South America wild women on top trip highlights Unsurpassed views of Cerro Torre and Cerro Fitz Roy Remote wilderness trek to enter the Southern patagonian Icefield Stunning Los Glaciares National Park 1:2 ratio of guides to participants Escorted by Wild Women On Top Coach welcome to World Expeditions Thank you for your interest in the Wild Women On Top Patagonian Icefield Extension. At World Expeditions we are passionate about our off the beaten track experiences as they provide our travellers with the thrill of coming face to face with untouched cultures as well as wilderness regions of great natural beauty. We are committed to ensuring that our unique itineraries are well researched, affordable and tailored for the enjoyment of small groups or individuals philosophies that have been at our core since 1975 when we began operating adventure holidays. Our itineraries will give you the very best travel experience, designed by people with incredible local knowledge who share our vision of authentic exchange and real exploration with a responsible tourism approach. We hope you will join us for a life changing experience!! Trip Duration 6 days Trip Code: WWQ Grade Challenging Activities Trekking, Non technical mountaineering including use of harness, crampons and ice axe, 4 days trekking, 7 10 hours/day, 3 days carrying full pack (up to 18kg) and Variable weather conditions Summary 6 day trip, 4 day trek, 2 nights lodge and 3 nights camping why travel with World Expeditions? Our Patagonian operators have vast experience operating in this wilderness region. All our leaders are Argentine trained official Mountain Guides (AAGM and hold first responder first aid qualifications). Their experience, knowledge and enthusiasm for Patagonia ensures that this trip across the Southern Ice Cap will be a great adventure. Safety is our number one priority and well trained staff combined with good equipment and communications equipment means that you will be in good hands. We provide much of the equipment required such as snow shoes, sledges, crampons and ice axe. Minimum ratio of participants to guides is 2:1 thus ensuring a safe and personal experience. 1 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Kate Harper 7/5/2016 1:05:24 PM
Chile Argentina El Chalten Calafate 2017 29 Nov - 04 Dec trip dates trip cost Joining El Calafate: $2640 All prices are per person options & supplements the trip The Southern Patagonian Ice Field represents the third biggest mass of ice in the world after the Antarctica and Greenland sheets. On our 4 day trek in Los Glaciares National Park, this expedition aims to to enter the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, and spend some time exploring this vast plateau. The trek climbs the Marconi Glacier to enter the Ice Field where many significant mountains will be seen along the way Mt Fitz Roy, Cerro Torre, Pier Giorgio, Pollone, and Cordon Mariano Moreno to name a few. This trip involves long trekking days carrying a full pack (up to 18kg). The rewards will be walking in the Southern Patagonian Ice cap a place where few people have walked before! We hope you can join us. wild women on top team benefits When you join a Wild Women On Top trip, you become part of an incredible team, and the success of your adventure will depend on the preparation that each team member puts in to building their fitness, mental tuffness and emotional tuffness! It is all about the T.E.A.M: Together Everyone Achieves More. Wild Women On Top Adventures are unique mind, body, spirit experiences, which support you in the wilderness and empower you to take on extraordinary challenges with a group of likeminded women. You will need to prepare for your adventure and we will show you how, every step of the way. BEFORE you book for a Wild Women On Top Trip, please note the following benefits & conditions: 1. To ensure you get trek fit for your adventure, you should Trek Train at least three times a week, alternating interval training and endurance training with cross training such as swimming and yoga. Your Coach will also suggest additional trip specific activities. Remote Members must follow training recommendations from the coach, using our online programs & in our book How to Prepare for World Class Treks by Di Westaway. Should you be training remotely, your Coach will require you to check in and report on your training each week in the months leading up to your trip. 2. To build team spirit & ensure you re really prepared, your Trip Coach may recommend additional team training activities and briefings as required. 3. So you have more fun with your team, you will be required to take part in a CHECK TREK to make sure your training and preparation is on track, and to learn more about trekking in wilderness environments, your gear etc. This will give you a mini goal to aim for in the lead up to your trip and ensure that you are fabulously prepared for your adventure with great tips and feedback. Your Coach will advise a deadline by which you need to have satisfactorily completed one of our Check Treks or completed a remote assessment signed off by the Trip Coach. If you cannot complete the Check Trek or any supplementary Trek Checks assigned by your Coach to a satisfactory level, you will not be eligible for the trip and will be subject to the costs incurred according to World Expeditions cancellation policy. 4. So that we all have a great adventure, please support the Wild Women On Top Golden Rules (see www.wildwomenontop.com) and take responsibility for providing feedback before and during your adventure. This is your chance to make sure you don t miss out on any happy hormones so don t hold back! Make the most of it. 5. Some Wild Women On Top trips are accompanied by a Wild Women On Top Coach who supports & unites the group with empowering passion, guidance & tips in wilderness challenges and shares Wild Women On Top Traditions & culture. However the Coach is NOT the guide, navigator or first aider. The Local Guides and staff provided through World Expeditions are responsible for delivering all on the ground aspects of the trek. 2 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Kate Harper 7/5/2016 1:05:24 PM
6. In some extreme environments, including at high altitude, your Coach may not be in a position to support you if they are unwell, so it s important to seek assistance from the World Expeditions guides who are leading and managing the trip on the ground. 7. You must commit to the World Expeditions payment schedule. 8. Expect the unexpected. We provide wilderness experiences, and **** sometimes happens. Remember, Magic happens when you step outside your comfort zone. We reserve the right to change these Team Benefits at any time. Wild Women On Top reserves the right to amend these requirements at any time WWW.WILDWOMENONTOP.COM at a glance DAY 1 DAY 2 DAY 3 DAY 4 DAY 5 DAY 6 TRANSFER TO EL CHALTEN AND PREPARE FOR EXPEDITION CHALTEN - PIEDRA DEL FRAILE MARCONI GLACIER MARCONI PASS SOUTHERN PATAGONIAN ICE FIELD RETURN TO EL CHALTEN RETURN TO EL CALAFATE, WHERE TRIP CONCLUDES what s included 5 breakfasts, 4 lunches (includes box lunches) and 5 dinners Expert UIAGM/AAGM certified mountain guide Assistant guides (number dependent upon group size) from days 2 5 Basic lodge accommodation in El Chalten Group camping equipment (excluding sleeping bags and mats) Group mountain equipment (ropes, harnesses, carabiners, maps, compass, crampons and technical equipment) Public tourist bus El Calafate/El Chalten return Park entrance fees Group medical kit GPS and radio communication with base in El Chalten Trip escorted by Wild Women On Top Coach Local cash payments are becoming increasingly popular with many operators in the adventure travel industry. The policy seems to benefit the tour operators, more than the local economies or travellers, as it avoids local taxes and transfers the cost and risk of cash handling to travellers. In accordance with our Responsible Travel practices we have chosen a policy not to ask for such payments. detailed itinerary DAY 1 Transfer to El Chalten and prepare for expedition This morning we will take the public tourist bus across the Patagonian pampa to El Chaltén, a small mountain village situated at 450m above sea level. Chalten is the main entry point into Los Glaciares National Park, and is the base camp for numerous climbing expeditions to Cerro Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre as well as expeditions to the Patagonian ice field. Once in El Chalten, our guide will explain the adventures that await us in the days ahead, and instructions on how to use the camping and technical gear. Overnight Hotel El Paraiso (or similar) meals: D DAY 2 Chalten - Piedra del Fraile The day begins with a private transfer to the bridge over Eléctrico River, 15 Km northwest of El Chalten, and the start point of our trek towards the base of Marconi Glacier. We will walk the first 3 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Kate Harper 7/5/2016 1:05:24 PM
fast facts Countries Visited: Argentina Visas: No Vaccinations: Please consult a travel vaccination specialist for up to date information Private Groups: Private group options are available for this trip* Singles: A single supplement is not available for this trip Leader: Expert local leader Brochure Reference: The Americas responsible travel The environments we travel through are fragile. It is our responsibility as visitors to minimise the impact of our presence. World Expeditions were the proud recipients of the inaugural Australian National Travel Industry s Environmental Achievement award for our Responsible Travel Guidebook. This detailed guide to responsible and sustainable travel is provided to all World Expeditions clients before they travel. Please ask your consultant if you have not received your copy of our award winning book. Alternatively, you may like to download a copy from our website www.worldexpeditions.com two hours on a well-marked path, through a forest of Lengas and Ñires, alongside Eléctrico River. At the end of the vegetation, we stop few minutes in Piedra Del Fraile campsite (Refugio Los Troncos property of Estancia Ricanor), last encounter with civilization before our return to El Chaltén, at the end of the expedition. We will then enter into a great glacier valley surrounded by Treinta Aniversario, Marconi South, and North Peaks. From Piedra Del Fraile, we will follow the southern shore of Lake Eléctrico, crossing moraines and rocky formations left by the glaciers less than 70 years ago. Along the way, we will cross Pollone River walking, from where we will be able to observe the North-west face of Fitz Roy. One more hour of trekking will bring us to the western shore of Lake Eléctrico. We will set-up our camp there, only 20 minutes away from Marconi Glacier. After a well-earned rest, we might have some extra energy to explore the area. Walking distance: 12 Km. (5/6 hours). Elevation gain: 100 m DAY 3 Marconi Glacier Marconi Pass We will wake up early: breakfast, breaking of camp, and trekking Only 30 minutes of walking will bring us in front of the Marconi Glacier. A gigantic scree moraine is our first obstacle; the terrain here is unstable and moves constantly, impeding the formation of a marked path. After this short but difficult stretch, we will climb on the glacier itself entering slowly in a kingdom of snow and ice. This day might be the toughest of the expedition. We will climb 2400 ft (800 m) on ice and snow, using crampons, and round crevasses with the assistance of the guide and his team with the aid of ropes if necessary. Marconi Glacier forms a pass that creates a bottle effect with the winds coming from the Southern Patagonian Ice Field and the Pacific Ocean. Hence, participants will need to be not only physically, but also mentally prepared to trek in a rain or snowstorm. At the end of the day, we will arrive at our second campsite, in the shadow of Marconi South Mt and only an hour away from the Southern Patagonian Ice Field itself. Marconi pass: 1500 above sea level Mountain Hut: 1650 above sea level Walking distance: 10 Km. (8/9 hours) Elevation gain: 950 m DAY 4 Southern Patagonian Ice Field A full day spent in the vicinity of the Gorra Blanca Hut, walking on this enormous expanse of Ice. The hut is located on a Nunatak, (a rocky outcrop) and offers incredible views. This is a day not to forget to wander around this Antarctic-like landscape. We will return to our camp to rest. DAY 5 Return to El Chalten Descent following the same route on Marconi Glacier toward Piedra del Fraile and the Electrico Valley. It is quite a contrast to walk in the forest the same day after spending some time only seeing rock, snow and ice. Transfer to El Chalten from Rio Electrico Bridge. 9 hours walking. Overnight Hotel El Paraiso (or similar) DAY 6 Return to El Calafate, where trip concludes This morning we will take the public tourist bus back to El Calafate, where your trip arrangements conclude. We do not recommend leaving El Calafate until after 4pm, just in case there are any delays. meals: B 4 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Kate Harper 7/5/2016 1:05:24 PM
trip grading Challenging We expect all participants on this expedition to have a high level of fitness. Prior mountaineering experience is not essential. Although there is no altitude on this short but challenging trip, it is still tough, with variable weather conditions, we offer with long arduous days in difficult conditions, carrying heavy packs for up to 10 hours a day. adventure travel By its very nature adventure travel involves an element of the unexpected. In remote and developing countries do not expect standards you are used to at home. Remote areas are sometimes unpredictable and itineraries may be altered. To get the most out of your adventure it is important that you are flexible, positive and eager to take on all the challenges that arise. If you are uncertain about your suitability for this trip we recommend that you speak with your consultant or travel agent. important note These trip notes represent the most current information for this itinerary, and may supersede any information in the current brochure, including but not limited to the itinerary and price. The itinerary should be seen as a guide only. This itinerary may change at any time due to inclement weather, forces of nature and other circumstances beyond our control. This itinerary is subject to change with any change in Community regulations as well as Governmental changes and natural circumstances beyond our control. am i suitable for this trip? A Challenging trip is more difficult than any other program we offer. Each of these expeditions has an ambitious objective or goal that necessitates cooperation, contribution and a positive spirit from every member for it to be successful and ultimately rewarding and enjoyable for all. Being personally very fit and healthy will allow you to cope with the rigours of the trip through all conditions right through to the finish, and being mentally ready to embrace the variety of experiences involved is equally important. We strongly encourage intending participants to talk and meet with us directly as early as possible to discuss your ideas and ensure you have chosen the right trip for your level of experience and fitness. physical fitness For a challenging program physical fitness should be an ongoing thing, which should start from a base at around 4 to 6 months prior to departure and increase to build maximum endurance, stamina, flexibility and familiarity with the anticipated routine as much as possible by your trip commencement. Three to five hard sessions of 40 to 60 minutes of physical exercise per week such as running, hill walking, swimming, cycling or gym work will build excellent aerobic capacity and overall endurance and stamina which are so important in trekking and climbing at altitude. Overnight or multi day bushwalks ( on rough, loose and rocky terrain) should be incorporated in your training regime also, this develops skill and confidence on difficult terrain you will find on expedition. Rest and recovery, whilst at the same time steadily increasing your routine and incorporating variety, are just as important parts of the process if you intend to maintain and enjoy the regime for any duration. (We hope that it will become a lifetime thing.) With a solid training regime comes a more relaxed disposition, more energy and usually better walking and breathing technique, which ultimately leads to you having a great trip rather than some kind of survival experience. Likewise overnight camping bushwalks encourage you to become self actualised and self reliant, making the daily routine on trek, getting ready on time, keeping clean, helping out and so on, much easier and less stressful. Plan early with us and prepare yourself physically on a continuing basis right the way through, rather than putting it off for periods. country information Argentina has a population of over 30 million and an area of 2,807,500 square kms. It is the second largest country in South America after Brazil. Its diverse geography ranges from tropical jungle in the north to the polar ice caps in the south. One needs to travel great distances between tourist regions in Argentina, and this factor makes this an expensive destination. The cost of living in Argentina is also the highest by far of any Latin American country, and is on a par with many European countries. The capital, Buenos Aires is famed for its restaurants, shops and boulevards, and has a population of more than 10 million. There are many very good restaurants (including a few vegetarian restaurants which is surprising for a country of such devoted meat eaters!). All tend to have good food and good service including the smallest ones, but some are expensive so always check the menu before ordering. Wines are very good and come mainly from the Mendoza region. This Trip spends time in El Calafate, which lies on the edge of Lago Argentino. climate Patagonia s southern coastal position leaves it exposed to the intense winds that circle the Antarctic land mass. As such, the climate of Patagonia is unpredictable and it is necessary to be well prepared with good quality clothing. The summer season spanning November to March, experiences day time temperatures of between 8 20 degrees Celsius and in the evenings the temperature can easily reach zero. By Andean standards, the Patagonian 5 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Kate Harper 7/5/2016 1:05:24 PM
Mountains are low in altitude, but they capture virtually all the south west air borne moisture cladding their summits with snow, and leaving the leeward side, the Patagonian plains, in a severe rain shadow. This makes for some very interesting contrasts in the landscapes. a typical day This is an expedition in the truest sense, where you are a member of the team. Your guide will be joined by assistant guides and they will handle the majority of the catering. But due to the wilderness factor, one has to be flexible and happy to assist when requested. You will be responsible for gathering water for drinking and meals, assisting with food preparation and expected to clean your own eating utensils, as well as erect and take down your tent. Food will be as varied as much as possible but bearing in mind that we have to be largely self sufficient, you should not expect much fresh food. You are expected to be able to carry your personal gear and a share of the food and camping equipment (15 18kg). The daily routine will be dependent on the weather. Most mornings we will rise by 6am and following breakfast, we plan to be on the trail around 7am, sometimes earlier. Lunch will be carried each day by individual group members and will be taken enroute. The sun sets late during summer in Patagonia, and the resulting long days allow us to make the best use of daylight on some long trekking days. dietary requirements Provided we are advised in advance of your departure we are able to cater for vegetarian diets and can assist with medically recommended diets (allergies and intolerances). Please ensure you discuss your requirements with us well in advance (at least 1 month prior to your trip) to determine whether we can cater to such dietary requirements on your chosen adventure. Please note that options are likely to be limited in very remote locations or alternatives may be more expensive or unavailable. There may be times when those with special requirements may need to provide their own food. We are unable to guarantee a peanut free or allergen free trip, and therefore, we strongly encourage that travellers with life threatening or severe allergies take all necessary medical precautions to prepare for the possibility of exposure. Passengers must travel with all necessary medications for food allergies and be capable of self administering these medications. what you carry During this expedition you are expected to carry all of your personal equipment plus a share of the group equipment. You should be prepared to carry 15 18kg for long distances in difficult conditions. Personal porters are available for an additional cost (maximum weight 15kg). equipment required A comprehensive gear list is provided in the pre departure information supplied on booking. what s not included International flights, airport taxes and airport transfers All personal expenses Meals not indicated in the itinerary Travel Insurance and visas Sleeping bag, sleeping mat and personal gear Mountaineering boots, note these can be hired locally if needed, ask us for details. private groups Wild Women On Top Golden Rules 1. Set challenging adventure goals, write them down, train hard and you will achieve them [No 6 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Kate Harper 7/5/2016 1:05:24 PM
excuses!] 2. Stay Positive at all times 3. T.E.A.M. Together Everyone Achieves More 4. Expect the unexpected 5. If you have a gripe, handle it discretely, or air it politely [Don t let it fester!] 6. Buy quality gear [This will save you money and could save your life] 7. Don t come home from training or trips tired. Be energized & happy. 8. Leave no trace (The wilderness is sacred!) 9. Bring MORE than you take away. [Including chocolate!] 10. Happy endings guarantee the next leave pass! [this one is secret!] subscribe to our e-newsletter To keep up to date with our new and exciting adventure opportunities, special promotions and adventure news, subscribe to our monthly e newsletter! You can do this on line through our website, www.worldexpeditions.com or contact our office. social networking Follow us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/worldexpeditions how to book To book a Wild Women On Top trip, you will need to complete a booking form and pay a non refundable deposit which you can do by using our online booking function, details of which will be provided at the time of the trip launch with Wild Women On Top. We can also help you with any additional arrangements that you require, such as competitive airfares to get you to your destination, stopovers, pre or post trip accommodation or any additional tours that you wish to take in conjunction with the main trip. Important: You must be a financial member of Wild Women On Top to join this tour. Please go to WWW.WILDWOMENONTOP.COM, ring 0434 027 912 or email admin@wildwomenontop.com for more details on training and memberships. 7 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Kate Harper 7/5/2016 1:05:24 PM