• - Upgrade to Sky Suite with Veranda
• - Upgrade to Sky Suite with Infinite Veranda
• - Upgrade to Premium Sky Suites with Infinite Veranda
• - Upgrade to Ultimate Sky Suite with Infinite Veranda
• - Upgrade to Royal Suite
• - Upgrade to Penthouse Suite

Quito: JW Marriott Quito Hotel or similar

Tourist VISA is NOT REQUIRE for USA & CANADA passport holders

Chile 

It is the longest and thinnest country in the world, which extends between the Andes Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. In addition to sharing borders with Argentina, Peru and Bolivia, Chile also has territory in Polynesia and Antarctica, becoming a tricontinental nation. Chile invites you to live adventures in the middle of the driest desert in the world, in front of millenary glaciers waiting to be discovered or under the watchful eye of the Andes Mountains in the midst of the movement of its capital. These contrasts have marked the identity of the country and its people.

GEOGRAPHY 

Chile is the longest and thinnest nation on the planet. It borders Peru to the north, Bolivia and Argentina to the east, the Polo to the south and the Pacific Ocean to the west. Its relief is rugged and mountainous. The country is usually considered as tricontinental because in addition to its territory in the American continent, it is also present in Antarctica and Easter Island. In Chilean territory you can find all kinds of manifestations of nature: millennial glaciers, salt flats that shine like snow, the driest desert on the planet, forests, lakes, jungles and volcanoes. 

CLIMATE 

Due to the extension of the Chilean territory its temperatures are varied, although, in general, the country presents a high degree of humidity and rainfall, particularly in autumn and winter. Different types of climates can be identified according to the region in the Republic of Chile:

- North: This is the most arid region of the country, where rainfall is scarce. The average rainfall in the Chilean region of Antofagasta is only 1 mm of rain per year. Antofagasta has the temperature in summer with a maximum of 24°C and minimum of 17°C, while in winter are the maximums of 17°C and minimum of 11°C.

- Centre: The climate in this region is of a temperate Mediterranean type, characterized by well-differentiated seasons: winters are full of clouds, cold and humidity. The beautiful spring weather predominates and temperatures start to increase, although sometimes rain is possible. In summer the temperature reaches its maximum value, and it rarely rains. In autumn, good weather prevails. The rainy season in this part of the country is between May and August. The Santiago area has an average summer temperature of 19°C, with maximums of 29°C and minimums of 12°C, while in winter the average is 7°C, with maximums of 14°C and minimums of 3°C.

- South: This region is characterized by an oceanic, humid and windy climate with low temperatures. The rainfall is especially intense from April to September; the rainiest month of all is June with 550 mm of rain, while the annual average is 2700 mm.

- Southern Region: In the northern zone of Southern Chile, rain is abundant and falls throughout the year. Average temperatures in summer are around 14°C, while in winter they are around 4°C. The southern extreme of the country is drier and colder, here rainfall is less than 500 mm per year.

COIN 

Since 1975 the monetary unit of Chile is the Chilean peso. There are coins that are equivalent to 1, 5, 10, 50, 100 and 500 pesos, and also 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000 and 20,000 peso bills.

VOLTAGE, FREQUENCY AND PLUG/OUTLET TYPE IN URUGUAY 

The electrical voltage is 220 volts. Therefore, those appliances designed for 110V should use a transformer. Traveling appliances and laptops usually come with an auto-voltage transformer (110V-240V) that adapts to Chilean electricity. 

TIME ZONE 

Chile's official time is composed of three time zones, according to the Universal Time Coordinated or UTC, because this country has presence in America, Antarctica and Oceania. Since 2017 Chile has 3 time zones which are applied in the following territories: Easter Island, Magallanes and Chilean Antarctica and the rest of Continental Chile.

In this way, we can identify the following time zones:

- Continental Chile: UTC-3 in summer and UTC-4 in winter.

- Easter Island: UTC-5 in summer and UTC-6 in winter This time zone has 2 hours of difference with Continental Chile and is changed on the same dates.

- Magellan and Chilean Antarctica: UTC-3. Summer time all year round. This time zone has been in use since 2017.

Winter time is applied for five months starting on the first Saturday of April and ends on the same day, but in September.

LANGUAGE 

The official language is Spanish. There are also languages of the original peoples that are still used today, such as Mapudungún (Mapuche), Quechua, and Rapa Nui.

ECONOMY 

Chile has the most developed economy in Latin America. It leads the region in several rankings of human development, competitiveness, per capita income, low perception of corruption, monetary and multidimensional poverty, etc. Its economy can be divided into three, according to the activities that are developed: in primary, secondary and tertiary.

- Primary activities: Chile's agriculture is as diverse as its territories. Some of Chile's agricultural products are grapes, apples, pears, onions, corn, peaches, garlic, beef, wool, fish, wood and hemp. This activity is highly developed in comparison to other countries in the region, and it also has several competitive advantages in the world market. On the one hand, it has a great variety of climates and terrains that allows it to produce diverse products. On the other hand, being located in the southern hemisphere has different harvest months to those of the northern hemisphere which allows their products are ready when they are more demanded. Mining is one of the most dynamic sectors of the economy. The main mining products of Chile are copper, gold, silver, molybdenum, iron and lithium.

- Secondary economic activities: Secondary activities or the industrial sector are the second most important activities in the Chilean economy. The main industrial complexes are located in the areas of Santiago, Valparaíso and Concepción because they have a good disposition of labor, energy sources, transportation routes and raw materials. These activities depend largely on mining extractions, especially copper.

- Tertiary economic activities: here we can find tourism. This sector has become one of Chile's main economic resources since the 1990s. Another very important sector in the tertiary activities is the financial one. In relation to its population, Chile's banking sector is the largest and most developed in South America. In addition, according to several external investigations it is the most sophisticated in the region and one of the most efficient in the world.

Finally, Chile is also recognized for its retail sector. It is common for people from other countries to come to the country to make purchases.

Travel tips and suggestions 

1. Best Time to Travel 

Chile is a country that extends for thousands of kilometers from north to south, so each region has a different climate and a different time period in which it is best to visit. In the north, the best time to visit is from May to September. In the center, the best time to travel is summer, between November and March. In the south, the best months are during the summer, between December and February.

2. What to wear 

To visit Chile is to enjoy its nature and spend time outdoors. At any of the extremes of the country, it is advisable to wear dark glasses and a sun block. The south and the high places are windy. Depending on the time of year and the places you visit, you will need to be equipped against the cold or rain. In the temperate zones, a light raincoat that protects from a shower, that also acts as a windcheater and that can always be carried in your backpack. Some warm clothes of the type of polar lining or some fiber of less weight and less volume can also be convenient. In the north, the Atacama Desert has a harsh climate and will force you to protect yourself from the heat. A breathable dress and light pants. At nightfall, a little coat may be necessary. Of course, if you intend to walk in open spaces, we recommend you to wear trekking style shoes or a pair of sandals for walking; the same as folding sticks for longer or harder tours.

3. What to do 

The beautiful city of Punta Arenas is the starting point of the tour towards places of special beauty and interest, such as the Torres del Paine, Fort Bulnes and the Antarctic continent.

In the central area, a very good option is to go on the Wine Route, visit winter resorts highlighted by their ski fields, and of course, practice mountain climbing.

In the North, you can visit archaeological and astronomical sites.

In the coast, the beaches and the national parks where you can practice ecotourism activities.

4. Other facts and tips 

In the many cities of the country, it is relatively easy to find automated teller machines (ATMs) that allow you to withdraw money in the local currency. At the same time, most of the established shops allow you to pay with international bank cards.

Although some shops accept dollars or euros, it is convenient to make the change to Chilean pesos, always in established shops, this way the difference in conversion will be less.

When traveling around the country, be careful with your bags and suitcases to avoid petty theft and live your experience in Chile safely.

In different parts of the country you can find spaces dedicated to providing information and guidance to those who are visiting the country.

Crossing the Atacama Desert

Cross the dunes of the Atacama, the driest desert in the world, with its salt flats, hot springs and geysers, by four-wheel drive vehicle.

Contemplate the cosmopolitan life of Santiago de Chile

Santiago is a box of surprises. There is much to discover in its streets and neighborhoods, where modernity coexists with the most deeply rooted local traditions. You'll find everything from small cafés, designer shops, good bookshops and fine craft shops to large shopping centers and long blocks of luxury brand shops.

Skiing on the hillsides of the Andes

When Santiago is covered in white, skiers and lovers of this sport know that it is time to climb the mountains in Farellones, El Colorado, La Parva, Valle Nevado and Portillo, among others. Each one has different characteristics and has different approaches according to the needs of the visitor and his or her level or skill in skiing.

Traditional gastronomy of the region 

Chilean gastronomy has become one of the most acclaimed in all of Latin America. The mix between indigenous tradition and Spanish colonial contribution has created a rich culinary culture, with traces of the best European cuisines, such as German, Italian and French. These elements have shaped what is known today as "Chilean Creole cuisine," which stands out for its flavor, ingredients, and the color of its dishes, as well as a great regional variety, which make up a rich and internationally acclaimed cuisine. Chile's geographical diversity has led to the emergence of different types of cuisine, with very varied recipes. In all varieties, the dishes have been influenced by indigenous cultures, mixing poultry, meat, seafood and fish with different seasonings typical of each region.

Some of the typical dishes of the country are:

Chumbeque:

A typical sweet from northern Chile, made from butter, flour and layers of fruit honeys, such as lemon or mango.

Choriqueso:

is a small piece of bread filled with chorizo paste and melted cheese. The traditional thing is to eat it with a glass of milk with banana. 

Curanto:

Traditional indigenous preparation typical of Chiloé The original one is called "curanto en hoyo", since it has a very particular cooking method: a hole is dug, stones are introduced and a fire is made until they are red-hot. Then the ingredients are introduced, which are usually potatoes, sausages, pork, beef, clams and mussels. Then it is covered with nalca leaves and a layer of earth, and it is left to cook.v

Chorrillana:

Some say that this dish has its origin in Valparaiso, others in the Peruvian port of Chorrillos. The truth is that the only place to eat it is in Chile, and it is already a national emblem. Its ingredients are simple: a good source of chips, fried onion, sausage, chopped beef and fried eggs on top. This dish is obviously too much for one person, so it is always shared among friends, usually with a cold lager beer. The best places to try it, which have even won prizes, are the restaurants El Pimentón and Bar Victoria, both located in Valparaíso. 

Pastel de Jaiba: 

Prepared from the meat of the legs of crabs caught off the coast of Chile, this dish is the emblem of many restaurants on the coast, which compete to have the best cake in the area. In addition to crab, the preparation includes bread, milk, garlic, onion and cheese. This delicacy will bring all the flavor of the sea to your mouth.

Sopaipillas:

Very popular and widespread preparation from north to south. It is very common to eat them when it rains, and these fried doughs are made of wheat flour, butter, and cooked pumpkin. In southern Chile, Sopaipillas are a little different, as they don't contain pumpkin and are more like fried bread.

Argentina 

Argentina is a land of contrasts, from the vast plains of the east to the Andes in the West where Aconcagua, the highest peak of the Western Hemisphere at 6,959 m, towers above the other mountains. The variety of landscape ranges from the high plateau of the Northwest –with its deserts, valleys, gorges and brightly colored hills- to the lakes, forests, glaciers, steppe, mountains and cliffs of Patagonia. From the wetlands, lagoons, waterfalls and subtropical rainforest of the Northeast, to the expanse of flat Pampas in Buenos Aires Province and the rolling hills of Cordoba. 

GEOGRAPHY 

Argentina is the second largest country in South America, forth in the American continent and eighth in the world. Its continental territory occupies most part of the south part of the continent and limits to the north with Bolivia and Paraguay; to the northeast with Brazil; to the west and south with Chile and to the east with Uruguay and the Atlantic Ocean. 

The Argentine territory has a varied landscape, in which coexist ice fields and desert zones, one can find mountains and plains, river courses, lakes and the Ocean, without leaving aside forests and rainforests. 

CLIMATE 

There are four main kinds of climates in Argentina: warm, mild, arid and cold. They vary quite noticeably because of the extension of the territory and the different geographic reliefs. 

COIN 

The Argentine peso. 

You will find coins of 1, 2, 5 and 10 Argentine pesos, and coins of 25 and 50 cents. On the reverse of the coins appear important trees or monuments of Argentina. 

The bills are 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1000 pesos, and carry important monuments, natural landscapes and wildlife of the country. 

VOLTAGE, FREQUENCY AND PLUG/OUTLET TYPE 

The current in Argentina is 220V alternating and 50 cycles per second. If you travel to this country with a device that does not allow 220V and 50 Hertz, you will need a voltage converter. 

The electrical outlets used in Argentina are of the C / I type. 

TIME ZONE 

UTC-3. 

LANGUAGE 

Spanish is the official language. The Argentine Spanish has been somewhat modified by the Italians who migrated in large numbers to both countries. 

There are also several languages corresponding to the different natives (Guaraní, Quechua, Aymara, Mapuche) among others. 

ECONOMY 

Thanks to the fresh water richness, this country of green meadows offers, together with the mild climate, the ideal conditions for agriculture, livestock and afforestation. In this way, the prairies are mostly used for cattle and sheep breeding, while in the fields is grown corn, soy and sunflower, as well as vines. More than 80% of the country's surface is suitable for agriculture. 

It is also worth mentioning the wine industry that promises to have a great future, since here you find the ideal climatic conditions: heat, sun light and rain. The leader in Uruguay is the Tannat variety. 

Tourism is, together with the agricultural sector, the most important sector of economic activity. 

Travel tips and suggestions 

1. Best Time to Travel 

Given the size of Argentina, each zone has its best time to visit throughout the year. If you visit the country during spring, from September to November, the weather is perfect in almost every region, although in Patagonia, the icy winds could be around as well. 

The Argentine summer is between December and February, and it is the only time to climb the highest peaks of the Andes, such as the Aconcagua. On the contrary, Buenos Aires is likely to be very hot in December and January, and the north should be avoided since temperatures can be very high and roads can be flooded by heavy storms. 

The Argentine autumn, March and April, is a good time to visit Mendoza and San Juan to go to the wine harvests, as well as Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego. 

The winter months (June, July and August) represent the ideal time to go to the ski resorts, but blizzards can block the cities of Patagonia and many places between May and August, so it is not a good time to go the southern region. Temperatures in the north of the country are usually pleasant at this time of year. 

As a last point to keep in mind: Argentinean's vacations are in January, February and July, as in other countries in Latin America, so booking transportation and accommodation can be a bit difficult task due to the high demand. 

2. What to wear 

A trip to Argentina means, in most cases, enjoying the outdoors and getting close to nature. Thus, binoculars will help to see wildlife more closely, or the detail of the ice of a glacier. 

If you take a hiking tour, especially on top of the ice of the glaciers, it is advisable to wear gloves that protect the hands of the edges of the ice, in the case of a fall or having to rely on something solid. 

If you visit Patagonia, it is convenient to wear a scarf or windbreaker. In most places you will need a jacket and a fleece coat or simialr, even if it is summer, since in the same day you can have all 4 seasons. 

To the list of essential elements, we can add: repellent, sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, a thin raincoat and an umbrella. 

Good shoes will be necessary. Boots or good walking shoes will be very useful, especially if planning activities to the outdoors. Sandals with good foot grip will surely be appreciated if the trip is to warmer regions. 

Finally, if you plan to enjoy a meal in a good restaurant or attend a Tango show in Buenos Aires, it is recommended to wear elegant sport. 

3. What to do 

The Argentine northwest is one of the places that attract travelers call for their amazing landscapes, in addition to their culture and typical dishes. 

Towards the northeast, the Ibera Wetlands and its surroundings stand out, with historic villages on the banks of the rivers, surrounded by a unique landscape, flora and fauna. It is also in this region that we find the world famous Iguazu Falls. 

The Cuyo region, with Mendoza as its main location, is famous for producing some of the best wines in the world, an activity that is one of the main industries in Argentina. 

The central region, composed of a mix of plains, mountains and beaches on the Atlantic coast also moves tourism, mainly local. Mar del Plata and the Córdoba Hills stand out, but the main touristic center in this region is the city of Buenos Aires. 

The City of Buenos Aires has an infinite number of places to visit: Caminito, Puerto Madero, Recoleta, Palermoand the San Telmo Fair. It is also a must to attend tango shows in beautiful theaters as well as witness them around the city streets. With countless parks, galleries, restaurants and a beautiful architectural heritage, Buenos Aires is a magical city. 

Finally, Patagonia is, along with Iguazu, the most visited area by foreigners, and is very diverse from east to west, north to south. To the east, on the coast, Puerto Madryn and Trelew stand out for the Welsh heritage, ecotourism and whale and penguin watching. 

To the west of Patagonia you can find cities surrounded by the natural beauty of the mountains, forests, lakes, and the glaciers, and milky-looking lakes further south in El Chaltén and El Calafate. 

Finally, to the south of Patagonia, and across the Andes, is the southernmost city in the world and the Argentine gate to the Antarctica: Ushuaia, and one of the places that most inspired Darwin in his trip through South America. 

4. Other facts and tips 

• In Argentina bargaining is not common. It is not mandatory to leave tips, but if waiters serve you well, it is customary to leave around 10% in bars and restaurants. 

• In relation to safety, it is advisable to have precautions as in any big city in the world, especially pickpockets. It is advisable to be cautious, such as not showing valuable objects in certain areas of cities. 

• Currencies can be exchanged in any exchange bureau in the cities and airports, although in the latter the exchange rate is always more expensive. 

• Regarding visas, Argentina is a country that almost all countries can enter with their passport in order, without the need to process a visa. Please check with the local embassy or consulate if you have questions. 

Best things to do in the area 

1. Sail on the Beagle Channel and see the The End of the World Lighthouse (Ushuaia) 

The Beagle Channel is a sea passage between Argentina and Chile located south of the province of Tierra del Fuego, specifically in front of the city of Ushuaia. It is one of the most wonderful tours that can be done during a stay at the “end of the world” due to its majestic beauty and its incredible landscape. 

2. Take photos in the Great Salt Flats (Jujuy) 

The Great Salt Flats provide a unique show due to their size and the effect with the horizon. They are even more imposing during the rainy season since they are covered by 30 cm. of water producing a turquoise panorama overlooking the Chañi Mount behind them. 

3. Whale watching in Puerto Madryn 

The southern right whale watching is one of the main activities in Puerto Madryn and its surroundings. 

The whales arrive on the coasts of the Valdés Peninsula during May and stay to reproduce and feed their calves until mid-December. 

As whales do not arrive or depart all at once, at the beginning and end of the season there are few of them, making it more difficult to observe them, so the best time to watch them id between September and November. 

4. Visit the Colón Theatre (Buenos Aires) 

This Opera House, declared a Historic National Landmark in 1991, is among the most important lyric theaters in the world. 

The construction of the current building began in the early 1890s, on the lands that occupied the first railway station in the country. The building was finally inaugurated on May 25, 1908, with the presentation of the opera Aída, by Giuseppe Verdi. 

A must do in Buenos Aires is to take a guided tour of the theater or, even more advisable, to attend a ballet or opera while visiting the town. 

5. Hike on the Perito Moreno Glacier (El Calafate) 

The Perito Moreno Glacier is located on the Andes mountain range, nearby the city of El Calafate and is the natural limit between Argentina and Chile. It is one of the few in the world that remains stable, without going back as a result of warming global. 

Walking on the glacier is an unforgettable experience one which you can marvel at the fascinating and endless forms of the ancient ice. Colors, shapes and sounds will be part of this unique experience of walking on the most emblematic glacier in the Argentine Patagonia. 

6. Get into the world of the Tango (Buenos Aires) 

Tango resonates around the streets of Buenos Aires, in its urban landscapes and in its people. The lyrics, passion and nostalgia collect the most visceral feelings of longing. 

Learn your first steps of the Tango with the best professionals, whether in a private or group classes. Attending a Tango show or a Milonga, where you can test the steps learned in the classes, are a must do as well! 

7. Visit the Iguazu Falls under the light of the full moon 

Only 5 nights a month, the Iguazu Falls get a new and unique shape thanks to the moonlight on full moon days. This natural effect allows rediscovering the falls in a way that you will not be able to see anywhere else. 

The night walk proposes a tour that begins by getting on the ecological train of the jungle towrads the famous Garganta del Diablo. 

Check the calendar, since if your trip coincides with any full moon, you should not miss this great experience. 

Main Attractions and Destinations 

1. Buenos Aires 

It is one of the most beautiful cities in South America, with an architecture that resembles that of some European cities such as Paris or Barcelona, with the same charm. 

Within the city there are countless of places to go: Plaza de Mayo, Caminito, Puerto Madero, Recoleta, Villa Palermo, the mythical football states El Monumental and La Bombonera, Casa Rosada (the seat of government) and of course the Imposing Obelisk. 

It is also a must-do to attend some tango shows in one of the several theaters around the city. 

With countless parks, galleries, restaurants and beautiful architectural heritage, it is a magical city. 

2. The Iguazu National Park 

Located on the border with Brazil, the Iguazu National Park has 250,000 km2 in with landscapes recognized worldwide as one of the most beautiful. In it we can find animals and plant species unique in the world. 

This imposing waterfall is divided by the Brazilian jungle that flows into the Paraná River and a large part is located in the Misiones province, on the Argentine side. 

This majestic work of Nature is considered a Natural World Heritage Site since 1984. 

The Argentine side has 275 falls and is larger than the Brazilian park, so it offers several options for walks and activities. 

Among the walks through the Iguazu Falls, you can find the upper and lower route and the jungle train that takes you to the main water fall called Garganta del Diablo. 

3. Bariloche 

This beautiful town is located in the Nahuel Huapi National Park and on the shores of the lake carrying the same name as the park. It has dreamlike landscapes, forests, lakes, rivers and mountains that hide great volcanoes. 

One of the main activities that can be practiced in the winter season is skiing. On the other hand, during summer, it is the best season for some adventure sports such as horseback riding, kayaking, rafting, hiking on different trails and stand up paddle. 

The architecture of the place has a European style, due to the legacy of a strong German, Swiss and Central European immigration, which together, with the luxury cuisine, make Bariloche one of the tourist sites par excellence around Argentina. 

4. Ushuaia 

On the other side of the Andes Mountain Range, in Tierra del Fuego, you can find the beautiful town of Ushuaia, surrounded by the most dazzling landscapes composed of snowy mountains, glaciers, forests, rivers, and the Beagle Channel. 

The tourist options are very varied, especially those related to sports and outdoor activities. There is also the possibility of taking some sailing tours towards the Lighthouse of the End of the World, or to a penguin rookery; to board on a cruise of several nights through the Beagle Channel towards Chile or to the mythical Antarctica. 

5. Humahuaca Gorge 

The Humahuaca Gorge is one of the World Heritage Sites declared by the UNESCO and that can be found in the country. 

It is located in the north of Argentina and is famous for its arid landscapes that for the composition of the soil and the eroded mountains, it creates spectacular sceneries full of colors. 

Here you can find colorful mountains all around, creating the ideal location for those who like mountain climbing and trekking, but at the same time are looking for a cultural immersion, due to the several villages lost in the mountains, allowing visitors to learn about the local culture, their traditional dishes and crafts. 

Visiting the Hornocal Hill lookout point, attending the Carnival in La Quiaca town or the coming to the “Pachamama” (Mother Earth) celebration in August, are some of the must-sees in this great destination. 

6. The Valdés Peninsula and its surroundings 

Visiting the peninsula is an unforgettable experience for both adults and children, since from its beaches one can watch sea lions, elephant seals and southern right whales, especially between June and December. 

Some of the outstanding activities are diving with sea lions, sailing in search of whales, or walking among the penguins in the largest Penguin colony in South America. 

In addition, if having a spare day, a visit to the city of Gaiman can be very interesting, since the Welsh culture of the original immigrants is still alive in the streets and language of its peoples. 

7. The Perito Moreno Glacier 

This huge glacier is located in the southern sector of Los Glaciares National Park and is about 30km long, 5km wide and 60km high. 

The National Park allows hikes and navigations, on which visitors can enjoy the view of amazing landscapes, shaped by infinite bluish ice needles and also learn about the ancestral ice. 

In addition to El Perito Moreno Glacier, tourists can visit the other glaciers of Lake Argentino such as Upsala and the Spegazzini. 

8. Mendoza 

Mendoza is one of the main wine regions in South America and although it is has a desert-like weather and landscape, thanks to the canals taking water from the rivers up in the mountains, there are thousands of vineyards and cellars, allowing the wine industry to prosper and tourists, to get involve in wine tasting tours. 

In addition to the vineyard tours, the surroundings of the city of Mendoza allow the practice of numerous adventure sports, such as horseback riding, hiking, rafting or hiking on one of the several routes on the Aconcagua Mount, which has different difficulty levels, but all of them with spectacular views. 

9. Iberá Wetlands 

The Iberá, is the second largest wetland in South America, with an area of 12,000 km², and the refuge of a great biodiversity of flora and fauna, without leaving aside the cultural heritage from the first inhabitants of the region. 

It is the habitat of more than 4,000 species of animals and plants, thus it is an excellent place for bird watching, reaching up to 350 different species. 

The life of the gauchos there is very particular for being in constant contact with the water; They have adapted their way of life to the landscape, being another great attraction and cultural immersion. 

Traditional gastronomy of the region 

The Argentine cuisine comes, as in most aspects of the Argentinean culture, from a blend of the Italian, Spanish, Central European and Native American influences, without leaving aside the agricultural products that are important in one of the country´s main industry. 

Argentineans have a reputation for their love of eating, so gatherings are commonly centered on sharing a meal. Sunday family lunch is considered the most significant meal of the week, whose highlights often include asado (barbecue) or pasta. 

Here are some useful tips about what to expect when looking for a traditional meal in the different regions of Argentina: 

• Most regions of Argentina are known for their beef-oriented diet, especially the grilled meat, such as the asado cooked with coal or wood, steaks and beef ribs. Chorizo (pork sausage), morcilla (blood sausage), chinchulines (chitterlings), mollejas (sweetbread), and other parts of the animal are also enjoyed during a asado. 

• In Patagonia, lamb and baby goat are eaten more frequently than cow beef and are traditionally cooked over an open fire. 

• The most common condiment for asado is Chimichurri, a sauce of herbs, garlic and vinegar. Unlike other preparations, Argentines do not include chili. 

• Breaded and fried meats — milanesas — are used as snacks, in sandwiches, or eaten warm with mashed potatoes — purée. The most traditional ones are the Milanesas Napolitanas, which include cheese, ham and sauce on top of it. 

• Empanadas — small pastries of meat, cheese, sweet corn, and other different other fillings — are common across the country, alouth each region has a slight variation of them. 

• Pizza and pasta are eaten as commonly as beef. A must do in Buenos Aires, is to go to a traditional pizzeria in Buenos Aires and try a slice of pizza, along with a slice of Fainá, which is a chick pea-flour dough placed over the piece of pizza. 

• Picadas, which are usually found at home or in bars, are also popular. They consist of a mix of salted snacks, or tapasand usually accompanied by an alcoholic beverage, such as beer or the Fernet (the Italian bitter) with coca cola. 

• In Chubut, in the Argentinean Patagonia, the Welsh community is known for its teahouses, offering scones and torta galesa, which is rather like torta negra. 

• Dulce de leche is another treasured national food, used to fill cakes and pancakes, spread over toasted bread for breakfast, or served as ice cream. 

• Alfajores are shortbread cookies sandwiched together with chocolate and dulce de leche or fruit marmalade. 

• A traditional drink of Argentina is an infusion called mate. The name comes from the hollow gourd from which it is traditionally drunk. It is filled about three-quarters full with yerba mate, the dried leaves and twigs of the Ilex paraguariensis and after adding some hot water, not boiling, the drink is sipped through a metal or cane straw called a bombilla. Mate can be sweetened with sugar, or flavored with aromatic herbs or dried orange peel. In small gatherings it is traditional for one mate to be passed from person to person, filled by whoever has the kettle or thermos. 

• Argentina produces several varieties of wines, but the Argentina’s flagship red grape is the Malbec, produced mainly in Mendoza region. On the other hand, the Torrontes is the thite wine grape that thrives in high altitudes of the Salta region, like Cafayate. 

Any of travel products or services that you purchase from UTOvacation contains a contractual agreement between you and UTOvacation and it represents that you have agreed to UTOvacation Terms and Conditions. Please make sure that you read carefully before making any payment. 
Reservation 
Online Reservations 
Step 1. Visit UTOvacation website: www.utovacation.com, login or Register your account. (Learn how to book online Click Here) 
Step 2. Choose your desired departure date and departure city
Step 3. Enter the travellers’ information according to their passport. Please identify and provide the contact information for the main passenger. All communication from UTOvacation will be sent to the main passenger only.  
Step 4. Make a deposit online 
A Non-refundable, non-transferable deposit is required to secure the space.  A full payment is required when booking if the package is a special on-sale product.
Step 5.  Finalize the booking.  
Final Payment  
Balance payment of any regular products or services is due 150 days prior to departure unless specified. If the full payment is not obtained by the due date, UTOvacation reserves the right to cancel such reservation and retain the pre-paid deposit to cover any expenses occurred.
* In addition, some products may require a second deposit before final payment. Please carefully review your product pages for reference. 
Step 6. Trip Confirmation. 
A final trip confirmation by email including day by day itinerary, hotel information, and flight information will be sent to the main contact passenger approximately one month before departure. 
By booking your tour online with UTOvacation.com you acknowledge and agree to all three terms and conditions including the Internet Sales & Deposit Policy and the Sales and Cancellation Policy.  You also confirm and agree that you understand that the deposit is non-refundable. 
Offline Reservations 
Step 1. Complete the reservation. 
Call 1-855-526-1286 to request Booking Form. Fill out all the information on the Booking Form with an authentic signature and date on the bottom of the second page. It is the passenger's responsibility to ensure documentation accuracy and travel documents validity. You will be liable for the full loss caused by incorrect information. By the time you full-fill the booking form, you have agreed to receive correspondence from UTOvacation which might include newsflash, email blast or any other promotions in the future.
Email/Fax your current and valid Passport Copy with the Booking Form together to info@utovacation.com/416-251-7778  
Step 2. Finalize the booking. 
Balance payment of any regular products or services is due 150 days prior to departure unless specified. If the full payment is not obtained by the due date, UTOvacation reserves the right to cancel such reservation and retain the pre-paid deposit to cover any expenses occurred. * In addition, some products may require a second deposit before final payment. Please carefully review your product pages for your reference. 
Step 3. Trip Confirmation. 
A final trip confirmation by email including day by day itinerary, hotel information, and flight information will be sent to the main contact passenger one month prior to departure.
Make the reservations. A Non-refundable, non-transferable deposit is required to secure the space. We accept cash, cheque, money order, debit card, credit card, email transfer, TD transfer. A full payment is required when booking if the package is a special on-sale product. 
By booking your tour offline with UTOvacation.com, you acknowledge and agree to all three terms and conditions including the Internet Sales & Deposit Policy and the Sales and Cancellation Policy.  You also confirm and agree that you understand that the deposit is non-refundable. 
Travel Visa  
The following documents from the passenger are required if travel visa is applied through UTOvacation’s Visa Center:

• Original Passport (Make sure your actual passport must be valid at least 6 months beyond the date of your expected departure time)
• Recent passport size photo with white background. Please note, each countries requirement may differ, please check requirement click here  
• Visa Application Form (Complete with signature and date)

*Remarks: If acquiring a visa on your own, the supporting documents will be provided from UTOvacation One Month prior to the trip departure date. Supporting documents requested early are subject to a $50 administration fee 
Trip Cancellation and Eligible Refunds 
Please ensure you have read the Trip Cancellation Policy in full and have not scrolled past or by-passed this section. 
UTOvacation reserves the right to cancel or modify a tour prior to departure date. An alternative departure date will be offered for no extra charge. 
All passenger cancellation or change requests must be confirmed in written form by email or fax including your reservation number, full name and date of travel, cancellations will only be accepted in writing. 
Any cancellation of issued flight tickets before outbound departure (all the segments are unused) at the originally issued place would incur a 100% penalty of per issued ticket. No refund will be issued once travel has begun. 
Cancellation terms will be applied based on the date that the written cancellation is received and based on the following dates prior to departure. 
All reservations, except where specified:

No refund will be available on departure date and/or after the tour has commenced (Including denied and/or rejected by Immigration Department or Custom of destination or Cruise port terminal officer). 
No refund or reimbursement will be available to passengers who voluntarily forego meals, cruise, tours and/or accommodations. A surcharge may apply should there be any additional fees occurred from services refused by the passengers. i.e. Since air ticket, cruise ticket, transportation, accommodation, and meals have to be arranged in advance during high season (i.e.Holidays, Special Events, and other important activities and conventions), no departure date changed is allowed. No refund will be available on departure date change and/or booking cancellation. 
Any other charges, refunds or rebates caused by the acts of God, Force Majeure, natural disasters, fire, weather, governmental and local authority's order, political change, strikes, war, riots, quarantine, custom regulations, damages or inquiry caused by accident is beyond the responsibility of UTOvacation and therefore, you agree to hold UTOvacation harmless and non-liable for any refunds or compensation outside of the previously defined refund structure. Furthermore, should the traveller violate any local/provincial or national laws during their travels, UTOvacation is not responsible or liable. By this signing the agreement the client agrees to any offer of a voucher, future company credit, or alternative arrangements as determined by management at that time. 
No refunds will be offered for Travel notices except for complete travel bans (Canada Travel Advisory Level 4) (USA Travel Advisory Level 4) which have occurred after the date of booking. Should an outright travel ban be implemented by the departing or destination country/city, a full travel credit will be offered.  Refunds will not be granted for pre-existing situations at the destination country at the time of the booking. Please note, should UTOvacation incur any unexpected costs from its suppliers, these costs would be subtracted from and balance/travel credit issued to the passenger 
Please note, any refunded amount will not include fees associated with Travel Visa’s which have already been issued or any services that have already been delivered. 
All reschedule tours are consider non-refundable; regular cancellation policy does not apply.

No Show 
If for any reason, a passenger does not attend the scheduled daily activities during the tour, an additional supplement fee of 100USD per day will be applied. (Only applicable for China discounted tours) 
Shopping During your Tour 
Although we would be happy to assist your shopping needs, UTOvacation would not be responsible for price, quality, and service of any goods purchased during the tour.
Price Adjustments 
After the booking is confirmed, if the price increased following the imposition of a surcharge on fuel by the carrier or an increase in the exchange rate, insofar as the exchange rate applicable before the date on which the services are provided has increased by more than 5% since the date on which the contract was entered into; and/or if the increase, without taking into account any increase in the provincial sales tax or Canada's goods and services tax, raising taxes, royalties or reauthorized charges by a competent public authority, is equal to or greater than 7% of the price of services, you may choose between a full and immediate reimbursement of the services or the provision of similar services.
Tour Adjustments 
UTOvacation retains the right to adjust, modify or reschedule tours if deemed necessary. 
UTOvacation also reserves the right to adjust your tour date or itinerary if it feels it is in the best interest of its passengers especially in cases that involve the health and safety. This may include minor adjustments like the timing of a scheduled tour attraction visit to a complete date modification. 
UTOvacation will do our best to notify you of any such changes before your departure (Or as soon as possible if you have already departed). 
Stipulations. Please note, UTOvacation does its’ best to fulfill its tour obligations. However, UTOvacation is not liable for scenarios which impact room availability, tour execution, separate fees or other elements of the tour that is enforced by third party individuals such as local and federal authorities. 
Tour Credits
UTOvacation on occasion may issue Travel Credits as either a reward or because of trip suspension. 
Travel Credits may be used on any UTOvacation product except for Travel Visa’s or First Class fare upgrades

• Travel Credits are non-transferable
• Travel Credits are not redeemable for cash
• Travel Credits will expire 30 months after original departure date
• Travel Credits may be used for more than one tour or destination

Travel Seat Arrangements 
Seating/Cabin assignment: UTOvacation has no power to control the seating selection on the aircraft or cabin location on the cruise (unless where specified). All the spots are arranged by the airline/cruise line group department or randomly selected by the computer system. Therefore, UTO vacation cannot help the customers to change, reserve, pre-assign seats/cabins. 

Cruise Cabin

The cruise cabin number and or location is randomly assigned by the cruise line which is called the Guaranty Cabin in the special package. The cabin number will be available no later than 3 days before the cruise sailing date.

Preferred Seat Upgrade: UTOvacation will not be responsible for any preferred seat upgrade on aircraft (except for business or first class seats). Some cruise packages allow the selection of cabins at the time of booking for an upgraded price; please refer to the product page for details. 

Reservation Adjustments 
Changes to an existing reservation by the passenger for whatever the cause, will incur a $100 per person charge plus any additional supplier fees. This includes name changes and removal of any services such as optional tours and transfers. 
*Please note that name changes to airline or cruise line reservations are subject to full cancellation or re-booking. See Airline Name Changes section for specific regulations.
Replacing a travelling passenger is subject to cancellation penalties and is not covered by this Reservation Changes policy. 
Changes or additional requests after departure are subject to local rates at the time of amendment and must be paid directly by the passenger to the service provider. UTOvacation will make its best effort to minimize these costs, however, all payment will be payable by request of the local service providers. 
There are no refunds for unused services. 

Travel Insurance 
UTOvacation strongly recommends all tour members to purchase travel insurance at the time of booking. UTOvacation does not directly offer Travel Insurance. The Travel Insurance recommended by UTOvacation are facilitated and owned by third party operators. Any Travel Insurance purchased by the passenger is governed by the third party and UTOvacation is not liable or responsible for said insurance.  

Baggage 
Each airline company has its own rules and regulations with the baggage weight, size, and number. The best way to find out the rules and regulations is to go visit the airline company official website. 
Please note, some destinations baggage is not included in the fair. Refer to your specific tour product page’s terms & conditions for specific baggage allowances.

Tour Fare Includes 
Please refer to your tour itinerary for the most updated information 

Tour Fare Excludes

• Visa Application Fee
• Any personal charges, such as phone bills, laundry, postage, and baggage over-weight charge, insurance, beverages, water, etc
• Optional Tours
• A Mandatory Service Charge & Tipping for guide, driver and restaurant waiters on tour or cruise are not included
• Any Items not listed in the itinerary
• Any other charges or incremental costs caused by the acts of God, Force Majeure, natural disasters, fires, weather, governmental and local authority's order, political change, strikes, war, riots, quarantine, custom regulations, damages or inquiry caused by the accident beyond the responsibilities of travel agents and incurred due to the tourist action violating the law.
• In the event of an “Act of God” and or Force Majeure, UTOvacation is not liable and reserve the right to remedy the situation as it sees fit.

UTO Assurance 

By purchasing UTOvacation's Travel Assurance program, passengers may rebook/reschedule their scheduled tour without penalty.

• UTOvacation's Travel Assurance Program must be purchased within 14 days of initial booking.
• UTOvacation's Travel Assurance program: reschedule/rebook up to 150 days before departure $ 99 - $ 399
• UTOvacation's Travel Assurance program: reschedule/rebook up to 120 days before departure $ 199 - $ 499
• UTOvacation's Travel Assurance program: reschedule/rebook up to 90 days before departure $ 299 - $ 599
• Please note, upon purchasing UTOvacation's Travel Assurance program, you understand that this program is non-refundable and non-transferable.

Please note, when UTOvacation's Travel Assurance program is purchased, payments made by the customer will first be applied to the UTOvacation's Travel Assurance program and then to the remainder of the tour package.

Additional Notes 
The extra cost of schedule delay caused by Air Flight cancellation or change will be undertaken by passengers themselves. The missed itineraries will not be re-arranged. During the tour or cruise, it will be considered as surrendering application automatically if you do not attend the pre-arranged tour or check in the prearranged hotel or cruise. 
All the extra cost will be undertaken by the client voluntarily. UTOvacation reserves the right to abandon any clients if such clients violate the law or damage the interest of tour groups If a travel visa is denied for any reason neither it is applied through UTOvacation Visa Service Center nor apply on your own, the tour cancellation policy applies when cancellation of the tour is requested. UTOvacation holds no responsibilities for any denied Travel Visa application.   
If a child, 18 years old or younger, is travelling abroad with only one parent/guardian, children MUST carry a notarized consent letter signed by non-accompanying parent/guardian. If a child, 18 years old or younger is travelling alone, children must carry a notarized consent letter signed by both parents/guardian. Such a consent letter may be requested by immigration authorities when entering or leaving from a foreign country or by North American officials when re-entering into USA or Canada. Failure of presenting such document may result in the rejection of boarding aircraft or vessel for the children concerned. 
UTOvacation reserves the right to cancel any booking/accommodation/flight arrangement if the customer fails to pay the compulsory tipping for the entire trip prior to departure date or the 1st day of arrival to the destination. (Please note, the tip is an industry-standard and is provided to the tour guides and bus drivers of the designated tours, to ensure our customers receive the best and high-quality service during the trip.) 
Cruise lines reserve the right to cancel, modify or substitute any scheduled port of calls and the schedule at any time and for any reason whatsoever without prior notice due to the navigation authority and water conditions. Any additional expenses cause by the trip interruption should be paid by the customers, which includes but not limited to meals, transportation, hotel accommodations, personal expense, and lost baggage. UTOvacation shall not be liable for any loss to guests. 
For children under 18 who will be occupying a bed, there will be an additional $100 supplement per child. Please note, this is only applicable China discounted tours or any trip that includes China discounter tours.