Lando South America: Ushuaia to Santiago
26 days, Ushuaia to Santiago
Introduction
Most road trips start somewhere familiar and head into the unknown. This one starts at the bottom of the world and works its way back. From Ushuaia — as far south as the road goes — the Lando rolls north through Patagonia's raw wilderness, past glaciers and granite towers and skies that refuse to be ordinary. By the time Santiago appears on the horizon, you'll have earned every kilometre of it.
- Begin in Ushuaia — the end of the road and the most dramatic starting point imaginable
- Watch Perito Moreno Glacier calve walls of ice into bright blue water
- Hike beneath the towers of Torres del Paine in one of the world's last true wildernesses
- Drive north along the legendary Carretera Austral through remote and roadless Patagonia
- Sleep under Patagonian skies and wake up ready for another day of adventure
- Roll into the volcanic lakes and lush forests of the Lake District as the continent opens up again
- Duration: 26 days
- Start/Finish City: Ushuaia to Santiago
- Service Level: Camping
- Camping most nights with some hotel/hostel stays to start and throughout; affordable public and private transport.
- Physical Grading: 3 - Average
- Some tours may include light hiking, biking, rafting, or kayaking in addition to walking.
- Travel Style: Classic
- All of the highlights, culture, access, and I-can’t-believe-we-did-that moments, all at a great price.
- Trip Type: Small Group
- Small group experience; Max 24, Avg. 16
What's Included
Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and Group. Free time in Ushuaia, El Calafate, El Chaltén, Coyhaique and Futalefú for optional activities. 2 full days of exploration in Torres del Paine National Park. Visit Perito Moreno Glacier. 3-day entrance ticket to Los Glaciares National Park. Drive along Argentina's famed Ruta 40 deep into the Patagonian wilderness. Visit the Cueva de las Manos UNESCO Heritage site. Travel along the Carretera Austral through Chile's pristine wilderness. Free time for optional activities in Puerto Varas, San Martín de los Andes and Pucón, Drive along the "Seven Lakes Route" with multiple scenic viewpoint stops, Visit and entrance fee to Los Pozones hot springs from Pucón. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
What are the main highlights of this trip?
Begin in Ushuaia — the end of the road and the most dramatic starting point imaginable, Watch Perito Moreno Glacier calve walls of ice into bright blue water, Hike beneath the towers of Torres del Paine in one of the world's last true wildernesses, Drive north along the legendary Carretera Austral through remote and roadless Patagonia, Sleep under Patagonian skies and wake up ready for another day of adventure, Roll into the volcanic lakes and lush forests of the Lake District as the continent opens up again
Is there a disclaimer I should read before booking this trip?
The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary.
VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you view a final copy of your Trip Details a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.
Is there an itinerary Disclaimer?
While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission.
Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.
What important notes should I be aware of before the trip?
1. COMBO TRIP
Please note that this tour combines with other G Adventures tours. As such, the staff and some travel companions on your tour may have previously been traveling together with G Adventures, prior to Day 1 of your tour. Likewise, some staff and travel companions may be continuing together on another G Adventures tour, after your trip concludes.
2. CHILEAN PDI
When you enter Chile, immigration will give you a PDI (Entry Card) — proof of your legal entry into the country. Please keep it with you for your departure from Chile, as it must be shown when leaving or if requested by authorities.
3. Please note that the included meal count may vary slightly based on the logistics of the drives. As a general rule, all meals are included on travel days and while camping. Please refer to the FAQ section for more details about the meals.
What is the group leader like?
On this tour, you will be accompanied by two Chief Experience Officers (CEOs). The Chief Experience Officers (CEOs) will be the group manager and leader, cook and driver. They will provide information on the places where we are travelling, offer suggestions for things to do and see, and introduce you to our local friends. They will take care of the small things so you can concentrate on enjoying your adventure.
All of our CEOs in South America are experienced group leaders, with a broad knowledge base of the region’s history, cultures, and wildlife.
All of our overland adventure vehicle (OAV) drivers are experienced in the routes travelled, and highly skilled in dealing with different terrains. Cooks will organize and lead the meal preparation, and have experience in cooking a variety of local and international dishes for large groups.
We also use local guides for some included activities where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting.
How large will the group be?
Max 24, Avg. 16
What meals are included in this trip?
24 breakfasts, 22 lunches, 22 dinners
What are the meals like on this trip?
Most of the meals on this tour are included in the tour price. When a meal is not included, this is because there are often many options available - we would like to give you the opportunity to explore a bit and test the local cuisine yourself. In these cases, your CEO will be able to suggest some good local restaurants or options for you to choose from.
All included meals will be prepared from fresh local produce. Breakfasts will generally consist of breads and cereals, if time allows a warm breakfast may be prepared. Many lunches will be provided en-route and will be light meals such as sandwiches and/or salads. All evening meals will be freshly-prepared hot meals, and will consist of a variety of continental and local dishes.
The CEO/Driver will organize the meal preparation and lead the way here, but will prepare a duty schedule for ensuring a fair, rotating participation from you and your group members in the meal preparation and dish washing duties.
Vegetarian meals and other dietary requirements need to be specified prior to arrival. Please note all bottled drinking water will be at your own expense.
What are the modes of transportation on my trip?
Lando (overland adventure vehicle), ferry, walking
What transportation will we take on this trip?
This trip is done on a 26 seat overland vehicle named the Lando, which allows the entire group, including your CEO, to travel together, and sits higher, which is great to enjoy the scenic landscape.
Here’s a quick look at the unique features of the well-equipped G Adventures overland adventure vehicle (OAV):
- Storage for your main luggage is accessible from inside the vehicle
- Day packs can be stored at your feet or on the luggage shelf above
- Onboard safety box for valuables
- Front viewing windows and large sliding windows, both great for landscape viewing
- Reclining seats
- Fully equipped mobile kitchen
- Access to a large tank of drinking water
- Air-conditioning
- Charging station, a mix of North American and European plugs
- USB charging ports for every traveller at their seat
Please note that our Landos do not have on-board bathrooms.
This is not a physically demanding journey; however, travelling can be difficult, with long drives and poor road conditions at times. Please take note of the travel times and distances in the above itinerary, and consider that this is often on poor quality, bumpy roads. Despite this, most clients feel that the diversity of the South American landscape, culture and wildlife are all well worth the experience.
Is there an extra cost for travelling solo?
We believe solo travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and solo travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.
Where will we stay during the trip?
Camping (19 nts), Hostels and simple hotels (multi-share, 6 nts)
Will I get my own room?
Please note that if you have booked the "My Own Room/Tent" option for this tour, you will receive your own single tent for all night stops when camping.
Do any exceptions apply to Rooming or “My Own Room” on my tour?
Nights 1-2: Ushuaia, Night 3: Punta Arenas, Nights 17-18: Puerto Varas, Night 25: Santiago
What kind of accommodation can I expect on this trip?
Camping in South America is truly an adventure. You will be able to get off the beaten track to get a first-hand experience of the beautiful nature. While camping, we stay at designated campsites and outside towns. Campsite facilities can be basic in certain places.
The camps have flush toilets (with some exceptions). Additionally, warm water might be available, but it is not guaranteed to always be warm when you take your shower; the warm water may be used up by others who also use the camp. We usually set-up camp within close proximity to the toilet facilities, though occasionally to reach them you may to walk a short distance.
All camping equipment (with the exception of your sleeping bag, sleeping mats, and pillow) is supplied. We supply dome tents and assembly/disassembly will take you only 5 minutes. They are good quality, durable, industry-standard 2-person tents. Please note that most adults will not be able to fully stand up inside the tents, though most travellers find these more than adequate.
We travel with our own portable camp chairs with a comfortable back-rest, and we utilize our own cooking equipment to provide the group good quality camp meals.
Camps are open to the natural environment – care must be taken, especially at night, when a torch/flashlight is recommended when walking around the camp area.
Despite the challenge that a few days “roughing it” may pose to some, the experience of being that close to nature, camping under the stars is not just gratifying but ultimately an experience of a lifetime.
Please be note that where we use multi-share accommodations, rooming requests of any kind cannot be taken. For private accommodation please see tours in our Classic Travel Style.
What are the joining instructions?
For details of your joining hotel please refer to your tour voucher, G Account, the G Adventures App or contact your travel agent.
If you would like to book an airport Arrival transfer for your tour, please contact our Sales Team or your Travel Agent in advance of travel.
If you have paid in advance for an arrival transfer, a G Adventures representative will be at the airport to meet you. There is only one exit for international flights. If for any reason you are not met at the airport, please call our local emergency number. If you are unable to make contact for whatever reason, please make your way to the joining point hotel via taxi.
Please note that day 1 is an arrival day and no activities have been planned on this day.
Upon arrival to your Joining Hotel (note that check-in time will be in the afternoon), look for a note or bulletin board in the reception with a note from your CEO. This note will give the details of your Welcome Meeting on day 1 (usually between 5pm and 7pm), where you will get a chance to meet your CEO and other travellers, as well as learn more about how the tour will run. If you don’t see a note, please ask reception for details!
If you are arriving later and will miss the Welcome Meeting, your CEO will leave a note at reception for you with any information you may need, and with morning instructions for the next day.
Please make sure to keep the stamped immigrations receipt you receive when you arrive into Chile. This receipt is required when leaving Chile.
What happens if I experience problems when arriving?
We don't expect any problems, and nor should you, but if for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, please refer to the emergency contact details provided in this dossier and contact us as soon as possible. If you have a pre-booked transfer, and you 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. Please apply to your travel agent on your return for a refund of the transfer cost if this occurs.
Who should I contact in case of an emergency?
Should you need to contact us during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call either the G Adventures Local Representative (if one is listed below) or our G Adventures Local Office. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information, so they may return your call and assist you as soon as possible.
AIRPORT TRANSFER
If you have purchased an arrival through G Adventures, please note that:
Your arrival transfer has been arranged based on flight information provided to us. If you are advised of a flight schedule change or flight cancellation within 48 hours of your scheduled arrival time, please call the emergency contact number to advise of your new arrival flight information. If you do not, we will not be able to rearrange your arrival transfer and you will need to make your own way to the starting hotel at your own expense. If your arrival transfer does not arrive within 30 minutes after you have exited the arrivals area please take a taxi to your start point hotel.
EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS
G Adventures Office Lima, Peru.
During office hours (Weekdays, 9-6pm Local Time): +51 1 241 1650
After hours Emergency number: +51 99 758 2712 (WhatsApp Available)
What should be on my packing list?
Additional Items:
• Sleeping bag (required)
• Sleeping Mat (or thermarest with repair kit)
Cold Weather:
• Long-sleeved shirts or sweater
• Scarf
• Warm gloves
• Warm hat
• Warm layers
• Warm waterproof jacket
Documents:
• Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)
• Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)
• Passport (required) (With photocopies)
• Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)
• Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)
Essentials:
• Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)
• Binoculars (optional)
• Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)
• Cash, credit and debit cards
• Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)
• Ear plugs
• First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)
• Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)
• Fleece top/sweater
• Footwear
• Hat
• Headphones (Noise-cancelling recommended)
• Locks for bags
• Long pants/jeans
• Moneybelt
• Outlet adapter
• Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)
• Reusable water bottle
• Shirts/t-shirts
• Sleepwear
• Small travel towel
• Sunglasses
• Swimwear
• Watch and alarm clock
• Waterproof backpack cover
• Windproof rain jacket
Health & Safety:
• Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)
• Hand sanitizer
• Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)
Warm Weather:
• Sandals/flip-flops
• Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)
• Sturdy water shoes/sandals
• Sun hat/bandana
• Swimwear
When can I do my laundry on this trip?
Travellers can do their own laundry at the campsites where we stay. We recommend bringing some eco-friendly soap with you on tour, as well as some clothes pegs to do your own washing. Cities are also a good place to find laundry services, always keeping in mind operating hours and whether express service is available.
What the visas and entry requirements for my trip?
All countries require a valid passport (with a minimum 6 months validity). Contact your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements, or see your travel agent. It is your own responsibility to have the correct travel documentation. Visa requirements for your trip will vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. We keep the following information up to date as far as possible, but rules do change and sometimes without warning. While we provide the following information in good faith, it is vital that you check the information yourself and understand that you are fully responsible for your own visa requirements.
Visa information specific to your destination and nationality can be found in our Important Pre-Departure Information page here
How much spending money do I need for my trip?
Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.
What should I know about currency, credit cards, and exchanging money while on this tour?
Credit cards and debit cards are very useful for cash advances. Visa cards are the most widely accepted cards. While ATMs are widely available, there are no guarantees that your credit or debit cards will actually work in Latin America. Check with your bank.
You should be aware that to purchase products or services on a credit card a fee of 5%-10% usually applies.
Do not rely on credit or debit cards as your only source of money, a combination of US dollar cash and cards is best. Please bear in mind that cost of living in the southern cone countries (Argentina, Brazil, Chile) is much higher than the rest of South America, and more comparable with Europe. Always take more rather than less, as you don't want to spoil the trip by constantly feeling short of funds.
We recommend bringing USD in cash for the Argentinean portion of this tour as it is easier than using a credit card or withdrawing ARS from an ATM. USD currency is accepted in travel agencies for booking optional activities.
We do not recommend bringing travellers cheques as they are very difficult to change in country.
CURRENCY EXCHANGE TIP: Please be advised that slightly torn notes, notes that have been heavily marked or are faded may be difficult to exchange. It is best to bring notes in fairly good condition.
As currency exchange rates can fluctuate often we ask that you refer to the following website for approximate daily exchange rates: www.xe.comge rates can fluctuate often we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com
Do I need to pay a departure tax?
Most airlines include departure tax in the cost of the ticket. Please check with the airline with which you are travelling.
Should I be tipping on my trip?
It is customary in Latin America to tip service providers such as waiters, at approximately 10%, depending on the service. Tipping is an expected - though not compulsory - component of your tour program and an expression of satisfaction with the persons who have assisted you on your tour. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. There are several times during the trip where there is opportunity to tip the local guides or drivers we use. Recommendations for tipping drivers and local guides would range from $5-10 USD per day depending on the quality and length of the service; ask your CEO for specific recommendations based on the circumstances and culture.
What activities are optional on this trip?
Parque Nacional Tierra del Fuego
- Tierra del Fuego National Park Visit (30USD per person)
Ushuaia
- The Maritime Museum and Prison at the End of the World Museum (36USD per person)
- Beagle Channel Cruise to Isla Martillo (125USD per person)
Perito Moreno Glacier
- Perito Moreno Glacier Boat Tour (80USD per person)
Coyhaique
- Marble Caves Excursion (90 per person)
Isla Chiloé
- Chiloé Island Excursion (180USD per person)
Volcán Osorno
- Osorno Volcano Day Hike (161USD per person)
Puerto Varas
- Paso Desolacion Trek (161USD per person)
Pucón
- Whitewater Rafting Pucon (35000-28000CLP per person)
- Guided Huerquehue Park Visit (55000CLP per person)
- Volcan Villarica Hike (100000CLP per person)
Are there any health considerations I should know before travelling?
Please note inoculations may be required for the country visited. It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up to date medical travel information well before departure.
You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. We recommend that you carry a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers / antibacterial wipes as well as any personal medical requirements. Please be aware that quite often we are in remote areas and away from medical facilities, and for legal reasons our leaders are prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache tablets, antibiotics, etc. When selecting your trip please carefully read the brochure and itinerary and assess your ability to cope with our style of travel. Please refer to the Physical ratings for trip specific information. G Adventures reserves the right to exclude any traveller from all or part of a trip without refund if in the reasonable opinion of our CEO they are unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group.
What do I need to know to about safety and security on my trip?
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 jewelery 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 deemed necessary, due to safety concerns. Your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) 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 and explore at your leisure. While your CEO 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. Although the cities visited on tour are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering throughout any major city at night. It is our recommendation to stay in small groups and to take taxis to and from restaurants, or during night time excursions.
Water based activities have an element of danger and excitement built into them. We recommend only participating in water based activities when accompanied by a guide(s). We make every reasonable effort to ensure the fun and adventurous element of any water based activities (in countries with varying degrees of operating standards), have a balanced approach to safety. It is our policy not to allow our CEOs to make arrangements on your behalf for water based activities that are not accompanied by guide(s).
Swimming, including snorkeling, is always at your own risk. Read more about travel safety for ways to further enhance your personal safety while traveling.
What rules should I know before joining this trip?
Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any 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 our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our CEOs have the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they utilize the services of paid sex workers, in any capacity.
Is travel insurance required for my trip?
Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy we require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency evacuation and repatriation. A minimum coverage of USD200,000 is required. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. Some tours include adventure activities that require extra coverage (e.g. crampon use); please review your itinerary and make sure that you are covered for all included activities. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
What is Planeterra?
Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization committed to turning travel into impact by helping local communities earn an income from tourism. Planeterra connects underserved local communities to the benefits of tourism by developing and supporting small community-owned businesses. These businesses support Indigenous people, empower women, grant youth access to employment opportunities, and protect the environment. Planeterra also works to ensure these businesses have a thriving customer base by integrating their projects into G Adventures’ itineraries globally.
G Adventures is Planeterra’s largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs, so 100% of your donation will bring opportunity to people in need.
G Adventures Dollar-a-day Program - Make Every Day Count - Turn your travel into impact with Planeterra Foundation.
Did you know? Most communities around the world do not benefit from tourism. Give back to the places you visit on your travels by creating opportunities for local people to earn an income, and protect the environment.
Make every day count by donating $1/day for the length of your trip, and join us in empowering the communities you will visit when you travel. 100% of your donation goes directly to Planeterra projects.
Does G Adventures have an email newsletter I can subscribe to?
Our adventure travel e-newsletter is full of travel news, trip information, interesting stories and contests. To avoid missing out on special offers and updates from G Adventures, subscribe at www.gadventures.com/newsletters/
Stay current on how our company invests in our global community through our foundation – Planeterra. Sign up for Planeterra's monthly news to learn more about how to give back and support the people and places we love to visit.
How old must I be to join this trip?
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
Are international flights included in this trip?
No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour.
However, on some combo tours travelling between two different countries, international flights are included as part of the itinerary and price of the tour. Please speak to your GCO or booking agent for further details.
In addition, check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.
What should LGBTQ+ travellers know about safety and travel considerations on this trip?
The safety and well-being of all of our travelers is a priority at G Adventures and that includes our travelers who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community. We recognize that there are specific concerns and questions you may have about your adventure in terms of safety and security. We encourage you to visit our LGBTQ+ page for useful resources to ensure you feel safe and comfortable throughout the duration of your trip. The Equaldex tool linked on this page can be of particular help when deciding where you may want to visit next.