Welcome to OUT Adventures
Gay owned OUT Adventures and Intrepid Travel have partnered together to provide a comfortable travel environment for not only for gay and lesbian travellers,
but also their friends and family who want to experience the world at the grassroots level with like-minded people. Go on, Get OUT and experience the real world.
Become an adventurer in the spectacular wilds of Patagonia - one of the most remote wildernesses in the world. From the tango bars and heaving streets of Buenos Aires, head to the striking mountain scenery, vast open plains, dramatic icefields and advancing glaciers of Patagonia. Trek to the spectacular Laguna Torre and the iconic Torres del Paine, hike glaciers and visit the quirky towns at the end of the world.
Latin America is an area which may be very different to anything you may have experienced before. Although this means it is sometimes not the easiest place to travel, this is also what makes it so special. Travel in the area should be seen as an exciting new challenge. During our time here we have come to love this large and wonderfully different area but we know that we should always expect to encounter some difficulties along the way. If you are able to travel with a lot of patience and a huge sense of humor, then we know that you - like all of us - will be captivated by what Latin America has to offer.
Style
Trip Map
Itinerary
Culture Shock Rating
Physical Rating
Gay Rating
Physical Preparation
Included Activities
Optional Activities
Spending Money
Tipping
Important Notes
Group Size
Accommodation
Adrenaline is the only thing you'll need to pack for these trips. As you'd expect, activity is key. But we're not jumping off cliffs or paragliding - hey, that's entirely your choice. You will, however, be exploring new worlds by bike, kayak and foot. Active Adventures are the ideal way to travel if you want plenty of cultural interaction while firming those gluts of steel.
Bienvenidos a Argentina! Welcome to Argentina!
Please ensure you download and review the latest trip notes prior to your trip as we make improvements and changes to our itineraries. This will ensure you have the most up to date information about your trip.
If you arrive to Buenos Aires before day 1, there are plenty of galleries, museums and historic buildings to keep you entertained. On the east side of the Plaza de Mayo you will find the Casa Rosada, the pink presidential palace where Eva Peron appeared on the balcony in front of adoring fans in the 1940s. There is also a Museo Evita, dedicated to the life (and gowns) of this famed figure. MALBA is an incredible art gallery showcasing a private collection, including works by Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera, and great temporary exhibits.
Buenos Aires must be the ultimate cosmopolitan city. With Latin passion, European elegance and a distinctive style, this is a city that will steal your heart. The Portenos (the local residents) are justifiably proud of their city which is comprised of distinct 'barrios' (neighbourhoods), each with their own style. Visit San Telmo for its weekend antiques market and artists' displays. La Boca was settled by waves of immigrants that built brightly painted buildings. It is also home to the world-class football team Boca Juniors and murals of famous footballers cover the district's walls. Recoleta is the place to browse museums with Buenos Aires' well-to-do.
When you have finished exploring, settle down at one of the many streetside cafes and prepare yourself for a night of tango at one of the many milongas.
Please arrive to the hotel on day 1 by 2.00pm , in time for the first group meeting. We will be collecting your insurance details and next of kin information at this meeting so please ensure you have all details on hand to provide to your leader. Your group leader will leave a note at reception telling you where this important meeting will take place. Please ask a member of reception for this information. If you are going to be late please inform the hotel reception. Your leader will leave details for your arrival on where and when to meet.
In the afternoon your tour leader will take for an approximately 2 hour walking tour around some of Buenos Aires main attractions.
In the evening you have the option of going out for a group dinner.
On day 2 you fly (approx. 1.5 hrs) south from Buenos Aires to El Calafate, our gateway to the Glacier National Park.
You will have a free afternoon to wonder around town and get prepared for the next 2 days. There are no ATM's available from the morning of day 3 until you return to Calafate in the evening of day 5, so please make sure you have enough funds for the coming 2 days. Your group leader will be able to give you an indication of the amount needed.
On day 3 we travel by minivan (approx. 2.5 hrs) and after a spectacular drive, you have free time to enjoy the amazing scenery of Perito Moreno Glacier. This is one of the few advancing glaciers in the world and at 3 km (1.8 miles) wide and 35 km (21 miles) long is a spectacular sight. Watch and listen to the crack of the ice as it plunges into the waters below.
Late in the afternoon, you take a local bus (Approx. 5 hrs) to El Chalten.
While today is a very exciting day, prepare yourself to cover big distances on poorly maintained roads. You will travel 160 Km to and from Perito Moreno Glaciar and then an extra 220 Km on to El Chalten. It's all worth it, but be prepared for a long day.
The long distances travelled yesterday pay off today, on day 4 as you wake up in the lovely town of El Chalten located in the north of Parque National Los Glaciers, ready to take on some incredible hikes. Hikers and climbers from all around the world congregate here and the atmosphere is laid back and very outdoors-oriented.
Today's hike takes us to Laguna de Los Tres to see the magnificent peaks of Cerro Fitzroy. We return to our hostal to spend the night.
On day 5 we hike to Laguna Torre for inspiring views of the Cerro Torres.
The hikes in Glacier National Park are moderate - with a few challenging sections - on clearly marked and well maintained trails. The hikes may change depending on weather conditions.
Once we come back from the hike, late in the afternoon, we travel back to El Calafate (Approx. 5 hrs)
Be ready for another long long travel day. Early in the morning of day 6 we jump in a local bus to Puerto Natales (5 1/2 hours) where we change to another local bus (Approx. 3 hrs) to Torres del Paine, before taking one final 30 minute bus ride to our campsite. Depending on how busy the border crossing is, you may or may not have time to have lunch in Puerto Natales. Please make sure you have enough water and snacks in case you have to rush through from one bus to the other.
This campsite will be home for the next three nights and we will use it as a base while we take on day hikes around the park. While we hike, all your belongings will be left at the campsite, inside your tent. We can not be made responsible for anything that may go missing from your tent, however the campsite dedicates one person to look after the site and our belongings and we have never had anything missing from our tents so far.
2 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 3 dinners will be provided while camping. Dinners are simple (pastas, rice, chicken) and are served in a common dinning area. Lunches consist of sandwiches, fruit and sometimes a chocolate bar. Soft and alcoholic drinks are not provided and there is limited selection for you to buy from at the Camping's general store. If you particularly like certain snacks (almonds, nuts, raisins) or a drink (a bottle of wine, spirit) please make sure you bring it from Buenos Aires or Calafate.
Bathroom facilities are available in the campsite with communal showers and bathroom separated by sex.
You and a fellow traveller will share a tent for the next 3 nights and will be required to set it up (under Tour Leader's guidance) upon arrival, dismantle and clean it on last day. Sleeping bags are not provided on this trip so please bring your own. Alternatively you can hire it locally for approximately USD 5 a day. Make sure you tell your leader on day 1 of the trip if you intend to hire it locally for him/her to make the necessary arrangements. Please note we can not guarantee sleeping bags will be available. A foam camping mattress is provided on this trip but, feel free to bring along your own, should you prefer a more comfortable one (thermarest/inflatable)
Sitting at the end of the earth is the awe inspiring Chilean Patagonia. Few people have the opportunity to see this area and those who do find it difficult to forget. Once a sheep estancia, the park was established in 1959. This is magnificent trekking country where nandues, condors and pink flamingos abound. Upon arriving in the park you will most likely be greeted by a herd of guanacos, relatives of alpacas. These strange animals provide great photo opportunities but don't get too close; they're likely to spit at you. There's also some of the world's best trout and salmon fishing.
The real star of the show, however, is the magnificent landscape. With sparkling lakes, gushing waterfalls, glaciers and striking mountains, much of our time trekking is spent slack-jawed in awe of our surrounds.
The treks are moderate to difficult along clearly marked trails and we will usually hike between 5-8 hours per day. Weather in Patagonia is an important factor to consider - be prepared for cold, wet and sometimes times windy weather.
During our time hiking, on clear days, there will be breathtaking views of the Towers of Paine, the park's most famous sight. The Towers can make a sudden appearance on the windswept plains.
On day 9 we travel by bus from Torres del Paine to Puerto Natales. Please note that tonight your group may split to 2 or more different hotels which are within 10 minutes walking distance from each other. Your Tour Leader will make the necessary arrangements on the ground and will do all possible to keep couples and passengers traveling together in the same hotel.
On the morning of day 10, we take a local bus (3 hours approximately) to Punta Arenas and have the rest of the afternoon free to take on some of the optional activities.
Set among windswept plains and looking across the Straits of Magellan to Porvenir and Tierra del Fuego, Punta Arenas feels close to the end of the world. In reality it's not that far away. This is Chile's southernmost city and it has plenty of interesting history. Over the years it has attracted explorers, ranchers and even fortune-seekers, as it was was once an important stop along the Californian gold rush route. In recent years it has become a base for the Chilean Navy and with oil and gas discovered offshore and the growth in adventure tourism, the city is going from strength to strength.
It's well worth visiting the hill-side cemetery to see the crypts of the city's leading citizens, and don't miss the chance to sample the seafood, some of the finest in the country.
Did I mention we have some travel days on this trip? On day 11 we hit the road for one last (but not least) journey. A whopping 12 hours bus ride takes us back to Argentina and to the southernmost city in the world, Ushuaia. Needless to say you will need to arm yourself with your favourite book, your MP3 player, drinks and snacks.
This is the gateway to Parque Nacional Tierra del Fuego, Argentina's only coastal park. We cruise the Beagle Channel (named after Charles Darwin's expedition ship) and observe marine wildlife along the park's small islands and inlets. We have some time to visit Ushuaia's museums before returning to Buenos Aires.
On day 12 you will take an included boat morning trip on the Beagle Channel.
The afternoon of day 12 and day 13 are free for you to explore Ushuaia.
Please note in Ushuaia you will stay in B&Bs (Bed & Breakfast) This kind of accommodation offers a unique local charm and interaction that are difficult to experience in a regular hotel. However, due to their limited capacity, please note that your group may be split into 2 or more different properties.
On day 14 you return to Buenos Aires for a final night out. Please note that while you are intended to return to Buenos Aires in the early hours of the afternoon, airline schedules in Argentina are known for changing without much notice, meaning that you can potentially arrive in Buenos Aires as late as 11 PM on day 14.
As there are no activities planned, you are free to depart at any time on day 15.
The itinerary attached is correct at time of printing. Please note: occasionally our itineraries are updated during the year to incorporate improvements stemming from past travelers' comments and our own research. Our brochure is usually released in November each year. As such the information given in this itinerary may be slightly different to that in the brochure. It is VERY IMPORTANT that you print and review a final copy of your Trip Notes a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans. For the latest updated Trip Notes please visit our website: www.out-adventures.com
Expect to rough it every now and again, whether it's very simple group-share accommodation at a homestay, a packed public bus where you are forced to stand, the odd cold shower or an encounter with a squat toilet.
Be prepared for some serious physical activity. This may be treks of up to 6 hours per day in steep terrain, or extended bike rides of more than one day. The fitter you are, the more you will enjoy your holiday.
This trip travels to a relatively conservative area. We encourage you to experience the destination and culture with the following in mind:
Accommodation - We do not foresee any problems, however there may be occasions when a same sex couple may be asked to sleep in single beds rather than sharing a double. We appreciate your cooperation.
Public Display of affection - These are frowned upon in this region among all travellers, not just those on an OUT Adventure. This includes holding hands in public.
Gay Activities - This trip may not have specific gay hosted events, meals or day tours due to the cultural sensitivity of this region. We will do our best to provide a safe, comfortable environment for you and your fellow travellers to experience this culture.
Please read the important notes & local dress section of the Trip Notes for more detailed information
For the trek on this trip the general rule is the more preparation you have done for it, the more you will enjoy it. We recommend that you undertake regular aerobic exercise in the weeks before you travel, particularly if you are not in the habit of regular exercise. Walking, jogging, swimming or riding a bike are all good ways to increase your aerobic fitness, which will allow you to enjoy the trek to its fullest.
This is a list of included activities on this trip. All other activities are optional and at your own expense.
For a list of optional activities and sightseeing available on this trip, see the optional activities section below.
If you choose not to participate in the included activities on this itinerary, the cost will not be refunded.
Orientation walk in Buenos Aires led by your group leader
Flight from Buenos Aires to Calafate
Perito Moreno Glacier
Day hikes in Glacier National Park
3 nights camping
2 days hiking excursion to Torres del Paine National Park (all camping gear included except sleeping bag)
Beagle Channel Cruise
Flight from Ushuaia to Buenos Aires
All optional activities are entirely your choice and are not included in price of this trip. The following is not an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only.
Buenos Aires:
Coastal train $10
Teatro Colón $5
City Tour: $10
Tango Show: from $40
Tigre: $40
El Calafate:
Mountain bike rental $4/hour
Horseback riding $15-$20
Cruise Moreno Glacier $7 (45 mins)
Punta Arenas:
Seno Otway $15-20
Tour Fuerte Bulnes $6
Museum entrance $2
Ushuaia:
Horseback riding $65
Ski lift $5 (return)
Entrance museum $5
Bus to National Park entrance $10 (return)
Every traveler is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travelers may drink more than others while other travelers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping, participating in optional activities and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.
Central/South America Tipping recommendations are as follows:
If you are happy with the services provided a tip - though not compulsory - is appropriate. While it may not be customary to you, it is of great significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels, inspires excellent service, and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many OUT Adventures destinations. Please note we recommend that any tips are given directly to the intended recipient by a member of your group as our group leaders are prohibited from collecting cash for tips.
The following amounts are based on local considerations and feedback from our past travellers:
Restaurants: Tipping is not expected in local markets and basic restaurants. However if you wish to tip, round your bill up to the nearest 5%. More up-market restaurants we suggest up to 10%-12% of your bill. Some restaurants already include tipping on the final amount, which should be shown on the bill as: propina, servicio o cubiertos.
Local guides: Throughout your trip you may at times have a local guide in addition to your leader. We suggest USD 2 per person per day for local guides.
Porters (If applicable): While on the Inca Trail, we suggest PEN 80-120 for all porters, assistants and cook.
Drivers: You may have a range of drivers on your trip. Some may be with you for a short journey while others may be with you for several days. We would suggest a higher tip for those more involved with the group however a base of USD 1-2 per day is generally appropriate.
Luggage loaders (Argentinean bus stations): it is common in Argentina to tip $1 Peso for someone to load your bag onto a bus.
Your Group Leader: You may also consider tipping your leader for outstanding service throughout your trip. The amount is entirely a personal preference; however as a guideline USD 2-4 per person, per day can be used. Of course you are free to tip more or less as you see fit, depending on your perception of service quality and the length of your trip. Remember, a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.
Please note this OUT trip is operated by our experienced local partners.
Please note that, in order to make the most of our time in Patagonia, this trip includes 3 particularly long travel days (day 3, 6 and 11) Please refer to trip notes for specific travel times.
Domestic airlines allow a maximum of 20kg check in luggage and 5kg hand luggage. Any excess luggage expense will be your own responsibility.
Maximum of 12 travellers per group
Basic hotels (8 nts), B&B (3 nts), camping (3 nts)
While travelling with us you will experience the vast array of wonderful food available in the world. Your group leader will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. On our camping trips we often cook the region's specialties so you don't miss out. To give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat generally not all meals are included in the trip price. This also gives you more budgeting flexibility. As a rule our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Please check the 'meal inclusions' section of these notes for details of meals included.
Allow USD $350 for meals not included.
8 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 3 Dinners
Plane, local bus, boat, walking
All OUT group trips are accompanied by one of our gay or gay friendly group leaders. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. We endeavor to provide the services of an experienced leader however, due to the seasonality of travel, rare situations may arise where your leader is new to a particular region or training other group leaders.
Your leader will provide information on the places you are traveling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the places visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. OUT leaders aim to support local guides who have specialized knowledge of the regions we visit - and who better to hear it from than the locals themselves? If you were interested in delving deeper into the local culture at a specific site or location then your leader can recommend a local guide service in most of the main destinations of your trip.
If you are happy with the level of service provided by your group leader, we recommend that you reward them with a $2 to $4 USD tip per day.
Hotel Viasui
Viamonte 960
Buenos Aires
Argentina
Phone: +54 011 525 23070
Fax: +54 011 525 23070
There are 2 airports in Buenos Aires: international (Ezeiza) and domestic (Aeroparque).
Ezeiza is 35km north from the city. Manuel Tienda Leon, located on your right hand side as you exit the luggage collection area, runs an efficient bus service for around US$15. You will need to change buses at their head office in downtown, before reaching your hotel.
Alternatively you can catch a taxi from the airport (arranged by the same Manuel Tienda Leon) for about US$40.
Aeroparque is located just outside the city centre and a taxi ride to your hotel will cost you around US$15.
The hotel is located only a few steps from 9 de Julio Avenue. It is metres from the Obelisco, the city's most important monument, and offers fast access to the financial district and main tourist attractions. Buffet breakfast is included. WiFi access is available.
We don't expect any problems (and nor should you!) but if for any reason you are unable to commence your group trip as scheduled, please contact your starting point hotel, requesting that you speak to or leave a message for your trip leader.
If you have pre-booked an airport transfer (where available) and have not made contact with our representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs and immigration, we recommend that you make your own way to the Starting Point hotel, following the Joining Instructions in the Trip Notes. Should this occur, please apply to your travel agent for a refund of the transfer cost on your return.
No refund is available on missed transfers or portions of your trip owing to a different flight arrival or delayed flight arrival. Any additional cost incurred in order to meet up with your group is at your own expense.
Hotel Viasui
Viamonte 960
Buenos Aires
Argentina
Phone: +54 011 525 23070
Fax: +54 011 525 23070
The hotel is located only a few steps from 9 de Julio Avenue. It is metres from the Obelisco, the city's most important monument, and offers fast access to the financial district and main tourist attractions. Buffet breakfast is included. WiFi access is available.
In the case of a genuine crisis or emergency, Intrepid's Melbourne Office can be reached on Tel: +61 3 9473 2650. For further contact details please use the following page: http://www.intrepidtravel.com/ourtrips/contact/.
Please also make sure you have access to an additional USD$400, to be used when unforeseen incidents or circumstances outside our control (eg. a natural disaster, civil unrest or an outbreak of bird flu) necessitate a change to our planned route.
Please note that visas are the responsibility of the individual traveler. The visa requirements for your trip vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. We keep the following information up to date as much as possible, but rules do change.
It is important that you check for yourself.
Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months after your return date. The visa requirements for your trip may vary depending on where you are travelling from and where you are going (ie in which order you are visiting countries).
Argentina: The Argentine government has recently introduced a reciprocity tax which applies to Canadian, US and Australian citizens. The amounts are as follows:
Australians - US$100 (single entry)
Canadians - US$70 (single entry)
Americans - US$131 (multiple entry - valid for 10 years)
This tax is payable in US$ or the ARS (Peso) equivalent. The tax is payable on arrival at Ezeiza International Airport and may also be payable at other borders.
Laundry facilities are available in most cities we visit. It's normally charged per kilo (around $3 per kilo). There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap.
What you need to bring will vary according to the trip style you have chosen, the countries you are visiting and when you are travelling. Generally speaking you should pack as lightly as possible. On the vast majority of our trips you are expected to carry your own luggage and although you will not be required to walk long distances with your luggage (max 30 minutes) we recommend keeping the weight under 10kg/22lb.
Most travellers carry their luggage in a backpack, although an overnight bag with a shoulder strap would suffice if you travel lightly. Smaller bags or backpacks with wheels are convenient although we recommend your bag has carry straps. You will also need a day pack/bag to carry water and a camera etc for daytrips.
The sale of bottled water contributes to an enormous environmental problem around the world. In addition to the water in bottles, the production of a 1 litre plastic bottle takes 2 litres of water and 200ml of oil. A large proportion end up in limited landfill or discarded in waterways and natural environments. Please avoid the purchase of bottled water by bringing and using a water purification method. Some of the options are:
~ Water purification tablets available from camping stores or pharmacies eg. Micropur.
~ 2% tincture of iodine available from pharmacies - used at 4 drops per litre of water and left for at least 20 minutes. Longer in very cold weather.
In countries like Argentina, Uruguay, Brazil and the Patagonia region of Chile, tap water is treated and safe to drink so please avoid the purchase of bottled water by refilling from the tap.
You will be on the move a good deal, so again, pack as lightly as possible. It is in your own interest as you are expected to carry your own luggage, though distances are never great. It is also important that your bags can be locked, as it may be necessary Night time temperatures can be low in the height of the winter months and at altitude so bring a set of warmer clothes. Thermal underclothes, being small and light, can be very useful.
A light water and windproof jacket is useful and a hat essential.
NB: During our trip there will be many opportunities for you to meet and talk with locals. One way to start any conversation is with pictures. We recommend that you bring some photos/postcards of your family, home, city or country where you live.
Latin Americans can be very conscious of appearance so try to be casual but conservative in your dress. Outside of beach areas halter tops and very short shorts should not be worn. When visiting churches or religious sites shoulders and knees should be covered.
The following checklist is to be used as a guide only and is not intended to be a complete packing list. Any other items that you wish to pack are at your own discretion however you should attempt to comply with the suggested luggage weight limit.
Passport (with photocopies)
Travel insurance (with photocopies)
Airline tickets (with photocopies)
Travellers cheques/money/credit/debit card
Vouchers, pre-departure and trip notes
Any entry visas or vaccination certificates required
First-aid kit
Fleece top
Sunblock
Windproof/waterproof jacket
Sturdy walking shoes
Thermal underwear
Gloves
Sunglasses
Swim wear
Torch
Toiletries (biodegradable)
Watch or alarm clock
Sun hat
Blow up neck pillow, reading material, audio player for long bus journeys
Water bottle
Sleeping bag . Alternatively you can hire it locally for approximately USD 10 a day. Make sure you tell your leader on day 1 of the trip if you intend to hire it locally for him/her to make the necessary arrangements. Please note we can not guarantee sleeping bags will be available.
Camera and film/memory card
Currency exchange rates often fluctuate. For the most up to date rates please refer to the following website: www.oanda.com.
With ATMs being widely available in major towns and cities, credit and debit cards are the best way to access money - note though that charges are made for each transaction. Please check with your bank before departure that your card is accepted in the countries you are travelling to. Also ensure your bank is aware of your travel plans as - suspecting fraud - they may cancel your cards after the first few international transactions.
Be aware that your withdrawing limit may vary from country to country (regardless of your withdrawing limit in your home country) and it can be as low as the equivalent to US$100 per day.
It is also advisable to carry some cash in small denominations bills, for those times when ATMs may not be available. US dollars are the most readily changeable currency.
VERY IMPORTANT:
US$100 bills with serial number CB or BE and any other USD bills that are old, torn, written or stamped on will not be accepted by local banks.
Argentina
International Departure Tax: USD$22
Domestic Tax: USD$6
Payable by passenger at airport
If you need to be contacted while travelling we recommend email. Email cafes are generally available throughout the regions we visit, although it is possible you may be without email contact for several days on some itineraries. If someone wishes to contact you in an emergency while you are on one of our trips we recommend that they contact your local booking agent, or refer to our emergency contact details. We don't recommend that family and friends try to contact you through hotels, as they are subject to change and the reception staff may not speak English.
While we always endeavour to provide the best possible holiday experience, due to the nature of travel and the areas we visit sometimes things can and do go wrong. Should any issue occur while you are on your trip it is imperative that you discuss this with your group leader or our local partner straight away so that they can do their best to rectify the problem and save any potential negative impact on the rest of your trip.
We recognise that there may be times when your group leader/local partner may not be able to resolve a situation to your satisfaction - if this is the case please ask the leader if you may speak to their direct manager.
You may also choose to provide details in your online feedback which we ask you to complete within 30 days of the end of your trip but we do ask you to be aware that it is very difficult for us to provide any practical help after the trip is complete.
All OUT Adventures travelers need to be in good physical health in order to participate fully in the group travel experience.
If, in the opinion of our group leader, any traveler is unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or
the rest of the group, OUT Adventures reserves the right to exclude them from all or part of a trip without refund. We therefore
ask that you read the itinerary in these Trip Notes thoroughly and then realistically self-assess your physical ability to complete
the trip as described. Please consult with your doctor if you have any doubts.
There are no specific health requirements for this trip. However, the World Health Organisation has countries in Latin America registered as zones affected by Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Cholera, Rabies and Malaria. You should consult your doctor with a complete list of countries you intend to visit to get up-to-date information regarding vaccinations, anti-malarial requirements or medications for any reasonably foreseeable illnesses whilst travelling in Latin America. We recommend that you carry a First Aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements. Please be aware that we are in remote areas and away from medical facilities for some time during this trip, and for legal reasons leaders/guides are prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache tablets, antibiotics, etc.
If you have a pre existing medical condition, please make sure you discuss it with your doctor.
Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel.
We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure.
Please refer to our website's Safety page for links to major travel advisories and updates on safety issues
affecting our trips: www.out-adventures.com/safety.
We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe-keeping of your passport,
air tickets, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewelry at home - you won't need it while travelling.
Many of our hotels have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables.
A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. Your leader will accompany you on all included activities however
during your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy or explore at your leisure.
While your group leader will assist you with the available options in a given location, please note that any optional
activities you undertake are not part of your OUT Adventures itinerary, and OUT Adventures makes no representations
about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgment when
selecting an activity in your free time. Please also note that your group leader has the authority to amend or cancel
any part of the trip itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to safety concerns. For more details on the type of conditions
and safety standards you can expect on your trip, please refer to OUT Adventures' operational safety policy at
www.out-adventures.com/safety.
We recommend that you take a moment to read through this information before travelling, and would appreciate any
feedback on how well it is being implemented in the field.
Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure. We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travellers' cheques, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewellery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. When travelling on a group trip, please note that your group leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to safety concerns. Your leader will accompany you on all included activities. During your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy or explore at your leisure. While your group leader will assist you with options available in a given location please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your itinerary, and we offer no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgement when selecting an activity in your free time.
On an OUT trip you will be travelling with other gay or gay-friendly passengers. We encourage open minded friends and family to join our trips. As you travel on a group trip you will be exposed to all the pleasures and maybe some of the frustrations of travelling in a group. Your fellow travelers will probably come from all corners of the world and likely a range of age groups too. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group - patience with your fellow travelers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone's travel experience. Remember too that you have responsibilities to the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time, ensure that you don't keep the rest of the group waiting. We have found time and time again that the very best trips we operate are those where the dynamics within the group work well - this takes just a little effort on your part.
Please note that due to privacy reasons we are unable to provide you with contact details and any personal information about your fellow travelers booked on your trip prior to departure.
With the exception of our Comfort and In Style trips, our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers share with people of the same sex for the duration of the trip, in accommodation ranging from twin to multi-share. Please note some of our itineraries have accommodation booked on a mixed gender share basis - where applicable this will be specified in our Trip Notes. On our Comfort & In Style trips you have the choice of sharing or paying a single supplement. Please note that this only applies to accommodation during the tour. Pre- and post-trip accommodation will be booked on a single room basis.
We believe strongly in low impact, or rather, positive impact tourism. Broadly speaking this means that we try to minimize the negative aspects of tourism on the local cultures and environments that we visit and highlight the positive aspects. Please refer to our website at www.out-adventures.com/responsibletravel for further details and suggestions on how you can be a responsible traveler.
Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on our trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for OUT Adventures travelers. OUT Adventures' philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter, and in particular the local people who make our destinations such special places. The exploitation of prostitutes is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our group leader has the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they use prostitutes.
After your travels, we want to hear from you! This is so important to us that we'll give you 5% off the price of your next trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 4 weeks of finishing your trip. Go to: www.out-adventures.com/feedback
Thanks
Do you want to see your travel photos published? To celebrate all that is travel photography,
OUT Adventures holds an annual photography competition. For more information, prize details, entry form and competition conditions,
please visit www.out-adventures.com/photocomp.
Send entries to The Editor,
OUT Adventures,
PO Box 98026, 970 Queen St E
Toronto, ON
Canada, M4M 3L9
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