northwest The main cities that concentrate the tourist and commercial activities of the area are: Tucumán, also called the garden of the republic because of its, walkaways and modern buildings. Salta la linda (the pretty one). Jujuy, the gateway to Bolivia and the most charming indian villages. Valle San José de Vinchina Chilecito La Rioja 40 La Rioja San Fernando del Valle de Catamarca Frías 9 Los Telares Scale in km Río Dulce N 67

68 NORTHWEST San Miguel de Tucumán Northwest The city of San Miguel de Tucumán is the capital of the province. It is an active commercial and industrial center, situated 1,312 km (820 miles) away from Buenos Aires. It has an important National University and an intense nightlife. In the downtown area, the so-called Casa de Tucumán (Tucumán Household) is worth a visit. It was the setting for the General Congress that declared the National Independence on July 9th Every night a light and sound show is offered. It explains the most important events related to this important stage of the Argentine history that took place within the house. Some other important buildings stand out, such as: the Cathedral of San Francisco, opposite to Plaza Independencia (Independence Square); the Iglesia de la Merced (Church of the Mercy) and Bishop Colombres House,where there is a grinding mill and cauldrons that are relics of the first sugar mill that worked in the area at the beginning of the XIX century.in spite of its colonial heritage, San Miguel de Tucumán is a modern city, which leads a Buenos Aires-like lifestyle, quite different to those of the other cities of the Northwest. Villa Nogués, 28 km (17 miles) away from the city, is a charming village settled on the slope of San Javier Hill. Temperature there is about 10º C lower than in the city, that is why the village, as well as the one of San Javier, has been chosen by many well-off families of the city to settle their summer residences. The place is a kind of natural balcony overlooking an area of sugar mills, sugar cane plantations and the city, with its beautiful surroundings. Leaving Tucumán, northbound, the winding road goes along the Quebrada de los Sosa (Sosas River Gorge), where the river runs deep bellow. It is really outstanding its dense tropical forest, quite weird at this latitude. Some kilometers after the gorge has been left beyond, the village of Tafí del Valle appears in the middle of a green transversal valley that spreads at 2,000 m (6,660 feet) above sea level, between the Aconquija Range to the south and the Calchaquí Mounts to the north. The village, located only 107 km (67 miles) from Tucumán, has became a place cherished by wealthy families to built their country houses, to get away from town during the hot days of summer season. Though, before reaching the village, the Parque Los Menhires (Dolmens Park) at El Mollar, is worth a visit. The park gathers dozens of monolithic stone sculptures, up to 3-meter high, which have been found there and in other spots in the Northwest. Also before reaching Tafí del Valle, the huge man-made lake of La Angostura Dam is glimpsed from the road. The village offers good tourist infrastructure so it might be nice to spend a night there. Going on northward, the road climbs up to its highest at Abra del Infiernillo, m. (9,990 feet) above sea level. At this point, the landscape changes dramatically once more, the green valleys and curved fertile hills are left beyond to be suddenly submersed in a highland desert. The next town is Amaicha del Valle,where it is possible to visit the Pachamama Museum (Museum of the Mother Earth), which exhibits aborigine assets. At this spot, the road offers two alternatives: to continue northbound up to Enlarged Area Scale in km N Antofagasta de la Sierra Catamarca Fiambalá Tinogasta Belén Molinos Tafí del Valle Andalgalá 46 Salta 68 Cafayate 9 Metán La Calendaria T ucumán Banda de Río Salí Rosario de la Frontera San Miguel de Tucumán Simoca 157 San Fernando del Valle de Catamarca Santiago del Estero Termas de Río Hondo Embalse Río Hondo La Banda Santiago del Estero 9 Río Dulce Quilmes Ruins or to travel westbound towards the tiny village of Santa María, in the province of Catamarca. Santa María, 180 km (113 miles) from Tucumán, was originally a Franciscan Mission within an area densely populated by aborigines. Thus it is the center of a rich archaeological site, where a certain kind of pottery found was classified as the Santa María Culture, one of the main aboriginal cultures identified in the country. In its main square, there is an archaeological museum where some remains found in the area are exhibited. Numerous interesting places can be visited from there such as: the Burnt Fort, Ampajango and its petrogliphs (20 km (12 miles) away), Loma Rica (with a 3-hour tour) and Cerro Pintado (8 km (5 miles) away). From Santa María, it is possible to continue through the Calchaquí Valleys up to Cafayate, or towards the northwest to Antofagasta de la Sierra, in the Province of Catamarca. Continuing along the Calchaquí Valleys, the road leads to the Quilmes Ruins, an old aborigine settlement that belonged to the quilmes aborigines. The complex, which is a masterpiece of urban and defensive layout, lies on the eastern side of the Sierras de Quilmes, where the remains of the central area spread in the way of a natural amphitheatre. The central citadel is protected by fortresses on both sides. The walls were about 2 to 3 meter thick, the houses were roofed with cactus stems and branches plastered with mud. These ruins go on for several kilometers further to the southeast but numerous vestiges have not been found yet. It is thought that Quilmes, in the old days, housed up to 2,500 aborigine inhabitants, all of which were deported to Buenos Aires by the Spaniards to the place that nowadays holds their name, in the province of Buenos Aires, in a desperate attempt to beat these indomitable people who struggled against white men domination. 68

69 NORTHWEST Salta Once the route has entered Salta, the next place reached is Cafayate, located 1,600 meters (5,300 feet) above sea level. Its main economic activity is wine production, especially white wines. There are several wineries there, such as: Etchart, La Banda and La Rosa (Michel Torino). There are several buildings that are well worth to wander around. It is interesting to visit the Parish Church, one of the first earthquake-proof buildings in the country, the artisans' fair in the central square, the Colonial and Archaeological Calchaquí Museum and the Wine Museum in the Bodega Encantada, where objects related to the history of grape plantations and wine production are exhibited. There are many interesting places in the surroundings: for instance in the San Isidro district, there are rupestrian paintings that can be reached after a 5-hours walk; Cerro La Cruz, with a 3-hour upwards hike; Yacochuya, area of an impressive beauty; the neighboring town of Tolombón with its archaeological ruins; and La Rosa, with its flour mill near the crossroads. From here it is possible to go on northwards towards Cachi along National Route 40 (gravel road), and from there on to Salta, across a series of incredibly changing sceneries, or rather to go directly to Salta, along Route 68 (paved), making some 190 kilometers (120 miles). From Cafayate to Salta, via Cachi. From Cafayate, the route runs northbound almost parallel to the Calchaquí River, which has its sources in the eternal snows of Mount Acay, up north, and which receives the waters of 34 streams with temporary or permanent course. The first town reached is San Carlos,a tiny hamlet of humble adobe houses. Shortly after, the road turns snakier, as it climbs leaving the river bellow. It enters then the impressive Quebrada de INCENTIVES The area is adequate for small incentives, for special people who are interested in getting deeply in touch with the place visited, its people and its local way of life. A place whose charm goes far beyond its beauty. A place that talks with its music, its handicrafts, its cooking. And where the exquisite kindness of its people combined with good tourist infrastructure, guarantee an unforgettable experience. Las Flechas ( Arrows Gorge ), where an amazing forest of eroded sandstone spikes can be appreciated. On the Calchaquí River banks some of the most important aborigine settlements developed. Some of them are still there, as dauntless symbols of an ancient past, still keeping their aborigine population and their old habits: Angastaco, Molinos, Seclantás, Cachi and Payogasta. Angastaco is one of the most picturesque villages in the Calchaquí Valleys, at 2,000 meters (6,660 feets) above sea level and 258 km (160 miles) from Salta. It is an old aborigine settlement, where the Spaniards built their houses later on. Some of them have been preserved due to an urban program devoted to the preservation of colonial buildings. Its most important resource is the production of grape and vino patero (handicraft wine produced by treading the grapes within a cask) in small family wineries. Further north, the road leads to Molinos, a traditional village in the Calchaquí Valley, 210 km from Salta, which preserves important archaeological testimonies. The main attraction of Molinos is its church, built in the XVIII century. Inside, the remains of the last Spanish governor of the province of Salta lie buried. His house, opposite the temple, has been turned into a comfortable inn with all the characteristics of the original building. It is necessary to take some time to admire the breathtaking view of the Calchaquí Valleys. The Finca Colome and its vineyards can be visited from Molinos. Just a few kilometers to Northwest 69

70 Northwest the north, there is a detour to Seclantás.A bridge links ADVENTURE TOURISM the town to the route and its church, Nuestra Señora The whole northwest del Carmen de Seclantás, can be seen at a distance. The area, including also the town has a population of less than 200 inhabitants that Chilean Atacama Desert live in a reduced cluster of houses lined along the main and the Bolivian Puna, street. Onion, paprika and chili pepper are cultivated in are the perfect scenery this area. It is possible to visit Lake Brealito from for Adventure Tourism. It Seclantás or a small village called Colte, reached by a offers a large assortment very precarious road. Some families in this area knit of off-the-beaten-track ponchos on craft looms. It is also interesting to follow landscapes, where signs the old road that skirts the river, towards the south of of civilization are scarce, Seclantás, passing by El Churcal, with its old mill and its adequate for different archaeological site. Back into the main road and going activities such as: on north, the tiny village of Cachi appears at the foothill trekking, climbing, horse of the iced peaks of Mount Cachi (2,280 meters (7,593 riding, rafting, paragliding, parachuting, among Salta. In this area, alfalfa, onions, vegetables and red pep- feet) above sea level). It is located 157 km (98 miles) from others. The region offers pers are grown with artificial irrigation. The red peppers unique places, where are dried in the open air, either on the ground or on the non- conventional roofs of the houses, thus giving a colorful atmosphere to tourists will be able to the town. There is also a small vineyard and a winery. The reach unbelievable Parish Church of Cachi has been declared National sceneries, and mostly Historic Monument; its furniture is made in cardón unexplored areas, such (giant cactus) wood. Next to the church stands the as: the Argentine Archaeological Museum, where numerous pieces Altiplano, the Bolivian brought from Las Pailas, a site near Mount Cachi foothill, Uyuni or the Chilean are exhibited. From Cachi, horse-riding expeditions to Atacama Region, among Mount Cachi foothill are offered as well as to La Poma or others. Payogasta with its numerous pre-columbian constructions. From there, the eastward road known as Recta del Tin-Tin leads to the Parque Nacional Los Cardones (Giant Cactuses National Park). It occupies a large area with an average altitude of 3,500 meters above sea level. Most of its vegetation is semi-arid. The park was created to preserve large communities of big cactaceous plants, endangered species due to the increasing and indiscriminate use of its wood with industrial purposes. There are two species of these huge cactuses in Argentina. One of them is the Trichosereus Terscheckii, with candelabra-like stems that reach a height of 8 meters. It is used to make small objects and crafts. It grows at an altitude of up to 2,000 meters (6,660 feet) above sea level in places such as the Cuesta de Miranda (La Rioja). The other species is the Trichosereus Pasacana, the one that is protected within the National Park, which grows at an altitude that ranges from 2,000 m to 4,500/4,700 m. above sea level. It is smaller than the previous one but equally impressive. Its wood is harder and is used for furniture production or for constructions. These plants may live up to 100 or 200 hundred years. The Park has also contributed to protect typical fauna Enlarged Area CHILE Socompa Scale in km San Pedro de Atacama BOLIVIA N Po. Jama Po. Sico Salta Jujuy San Antonio de Los Cobres Puerta Tastil San Lorenzo Cachi Villazón La Quiaca 9 Iruya Humahuaca Uquía San Salvador de Jujuy Termas de Reyes Salta Tarija Río Iruya Bermejo Aguas Blancas Tilcara 34 Pumamarca Rosario de Lerma 68 Embalse Cabra Corral R. San Francisco Tartagal Puente Internacional la Nueva Orán San Ramón de la Nueva Orán 30 Yacuiba 5 81 Río Bermejo species such as the guanaco, of which just a few ones were left by the time the Park was created. Luckily, it can nowadays be seen running in healthy herds. The road goes on up to Piedra del Molino (Mill Stone), the highest spot in the way, so called because of a large grinding mill stone found there. From there, the road winds down through Cuesta del Obispo (Bishop s Slope), a meandering mountain road, which offers, at each one of its curves, amazing views of the route snaking down slope, and on to Quebrada de Escoipe (Escoipe River Gorge), where the scenery suddenly changes; it turns unexpectedly green, once again, as it skirts the vital river course. From there, the road leads slowly back to modern life. It goes through tobacco crops back to the paved route, already in the final haul to Salta. From Cafayate to Salta along the Commercial Route. Upon departure from Cafayate, to the right, along Route 68, and after crossing an area of large sand dunes that skirt the road, it enters the narrow Valley of Guachipas, best known as Quebrada del Río Las Conchas or Quebrada de Cafayate. It is a narrow valley some 25-kilometer (5 mile) long, that stretches from Tres Cruces to La Punilla. Not only the river, abundant in summer, runs through the canyon, but also the road that links Salta with Cafayate. In the first part of the road, a series of wind-eroded reddish sandstone formations will surprise the traveler at each bend of the road. The most outstanding formations are: Tres Cruces (Three Crosses), Garganta del Diablo (Devil s Throat), El Anfiteatro (The Amphitheater), El Sapo (The Toad), El Fraile (The Friar), El Obelisco (The Obelisk) and Los Castillos (The Castles). From Punilla and through a bridge over the river, there is a secondary road to Corralito, small town with an old chapel. 70

71 Further on, to the right, appears the detour to the Dam and Lake of Cabra Corral.The ideal place for nautical sports; also rafting is available in the Juramento River. The area offers good hotel infrastructure adequate for those that may wish to take advantage of the visit to enjoy the charming and peaceful beauty of the landscape. The route goes on, then, along the Lerma Valley,important productive area of the province, until reaching finally the city of Salta. Capital city of the province of the same name, Salta boasts a touch of elegance that is unmistakable symbol of a sumptuous past that is still alive in its large old manors and flowery patios. Among the big Argentine cities, this is the city where the Spanish influence is best preserved. It is located on the northern extreme of the Lerma Valley, at the foothill of the San Bernardo Hill, 1,280 meters (4,260 feet) above sea level and 1,610 km (1,006 miles) from Buenos Aires. It has many interesting buildings that are worth a visit, such as the Cathedral, dating back to the second half of the XIX century; the Cabildo, built at the same time, which houses the Historic Northwestern Museum; the San Francisco Temple and Convent, whose present building was finished by the mid XVIII century and which was declared Minor Basilica by the Vatican in 1997; San Bernardo Convent,which dates back to the XVI century; and the Handicraft Market where some most assorted examples of the local craftsmen's skills can be appreciated. All around the province of Salta nice pieces of pottery, basketry, knitted 'barracán' fabric, tapestries and 'ponchos' are produced, as well as music instruments. San Bernardo Hill offers, from its summit, a panoramic lookout over the city and the surrounding valley. In the outskirts, the summer village of San Lorenzo shows a variety of smart houses and small remodeled castles submersed in lush vegetation. A Municipal Reserve that preserves the local yunga or Tucumán Forest protects the area. It is ideal for hiking and horse back riding. Salta is, undoubtedly, the main tourist center in the Northwest. From the city, anyone having a few spare days can take the most important one-day tours, to places such as Cafayate, Cachi, the Humahuaca Gorge, Cabra Corral, or the Train to the Clouds. Train to the Clouds The Train to the Clouds is a fully equipped train with dining car, bar, post office, guide, first-aid ward and stewardess leaves Salta Station at 7 o'clock in the morning for an unforgettable trip along the C-14 section of the General Belgrano Railway, better known worldwide as the Train to the Clouds. It is a monumental engineering masterpiece finished in From Salta to the Viaduct of La Polvorilla, there are 214 km (135 miles); the train makes its way across numerous bridges, tunnels and viaducts. It does not make use of cogs; not even for the steepest parts; it uses switchbacks, spirals and loops, on instead, in order to climb just a few meters. During the first part of the trip, the train goes through small villages such as: San Antonio, Cerrillos and Rosario de Lerma, with its extensive tobacco plantations. It finally arrives at Campo Quijano (1,520 m (455 feet) above sea level), which is called the gateway to the Andes since soon afterwards, the train reaches the Quebrada del Toro (Bull River s Gorge), which is a really pathway between the flatlands and the Puna. The name of the gorge comes from turu, which has nothing to do with a bull (Toro, in Spanish), but is the quechua word for mud, due to the mass of mud, lime and stones that the water carries downstream during the summer rains. Along this gorge, the Train climbs an average of 25 meters per kilometer (130 feet per mile) done up to Puerta Tastil, where it turns towards the northeast. On the other margin of the river, the road that links Salta with San Antonio de los Cobres follows the same direction up to Puerta Tastil, where it branches off up to San Antonio de los Cobres, passing by Santa Rosa de Tastil ESTANCIAS In the vicinities of Salta, there is a number of estancias, also called fincas, belonging to the important traditional families of the local aristocracy. Large ranches devoted to agriculture and cattle breeding, most of them still at work in its traditional activities, that nowadays open their doors to welcome visitors providing the warm welcoming and careful attention that the norteños know well how to offer. These ranches have important main houses, tastefully ornate following the local traditions fashion, where visitors will enjoy a comfortable stay, in touch with nature and rural life, and enjoying also the exquisite specialties of local cuisine. On horseback or on foot, a visit to one of these ranches will make it possible to get in touch with the modern rural work, which still keep traits of the old gaucho customs. (3,000 meters 10,990 feet) above sea level) in the Las Cuevas River Gorge. Here, there is an interesting archaeological site: the remains of an old aborigine settlement mysteriously disappeared. The ruins can only be visited if the trip is done by route, since the train does not stop there. The Train goes directly on to San Antonio de Los Cobres, but it will stop there only in the way down, since it first continues to the Viaduct of La Polvorilla,probably the most famous image of this impressive trip, a photograph that has traveled the world. La Polvorilla is a deep gorge. The need to avoid this obstacle in the road, led to the construction of the viaduct, through which the train crosses the abyss, at a height of 70 meters (233 feet) from the base. In this point the train reaches its maximum altitude: 4,197 Northwest 71

72 Northwest meters (13,976 feet) above sea level. The passenger will undoubtedly feel suspended in the air, in the unbelievable silence of the Puna. But the attraction of the train does not end in its engineering value or in its fantastic scenery; it goes far beyond that. It is impossible to reach the place without getting involved in the emotion produced by weather-beaten local people, their welcoming waves and their overwhelming desire to offer their crafts and home-made sweet fancies. From there the train starts its way back to Salta, undoing the way downward. But it will stop first at San Antonio de los Cobres, named like this because of the great amount of this metal ( cobre is the Spanish word for copper) that abounds in the surrounding mountains. It is an old mining settlement where copper, silver and other minerals were extracted. It is situated 196 km (122 miles) from Salta by train and 163 km (100 miles) along the route, in the middle of a wide depression that goes along San Antonio de los Cobres River, which finally flows into the Salinas Grandes (Jujuy). The iced peaks of Mount Acay can be seen from the village and it is possible to climb the northern slope of the national route towards Abra de Acay, which offers an extraordinarily beautiful panoramic view. It may also be interesting to visit the hot springs of Pompeya (9 km away (6 miles)) and the Concordia Silver Mine (18 km (11 miles) away). From San Antonio de los Cobres, it is possible to return to the city of Salta or to continue to Chile through some of the international mountain crossings. The most important one is Paso Sico (4,092 meters (13,600 feet) above sea level), through which most of the commercial traffic to Chile is canalized. The other important one is Paso Jama (4,230 meters (14,090 feet) above sea level), in Jujuy, which is reached passing by Salinas Grandes (3,368 meters (11,215 feet) above sea level). The salt pits are large deposits, rich in borax and sodium. Common table salt is extracted, from April to November, with oldfashioned methods. Nearby, the former pass of Huaytiquina, that used to link Salta with Antofagasta (Chile), is one of the oldest routes that gained importance during the XIX century, when mining activities in the Atacama Desert rocketed. In 1920, a vehicular road was built, when a high-concentration iron vein was discovered on Laco Volcano slopes, in Chile. This iron would be later on used by Altos Hornos Zapla, the Argentine iron and steel processing plant, inaugurated in Jujuy in Haytiquina was later on replaced by another pass called Paso de Jama. Both Sico and Jama are the border crossings used in the way to San Pedro de Atacama. An alternative for those that arrived in San Antonio de los Cobres, either by train or by car, is to return to Salta or to go on to Jujuy, along a different route, crossing the Salinas Grandes and the Cuesta de Lipán (Lipan s Slope), down to Purmamarca. A local company, Movitrack,offers this circuit, with its specially designed trucks, that allow passengers to enjoy incredibly beautiful trips, watching wild animals, the changing vegetation of the different areas and landscapes that are often inaccessible for conventional excursions. All of that explains the name of Safari that labels their journeys. They offer several itineraries with one common motto: never to come back along the same route. Northwards from Salta, both routes 9 and the socalled Camino de Cornisa lead to San Salvador de Jujuy. National Route 9 is not particularly interesting, but it is the best for those that are in a hurry. The Camino de Cornisa (Mountain Road), instead, is much more attractive. It runs along a valley that was the hub of communications with the Alto Peru (Bolivia, at present) in colonial times. The road goes through Santa Laura Pass, skirted by lush subtropical vegetation, and it continues towards the north bordering Los Sauces River, one of the most difficult parts of the road, finally going into the old path of carts coming from San Salvador de Jujuy. At this spot, all passengers were forced to carry on to the Altiplano on mule back. At present, it takes one hour and a half to reach San Salvador the Jujuy by this route. NORTHWEST Jujuy It is the capital of the province of Jujuy. It was named like this after Xuxuyoc, an Inca officer that was supposed to live here. The city is located 1,260 meters above sea level and 1,660 km (1,038 miles) from Buenos Aires, on the northern extreme of a large valley at the foothill of the Sierras de Zapla. The city, built on a rugged terrain and crossed by the Xibi and Grande rivers, keeps only a few colonial buildings. Those that are worth a visit are: the Cathedral, the Cabildo and Police History Museum, the Government House, San Francisco Church and Santa Barbara Chapel, the oldest standing temple in the city. 22 km (14 miles) north the hot springs called Termas de Reyes, are located at a height of 1,800 meters (5,994 feet) above sea level. The therapeutic features of the waters are known from immemorial times; the strongly mineralized waters flow at temperatures that range from 52 to 58º C. There is a nice hotel set in a landscape of extraordinary beauty and lush vegetation. From there, a mountain road leads to Lagunas de Yala, 26 km (16 miles) from Jujuy. A set of lagoons surrounded by dense alder woods, which belong to the Provincial Reserve of Yala Ground. The place is ideal for camping and hiking; climbing a short steep slope, you 72

73 reach a lookout with a very nice panoramic view. At an altitude of 2,200 m (7,326 feet) above sea level there is a trout breeding station. Some 39 km (24 miles) north from San Salvador de Jujuy, the Humahuaca Gorge appears as a deep fissure in the Altiplano, caused by the eroding action of the Río Grande. The gorge runs parallel to the river course and to Route 9, for 170 km (106 miles), though usually visitors do not go further than Humahuaca. The gorge cradles several hamlets, still inhabited by Inca descendants, who keep lots of their ancestors rites such as the cult to the Pachamama (Mother Earth), and to honor her they build apachetas, small pyramids of stones, where they make their offerings to the Mother Earth: cigarettes, alcohol and coca leaves. Another important popular festivity is the Carnival, celebrated in different ways in many of the surrounding towns. On entering the gorge, the first towns are: Leon and Volcán and further on, Tumbaya, 51 km (32 miles) from San Salvador de Jujuy. Tumbaya has one of the oldest churches of the gorge, at a foothill. The typically colonial building, devoted to Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria de Tumbaya, dates back to the XIX century and was declared National Historic Monument. The next town is Purmamarca,situated only 4 km (2,5 miles) away from the main route. The village has Spanish origins and is surrounded by fertile lands even if its name suggests the opposite: Purmamarca means barren land in Quechua. It has the layout that is typical of the Spanish settlements with the church in front of the main square. Also in front of the square is the Cabildo, a small colonial style building, which was used as prison and police station in the past and which nowadays houses an artisans' market, that spreads also over the square and the surrounding shops, bestowing their colors to the town. However, the most important attraction in Purmamarca is, undoubtedly, the Seven-Colored Hill. The colored slopes are the result of layers of mineral sediments dating back to the Mesozoic (geological period that finished 65 million years ago, when dinosaurs disappeared) and the Tertiary (period when the Andes were formed). On August 30th, the Celebration of Santa Rosa de Lima is held and on February 10th, that of the Pachamama. If you have some spare time in Purmamarca, it is interesting to do a short hike called la Vuelta a Los Colorados (The Trip around the Red Hills). A fascinating walk among reddish rock formations that show different colors as the sun strikes them. Shortly after, the main route reaches the tiny village of Maimará,where a colorful formation appears on the rock slope of the hill, looking as a Painter s Palette, and so it is called by the locals. The view is better in the afternoon, since at that time the sunlight bestows an additional charm to the scenery. Tilcara,located 84 km (52 miles) from San Salvador de Jujuy, at an altitude of 2,460 m (8,200 feet) above sea level, is another typical village, founded around the year It is well known for the fortress, called Pucará de Tilcara, strategically settled on a near hill. Pucará means stronghold in Quechua. The ruins of the ancient site, partially rebuilt, can be visited. It was the first of four fortified settlements built by the primitive inhabitants of the Humahuaca Gorge by the course of the river. On the east side of the hill, there is a necropolis with a truncated pyramid-shaped monument on top. The mortal remains of two famous archaeologists that worked on the reconstruction of this site are buried there. At the foot of the Pucará Hill, there is an interesting Botanical Garden where numerous typical plants, both of the gorge and the Puna, grow. In the surroundings, there are numerous sites since this part of the gorge was densely populated before the arrival of the Spaniards. The presence of the coyas (descendants of the Incas) provides a colorful aspect to the streets of the village. It is also interesting to visit the Provincial Archaeological Museum, opposite to the main square, which owns varied items of pre-columbian art, coming from what is nowadays territory of Argentina, Perú, Bolivia and Chile. There are some plain hotels, inns and bungalows as well as camping sites. From here it is possible to walk to Garganta del Diablo, a deep gap located 7 km (4 miles) from the beginning of the Huasamayo River, from where there is a wonderful view of the Humahuaca Gorge. Several festivities are held in the village such as the Tilcareño in January, the Carnival in February and the Inti Raimi Festival in July, celebrated with fire-works in the period when animals give birth. Northwest 73

74 Northwest Northwards from Tilcara, the tiny hamlet of Huacalera, that borrowed its name from an old local estancia, developed around the Monterrey Hotel, founded by a Spanish businessman at the beginning of the XX century. The hotel was very successful for a while, till the route was paved and the shortened journey from San Salvador de Jujuy to Humahuaca did no longer require to stop there. Nearby, a monolith points out the Tropic of Capricorn, indicating the place where the sun reaches its vertical position during the summer solstice of the southern hemisphere. Further on, Uquía,boasts one of the oldest temples among the town of the gorge: an old colonial style church. There are also many archaeological sites in the area, such as: Peñas Blancas and the Pucará de Calete.The road finally leads to Humahuaca,located at an altitude of 2,945 meters (9,800 feet)above sea level on the right bank of the Río Grande, 126 km (78 miles) from the capital of the province and 1,833 km (1,146 miles) from Buenos Aires. It was an old settlement of the Omaguaca aborigines. Its Spanish origins date back to the beginning of the XVII century. It small adobe houses and narrow cobble-stoned streets make it a typical town of the Puna. Around the main square, all the most important constructions gather: the Town Hall (former Cabildo), the Cathedral and the Monument to the Independence Wars. Other places that worth a visit are the Ramoneda Museum and the Regional and Folk Museum,which show aspects of the life and customs of the local inhabitants. Next to the railway station, there is a picturesque market of regional products. 77 Km (48 miles) northeast from Humahuaca, the town of Iruya (Province of Salta), is cradled among mountains, literally stuck in time. Its inhabitants, mostly reticent to face outsiders, still commercialize their products by bartering with the neighbors and refuse any progress provided by civilization. Iruya offers one of the most beautiful and untouched images in the Argentine Northwest. Just a few travelers dare to go further north, though the experience of piercing the Puna may become indelible. The Puna is an arid plateau, that stretches at an altitude that ranges from 2,500 to 4,500 meters (8,300 to 15,000 feet) above sea level, where the infinitude of the vast landscape matches with the pristine sky and the purest air in the world, where the sun shines year-round and the slow and quite pace of people s life seem to elapse unnoticed. This is the road that passing by Abra Pampa, leads to La Quiaca, 3,442 meters (11,460 feet) above sea level, and 300 Km (1,255 miles) from Jujuy and 2,007 Km (1,255 miles) from Buenos Aires. A hybrid frontier land, opposite to the Bolivian city of Villazón. Only 16 Km (10 miles) east from La Quiaca, is the tiny settlement of Yavi, a small oasis submersed in the dryness of the Altiplano. A detour to the west, from Abra Pampa, leads to the Monumento Natural Laguna de los Pozuelos,where one can see huge flocks of pick Andean flamingos and herds of vicuñas peacefully grazing, alien to any threat in this inaccessible land. Only 100 Km (63 miles) away from San Salvador de Jujuy, the Parque Nacional Calilegua, is the most visited of all the national parks in the Northwest. It was created to protect an ecosystem of yunga (or Tucuman Jungle). It has an impressive biodiversity, since as the terrain goes up steep, different vegetation formations appear. It also has several fauna species such as the wild boar and the jaguar. NORTHWEST Catamarca The capital of the province is the city of San Fernando del Valle de Catamarca, one of the most ancient cities in the country, definitively founded, after several attempt, in Its central district, framed by four wide avenues, still shows its red-roofed colonial constructions with large entrance gates and sunny courtyards. Its main square is remarkable for its beautiful and assorted tree species. It offers also some other interesting places: the Archaeological Calchaquí Museum, in the San Francisco Convent; the Cathedral that houses the honored icon of the 'Virgen del Valle' (the Virgin of the Valley), which attracts pilgrims from the whole country and even from the neighboring countries. One of the best-known surrounding attractions is 'Cuesta del Portezuelo' (Portezuelo Slope); located 17 km (11 miles) from the capital. It climbs Mount Ancasti slopes from where an extraordinary view of the whole central valley is obtained. The circuit can also include the Church of 'La Chacarita', the Virgin's Road, 74

75 the Monument of Felipe Varela and the Church of San Isidro. Numerous relics of pre-hispanic settlements have been found around the province. Some of those precious findings are available in many local museums and in some archaeological sites that can be visited nearby, such as Andalgalá and Belén. In Andalgalá,situated 200 km (125 miles) away from the city, the Inca fortress called 'Pucará del Aconquija',which dates back to 1658, is well worth a visit. 57 km to the north the Capillitas Mines are also interesting. The typical semi-precious stone, called 'rodocrosita' (pink stone widely used for handicrafts) is extracted from these mines. 85 km (53 miles) to the west, up the 'Cuesta de Belén' (Belén's Slope'), the small village of Belén lies by the side of the river of the same name, submersed in a mountain scenery of great beauty. It is the birth town of very typical loom-woven garments produced with vicuña, llama and sheep wool. They are remarkable for its skillful confection, design and knitting techniques transmitted by local women generation after generation. It is also worth a visit the Archaeological Museum Condor-Huasi, since it houses a rich collection of stone items and pottery that are fine examples belonging to some of the aborigine cultures Ayampitín, Belén, Ciénaga, Aguada and Cóndor Huasi. Among the various archaeological findings done in the vicinities, it is important to mention the Inca ruins of the 'Shincal de Quimivil'.The Incas inhabited the area from 1470 to The urban layout is similar to that of Cusco, in accordance to its status as provincial capital of this vast aborigine empire. The site, discovered in 1981, spreads over 21 hectares (52 acres) where remains of different constructions can be seen. One of the most important findings has been a section of the Inca Trail, as well as ruins of aqueducts, defensive walls, ceremonial sites, stone stairs, patios, and surveillance turrets. In 1535, the Spanish conquerors, after dominating the Incas of what is nowadays Peru, went on southwards, heading to Chile, and taking advantage of the Inca Trail, that enters the Province of Catamarca from Salta and Tucumán, following the Calchaquí Valley. It is remarkable there the Yokavil Valley, also known as Santa María's Valley. Several other pre-columbian settlements can be visited over there, such as: the 'Fuerte Quemado' (Burnt Fort), the 'Pucará de Loma Rica' (Loma Rica Fortress) and the 'Pucará de los Cardones' (Fortress of the Cardones). The former are some instances that proudly reflect the spirit of a culture that is still alive in the everyday life and customs of the current inhabitants of these lands. The last town before reaching the limit of the Province of Tucuman is Santa María, interesting for its paprika mills, crafted wines, raisins, 'arropes', grapes, and traditional knitted garments and colorful tapestries. It is one of the towns in the province where the Carnival and 'Pachamama' (Mother Earth) celebrations are held more enthusiastically and inkeeping with the ancestral aborigine habits. A long way further north, the tiny hamlet of Antofagasta de la Sierra is submersed in the core of the Catamarca's Puna, at a height of 3,340 meters (11,123 feet) above sea level. The region is worth staying a few days in order to get in touch with the unbelievable surrounding sceneries: the Antofagasta and La Alumbrera volcanos; the Antofagasta Lagoon, where an important colony of pink flamingoes is settled; the abundant geogliphs printed in the volcanic lava fields spreading near the town, as well as a few rupestrian paintings. It is also interesting to pay a visit to the Mankind Museum. Another full day circuit includes the Galán Volcano (5,912 m/19,687 ft.), with its 40-km (25 mile) wide crater which is the widest one in the world; the 'Salar del Hombre Muerto' (Dead Man's Salt Pit); the old Inti-Huasi gold mines, that were already exploited by the Incas and later on by the Spaniards; and finally the 'Reserva Natural Laguna Blanca' (White Lagoon Natural Reserve), crowded with pink flamingoes or 'parimas'. The region gathers 30% of the worldwide population. It will take another full day to visit the punice stone quarry at Carachi Pampa, which forms a large rocky wall. It is located 52 km away from Antofagasta. The surroundings are plentiful of llamas, vicuñas and sheep which share the life of this small adobe houses village, where the local inhabitants seem to live an old life, at a lower pace, faithful to their ancestral customs, as if it were stuck in time. Northwest 75

76 NORTHWEST San Miguel de Tucumán TUCUMÁN CITY TOUR HALF DAY TOUR (3 hours). Itinerary: Departure from the hotel 9 de Julio Park Colombres Bishop house San Martín Theatre Casino Independence Square Government House Historic House Return to the hotel. SAN JAVIER AND VILLA NOGUES HALF DAY TOUR (4 hours). Itinerary: Departure from the hotel Yerba Buena Marcos Paz La Rinconada San Pablo Aconquija Park San Javier Hill Villa Nogués Return to the hotel. Northwest TAFI DEL VALLE AND QUILMES RUINS FULL DAY TOUR (8 hours). Itinerary: Departure from the hotel Lules Famaillá Acheral Sosas River Gorge La Angostura Dam Tafí del Valle Abra del Infiernillo Amaicha del Valle Quilmes Ruins Return to the hotel. Optional: lunch. EL CADILLAL DAM HALF DAY TOUR (3 hours). Itinerary: Departure from the hotel Arsenal Miguel de Azcuénaga El Cadillal Dam Benedictine Convent Return to the hotel. 76

77 NORTHWEST Salta SALTA CITY TOUR HALF DAY TOUR (3 hours). Itinerary: Departure from the hotel San Francisco Church San Bernardo Convent Cathedral Monument to Güemes San Bernardo Hill Catholic University Handicraft Market Return to the hotel. QUEBRADA DEL TORO AND ROSARIO DE LERMA HALF DAY TOUR (3 hours). Itinerary: Departure from the hotel Limache Hippodrome Campo Quijano Río Blanco Rosario de Lerma Cerrillos Return to the hotel. CACHI FULL DAY TOUR (7 hours) Total distance traveled: 320 km (200 miles). Itinerary: Departure from the hotel El Carril Los Laureles Gorge Escoipe Gorge Cuesta del Obispo Piedra del Molino Recta de Tin Tin Los Cardones National Park Cachi Return to the hotel. Optional: lunch. Northwest CAFAYATE FULL DAY TOUR (12 hours). Total distance traveled: 486 km (304 miles). Itinerary: Departure from the hotel Lerma Valley Quebrada de Cafayate Cafayate Wine cellar Return to the hotel. Optional: lunch. CABRA CORRAL DAM HALF DAY TOUR (5 hours). Itinerary: Departure from the hotel Cerrillos La Merced El Carril Coronel Moldes Lerma Valley Cabra Corral Dam Return to the hotel. 77

78 HUMAHUACA GORGE FULL DAY TOUR (12 hours). Total distance traveled: 520 km (325 miles). Itinerary: Departure from the hotel Commercial Route Pampa Blanca San Salvador de Jujuy Tumbaya Purmamarca Maimará Tilcara Uquía Humahuaca Camino de Cornisa (Mountain road) Return to the hotel. Optional: lunch. SAN ANTONIO DE LOS COBRES FULL DAY TOUR (12 hours). Total distance traveled: 500 km (313 miles). Itinerary: Departure from the hotel Del Toro Gorge Campo Quijano Santa Rosa de Tastil Paso Muñano San Antonio de los Cobres Return to the hotel. TRAIN TO THE CLOUDS FULL DAY TOUR (14 hours). Total distance traveled: 600 km (375 miles). Itinerary: Departure the hotel General Belgrano Station Lerma Valley Del Toro Gorge San Antonio de los Cobres La Polvorilla Viaduct Return to the hotel. Argentine MOVITRACK SAFARI TO THE CLOUDS FULL DAY TOUR. Itinerary: Salta Quebrada del Toro San Antonio de los Cobres Route 40 Salinas Grandes Cuesta de Lipán Purmamarca Salta. Lunch Included. MOVITRACK SAFARI TO THE CLOUDS WITH HUMAHUACA TWO-DAY TOUR. 2 DAYS / 1 NIGHT Itinerary: Salta San Antonio de los Cobres Salinas Grandes Purmamarca Tilcara (overnight) Humahuaca Visit to a farm Salta. Optional: full board. MOVITRACK SAFARI CACHI / MOLINOS FULL DAY TOUR. Itinerary: Salta Cuesta del Obispo Los Cardones National Park Cachi Molinos Seclantás Los Colorados Salta. Optional: lunch. Departure upon request. 78

79 MOVITRACK SAFARI CACHI / QUILMES / CAFAYATE TWO-DAY TOUR. 2 DAYS / 1 NIGHT. Itinerary: Salta Cuesta del Obispo Los Cardones National Park Cachi Molinos Quilmes (overnight) Cafayate Visit to a farm Salta. Optional: full board. MOVITRACK SAFARI IRUYA TWO-DAY TOUR. 2 DAYS / 1 NIGHT. Itinerary: Salta Mountain Road Purmamarca Humahuaca Iruya (overnight) Uquía Salta. Optional: full board. MOVITRACK GRAN SAFARI ATACAMA TWO-DAY TOUR. 2 DAYS / 1 NIGHT. Itinerary: Salta San Antonio de los Cobres Paso Sico Chilean frontier San Pedro de Atacama (3 nights) Salar de Atacama Laguna del Salar Flamingoes Tatio Geysers Moon Valley Paso de Jama Purmamarca Salta. Optional: full board. Northwest NORTHWEST Jujuy CITY TOUR AND TERMAS DE REYES HALF DAY TOUR (3 hours) Itinerary: Departure from the hotel Lavalle Museum Flag s Room Cathedral San Martín Park Reyes River Gorge Termas de Reyes Hotel (Hot Spring waters) Yala Lagoons Return to the hotel. LEDESMA SUGAR MILL AND CALILEGUA NATIONAL PARK FULL DAY TOUR (12 hours). Total distance traveled: 324 km. Itinerary: Departure from the hotel Alto La Viña Las Lajitas La Mendieta San Pedro Fraile Pintado Ledesma Sugar Mill Calilegua Return to the hotel. 79

80 IRUYA TWO DAYS TOUR. Total distance traveled: 380 km. Itinerary: Departure the hotel Purmamarca Tilcara Humahuaca Abra del Cóndor Iruya (overnight) Return to the hotel. LA QUIACA / YAVI / VILLAZON TWO DAYS TOUR. Total distance traveled: 595 km. Itinerary: Departure from the hotel Reyes Yala Posta de Lozano León Volcano Tumbaya Purmamarca Maimará Tilcara Huacalera Uquía Humahuaca Tres Cruces Abra Pampa La Quiaca Yaví Pass to Villazón (Bolivia) Return to the hotel. 80

81 NORTHWEST Tucumán Hotels Gran Hotel ***** del Tucumán Address: Av.Soldati 380 (T4000HQQ) San Miguel de Tucumán Garden Park **** Address: Av.Soldati 330 (T4000HQQ) San Miguel de Tucumán Telephone / Fax: (0381) Telephone: (0381) Fax: (0381) Web site: Location: opposite Parque 9 de Julio, with easy access to the airport and routes, near the commercial and financial center and points of touristic interest. Accommodation: 150 rooms, diplomatic suites and wedding suites. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom, telephone with DDI/DDN, central air conditioning and heating, colour cable TV and minibar. Facilities and services: 24 hs room service, swimming pool, solarium, sauna and Finnish bath, equipped gym, beauty salon, massages, babysitter, medical emergency, laundry, dry cleaning, garages with valet parking, safe box, business center. Meeting facilities: 9 rooms for meetings, parties, seminars, congresses, conventions and shows, with advanced design, the highest service and security level and the most complete equipment. Capacity: 30 to 1500 people. VIP and multiple rooms. Rooms Banquet Cocktail School Theatre Del Parque Aconquija / Los Lapachos 170/ /450 Mirador 150/ / Galaxy /200 Imperio 200/ / Web site: Built in: inaugurated May 25th, Location: opposite Parque 9 de Julio, near the commercial and financial center and the spots of touristic interest. Accommodation: 30 twin rooms: 18 overlooking the hill and 12 overlooking the park, 44 queen: 18 overlooking the hill and 26 overlooking the park and 4 suites. All rooms are supplied with: individually controlled air conditioning and heating, colour TV, digital safe box, frigobar and internet access. Facilities and services: room service, sauna, gym, solarium, swimminh pool, laundry, smoke and fire detector, panoramic elevator, garage, business center, internet, 24 hs emergency medical service, 24 hs security, massages, hairdresser service, babysitter, multilingual staff (French, Portuguese, English, Italian). Restaurant: 1 restaurant: offers exquisite and varied dishes. Capacity: 110 people (varies according to setting). Meeting facilities: VIP room: private room with boardroom table for business meetings or training in a calm, comfortable and effective atmosphere. It offers the most modern technical support and the availability of all the necessary resources for business encounters. Room Theatre Banquet Cocktail Le Parc / Los Tarcos 500/ / /220 Del Cerro / Los Sauces 120/60 100/30 130/70 Northwest Presidente **** Address: Monteagudo 249 (T4000ICE) San Miguel de Tucumán Telephone: (0381) Fax: Swiss Hotel **** Metropol Address: 24 de Septiembre 524 (T4000CNL) San Miguel de Tucumán Web site: Built in: Remodelled throughout the year Location: in a low transitable commercial area, a few blocks from the bank area and the Plaza Independencia. Accommodation: 50 rooms including singles, doubles, triples, apartments and suites. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom, telephone with DDI/DDN, air conditioning, heating, colour cable TV, radio, frigobar, safe box, fax and internet connection. Facilities and services: room service, 2 indoor parking lots, protected medical area, laundry service, safe box, terrace with swimming pool and swimming pools for children and adults, solarium, sauna bath. Restaurant: snack bar and cafeteria. Meeting facilities: Boardroom, capacity: 10 people. Conference room, capacity: 300 people. Meeting room, capacity: 50 people. Events room, capacity: 200 people. Telephone: (0381) Fax: Web site: Built in: Location: in the city center, a few meters from the main square, the Government House and the main public organisms. Accommodation: 75 rooms including singles, doubles, triples, junior suite and diplomatic suite. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom, telephone with DDI/DDN, individual air conditioning, cable TV, minibar, programmed music system and with POP account. Facilities and services: non smoking rooms, 24 hs ADSL internet, permanent medical service, 24 hs room service, garage with valet parking, laundry and dry cleaning service, swimming pool, solarium, business center, telecabins. Restaurant: Swiss Gourmet. Meeting facilities: organization of business events and special room setups. Anfiteatro. Capacity: 120 people in Auditorium setting. Independencia. Capacity: 120 people in banquet setting. Congreso. Capacity: 30 people in boardroom setting. Petit Congreso : ideal for business interviews and inquiries. Libertad : for business or board meetings. 81

82 Del Jardín **** Address: Laprida 463 (T4000IFI) San Miguel de Tucumán Telephone / fax: (0381) Web site: Mirador del Tafí *** Address: Ruta Provincial 307, km 61.2 (4137) Tafí del Valle - Tucumán Telephone/Fax: (03867) /243 Web site: Northwest Built in: Location: in the city's microcenter, near banks, cinemas, theatres, the main square, the Historic House and the Casino; 10 km from the airport and a few blocks from the bus Terminal. Accommodation: 122 double rooms, 5 junior suites and 2 diplomatic suites with independent meeting areas. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom, telephone with DDI/DDN, hot/cold air conditioning, cable TV and programmed music system. Facilities and services: safe box, room service, swimming pool and solarium, laundry, central air conditioning, garage, sauna bath, medical emergency service. Restaurant: 1 snack bar: offers daily buffet breakfast. Meeting facilities: Rooms Conference Banquet Reception Auditoruim Laprida / Piano Bar 140/ /140 Tafí del Valle Carlos V *** Address: 25 de Mayo 330 (T4000IIH) Tucumán Telephone: (0381) Fax: Web site: Location: a few meters from the main square and the city center. Accommodation: 70 single, double and triple rooms, apartments for 4 and 5 people. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom, telephone with DDI/DDN, hot/cold air conditioning, cable TV and frigobar. Facilities and services: safe box, indoor parking lot, 24 hs medical emergency service, laundry and dry cleaning express service, room service, fax, banquet services. Restaurant: 1 restaurant and 1 bar. Meeting facilities: rooms for conferences and conventions and meeting rooms for executives. Capacity: 250 people. Tafí Hotel *** Address: Av.Belgrano 177 (T4140BUB) Tafí del Valle, Tucumán Telephone: (03867) Fax: Web site: Location: in the majestic Calchaquies Valleys, 1 km away from the city center. Accommodation: 32 rooms. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom, telephone with DDN/DDI, heating, cable TV with remote control, programmed music system. Facilities and services: heating, fax, 24 hours room service, living-room, recreation room, galleries, terraces, watchtower, gardens, parking, children games. The hotel's total surface is m 2. Restaurant: 1 restaurant. Offers regional and international delicious meals. 1 coffe shop. Meeting facilities: El Lago, capacity: 40 people. Los Alisos, capacity: 80 people. Hostería *** Lunahuana Address: Av. Gobernador Critto 540 (T4140ADR) Tafí del Valle, Tucumán Telephone / fax: (03867) /60 Web site: Built in: Inaugurated in Enlarged in Location: priviliged, in the heart of Tafí del Valle, which allows to admire the imposing valley. Accommodation: 32 comfortable rooms: 4 double quintuples, 2 simple quadruples, 8 double quadruples and 18 double triples. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom with bath tub and hair-dryer, telephone with DDI/DDN, heating, cable TV, digital programmed music system, fire alarm and emergency light. Facilities and services: playroom, living-room overlooking the valley, tennis and football 5 courts, minigym, natural parking area solarium, indoor parking lot. Restaurant: 1 bar-restaurant. Capacity: 100 people. Meeting facilities: 1 event and convention room. Capacity: 200 people. Parador Ruinas de Quilmes Address: Tapices Cruz (4137) Amaicha del Valle, Tucumán Telephone/Fax: (03892) Location: in the city center, near the main Avenue. Accommodation: 30 rooms: standard, doubles and triples. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom, telephone with DDI/DDN, central heating, cable TV and bar service. Facilities and services: indoor garage, laundry service, and internet. Restaurant: breakfast bar. Capacity: 40 people. Meeyting facilities: 1 meeting room. Capacity: 50 people. 82 Built in: 1995 the central building and in 1997 the adjoint building. Location: in Ruinas de Quilmes Colalo del Valle, 2000 metres above sea level. Accommodation: 20 rooms in the central building and 14 rooms in the adjoint building including singles, doubles, triples, quadruples. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom, hot water, heating and sommier beds. Some rooms are supplied with king size bed and living-room with fire place. Facilities and services: swimming pool, semi-public telephones, 3 living-rooms, satellite TV in the main living-room, parking lot, gift shop, museum, guided visits. Restaurant: 1 bar. 1 indoor restaurant for breakfasts. Capacity: 35 people. 1 outdoor restaurant 50 metres away from the hotel. Capacity: 100 people. Meeting facilities: the outdoor restaurant can be used for meetings.

83 NORTHWEST Salta Provincial **** Plaza Hotel Address: Caseros 794 (A4400DMP) Salta Hotels Salta **** Address: Buenos Aires 1 (A4402FDA) Salta Telephone / fax: (0387) Web site: Telephone/Fax: (0387) Built in: Enlarged in Remodelled in Location: 200 metres away from the main park, in the touristic and commercial area of the city. Accommodation: 60 rooms, including superior twins, standard rooms and suites. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom, telephone with DDN/DDI, air condtioning, heating, cable TV and minibar. Facilities and services: outdoor swimming pool, room service, safe box, medical assistance, fax and computer service, non smoking floors, sauna, gym, solarium, parking. Restaurant: 1 restauant: offers international menu a la carte. Meeting facilities: 1 meeting room. Capacity: 25 people. Gran Hotel **** Presidente Address: Av.Belgrano 353 (A4400AWB) Salta Telephone / fax: (0387) /23 Web site: Built in: inaugurated in Built in: Location: priviliged, opposite Plaza 9 de Julio, in the city's civic center, departure spot of the main NOA excursions. Accommodation: 97 rooms: standard, A category and superior category. 70 single/double rooms, 5 triples, 4 cuadruples, 16 junior suites, 1 senior suite and 1 presidential suite. All rooms are supplied with: telephone with DDI/DDN, air conditioning, heating, colour TV and frigobar. The standard rooms are mostly internal, overlooking the hotel's garden and include parquet floors and bathroom with shower. The A category rooms are larger, internal and external, mostly with carpeting and bathroom with bath tub. The superior category rooms include the junior suites, senior suite and presidential, which are supplied the same as the A category rooms but are larger and some have bathroom with jacuzzi. The presidential and the senior suite are supplied with anteroom and an exclusive view of the square. Facilities and services: swimming pool, solarium, safe box, computer room, gym, living-room with board games, laundry service, 24 hs room service, parking lot, medical assistance, travel agency, car rental, golf course at Salta Polo Club, tennis courts at Sporting Club. Restaurant: 1 traditional and international restaurant a la carte. 1 bar and 1 cafeteria with air conditioning. Meeting facilities: 1 banquet room with air conditioning. Capacity: 300 people. Special private rooms with restaurant service and outdoor grill. Northwest Location: in the city center, 2 blocks from the main square. Accommodation: 84 double rooms and 12 suites. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom, telephone with DDI/DDN, air conditioning, heating, cable TV and frigobar. Facilities and services: safe box, sauna, gym, swimming pool, room service, parking lot. Restaurant: 1 restaurant: offers international food. 1 cafeteria. Meeting facilities: 2 rooms. Capacity: 200 people each one. Executive room. Capacity: 80 people. Solar de la Plaza **** Address: Leguizamón 669 (A4400BOM) Salta Telephone / fax: (0387) Built in: Location: in the city center, 4 blocks from the main square. Accommodation: 30 rooms, including deluxe rooms and suites. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom, telephone with DDI/DDN, air conditioning, heating, satellite TV, electronic safe box, frigobar and internet connection. Facilities and services: parking lot, sauna, swimming pool, gym, room service, business center, fax service, PC's. Restaurant: La Terraza : offers international food. 1 bar. Meeting facilities: 2 convention rooms. Capacity: 10 and 60 people. El Lagar **** Address: 20 de Febrero 877 (A4400EMQ) Salta Telephone: (0387) / Location: 7 blocks away from the main park 9 de Julio and 100 metres away from the departure point of the famous Tren de las Nubes Built in: El Lagar was a family house built 25 years ago. In 1999 it started to work as a hotel. Accommodation: 10 deluxe rooms, including 1 VIP suite and 1 junior suite. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom with hair-dryer and amenities, wireless telephone, air conditioning and heating, cable TV, safe box, minibar, desk. Facilities and services: parking, fax service, room service, laundry and dry cleaning service, outdoor swimming pool, large gardens, internet acces. Restaurant: offers menu a la carte and international meals. Cellar: offers regional meals and wine tasting. 83

84 Del Dique **** Address: Ruta 47, km 12 (4421) Coronel Moldes, Salta Telephone: (0387) /3 Fax: Web site: Portezuelo **** Address: Av.Turística 1 (4400) Salta Telephone: (0387) Fax: Built in: 1965 Built in: inaugurated June 20th, A sauna, Finnish bath, relax room, gym, playroom and business center are being built. Location: 70 km from the city of Salta and 120 km from Cafayate, by the greatest northern water mirror: Cabra Corral Dam. Accommodation: 28 rooms overlooking the lake: 2 presidential suites, 8 VIP, 16 standard and 2 singles. All rooms are supplied with: telephone with DDI/DDN, air conditioning, heating, cable TV, safe box, frigobar and magnetic lock. The VIP rooms also include hydromassage. Facilities and services: swimming pool, solarium, hydromassage, mini golf, 4 football fields and volley courts, private dock, playground, games, mountain bikes. Restaurant: offers semi a la carte menu and Chef specialties. Capacity: 120 people. 1 quincho : offers excellent barbecue. Natural terraces: totally equipped to enjoy a good asado criollo (argentine barbecue). Bar. Meeting facilities: Los Lapachos room: equipped with screens, data projectors, PC data, sound, etc. Capacity: 50 people. Another room for 120 people. 1 ship: totally equipped for parties or events while it travels through the dam. Posada del Sol *** Location: in the east area of the city, a few blocks away from the commercial center with easy access to the touristic points. Accommodation: 72 rooms, including 3 suites. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom, telephone with DDN/DDI, air condtioning, heating, cable TV, programmed music system and panoramic view. Facilities and services: bilingual personnel, parking, solarium, laundry and dry cleaning service, internet, fax, meetings organization, room service. Restaurant: El Portezuelo: offers international and regional meals overlooking the Lerma Valley. 1 coffee shop. Meeting facilities: convention and banquet room for groups of 15 to 250 people. Hostal **** Provincial Molinos Address: Abraham Cornejo, Provincia de Salta. Telephone: (0388) Fax: Built in: since 1987 works as an inn Northwest Address: Alvarado 646 (A4402AAN) Salta Telephone / fax: (0387) Web site: Built in: Remodelled and reinaugurated in Second remodelling in Location: in Molinos town, in the heart of the Calchaquies Valleys, 200 km away from Salta city. Accommodation: 14 double rooms, including 2 apartments for 4 people. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom and heating. Facilities and services: living-room, central yard, parking, swimming pool. Restaurant: 1 bar and 1 restaurant. Menu a la carte Location: strategically located in the commercial and financial area, two blocks from the banks, exchange bureaux, travel agencies, the Church, the San Francisco Cathedral, the Historic Cabildo, the Plaza 9 de Julio and near Alberdi pedestrian street. Accommodation: 59 standard rooms, including singles, doubles, triples and quadruples. All rooms are supplied with: carpeting, private bathroom, telephone with DDI/DDN, air conditioning, central heating, cable TV, digital safe box. Facilities and services: medical assistance, laundry and dry cleaning service, 24 hs internet access, reception service, fax, . Restaurant: next opening. Meeting facilities: Conference room equipped with flip charts and blackboard. Capacity: 70 people in Auditorium setting. Hostal Selva Montana Address: Alfonsina Storni 2315 (A4401XAK), Villa San Lorenzo, Salta Telephone/Fax: (0387) / 1433 Web site: Victoria Plaza *** Address: Zuviría 16 (A4400EFB) Salta Telephone: (0387) /0634 Built in: Location: in the city's civic center, opposite the main square. Accommodation: 86 rooms, including singles, doubles, triples and 3 suites. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom, telephone with DDI/DDN, central air conditioning and heating, cable TV, safe box, minibar, radio, fax and internet. Facilities and services: laundry and dry cleaning service, parking lot, gym, sauna, 24 hs room service, babysitter, medical assistance, free airport transfers. Restaurant: 1 restaurant. Meeting facilities: 1 meeting room. Capacity: 60 people. montana Built in: Colonial style building built in Remodelled 1994, 1996 and Location: only 14 minutes away from the city center, surrounded by exuberant vegetation. Accommodation: 26 rooms, including standard, VIP and VIP Mirador. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom, telephone with DDN/DDI, heating and cable TV. Facilities and services: laundry service, internet room, swimming pool, solarium, parking, tennis court, grill, large park, stable, children games. Restaurant: coffe shop and bar. Meeting facilities: 1 conference room equipped with: data projector, slide projector, stereo, VCR, flip chart, blackboard, TV. Capacity: 100 people. 84

85 El Portal de Salta *** Address: Alvarado 341 (4400) Salta Telephone: (0387) Fax: Web site: Finca El Manantial Address: La Silleta, (4407) Salta Telephone: (0387) Built in: 1856 Location: in Salta's city center. Accommodation: 40 rooms. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom, telephone, air conditioning, heating, TV, programmed music system and sommier beds. Facilities and services: central heating, parking lot, swimming pool, laundry service, safe box, luggage store room, office, fax. Restaurant: restaurant and bar service. Meeting facilities: 1 conference and reception room. Location: 13 km from Salta's airport and 25 km from the capital city, at the foot of the Andes mountain range. Accommodation: 11 rooms in suite: 1 single, 7 doubles and 3 triples. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom, heating and regional decoration. Facilities and services: reading room, satellite TV, parking lot, swimming pool, paddle and volley courts, football field, ping pong table, excursions: horseback riding, trekking, connection with Tren a Las Nubes and Movitrack. Restaurant: 1 restaurant: offers regional meals. El Bordo de las Lanzas Address: Rivadavia s/n, El Bordo (4432) Departamento de Gral. Güemes, Salta. Telephone: (0387) / Salta Office: 20 de febrero 837 (4400) Salta Telephone: (0387) / Cel: (387) Web site: Location: 60 km away from Salta city, in a magnificent place surrounded by hills and 20 km away from Jujuy airport. Accommodation: 8 rooms including 7 doubles and 1 quadruple. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom, fire place, electric heating, fan. Facilities and services: swimming pool, room service, laundry service, fax and e- mail service, parking. Farm activities and adventure tourism: observation and sharing in country activities; sugar cane, tobbaco and cotton harvest; horseback riding to Totoral to watch alligators, to lakes and hills; polo, photographic safaris; small zoo; alligator reserve; horse raising; steam waters nearby. Restaurant: home-made cuissine. Full board. Hostería de Iruya *** Address: ASan Martín s/n, Iruya, Salta Telephone: (0376) Cellular: / Location: in the town's highest point, with a great panoramic view, 315 km north of Salta city. Accommodation: 14 single, double and triple rooms. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom with hair dryer, heating, hot water, iron ornaments, white sheets and arts & crafts details. Facilities and services: parking lot, a large lookout terrace, living-room with TV, medical assistance, laundry service, organization of activities: walks, horseback ridings, ets. Restaurant: 1 restaurant-cafeteria where you may flavour exquisite dishes and regional desserts. Capacity: 60 people. Northwest 85

86 NORTHWEST Jujuy Altos de la Viña **** Address: Pasquini López 50 (4600) San Salvador de Jujuy Telephone: (0388) Fax: Web site: Hotels Gran Hotel **** Panorama Address: Belgrano 1295 (Y4600ABW) San Salvador de Jujuy. Telephone: (0388) / 4089 Northwest Location: exclusively situated, it s the unique hotel with panoramic Jujuy valley view, just 5 minutes away from the commmercial and cultural area. Built in: Totally remodelled. Accommodation: 62 rooms: VIP, standard, junior suites, presidential suites. All rooms are supplied with: telephone with DDI/DDN, air conditioning and heating, cable TV with more than 60 channels, minibar, PC and fax connection, hair-dryer. Vip rooms are supplied with safe box. Facilities and services: 5 hectares with gardens; golf, football, volleyball, tennis, paddle and ping-pong, swimming pool with solarium, children games, horse riding, laundry and dry cleaning service, multilingual personnel, babysitter, tea room, rental car and remise, medical assistance, secretarial service, podiums, cellular phones. Restaurant: 1 exclusive restaurant: offers American breakfast, regional and international meals, with panoramic view. Capacity: 150 people. 1 coffe shop: Capacity: 70 people. Meeting facilities: offers rooms for congresses, conventions, parties, weddings, meetings, social events or business meetings. Fully equiped with photocopier, sound system, screens, projectors, etc. Location: in the city center, a few metres away from Belgrano Park. Accommodation: 64 single, double and triple rooms, 3 suites. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom, telephone with DDN/DDI, air conditioning, heating, cable TV, safe box and minibar. Facilities and services: 24 hs room service, laundry and dry cleaning service, parking, safe box, fax service. Restaurant: offers regional, national and international meals, menu a la carte. Meeting facilities: 3 Rooms, Rojo, 200 people, El Balcón, 80/100 people, Las Tinajas 50/60 people. Augustus Hotel *** Address: Belgrano 715 (Y4600ABM) San Salvador de Jujuy. Telephone: (0388) Fax: Built in: Remodelled in 2000 Location: in the center of the city. Jujuy **** Palace Hotel Address: Belgrano 1060 (Y4600ABT) San Salvador de Jujuy Telephone / fax: (0388) Accommodation: 83 standard, VIP and suite rooms. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom, cable TV, telephone with DDN/DDI, programmed music system, AM/FM radio. Facilities and services: parking, VCR, hydromassages. Restaurant: Augustus coffee shop: offers menu a la carte. Meeting facilities: 1 room equipped with blackboards and flip charts. Web site: Built in: inaugurated in October, Augusto room inaugurated in Location: only 5 blocks from the city's civic and commercial center, 2 blocks from the Central Post Office, 50 m from Dinar airlines and opposite Lapa and Aerolíneas Argentinas. Accommodation: 46 rooms: singles, doubles, triples, cuadruples, 5 junior suites and 1 presidential suite. All rooms are supplied with: telephone with DDI/DDN, hot-cold air conditioning, colour satellite TV with remote control, safe box, 3 programmed music channels, frigobar, fax and modem connection. Facilities and services: gym, sauna, laundry, parking lot, medical assistance, 24 hs room service, multilingual personnel. Restaurant: 1 restaurant: offers intenational food. Meeting facilities: Rosado room: equipped with central air conditioning and heating, screen, data projector, projector, blackboard, flip charts, TV, video. Capacity: 35 people in theatre setting. Augusto room: equipped with central air conditioning and heating, incorporated audio, adjoint exclusive and totally equipped kitchen, large screen, screen, blackboards, flip charts, data projector, projector. This room is adapted to need: theatre, school, cocktail, dinner, etc. Capacity: 220 people. 86 El Manantial del Silencio Address: Ruta Nacional 52, km 3.5 (4618) Purmamarca Telephone / fax: (0388) /81 Location: 500 meters from the town of Purmamarca, opposite the 7 colour hill, 65 km from Salinas Grandes and 25 km from Tilcara. Accommodation: 12 rooms. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom, telephone and heating. Facilities and services: outdoor parking lot, outdoor swimming pool, large livingroom with bar, library, fire place, excursions: trekking, mountain bike, etc. Restaurant: 1 restaurant. Offers Andine gourmet cuisine. Meeting facilities: 1 room. Capacity: 60 people in conference setting.

87 Cuyo and The Andes Green valleys, imposing mountains and deep ravines are the highlights of this region where the Andes reach their maximum expression at the mythical Mount Aconcagua, the highest peak of the whole American continent. Cuyo means 'country of desserts' in Mapuche language. The name is due to the arid irregular land that lies next to the high mountains. Today, Cuyo is also 'the land of the sun and the good wine'. The region boasts a perfect weather and diaphanous sky, rarely clouded. Its cities and productive areas are irrigated by channels and ditches. Artificial irrigation, along with the exceptionally adequate conditions, have rendered possible the development of an important wine production. Visiting some wineries, admiring the green surrounding vineyards and tasting some good wine are a 'must' for anyone visiting the region. The area was inhabited as from quite ancient times, the area was frequently traveled by the Incan aborigines who headed from Perú to Chile, thus many Incan relics are found at different spots around the region. The area was later on thought to treasure important wealths and was hence insistently explored by Spanish Conquerors, who founded there several cities. Though as this section of the Andes has been repeatedly shattered by strong earthquakes, its most important cities show quite a modern aspect, such as Mendoza and San Juan. Enlarged Area 5 La Serena CHILE Los Valos Paso de Aguas Negras Rodeo Calingasta Co. Bonete Chico m Las Leñas 43 Concepción Belén Andalgalá C a t a m a r c a Tinogasta Frías San Isidro 40 9 Chilecito Villa Unión Nonogasta 5 La Rioja San José de Jachal Pismanta Ullum San San Juan Caucete Co. Aconcagua Uspallata m Potrerillo Paso de la Cumbre Mendoza Puente Viña del Mar Maipú del Inca Luján de Cuyo Valparaíso Tupungato La Paz Tunuyán SANTIAGO 143 Rancagua Curico Co. Ojos del Salado m S a n J u a n Río Tunuyán San Rafael San F. del Valle de Catamarca Río Desaguadero M e n d o z a L a R i o j a 38 Cruz del Eje C ó r d o b a La Falda Cosquín 141 Villa Carlos Paz Córdoba Villa Alta Gracia Cura Brochero Villa Dolores Quines Río Tercero Villa María San Luis 7 Villa Mercedes Gral. Alvear S a n L u i s 188 Termas de Río Hondo La Cocha La Banda Santiago del Estero Río Cuarto 36 Justo Darac Deán Funes Río Quinto Río Tercero Río Cuarto 8 Cuyo and The Andes 1 5 Talca Chillan Malargüe Atuel 143 Victorica Gral. Pico Santa Rosa The main city in the region is Mendoza, followed by San Juan, La Rioja, Catamarca and San Luis. All of them capital cities to the provinces of the same name. Los Angeles 40 Chos Malal N e u q u é n Copahue Caviahue Río Neuquén L a P a m p a Gral. Acha 25 de Mayo Lag. Urre Lauquen Lag. La Amarga Scale in km N 87

88 CUYO AND THE ANDES Mendoza Cuyo and The Andes Las Cuevas P. de la Cumbre Co. Aconcagua 6959 Puente del Inca Co. Juncal 6180 Río del Plomo 7 7 Polvaredas Los Penitentes Potrerillos Co. Penitentes 4356 Co. de la Pollera 6235 Co. Tupungato 6800 Port. de los Piuquenes Co. Tupungatito Uspallata 89 Tupungato Los Arboles Río Mendoza Río Santa Clara Vista Flores Mendoza Godoy Cruz Las Heras Tunuyán Maipú Luján de Cuyo Ugarteche Embalse El Carrizal Enlarged Area 41 Carapachay San Martín Rivadavia 7 Mendoza is located 1,037 km (650 miles) from Buenos Aires and just two hours away by plane from Buenos Aires. Even if the city was founded in 1561, it shows very few relics of its original buildings since three centuries later the city was swept away by a fierce earthquake. San Francisco Church is one of the few vestiges of its colonial architecture. The city was promptly rebuilt to its present modern outlook with tree-lined streets skirted by irrigation ditches, numerous squares and parks. The downtown area is characterized by its intense commercial activity, with many shops, sidewalk cafes and restaurants. The 420 hectares (990 acres) General San Martin Park, boasts over 700 tree species, 110 species of authochtonous and exotic animals. It also has a large lake and wide green spaces fit to practice outdoor sports. The low hill called 'Cerro de la Gloria' stands within the park, where the zoo and a monument to General San Martín are located. The outskirts of Mendoza, with its narrow tree-lined streets, vineyards, huge villas, small adobe houses and wineries, turn the city into the nicest one in Argentina. The Sanctuary called El Challao, located at the foothill of Las Lajas Range, 8 km (5 miles) north from the city, is a cave dedicated to the Virgin of Lourdes that welcomes numerous pilgrimages. Another religious center, 10 km (6 miles) from Mendoza, is the church of the Virgin of La Carrodilla, patron of the vineyards, where the Holy Week celebrations are held every year. There is also an Aborigine Museum of sculptures where relics from the XIV and the XIX centuries are exhibited. Another interesting place, 14 km (9 miles) from Mendoza, is 'Chacras de Coria', a beautiful summer resort surrounded by great views of the attractive Andes Range, where the abundant vegetation and healthy microclimate makes the place perfect for resting and relaxing. Viticulture is more than just an economic activity in this region. It is deeply-rooted in its history. The cultivation of the extensive vineyards is possible due to a widespread network of irrigation channels, laid in pre-colombian times and extended during the colonial era. The area is blessed with a perfect combination of sandy soil, abundant water, dry weather and year-round sunshine which makes the region most apt for extensive wine production. Wine production was introduced in the region by the Jesuit priests that planted the first vines in the XVI century, but production really took off in the mid-1800s with the arrival of Italian and French immigrants, who brought along their advanced technology. Nowadays the local wines are positioned among the best wines in the world. In the outskirts of the city, there are several wineries that can be visited, by traveling the charming poplar-lined roads. The Vintage is the most important popular festival in all the province. It consists of a series of cultural and artistic activities by which the province celebrates the end of a working year in the vineyards. The festival takes place on the first weekend of March but the celebration really starts in mid- January with different folkloric and contemporary festivals that feature typical meals, music, sports and gaucho skills demonstrations. Each department of the province, chooses a representative to participate in the Central Festival competing for the crown of the National Queen of the Vintage. The festival La Consulta E.Bustos San Carlos CHILE Río Tunayán Chilecito Pareditas Mendoza Port. del Maipo Co. Maipo 5323 Lago Diamante 98 Arroyo Los Papagayos Escala en km N Río Negro Río Diamante Río Blanco 101 La Faja Embalse agua del Toro 25 de Mayo Embalse Los Reyunos San Rafael 88

89 involves also parades of carts, colonial carriages, old cars, loaded mules, gauchos on horseback, actors and musicians. The festival ends with an exhibition of fireworks at the foot of the Cerro de la Gloria with 600 people on stage. Westward from Mendoza, two routes lead to Uspallata. One of them climbs through an unbelievable beautiful landscape across several mineral water springs that lead the way to Villavicencio, the best known of all of them, from where an aqueduct carries the water to the processing plant in Mendoza. Some time ago, there was in the area a very good hot spring spa & hotel, closed nowadays. Going on to Uspallata, the route enters the so called 'Caracoles de Villavicencio', a particularly winding gravel road, with 365 curves, that offers marvelous views at each bend. The other way to Uspallata is the National Route 7, completely paved, which leads to Chile, across the Andean Cordillera. The road goes through Cacheuta, a fully equipped hot spring resort. Apart from the thermal baths, the place is ideal for a number of activities such as: horseback riding, trekking, rafting in the Mendoza River rapids and mountain biking; and some important archaeological and paleontological relics found in the area provide additional interest to the area. From there, a 40-kilometer unpaved mountain road, tortuous but most rewarding because of its wonderful views, leads to the 'Valle de Potrerillos'. The village is a kind of oasis chosen by many 'mendocinos' (inhabitants of Mendoza) as the perfect place to have their summer residences so as to enjoy the hot season away from the city. Further up the road reaches the modest ski resort of Vallecitos, open July thru September. Back to the international route, you will finally reach Uspallata enjoying the excellent views of the Mendoza River and the imposing viaducts, today abandoned, of the Trans-Andean Railway, which has stopped operating more than half a century ago. Going on towards the 'High Mountain', the road leads to 'Los Penitentes' ski resort. Its name, 'The Penitents', is due to some irregular naturally carved 'sculptures' that appear on the mountain wall, that look like a beautiful cathedral with a group of monks praying at its front. This winter resort is located at 2,580 meters (8,590 feet) above sea level, thus offering abundant and dry snow for about 17 weeks a year. It also offers good facilities: several hotels, power plant, 17 kilometers (11 miles) of ski slopes for different difficulty levels, ski school, and good ski lifts. The next highlight is 'Puente del Inca' (Inca's Bridge), located 186 km (116 miles) from Mendoza. It is a natural bridge, painted by the sulfurous waters of the Mendoza River, which was part of the Inca's Trail used by the caravans that traveled to Peru, in pre- Columbian times. Great views of the Andean giants can be admired from there: Mount Aconcagua, towards the north and Mount Tupungato, towards the south. Till 1940, there was a smart hotel which was swept away by an alluvion. Nowadays, there is a simple inn in the area. A few kilometers away, you reach the Horcones Gorge, main gateway to the Aconcagua Provincial Park, which was created in This is one of the starting points of many expeditions to climb this imposing 'Stone Sentry' (that's the meaning of Aconcagua in the Huarpe aborigine dialect). This path is the access to the refuges of 'Plaza de Mulas' and 'Plaza Francia', both campsites for the climbing expeditions to Mount Aconcagua, the highest mountain in the American continent which reaches 6,969 meters (23,210 feet) above sea level. As from 1883, when the German expeditionary Paul Gustfeld, climbed up to its 6,200 meters (3,875 miles) and spread the news of its real height, countless expeditions attempted to conquer its summit. It was the Swiss Mathias Zubringgen who in 1897 set feet on the top for the first time. Since then several ways up to the summit have been explored. Many of those are highly technically demanding, but it was discover one which is rather accessible to amateur mountain lovers. The region boasts some other monumental massifs, such as Mount Mercedario (6,770 m/22,544 ft.), located WINE TOURS Argentina is the fifth wine manufacturer in the world, and Cuyo is the undisputed core of the activity. By the beginning of the XX century, a lot of Italian, French and Spanish immigrants provided new technologies for the development of the vineyards and the highbreeding of grapes. Thus the wine manufacturing started to grow so as to reach what it is today. The soil constituents and the pure water that feeds the irrigation system, added to the dry continental climate with wide temperature range, makes the perfect environment for the production of grapes. The Argentine wines have set foot at the most demanding international markets, and have been widely accepted there. This renders the area the perfect setting for the most interesting Wine Tours: to see how the wine is produced in the region, to learn about the different types of grapes used and to taste some of the best wines in the world. Local experts will provide all the necessary information, as specialized as the group may demand: for wine manufacturers, expert enologists or just any visitor interested in good winemaking. And, of course, the guided wine tasting will make the climax of the excursion. Cuyo and The Andes 1 89

90 Cuyo and The Andes ADVENTURE TOURISM Cuyo offers an excellent alternative for adventure activities. The torrential rivers descending from the Andes permit the practice of rafting and kayaking as well as the numerous dams, where it is possible to practice also windsurf, nautical ski, diving, sailing, and fishing. A good example is the Argentine Pentathlon, the most important sport competition in the country, which involves five different sport activities performed in the Atuel River Canyon. Another option is the exploration of caves in Malargüe such as the 'Cueva del Tigre' (Tigger's Cave) or the 'Cueva de las Brujas' (Witches' Cave). Trekking, mountain biking or horseback riding, the visitor will be able to discover secret places of extraordinary beauty. Climbing can be practiced in all its levels, ranging from practices in small hills to more challenging ascensions to the highest peaks, such as Mount Aconcagua or Mercedario. In Mount Arco, hang-gliding and parachuting are available. some 60 km (37 miles) north from Mount Aconcagua. Besides its beautiful scenery, the area offers the highest average of sunny days in the country and a remarkable pure air protected by its difficult accessibility and its situation far from the massive tourism circuits. All of them good reasons to choose the area as the ideal setting for climbing, trekking and horseback riding expeditions. Going on westbound along Route 7, the last Argentine village, before crossing the frontier into Chile is reached: the small hamlet of Las Cuevas, where there is very little more than a 'Puesto de Gendarmería' (Frontier Police Station). From here, a mountain road leads to the 'Cristo Redentor' (Christ The Redeemer), a large commemorative monument erected there as a guardian of the peaceful relations between Argentina and Chile, so precarious in certain moments of the history of these countries. The road is usually closed in winter. Continuing along the main road, there is a tunnel that crosses the border into Chile. Santiago de Chile is 169 km (105 miles) away. Southward from Mendoza, there are several beautiful intermountain valleys. One of them is the Tupungato Valley, in the center-west of Mendoza province. It makes a great scenery of deep gorges mingling with numerous rivers and several streams that have their source up in the Andean Range, crowned by the impressive silhouette of Mount Tupungato (6,800 m/22,645 above sea level) dominating the scene. Leaving Mendoza along National Route 40, it is possible to see on the right the 'Cordón de Plata' (Sliver Range). 80 kilometers (50 miles) ahead, the nice town of Tunuyán is located at the center of the Uco Valley. It is a region mostly dedicated to cattle breeding and agriculture. There are extended plantations of apples, pears, plums, apricots, cherries, quince fruit, as well as aromatic herbs such as mint and marjoram. There are also oil fields in the region. However, the main economic activity of the Uco Valley is the wine production, important national and foreing wineries own large wineyards in the area. The valley is a privileged area for grape and fine wine production, at a heigh superior to 1,.000 meters above the sea level, framed by the fascinating backdrop of the high peaks. A 'Historic Apple Tree' is situated there. The site was important during San Martin's independency campaigns, which is important, if not for its local historic importance, for being the starting point of the horseback riding expeditions across the Andes, called the Andean Crossing. There is an alternative route called 'Cordón de Plata' (Silver Range) which skirts the Andean slopes along several 'estancias' that pro- duce potatoes and some other vegetables. The white snow-capped peaks of the Andes are observed all over the journey, till reaching the Uco Valley. Upon arrival to Pareditas, a southwards detour leads to the incredibly beautiful 'Diamante Lagoon',which lies in the mid of a mountain-surrounded prairie, the highest one being Maipo Volcano (5,323 m/17,725 ft.) which is reflected in its waters like a mirror. The lagoon, plentiful of trouts, is probably of volcanic origin, produced by the accumulation of large quantities of lava and volcanic cinder, in the southern extreme of the lake. It is the perfect place for an important array of activities: game fishing, fauna spotting, mountain biking, horseback riding, trekking and climbing. The city of San Rafael, the second most important city in the province, is located on the Diamante River which has its source in the mentioned lagoon. The city concentrates important wineries and fruit processing plants. The city is the place where the Argentina Pentathlon is held, every year, during the first fortnight of February. It consists on 5 sport disciplines which are developed in the area of the Atuel River Canyon, an outstanding geomorphologic formation with multicolor slopes, plunging to the river. The winding and narrow entrance route follows the river course, surrounded by bizarre rock formations that represent different formations such as: the friars, the sculptures, the castles, the fist, the mummy and the lion's head, among others. This section shows important hydroelectric power plants such as El Nihuil Dam and its great artificial lake and the Valle Grande Dam. In the place called the Indian Cave, located near the river, an interesting archaeological site has been discovered: a set of rupestrian paintings belonging to 90

91 ancient XVI and XVII century aborigine cultures, as well as some remains of prehistoric animals. In the area know as 'Rincón del Atuel' some weird buildings especially designed for hunting have also been found. Leaving San Rafael behind, National Route 40 leads to El Sosneado, along the pleasant scenery of the 'Cuesta de los Terneros' (The Calves' Slope), which is reached 33 km (21 miles) after leaving the city. The name is due to the excellent quality of its pastures. Going on south-westwards, the road enters a mountain region, passing by the Diamante Salt Pits so as to finally reach the small town of El Sosneado.The area is featured by the pristine wild nature which makes it the perfect setting for assorted outdoor activities such as long hikes and visits to the 'Laguna Blanca del Sosneado' (Sosneado's White Lagoon). The crystal clear waters of this lagoon are crowded by a most diverse bird fauna (ducks, flamingoes, macaes, swans and back necked swans, among others). Several paths that start nearby lead to the Sosneado's campsites, basis for the climbing expeditions to the summit. Continuing southbound from El Sosneado, along Route 40, you reach the 'Las Leñas Ski Resort', passing by the 'Valle de los Molles' (Los Molles Valley), where the Lahuenco Hot Springs -rich in therapeutic properties- are located. Only 6 km afterwards and just a few meters away from the route, it is possible to observe the weird formations known as 'Pozo de las Animas' (Wraiths' Pit). These are two large ditches with vertical walls that host, at the bottom, two unreachable black lagoons; the larger one being 400-meter (1,330 feet) across and 1,000-meter (3,330 feet) deep. The soil sinking was due to the action of underground waters. 7 km (4 miles) to the north of Los Molles, on the left bank of the Salado River, the emerald green mirror-like 'Laguna de la Niña Encantada' (Enchanted Girl Lagoon) lies surrounded by the rocky walls of some surrounding mountains which reflect in the water surface rendering the place really magic. Its bed is probably an old volcanic crater. The road goes on towards the Las Leñas Valley, where the most modern ski resort in the country is located 2,250 meter (7,490 feet) above sea level in the mid of the abrupt and arid Andean scenery. The road leads then to 'Valle Hermoso' (Beautiful Valley), a narrow 6-kilometer (4 mile) wide and 20-meter (12 mile) long valley, submersed in the Andean Cordillera. At the foothill there are two amazingly beautiful lagoons, plentiful of large trouts and salmons. It is also possible to observe some 'guanacos', 'ñandúes' (rheas) and assorted small species such as rabbits, 'vizcachas' and 'Martín Pescadores' (kingfishers species of heron ) which contribute to turn the landscape great. The city of Malargüe is located further south, 188 km (118 miles) from San Rafael, along Route 40. Its airport is the main gateway to the ski resort of Las Leñas. It is like the 'Mecca' for every adventurous traveler visiting Argentina. There are several nearby attractions of imposing beauty, such as Llancanelo Lagoon located 69 km (43 miles) from Malargüe, recently included within the ranking of the 15 most important lagoon ecosystems in the world. It hosts a great flamingo colony and is one of the main centers of bird breeding in Argentina. It boasts over 130 permanent and migratory bird species, such as: black-necked swans, ducks and herons as well as many other native fauna species. For those that rather like more off-thebeaten-track adventures, the so-called 'Caverna de las Brujas' (Witches' Cave) can be the perfect destination. It is located 72 km (45 miles) away from Malargüe and has so far been only partially explored. WINTER SPORTS Mendoza is also ideal to enjoy the snow in winter with the bright sunshine frame, nice temperatures and very rare rains that help keep the ski slopes in excellent conditions. Las Leñas Valley, Los Penitentes, and Vallecitos are the three most important wintersport resorts that, besides traditional ski, offer the opportunity to practice sledge, snowboard, snowcat, and wind-ski, among others. Another interesting spot to visit is the largest vicuña reserve of Argentina, which is located in the region. It dates back to the Jurassic Period, thus entering it descending some 350 meters (1,165 feet) under the careful surveillance of the expert local guides is a trip back in time, passing by a series of galleries and tunnels covered by stalactites, stalagmites and strata that show different colors as the mineral constitution of the rock varies. The walls of the cave exhibit marine fossil relics, such as ammonites and mussels, which are unmistakable traces of the Jurassic Period, during which this section of the continent was sunk in the oceanic depths. Cuyo and The Andes 91

92 CUYO AND THE ANDES San Juan Cuyo and The Andes Situated to the north of Mendoza, the Province of San Juan shows an amazingly varied landscape: green oasis, imposing mountains, multicolor rock formations, fauna and archaeological reserves, hot springs, strong rivers and large dams. The city of San Juan is the capital of the province, and is situated 1,140 km (712 miles) from Buenos Aires. It is one of the oldest cities in the country strongly attached to its historic roots. However, it has a modern appearance, since it has been almost fully rebuilt after many of its old buildings were devastated by a strong earthquake that shattered the city in The downtown area has an intense commercial life, which develops mainly around its main square, called Plaza 25 de Mayo, where several shops, banks, hotels, cafés and clubs gather. The Cathedral, situated opposite the square, was rebuilt after the earthquake, and treasures valuable art and religious assets of the province. A thorough city tour discovers its many secrets to the visitor, such as the Two-armed Palm-tree, a botanical curiosity since there are only three more specimens like it around the world. It is known by the scientific name of Washington Robusta ; the historic house that belonged to President Domingo Faustino Sarmiento; and some museums such as the Natural History Museum, which owns an interesting collection of fossils. The Parque Mayo (May s Park), located just in front of the Provincial Casino, is a wide green space very nicely forested, with sculptures and an artificial lake, created for outdoor entertainment and sports. The complex includes important facilities such as a cycling track, several sport courts, an 8,000-seat indoor stadium, a Greek amphitheater, exhibition rooms and an Auditorium remarkable for its excellent acoustic. Only 25 km (16 miles) away, leaving the city along National Route 40, you can visit the La Laja Museum, subsidiary to the Universidad Nacional de San Juan (San Juan National University), which exhibits archaeological remains found in different sites around the province, among which it is remarkable the mummified relics of an Inca chasqui (aborigine courier), known as the Mummy of Mount Torre, since it was discovered high on this mountain by an expedition of climbers, at a height of 6,100 meters (20,130 feet) above sea level. Its assets include also everyday life gadgets belonging to the different aborigine peoples that inhabited the region. There is also an outdoor park with full-size replicas of different kinds of aboriginal abodes, rupestrian paintings and crops. There are many other Enlarged Area Huerta de Huachi Rodeo Iglesia Entre Ríos 150 Va. Unión Guandacol Huaco San José de Jáchal San Juan Valle de la Luna Río Bermejo Villa Castelli Valle del Rio Bermejo Río Jáchal Sañogasta Famatina Chilecito Anguinán Nonogasta La Rioja Puerta de Talampaya 26 San Agustín del Valle Fértil Patquía Va. Sanagasta La Rioja Desagüe de los Colorados San Ramón attractions in the surroundings of the city, such as the Ignacio de la Roza Dam, essential for the irrigation of the area, which is surrounded by the Fauna Park and Hydrologic Institute. A few kilometers further away the Ullum Dam is located and its large artificial lake is suitable for game fishing and water sports. The Félix Aguilar Observatory, located nearby, has signed an agreement with Yale University since, given the transparency of the surrounding sky, the place is ideal for astronomic observation. From the Soldano s Dam (complimentary work to the dam), a climbing road leads to the Cumbres de Marquesado (Marquisate s Peaks). There is a lookout there, which offers an amazing view of the surrounding scenery. The place is known as the Zonda Valley Lookout. The Zonda is a hot and dry wind typical of the region that blows all over the year but mostly from August to October, because of the presence of snow in the high peaks of the Andes. A narrow mountain road, where traffic is restricted to defined hours, runs parallel to the San Juan River which flows down from the high mountain. 90 km away from the city, before reaching Pachaco, there is a wide gorge that leads to Estancia El Palque, from where the road goes on westward to Calingasta.It is a small town situated 135 km (85 miles) from San Juan, surrounded by over-4,000-meter-high (13,300-feethigh) mountains among which Mount Mercedario (6,670 m/22,000 ft.) is the highest one. Continuing southwards you reach the hamlet of Barreal, located 180 km (113 miles) from San Juan. An incredibly beautiful site lying in the mid of a Triassic Valley whose particular morphologic features provide colors to the scenery. In Cerros Pintados (Painted Hills), tectonic movements have uncovered Mesozoic rocks, where Triassic vegetable remains can be observed. These relics 40 Va. Gral. San Martín 12 San Juan Santa Lucía 141 Scale in km N 92

93 reflect the existence of a warmer and wetter climate in ancient geologic times. Barreal is center for the practice of a most uncommon sport, known as carrovelismo, consisting in competitions of small wind-powered sailcarts racing at great speed over the hard clay soil. National and international competitions are held there; the speed record is 137 km (86 miles) per hour. Crossing this plateau, in the so-called Pampa del Leoncito (Little Lion s Pampas), the El Leoncito Observatory is located. The transparency of the atmosphere renders possible an average of 270 to 300 clear nights a year, which turns the place into a perfect setting for astronomic observation. 34 km (21 miles) from Barreal, on the western slopes of the Sierras del Tontal, the National Intangible Reserve El Leoncito has been created. The area was constituted into a Natural Reserve in order to preserve representative communities of vegetation that are typical of the shrublands, Puna and high Andean environments, as well as historic, paleontological and archaeological sites, including a section of the Inca Trail. Nearby Mount Mercedario poses its towering image in the border between Argentina and Chile. Along with six other peaks it makes a semicircle that encloses one of the most outstanding valleys in the region: the Valle del Colorado. The place is perfect for adventure tourism lovers, amateur photographers and of course consummate climbers. Northbound from San Juan, along National Route 40, you reach San José de Jachal,a town that preserves its most ancient traditions. Old typical looms dating back to the XIX century are still used to produce colorful blankets, ponchos and rugs. Its church has been declared National Monument and it treasures valuable masterpieces. Leaving Jachal beyond and addressing west, the road reaches the Pachimoco Dam, which levels and splits the Jachal River waters. On the opposite bank the clay soiled flat called Barreal de Pachimoco is located at the Cuesta del Viento (Wind s Peak) foothill. A narrow winding mountain road climbs the steep and leads finally to Rodeo passing by -5 km (3 miles) before arriving there- an area where extraordinary basalt and lava formations can be observed on the mountain slopes. From there it is possible to enjoy a 4WD-vehicle drive to the San Guillermo Reserve (part of it is National park and the rest Provincial Reserve). It represents the native flora and fauna gathering rivers, creeks, lakes, hot springs and valleys placed in the core of the Andean Cordillera. 10 km (6 miles) from Rodeo, the small village of Pismanta has a hotel and a thermal complex. The local aborigines already knew the therapeutic properties of the waters and thus they visited the area. It is interesting to visit the small parish church and Tudcum, a tiny hamlet of adobe houses and fences, which makes its living out of nut, apple, fig and pear cultivations. Assorted loom garments are produced in sheep and guanaco wool such as: rugs, blankets, bags and ponchos. Continuing northwards you reach Angualasto, a little settlement surrounded by interesting archaeological relics of an aborigine culture named Angualasto '. One of the major attractions is the Mirador Hill. Its summit has a Rood and a Monument in honor to the Aborigine Cacique Pismanta, built in rock as a memory of the primitive inhabitants of the region. There are some other places that can be visited such as the Andalcollo Virgin Church, the Tamberías (aborigine dairy settlement), the Archaeological Museum Luis Benedetti and the Angualasto Public Library. Also north from San José de Jachal, in the mid of a crop covered area, the Los Cauquenes Dams, also known as Huaco Dam, may be also worth a visit. It consists in a beautiful artificial lake at 1,000 meters (3,300 feet) above sea level, where assorted nautical sports are available. Further north, after the spot called La Ciénaga, the road reaches the highest section of the Huaco Slope, from where a magnificent view of the surrounding landscape is obtained. Further on, the Huaco River appears and a few kilometers afterwards, the thermal waters of Agua Hedionda. The meandering road that links Los Cauquenes and the small rural town of Huaco boasts a unique geologic value: the possibility to clearly see the Primary Era strata which were uncovered by the movements produced by the formation of the Andean Cordillera during the Tertiary Period. Huaco is a small settlement of adobe houses, a nice main street and an old mill. Very near, towards the east, the Moon Valley is located in the Valle Fértil Department, which is one of the most picturesque areas of the province because of its beautiful landscape composed of sierras and cactuses. However, it is not possible to reach the place directly from Jachal. The shortest way to get to the Moon A LAND OF DINOSAURS The region has a lot to offer for those interested in paleontology and anthropology. There are internationally relevant sites, which in fact attract visitors from all over the world. In the mid of a barren land, wind erosion has carved bizarre formations in the sedimentary rocks that are millions of years old. In Talampaya, high reddish abysses enclose a deep gorge, and in the neighboring Ischigualasto clay rocky pillars and cliffs constitute the landscape. Both Talampaya and Ischigualasto have staged most relevant findings, unique pieces have been uncovered there. Pieces that lead mankind closer to the whole knowledge of its origins. However, these are not the only places that the region has to offer, there are many other sites that can be visited for those particularly interested in these matters. Valley from there is to go on northbound, along Route 40 up to Los Palacios (in the Province of La Rioja) and from there turn back south along Route 26. The easiest way from San Juan is along Route 141, to the east, and then Route 510, to the north, passing by Caucete. The town of San Agustín del Valle Fértil is an old settlement placed near the border with La Rioja, in the Quebrada de San Agustín (San Agustin Gorge), at the foothill of the Sierra de La Huerta. It is a quiet village -where visitors can enjoy its temperate climate- which depicts itself in different colors as the seasons go by. It is the gateway to the Parque Provincial Ischigualasto (Ischigualasto Provincial Park), also known as Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley). The place is worldwide renown because of the researches held there by paleontologists, geologists and naturalists from all around the world that have provided invaluable information that makes it possible to rebuild the best part the planet history. Ischigualasto is the only place on earth where it is possible to observe a full sequence of continental sediments, dating back to the Triassic Period, which consists of abundant fossils gathered in the same site due to continuous deposits during the whole period. Thus it allows to study the most important animal species transition in the history of the world: the replacement of the ancestral mammals for the dinosaurs, so as to unveil one of the deepest enigmas of the science. Studies are unfinished yet and some final answers lie still to be found. Ischigualasto has its reserved section in every textbook or scientific research related to the dinosaurs origin in the world. On glimpsing the arid environment that prevails there at present, where only cactuses and thorny shrubs can grow, it is hard to fancy that 225 million years ago the area was covered by a dense tropical canopy and an exuberant landscape composed of lakes and marshes, acacia woods, palm-trees and ferns which created the habitat for unimaginable creatures. This was, undoubtedly, the landscape during the Triassic Period, at the beginning of the Mesozoic Era (prior to the Jurassic Period). Many dinosaur species would stroll around: the Lagosuchus Talampayensis, the Eoraptor (only 1-meter/3-foot-long) and the gigantic Riojasaurus Incertus (12-meter/40-foot- long). But the dramatic movements suffered by the earth surface tragically changed the favorable life conditions that had prevailed for the preceding 180 million years. Life, at least as it had so far been know, extinguished. Thence, sediments deposited for ages over the surface covered the fossil remains, protecting them from the ageing action of time. Cuyo and The Andes 93

94 CUYO AND THE ANDES La Rioja Cuyo and The Andes The Province of La Rioja does not belong geographically to the region called Cuyo, but given the vicinity of San Juan main attractions, it becomes easily integrated to the former. Bordering with the Moon Valley, just across the provincial limit, you reach the Cañon de Talampaya (Talampaya Canyon). Its reddish 80-meter (265-foot) high walls were carved by wind erosion which created particular shapes such as: the friar, one of the three Wise Men, the cathedrals, the spikes, the manger, the castle, among others. The entrance to the park is located at a pace called La Puerta (the Entrance Gate), a 90-meter (300-foot) wide path that leads visitors to the Talampaya River bed. Talampaya, nowadays part of the Province of La Rioja, was in fact part of the Ischigualasto Formation. The researches in the area started in 1958, and over one hundred prehistoric reptile fossils were uncovered in less than two months. They belonged to the Permian and the Triassic Periods. Many of them had been so far absolutely unknown. It is possible to observe different species of living fauna such as: guanacos, hares, vizcachas, armadillos, pumas, wolves and birds such as condors, larks, eagles and eaglets. The park shows scarce vegetation and most of its surface has a moon-like aspect that has made it worldwide famous due to its beautiful red rock formations. To the natural attractions of the area, its cultural value must be added. Numerous cultural relics of peoples that inhabited the region a thousand million years ago are present in the reddish walls. A 13-meter (43-foot) long painting with lots of petrogliphs -perhaps the largest one found so far in Argentina along with many others spread in the site, make the set a piece of invaluable cultural patrimony. Leaving Talampaya northbound, the small town of Villa Unión appears submersed in a pleasant mountain valley crossed by the Bermejo or Vinchina River. It is located on a hill, which makes it possible to get a great view of the nice surrounding panorama consisting in croplands and woods framed by snow-capped peaks. There are also some fruit plantations, especially grapes. The village has a modest wine production. There are also some petrogliphs in a place called Los Colorados, some 8 km north from the urban area. It is interesting to visit also Chilecito, to the east of Villa Unión, through the attractive 'Cuesta de Miranda', one of the most important vial works in the region. It consists of a bending mountain road that runs over a cliff which shows deep valleys at the bottom and lies protected by the high rocky walls and the gargantuan steep mountain paths. In the way from Villa Unión to Chilecito the road passes by Nonogasta. The highest path in the way is situated at 2,020 meters (6,725 feet) above sea level, which makes it a perfect lookout. Chilecito is the second most important city in the province. A visit there is the perfect chance to spot one of the most typical places in the country. It is a beautiful small city nestled at the foothill of the Sierras de Famatina (average height: 1,100 meters/3,665 feet). It is not only an important commercial and industrial center but also the most popular summer resort in the province, only 192 km (120 miles) away from La Rioja. The town was founded in 1715 and it was the place were the first workers of the gold veins found in the Sierras de Famatina settled. As the first mining works started, the cable-car called 'La Mejicana-Chilecito' was inaugurated. The name of the town recalls the great number of Chilean miners who migrated here during the first stages of the mining development. Vineyards, and nut plantations skirt the entrance to the city. The old San Francisco Mill houses at present an Archaeological and Historic Museum. The building dates back to the XVII century and belonged to the founder s family. The surroundings are charming too. There are a quantity of small towns with colonial style churches and chapels, such as Los Sarmientos, with its old chapel whose wooden door was carved by local aborigines more than two centuries ago. Famatina is another of these small villages, settled by the so-called river and on the valley of the same name, protected by the Famatina and Velasco Hills. Its buildings are mostly old cottages and some modern constructions that provide an eclectic appearance to the town. It keeps some traces of its old mining past, such as El Totoral, a mineral foundry, and La Mejicana, a mine that is reached along a mountain road by 4WD vehicles only. To reach La Rioja from Chilecito, it is necessary to go all the way back to San Agustín del Valle Fértil, in order to take the north-eastbound route that leads to La Rioja. La Rioja is the capital of the province of the same name. It has an airport that is reached by regular flights from Buenos Aires and Córdoba. This old city, founded in 1591, shows at present a perfect blend of the most assorted architectural styles which clearly show the consecutive historic periods that the country has gone by. In the downtown area you find the colonial style Government House, the Cathedral, the Court Palace, the Town Hall and its main square called Plaza 25 de Mayo. It also has numerous museums, among which it is important to mention the Folkloric Museum housed in a 1850s manor; the Archaeological Museum Inca Huasi, that houses countless assets consisting in local aborigine pieces; the Historic Museum; and the Fine Arts Museum, which exhibits paintings by important local artists. There are a couple of interesting churches as well, such as the San Nicolás de Bari Cathedral and the San Francisco Convent. Among its most important festivities, the traditional 'Tinkunaco' or The Encounter is worth mentioning. It commemorates the peace treatment signed by the Spaniards and aborigines in It takes place on December 31st each year. It is a parade where the 'alféreces' (penitents of the San Nicolás de Bari Cathedral) and the 'allis' (penitents of the Niño Alcalde Church ) gather, they finally meet in front of the Government House, near midnight, on New Year s Eve. They all dress in old-fashioned garments typical of those times. 94

95 CUYO AND THE ANDES San Luis Located in the central-west of Argentina, the province has a strategic position that makes it the gateway to the region of Cuyo. It spreads from the western end of the Pampas to the sierras. Its landscape is mostly hilly. The city of San Luis is a small and quite provincial capital though used to the constant traffic of travelers going to Mendoza, San Juan and San Rafael, and from there to the Andean Range and into Chile and the Pacific Ocean. It was founded in 1594 by Luis Jufré de Loaysa y Meneses and rebuilt in It still keeps the typical features of a small XIX century Mediterranean city: a quiet life pace, the old colonial manors with ample courtyards that melt with the more modern buildings that gather mainly in the commercial and shopping streets. One of the most important historic buildings is its Cathedral. It is an eclectic masterpiece of architecture that was built between 1883 and 1944, with strong neoclassic features in its façade. It was built over the lot formerly occupied by Governor Dupuy s house, where General San Martín was a guest while he was getting ready for the military campaign across the Andes in which he intended to set free from the Spanish dominion to Chile, Bolivia and Peru, what he, in time, would accomplish. The cathedral is located opposite to Plaza Pringles,where, from the turn of the XX century onwards, all the commercial life of the city gathers, along the main street that leads directly to the train station. Though the main square at the time of the foundation of the city was situated where is nowadays placed the Plaza Independencia.Just opposite to it is the Santo Domingo Convent, the oldest building in town, built back in the XVIII century. At present the set includes the colonial style convent, a church more recently built. The old convent rooms now house a Handicraft Market and factory of carpets traditionally woven in the loom, widely known because of the excellent quality of its production. The Government House is also an interesting architectonic example -a palace-like building with a richly ornate façade and beautiful interior courtyards- that occupies the place formerly occupied by the Jesuit primary school, during the colonial times. The Train Station, built in 1903, boasts also a remarkable French academy style. 81 km (51 miles) from San Luis, a road that skirts the Sierras de San Luis and the Conlara River Valley reaches the town of Merlo, passing by La Toma, the national capital of the onyx, a green marble which is characteristic of the province. It is possible to see there the craftsmen s ateliers where very elaborate articles are made. Merlo is located in the area of the Comechingones Sierras and boasts an excellent microclimate that has given fame to this small but scenically beauty city which offer basic but abundant facilities for tourists, including casino, and hotels of different categories. Its architecture still shows some traces of the first times of the city such as the simple chapel located in front of the palm-covered main square. Upon returning to San Luis, the road leads to a region abundantly covered by palm-trees, in the surroundings of a small town called Papagayos, where nice palm leave crafts are produced. The Potrero de los Funes Dam, situated nearby, is a green valley surrounded by hill where there is a dam and a small resort with its houses and inns almost hidden among the trees. There is a very good 4-star hotel & casino in the area. Along the same road it is possible to visit the traditional summer resort preferred by the locals: El Volcán,a beautiful summer resort, at the foothill of the sierras and surrounded by lush vegetation. Another traditional summer resort is El Trapiche,a small hamlet of narrow and winding streets, repeatedly crossed by the river of the same name. The small settlement started in 1772, when they built there a trapiche (kind of mill to grind the minerals extracted from the mine) called Mina Carolina. 2 km (1.20 miles) away from El Trapiche, La Florida Dam was built. An it rendered possible the constitution if an important flora and fauna reserve around its artificial lake (800 sq hectares) can be seen. The mining town of Carolina is located to the north of El Trapiche. The rich mines of San Antonio de las Invernadas were discovered in From 1830 to 1850, the mine exploitation reached its peak, and the veins were completely emptied. Nowadays, there is only a kind of handicraft extraction by washing golden sands that keep some sediments of the rich mineral. The activity increases during January and February when the high level of the river makes the waters more productive. It is interesting to visit the Intihuasi Caves, situated 2 km (1.20 miles) away from Carolina and 1,715 meters (5,710 feet) above sea level. The word Intihuasi stands for the sun s house in Quichua. It is an important archaeological site that revealed interesting aspects of the aborigine culture of the Ayampitíns, descendants of the first human migrations into the American Continent. The cave presents a few pictographs and it is supposed to have been already inhabited by the year 6000 B.C. The Parque Nacional Sierra de las Quijadas (Las Quijadas Sierras National Park) is located 120 km (75 miles) north from the city of San Luis. It was created in 1991 and is one of the most important attractions in the province. It has a surface of 150,000 hectares covered by Mesozoic geologic formations of reddish and grayish sedimentary rock layers. Those rocks -eroded by wind and water for centuries- got quite particular shapes. The most remarkable example is the area called Potrero de Aguada, a sequence of terraces, cliffs and abysses. From the upper rim of this kind of amphitheater, it is possible to observe the highest mountain in the area: Mount Portillo (1,200 meters/3,996 feet). Near the western boundaries of the park there are a series of unconnected and mostly temporary small lagoons. They are scarcely deep and its volume depends on the waters provided by the Desaguadero River. This hydric system compounds the complex called Guanacache Lagoons. Vegetation there is scarce. It is mainly represented by rockroses, a great variety of shrubs and cactuses, white quebracho and species that are endemic in the region. Native fauna is also abundant in spite of the lack of water; it is important to mention some endangered species such as pumas, gray foxes, maras (a species of hares) and wildcats. The lizards are the most common reptiles and it is also possible to observe a wide variety of birds such as imposing Andean condors, ñandúes (rheas) and flamingos in the Guanacache Lagoons. Near the entrance gate there are some traces of the ancient aborigine inhabitants of the region. They are trenches dig in the soil that are called hornillos, allegedly belonging to the Huarpe aborigines, the first primitive inhabitants of the region. Some interesting fossils have been found there, belonging to two different species of prehistoric flying reptiles: the pterosauros. Only a few other specimens have been found in the rest of the world, which renders the Park most important from the paleontological Point of view. Cuyo and The Andes 95

96 CUYO AND THE ANDES Mendoza CITY TOUR AND SURROUNDINGS HALF DAY TOUR (3 hours). Itinerary: departure from hotel Foundational Museum San Francisco Ruins Shopping area - San Martín Square España Square Civic Center Government House San Martín Park - Cerro de la Gloria Amphitheater Frank Romero Day Malvinas Island Stadium - Return to hotel. WINERIES HALF DAY TOUR (4 hours). Total distance traveled: 70 km (44 miles). Itinerary: departure from hotel Visit to a winery (wine tasting included) Cipoletti Dam Carrodilla Virgin Church Return to hotel. Cuyo and The Andes PUENTE DEL INCA & ACONCAGUA FULL DAY TOUR (11 hours). Total distance traveled: 400 km (250 miles). Itinerary: departure from the hotel Potrerillos Uspallata Picheuta Bridge - Los Penitentes Ski Resort - Puente del Inca Aconcagua - Las Cuevas Christ The Redeemer Return to hotel. Note: the access to the Christ statue is subject to road and weather conditions. VILLAVICENCIO HALF DAY TOUR (4 hours). Total distance traveled: 138 km (86 miles). Itinerary: departure from the hotel Villavicencio Valley Panoramic Point from El Mirador Villavicencio Return to hotel. TUNUYAN AND TUPUNGATO FULL DAY TOUR (10 hours). Total distance traveled: 150 km (94 miles). Itinerary: departure from the hotel San José de Tupungato Mount Tupungato - San Carlos Tunuyán Manzano Histórico (Historic Apple-tree) Return to hotel. 96

97 SAN JUAN FULL DAY TOUR (10 hours). Total distance traveled: 360 km (225 miles). Itinerary: departure from hotel - San Juan City tour and its surroundings Cathedral Auditorium Ullum Dam Zonda s Valley Return to hotel. SAN RAFAEL - VALLE GRANDE Y CAÑON DEL ATUEL HALF DAY TOUR (4 hours). Total distance traveled: 60 km (38 miles). Itinerary: departure from hotel Atuel River Canyon Valle Grande Dam The Submarine lookout Rock Formations El Nihuil Hydroelectric Dam Cuesta de los Terneros Return to hotel. Note: this excursion can also be done from Mendoza as a full day tour. SAN RAFAEL CITY TOUR AND SURROUNDINGS HALF DAY TOUR (3 hours). Itinerary: departure from hotel Downtown Mariano Moreno Public Library Fine Arts Museum Cathedral Town Hall Greek Theater Chacho Santa Cruz Diamante River Natural History Museum Zoo Park Mariano Moreno Park Return to hotel. SAN RAFAEL HIGH MOUNTAIN FULL DAY TOUR (8 hours). Total distance traveled: 328 km (205 miles). Itinerary: departure from hotel Cuesta de los Terneros - El Sosneado White Lagoon - El Sosneado Lagoon Indian s Cave El Sosneado springs - Mount Overo Return to hotel. Cuyo and The Andes CUYO AND THE ANDES San Juan CITY TOUR HALF DAY TOUR (3 HOURS). Itinerary: departure from hotel Auditorium - Social Sciences Museum Sarmiento s House Cathedral Architecture and Engineering University Ullum Dam and Gorge Zonda Valley Return to hotel. 97

98 VALLE DEL ZONDA Y BODEGA HALF DAY TOUR (4 hours). Itinerary: departure from hotel Ullum Lake & Dam Zonda Valley Winery Return to hotel. MOON VALLEY AND TALAMPAYA 2-DAY TOUR. Total distance travel: 692 km (433 miles) Itinerary: departure from hotel Difunta Correa Shrine San Agustín del Valle Fértil (Accommodation) Ischigualasto Provincial Park Talampaya Canyon Return to hotel (or continuation to La Rioja). Note: the same tour can be performed the other way round, beginning in La Rioja. Cuyo and The Andes 98

99 CUYO AND THE ANDES Mendoza Park Hyatt ***** Address: Chile 1124 (5500) Mendoza Telephone: (0261) Fax: Web site: Hotels Aconcagua **** Address: San Lorenzo 545 (5501) Mendoza Telephone: (0261) Fax: Location: in the heart of the city, opposite Plaza Independencia. Accommodation: 186 rooms: 42 twin deluxe, 85 king deluxe, 44 parks, 11 executives, 2 diplomats, 1 presidential and 1 governor. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom with hair dryer and bathrobe, 2 telephone lines with DDI/DDN and 3 telephones, answering machine, individual air conditioning and heating, cable TV, safe box, executive bar and internet access. Facilities and services: 24 hs room service, laundry and dry cleaning service, babysitter, parking lot, rooms for disabled people and for non smokers, sauna, jacuzzi, Turkish bath, massages, gym with personal trainer, 2 floor casino, business center. Restaurant: 1 restaurant and 4 bars. Bistro M : offers refined cuisine accommpanied by various wines from the region. Las Terrazas del Plaza : offers different snacks and drinks. El Patio Café and Patisserie : offers coffee and various delikatessen. Uvas : offers a place to relax and enjoy cocktails. Alea Sports Bar : located in the casino, offers various snacks and drinks. Meeting facilities: Rooms Auditorium Banquets Cocktails Theatre De los Espejos Syrah Merlot Cabernet Web site: Location: in the city center, 500 metres from the commercial San Martín Street and the pedestrian Sarmiento Street. Built in: Remodelled in 1998 and 2001 Accommodation: 150 rooms and 9 suites. All rooms are supplied with: telephone with DDI/DDN, individual hot/cold air conditioning, cable TV, safe box, frigobar, internet access, fax available on request, large windows, amenities and hair dryer. The suites also include hydromassage, living room and desk. Facilities and services: 24 hs room service, laundry and dry cleaning service, 24 hours security parking lot, sauna, massotherapy, swimming pool, solarium, medical assistance. Restaurant: Los Parrales : offers international cuisine and regional food. Capacity: 70 people. It is also supplied with 2 private rooms for 10 people, used for lunch and dinner. Confiteria Horizonte : for breakfast and tea time. Capacity: 70 people. Meeting facilities: Rooms Auditorium Vendimia 500 Refugio 150 Nevado 40 Andino 60 Cuyo and The Andes Reina Victoria ***** Suites & Tower Address: San Juan 1127 (5500) Mendoza Telephone/Fax : (0261) Web site: Location: a few metres from the pedestrian Sarmineto street and the commercial area. Accommodation: 20 suites: junior suite, grand suite, family suite, queen suite, executive suite and deluxe suite. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom with hair dryer and telephone, air conditioning, heating, telephone with DDI/DDN, voice mail, colour cable TV, safe box, stereo, wake up call service, minibar, electric current: 220 V/50 hz, cooker with microwave oven, coffee machine and dishes, bar with wines. Facilities and services: business center, heated swimmig pool in the solarium, health club with sauna, jacuzzi, Finnish bathroom, massage and beauty salon, hairdresser, child care, indoor parking, laundry and dry cleaning service, 24 hs room service, closed TV security circuit, medical assistance, cellular phone rental, smoke and gas detectors. Restaurant: Restaurant & Bar Alexandrina. Meeting facilities: Manchester room: used for conferences, training courses and business meetings. Capacity: 35 people. Liverpool room: used for management and business meetings. Internacional **** Address: Sarmiento 720 (5500) Mendoza Telephone: (0261) Fax: Web site: Location: in Mendoza's city center. Accommodation: 60 rooms: 7 suites/apartments, 12 double, 35 twins, 6 executive singles. All rooms are supplied with: carpet, telephone with DDI/DDN, air conditioning, fan, heating, cable TV, safe box and frigobar. Facilities and services: 24 hs medical assistance, indoor parking lot, laundry and dry cleaning service, swimming pool with mini gym, babysitter, 24 hs room service, fax, internet, living room with cable TV. Restaurant: bar and salad bar 24 hs fast food. Meeting facilities: 3 rooms for events. 99

100 El Portal Suites Apart Hotel Address: Necochea 661 (5500) Mendoza Crillón *** Address: Perú 1065 (5500) Mendoza Telephone: (0261) Fax: Telephone / fax: (0261) Web site: Location: in the city center, opposite Plaza Chile. Accommodation: 26 suites with large and soundproof rooms: junior suites, senior suites, grand suites and El Portal suite. All rooms are supplied with: large bathrooms, hair dryer, telephone with DDI/DDN, air conditioning, independent heating, colour cable TV, safe box, frigobar, direct internet connection, kitchen, desk and a basket of dry fruits. Facilities and services: gym, laundry service, indoor garage, high speed elevators, 24 hs room service, medical assistance, business center. Restaurant: 1 Lobby bar. Meeting facilities: Conference room. Capacity: 100 people. Gran Hotel *** Mendoza Web site: Built in: 1978 Location: in the city center, 700 meters from San Martín Avenue and 400 meters from Sarmiento pedestrian Street. Accommodation: rooms: 3 singles, 60 doubles, 13 triples and 4 quadruples. All rooms are supplied with: carpet, private bathroom, telephone with DDI/DDN, air conditioning, central heating, colour cable TV and safe box. Facilities and services: child care, elevators, internet and fax access, 24 hs room service, medical assistance, parking lot, beauty salon, swimming pool. Restaurant: 1 restaurant. Capacity: 150 people. Meeting facilities: San José and Acuario rooms. Carollo *** Address: 25 de Mayo 1184 (5500) Mendoza Telephone / fax: (0261) /67/68/69 Address: Avenida España 1210 (5500) Mendoza Cuyo and The Andes Telephone: (0261) /2245 Fax: (0261) Web site: Location: in the center of the city, a few metres away from the pedestrian Sarmiento street. Accommodation: 80 rooms: standard, superior, apartaments and suites. All rooms are supplied with: telephone with DDI/DDN, individual controlled air conditioning and heating, colour cable TV, safe box, minibar. Facilities and services: 24 hs. room service, laundry and dry cleaning service, parking, internet service. Restaurant: one bar. Meeting facilities: Mendoza room: used for conferences. Capacity: 80 people. Vip Room: directory room. Capacity: 30 people. Executive Room: used for personal or management meetings. Princess *** Gran Hotel Web site: Built in: Remodelled in 1994 Location: in the city center, 600 meters from San Martín Avenue and Sarmiento pedestrian Street. Accommodation: 50 rooms and suites All rooms are supplied with: carpet, telephone with DDI/DDN, fax, air conditioning, central heating, colour cable TV and safe box. Facilities and services: free internet service and , swimming pool, garden, solarium, garage, laundry and dry cleaning service, room service, medical assistance. Meeting facilities: 1 meeting room. Capacity: 20 people. Provincial *** Mendoza Address: Belgrano 1259 (5500) Mendoza Address: 25 de Mayo 1168 (5500) Mendoza Telephone: (0261) Fax: Web site: Location: in the city center, a few metres away from the pedestrian Sarmiento street. Accommodation: rooms and suites. All rooms are supplied with: carpeting, private bathroom, hair dryer, telephone with DDI/DDN, air conditioning, heating, colour cable TV, safe box. Facilities and services: internet and service, 24 hs. room service, laundry and dry cleaning service, medical assistance, parking, swimming pool, garden. Restaurant: one restaurant and one bar. Meeting facilities: one meeting room. Telephone/Fax: (0261) / Web site: Location: 500 metres away from Plaza de la Independencia and 100 metres away from the pedestrian Sarmiento street. Accommodation: 40 rooms All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom with hair dryer, telephone with DDI/DDN, air conditioning, heating, colour cable TV, safe box, internet acces. Facilities and services: parking, fax service, internet connection, laundry service, living-room with TV. Restaurant: one restaurant and one bar. Meeting facilities: one meeting room. 100

101 CUYO AND THE ANDES San Juan Hotels Alkazar ***** Address: Laprida 82 Este (J5402DIB) San Juan Telephone: (0264) Fax: Capayán *** Address: Mitre 31 Este (J5402CWA) San Juan Telephone: (0264) Fax: Web site: Location: in the city center, near the commercial area. Accommodation: 96 rooms and 8 suites. All rooms are supplied with: telephone with DDI/DDN, fax, air conditioning, heating, colour cable TV, safe box, frigobar and electronic lock. Facilities and services: room service, swimming pool with solarium, sauna, vapour bath and Scotish shower, gym, indoor parking lot. Restaurant: 1 restaurant and 1 lobby bar El Portal. Meeting facilities: convention and banquet room. Location: in the city center, a few meters from the commercial district. Accommodation: 35 standard rooms. All rooms are supplied with: carpeting, private bathroom, telephone with DDI/DDN, air conditioning, heating, cable TV and minibar. Facilities and services: medical assistance, safe box, laundry service, parking lot. Restaurant: 1 cafeteria. Capacity: 30 people. Meeting facilities: VIP room. Capacity: 25 people. Conference room for events. Capacity: 80 people. Hostería Valle Fértil Address: Rivadavia s/n (5449), San Agustín del Valle Fértil Telephone / fax: (0264) /16/17 Location: in a beautiful valley near San Agustín Dam. Accommodation: 38 rooms: single, double, triple, 1 suite and 6 cottages, each one for 6 people. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom, heating and colour TV. All cottages are supplied with: private bathroom, heating, colour cable TV, microwave oven, kitchen and kitchen implements. Facilities and services: fax and internet service, swimming pool, solarium, recreation, horseback ridings, safari, bycicle rental. Meeting facilities: 1 functional restaurant. Cuyo and The Andes 101

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103 Southern Lakes The lake district gathers a set of unbelievable beautiful National Parks and its surroundings. Vast extensions of virgin woods, deep crystal-clear water lakes and the snowed peaks of the Andes are woven in an exceptionally attractive landscape that changes as the seasons go by. In winter, the mountains dress in white making ski an unavoidable passion. In springtime, the woods ornate with countless flowers creating a real symphony of colors. In summer, the exuberant woods turns into a tapestry of assorted greens. And once the fall arrives, the woods, that seem to get ready for winter in a last colorful effort, dyes its leaves with different shades of ochre, yellow and red contrasting with the everlasting green of the coihues. Neuquén The region goes from Lake Aluminé, in the northern end of the Province of Neuquén, Enlarged Area 22 La Angostura Zapala Cutral-Có Neuquén down to Lake Futalaufquen, in the Province of Chubut. Aluminé CHILE Lago Huechulafquen Lago Lácar Las Coloradas Piedra del Aguila Junín Martín de los Andes 237 San Martín de los Andes Embalse Alicurá Lago Nahuel Huapi Villa Rincón Chico Embalse Piedra del Aguila Picún Leufú Río Negro Southern Lakes Villa Llao Llao Lago Mascardi San Carlos de Bariloche Ing. Jacobacci El Bolsón Lago Puelo El Maitén Ñorquinco Cholila Gualjaina Chaitén Lago Futalaufquen Lago Futaleufú Esquel Trevelín Chubut Tecka 40 The scenic map of this district includes three major areas: San Martín de los Andes with its Lanín National Park, in Neuquén; San Carlos de Bariloche with its Nahuel Huapi National Park, in Río Negro; and finally El Bolsón with its Lake Puelo National Park, along with Esquel with its Los Alerces National Park, in Chubut Río Pico José de San Martín Scale in km N 103

104 SOUTHERN LAKES San Martín de los Andes Southern Lakes This charming village, located on the Lake Lacar shore, is the head of the Lanín National Park, which gathers twenty four glacial lakes. The city, counting with 25,000 inhabitants, receives several flights a week from Buenos Aires. It has good hotel infrastructure, many fine restaurants, tea houses, and several travel agencies that offer excursions in the surrounding areas, making it possible to reach spots which seem to be the natural habitat for peacefulness and beauty. The city is a quiet village, that leaves in perfect harmony with nature, taking care in not being the last ones to do it so as future generations may enjoy the same peace, the same bird singing, the same fluttering of the ducks over the lake waters, the same woods that have lived for thousands of years and that should live on long in the future. The calm and attractive beach called Playa Catritre, situated near downtown on the northeastern shore of the lake, is the perfect place for nautical sports. The Mirador Cerro Bandurrias (Stork Hill Lookout), situated nearby is easily accessible. A soft trekking leads to its summit, from where the panoramic view of the lake to the west and the city to the east is amazing. Further on, skirting the lake, a bend of the road leads to Quila Quina,a residential village where a few old aborigine huts, belonging to the Mapuche Curruhuinca group, can be observed. It is also possible to visit the Cascada Arroyo Grande (Large Creek Cascade), a natural carbonated water spring, as well as to admire some rupestrian paintings. Very near downtown, there is a pier, from where most boat-rides in the lake depart. There is a boat trip reaching Quila Quina, and another one going to Hua Hum, quite close to the Chilean border, where good rafting is available. However, the most important local attraction, specially during winter, is the ski resort of Mount Chapelco (2,441 meters/8,130 feet) situated only 20 minutes away from the city. It has more than 30 ski tracks, 10 ski lifts and a cable-car that reaches a coffee-shop, located at 1,600 meters Enlarged Area Río Bueno 5 Pto. Octay Llanquihue Pto. Varas Calbuco San Pablo Osorno 215 Lago Llanquihue Los Lagos Paillaco Lago Ranco Lago Ranco Entre Lagos Puerto Montt 7 Lago Chapo Ralún CHILE Futrono Lago Puyehue Lago Rupanco Lago Todos los Santos Peulla Petrohué Frutillar 5 Volcán Parque Osorno Nacional 2652 Pérez Rosales Parque Nacional Alerce Andino Parque Nacional Puyehue Puelo Po. Puyehue Lago Espejo Lago Lácar Pto. Blest Lago Hermoso Pto. Frías Po. Pérez Rosales ARGENTINA El Portezuelo 258 Lago Falkner Villa Mascardi Villegas San Martín de los Andes Lago Traful Lago Correntoso Villa La Angostura Parque Nacional Bosque de Arrayanes Monte Tronador 3460 Lago Fonk Lago J. A.Roca Lago Hess 234 Lago Martin Lago Gutiérrez Lago Steffen Lago Escondido Parque Nacional Lanín Traful Río Negro Río Foyel Scale in km Lago Meliquina Neuquén Lago Nahuel Huapi Llao Llao Lago Mascardi Lago Guillelmo Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi 40 San Carlos de Bariloche N 237 Villa Llanquin (5,330 feet) above sea level, offering an excellent panoramic view of the Andean peaks and Lanín Volcano. The resort is also attractive during summer as a center for alternative tourism: activities such as climbing, horseback riding, archery, mountain bike, hikes and 4WD-rides are available. Leaving the city northwards, you reach Lake Lolog, an ideal setting for sport fishing and big game hunting. The main prey are the wild boar and the red deer. Autumn is the hunting season and it is necessary to get hunting rights (information is available at the National Park Administration in San Martín de los Andes). From here, it is possible to visit Lakes Curruhué Chico and Curruhué Grande, from where, an attractive path, across a small araucaria ( monkey puzzle ) wood leads to Laguna Verde, a green-water lagoon surrounded by the weird scenery created by volcanic cinder-heaps produced by Mount Huanquihue near Lake Epulafquen. Within short distance, the Lahuen-co Hot Springs are accessible in the middle of a small marshy glacial valley. Back along the main road and further north, the small village of Junín de los Andes appears in the middle of an attractive valley. It is located only 40 Km (25 miles) away from San Martín de los Andes, by the Chimehuín River. It is a real paradise for fly-casters from around the world. Fly-casting fans date here 104

105 every year, from mid-november to mid-april, to visit the surrounding lakes, rivers and creeks and fish for assorted trout species, such as: rainbow, brown, brook and fontinalis. It is also necessary to get a fishing license, granted by the National Park Administration. The town counts on several good restaurants and a few hotels, but expert fishers prefer the lodges located near the fishing areas. Further north, the imposing snowed peak of the basalt coneshaped Lanín Volcano dominates the landscape from its 3,776 meters (12,570 feet) above sea level. At the volcano foothill stands Lake Huechulafquen. At the western end of the lake, there is a natural narrow passage called La Union that links it to Lake Paimún. On the lakeside there is a nice fishing lodge, framed by the most charming virgin nature. There are three different ways from San Martín de los Andes to Bariloche, the easiest one is leaving the city along Route 234 to detour shortly after towards the east, at Route 63 towards Lake Meliquina, Córdoba Pass and Confluencia, then the road follows along National Route 237, completely paved, up to Bariloche. The second alternative, partially paved, is to leave the city along National Route 234, detouring 77 km (48 miles) afterwards, at a place called El Portezuelo, to take Provincial Route 65 which skirting Lake Traful leads to Villa Traful. This is a small town plunged in the most pure nature, where the magnificence of the scenery, the crystal clear waters of Lake Traful, the perfumes of its plants and bushes and the abundant native flora will keep all your senses well engaged. Nearby, the Traful Lookout is located. It is a natural belvedere situated at a height of 70 meters (233 feet) over the cliff that offers a wondrous panoramic view of the lake. Skirting the lake this secondary route reaches the main route, National Route 237 at the place called Confluence, from where it leads finally to Bariloche, passing by Valle Encantado (Enchanted Valley). It is a section of the river valley where wind erosion has carved a series of GAME FISHING & HUNTING The Southern Lake region offers the best destination for game fishers from all over the world. The great variety of trout species makes the region a paradise for fly-casters that reach the area each summer to fish for the brook, particular formations in the rocks that reminds an browns, fontinalis and Amphitheater or Roman Circus, a God s finger, a couple of Siamese twin brothers and a sentry, among other steel-head trout species. Fishing season extends figures. The third alternative is the longest and most from mid-november to tortuous of them all, but it is also the most attractive mid-april. There are one. It is the so-called Seven Lake Road (National several 'estancias' and Route 234) which is usually closed in winter time, but fishing lodges that offer that in summer receives constant visits both from warm and comfortable Bariloche and San Martín de los Andes, in an effort to facilities for fishers. catch a few unforgettable glimpses of these charming Lanín National Park is panoramas. Of course, the road is named as it is after also well-known for its seven lakes that spread along the route: lakes Hermoso, good hunting. The wild Machónico, Escondido, Falkner, Villarino, Espejo and board and the deer are Correntoso. The road ends at the peaceful Villa la the main prey during fall. Angostura. This is a heavenly small town that spreads License is required both over the Nahuel Huapi Lake northern coast, from for fishing and hunting. where the route goes on paved up to Bariloche. Villa la Angostura is an idyllic town with a small shopping area and several inns and lodges offering very good facilities, scattered mostly on the lake shores. A pier located nearby is the departing point for lake excursions that lead to the Parque Nacional Bosque de Arrayanes (Myrtle Wood National Park), located in the Quetrihué Peninsula, though most people who visit the place do it from Bariloche. However, it is also possible to arrive there biking or hiking the 12 kilometers (7 miles) that separate it from the village. Leaving Villa la Angostura westbound, along the lake coast, Route 231 leads to Puyehue Pass and the Chilean Lake District. In the way there, there is a detour to Cerro Bayo ski resort. Its target is mostly for local demand, though it attracts every winter many people who prefer to avoid the crowds that gather in the major centers. Before reaching the basis, there is a small walking path to Bonito River Cascade whose white veil contrasts with the deep green of the surrounding woods. Going on westwards along Route 231, a bridge over the Correntoso Lake leads to Lake Espejo, from where there are only 32 kilometers (20 miles) left to the international border. Once you have gone through the migration formalities at the border, the route goes on also paved into Chile. The first attraction is the Puyehue Hot Spring Resort; and then the road continues to Osorno, Puerto Montt and Puerto Varas. Southern Lakes 105

106 SOUTHERN LAKES San Carlos de Bariloche Southern Lakes INCENTIVES The main cities offer good accommodation and all necessary facilities for mid-size to large Incentive Trips. It has also a very important variety of restaurants that offer the best of the local cuisine. The region offers a great array of activities that will undoubtedly meet all tastes: many lake excursions and overland sightseeing tours that make it possible to reach areas of incredible natural beauty will guarantee the success of your event. But it also offers assorted activities for the most energetic ones such as mountain-biking, trekking, playing golf or tennis, practicing some archery among others. Visiting a working Patagonian ranch will also become an interesting day out. The city is located on the southern margin of Nahuel Huapi Lake, 1,750 km (1094 miles) from Buenos Aires (two hours by plane). It is the head of the Nahuel Huapi National Park and the most important destination within the Lake Region and undoubtedly, on of the most visited tourist areas in Argentina. The city boasts a singular variety of hotels and first class tourist facilities that meet all budgets. There are still traces of the first pioneering Center-European immigrants that chose the area to settle. The scenery must have surely make them feel back at home. The typical constructions of stone and wood mingle with modern buildings, thus giving the city a very special touch. Visiting its surroundings will take several days since nature seems to know no limits in the assortment of attractions it offers thereby. The climate is continental cold, with a winter average temperature of 2º C and an average of 18º C in summer. Nahuel Huapi Lake is a huge glacial lake which results in the very irregular outline of its coast, drawn by several estuaries and peninsulas. It splits in seven arms, the main ones being Brazo Blest (Blest Arm) to the west, and Brazo Campanario (Campanario Arm) which extends towards Huemul Island, just opposite Playa Bonita, located 7 km (4 miles) away from Bariloche. 10 km (6 miles) further west, the Mount Campanario (1.050 m/3,500 ft.) is located. It is possible to get to the summit by a small chairlift. There is a coffee shop and, in spite of not being one of the higher mountains in the area, it offers a panoramic 360º view of the surrounding landscape, including: Victoria Island, Lakes Nahuel Huapi and Moreno, Llao Llao and San Pedro peninsulas, the city at its foothill and the high Andean peaks that shelter it towards the west and the south. It offers such a great view that it has been labeled by National Geographic as one of the best panoramic views in the world. It is part of the so-called Small Circuit, a sightseeing tour of the city and its main surrounding attractions, leaving the city along Bustillo Avenue. This road skirts the sinuous lake shore westwards. It leads to Puerto Pañuelo, located on Llao Llao Peninsula, which is the pier from which most lake excursions set sail, including the Lakes Crossing to Chile. It is important to highlight the St. Eduardo Chapel situated nearby and the imposing Llao Llao Hotel & Resort, Golf Spa, a top notch luxurious hotel, which after being closed for years, is nowadays one of the best hotels in the country. The road goes then over a bridge that crosses the Angostura River, at the confluence between Lakes Nahuel Huapi and Moreno. The panoramic point of Mount Capilla located there is worth a stop. From there, an 11-kilometer (7 miles) mountain road leads to the Refuge of Mount López. From the refuge, it is possible to go on to the summit only on foot. Once there, the panoramic view of the Andes is really outstanding. Climbig Mount López is one of the most popular trekking traverses in Argentina, since it does not require any special training. Anyone well fitted is able to conquer the summit. Near this mount basis, the small town of Colonia Suiza is located. In this place the Swiss and French traditions have been kept unchanged as from the first settlements at the beginning of the XX century. This is the perfect place to enjoy some of the delicious local pastries at one of its typical tea houses. A few kilometers away from Colonia Suiza, the Panoramic Point is also worth a stop. It is a natural balcony over Lake Moreno, which offers a very good sight of this lake, Lake Nahuel Huapi and their surrounding beauties. The 1,405-meter (4,679-foot) high Mount Otto is located 22 km (14 miles) from downtown. It has a revolving coffee-shop at its summit, which is reached by a cable car. It offers a good panoramic view of the area. Visitors will also be able to join numerous alternative activities such as trekking, paragliding, parachuting, mountain biking and horseback riding. The most important ski resort in Argentina, Cerro Catedral, is located 19 km (12 miles) from downtown. Villa Catedral located at its foothill gathers a set of hotels and all kind of facilities for skiers. Cerro Catedral stands for Mount Cathedral and it was named like this after the Gothic Cathedral shape of its peaks. The place is a paradise for skiers from around the world, where every winter the Snow Festival is held including a torch-lighted parade performed by expert skiers sliding down the slope. The village offers all necessary facilities: good hotel infrastructure, 35 ski lifts, restaurants and bars, ski schools, equipment rental, shops and public transportation that links the center to the city. During summer time, only a few chairlifts keep working and it turns into a chosen destination for trekkers. Frey Refuge is specially meant for them. It is 106

107 located on one of its summits, some 1,700 meters above the sea level, just a few meters before reaching one of the Gothic-like needles. One of the most interesting tours within Nahuel Huapi National Park is visiting Mount Tronador, situated 84 km southward from Bariloche. Its name originates in the thunderous bursts caused by the ice and snow breakings up in the summit glaciers which roll downslope. National Route 258 leads to the coasts of Lake Gutiérrez and Lake Mascardi, shortly after. Then, the paved route is left behind, as you take the gravel Route 254 that skirts Lake Mascardi and the Manso River, up to Pampa Linda. Then, continuing along Lake Moscos banks and Manso River, the road reaches Lake Hess and then Cascada de los Alerces (Larch-trees Cascade). Walking the remaining 300 meters (1,000 feet), the path leads to a magnificent lookout that offers a great view of the Manso River furiously pouring its waters among the rocks and down a 20 meter-high (67 foothigh) abyss. Another alternative, after leaving Pampa Linda behind, is crossing the bridge over the Manso River and the Vuriloches Valley towards the Ventisquero Negro (Black Glacier), part of the Manso Glacier. It is a huge mass of moving ice that has its source in the snow cap accumulated in the mountain crest and upper slopes. It name is due to the dark color it gets from the enormous concentration of sand, stones and dust that it drags as it slide downslope. This is the departing point for horseback ride or trekking excursions, specially to the Otto Meiling Refuge. Though, for the Ventisquero Negro, regular excursions go on to Mount Tronador foothill. There is thereby a nice coffee-shop and a hotel, where from the three peaks of this mountain can be observed: the Argentine Peak (3,410 m), the International Peak border line with Chile - (3,554 m/11,835 ft.) and the Chilean peak (3,430 m/11,420 ft.). An easy path starting here leads to Cascada de los Césares (Caesars Cascade), surrounded by the most unbelievable beautiful natural scenery. The place is ideal for trekking lovers, who during summer climb its slopes up to the basis of the glaciers that come down from the summit peaks. The most remarkable glacier is called Castaño Overo, after which the mountain has been named. The word Tronador stands for thunderous. When your are at the mount basis, roaring outbursts are heard and small snow avalanches are seen. From the distance they look like small transient clouds that vanish soon after arising far away in the high mountain. There are assorted trekking programs available for adventurers that vary from 2 to 6 days and its difficulty from level II to VI. A thrilling alternative is a 2- day northbound traverse from Pampa Linda, across the exuberant Valdivian Forest, up to Lake Frías. Once there it WINTER SPORTS Skiing has grown popularity during the last years. In the area of the lakes there are important ski resorts, such as: Cerro Catedral in Bariloche, the most important one in Argentina; Cerro Bayo in Villa La Angostura; La Hoya in Esquel; and Chapelco in San Martín de los Andes. Although the snowfall is notoriously unpredictable, the best season for snow is generally from June to September. All its ski resorts are well furbished and offer all the necessary facilities. is possible to take the Lake Crossing to Chile or back to Bariloche. Another interesting alternative for those visiting Mount Tronador is performing part of the tour by the 150- seat boat crossing Lake Mascardi. This lake is also called the Seven Colored Lake and is surrounded by a dense forest plenty of incredibly beautiful autochthonous species. This boat ride pierces the Andean Cordillera, sailing at the foothill of Mounts Bonete, del Viento and Punta Negra. This boat tour connects with the regular excursion and can be done either way. Those that visit the area by themselves should remember that there is only a one-way road up, thus it has fixed hours to ascend and descend: ascent up to 2 PM and descent as from 4 PM onwards. It is important to reconfirm the schedule before starting the journey. Manso River flows on the National Park southern border. It is one of the most rarely visited areas within the park thus it offers the tourist the untouched nature that makes it the perfect destination for eco-tourism, which is constantly spreading in search of new unexplored natural areas. Lake Steffen is the highlight in the area. It is reached by a narrow mountain road, usually not in very good conditions, which has specific times to ascend and descend. In this sector of Manso River white river rafting is available, as well as 4 WD traverses. The boat ride to Isla Victoria (Victoria Island) is another must for anyone visiting Bariloche. The tour sets sail at Puerto Pañuelo (Pañuelo Port), and after a 30-minute long navigation reaches Isla Victoria, whose rugged coasts, cliffs, shores and abundant native and exotic fauna render it notably attractive. The island is only partially accessible to visitors, since part of it is an intangible reserve. The exotic introduced species include: Emperor cormorants, peacocks, pheasants, woodpeckers and hummingbirds, among others. Also some 500-year-old rupestrian paintings have been found in the island. It is also interesting to take the chairlift to the summit of the 900-meter-high (2,300-foot-high) Mount Bella Vista, which climbs along a narrow tree-alley composed of centennial cypresses and coihues. Just opposite the island, the Parque Nacional Bosque de Arrayanes (Myrtle Wood National Park), located on the Quetrihué Peninsula, is the next stop of the tour. This wood has been declared Natural Monument since it represents a Southern Lakes 107

108 others. Many important cruises operate from its port for voyages into the worldwide famous Chilean Fjords. Those not willing to go on to Chile can just undo the way back to Bariloche. Southern Lakes canopy that is unique in the world. This is the only place or Earth where myrtle reach the size of a tree (average height : 18 meters), even if the species is, in fact, a shrub. Some specimens reaching a height of 25 meters have even been found here. These trees have an average life of 300 years. Another important excursion available in the lake is sailing along its Blest Arm, towards Puerto Blest (Blest Port), and from there, through Lake Frías, on the Chilean border, and further on. This excursion is known as Lake Crossing. During the navigation, which departs also from Puerto Pañuelo, it is possible to observe the Centinela Island, where the mortal remains of Mr. Francisco Pascasio Moreno lie buried. He was the creator of the Argentine National Park system. It is also possible to get impressive glimpses of the beautiful natural landscapes formed by the rocky peaks of Mounts López, Capilla, Millaqueo and the Islas Gemelas (Twin Islands). At this point the lake reaches its maximum depth: 464 meters (2,150 feet) under sea level. After a one-hour navigation, you reach Puerto Cántaros in Blest Bay. A stepped way leads to three lookouts that offer a great view of the thunderous Cascada de los Cántaros (Cántaros Cascade) which seems to emerge roaring from the green core of the woods. The walkway is a journey along the splendor and beauty of the Valdivian Forest, where assorted autochthonous species, which create a true jungle-like environment, can be admired: coihues, colihue canes, cypresses, and different species of vines. Finding such dense vegetation, basically tropical, at this southern latitude is really outstanding. Though rains here scale to a register of 3,500 mm a year. The road ends at the small Cántaros Lagoon, where the cascade has its source, which is sometimes frozen in winter. Puerto Blest, situated nearby, is the place where the catamaran will call next. Though it is possible to walk there, on instead, in order to get more closely in touch with the exuberant vegetation. Puerto Blest is a quiet place where there is a restaurant and a nice hotel. A 3-kilometer bus ride leads from there to Puerto Alegre, at Lake Frías head. Then a 20-minute boat ride will take you to Puerto Frías, where those going on to Chile will clear customs and fulfill the migratory formalities due. The international border pass, Vicente Pérez Rosales, is only 4 km away from there. This distance is traveled by bus. 27 km (17 miles) more take you then to the small Chilean hamlet of Peulla,where it is possible to spend a night or to go on directly to Puerto Peulla so as to set sail again along the Lago de Todos los Santos (All Saints Lake), belonging to the Vicente Perez Rosales National Park. A 2-hour navigation, particularly attractive because of the surrounding dense woods and the dominating images of impressive peaks such as: Puntiagudo Volcano (2,493 m/8,300 ft.), Mount Techado and finally Osorno Volcano (2,652 m/8,830 ft.), leads to Petrohué. The National Park Headquarters is located there. From there the tour goes on overland to Petrohué Falls,formed by the rugged volcanic riverbed of the Petrohue River at the point when it flows into the All Saints Lake. The river runs enclosed by high walls that show traces of their ancient dwellers: the glaciers. Petrohué is located 69 km (43 miles) from the city of Puerto Varas, which is beautifully framed against the impressive backdrop of the Osorno Volcano. It is known as the City of the Roses, because of the abundant rose bushes that ornate its streets rendering it a true garden. Puerto Varas is situated on the southwestern margin of Lake Llanquiue, only 22 km (14 miles) from Frutillar. This is another of the attractive inhabited centers spreading on the lake shores. Its lakeside avenue lined by pretty German style manors offers a magnificent view of the volcano. This is the best ranked summer resort in the Chilean lake region. The final stop of the Lake Crossing is the fishermen s village of Puerto Montt, located on a seaside plateau, on the northern coast of Reloncaví Sound, some 17 km (10 miles) away from Puerto Varas. This is an active commercial city, mainly devoted to tourism and fishing. It boasts a wide array of hotel and tourist facilities. It has also an important airport which links it to the most important Chilean cities: Santiago de Chile and Punta Arenas, among EL BOLSON It is a small town located only 181 km (113 miles) southwards from Bariloche, by National Route 258 (completely paved). The surrounding mountains shelter the city providing a special microclimate that allows an important production of fine fruits (strawberries, raspberries, cherries, blackberries, boysenberries, etc.) as well as hops (used in beer production), cheeses and home-made beer. In the 70s, it became home to many youngsters belonging to ecological and Hippie movements that fled from the strict and undesired social norms that ruled their lives in the cities. In 1984, it was declared a Non-Nuclear Zone so as to preserve the region free of radioactive contamination for future generations. It has become, therefore, the place chosen by those that wish to spend their holidays in touch with nature at its most pristine state. And lots that have come here on holidays have never been able to leave again. Consequently, its population is mainly composed of incredibly assorted people from all over the country. Going on southwards, and across the border between the provinces of Río Negro and Chubut you reach the place called El Hoyo de Epuyén', where some small farms offer their handicrafts and home-produced merchandises, such as: fruits, fruit jams and pure honey, among others. The next attraction is the Parque Nacional Lago Puelo (Lake Puelo National Park), amazing for the emerald green color of its waters. From El Bolsón you can also visit the small town of El Maitén, situated only 124 km (78 miles) away. The road runs parallel to several streams, to reach finally the Chubut River that skirts the route up to El Maitén. Another possible route is the one that leads to El Hoyo de Epuyén, and continues then skirting the Epuyén River where the sad traces of a huge forestal fire occurred some years ago can still be observed. The town is a peaceful village inhabited by some 3,000 people. It has become important for tourism because it is the departing station of the 'Old Patagonian Express', locally known as 'La Trochita', which formerly run between Esquel and Ingeniero Jacobacci. Nowadays it serves only two short tourist circuits, departing from El Maitén once a week (as well as from Esquel please check the corresponding section). From there you can continue to Esquel, located 190 km (119 miles) south from El Bolsón. 108

109 SOUTHERN LAKES Esquel It is situated 320 km (200 miles) south from Bariloche, and it is the head of the Parque Nacional Los Alerces (Larch-tree National Park). It is the perfect place for wildlife and ecology lovers. The city is sheltered by an amphitheater of mountains that surround it. The area offers several paths that are worth some hiking. Esquel is a land of legends that leads to adventure and where nature never fails to impress the visitor with its landscape of lakes, woods and rivers. Esquel is the terminal station of the Old Patagonian Express, locally known as La Trochita. It is one of the latest narrow-gauge trains in the world, which formerly run from this city to Ingeniero Jacobacci. Nowadays, it does not serve this route any longer, but it is possible to cover a 22-kilometer (14 miles) tourist circuit across the Patagonian steppe up to Nahuel Pan Station. This tour operates once a week. Nahuel Pan is a small Mapuche hamlet where it is possible to be in touch with the life, customs and handicrafts of local aborigines. In March, each year, they gather at the foot of the Nahuel Pan Hill to celebrate the camaruco, a ritual dance accompanied by the sound of their traditional music instruments, by which they pray God for a good year for their crops and other activities. Esquel has also its own ski resort called La Hoya,distant 13 km (8 miles) from the city. It lies on the slopes of a 2,150-meter-high (7,160 foot-high) mountain and its basis is located at 1,200 meters (3,995 feet) above sea level. Assorted winter sports are available from July to October. It has 60 hectares of ski slopes that offer excellent snow quality during these months. The Parque Nacional Los Alerces (Larch-tree National Park) is situated to the south of the city. The paved National Route 259 first, and a gravel road afterwards leads there. The latter part travels an amazingly beautiful scenery of lakes, rapids, cascades, and mountains. The largest lake is Lake Futalaufquen, around which the homonymous village is located, composed by a few inns and several campsites. The National Park was named after the millennial larch wood which is also its main attraction. The visit there is a full day tour. It sets sail at Puerto Limonao (Port Limonao) to navigate through Lake Futalaufquen, the Arrayanes River, Lakes Verde and Menéndez. When the level of the Arrayanes River waters do not allow navigation, the tour is done overland till Lake Menéndez, where you embark at Puerto Chucao (Port Chucao), to set sail from there towards the coasts of the 'Alerzal Milenario' (Millenarian Larch Wood). The visit is a walking tour. You must follow the delimited paths all the time, keeping the guide s instructions and avoiding leaving any trash there, since it is an intangible area of the national park where only strictly controlled sightseeing tours are permitted. This millennial wood is composed by three-meter across, up to 70 meter-high (233 foot-high) and 3,000 OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES This is an ideal area for practicing outdoor activities, from mountaineering to paragliding, trekking, climbing, 4WD drives, horseback riding, rafting in its mountain rivers or sailing in its lakes. The area offers alternatives year old larch specimens. The tree was highly rated as for everybody, from welltrained experts in the timber for carpentry at the beginning of the XX century which led to unchecked abuse and consequently different disciplines to the species ended up close to extinction. There are several other places within the park that are well-worth a amateur lovers of alternative tourism that are always in search of visit, such as: Mount 'Alto del Dedal', which offers an some new exciting interesting interpretative path that takes several hours, experience in touch with Lake Kruger, the Cascada del Tío Mindo (Uncle nature. The setting could Mindo s Cascade), a few rupestrian paintings and not be more suitable for some other imposing natural beauties. your enjoyment in touch The Welsh colony of Trevelín is located 23 km (14 with the most beautiful miles) south from Esquel, by National Route 259. Its combination of high name means The town of the Mill in Welsh language mountains, snowed and it was named like that after the first flour mill that capped peaks, strong operated there. The old red-bricked building of the streams and rivers, huge Old Flour Mill is nowadays a historic museum which lakes and dense native is worth a visit. It treasures interesting assets representative of the Welsh colonization. There are also woods. numerous tea-houses where the best of the Welsh pastry can be tasted, especially the so called black cake or Welsh cake. The same route leads to the artificial lake called Amutui Quimey, which means lost beauty in Mapuche language. The lake is the outcome of the huge dam of the Futaleufú Hydroelectric Power Plant, built in the 70s to supply electric power to the aluminum plant developed in Puerto Madryn. Guided tours to the complex are available. Co. Serrucho m Parque Nacional Lago Puelo Lago Menéndez Parque Nacional Los Alerces CHILE El Bolsón Lago Epuyén Epuyén 40 Cholila Lago Rivadavia Lago Futalaufquen Esquel Villa Futalaufquen La Portada Lago Trevelin Futaleufú (Amutui Quimay El Corcovado El Maitén Fitirhuin 40 Río Tecka 66 L. del Desierto Tecka Río Chico Río Negro Costa del Chubut 12 Chubut El Molle Paso del Sapo Río Chubut 12 Enlarged Area 50 Scale in km N Southern Lakes 109

110 SOUTHERN LAKES San Martín de los Andes QUILA QUINA HALF DAY TOUR (3 HOURS). Total distance traveled: 36 km (23 miles). Itinerary: Departure from hotel - Catritre Beach - Arroyo Grande Cascade - Carbonated water hot-spring Lake Lacar - Return to the hotel. Note: This tour is available by boat only in summer season (optional). MOUNT CHAPELCO HALF DAY TOUR (3 HOURS). Total distance traveled: 40 km (25 miles). Itinerary: Departure from hotel - Sightseeing tour Lake Lacar Mount Chapelco - Panoramic Lookout - Return to the hotel. Southern Lakes HUA HUM LACAR BALCONIES HALF DAY TOUR (3 HOURS). Total distance traveled: 80 km (50 miles). Itinerary: Departure from hotel Villa Trompul Hua Hum Chachín Cascade Return to the hotel. Optional: white-river rafting. Note: ID is required for this optional, since it crosses the Chilean border. HUA HUM BY BOAT FULL DAY TOUR (8 HOURS). Itinerary: Departure from hotel Embarkment at San Martín de los Andes Pier Navigation along Lake Lacar Chachín Cascade Hua Hum - Time at leisure for walks and exploration Return to the hotel. Optional: white-river rafting. Note: ID is required for this optional, since it crosses the Chilean border. HUECHULAFQUEN & LANIN VOLCANO FULL DAY TOUR (8 HOURS). Total distance traveled: 186 km (116 miles). Itinerary: Departure from hotel Chimehuín River Mouth Lanín Volcano - Lake Huechulafquen - La Unión Lake Paimún Lake - Cañicul Mapuche Community Junín de los Andes - Return to the hotel. 110

111 LAKE LOLOG & LAHUEN-CO HOT SPRINGS FULL DAY TOUR (8 HOURS). Total distance traveled: 156 km (98 miles). Itinerary: Departure from hotel - Lolog Lake Lakes Curruhué Chico and Curruhué Grande - Lake Epulafquen - Lahuen-co Hot Springs - Return to the hotel. SOUTHERN LAKES San Carlos de Bariloche SMALL CIRCUIT & PANORAMIC LOOKOUT HALF DAY TOUR (3 HOURS). Total distance traveled: 60 km (37 miles). Itinerary: Departure from hotel - Playa Bonita Mount Campanario Llao Llao Peninsula - San Pedro Peninsula - Puerto Pañuelo - Bay & Mount López - Panoramic Lookout - Return to the city. Optional: Chairlift ride to Mount Campanario. MOUNT CATEDRAL HALF DAY TOUR (3 HOURS). Total distance traveled: 46 km (29 miles). Itinerary: Departure from hotel - Playa Bonita - Salmon Station - Catedral Village Return to the hotel. Optional: Chairlift or cablecar ride to Mount Catedral. Southern Lakes PUERTO BLEST & CANTAROS CASCADE FULL DAY LAKE EXCURSION (8 HOURS). Itinerary: Departure from hotel Transfer to Puerto Pañuelo - Embarkment at Puerto Pañuelo pier Navigation along Arm Blest - Visit to Cántaros Cascade Frías Lake Navigation back to the pier Transfer to the hotel. Optional: Lunch in Puerto Blest. VICTORIA ISLAND & BOSQUE DE ARRAYANES NATIONAL PARK FULL DAY LAKE EXCURSION (7 HOURS). Itinerary: Departure from hotel Transfer to Puerto Pañuelo Embarkment at Puerto Pañuelo Pier Navigation to Victoria Island - Visit to the island and its tree nursery Embarkment and navigation to Quetrihué Peninsula pier - Visit the 'Bosque de Arrayanes' National Park Navigation back to the pier Transfer to the hotel. 111

112 HUEMUL ISLAND HALF DAY TOUR (3 HOURS). Itinerary: Embarkment at Pier San Carlos - Navigation to Huemul Island Interpretative Path- Myrtle tree wood Navigation back tot the pier. Important: Transfer hotel / pier / hotel is not included. MOUNT OTTO HALF DAY TOUR (3 HOURS). Total distance traveled: 44 km (27 miles). Itinerary: Departure from hotel Mount Otto - Cablecar ride Revolving coffee-shop - Return to the hotel. Southern Lakes GRAND CIRCUIT FULL DAY TOUR (8 HOURS). Total distance traveled: 235 km (147 miles). Itinerary: Departure from hotel - Limay River - Rincón Chico - Rincón Grande Enchanted Valley Amphitheater - Confluencia Lake Traful Villa Traful - Arrayán Pier Seven Lake Road - Villa La Angostura - Port Manzano - Huemul Peninsula - Return to the hotel. Optional: Lunch in Villa Traful or Villa La Angostura.(Note: This tour can turned into a 6-hour tour avoiding the stop for lunch). VILLA TRAFUL HALF DAY TOUR (6 HOURS). Total distance traveled: 190 km (119 miles). Itinerary: Departure from hotel - Limay River Rincón Chico Rincón Grande Enchanted Valley Amphitheater Confluencia Lake Traful Traful Lookout Villa Traful Return to hotel. VILLA LA ANGOSTURA HALF DAY TOUR (6 HOURS). Total distance traveled: 172 km (107 miles) Itinerary: Departure from hotel - Huemul Arm Nahuel Huapi Lake Port Manzano Villa La Angostura Return to the hotel. Optional: 'Bosque de Arrayanes' National Park SAN MARTIN DE LOS ANDES BY THE SEVEN LAKE ROAD FULL DAY TOUR (9 HOURS). Total distance traveled: 398 km (250 miles). Itinerary: Departure from hotel Lake Nahuel Huapi - Huemul Peninsula - Port Manzano - Villa La Angostura Seven Lakes Route Lake Correntoso Lake Espejo Ruca Malen Portezuelo Lake Escondido Lake Villarino Lake Falkner Lake Lacar - San Martín de los Andes Return through Paso Cordoba Pass Lake Meliquina - Confluencia Enchanted Valley - Return to hotel. 112

113 TRONADOR & LOS ALERCES CASCADE FULL DAY TOUR (8 HOURS). Total distance traveled: 83 km (52 miles). Itinerary: Departure from hotel Lake Gutierrez - Pilmayen and Melgarejo Streams Lake Mascardi - Manso River - Lake Los Moscos - Lake Hess Los Alercs Cascada Mount Tronador - Ventisquero Negro Glacier - Return to the hotel. Optional: Lunch in Pampa Linda, Tronador Hotel or Los Ventisqueros coffee-house. TRONADOR BY MASCARDI LAKE FULL DAY TOUR (8 HOURS). Total distance traveled: 83 km (52 miles). Itinerary: Departure from the hotel to the south - Gutierrez lake - Embark and navigation up to the Tronador hotel - Vuriloches valley - Pampa Linda Ventisquero Negro Glacier Navigation up to Mascardi village - Return to the hotel by land Optional: Lunch at Tronador Hotel. EL BOLSON FULL DAY TOUR (8 HOURS). Total distance traveled: 260 km (163 miles). Itinerary: Departure from hotel Lake Gutierrez Lake Mascardi and Guillermo - Pampa del Toro - Cañadón de la Mosca (Fly's Canyon) - El Bolsón - Epuyén Local farms Lake Puelo National Park Trout breeding station - Return to the hotel. Optional: Lunch. INTERNATIONAL LAKE CROSSING 2 OR 3 DAY TOUR. Itinerary: Departure from hotel Embarkment at Puerto Pañuelo - Navigation through Lake Nahuel Huapi - Puerto Blest - Transfer by bus to Puerto Alegre - Navigation through Lake Frías - Custom Clearance and Migration Formalities Transfer to Peulla Navigation through Lake Todos los Santos - Petrohue Falls - Bus to Puerto Varas or Puerto Montt. Note: One-day crossing operated only from September to Mid-April. The Lake Crossing operates Monday thru Saturday. Southern Lakes OVERLAND ANDINE CROSSING THROUGH PUYEHUE FULL DAY TOUR (10 HOURS). Total distance traveled: 440 km (275 miles). Itinerary: Departure from hotel - Port Manzano - Villa La Angostura Lakes Correntoso and Espejo Custom Clearance and Migration Formalities - Puyehue - Osorno Volcano - Puerto Varas or Puerto Montt - Return to the hotel.

114 SOUTHERN LAKES Esquel LOS ALERCES NATIONAL PARK FULL DAY TOUR (10 HOURS). Total distance traveled: 90 km (56 miles). Itinerary: Departure from hotel Los Alerces National Park Lake Futalaufquen Embarkment at Port Limonao - Arrayanes River Lake Menéndez - Torrecillas Glacier 'Alerzal' - Return to the hotel. Alternative: when the Arrayanes River level deter navigation the tour will embark at Port Chucao to sail only Lake Menéndez towards the 'Alerzal'. OLD PATAGONIAN EXPRESS TRAIN HALF DAY TOUR (2 HOURS). Itinerary: Departure from Esquel Station Train trip to Nahuel Pan Return to Esquel Station. Southern Lakes TREVELIN FUTALUFÚ HYDROELECTRIC DAM AMUTUI QUIMEY ARTIFICIAL LAKE HALF DAY TOUR (5 HOURS). Total distance traveled: 90 km (56 miles) Itinerary: Departure from hotel National Route 259 Futaleufú Hydroelectric Power Plant guided tour - Trevelín Old Mill Historic Museum Return to the hotel. Optional: Welsh tea at a traditional Trevelin Tea House. 114

115 SOUTHERN LAKES San Martín de los Andes Hotels Patagonia Plaza **** Address: Av.San Martín y Rivadavia (8370) San Martín de los Andes. Telephone/Fax: (02972) /284 Web site: Location: 500 metres away from Av. Costanera and Lacar lake. La Cheminée **** Address: Gral. Roca y Mariano Moreno (8370) San Martín de los Andes Telephone: (02972) Fax: Accommodation: 91 rooms: 51 doubles, 15 twins, 8 triples, 10 apartments, 6 suites and 1 presidential suite. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom, hydromassage, telephone with DDN/DDI, heating, CATV TV, minibar. Facilities and services: heated swimming pool, esthetics-massage, room service, e- mail service, laundry and dry cleaning service, parking. Restaurant: 1 coffee shop. Meeting facilities: 1 room for events. Capacity: 200 people. Le Châtelet **** Address: Villegas 650 (Q8970EKN) San Martín de los Andes Telephone: (02972) Fax: Web site: Location: in the center of San Martín de los Andes. Accommodation: 16 double and triple rooms and 3 apartments for 4 people. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom, hydromassage, telephone with DDI/DDN, fire place, colour cable TV, radio, programmed music system, minibar. Facilities and services: sauna, jacuzzi, heated swimming pool, individual heating, TV and fire place in the living-room, reading room, recreation room for children, parks and gardens, elevators, parking, 24 hours room service, laundry service, babysitter. Restaurant: 1 bar-restaurante. Meeting facilities: 1 functional room Le Village *** Address: Gral Roca 816 (Q8370ASP) San Martín de los Andes Telephone/Fax: (02972) / 7120 Southern Lakes Location: in the heart of San Martin de los Andes and 500 metres away from the Lake Lacar. Built in: 1992 Accommodation: 19 double rooms, 8 triples, 5 suites and apartments. All rooms are supplied with: carpeting, private bathroom, telephone with DDI/DDN, heating, fire place, cable TV and programmed music system. Facilities and services: gardens and parks, swimming pool, sauna, recreation room, babysitter, room service, laundry and dry cleaning service, parking, living-room with cable TV, fax, library, safe box, security service. Restaurant: 1 snack bar. Meeting facilities: 1 multiple use room Hostería La Masia *** Address: G. Obeid 811 (Q837ODZM) San Martín de los Andes Telephone/Fax: (02972) / 879 Web site: Built in: Location: in the residential area of San Martin de los Andes, 200 metres away from the main street, and 6 blocks away from Lacar lake. Easy acces to Mt. Chapelco and to different touristic attractions. Accommodation: single, double, triple and quadruple rooms. All rooms are supplied with: carpeting, private bathroom with bathtub, telephone with DDN/DDI, colour cable TV and programmed music system. Facilities and services: fax service, reception, safe box, indoor/outdoor parking, large park, paddle court, fire place in the living-room, recreation room, laundry service, 24 hs room service, tourist activities assessment. Restaurant: 1 bar and tea house for guests. 1 breakfast room. Web site: Location: in the center of San Martín de Los Andes. Accommodation: 23 rooms and 5 cottages for 6 people. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom, telephone with DDN/DDI, heating, colour cable TV, safe box, programmed music sysmet, purifying extractor. All cottages are supplied with: colour cable TV, programmed music system, kitchenette, dishes, microwave oven. Facilities and services: fax and internet, parking, security service, parks and gardens, sauna, library, room service, optional laundry service, optional babysitter, elevators. Restaurant: 24 hours open bar. Special area for barbecues and/or other meals. Meeting facilities: 1 multiple use room Caupolicán *** Address: Av.San Martín 969 (Q8370EJI) San Martín de los Andes. Telephone: (02972) Fax: (02972) Web site: Location: in the centric area of San Martín de los Andes. Accommodation: 35 rooms. All rooms are supplied with: carpeting, private bathroom, telephone with DDN/DDI, heating, colour TV, programmed music system. Facilities and services: parking lot, laundry and dry cleaning service, safe box, Finish sauna, recreation room, living-room and VCR, 24 hours hot water, elevators. Restaurant: 1 snack bar and 1 breakfast room. 115

116 SOUTHERN LAKES Bariloche Hotels Llao Llao ***** Hotel & Resort Address: Av.Ezequiel Bustillos km 25 (R8409ALN) San Carlos de Bariloche Edelweiss ***** Address: San Martín 202 (R8400ALP) San Carlos de Bariloche Telephone: (02944) Fax: Southern Lakes Telephone: (02944) Fax: (02944) Web site: Built in: Remodelled in Location: by Lake Nahuel Huapi, 25 km from Bariloche city center. Accommodation: 147 double rooms, 11 suites and 1 cottage. All rooms are supplied with: telephone with DDI/DDN, colour cable TV, safe box and minibar. Superior suites are supplied with fireplace and balcony. Facilities and services: parking, fax and computer service, 24 hs room service, kids club Nahuelitos, beauty salon, gym, heated swimming pool, hydrogym, sauna, relax room, aerobics room and gym; yoga, gym, stretching, step, slide, salsa, tango and flamenco lessons; pool, metegol and ping-pong tournaments; bingo, darts, card games and bridge room; reading room; recreation room, tennis, paddle, mountain bike, hiking, archery, windsurf, canoes, rappel and tyroless; golf lessons. Restaurant: Los Cesares café : offers a special menu with regional and international selected meals. Patagonia coffee restaurant. Meeting facilities: Room Theatre School Banquet Cocktail W/a N/a W/a N/a Llao Llao Bustillo Alerce Cipres W/a: with audiovisuals. N/a: without audiovisuals. Web site: Location: in the city center, 100 meters from the Civic Center and the commercial area. Accommodation: 100 rooms: 88 singles or doubles, 6 suites and 6 apartments. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom, telephone with DDI/DDN, central heating, colour cable TV, digital safe box, minibar, magnetic lock. All suites include bathroom with hydromassage, bathrobes and slippers, fax, desk, coffee machine. Facilities and services: indoor heated swimming pool, sauna and massages, beauty salon, hairdresser, 24 hs room service, fax service. Restaurant: La Tavola : offers regional food, rich in herbal and wild fruit flavours. El Patio coffee-restaurant: offers an area to rest or have a drink. Meeting facilities: Amancay room. Capacity: 80 people. Quintral room. Capacity: 120 people. Cóndor room. Capacity: 300 people. Rooms Banquets Cocktails Classroom Cóndor Quintral Amancay Panamericano ***** Bariloche Address: Av.San Martín 536/70 (R8400ALS) San Carlos de Bariloche. La Cascada ***** Address: Av. Ezequiel Bustillo, km 6 (8400) San Carlos de Bariloche. Telephone: (02944) Fax: Web site: Built in: Location: 6 km from San Carlos de Bariloche, opposite Lake Nahuel Huapi. Accommodation: 25 rooms and suites: 12 standard doubles overlooking the forest, 9 superior doubles overlooking the lake, 2 grey suites overlooking the lake, 1 camelia suite, 1 imperial suite and apartments (connecting rooms). All rooms are supplied with: carpeting, private bathroom with jacuzzi, secador de cabello y batas apedido, telephone with DDI/DDN, heating, colour cable TV, safe box and sommier beds. Facilities and services: parking lot, private beach, indoor heated swimming pool, solarium, massages and sauna, gym, living room with fire place, playroom, 24 hs room service, laundry and dry cleaning service. Services at reception on request: hairdresser, child care, horseback riding lessons, fishing guide, etc. Restaurant: 1 restaurant where you can taste regional and international food. Capacity: 28 people. 1 cafeteria bar: offers exquisite and traditional alpine pastry. Meeting facilities: Convention room. Capacity: 90 people. Telephone: (02944) / 5850 Fax: Web site: Location: by Lake Nahuel Huapi, near the Civic Center and a few metres from the commercial area. Accommodation: 300 rooms: 4 suites, 4 junior suites, 7 apartaments for 4 people, 147 rooms with lake view, 110 rooms overlooking the mountains, 27 triple rooms and 1 presidential room. All rooms are supplied with: telephone with DDI/DDN, colour cable TV, safe box, radio and minibar. Facilities and services: 24 hs room service, heated swimming pool, solarium, sauna, massages, beauty salon, hairdresser, kids activities, commercial gallery, parking, casino, internet access, laundry and dry cleaning service. Restaurant: Las Aljabas : offers regional meals from the Andes mountain range. El Patacón : offers traditional grilled Argentine meat and international cuisine. Lobby bar : offers different kind of drinks and snacks. Meeting facilities: Rooms Banquets Receptions Auditorium School Las Americas Las Americas con foyer Los Jardines / Los Puentes 80/ / /80 70/40 Los Maitenes / Los Arrayanes 60/80 80/90 90/70 50/40 Los Radales / Los Alerces /50 35/20 Los Cohiues / Los Ñires

117 Tunquelén **** Address: Av. Ezequiel Bustillo, km 24.5 (8400) San Carlos de Bariloche Telephone / fax: (02944) / Tres Reyes **** Address: 12 de Octubre 135 (R8400AAB) San Carlos de Bariloche Telephone: (02944) Fax: Web site: Location: in the Llao Llao Peninsula area, 24.5 km from the center of San Carlos de Bariloche, by Lake Nahuel Huapi. Accommodation: 31 rooms, 1 suite and 8 apartments. All rooms are supplied with: carpeting, private bathroom with hair dryer, bathrobe and amenities, telephone with DDI/DDN, heating, colour cable TV and programmed music system. Facilities and services: private sports port with beach, fishing, hunting, trekking, horseback riding, tennis, golf, windsurf, indoor heated swimming pool, sauna, massage room, Scotish shower, playroom, parking lot, safe box, laundry service, room service, babysitter, newspaper delivery on request, children club. Restaurant: 1 restaurant. Capacity: 80 people. 1 piano bar. Meeting facilities: 1 Convention center. Capacity: 400 people Nevada **** Web site: Built in: The hotel is constantly remodelled. Location: on the Costanera Avenue, opposite Lake Nahuel Huapi, 100 meters from the commercial area and the Civic Center. Accommodation: 55 rooms: singles, doubles, triples standard overlooking the garden or the lateral street and special triple rooms overlooking the lake. 1 suite overlooking the lake. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom with hair dryer, telephone with DDI/DDN, central heating and cable TV. The suite also includes frigobar. Facilities and services: 24 hs room service, parking lot, laundry and dry cleaning service, large garden, internet connection, business room, safe box, security service. Restaurant: 1 bar. Meeting facilities: Melchor room: offers a meeting area. Capacity: 35 people. Address: Rolando 250 (R8400GQF) San Carlos de Bariloche Telephone: (02944) Fax: Nahuel Huapi **** Address: F. P. Moreno 252 (R8400AMF) San Carlos de Bariloche. Telephone: (02944) / / Southern Lakes Web site: Built in: The hotel is remodelled every year. Location: in the city center of San Carlos de Bariloche, a few minutes from the commercial and financial area, as well as the historic area and the tousitic attractions. Accommodation: 81 rooms: standard, superior and junior suites. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom with bath tub and hair dryer, telephone with DDI/DDN, automatic alarm clock, colour TV with CATV, programmed music system, minibar, PC connection and sommier beds. Facilities and services: passenger medical assistance, 24 hs room service, gym, library, large screen cinema, playroom, business center, safe box, laundry and dry cleaning service, parking lot. Transfer service on request at the reception. Restaurant: Lobby bar and Mediterraneo Ristorante. Capacity: 125 people. Meeting facilities: Rooms Auditorium School Cocktail Arrayán Alerce Araucaria Web site: Location: in the heart of Bariloche city, 200 metres away from the civic center. Accommodation: 59 rooms and 6 suites: 47 standard rooms, 12 superior rooms and 6 junior suites. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom, telephone with DDI/DDN, automatic wake up call service, central heating, colour cable TV, minibar, modem connection, luggage-rack, chest of drawers and sommier. Facilities and services: safe box, indoor/outdoor parking lot, luggage-rack, 24 hs room service, internet and service. Restaurant: Del Lago : offers fixed menu, executive menu and a la carte menu. Bar. Meeting facilities: Room School Auditorium Imperial Banquet Nahuel El Monasterio **** Address: F. Los Pioneros Avenue Km 4700 (8400) - San Carlos de Bariloche Telephone: (02944) /5 Web site: Built in: Remodelled from 1950 onwards. Location: on the hillside of Mt. Otto and 4 km away from the city center. Accommodation: 10 rooms, 4 duplex and 2 cottages. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom, telephone, heating, colour cable TV, sommier beds. Facilities and services: room service, swimming pool, gym, minispa, solarium, internet connection, fax service, medical assistance, parking, 24 hours security, laundry and dry cleaning service. Restaurant: 1 restaurant. Capacity: 80 people. 1 bar. Meeting facilities: the restaurante can be used for different events. Sunset **** Address: Sgto. Rolando 132 (R8400GQD) San Carlos de Bariloche Telephone: (02944) Fax: Web site: Location: 100 metres away from 12 de Octubre Avenue and Lake Nahuel Huapi. Accommodation: 80 rooms with out/in view. All rooms are supplied with: carpeting, telephone with DDI/DDN, heating, colour cable TV, sommier beds. Facilities and services: 24 hours room service, dry sauna, relax and massage room, internet acces, parking, safe box, security service, medical assistance. Restaurant: 1 lake view restaurant and cafeteria. Meeting facilities: one room for conferences and seminaries. Capacity: 80 people. 117

118 Nido del Cóndor ***** Resort & Spa Address: Av.Bustillo km 6.9 (R8402AEQ) San Carlos de Bariloche Aconcagua *** Address: San Martín Avenue 289 (R8400ALC) San Carlos de Bariloche Telephone: (02944) /718 Telephone: (02944) Fax: Web site: Built in: July, Location: opposite Lake Nahuel Huapi, 5 minutes from the center of San Carlos de Bariloche and 400 meters from the best beaches in the area. Accommodation: deluxe cottages, deluxe suites, suites, junior suites, all overlooking the lake and studios overlooking the woods. All rooms are supplied with: hyrdromassage, telephone with DDI/DDN, colour cable TV with VCR, safe box, minibar, internet connection, king or queen size sommier, fire place, private hall. Facilities and services: parking lot, spa, health club, heated swimming pool and jacuzzi, dry sauna, Finnish bath, Scottish shower, solarium, laundry and dry cleaning service, 24 hs room service, playroom, facilities for disabled people, library, video room, transfers, private cypress woods, sport activities: ski, mountain bike, walks, cycling, rappel, tennis matches or lessons, horseback ridings, kayaking. Restaurant: El Patacón : offers a spectacular view of Lake Nahuel Huapi and a high international cuisine level. Meeting facilities: 3 rooms in the El Patacón restaurant used for conferences and events. Capacity: 300 people. Patagonia *** Location: 100 metres away from the Civic Center and 200 metres from the Casino. Accommodation: 32 rooms: 16 doubles and triples with lake view and 16 with street view. All rooms are supplied with: carpeting, private bathroom, telephone with DDI/DDN, colour cable TV. Facilities and services: laundry service, 24 hours room service, safe box, parking, babysittter. Restaurant: 1 snak bar Esquel (Province of Chubut) Tehuelche **** Address: 9 de Julio 831 (U9200AEQ) Esquel Telephone / fax: (02945) /421 Southern Lakes Address: Ezequiel Bustillo Avenue 1300 (R8400AES) San Carlos de Bariloche Telephone: (02944) Fax: Web site: Location: by Lake Nahuel Huapi, a few blocks away from the center of the city. Accommodation: 56 lake view rooms. All rooms are supplied with: telephone with DDI/DDN, heating, cable TV, safe box. Facilities and services: parking, private acces to the lake, public telephone, fax, e- mail and internet service. Restaurant: 1 restaurante Web site: Location: in the city center of Esquel, 100 meters from 25 de Mayo Avenue. Accommodation: 55 room including doubles, triples, suites and 2 apartments. All rooms are supplied with: carpeting, private bathroom, telephone with direct call, heating, colour cable TV and programmed music system. Facilities and services: laundry service, national and international fax service, message service, internet connection, safe box at front desk, parking lot, room service. Restaurant: 1 restaurant with international cuisine and 1 cafeteria. Capacity: 100 people. Meeting facilities: White room: convention room. Capacity: 150 people. Business office: used for meetings. Capacity: 10 people. Cristal **** Address: Av.Bartolomé Mitre 355 (R8400AHG) San Carlos de Bariloche Telephone / fax: (02944) Hostería Cumbres Blancas Address: Av.Ameghino 1683 (U9200BBD) - Esquel. Telephone/Fax: (02945) /200/300/400 Web site: Location: near the center of the city and Esquel stream. Accommodation: 20 rooms: 19 rooms and 1 suite La Cumbre. All rooms are supplied with: telephone with DDN/DDI, colour TV and safe box. Facilities and services: relax room, sauna, Finish bath, Scotish shower, living-room with fire place. Restaurant: Las Piedras restaurant: offers specialities with regional products. 1 bar. Web site: Location: in the city center, on the main street. Accommodation: 40 classic rooms overlooking the back and inside of the building and superior rooms overlooking the front. All rooms are supplied with: carpeting, telephone with DDI/DDN, heating, colour cable TV, safe box, frigobar and sommiers. Facilities and services: laundry service, parking lot, 24 hs room service, fax and internet service. Restaurant: Lobby bar with piano and La Cascada restaurant. Meeting facilities: 1 room for events. 118

119 Central Patagonia The history of the evolution of the earth left its traces on this so special strip of land that extends from the Atlantic Ocean to the Andes. Its rugged coasts outlined by several gulfs, bays, estuaries and cliffs that plunge into the green waters of the Argentine Sea make an exceptionally beautiful natural reserve of invaluable species. They must be protected in order to safeguard its survival: Southern Right Whales, Sea Elephant and Sea Lions, Magellan Penguins, and countless marine bird species such as: cormorants, petrels, oystercatchers and albatrosses, among others. But also the steppe counts on amazing autochthonous species such as guanacos and ñandues (or rheas). However the coast is not all what this sector of Patagonia has to offer. Piercing into the central plateau is a virtual voyage into the past of flora and fauna, of the earth and of mankind. A land of legend where millenary petrified woods, marine fossils outstanding for having been found so far away from the sea, relics of prehistoric plants and animals, bluish glaciers formed by the patient labor of the centuries up in the high Andean peaks, and ancient rupestrian paintings sheltered in the same caves that protected their primitive inhabitants, seem to talk about old stories that date back to immemorial times. A time odyssey that, on the coast, in the ecologists careful toil, casts light into the future. CHILE 234 Va. La Angostura Pto. Aisén Coihaique Copahue Caviahue Zapala El Bolsón Chos Malal Neuquén 40 El Maitén Leleque Cutral-Có Junín de los Andes San Carlos de Bariloche Esquel Trevelín Río Neuquén Neuquén San Martín de los Andes Tecka 25 Paso de Indios José de San Martín Gran Laguna Salada 40 Paso Coihaique Río Mayo Sarmiento 25 de Mayo Cipoletti Villa Regina Gral. Roca Va. El Chocón Río Limay Ing. Jacobacci 12 Lago Musters 151 Río Negro Chubut Río Chubut Lago Collué Huapi Río Chico Las Grutas Sierra Grande Puerto Madryn Camarones Comodoro Rivadavia Gral. Acha San Antonio Oeste Trelew Gaiman Las Plumas Lag. Urre Lauquen Lag. La Amarga 22 Choele-Choel Gral. Conesa Golfo San José Rawson Pta. Tombo Lago Caleta Olivia Golfo San Jorge Buenos Aires Las Heras 43 Cañadón Seco Perito Moreno Pico Los Antiguos Truncado Fitz Roy Chile Chico Cabo Blanco 40 Lago Pueyrredón 12 Puerto Deseado Cochrane Bajo Caracoles Lago Posadas 66 Santa Cruz La Pampa Bahía Bustamante Bahía Blanca Río Colorado Río Negro Viedma Golfo San Matías Enlarged Area Carmen de Patagones Punta Norte Pla. Valdés Golfo Punta Delgada Nuevo Pto. Pirámide Punta Ninfa Atlantic Ocean 3 Central Patagonia The most important tourist cities of this area are: Puerto Madryn, in the Península Valdés area, with the highest concentracion of marine fauna. Trelew, with an important airport, gateway to the Península Valdés Area. Comodoro Rivadavia, national oil capital. Lago Cardiel Lago San Martín Gobernador Gregores Puerto San Julián Río Chico El Chaltén 288 Mte.Fitz Roy m Cdte. Luis Lago Viedma Piedra Buena 3 Scale in km N 119

120 CENTRAL PATAGONIA Trelew Even if the administrative capital of the province of Chubut is Rawson, Trelew is its most important industrial and commercial center. It is strategically located at the hub of an important vial network with routes that lead to Puerto Madryn, Rawson, Gaiman, Esquel, Comodoro Rivadavia and other important towns. It is the gateway to the area since many visitors reach its airport in daily 2-hour flights from Buenos Aires and from other important destinations in Patagonia. The city is situated 1,470 km (920 miles) away from Buenos Aires. Its main attraction is, beyond any doubt, the Paleontological Museum Egidio Feruglio which offers a didactic exhibition of fauna and flora fossils that make it possible to rebuild the successive stages in the evolution of this extreme sector of the continent. This museum is the most important of its kind in Latin America. The city itself is not really attractive. It is just a modern industrial city, developed thanks to several plans to promote the creation of an industrial focus in Patagonia. The city of Rawson is located 20 km away. It was founded by Welsh settlers that disembarked in Golfo Nuevo in Located on the Atlantic Ocean coast, it is the administrative capital of Chubut; it has an important port, and the picturesque Playa Unión, a beach from where boat rides to spot toninas overas (small species of dolphins known as Commerson s dolphins) set sail. The Welsh colony of Gaiman is located 16 km (10 miles) west from Trelew, on the banks of the Chubut River, in the mid-inferior valley. Famous for its Welsh-style constructions dating back to the XIX century, it offers the chance to taste some delicious Welsh Tea at some of its traditional tea houses. They still prepare exquisite pastries and jams according to old family recipes transmitted generation after generation. Some of its chapels and farms are also worth a visit. The Bryn Gwyn Paleontological Park,situated very near the town, is a real open air museum which offers a view of the latest 40 million years of the earth history, along a 1- kilometer path which also offers beautiful views of the Patagonian sandstone hills and the rolling plains of the Chubut River Valley: the Welsh s Cwn Hyfrwd ( Beautiful Valley ). The river has its source far away, in the immensity of the Patagonian steppe, and cuts through the plateau, forming in its middlecourse an impressive canyon named Valle de Los Altares ('Valley of the Altars'), where the centennial hard work of the water has carved deep white and reddish ravines. The river finally floods in the large artificial lake of the Florentino Ameghino Dam, which provides water and energy to Trelew, Rawson, Puerto Madryn and Comodoro Rivadavia. It was originally built to cope with the floods that periodically damaged the crops of the Inferior Valley. CENTRAL PATAGONIA Puerto Madryn Puerto Madryn is, however, the most important tourist center. It is located on the coast of Golfo Nuevo, protected by the Patagonian steppe hills at its back and facing the intense cobalt blue of the ocean. It is 66 km (41 miles) from Trelew and 1,400 km (875 miles) from Buenos Aires. The Welsh settlers named it after a Welsh castle settled there that belonged to Sir Jones Parry Madryn who made an agreement with the government in 1863 for the settlement of colonies in this area. Puerto Madryn is attractive mainly due to its nearby marine fauna reserves, but it is also the capital of subaquatic activities. The calm and transparent waters of the gulf, with an average temperature of 17º C in summer, permit the penetration of sunlight to a depth of 70 meters (230 feet), making it the ideal environment for submarine exploration and photography. Led by expert diver guides, you can visit different submarine parks. Many local companies offer the Submarine Baptism, which does not require any kind of special previous training. The city itself and its outskirts offer a series of perfect sites to get involved in the matter of marine life and ecology. There is an interesting Oceanographic and Natural Science Museum and the modern 'Ecocentro', an interactive interpretative center that allows visitors to get in touch with local wild life, to learn and understand its habits and behavior and the importance of its protection. Talking with some of its expert guides will surely convey their love for nature to every visitor. Going on southward along a winding gravel road, 17 km (10 miles) away from Puerto Madryn, the Punta Loma Fauna Reserve is reached. There, onehaired sea lions (Otaria Flavescens) gather yearround over the rocky headlands and dark sand and pebble beaches, that are observed from two decks suspended at a height of 15-meters (50 feet) over the sea. During winter, Punta Loma receives migrations from Punta Norte and Punta Pirámides. It is particularly interesting the breeding time, which occurs in January each year, and the mating, just a few days later. Fierce fighting among males who struggle to gain their harem, so as to math as many females as possible, precedes the mating. Males reach the a 120

121 weight of 300 kilos (660 ponds), while females maximum weight is about 100 kilos (220 pounds) and the offspring at birth no more than 12 kilos (26 pounds). This visit can be done along with an interesting 4- WD excursion to 'Cerro Avanzado', passing by 'Estancia San Guillermo', along which wonderful views of the Patagonian coasts can be admired. There is another reserve, situated 77 km (55 miles) southwards from Punta Loma. It is the 'Scientific Reserve of Punta León', natural habitat of sea lions, sea elephants and several bird species. It is necessary to obtain a previous permit to visit this reserve. Leaving the city northbound, a gravel road leads to 'Playa del Doradillo', a peaceful golden-sand beach that becomes a paradise during the whale season. These huge sea mammals come incredibly close to the seashore because this protected bay, where the sea gains depth in a very few meters from the beach, makes the perfect environment for mating and also makes them feel safe from any attack. Further north, the road leads to 'Península Valdés'. It looks almost like an island united to the continent only by a narrow strip of land called Carlos Ameghino Isthmus,which separates the San José and the Nuevo gulfs. The entrance gate to the Provincial Natural Reserve of Península Valdés is located shortly after the isthmus. Thereby the Lookout of the Birds Island Natural Reserve allows to spot, with binoculars, this small key located within the San Jose Gulf, which is nowadays an intangible reserve. It was one of the first fauna reserves in South America, created in 1967 due to the need to protect its particularly fragile ecosystem: a widely diverse colony of sea birds. The Interpretative Center of the Reserve of Península Valdés is also located in the isthmus. One of the highlights of the peninsula is 'Puerto Pirámide', situated 108 km (68 miles) away from Puerto Madryn. Its beach, with calm transparent water, is ideal for the practice of aquatic and sub-aquatic sports. Its name refers to the steep pyramid-like cliff that forms its coastal line. However, its top attraction is being the departure point of the boats that offer, daily, the whale-watching excursions. In order to avoid alterations during the breeding and mating seasons, the navigation is only allowed in the Golfo Nuevo. The whales appear on the coasts of Puerto Madryn, and in both gulfs, in May each year, and remain in the area till early December. These are the Southern Right Whales (Eubalaena Australis), belonging to the suborder of cetaceans called Mysticetus. They differentiate from sperm whales, killing whales and other cetaceans because they have not teeth but baleens, INCENTIVE TRIPS Puerto Madryn offers facilities adequate for small groups and incentive trips. Its assorted wildlife and fascinating landscape grant an unforgettable experience. The excellent local cuisine, specially the lamb and seafood and the delicious Welsh pastries will make all meals an which are rigid keratin plates (similar to our fingernails). These baleens allow them to filter sea water in it is also worth, attraction by itself. But order to obtain their main food: a tiny shrimp-like considering the crustacean called krill. It is possible to identify them experience and thanks to the callosities that appear on their superior hospitality of local side. This birth signals are similar to human fingerprints since they are different in each specimen. The cared services. The area suppliers who offer well- unchecked hunting performed by whaler boats led deserves a 2 or 3 day these cetaceans close to extinction. Thanks to international agreements that protect them and to the bill eventually be organized visit, but it can approved in 1984 which declared them a Natural a 1-day round trip Monument within Argentine waters, a slow recovering charter flight to visit has been watched in the last few years. The average Península Valdés, having population in the world is 7,000 specimens at present. lunch there and The right whales come to Península Valdés to mate, returning to Buenos give birth and breed their calves in the protected and Aires by night. calm waters of the gulfs. However, it has never been possible to see a birth. The maximum concentration takes place between October and November, period in which there are up 600 specimens comprising both gulfs. Births take place between August and October, giving birth to only one whale calf every three to five years. The females with reproduction capacity return to the Península Valdés area every three-year intervals in search of security and calm. The adult males, instead, return to the peninsula every year. The adults reach a weight of 30 to 40 tons, eating one ton and a half of krill and plankton every day. In December they leave the area for their A. Verde Embalse F. Ameghino Río Negro Chubut Puerto Madryn Trelew Dolavon Gaiman Rawson 1 B. Janssen Punta Colorada Puerto Lobos Puerto Pirámide Playa Unión Punta Tombo Golfo Nuevo Golfo San José Lobería 2 3 Península Valdés Morro Nuevo Punta Ninfas Punta Norte Atlantic Ocean Scale in km Enlarged Area Caleta Valdés Punta Delgada N Central Patagonia 121

122 Central Patagonia feeding grounds, though very little is known about SPECIAL their habits during that period or about where they go. INTEREST TRIPS 5 km (3 miles) from Puerto Pirámide there is a fauna Central Patagonia has a reserve of one-haired sea lions called 'Punta lot to offer for those that Pirámide'. They gather there during summer for are interested not only in reproduction. Most births take place in January and wildlife and ecology, but the emigration from March to April. The colony is also in visiting observed from a natural lookout located on a cliff that paleontological, protects the beaches. The same road, further to the anthropological and east, leads to 'Punta Delgada', where a lonely lighthouse stands in the middle of the barren land. The geological sites. Experienced guides and premises of the Punta Delgada Lighthouse complex experts in the different date back to the beginning of the XX century. It is a disciplines will turn any series of buildings which, after a long abandonment, trip really educative, have been refurbished some time ago and works now providing a great deal of as restaurant and hotel, offering also an interesting set details and information of activities in the surroundings, such as: guided horseback rides, visits to various marine fauna rookeries as specialized as your group may require. We accompanied by experienced local guides. It is the only can arrange all kind of place in the peninsula where it is permitted to see the tailor-made itineraries to sea elephants going down to the beach. Very near, there meet exactly your group is another colony which gathers in a lonely beach requirements. We count on relevant natural called El Arenal. Northbound, the Reserve of Punta resources and on the Cantor, in 'Caleta Valdés' gathers also an important expertise of our staff to colony of sea elephants (or elephant seals). Unlike the grant a great experience. rookery in Punta Delgada, this colony stays here all year round. Sea elephants belong to the same family than seals. Like them, they creep on the beaches using only their anterior limbs. Sea lions use all their four fins as legs, on instead. They are called elephants due to the characteristic trunk of the males and to their huge massive body. Adult males reach a length of 6 meters and a weight of up to 2,500 kilos (5.500 pounds), while females are five times smaller. They birth during springtime (September thru October), but it is possible to see them in different spots along the coasts all year round. Apart from sea elephants, Caleta Valdés has a very attractive morphological structure. It is a long and narrow inlet that stretches from north to south, parallel to the coast, making a kind of littoral lagoon. During summer, interesting colonies of sea birds inhabit the area. In the northern tip of the peninsula, there is another sea lion and sea elephant reserve called 'Punta Norte', and those that are lucky enough might even see some killer whale,when they reach the area during the reproduction season of the right whales, trying to catch some calves. The access to 'Estancia San Lorenzo' is situated nearby. In this place, used to operate a sea lion processing plant and some ruins of the premises and cauldrons can still be seen thereby. But its most important attraction is a Magellan Penguin rookery which is the largest in the peninsula. During the reproductive season up to 350,000 penguins can be seen on its beaches. Unlike other rookeries, San Lorenzo has the additional charm of being off-the-beaten-track. 170 km (106 miles) southward from Puerto Madryn, the Punta Tombo Penguin Rookery nestles on the beach at the feet of the coastal cliff, where the organized life of the Magellan Penguins will provide a wondrous show. Not many places around the world offer the chance to visit a colony by walking within it, along clearly limited paths. This penguin is a swimming migratory bird that lives in the southern hemisphere. Its typical features are two stripes of black feathers around the neck and on the chest. This species lives mainly on the sea coast of Chubut province, forming colonies that settle in San Lorenzo, Punta Tombo, Bahía Camarones and Cabo Dos Bahías. Punta Tombo is the most important among them. More than 700,000 penguins arrive in September to nest and stay here until April. Males arrive first to settle the nests. Later on, females reach the colony, around the beginning of October, to lay two eggs that will hatch after around 40 days of incubation. Chicks will be cared and fed by both parents. They spend most of their time in the water and even sleep there. They can keep up a swimming speed of 8 km (5 miles) per hour, reaching their highest speed in short periods when they jump out of the water like dolphins. The adults normally weigh about 5 kilos (11 pounds) and reach an approximate length of 40 cm (1.30 ft.). The males are slightly bigger and have a longer and thicker beak than the females. Penguins stay on land during the reproduction and molting season and they use the large Punta Tombo beaches for this. In the early morning and at sunset, the beach is full of penguins bathing and fixing their plumage. Penguins that are not in their reproductive age spend most of their time swimming, sleeping, sunbathing or resting under the shade of the bushes. Going back to Trelew and southward along Route 3, and after a 70 km (44 miles) detour to the east, it is possible to visit the small fishing village of Camarones, situated 220 Km (137 miles) away from Trelew. The tiny township, settled on the homonymous bay is not attractive by itself but because of the unbelievable beauty of the Cabo dos Bahías Reserve, also know as Camarones Penguin Rookery. The reserve houses, not only marine species such as Magellan penguins and two-haired sea lions, but also some other typical Patagonian species such as guanacos, ñandúes (rheas) and maras (Patagonian hares). The reserve boasts also an exceptionally beautiful landscape, where the deep blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean contrast with the reddish stone formations of the cliffs. Continuing southbound, back along the main road, you reach Comodoro Rivadavia, located 220 km (137 miles) further south. 122

123 CENTRAL PATAGONIA Comodoro Rivadavia In the southern extreme of the Province of Chubut, over the San Jorge Gulf, the Italian Francisco Pietrobelli founded the city of Comodoro Rivadavia that is nowadays the Capital of Petroleum in Argentina, at the foothill of Cerro Chenque. From 1901 to 1905, after the Anglo-Boer War, the first South African colonists arrived. They immediately started to dig in search of fresh water, which, just by chance, led to the discovery of oil in These immigrants specialized in ovine cattle raising, achieving, shortly after, a great development of the activity by introducing improvements in the breeds. Their descendants are nowadays owners of some of the most important local estancias. The South African community keeps its old language (the Afrikaans) and its traditions; each February they celebrate the Sports, a festival with traditional games and activities directly related to their origins and religion. The finding of petroleum made this arid and lonely place become one of the most important cities in southern Argentina. It is interesting to visit the National Oil Museum, as well as the Museum of the old Astra Campsite. It is also remarkable the Cañadón Blanco ( White Canyon ) and the Geologic Interpretative Center within the Paleontological Museum, attractive to visitors because of its impressive assets, which reflect the historic relevance of the region. Comodoro Rivadavia is the starting point for different excursions. Several industrial firms, oil pumps, the aeolian park, and various archaeological, geologic and paleontological sites can be visited; it is also possible to enjoy some lake or sea game fishing, as well as diving, fauna spotting and game hunting. The city is also gateway to different circuits to travel this area of Patagonia, which hides beauties of immeasurable scenic, historic and scientific value. Westward, the Bi-Oceanic Corridor, which leads, in a few driving hours, to the Pacific Ocean, across the lower section of the Andean Cordillera, so as to visit on the Chilean side: Coihaique, Aisen, and the San Rafael Lagoon Glacier. Also westbound, but some kilometers before reaching the Andes Range and the frontier passes, the mythical National Route 40 runs parallel to the mountains, permitting access to most assorted attractions. Southwards from Comodoro Rivadavia, along National Route 3, it is also possible to visit places that are immensely rich in native wild life, over the ocean coastal area, as well as some other attractions nearby. National Route 3 ADVENTURE TOURISM The region offers several alternatives for Adventure Tourism. The Andean Cordillera is the perfect setting for bold trekking and climbing expeditions in search of those most outstanding natural treasures that this inhabited land keeps jealously, maybe in an attempt of preserving it for the future. Precious views that will remain indelibly recorded in your mind for ever. The coast has also its attractions to offer to those that like to get closely in touch with the environment, such as diving, horse-back riding at some of the typical ranches or joining some 4WD rides into the wilderness. All in all, a place to be patiently discovered, little by little, as you travel the huge Patagonian distances from one place to the other. 16 km (10 miles) south from Comodoro Rivadavia the small city of Rada Tilly, stands by the ocean and has an extensive beach. The 'Punta del Marqués Lookout' offers a panoramic view of the village and is habitat of a one-haired sea lion colony. Its warm and quiet waters are apt for nautical sports, game fishing and sub-aquatic activities. Going on south, the route travels beautiful sceneries in which the Patagonian coastal cliffs artistically coalesce with the deep blue infinity of the ocean. Once in the Province of Santa Cruz, the route passes by the city of Caleta Olivia, in the southern extreme of the San Jorge Gulf. 300 Km (188 miles) from Comodoro Rivadavia, the route finally reaches Puerto Deseado. PUERTO DESEADO The city developed around the port, most important for the economic life of Patagonia. It lies at the mouth of the Deseado River, on the shore of the profound estuary known as 'Ría Deseado' (Puerto Deseado Inlet) which is one of the world s most Central Patagonia 123

124 Central Patagonia WILDLIFE From its harsh interior to its strikingly beautiful coast, Patagonia is tailor-made for wildlife watching. It s common to see different wildlife species: gray foxes, ñandúes (species of rheas), maras (Patagonian hares), 'pumas' (cougars). However, for most visitors, the major attraction is its marine wildlife: whales, penguins, sea elephants and sea lions, Commerson s dolphins, cormorants and some other sea birds. important marine reserves because of its great biodiversity. It is inhabited by assorted species of marine birds, abundant fishes and huge marine mammals. Massive reddish stonewalls skirt the inlet, whose waters change from deep blue to emerald green. These rocky slopes are inhabited by more than 60 species of marine birds that settle their nests thereby. Among them, cormorants (the inlet is only place on earth where five species coexist, among them the 'King Cormorant'), penguins, seagulls, skuas and oystercatchers stand out, which can be spotted along the Cormorants Cliff as well as sailing along the estuary. During summer, the Reserva de Cabo Blanco ('White Cape Reserve') houses one-haired and twohaired sea lions. Another interesting attraction is, undoubtedly, the beautiful black and white Commerson s dolphin that mates in the bay. From October to April the Magellan penguin arrives here to feed and mate. 11 nautical miles from Puerto Deseado, the Reserva Provincial Isla Pingüino ('Penguin Island Provincial Reserve') arises at the mouth of the inlet. It was created in 1992 and was so-called because its population is mainly composed of yellow-crested penguins, and also a few Magellan penguins. It is a rocky irregularly-shaped key where it is hard to reach because of the strong surrounding marine streams. The Monumento Nacional Bosques Petrificados ('Petrified Forest National Monument') also know as Jaramillo Petrified Forest, located 150 km (94 miles) west from Puerto Deseado and with a surface of 10,000 hectares, is one of the largest existing petrified forest. It was created in 1954 with the objective of protecting the largest petrified araucaria forests in the world. It contains fossilized trunks of araucarias and even some palmtrees that reach a length of 30 meters (100 feet) and a diameter of almost 3 meters (10 feet). The area, which some 130 million years ago was covered by a lush jungle, is nowadays a barren land where only xerophile vegetation can survive. PUERTO SAN JULIAN Some 250 km (156 miles) further south, along Route 3, the small but nice city of Puerto San Julián, is located on a land tip that pierces into the bay limited by 'Cabo Curioso' ('Curious Cape') and 'Punta Desengaño' ('Deception Point'). Wherefrom, some interesting visits can be arranged such as a boat drive to the island called Banco Cormorán, habitat to an assorted colony of Magellan penguins, cormorants, seagulls, Antarctic seals, swallows and oystercatchers, among others. Another small island is Banco Justicia, or Bird Island, where cormorants and many other birds nestle. Estancia La María, situated 150 km (94 miles) away from Puerto San Julián, is well-known because of its rupestrian paintings, that can be admired in its numerous caves, 25 out of which exhibit an important variety of paintings that date back to some 2,000 to 10,000 years ago and that belonged to a local aborigine culture called Casapedrense. It might be also interesting to visit, 10 km (6.25 miles) away from San Julián, the ruins of Nueva Colonia de Floridablanca, a small settlement founded centuries ago and so-called to honor the Count of Floridablanca, who were Minister of King Charles III of Spain during the times of the Viceroyalty. Atlantic/Pacific Bi-oceanic Corridor A 156 km (100 mile) westbound drive from Comodoro Rivadavia leads to Colonia Sarmiento,a small township located in the mid of the fertile valley that stretches between lakes Musters and Colhue Huapi. This is one of the oldest Patagonian cities founded by Welsh and South African settlers. It is possible to visit the Anthropological and Indian Culture Museum, known as the Museum of the Dinosaurs, where fossilized remains of these extinct animals can be appreciated as well as an exhibition of objects that reflect the Patagonian aborigine culture development (paintings, woven clothes, pottery). The José Ormachea Petrified Wood is located 30 km (19 miles) from Sarmiento. The fossils of ancient petrified 65-million years old araucarias lie surrounded by multicolored hills with shades of green, red, yellow, ochre and gray, produced by the action of volcanic ashes deposited in the area for millennia. A few kilometers to the east is the Szlapeliz Petrified Wood,whose hard access has made possible a remarkable conservation of the resource. Successive geologic folds and volcanic eruptions led the lush tropical forest that covered the area to extinction, and the ashes caused the fossilization of the trees that over the years turned into pure rock. Many of the trunks found were still standing on their roots, profoundly fixed in the ground. The ashes that covered them for centuries also contributed to protect these huge stone monuments from the erosion of the strong Patagonian winds. Further to the west, 230 km (144 miles) from Colonia Sarmiento the road leads to Huemules Pass, entrance gate to Chile and its Puerto Aisen National Park, featured by a most particular vegetation weird for this lat- Enlarged Area Scale in km N Pt. Aisén Coihaique CHILE Paso Coihaique Paso Huemules Balmaceda Co. Ap. Iwan 1784 Co. Cabeza Blanca 1007 Co. Teta 1784 Lago Blanco Los Antiguos Meseta del Lago Río Mayo Cordón el Pluma Pampa del Setenta 40 Perito Moreno Co. El Volcán 666 Meseta Gambarana Loma del Faquicó Pampa Verdúm 43 Rio Deseado Río Senguer Co. del Portugués 696 Gran Bajo El Salitral Sierra de San Bernardo 18 Lago Musters Pampa María Santísima Lago Colhué Huapi Las Heras 43 Santa Cruz Chubut 24 Co. Pico Neto 22 Co. Reculado Río Mayo Sarmiento 7 Co. Cónico Co. El Mirador Co. Mayo Co. Gaucho 841 Co. Rojo 1705 Lago Buenos Aires Chile Chico Co. León 656 Pampa del Castillo Co. Teta 650 Co. Tres Picos 741 Co. Doce Grande 807 Co.Tortugo Gran Bajo Central Rada Tilly Co. Iglesias 598 Lago Gran Bajo Oriental 12 Pico Truncado Caleta Córdoba Comodoro Rivadavia Atlantic Ocean Caleta Oliva 3 124

125 itude: the 'Valdivian Forest', with its vines, huge ferns, cascades and rivers. And from there you can directly arrive at Puerto Chacabuco, on the Pacific Ocean. NATIONAL ROUTE 40 On the southeastern cost of Lake Buenos Aires, very near the Andean Range, the tiny town of Perito Moreno is located in the northern extreme of the Province of Santa Cruz, near Deseado River source. It is surrounded by cattle ranches and farms that produce fine fruits (strawberries, raspberries and cherries) and vegetables. It is quite an attractive spot for tourism because of the natural beauties featured by the Patagonian landscape. The city was founded in 1927 by Francisco P. Moreno, and was named after him. He was an important patriot who contributed to strengthen Argentine sovereignty in these far away lands. 57 km (91 miles) west from Perito Moreno, the small village of Los Antiguos, nests at the foothill of the protective Andean walls. It is also situated on the southern margin of Lake Buenos Aires and by the river of the same name. The town name, Antiguos stands for old or ancient, and the town was named like that precisely because it was the place that local aborigines would choose to spend their last days before death. It is surrounded by the attractive landscape that the lake and the snowed Andean peaks provide. Its excellent climate and its abundant vegetation are the perfect frame to the village, creating a microclimate which renders the area ideal for growing cherries, strawberries and raspberries, as well as apples, walnuts and honey, out of which jams, marmalades and other specialties are locally produced. The village has also numerous small factories devoted to the industrialization of trout and salmon that are obtained from the lake. On the lake shore there are several good options for accommodation. This charming village is located just by the Chilean border and has a frontier pass known as Los Antiguos-Chile Chico. The latter being the name of the small Chilean town cradled on the banks of the huge lake that spreads from Argentina into Chile, where its name is changed to Lake General Carreras. There are several lookouts that make it possible to observe the Chilean side of the border from Los Antiguos. It is also interesting to visit Mount Cevallos, situated nearby, whose extended slopes are the perfect place to enjoy some easy hiking expeditions across the Patagonia forests. Perito Moreno is the gateway to the National Route 40, down into the Province of Santa Cruz, along which it is possible to stay at various Patagonian estancias, that have lately started to offer plain but comfortable accommodation to tourists, as well as excellent homemade typical food. Though the best thing they offer is the chance to get in touch with outstanding natural beauties otherwise almost inaccessible. Once on Route 40, 26 km (16 miles) to the south of Perito Moreno, the road crosses the Page and Telken Creeks, leaving beyond the entrance to Estancia Telken, and goes lonely on for 120 km (75 miles) more up to the tortuous detour to the Cave of the Painted Hands on the Pinturas River Gully. The caves and eaves hidden on the reddish stonewalls of the 170-meter (565-feet) deep gully, are one of the most important expressions of the American rupestrian art, found by a Salesian priest, Father D Agostini in These paintings offer a unique testimony of the habits and beliefs of the ethnic groups that used to live here in ancient times. These 3,000 to 9,000 year old works were designed in assorted colors: black, ochre, different shades of yellow, red and violet. The pictures consist of hands painted in negative, anthropomorphic figures and 'guanacos' that perform hunting scenes. The human body is normally featured with a lateral view of the legs, a front view of the trunk and unrecognizable-shaped heads. Continuing southbound along Route 40, it is possible to observe on the west side of the route, the imposing massif of Mount San Lorenzo (3,706 m./12,340 ft.), with peaks that reach average heights of 3,500 meters (11,655 ft.). It is the highest peak of the Southern Andes, a dominating Himalayan-like image on the surrounding landscape. To approach its basis, it is necessary to detour west at the hamlet called Bajo Caracoles, towards the tiny village of Hipólito Yrigoyen, also known as Lake Posadas Village. This is the gateway to Hostería Lagos del Furioso, settled between the pebble stone moraine left by the latest advance of the glaciers, which separates the waters of Lake Posadas and Lake Pueyrredón. Nearby, the Oro River Valley is reached through a secondary dirt road that ends at Estancia Los Ñires. Walking on some 15 km (9 miles) Mount San Lorenzo foothill is reached. A scenery composed of high peaks, glaciers, lakes and woods, ideal setting for adventure expeditions, such as trekking, climbing and horse-back riding, as well as 2 to 7- day long expeditions involving the conquest of Mount San Lorenzo summit. An excellent choice for trekkers is to unite the region with the Parque Nacional Perito Moreno ( Perito Moreno National Park ) along an almost unexplored and surprisingly attractive path. The way from Mount San Lorenzo up to the park Visitors Center is about 30 km (48 miles) long. Though, going from one place to the other by car, makes the way 300 Km (480 miles) long, which is nevertheless an excellent choice for those who are not willing to face such a demanding expedition on foot. The natural beauties of the park will overpay the effort. The national park was created in 1937 with the aim of protecting a singular flora, fauna and lake ecosystem, so far untouched because of its difficult access. Within the park, Estancia La Oriental, a typical Patagonian ranch, offers accommodation; and there are also several campsites. There are different interesting sites within the park, such as: Mount León, Lake Burmeister, and many other places of unbelievable scenic beauty, continuously accompanied by numerous herds of 'guanacos', which reproduce healthily within this protected environment. Central Patagonia 125

126 CENTRAL PATAGONIA Puerto Madryn CITY TOUR AND PUNTA LOMA RESERVE HALF DAY TOUR (3 hours). Total distance traveled: 25 km (16 miles). Itinerary: Departure from hotel City tour Coastal Boulevard Tehuelche Aborigine Monument Punta Loma Reserve (Interpretative native flora path and sea lion colony) Return to hotel. DORADILLO BEACH HALF DAY TOUR (2 _ hours). Total distance traveled: 24 km (15 miles). Itinerary: Departure from hotel El Doradillo beach (Southern Right Whale watching from the shore) Return to hotel. Central Patagonia PENINSULA VALDES FULL DAY TOUR (8 hours). Total distance traveled: 480 km (300 miles). Itinerary: Departure from hotel - Ameghino Isthmus Birds Island lookout Interpretative Center Puerto Pirámides - Caleta Valdés Punta Delgada Return to hotel. Optional: Whale watching, June thru December. Visit to San Lorenzo Penguin Rookery, October thru March (only in private tours). PUNTA TOMBO PENGUIN ROOKERY FULL DAY TOUR (8 hours). Total distance traveled: 340 km (212 miles). Itinerary: Departure from hotel - Punta Tombo Penguin Rookery - Unión Beach (Rawson) Trelew Gaiman Return to hotel. Note: Operates October thru March. Optional: Welsh Tea in Gaiman. Visit to the Paleontological Museum in Trelew. Commerson s dolphin watching in Rawson. CERRO AVANZADO HALF DAY TOU (3 hours). Total distance traveled: 30 km (19 miles). Itinerary: Departure from hotel by 4WD vehicles Cross Country drive off the city across the Patagonian steppe Cerro Avanzado Flora, fauna and fossil interpretative ride in the beach Return to hotel. 126

127 AMEGHINO DAM FULL DAY TOUR (8 hours). Total distance traveled: 400 km (250 miles). Itinerary: Departure from hotel - Ameghino Dam Gaiman Dolavon Trelew Return to hotel. Optional: Welsh Tea in Gaiman. Visit to the Paleontological Museum in Trelew. ESTANCIA SAN GUILLERMO FULL DAY TOUR (8 hours). Itinerary: Departure from hotel Estancia San Guillermo: Patagonian lamb barbecue, country day, mate with tortas fritas (fried pastries) Native fauna spotting Return to hotel. SUBMARINE BAPTISM DIVING IN PENÍNSULA VALDÉS (PUERTO PIRÁMIDES) OR PUERTO MADRYN. Itinerary: Departure from hotel embarkation on board diving lessons on board training professionally assisted diving Return to hotel. Note: Operates September thru July. CHUBUT RIVER VALLEY & GAIMAN. HALF DAY TOUR (5 HOURS). Total distance traveled: 180 km. Itinerary: Departure from hotel sail setting guaranteed fishing Return to hotel. Optional: Welsh Tea in Gaiman. Visit to Paleontological Museum in Trelew. Commerson's dolphin watching in Rawson. Central Patagonia CENTRAL PATAGONIA Comodoro Rivadavia CITY TOUR WITH RADA TILLY AND PETROLEUM MUSEUM HALF DAY TOUR (3 _ hours). Total distance traveled: 80 km (50 miles). Itinerary: Departure from hotel City tour Panoramic lookout at Cerro Chenque Petroleum Museum Aeolian Park - Rada Tilly - Punta del Marqués sea lion reserve Return to hotel. 127

128 CAMARONES Y BAHIA BUSTAMANTE FULL DAY TOUR (8 hours). Total distance traveled: 600 km (375 miles). Itinerary: Departure from hotel - Cabo Dos Bahías Reserve - Bahía Camarones Penguin Rookery Sea lion colony Marine algae processing plant Return to hotel. CERROS COLORADOS HALF DAY TOUR (3 hours). Total distance traveled: 60 km (37 miles). Itinerary: Departure from hotel - Caleta Córdoba Cerros Colorados (Red Hills) Return to hotel. Optional: Trekking at Cerro Pico Salamanca. ORMACHEA PETRIFIED WOODS FULL DAY TOUR (8 hours). Total distance traveled: 376 km (235 miles). Itinerary: Departure from hotel Lakes Colhue Huapi and Musters Colonia Sarmiento Dinosaurs Museum - Ormachea Petrified Wood Return to hotel. Central Patagonia Table of animal concentration of the main migratory species in Península Valdés and Pingüinera Punta Tombo JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC JAN FEB MAR APR MAY General fauna Whales and dolphins Wolves and elephants Penguins Hunting Rabbits and hares Hunting Copetona (or crested tinamou) Game fishing Submarine Scuba diving Average temperature (in Centigrades) Sea temperature (in Centigrades)

129 CENTRAL PATAGONIA Trelew Rayentray **** Address: San Martín y Belgrano (9600) Trelew. Telephone: (02965) Fax: Hotels Libertador **** Address: Rivadavia 31 (U9100HIA) Trelew Telephone / fax: (02965) /5013/6026 Internet Page: Location: in the centric area of Trelew city. Accommodation: 110 rooms. All rooms are supplied with: telephone with DDN/DDI, heating, colour cable TV with remote control, minibar. Facilities and services: 24 hours room service, laundry service, drugstore, heated swimming pool, sauna, tanning bed, hydromassage, gym, massages, safe box, national and international telefax. Restaurant: 1 coffe shop. Capacity: 40 people. 1 restaurante. Offers international meals and breakfast. Capacity: 180 people. Meeting facilities: White room: room for meetings. Capacity: 30 people. Red room: room for conventions, congresses and events. Capacity: 220 people. Presidential suite: room for meetings with 2 offices, kitchenette and 2 bathrooms. Capacity: 50 people. CENTRAL PATAGONIA Web site: Built in: Remodelled various times. Location: 300 meters from Trelew's main square, strategically located city in reference to the natural beauties of Península Valdés and Punta Tombo. Accommodation: 90 rooms: 78 standard and 12 superior. All rooms are supplied with: carpeting, private bathroom, telephone with DDI/DDN, central heating, cable TV and programmed music system. The superior rooms also include hair dryer, jacuzzi, individual air conditioning and heating and internet connection. Facilties and services: offices with internet, indoor garage with 24 hs TV controlled close circuit, medical emergency services, laundry and dry cleaning service. Restaurant: 1 restaurant and 1 cafeteria. Capacity: 150 people. Meeting facilities: Convention room, capacity: 70 people. Business room, capacity: 14 people. Central Patagonia Puerto Madryn Península Valdés **** Address: Av. Julio A. Roca 155 (U9120AIB) Puerto Madryn Telephone: (02965) Fax: Hotels Tolosa *** Address: Roque Saenz Peña 253/263 (U9120AIB) Puerto Madryn Telephone: (02965) Fax: Web site: Location: in the center of Puerto Madryn, a few kilometers from the area's natural reserves. Accommodation: 70 rooms: doubles, triples and quadruples. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom, telephone with DDI/DDN, air conditioning, heating, colour cable TV, radio, programmed music system and PC connection. Facilities and services: spa, indoor garage, safe box, laundry service, 24 hs room service, internet access. Restaurant: not available. Meeting facilities: Patagonia room: offers an area for congresses, meetings and conferences, capacity: 60 people. Executive room, capacity: 8 people.v Internet page: Built in: Remodelled constantly and enlarged various times, the last being in Location: in Puerto Madryn's commercial area, 200 meters from the city center and the beach. Accommodation: 85 rooms: 60 standard and 25 superior. All rooms are supplied with: telephone, central heating, cable TV, hair dryer and sommier. Some superior rooms also include safe box, frigobar and modem connection; 5 of these have jacuzzi and air conditioning. Facilities and services: indoor parking lot, medical assistance, laundry and dry cleaning service, 24 hs room service, safe box, internet access. Restaurant: 1 cafeteria: offers fast food. 129

130 Playa Hotel *** Address: Av.J.A.Roca 187 (U9120AIB) Puerto Madryn Telephone / fax: (02965) Los Tulipanes *** Apart Hotel Address: Lewis Jones 150 (U9120LBD) Puerto Madryn Web site: Built in: Remodelled various times, last modification in Location: in the city center, opposite the beach. Accommodation: 54 rooms and suites. All rooms are supplied with: carpeting, private bathroom, telephone with DDI/DDN, air conditioning, heating, cable TV and safe box. Facilities and services: living-room, playroom, safe box, medical service, internet access, fax, commercial gallery, parking lot. Restaurant: 1 bar-cafeteria. Meeting facilities: meeting and conference room. Telephone: (02965) /0 Web site: Accommodation: 1 and 2 room apartments for 2, 3 and 4 people. All apartments are supplied with: telephone with DDI/DDN, cable TV, safe box, frigobar, kitchenette, fridge, microwave oven and sommier. Facilities and services: 24 hs room service, laundry, babysitter, internet, outdoor swimming pool, playroom, relax room, piano room, bilingual personnel, parking lot, medical assistance, excusrion reservations, transfers in/out from the airport. Restaurant: 1 restaurant and 1 quincho. Bahía Nueva *** Address: Av. Roca 67 (U9120AIA) Puerto Madryn Telephone / fax: (02965) / Villa Pirén *** Apart Hotel Address: Av. J. A. Roca 439 (U9120AIE) Puerto Madryn Central Patagonia Web site: Built in: 1995 Location: opposite the sea, a few meters from the city center. Accommodation: 40 rooms: 32 doubles and 8 triples. All rooms are supplied with: carpeting, telephone with DDI/DDN, heating and colour cable TV. Facilities and services: parking lot, elevators, safe box, medical assistance, emergency exits, fax, library. Restaurant: lobby bar. La Posada ** de Madryn Address: Abraham Mathews 2951 (9120) Puerto Madryn Telephone / fax: (02965) / Web site: Location: 500 meters from the sea, in Puerto Madryn's best residential area. Accommodation: 24 rooms. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom, telephone with DDI/DDN and fax. Restaurant: 1 breakfast room and 1 dining room overlooking the park. Telephone / fax: (02965) /276 Web site: Location: opposite the sea, a few minutes from Valdés Peninsula. Accommodation: standard rooms, junior suites, executive suites overlooking the sea and the city and inperial suite. All rooms are supplied with: telephone with DDI/DDN, individual heating, cable TV, safe box, PC and modem connection, arts and crafts furniture in iron framework. The junior suites also include sommiers. The executive suites are apartments supplied with bathroom, dining-room, fridge with freezer, kitchen equipped with dishes and microwave oven for 5 people. The imperial suite is a duplex apartment supplied with bathroom, kitchen, dining-room and balcony for 7 people. Facilities and services: 24 hs room service, medical assistance, garage, laundry service, recreational services, educational walks, beach services. Restaurant: 1 room with barbecue and grill and 1 cafeteria. Meeting facilities: 1 conference room. Hotel de Campo *** Faro Punta Delgada Address: Punta Delgada, Península de Valdés Telephone: (02965) Fax: Internet Page: Built in: 1989 Location: on the Atlantic coast, in the south east of Valdes peninsula, 165 km away from Pto. Madryn city. Accommodation: 27 rooms: 25 doubles, 1 single and 1 triple. All rooms are supplied with: carpeting, private bathroom and heating. Facilities and services: safebox, radio communication, horses. Restaurant: 1 restaurant. Capacity: 70 people. 130

131 Las Bardas Apart Hotel Address: Morgan 1751 (9120) Puerto Madryn Telephone: (02965) Fax: Web site: Location: 200 meters from Brown Boulevard. Accommodation: 8 apartments. All apartments are supplied with: private bathroom, telephone, cable TV, safe box, frigobar, kitchenette with dishes, white clothes and sheets. Facilities and services: garage, park with grill and tables. Restaurant: 1 cafeteria. The Paradise Hostería Address: 2 bajada al mar, Puerto Pirámides Telephone / fax: (02865) /030/075 Web site: Location: in Puerto Pirámides' ecotouristic villa, inside the Península Valdés Natural Reserve. Accommodation: 12 rooms: 10 standard and 2 suites and 1 cottage for 5 people. All rooms and the cottage are supplied with: private bathroom, telephone with DDI/DDN, air conditioning, heating, colour TV, safe box, fax, and 24 hs hot water. The suites aldso include hydromassage. Facilities and services: room service, fax, internet access, optional laundry service, playroom, reading areas, recreational services: bicycle, diving, horseback rides, sandboard, fauna watching. Restaurant: 1 restaurant: offers exquisite and varied dishes based on regional products. CENTRAL PATAGONIA Comodoro Rivadavia Hotels Austral Plaza **** Austral Express *** Address: Moreno 725 (U9000DAE) Comodoro Rivadavia Telephone/Fax: (0297) Web site: Built in: 1998 the Austral Plaza Hotel and in the Austral Express. Location: in the center of the city and a few metres away from the sea. Accommodation: 42 rooms: 33 doubles, 3 twins, 2 junior suites, 3 suites and 1 room for handicapped people. All rooms are supplied with: bathroom with telephone, hair dryer, enlarge mirror, 220/110 volts, 2 telephones with DDI/DDN, heating, cable TV, safe box with magnetic card, wake up radio-alarm clock, internet connection, electronic lock, queen size beds and sommiers, desk, acoustic isolation. The junior suites are supplied with living-room with TV, table, chairs and 2 armchairs. The suites are also supplied with bathroom with hydromassage, shower cabin, individual air conditioning, TV 29, armchairs, chairs, king size bed and dressing room. Restaurant: Tunet Restaurante: offers different sea food, meat and other regional products. Capacity: people. Austral Bar & Lung. Capacity: 120 people. Meeting facilities: Punta Borja room: with access to the foyer next to the Lobby Patagonia room: formed by Patagonia Sur room and Patagonia Norte room. Rada Tilli room: next to the business center. Lago Musters room: next to the business center which can be adjoined with Rada Tilly room. All rooms offer a capacity of people. Business Center: formed by a secretarial-reception area, 2 offices and 1 boardroom Address: Moreno 725 (U9000DAE) Comodoro Rivadavia Telephone/Fax: (0297) \ Web site: Built in: 1998 the Austral Plaza Hotel and in the Austral Express. Location: in the center of the city and a few metres away from the sea. Accommodation: 108 rooms: 25 singles, 30 doubles, 41 twins, 5 triples, 6 apartments and 1 suite. All rooms are supplied with: carpeting, bathroom with hair dryer, heating, TV with CATV, internet connection, chair and desk. Facilities and services: parking, safe box, laundry service, shops, swimming pool, gym, sauna, solarium, dressing-rooms, toilettes, elevators, sprinklers. Restaurant: 1 bar and 1 dining-room with grill. Comodoro *** Address: 9 de Julio 770 (U9000CZF) Comodoro Rivadavia Telephone: (0297) Fax: Web site: Location: in Comodoro Rivadavia's city center. Accommodation: 104 extra, superior and standard rooms with sea view. All rooms are supplied with: bathroom with shower, telephone with DDI/DDN, central heating, colour cable TV. Facilities and services: laundry and dry cleaning service, fax service, medical emergency service, 24 hs room service, safe box, desk with telephone connection for the PC. Restaurant: 1 lobby bar and 1 breakfast room. Meeting facilities: Panoramic room for events, conventions and banquets. Capacity: 15 to 200 people. Central Patagonia 131

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133 Southern Patagonia The southern extreme of Patagonia offers tourist resources unique in the world. A thousand emotions invade the spirit when discovering the region situated just at the end of the world. A land of legends that many audacious spirits in the world have dreamt to travel. A land rather bleak, barren, inhabited only by those who have accepted to challenge of loneliness and the only company of nature at its best. A land where the visitor will be enraptured by such beauty. Due to its geographical position, it is exposed to strong winds, which is proven by its low constructions and the lack of vegetation in the cities, whose only trees grow bent following the wind direction and are thus called flag-trees for the shape they adopt. Los Glaciares National Park heads the long list of sites that, passing by the mythical Tierra del Fuego and the Islands of the Southern Atlantic Ocean, ends in the captivating white continent : Antarctica. A visit along these vast lands will make it possible to get in touch with some of the wonders of nature in constant creation. But once one has been there, it is impossible not to be prompted to return again and again. Enlarged Area CHILE El Chaltén Mte. Fitz Roy m Mte. Stokes mtorres del Paine El Turbio Bajo Caracoles 288 Cdte. Luis Piedra Buena Esperanza Paso Cancha de Carreras Santa Cruz La Horqueta Lago San Martín 25 Monte Aymond Estrecho de Magallanes Puerto San Julián 281 Bahía grande San Sebastián T ierra del Fuego Lago Fagnano Pto. Williams Isla de Los Estados Estrecho de Le Maire Southern Patagonia 1 Cabo de Hornos Scale in km N The main cities of this region are: Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world and El Calafate, the gateway to an impressive land of glaciers 133

134 SOUTHERN PATAGONIA Río Gallegos It is the capital city of Santa Cruz province, 2,700 km and about 3 hours away from Buenos Aires (by direct flight). Located on the banks of the river of the same name by the Atlantic Ocean, it concentrates all the commercial and administrative activities of the southern region of Patagonia, carried out around the deep-water port from where wool and coal production is exported. The international airport links the city with the rest of the country. In the outskirts, stands Isla de los Pingüinos ( Penguins' Island ), in Cabo del Buen Tiempo, that can be reached on foot during low tide. 62 km southward from Río Gallegos is situated the geological reserve of Laguna Azul ( Blue Lagoon ), formed at the bottom of an inactive volcanic crater, surrounded by the moon-like landscape of lava and stones characteristic of Cadena del Diablo ( Devil s Range - Mount Aymond). The lagoon depth is estimated in some 1,000 m. Further on, 134 km south from Río Gallegos, is located Cabo Vírgenes where stands the beautiful and lonely 26-meters-tall lighthouse, built at the beginning of the XX century, that indicates the end of Continental Argentina, 2,700 km away from Buenos Aires. There is in the area a reserve of Magellan Penguins that houses 80,000 couples of these birds which nest here from October to March. Near the cliff can be seen the meager remains of Ciudad del Nombre de Jesús ( Christ s name city ) founded by one of the first pioneering Spanish explorers that reach the region in Southward, it is possible to see the Strait of Magellan,witness of the innumerable attempts made by those pioneers that in the XVI and XVII centuries sailed these waters in search for the passage that link Europe with the Eastern realms. The strait separates the continent from the island of Tierra del Fuego. Río Gallegos was formerly the entrance to the glacier region because the closest airport was situated in this city, though there is now a modern International airport in El Calafate, now the real gateway to the glaciers. Anyway, if you wish to catch the true spirit of the Patagonian steppe you may travel at least one way the 320 km northwestward to El Calafate along the never ending Patagonian roads through the vast plateau with the only company of the sky, the poor arid vegetation and the horizon. 150 km from Río Gallegos the tiny town of La Esperanza, is the only place to refresh for a while. There is a gas station, a police station, a first-aid ward and a coffee-shop. SOUTHERN PATAGONIA El Calafate It is a nice tourist village of a little more than 3,000 inhabitants, that nestles at the base of the cliff on the shore of the vast Lake Argentino ( Argentine Lake ) and which offers very good and varied accommodation. It is surrounded by small farms that grow vegetables and fruit trees forming a belt around the small urban center. The city is crossed by El Calafate Stream, which divides the village in two. A few meters from the center of the city, a gravel road leads to Nimes Lagoon, near the lake shore, a small bird reserve which houses an important population of black-necked swans, flamingoes, ducks and upland geese surrounded by a dark sand beach. Some 8 km from El Calafate the Punta Walichu Cave which gathers some replicas of paintings made by the local aborigines more than 4,000 years ago. These reproductions of the original paintings helps visitors to understand a world unknown to them. El Calafate is the National Capital of the Glaciers and the most important city in the area. Traveling 51 km from El Calafate, you reach the Parque Nacional Los Glaciares ( Glaciers National Park ), which protects an area covered by glacier tongues coming down from the Campo de Hielo Sur ( Southern Patagonian Ice Cap ), relicts of the last glaciations in the Quaternary Period. Its core is in the Andes between the 40º and 51º parallels of southern latitude. This field adopts a longitudinal shape running from north to south with an extension of about 350 km and a surface of 14,300 km 2 approximately. 47 major glaciers descend from this ice field, some of them belonging to the Atlantic basin, such as: Marconi, Viedma, Moyano, Upsala, Bolados, Onelli, Agazzis, Peineta, Spegazzini, Mayo,Heims, Ameghino, Perito Moreno and Frías. All of these spill over the Argentino and Viedma Lakes, which determines the particular turquoise color of their waters due to the sediments and minerals dragged from the rocky beds of these ice rivers on the mountain slopes, that remain in suspension in the waters since their specific weight is lower to the water's. This allows natural light to penetrate only to a certain depth. The most renown of all the glaciers is the Perito Moreno Glacier. Situated 80 km from El Calafate, it is the most easily reached among them. This is an imposing ice river, 3-kilometer wide and 70-meter high in its front wall, that descends from the Campo de Hielo Sur down to the lake, at Canal de los Témpanos ( Icebergs Channel ), only 200 meters above sea level. It is the only glacier in the area which is considered to be in equilibrium, that is: not receding. It has always been the most important attraction of the region thanks to its spectacular beauty, but specially because of its unusual behavior. The glacier slowly advances down the mountain slope towards the lake, producing, as it spills down, thunderous noises and ruptures. Till a few years ago, the glacier used to grow till reaching Península Magallanes, on the opposite margin of the lake, across the Canal de los Témpanos, blocking the natural flow of the water from one arm of the lake into the other, thus the pressure of the water trying to recover its natural course increased from year to year 134

135 until it pierced the ice dam, producing the famous fracture. This unique phenomenon took place every 4-year periods or so, with tons of ice yielding to the force of the water, and bursting in a fascinating and thunderous dance of huge deep blue and green ice blocks turning upside down. This process lasted up to 36 hours; peace and silence returned afterwards. The last fracture took place in 1988 and from then onwards the glacier has not been able to reach the peninsula; some scientists think it is a natural cycle matter while some others think that the global warming is to be blamed. The Perito Moreno Glacier was declared Mankind s Heritage by UNESCO. The front wall of the glacier can be appreciated from a series of walkways and belvederes situated on the peninsula. Adventure tourism has strongly developed in the last decades and it has made it possible for many people to enter intangible areas where there is very little infrastructure. This is the case of the so-called Minitrekking on the surface of the Perito Moreno Glacier. Sailing from Bajo de la Sombra Pier, located on the road that goes to the Perito Moreno Glacier, 7 km before reaching the walkways, the Rico Arm of the lake is crossed towards the southern margin of the lake. A short walk through a virgin forest up to the lateral moraines (or glacial sediments) of the glacier, allows visitors to reach the glacier. Here, the expert guides assist the inexperienced visitors to put on the crampons in order to enjoy an expedition on the millenary ice. An unforgettable experience that does not require any special training. Other ways to approach to the Perito Moreno Glacier are the boat excursions that depart from the local piers: the Nautical Safari,a 1-hour navigation facing the south wall of the glacier, embarking at Bajo de las Sombras Pier; or the Moreno Fiesta, another 1-hour navigation along the north wall of the glacier, embarking at Moreno Pier. Some of the other glaciers are accessible by boat, most of the excursions departing from Puerto Bandera, situated 47 km from El Calafate. A few kilometers away from the port the boats reach the narrowest strait of the Lake Argentino, known as Boca del Diablo (Devil s Mouth). It is 1.5 km wide and it is the gateway to the North Arm of the lake. Pushed by the wind, numerous icebergs detached from the glacier fronts drift majestically on the water surface. The Spegazzini Glacier, located on the channel of the same name, has a surface of only 66 km 2, and is one of the most beautiful glaciers in the area with easy access. It is the one who boasts a highest wall over the lake surface due to its position between mountains. Once in the Onelli Bay, located on the channel of the same name, it is possible to disembark at the Juan Piñeiro Pier to walk through an ancient forest of lengas and ñires. After an 800-meter walk, you reach Lake Onelli where the Bolado, Onelli and Agassiz glaciers come down together towards the lagoon filling the waters with drifting icebergs. On the shore of the Onelli Bay, there is a comfortable restaurant where it is possible to shelter from the cold and enjoy a bit of the simple but delicious local cuisine. The Lake Argentino reaches its deepest point (over 1,000 m) in front of Upsala Glacier, located two and a half hours away from Puerto Bandera. It is the largest continental glacier in the southern hemisphere with 595 km 2.The vessels approach to the glacial Southern Patagonia Lago Argentino Gl. Perito Moreno Mte. Stokes m Torres del Paine Scale in km Charles Fuhr El Calafate J. Dufour El Turbio Pt. Natales N Río Santa Cruz Santa Cruz 7 Esperanza Cancha Carrera Río Gallegos Morro Chico Punta Arenas 9 40 CHILE Estrecho de Magallanes Enlarged Puerto Coig Area 3 Río Gallegos Monte Aymond Porvenir front as much as it is permitted by the mass of drifting icebergs. The glacier can also be reached by land, navigating into the Cristina Channel, towards the west of the Upsala Channel, and disembarking on the east bank of Península Herminita, at Estancia Cristina, to start a 3-hour walk upward along an old path opened by the Argentine Navy. During the walk, you will go across a lengas and ñires forest with a series of carved terraces and rocks perfectly polished by glacial erosion. The Cañadón de los Fósiles ( Gorge of the Fossils ) is a very good example thereof. Some 800 meters before arriving at the east wall of the glacier the Upsala Refuge, former seat of the Instituto del Hielo Continental Patagónico Argentino ( Argentine Patagonian Continental Ice Cap Institute ), built in 1953 to study the behavior of the glaciers of the area is based. The final point of this walk is a natural belvedere with a magnificent view of the Upsala Glacier, the valley and Mounts Cono, Bertachi and Murallón and their hanging glaciers. Sailing across the South Arm of the Lake Argentino, it is possible to reach Bull s Bay. In this area, the highest mountains reflect into the bottom of the lake and create an imposing combination of green forests and eternal glaciers. This is the image of Mount Mayo with its glacier and of Mounts Negro and Ballena. A small black sand beach on the Toro Bay allows the access to a sector of the Andean-Patagonian forest of particular beauty where, besides the typical flora of the region, it is possible to see huge trees 135

136 Laguna del Desierto Lago San Martín Lago Cardiel Enlarged Area Co.Colorado m Brazo Chacabuco Mta. La Siberia 73 Co. Torre Mte. Fitz Roy m El Chaltén 23 Mta. del Viento L. Tar 31 Santa Cruz 40 Meseta del Bagual Chico Ea. Helsingfors Lago Viedma Ea. Santa Teresita Tres Lagos 40 Punta del Lago 288 CHILE Parque Nacional Los Glaciares 4 Gl. Spegazzini 3 5 Gl. Ameghino Guardaparque Bahía Cristiana Monte Avellaneda Brazo Spegazzini 1 2 Gl. Perito Moreno Brazo Upsala Brazo Norte 19 Punta Bandera 8 Canal de los Témpanos Brazo Sur Brazo Rico 69 Lago Argentino Sierra Baguales La Leona R. La Leona whose trunks are over 2 m. wide and up to 25 m. tall. Going through this forest, you arrive to the Del Toro Cascade, whose last fall is 60 m. high. The most important glacier in this area is Glacier Mayo, located in one of the most abrupt fjords of the Andes and surrounded by a dense forest. The icebergs of this glacier flow in a small lagoon, under the imposing towering mass of Mount Mayo El Calafate Mta. de las Vizcachas Referencias Recorridos lacustres Seno Mayor Puerto Las Vacas Glaciar Seco Bahía Onelli Glaciar Upsala Río Santa Cruz Charles Fuhr Río Bote Santa Cruz 9 El Cerrito 5 Scale in km N Lake Roca, located to the south of Lake Argentino, only 65 km from El Calafate, is an ideal place to walk around, horse ride, fish and camp. The way up to this place is a typically Patagonian road, where it is possible to observe the local flora (broom sedge, calafate shrubs and other weeds) and several ovine cattle-raising ranches, where is interesting to visit the huge shearing barns, which come to life during the shearing season from December to February. It is also possible to observe a few original rupestrian paintings that will allow visitors to get in touch with the history of the primitive inhabitants of this lands. Passing by Lake Roca, the road finally ends at Estancia Nibepo Aike, located on the South Arm of Lake Argentino, where you can take advantage of the chance to taste some delicious Patagonian lamb. From there you a walking path that skirts the shore of the South Arm towards the Tres de Abril and Fría Lagoons, offers a great view of the majestic mountains of the Torres del Paine National Park in Chile (in spite of the proximity between both parks, there is no direct road that links them). SOUTHERN PATAGONIA El Chaltén The legendary peaks of the Mounts Torre and Fitz Roy stand out in the middle of the flat Patagonian steppe and they attract numerous professional climbers and amateur trekkers from all over the world. Short lateral valleys stretched before the mountain chains make the access to this amazing scenery quite difficult. A wide variety of walks differing in difficulty and length can be done in this region. From El Calafate, this area is reached through 220 km most of which are done along the legendary Route 40, that runs parallel to the Andes up to the north of the country. El Chaltén was the name given by the local tehuelche aborigines, primitive inhabitants of the region, to the mountain known nowadays as Mount Fitz Roy. The word 'Chaltén' means mountain that smokes, probably because its summit is always covered with a layer of clouds. Its particular shape, huge height and the constant clouds must have served them as an orientation signal during their annual migrations from the Atlantic Ocean to the Andes. Its summit can be easily seen from different places. This tiny village, of less than 500 inhabitants, situated at the foothill of this impressive massif, is in constant growth. It has inns, hostels, restaurants and campsites. The town is the starting point of several 136

137 paths that lead to places that offer unique scenic beauties. One of the most popular walks is the one that leads to the first camping site of Mount Torre, from where is possible to admire the pick-carved-like granite walls of the summit which for many decades was considered inextricable, until it was conquered for the first time by the expedition headed by the Italian Cesare Maestri in The road up to Torre Lagoon is well indicated and easy to follow. There are about 10 km along a difficult steep path through forests, valleys and rivers of extraordinary beauty. The effort is rewarded, however, by the astonishing landscape offered by the mountain that reflects into the lagoon at its foothill. Another of the walks that are a must in the area is the one up to Mount Fitz Roy camp base. The first stop is at Capri Lagoon,reached after a one and a half-hour walk, to get an impressive view of Mount Fitz Roy, which does not diminish, however, the beauty of the unique and lonely landscape of the lagoon and its surrounding forests and peaks. Going on westward you reach the Blanco River, from where the camp basis is just a few steps away. Therefrom the last effort up the steep slope that separates the Laguna de los Tres from the campsite is faced, to reach finally the most outstanding and rewarding view of the lagoon and the huge massif reflecting into the waters. A shorter walk leads to Chorrillo del Salto, another of the attractions of the area; and another paths leads to Piedra del Fraile from where a great view of the whole massifs of Mount Torre and Fitz Roy is obtained. It is also interesting to visit by car or on horseback the renown Lago del Desierto. Besides these classical full day hikes, there are several other adventures that take a few days spending the nights at campsites. The most interesting ones are those that ascend to the gates of the Continental Ice Field up to the spot called Paso del Viento or to the one known as Paso Marconi. But the most challenging experience is to traverse a portion of the enormous ice cap, joining some of the organized expeditions, called Continental Ice Cap Traverse. They take about 12 days, to cross the extraordinary mass of ice from Paso Marconi to Lake Viedma. These traverses involve walking across glacial moraines; climbing up and down sharp slopes; traversing over the bare ice itself or over deep, fresh snow blanketing the glacier surfaces and traversing over crevasses as well, which often make it necessary to rope the expedition members. The experience requires not only a strong sense of adventure, but also psychological and physical conditions to afford one the most severe climate conditions in the world. Route 40 goes on northward and following it will provide and endless variety of impressive landscapes, as it pierces the Central Patagonian steppe. RIO TURBIO The tiny town of Río Turbio is situated in the southwest extreme of the Santa Cruz province, near the Chilean frontier, 278 km from Río Gallegos and 300 km from El Calafate. It has a permanent population of about 7,000 inhabitants, most of whom work in the coal industry. There is also a cross-country and alpine ski station called Valdelen, near the Chilean border, visited mainly by local people. From the top of the slope, it is possible to see the deep bays and fjords of the Chilean channels on the Pacific Ocean and the summits of Torres del Paine National Park. From Río Turbio, it is possible to reach Puerto Natales, Chilean city deemed as the gateway to the National Park. The area is more closely accessible from El Calafate through the border crossing of Cancha Carrera Cerro Castillo. Torres del Paine is, undoubtedly, the most attractive of the Chilean National Parks, specially because of the characteristic bold features of the Paine Range Peaks reflected in the deep bluish waters of its glacial lakes. Paine, as well as the Mount Fitz Roy area, is worldwide considered a trekking paradise. The highlight of the Park is the Paine Massif, a set of mountains towering at the southwester rim of the Continental Ice Field, outstanding due to the attractive shapes of its peaks: The Horns, colored horn-shaped spires of intrusive granite into dark sedimentary rock, and The Towers, consisting of three granite tower-shaped peaks with perfectly vertical walls, with the dark glacial lake stretching at their feet, increasing the dramatic beauty of the landscape. Hiking or driving around to discover the most fascinating views in the park, a must for any visitor. Surrounding the Paine Range, the impressive views of Lakes Pehoé, Njordenskjold and Grey; the latter with bluish icebergs detached from the enormous glacier of the same name. Mighty rivers, powerful cascades, dense forests, and a varied fauna give the final touch to this marvelous scenery. One of the most challenging adventures available, is a traverse all around the Paine Massif, that takes 9 to 11 days. From Argentina, its is possible to reach the region through any of the five border crossing that follows: Cancha Carrera (AR) Cerro Castillo (CH): it is the one closest to the Torres del Paine area, located 88 km from the administrative center of the National Park and 292 km from El Calafate. This pass is closed in winter. Río Turbio: (AR) Casas Viejas or La Laurita (CH): it links Río Turbio with Puerto Natales Mina Uno (AR) - Dorotea (CH): it also links the cities of Río Turbio and Puerto Natales; located 350 km from El Calafate and 247 km north from Punta Arenas. It is open all year round. Monte Aymond (AR): it links Río Gallegos with Punta Arenas (252 km). San Sebastián (AR): it is the only border crossing which links Tierra del Fuego to the continent. There are ferries that cross the Magellan Strait from San Sebastián to Porvenir in two hours. From there to Ushuaia there are 456 km by land, passing by the city of Río Grande. Southern Patagonia 137

138 SOUTHERN PATAGONIA Ushuaia Southern Patagonia Under the Patagonian sky, between Cape Horn and the Magellan Strait, an extended archipelago emerges. The largest island is Tierra del Fuego,a land of legends that lit the popular imagination in the era of the conquerors; it attracted gold chasers, adventurers, pirates, missionaries and scientists. The widespread idea of Tierra del Fuego as a barren and icy region, is far from reality. This is a lively and fertile land full of flowers, woods and birds. This is a paradise of eternally snowed peaks, majestic millenary glaciers, the so-called flag trees shaped-by-the-wind, a great deal of marine fauna. At the southern end of the American Continent, the Andean Cordillera plunges into the ocean producing a large archipelago of islands and rock keys, where there is a variety of channels, fiords and bays, glaciers, lakes and peat bogs, with lush forests and important fauna reserves. Here, the so resistant Nothophagus species of trees impose their almost exclusive presence. Likens, ferns and mosses appear all over, as well, particularly the sphagnum moss that form huge peat bogs. The island is divided between Argentina and Chile. The capital city of the Argentine Tierra del Fuego province, known as the southernmost city in the world, is 3,040 km from Buenos Aires. It is located in the southern end, facing the Beagle Channel, and surrounded by the Martial Mounts Range, towering at its back. In fact, the city stretches over its slopes, frames by a one-of-a-kind scenery of mountains, ocean, glaciers, lakes and forests. Southwards from the coast, the view of the Ushuaia Bay and the Beagle Channel, and the Chilean islands of Navarino and Hoste is superb. The End of the World Museum exhibits an important patrimony related to the history of the city and its primitive inhabitants. Near downtown, the Ushuaia Maritime Museum occupies the building belonging to the former maximum security presidium of Ushuaia called Presidio y Cárcel de Reincidentes. Very dangerous convicts and well known political prisoners made this prison famous. It worked as a prison until 1947 though one of its buildings is still kept in its original conditions, relating the history of this prison that played an important role in the history of the city, since all its staff lived therein and even the prisoners contributed with their work to its development. The Admiral s Berisso Navy Base operates here. occupied by the Andean-Patagonian or Sub- Antarctic Forest with trees belonging to the family of the Nothophagus, such as: ñires (low deciduous beach tree), coihues or guindos (evergreen beach tree) and the most important: lengas (high deciduous beach tree) as well as some other species in a lower proportion. Due to the diversity of climates and vegetation of this territory, over 200 bird species have been registered including the majestic Condor, known as the King of the Andes. In the forest, two mammalian species stand out : the rabbit and the beaver (both species exotic to the local environ- f Enlarged Area Río Claro L. Yehuin L.Chepelmut Only 12 km west from Ushuaia the access to the Tierra del Fuego National Park is reached. The park is a fantastic natural space where numerous flora and fauna species live together in harmony. The park offers a different landscape during each season of the year; the flowers and the varied bird species are the main attraction in the summer. About 500 flowers species, distributed from the sea level to a height of 700 meters have been classified. Thirty percent of the total surface of the park is Parque Nacional de Tierra del Fuego Río Oliva Bahía Lapataia CHILE 3 Ea. Vieja Carmen Ve. Tierra Mayor Las Cotorras Rancho Hambre Ushuaia Pt. Navarino Lago Escondido Lago Fagnano H. Petrel T ierra del Fuego Canal de Beagle j Isla Navarino Puerto Almanza Lago San Ricardo Ea. Harberton I.Gable Pt. Williams Scale in km N 138

139 ment). The latter is the one that has caused the greatest impact on the environment, specially on the hydraulic system, building dams that change the course of the waters and flood extended sections of the woods. The park is also an excellent place for adventure tours. One choice is a one-day hike focused on flora and fauna understanding, visiting beaver dams and climbing up to a panoramic view point that allows to get a great view covering the area from Lake Roca to Lapataia Bay. A more demanding choice is a three-day trekking to the Laguna del Caminante ('Walker's Lagoon ), whose extraordinary beauty framed by one of the most beautiful landscapes of Tierra del Fuego, is rarely visited in spite of being so close to the city, due to its difficult access. On the way to the park, the road goes through the Estancia Río Pipo where the typical Restaurant Tolkeyén, offers the possibility of tasting the delicious Patagonian lamb barbecue, one of the typical dishes of the regional cuisine, along with the kingcrab. Nearby, the Central Station stands close to Pipo River. This is the departing point of the already famous Southern Fuegian Railway, renown as the Train of the End of the World.It is a small 120-seat train that enters the National Park stopping at different interesting sites. The train follows the old terreplein of the small train that worked until 1947 carrying prisoners from the Ushuaia Presidium to the forest in search of wood for heating. Traces of this destructive activity are still sadly notorious in the woods. The train goes through Pipo River across the Burnt Bridge and makes its first stop at Cascada de la Macarena ( Macarena s Cascade ). Here, you can see a reconstruction of a aboriginal Yamana or Shelkman settlement, called Río Ajej. The final section of the journey, runs along the Cañadón del Toro ( Bull s Canyon ), to reach finally the end of the railways. It is possible to choose them between continuing the excursion to the National Park, or undoing the way back to the Central Station. The excursion goes on to Lapataia Bay, the southernmost tip of Argentina, on the coasts of Beagle Channel, and the final end of National Route 3, at 3,300 km from Buenos Aires. It is most interesting to observe there the concheros, invaluable archaeological sites which have produced incredible information about the customs of the primitive local inhabitants, their habits and their every day life. Other interesting places within the National Park are, Lake Roca and its nearby teahouse, Pipo River Cascade, and Ensenada Bay, from where it is possible to embark into a little boat towards Isla Redonda ( Round-shaped Island ), an intangible zone of the park, where an interesting flora interpretation path has been outlined and where the southernmost post office in Argentina is located. Sailing the waters of Beagle Channel is a must, the gateway to the waters of the end of the world. Different vessels set sail from the Tourist Pier, near downtown. Sailing across Ushuaia Bay, a charming view of the city and the surrounding mountains is admired, till reaching Paso Chico ( Narrow Pass ), which indicates the entrance to the mythical Beagle Channel, which still preserves its halo of mystery and ancient memories of old shipwrecks. However, it is the perfect place to observe marine fauna in its natural environment. The boat reaches the Birds Island, close to Bridges Archipelago, where, as guardians over the rocks, the Imperial and Magellan cormorants deceive visitors with their appearance of penguins, living along with a wide variety of marine fauna formed by albatrosses, petrels, seagulls and ducks. Within short distance, the Sea Lions' Island,emerges packed with both one-haired and towhaired sea lions that seem to be sunbathing. Nearby, the Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse, only witness to the wreckage of the German ship Monte Cervantes, back in 1930, stands on the island of the same name. Further on, the Martillo Island, known as Penguins Island, boasts an important rookery of Magellan penguins. Just in front of it, Estancia Harberton is located on the homonymous bay, facing the crystal clear waters of the channel. The estancia may also be reached overland from Ushuaia. It belongs to the Bridges family and it is the oldest construction of the Island with elements brought directly from England in the XIX century. From Harberton Bay, it is possible to glimpse the Chilean Hoste Island, chosen by Jules Verne as the setting for a improbable republic in one of his novels. Further east, from the estancia, which is probably the most unexplored section of the island stretches. It is a 5,000 km 2 triangle inhabited only by guanacos, foxes, geese and varied marine fauna, including penguins, sea lions, and occasionally, even some whales. It is called Península Mitre. It was a mythical land for the Onas, primitive inhabitants of the land and also the stage of the first encounter of these cultures with white men. Hundreds of vessels shipwrecked near its coasts, and the relics of some of them still remain laid on the beach- Southern Patagonia 139

140 Southern Patagonia es as well as devices that belonged to the old gold searchers that lucklessly wandered in the region; speechless witnesses of the useless attempts of civilized men to tame this hostile land. A ten-day horse riding expedition along the coast to the eastern extreme of the island is s superb choice for those in search of challenging adventures. The western portion of Tierra del Fuego Island, in Chilean territory, stretches in an enormous peninsula where the highest peaks of the Insular Andes soar up. Up to 2,000 meter-high massifs that seem to emerge out of the ocean: the Cordillera Darwin. A legendary territory largely covered by an massive ice layer, just a small example, of what was the last glacier period. The deep fjords characteristic of its coastal line are another fantastic trace left by the erosive action of the glaciers. Glaciers that slide unnoticed from the Ice Field towards those fjords, finally breaking off in hundreds of incredibly bluish or greenish icebergs. The iced peaks of Cordillera Darwin, most of them unconquered, are always amazing for the few visitors that have the rare privilege of admiring them. A cruise sailing from Punta Arenas to Ushuaia (or vice versa) makes it possible to get in touch with this untouched beauty. Another way is joining one of the few trekking and climbing expeditions explorations organized in this area. Leaving Ushuaia northbound, bordering the river that descends from Mount Olivia, symbol of the city, the road goes through the Andes. The landscape is featured by a series of beautiful valleys and mountain ranges such as the Carbajal Valley and the Alvear Range that extend up to the Garibaldi Pass (430 meters above sea level). Many winter sport resorts have taken adventure of these most proper terrain for the practice of different activities such us cross-country ski, mainly, and also Alpine ski, dog sled, snow cat, hiking with racquet snowshoes. Some of them are: Cerro Castor, Tierra Mayor, Las Cotorras, Valle de los Huskies and Haruwen. From Paso Garibaldi, a great view of the Lake Escondido (Hidden Lake) in the first term, and Lake Fagnano as a backdrop, is obtained. Down, by the lake shore, the charming Hostería Petrel is settled. Going on northbound, towards Lake Fagnano, along the main route, it is possible to observe several sawmills, most of which are nowadays closed, even if they were prosperous in the past. Traveling just a few miles away from the main road, you enter a harsh and barren land, with quite rare traces of human presence, without paved roads or human settlements. The ideal setting for those who love nature, adventure and solitude. Notwithstanding wandering in such a terrain poses some obstacles, such us overcoming fallen trees, walking over beaver dams, crossing dense forests, avoiding peat bogs and crossing rivers though improvised trunk bridges or, sometimes, fording barefoot though the cold water. The difficulties involved in the task are a lot, but they precisely bring along its main attractiveness: to feel a intimate contact with pristine nature. One of the best trekking alternatives available, is to cross the Beban's Pass. Beban was an old inhabitant of the island who, around 1920, while he was chasing some prisoners escaped from the presidium, reached the pass for the first time, discovering the mirror of water that the local aborigines used to call Kami. The area still preserves the same mystery and amazing beauty that Beban found in the old times. Lake Kami is the one known nowadays as Lake Fagnano. The lake, that occupies an important geological fault, parallel to the one that formed the Beagle Channel, is the largest one in the island (110 km long and 5 to 8 km wide), and flows into the Pacific Ocean. Lake Fagnano appears in the middle of an bleak and mostly inhabited area, with the only exception of Tolhuin, town situated in the eastern head of the lake, just in the Heart of the Island, as the areas has come to be called. And the name itself is an Ona aboriginal word meaning heart-shaped. The town is starting point of many different alternative tourism excursions. North from Lake Fagnano, an area of transition between the Andean and the steppe environment appears. The area where Lake Yehuín and Lake Chepelmut are situated. Their turquoise waters flowing southwards, across a system of connected mountain valleys, that lead to Lake Fagnano. Canoeing along this streams and connected lakes, facing a myriad of obstacles becomes a unique experience that allows a close contact with nature. By then, all traces of the Andean-Patagonian forest has been left behind. Landscape is definitively dominated by the characteristic steppe vegetation. The city of Río Grande is located in this area. It is mainly dedicated to oil exploitation and exploration but there are also some industries, mostly electronic and textile companies, that are what remains of the Law of Industrial Encouragement dating back to At present many of them are closed. In the outskirts of the city, there are numerous estancias devoted to sheep raising. Its location, by the homonymous river, makes the city an important center of game fishing, specially for trout and salmon. From there, National Route 3, to the north, leads to San Sebastián,from where it is possible to cross the border to Chile and then, across the Magellan Strait, reach the continent. 140

141 SOUTHERN PATAGONIA Antarctica Every summer, the region is visited in cruisers that offer different itineraries, with short zodiac boat trips that allow passengers to get more closely in touch with the resource. Several deluxe and expedition cruises, handled by different international shipping companies, set sail from the port of Ushuaia, from December to February. The liners visit not only the continental sector of Antarctica but also the Falkland Islands, and other nearby islands. All of them are intensive learning experiences since they enhance the importance of history, geology, flora and fauna. Pursuing the best protection of the environment, all shore and on-board activities are strictly ruled by the Antarctic Protocol Treaty. The Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas) are located within the territorial waters of the Argentine Sea in the Atlantic Ocean. The Archipelago is made up of two big islands: East Falkland (Isla Soledad) and West Falkland Isla Gran Malvina Isla Soledad Islas Malvinas (Arg.) Tierra del Fuego D r a k e s P a s s a g e 74º Islas Shetland del Sur Base Primavera Base Brown Base San Martín Atlantic Ocean Scotia Sea 60º Base Esperanza Base Marambio Base Matienzo Islas Orcadas del Sur Islas Georgias del Sur ARGENTINE ANTARCTICA 25º (Isla Gran Malvina), separated by the Falkland Sound (Estrecho de San Carlos), and hundreds of smaller islands. The surrounding waters are rich in fish, crustaceans and mollusks and its coasts possess numerous penguin colonies and a wide variety of marine fauna. The islands were named after the French marines of Saint-Maló, who were the first men to settle here at the beginning of They belonged to the Río de la Plata Viceroyalty (Spanish Colony) and passed on to Argentine possession after independence. Though since 1833 the islands have been under British rule. A triangular sector with vertex in the South Pole, only 500 km from Tierra del Fuego, is occupied by the so-called Argentine Antarctica. The triangle includes the Antarctic Peninsula and numerous surrounding islands and archipelagos. The first explorers of the area were the seal hunters, who almost caused the total extinction of the species. It is one of the most striking landscapes in the world; an immense white desert that melts with the blue sky. The climate in the Antarctic Peninsula is relatively mild during summer, with an average temperature of -5º C, while the average temperature in the South Pole is about - 50º C. Argentina, as many other nations, holds scientific bases in the region. The beauty of the landscape along with the close contact with virgin nature are the main attractions for those joining the cruises voyaging the region. However, the feeling of traveling almost unreachable places situated close to the end of the world, and accessible for just a few people, are not a poor attraction. Its natural wealth and its fauna render it one of the most appealing areas in the world. Across the Drake Passage the Southern Shetland Islands emerge, very close to the Antarctic Peninsula, are easily accessible not only from the continent but also from the continental lands of Antarctica, which gives scientists the opportunity to investigate an area rich in plants and animals. Physics and observers of the geomagnetic phenomena carry out valuable studies in this area. In the Southern Georgias, Sandwich and Orkney Islands,a important colonies of King Penguins welcome the visitors. Mountainous lands and extended glaciers cover the islands. Southern Patagonia W eddell Sea Barrera de Hielos Ronne Base Belgrano Photos provided by Quark Expeditions South Pole Scale in km N 141

142 SOUTHERN PATAGONIA Río Gallegos CABO VÍRGENES PENGUIN ROOKERY FULL DAY TOUR (6 hours). Total distance traveled: 270 km. Itinerary: departure from hotel Cabo Vírgenes Lighthouse Penguin Rookery Return to hotel. LAGUNA AZUL HALF DAY TOUR (4 hours). Total distance traveled: 125 km. Itinerary: Departure from hotel Laguna Azul (Blue Lagoon) Return to hotel. SOUTHERN PATAGONIA El Calafate PERITO MORENO GLACIER FULL DAY TOUR (7 hours). Total distance traveled: 160 km. Itinerary: Departure from hotel Península Magallanes Parque Nacional Los Glaciares Glacier front walkways Return to hotel. Optional: lunch; NAUTICAL SAFARI: Several daily departures 1-hour sailing tour: Embarkation at Bajo de las Sombras Pier South front of the Glacier Return to pier; MORENO FIESTA: Several daily departures 1 hour sailing tour: Embarkation at Moreno Pier North front of the Glacier - Return to pier. Optional: Lunch UPSALA GLACIER AND ONELLI BAY ICE RIVERS FULL DAY SAILING TOUR (9 hours). Total distance traveled: 210 km. Itinerary: Departure from hotel Embarkation at Puerto Bandera Sailing along Lake Argentino Upsala Glacier Onelli Bay Walking tour in the woods to see the Onelli, Bolados and Agassiz Glaciers Return to the pier Transfer to hotel. Optional: Lunch. 142

143 UPSALA, ONELLI AND SPEGAZZINI GLACIERS NOTHING BUT GLACIERS FULL DAY SAILING TOUR (12 hours). Total distance traveled: 260 km. Itinerary: Departure from hotel - Embarkation at Puerto Bandera - Sailing along the North Arm of Lake Argentino - Upsala Glacier - Onelli Bay - Walking tour in the wood to see the Onelli, Bolado and Agassiz Glaciers Sailing on to Spegazzini Glacier - View of the Seco, Spegazzini and Southern Heims Glaciers - Return to the pier - Transfer to hotel. Optional: Lunch UPSALA EXPLORER FULL DAY SAILING TOUR (14 hours). Total distance traveled: 230 km. Itinerary: Departure from hotel Embarkation at Puerto Bandera 2-hour sail Upsala Glacier front Estancia Cristina 4WD climb up to the Upsala Glacier lookout (subject road conditions) Hiking Lunch Return to the pier - Transfer to hotel. MINITREKKING OVER PERITO MORENO GLACIER FULL DAY SAILIG AND TREKKING TOUR (9 hours). Total distance traveled: 150 km. Itinerary: Departure from hotel Parque Nacional Los Glaciares Embarkation at Bajo de las Sombras Pier Crossing of the Rico Arm - Disembarkation at Mt. Moreno shore - Walking tour on the Perito Moreno Glacier Glacier front walkways - Return to hotel. Optional: box lunch ONLY UPSALA FULL DAY SAILING TOUR. Total distance traveled: 195 km. Itinerary: Departure from hotel Embarkation at Puerto Bandera Sailing - Arrival at Cristina Bay - Trekking and view of the Northern Mount - View of: Scientific Station of the Argentine Patagonian Continental Ice Institute - Upsala Shelter - Upsala, Murallón and Cono Glaciers, Condor s Nest - Hiking back to the pier - Return to the hotel. Optional: Lunch Southern Patagonia MAYO, MORENO TREKKING FULL DAY SAILING TOUR (8 hours). Total distance traveled: 150 km. Itinerary: Departure from hotel Parque Nacional Los Glaciares Glacier front walkways 1-hour sail facing the Northern Wall Sail on through the Southern Arm Bahía Tranquila ( Peaceful Bay ) - Seno Mayo ( May Sound ) - Disembarkation at Toro Bay 1-hour trekking - View of Mount Mayo and its glacier - View of the Mount Negro and its glacier - Return to Puerto Moreno - Transfer to hotel. Optional: lunch. FITZ ROY FULL DAY TOUR (12 hours). Total distance traveled: 490 km. Itinerary: Departure from hotel - La Leona River - El Chaltén Time at leisure for different hikes - Return to hotel. Optional: local trekking guide. 143

144 LAKE ROCA AND ESTANCIA NIBEPO AIKE FULL DAY TOUR (7 hours). Total distance traveled: 130 km. Itinerary: Departure from the hotel Estancia Anita: visit to the shearing barn Rupestrian paintings Lake Roca Estancia Nibepo Aike Time at leisure for optional activities Return to hotel. Optional: lamb barbecue lunch; walks; fishing; horse riding. ESTANCIA EL GALPON HALF DAY TOUR (5 hours) Total distance traveled: 40 km. Itinerary: Departure from hotel Arrival at Estancia El Galpón Walking to the Bird's Lagoon dog prodding of sheep cattle sheep shearing demonstration Patagonian lamb barbecue and afternoon tea with local home made pastries Return to hotel. CITY TOUR AND WALICHU CAVES HALF DAY TOUR (3 hours). Total distance traveled: 25 km. Itinerary: Departure from hotel Visit to the old town Nimes Lagoon (bird-watching) Walichu Caves Virgen de la Paz Lookout Return to the hotel. Southern Patagonia CALAFATE BALCONY HALF DAY TOUR (3 hours). Total distance traveled: 40 km. Itinerary: Departure from the hotel Drive up Huyluiche Range Calafate Balcony (lookout) Return to Calafate Transfer to hotel. THE SLEEPING INDIAN ROUTE FULL DAY 4WD TOUR (6 hours). Total distance traveled: 120 km. Itinerary: Departure from hotel Calafate Balcony Stone Maze Panoramic View of Moreno Glacier; Mount, Mount Pietrobelli, Torres del Paine Massif, Baguales Range, Mount Fitz Roy and Torre Portezuelo Creek Canyon Sentry River Return to hotel. Optional: country lunch. VOYAGE AROUND THE COLONY FULL DAY 4WD TOUR (6 hours). Total distance traveled: 140 km. Itinerary: Departure from the hotel Lake Roca panoramic view of Mount Cervantes South wall of Moreno Glacier Return to hotel. Optional: country lunch. 144

145 HORSE-BACK RIDING Horse-riding with different itineraries, length and difficulty guided by local experts. ESTANCIA HELSINFORS 2 DAYS/1 NIGHT 2-DAYS TOUR Itinerary: Day 1: Departure from hotel Lake Viedma Overnight at Helsinfors. Day 2: Ramstrom Stream Walking or horse riding to Laguna Azul ( Blue Lagoon ) Return to hotel. Meals at the estancia included. SOUTHERN PATAGONIA Ushuaia CITY TOUR WITH MUSEUM HALF DAY TOUR (2 _ hours). Total distance traveled: 25 km. Itinerary: Departure from hotel Ushuaia Bay Downtown Port Industrial area World s End Museum Return to the hotel. Optional: Panoramic Point Liftchair and hiking up to Martial Glacier. Southern Patagonia TIERRA DEL FUEGO NATIONAL PARK HALF DAY TOUR (4 hours) Total distance traveled: 50 km. Itinerary: Departure from hotel Tierra del Fuego National Park Estancia Río Pipo Central Station of the Train Green Lagoon Walking tour to the Black Lagoon or to the Beavers trail Lapataia Bay Beagle Channel Lake Roca Return to hotel. Optional: Train of the End of the World. LAKE ESCONDIDO HALF DAY TOUR (5 hours). Total distance traveled: 110 km. Itinerary: Departure from hotel Industrial area Bride's Veil Cascade) Mount Olivia Winter sport resorts Garibaldi Pass Lake Escondido Petrel Inn Return to hotel. 145

146 LAKES ESCONDIDO AND FAGNANO FULL DAY TOUR (6 hours). Total distance traveled: 130 km. Itinerary: Departure from hotel Industrial Area Mount Olivia Winter sport resorts Garibaldi Pass Lake Escondido sawmills Lake Fagnano Return to the hotel. Includes: lunch. Photo by A. Camacho BEAGLE CHANNEL - SEA LIONS AND BIRDS ISLANDS HALF DAY SAILING TOUR (2 _ hours). Total distance traveled: 30 km. Itinerary: Departure from hotel Embarkation at Ushuaia Tourist Pier Navigation through Ushuaia Bay Beagle Channel Bridges Islands Birds' Island Sea Lions' Island Les Eclaireurs lighthouse Sail back the pier Return to hotel. BEAGLE CHANNEL - SEA LIONS, BIRDS ISLANDS AND PENGUINS ISLAND HALF DAY SAILING TOUR (4 _ hours). Itinerary: Departure from hotel Embarkation at Ushuaia Tourist Pier Navigation through Ushuaia Bay Beagle Channel Bridges Islands Birds' Island Sea Lions' Island Les Eclaireurs lighthouse Penguin Rookery (Isla Martillo) Sail back the pier Return to hotel. Southern Patagonia BEAGLE CHANNEL ESTANCIA HARBERTON HALF DAY SAILING TOUR (6 hours). Total distance traveled: 200 km. Itinerary: Departure from hotel Embarkation at Ushuaia Tourist Pier Navigation through Ushuaia Bay Beagle Channel Bridges Islands Birds' Island Sea Lions' Island Les Eclaireurs lighthouse Port Almanza Penguin Rookery (Isla Martillo) Harberton Bay Disembarkation and visit to Estancia Harberton Return to hotel (by boat or overland). Optional: Visit to the site museum. ESTANCIA HARBERTON FULL DAY TOUR (8 hours) Total distance traveled: 180 km. Itinerary: Departure from Ushuaia Industrial area Mount Olivia Rancho Hambre Brown Bay Beagle Channel Estancia Harberton, visit Return to hotel. Optional: Visit to the site museum. OVERFLIGHT 30-MINUTE FLIGHT. Departures subject to a minimum quantity of passengers. Itinerary: Departure from hotel to the local airport Overflight of the city of Ushuaia; Tierra del Fuego National Park: Mount Susana, Bull s Canyon, Lapataia Bay, Ensenada Bay, Lake Roca; Beagle Channel: Ushuaia Bay, Bridges Islands, Les Eclaireurs lighthouse; Mount Olivia Return to hotel. 146

147 PUERTO WILLIMS (CHILE) FULL DAY SAILING TOUR BY SAIL VESSEL (12 hours). Total distance traveled: 100 km. Itinerary: Departure from hotel Embarkation at Ushuaia Sport Pier - Navigation through Ushuaia Bay - Beagle Channel - Bridges Islands - Birds' Islands - Sea Lions' Island - Les Eclaireurs lighthouse Puerto Almanza (Customs and Migrations) Beagle Channel Crossing Disembarkation at Nautical Club Port in Puerto Williams (Customs and Migrations) - Martín Gusinde Museum - Ukika Village - Commercial area Sail back to Ushuaia (calling again at Puerto Almanza for the corresponding Custom and Migration formalities) - Return to the hotel. CABO DE HORNOS (CHILE) 5 TO 7-DAY SAILING TOUR BY SAIL VESSEL. Itinerary: Departure from hotel Embarkation at Ushuaia Sport Pier - Navigation through Ushuaia Bay - Beagle Channel - Bridges Islands - Birds' Islands - Sea Lions' Island - Les Eclaireurs lighthouse Puerto Almanza (Customs and Migrations) Beagle Channel Crossing Disembarkation at Nautical Club Port in Puerto Williams (Customs and Migrations) - Martín Gusinde Museum Continuation towards Cape Horn Sail back to Ushuaia (calling again at Puerto Williams and Puerto Almanza for the corresponding Custom and Migration formalities) - Return to the hotel. Southern Patagonia 147

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149 SOUTHERN PATAGONIA Río Gallegos Hotels Costa Río **** Appart Hotel Address: Av.San Martin 673 (Z9400IBG) - Río Gallegos Telephone/fax: (02966) / Comercio *** Address: Av. Julio A. Roca 1302 (Z9400BAZ) Río Gallegos. Telephone: (02966) Fax: Location: in the commercial area of Río Gallegos city. Accommodation: 45 rooms and 2 junior suites. All rooms are supplied with: carpeting, private bathroom, teephone with DDN/DDI, colour TV, programmed music system. Facilities and services: 24 hours room service, laundry service, parking, elevators, safe box, medical assistance. Restaurant: 1 coffe shop and 1 restaurant. Meeting facilities: 2 functional rooms. Capacity: 70 people. Web site: Location: strategically situated in the commercial and bank area of Río Gallegos city. Accommodation: 54 apartments. All apartments are supplied with: carpeting, bathroom with bath tub and shower, telephone with DDN/DDI, individual heating, cable TV, minibar, kitchenette, living-room. Facilities and services: sauna, laundry and dry cleaning service, safe box, parking, babysitter. Restaurant: 1 coffe shop. SOUTHERN PATAGONIA El Calafate Hotels Southern Patagonia Posada **** Los Alamos Address: Gobernador Moyano y Bustillo (Z9405CBC) El Calafate Telephone: (02902) /5 Fax: Kau Yatún **** Address: Estancia 25 de Mayo (9504) El Calafate Telephone: (02902) Fax: Web site: Built in: 1984 Location: 200 metres away from the commercial center of El Calafate Accommodation: 144 rooms: singles, doubles, triples and suites. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom with hair dryer, telephone with DDI/DDN, minibar, colour cable TV and safe box. All the suites are supplied with hydromassage. Facilities and services: 24 hour room service, business center, health club, gym, swimming pool, parking lot, medical assistance, laundry service, internet access, beauty salon and massage room, tenis and paddle courts, golf. Travel agency, gift shop with regional artcrafts, babysitter. TV room, library, playroom. Restaurant: La Posta : a barbecue restaurant that offers regional and international menu. Capacity: 230 people. El Aljibe bar: offers snack service in a cosy fire place. Meeting facilities: Rooms Auditorium Banquet La Posta El Aljibe /100 El Aguila 200 Web site: Built in: Location: 1 km away from the commercial center, at the foot of El Calafate Hill. Accommodation: 50 deluxe rooms supplied with carpeting, private bathroom with jacuzzi, telephone with national and international direct call, central music system, heating and TV. Facilities and services: laundry service, gift shop, room service, children games, shows, arcade, horseback riding, bilingual staff, golf. Restaurant: El Quincho : a typical food restaurant. Capacity: 60 people. La Brida Restaurant. Alambique Bar. Meeting facilities: 1 room with a maximum capacity of 50 people and another room for 60 people. 149

150 Hostería **** Los Notros Address: Lago Argentino, Península de Magallanes El Mirador *** del Lago Address: Av. Libertador 2047 (Z9405AIF) El Calafate Southern Patagonia Telephone: (02902) Reservation office in Bs As: Telephone: Fax: Web site: Built in: 1989 Location: 8 km from Perito Moreno Glacier, facing the south wall of the glacier. Accommodation: 32 double rooms: 12 waterfall, 8 superior and 12 premium. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom with bathtub and hair dryer, air conditioning and minibar. Some premium rooms are supplied with jacuzzi. Facilities and services: living room with VCR, specialized library, playroom, multilingual staff, transfers from/to El Calafate and the airport, games for children, all inclusive excursion packages, parking lot. Restaurant: restaurant/bar: offers French and typical patagonian menu. Capacity: 70 people. Meeting facilities: on request. It's convenient to reserve all the Hostel for private meetings. El Quijote *** Address: Gobernador Gregores 1191 (Z9405CDG) El Calafate Telephone: (02902) Fax: Telefax: (02902) / / Web site: Built in: Decoration is modified every year. Location: facing Lake Argentino, very close to the commercial district, a few minutes away from the airport. Accommodation: 20 rooms. 2 large suites looking Lake Argentino and Calafate Hill with double bed; 4 triple rooms; 12 double rooms; 2 single rooms. All rooms are supplied with: carpeting, bathroom with hair dryer, bath tub and amenities, telephone line with DDI/DDN, colour cable TV, individual safe box, central music and minibar. Facilities and services: 24 hour room service, central music, fax service, internet facilities, TV and VCR, leisure room, playroom, library, gift shop, 24 hour snack bar, sauna, Scotish shower, playground for children, newspapers, laundry service, babysitter, 24 hour medical assitance, massage service and hairdresser. Restaurant: El Hogar Restaurant : offers typical and international menus by a fire place overlooking the lake. Capacity: 120 people. Las Nubes snack bar: offers fast food and drinks. Capacity: 40 people. Meeting facilities: El Hogar Restaurant : divided in two floors: the ground floor with a maximum capacity of 70 seated people and the first floor with a balcony over the ground floor with a maximum capacity of 40 seated people. Michelangelo *** Address: Gobernador Moyano 1020 (Z9405CEH) El Calafate Telephone: (02902) Fax: Web site: Location: in the center of El Calafate. Accommodation: 80 rooms. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom, carpeting, telephone with DDI/DDNl, programmed music system, radio, heating, satellite TV and minibar. Facilities and services: emergency exits, parking lot, safe box, medical assistance, multilingual staff, valet service, 24 hs room service, fax service, satellite TV, excursions. Restaurant: El Molino : offers local gastronomy. Capacity: 100 people. Meeting facilities: 1 functional room. Capacity: 100 people. Kosten Aike **** Address: Gobernador Moyano 1243 (Z9405CEK) El Calafate Telephone: (02902) Fax: Web site: Built in: November, Location: in the heart of El Calafate, 200 meters away from Libertador Ave, a few meters away from Lake Argentino. Accommodation: 60 rooms: 58 standard rooms and 2 suites. Room for handicapped people All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom, heating, TV, minibar, safe box, telephone line and modem line, desk table. Facilities and services: playroom, living room with fire place, jacuzzi, massages, Scottish shower, drugstore, business center, gym and spa, garden, terrace, parking lot, gift shop, tourist information desk.. Restaurant: 1 restaurant and 1 bar. Meeting facilities: 1 meeting room. Capacity: 100 people. Built in: Remodelled in 1991 and Location: 200 meters from Del Libertador Avenue and El Calafate's commercial center. Accommodation: 18 double rooms and 1 suite. All rooms are supplied with: carpeting, private bathroom, telephone with DDI/DDN, heating, cable TV and frigobar. Facilities and services: laundry and dry cleaning service, room service, safe box, parking lot, bilingual staff. Restaurant: 1 international awarded restaurant and 1 bar. Meeting facilities: 1 room. Capacity: 100 people. Lar Aike ** Address: Av. Libertador 2681 (Z9405CEK) El Calafate Telephone: (02902) Fax: Built in: Enlarged and remodelled in Location: 1 km away from the commercial center, facing Lake Argentino. Accommodation: 24 standard rooms and 4 superior rooms. All rooms are supplied with: carpeting, pivate bathroom, telephone with national and international direct call, heating. Superior rooms are supplied with cable TV. Facilities and services: living room, parking lot, laundry service. Restaurant: one bar and half board service for groups. 150

151 Sierra Nevada *** Address: Av. Libertador 1888 (Z9405AIQ) El Calafate Telephone: (2902) Cerro Calafate *** Address: Villa Parque Los Glaciares (9405) El Calafate Telephone / fax: (02902) Web site: Built in: October Remodelled in Location: 500 mts from the commercial centre, in front of the Redonda Bay, by Lake Argentino. Accomodation: 16 double and triple rooms. All rooms are supplied with: carpeting, private bathroom with hair dryer, telephone line for national and international calls, individual heating, TV and modem connection facilities. Facilities and services: mail and fax service, internet, TV room, playroom, library, private garden, parking lot, laundry service, dry cleaning and gym with kinesiology service (on request). Restaurant: 1 restaurant. Offers fast food and special menus. Web site: Built in: 1992 Location: at Mt. El Calafate foothill Accomodation: 30 double and triple rooms and 2 apartments (4 and 5 beds) All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom with tube and hair dryer, telephone with national and international direct call, heating, cable TV, safe box. Facilities and services: internet connection, laundry service, parking lot, transfers to and from the commercial center. Restaurant: Copacho, a la carte and special menus. Capacity: 60 people. Meeting facilities: 1 room with audio system, internet and PC services. Capacity: 50 people. Kapenke *** Address: 9 de Julio 112 (Z9405AED) El Calafate Telephone/fax: (02902) / Frai Toluca *** Address: Perón 1016 (9405) El Calafate Telephone: (02902) Fax: (02092) Location: 400 mts from the commercial centre Accomodation: 18 double and triple rooms. All rooms supplied with: private bathroom, telephone with national an international direct call, heating, safe box. Facilities and services: bilingual staff, room service, library and cable TV room, parking lot, laundry service. Restaurant: Lobby Bar. Southern Patagonia Web site: Location: 100 meters away from Libertador Ave. Built in: inaugurated in Remodelled and enlarged between 2000 and Accommodation: 32 rooms: 27 doubles and 5 triples. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom with bath tub and hair dryer, telephone with DDI/DDN, cable TV, hot air-heating system and safe box. Facilities and services: parking lot, internet connection, laundry service, local transfer service. Restaurant: La Carmela : offers a la carte menu. Capacity: 70 people. Bahía Redonda *** Address: Calle 15 Nro. 148 (9405) El Calafate Telephone: (02902) Fax: El Chaltén - Santa Cruz La Aldea Apart Hotel Address: Av. Güemes s/n (9301) Telephone / fax: (02966) Built in: Remodelled in: 1996 six apartments, 1997 six apartments, 1998 cafeteria and restaurant Location: in the middle of the tourist village of "El Chaltén", with the unique scenery of Mt Fitz Roy. Accommodation: 12 duplex apartments with room on top floor equipped with: private bathroom, living room and mini kitchinette on the ground floor. Double or single beds. Facilities and services: laundry service and parking lot. Restaurant: Restaurant and cafeteria. Capacity: 40 people. Meeting facilities: reading and/or meeting room. Capacity: 20 people. Web site: Location: opossite Lake Argentino, a few meters away from the banks and the commercial center. Accommodation: 30 ample rooms with lake view. All rooms are supplied with: carpeting, private bathroom, telephone with DDN/DDI, heating. Double rooms also include hydromassage. Facilities and services: room service, DDN/DDI communications, fax, laundry service, 24 hs. hot water Restaurant: 1 restaurant: offers international menu. Capacity: 40 to 45 people. 1 bar La Casa de Piedra Address: Lago del desierto s/n (Z9301AF) El Chaltén Santa Cruz Telephone: (02962) Web site: Location: 200 metres away from the main corner of the village. Built in: Accommodation: 8 rooms: 3 quadruples, 3 triples, 2 doubles. Bungalows for 4 people. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom, individual controlled heating, Mt. Torres and Mt. Fitz Roy view rooms, table, desk and chairs. Facilities and services: parking, private garden, laundry and maid service. Restaurant: 1 bar-restaurant. 151

152 SOUTHERN PATAGONIA Ushuaia Hotels Las Hayas ***** Resort Address: Luis Martial 1650 (V9410 SPX) Ushuaia Los Ñires *** Address: Av.Los Ñires 3040 (9410) Ushuaia Telephone / fax: (02901) Web site: Built in: Southern Patagonia Telephone: (02901) Fax: Web site: Location: in a privileged area, surrounded by a beech tree woods at the foot of Martial Glacier and a few minutes from the city center Accommodation: 92 rooms including doubles superior, suites junior, deluxe suites and 1 presidential suite All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom with tub and hair dryer, telephone with DDN/DDI, heating, cable TV, safe box, magnetic lock and thermic windows. Facilities and services: elevators, fax, recreational activities: fishing, ski and horseback ridings, health club with gym, sauna, jacuzzi, heated swimming pool and squash court. Restaurants: Le Martial: offers international menu. El Drake: offers a cozy ambience. El Asador: offers local typical menu. Bar Británico. Meeting facilities: Room Banquets Auditorium School Milenio Verde Celeste Escocés Accommodation: 47 large rooms of the same category, built with lenga wood which have a rustic romantic style and overlook the Beagle Channel or the Andes. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom with hair dryer and amenities, telephone with DDI, heating, safe box, frigobar service and sommier beds. Facilities and services: free transfer service to the city center, room service, laundry and dry cleaning service, parking lot. Restaurant: Tío Alberto : offers breakfast, lunch, snack and dinner services overlooking the Beagle Channel. Different regional dishes are served as well as international food. Capacity: 60 people. Meeting facilities: small rooms can be setup for business meetings. Coffee break and cocktail services can be offered. Capacity: 225 people. Hostal del Bosque *** Apart Hotel Address: Magallanes 709 (V9410AMO) Ushuaia Telephone: (02901) /783/803 Web site: Del Glaciar **** Address: Av.Luis Fernando Martial 2355 (V9410FQK) Ushuaia Telephone: (02901) Fax: Location: in the southernmost city of the world, by the Beagle Channel, 400 meters from the center. Accommodation: 39 apartments with 2 rooms. All apartments are supplied with: private bathroom, telephone with DDI/DDN, cable TV, frigobar and kitchenette. Facilities and services: laundry service, security, concierge. Restaurant: 1 restaurant: offers typical and international food and the best Argentine and foreign wines. Web site: Location: 3 km from the city of Ushuaia, ascending the Martial Glacier. Accommodation: 124 twin, double, triple rooms and suites. All rooms are supplied with: carpeting, private bathroom with hair dryer, telephone with DDI/DDN, colour cable TV, frigobar and PC connection. Facilities and services: sauna, gym, 24 hs room service, safe box, laundry service, parking lot, internet access at reception, free transfer service, babysitter, drugstore. Restaurant: 1 bar and 1 restaurant. Meeting facilities: La Pataia room : used as a playroom. Capacity: 50 people. Eclaerius room : used for conventions and meetings. Capacity: 200 people. Thomas Bridges room : used for conventions and meetings. Capacity: 300 people. 152 Las Lengas *** Address: Goleta Florencia 1722 (V9410BKB) Ushuaia Telephone / fax: (02901) / 4599 Web page: Location: 600 metres away from the center, opposite the Beagle Channel. Accommodation: 46 rooms All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom, hair dryer, telephone, heating, colour cable TV, programmed music system. Facilities and services: room service, concierge service, parking, safe box. Restaurant: 1 restaurant. Offers special meals and 1 snack bar. Capacity: 130 people. Meeting facilities: 1 convention center. Capacity: 50 people.

153 Albatros *** Address: Av.Maipú 505 (V9410BJK) Ushuaia Telephone: (02901) Fax: Ushuaia **** Web site: Location: in the heart of the city of Ushuaia, opposite the Beagle Channel. Accommodation: 77 single and double rooms and 4 executive suites. All rooms are supplied with: carpeting, private bathroom, telephone with DDI/DDN, colour TV (on request) and minibar. Facilitites and services: free transfer to the Invernal Martial Center, sub manager on service, multilingual personnel, check-in/out express system, 24 hs room service, safe box, currency exchange service, parking lot, laundry and dry cleaning service, concierge service, babysitter, wheelchair. Restaurant: Calnan : offers an exquisite menu with patagonian specialties. Lewel bar Tolkeyen *** Hotel y Refugio Address: Del Tolkeyen 2145 (9410) Ushuaia Telephone: (02901) /6/7 Fax: (02901) Web site: Location: 3 km from the city center, on the way to Tierra del Fuego National Park. Accommodation: 34 single, double, triple, quadruple rooms and suites. All rooms are supplied with: private bathroom with hydromassage, telephone with DDI/DDN, colour TV, frigobar and music. Facilities and services: transfer to and from the city center, parking lot, fax service, 24 hs medical service. Restaurant: 1 restaurant and 1 tea house. Meeting facilities: Functional room. Capacity: 120 people. Enjoy with us the wonderful sight from the rooms to the Beagle Channel Address: Lasserre 933 (9410) Ushuaia Telephone / fax: (02901) / Built in: Permanent maintenance. Location: 1 km from the commercial area and Ushuaia's port, overlooking the Beagle Channel. Accommodation: 58 single, double, triple rooms and 5 suites. All rooms are supplied with: telephone, heating, TV, modem connection and hair dryer. Facilities and services: private parking lot, 24 hs room service, laundry service. Restaurant: Del Hotel Ushuaia. Capacity: 90 people approximately. Del Hotel Ushuaia cafeteria. Capacity: 40 people approximately. Southern Patagonia 153