Best of Argentina & Chile + Rio & Iguazu Falls

Accommodation in Santiago

Plaza San Francisco

Included

           

Llama Travel Customer Rating

Overall

85%

85%

Standard Hotel: Hotel Plaza San Francisco is situated in the heart of Santiago, within walking distance of the city’s main tourist attractions. There are 146 rooms, each providing an en-suite bathroom and various other amenities. The hotel has an on-site restaurant and bar, a gym and heated pool.

Why stay here: This is a comfortable hotel in a nice location, which offers all standard amenities.

Hotel Facilities

• Wifi
• Restaurant and bar
• Fitness centre and heated pool
• 24 hour room service
• All rooms have a television, mini-bar wifi and air-conditioning

About the room
The rooms are spacious, with dark wood furniture and double beds. There is a mini bar, air-con, wifi and cable TV in all rooms.

Room types available
standard rooms

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Hotel Cumbres Lastarria

£60
(£60 Single Supplement)

           

Llama Travel Customer Rating

Overall

81%

81%

Superior Hotel: Cumbres Lastarria is a 70 room boutique hotel situated in the bohemian Lastarria neighborhood of Santiago. The hotel is intimate with personalised service, and boasts good amenities such as a fitness centre and the 8th floor restaurant. En-suite rooms are tastefully decorated.

Why stay here: The hotel has a good location in a lovely area, and the rooms are thoughtfully decorated.

Hotel Facilities
• En-suite rooms with safes and tea & coffee stations
• Outdoor pool
• Fitness centre
• restaurant

About the room
Rooms are large and uncluttered with en-suite bathrooms, double beds, tea and coffee machines and safety deposit boxes. All rooms also have flat screen TVs, wifi, air-con and a mini bar.

Room types available
Standard rooms

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Accommodation in Puerto Natales

Hotel Remota

Included

                 

Llama Travel Customer Rating

Overall

74%

74%

Superior Hotel: A very comfortable, modern hotel beautifully located on the Last Hope Sound, with a restaurant, spa, swimming pool and jacuzzi. Rooms are spacious with en-suite bathrooms and fantastic panoramic views.

Why stay here? Stay here for the beautiful views over Last Hope Sound, the excellent facilities and spacious interior which really gives a sense of the vast expanses of Patagonia. This is a very special place in which to stay.

Hotel facilities

• WiFi is available in public areas and is free of charge.

• There is a restaurant, a bar/lounge, a poolside bar, a shared TV lounge and various other seating areas. There is also a spa and sauna, an indoor heated pool and open-air jacuzzis.

• The hotel offers room service, a 24-hour front desk, a tour information desk, a wake-up call service, luggage storage and laundry facilities.

About the room

All rooms have heating, a telephone, a safety deposit box, a hair dryer and en-suite bathrooms. Please note that rooms have no TV and no WiFi.

Room types available

Standard

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Accommodation in Torres del Paine

Hotel Rio Serrano

Included

                             

Llama Travel Customer Rating

Overall

86%

86%

Standard Hotel: Located just across the River Serrano from the national park, this hotel has magnificent views towards the Paine Massif. There is a restaurant and bar, and the rooms are comfortable, with heating and good en-suite facilities. You can arrange trekking, horse riding, mountain biking and kayaking excursions from the hotel, as well as tours of the park and the glaciers by minivan. The standard rooms look out on the hill behind the hotel. The superior rooms are more spacious and have wonderful views across the river to the Paine Massif. Standard Plus rooms are used on some occasions. These are larger than standard rooms, and face towards the Paine Massif, but are on the fourth floor (the lift only goes to the third floor, so it is necessary to walk up one floor) and there are Velux windows in the sloping roof. 

Why stay here? This is one of the most comfortable hotels in the Torres del Paine area, located just outside of the national park but still benefitting from wonderful scenery. The hotel can arrange a range of excursions, allowing you to visit the parts of the national park which most appeal to you.

Hotel facilities

• WiFi is available in public areas and is free of charge.

• There is a restaurant, a bar, a shared TV lounge, and various other lounges and seating areas.

• The hotel offers room service, a 24-hour front desk, a tour information desk, a wake-up call service, luggage storage and laundry facilities.

About the room

All rooms are soundproofed and have heating, a telephone, a safety deposit box, a mini bar, a hair dryer and en-suite bathrooms. Please note that rooms have no TV and no WiFi.

Room types available

Standard rooms (hill-facing)

Standard Plus rooms (facing the Paine Massif with Velux windows. It is necessary to walk up floor to access Standard Plus rooms)

Superior room (facing the Paine Massif)

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Accommodation in El Calafate

Calafate Parque Hotel

Included

             

Llama Travel Customer Rating

Overall

72%

72%

Standard Hotel: The Calafate Parque Hotel is a 50-room hotel, offering a welcoming atmosphere with good amenities. All rooms are en-suite with heating, wifi and safes. The hotel has an on-site bar and restaurant, as well as a gym and spa.

Why stay here: This hotel offers good value for money, and boasts a great location a stone's throw from the centre of El Calafate with it's shops and restaurants.   

Hotel facilities

• Wifi is available throughout the hotel
• Restaurant and bar, as well as a cosy lounge area
• Gym & spa, with a sauna and massage room

About the room

All rooms are en-suite with down-to-earth décor. There is a safety deposit box, minibar, tv, and wifi in each room. Room service is available.

Room types available

Standard room

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Hotel Xelena

£225
(£225 Single Supplement)

               

Superior Hotel: This 71-room hotel is located on the shore of Lake Argentino just outside of the town of El Calafate. There is a heated indoor-and-outdoor pool, spa, gym, sauna, restaurant and bar. The spacious rooms are well appointed with en-suite bathrooms, and all have views over the lake.

Why stay here? The views from this hotel are wonderful, and you can sometimes watch icebergs float across Lake Argentino.

Hotel facilities

• WiFi is available in public areas and is free of charge.

• There is a restaurant, a bar, a lounge, a snack bar, an arcade/game room, heated indoor and outdoor pools, a gym, sauna, spa and jacuzzi. There is also a gift shop/news stand.

• The hotel offers room service, a 24-hour front desk, a tour information desk and laundry facilities.

About the room

All rooms have heating, WiFi, a TV, a safety deposit box, a mini bar, a hair dryer and en-suite bathrooms. Rooms also have seating areas with balconies overlooking the garden.

Room types available

Standard room

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Accommodation in Buenos Aires

NH Lancaster, Buenos Aires

Included

               

Standard Hotel: This well-located hotel in central Buenos Aires has a stylish interior, a restaurant, bar, small gym and sauna. The modern rooms have air conditioning, WiFi and en-suite bathrooms.

Why stay here? The main draw for this hotel is its location in the heart of Buenos Aires, with numerous popular attractions within a short walking distance.

Hotel Facilities

• WiFi is available in public areas and is free of charge.

• There is a restaurant, a bar/lobby, a small gym and a sauna.

• The hotel offers room service, a 24-hour front desk, a tour information desk, luggage storage and laundry facilities.

About the room

All rooms are soundproofed and have air conditioning, a TV, a telephone, a coffee/tea maker, a mini bar, a safety deposit box, a hair dryer and en-suite bathrooms.

Room types available

Superior room

This is our standard hotel for departures from November 2024

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Sofitel Buenos Aires Recoleta

£150
(£150 Single Supplement)

               

Llama Travel Customer Rating

Overall

87%

87%

Superior hotel: In the exclusive La Recoleta area, a stylish hotel with a heated indoor pool, gym, spa, bar, restaurant and gardens. Well appointed rooms with air conditioning, WiFi and en-suite bathrooms.

Why stay here? The Sofitel Buenos Aires Recoleta boasts numerous superior services as well as an on-site patisserie promising delicious fresh breakfasts, and a pretty outdoor area.

Hotel facilities

• WiFi is available in public areas and is free of charge.

• There is a restaurant, a bar, a lounge, a gym, a spa and heated indoor pool and gardens.

• The hotel offers room service, a 24-hour front desk, a tour information desk, luggage storage, currency exchange and laundry facilities.

About the room

All rooms are soundproofed and have air conditioning, WiFi, a TV, a telephone, a coffee/tea maker, a mini bar, a safety deposit box, a hair dryer and en-suite bathrooms.

Room types available

Deluxe room

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Accommodation in Iguazu Falls

Mercure Hotel Iguazu

Included

                 

Llama Travel Customer Rating

Overall

85%

85%

Standard Hotel: This 100-room hotel is located amidst jungle foliage, just 20 minutes from the Puerto Iguazu airport. It provides excellent amenities and modern facilities which embrace the natural setting. Rooms boast large windows, private balconies, en-suite bathrooms and air-conditioning, while there is also a gym, spa, restaurant, bar, and pool set in a luscious garden.

Why stay here?  The hotel has excellent facilities, light, comfortable rooms and the setting amidst the jungle is relaxing but easily accessible.

Hotel facilities

• Restaurant and bar

• Pool, fitness centre and spa

• Wi-fi and 24-hour reception

About the room

All rooms are light with private balconies and en-suite bathrooms. There is a safe, wifi, minibar, air conditioning and cable television.

Room types available 

Standard room

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Loi Suites

£120
(£120 Single Supplement)

               

Llama Travel Customer Rating

Overall

81%

81%

Superior Hotel: A beautiful hotel surrounded by subtropical jungle, a great location just 15 minutes from the Iguazu falls. There is a spa, sauna, indoor and outdoor swimming pools and a lounge area. The air conditioned en-suite rooms are comfortable, and have WiFi.

Why stay here?  We love how this hotel is designed around its jungle surroundings; with connecting bridges and tree trunks incorporated into the buildings. The pool area is a really peaceful place to relax with lots of comfortable sun loungers.

Hotel facilities

• WiFi is available in public areas and is free of charge.

• There is a restaurant, a bar, a snack deli, a lounge, a spa and sauna, two open air pools, a garden and outdoor terrace areas.

• The hotel offers room service, a 24-hour front desk, a tour information desk, luggage storage and laundry facilities.

About the room

All the rooms have air conditioning, WiFi, a TV, a telephone, a mini bar, a safety deposit box, a hair dryer and en-suite bathrooms.

Room types available

Studio junior deck

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Hotel Melia Iguazu

£300
(£300 Single Supplement)

                           

Llama Travel Customer Rating

Overall

95%

95%

Superior Hotel: This 176-room hotel is located in the Iguazu Falls National Park itself, with views of the falls. This hotel has beautiful gardens, a swimming pool, gym, spa treatments, restaurant and bar. The comfortable rooms are well appointed with air conditioning and en-suite bathrooms. There is WiFi available throughout the hotel for a fee. Standard rooms have a jungle view; falls view rooms are available for a supplement.

Why stay here? This hotel has one of the best locations in all of Latin America. The rooms are comfortable, and it is very easy to visit the falls.

Hotel facilities

• WiFi is available in public areas and is free of charge.

• There is a restaurant, a bar with outdoor seating areas, a gym, a spa and whirlpool jacuzzi, an outdoor pool with sundecks and gardens with various seating areas.

• The hotel offers room service, a 24-hour front desk, a tour information desk, luggage storage, a wakeup call service and laundry facilities. There are also shops on site and the hotel offers currency exchange.

About the room

All the rooms have air conditioning, WiFi for a fee, a TV, a telephone, a mini bar, a safety deposit box, a hair dryer and en-suite bathrooms.

Room types available

Standard jungle view (falls view also possible)

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Accommodation in Rio de Janeiro

Novotel Rio Leme

Included

           

Llama Travel Customer Rating

Overall

62%

62%

Standard Hotel: This 274-room hotel is located at the quieter end of Copacabana, next to the Sugarloaf Mountain, the Novotel Rio Leme offers sophisticated accommodation in one of Rio’s most tranquil neighbourhoods. The hotel is set just one block back from the beach and has a rooftop pool and terrace with sun loungers overlooking the ocean.

Why stay here:  The hotel enjoys a great setting right at the end of Copacabana Beach and close to Sugarloaf Mountain,  just steps from the ocean as well as restaurants, outdoor cafes and the colourful kiosks of Copacabana.

Hotel facilities

• There is a rooftop swimming pool, fitness centre, restaurant and bar.

• Free WiFi is available throughout the hotel.

• The hotel offers daily housekeeping, concierge service, 24-hour front desk, room service and tour desk.

About the room

Rooms are  fairly small but modern, with en-suite bathrooms and a city view. All rooms have a TV, air conditioning, telephone, desk and safety deposit box.

Room types available

Superior room

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Windsor California Hotel

£105
(£105 Single Supplement)

             

Llama Travel Customer Rating

Overall

86%

86%

Service

88%

88%

Location

94%

94%

Superior Hotel: Located on the seafront of Copacabana Beach, Windsor California Hotel enjoys a prime location in Rio de Janeiro, 15 minutes from the Sugar Loaf Mountain and Christ the Redeemer. The hotel overlooks the ocean and has facilities such as a swimming pool, fitness centre, restaurant, spa and bar.

Why stay here: The hotel is in a great location and offers an extensive wellness area including a pool, spa lounge, steam room, hammam, fitness centre and sauna.

Hotel facilities

• A spa with steam room, hammam, swimming pool, fitness centre and sauna.

• Prime beachfront location within walking distance from Rio’s main beaches.

• Bar, restaurant and contemporary features.

About the room

Rooms have air-conditioning, private bathroom, flat-screen TV and towels.

Room types available

Standard room

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Extensions

Colonial Paraty

from £529

4 days Extension

Paraty is a small, well-preserved colonial town located a four hour drive away from Rio de Janeiro, and this three-night extension gives you plenty of free time to get to know it. The journey there follows the vibrant, green Emerald Coast, and once there you will feel right at home. The town itself is extremely picturesque with pretty buildings, cobbled streets and a lovely bay, with boats bobbing on the water. There are pretty beaches within walking distance, or you could take a ride on a schooner boat to the beaches further afield. The water is warm and clear, perfect for swimming and snorkelling. This area is also brimming with history, as you will discover on your explorations.

Day 1 Paraty Take a four hour transfer along the beautiful Emerald Coast from Rio to Paraty.

Day 2 Paraty Make your way to the port in the morning, then take a schooner boat to the archipelago of forested islands, crystalline seas and white sandy beaches around the Emerald Coast. Make three island stops to sunbathe, snorkel and have in the beautiful bays.

Day 3 Paraty A free day in Paraty. Wander the streets and relax in a cafe, visit the nearby beaches or perhaps travel inland to the forests and waterfalls found there, visiting the Gold Trail by jeep.

Day 4 Take a four hour transfer back to Rio to catch your flight back to the UK.

Day 5 Arrival in the UK

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Pantanal Wetlands

from £2099

5 days Extension

This three-night extension has visitors immersed in the Pantanal Wetlands, exploring one of the world’s most biodiverse regions and learning about the plants and animals that live here. Each day you will head into the wetlands on a series of excursions from the lodge – sometimes by foot, sometimes on horse-back and sometimes by canoe. In between, relax at the lodge taking in the sights and sounds on this magnificent area.

Day 1 Pantanal Fly from Rio to Cuiabá airport, where you are picked up for a three-hour drive into the Pantanal. Pass the small village of Mimoso and travel on a dirt road for the final stretch of the journey, spotting vultures, eagles and rheas. Arrive at the lodge in the evening.

Day 2 Pantanal In the morning, hike on woodland trails and open fields in search of the birds, mammals, reptiles and plants which form the Pantanal ecosystem. Returning to the lodge for lunch, you then take a trip by motorised canoe on the Mutum River to watch wildlife and see a beautiful Pantanal sunset, spotting caimans and giant river otters on the way. See southern caracaras, black-collared hawks, roseate spoonbills, sunbitterns, kingfishers, great kiskadees and trogons. After dinner, take an evening excursion by jeep in search of nocturnal creatures, such as anteaters and armadillos.

Day 3 Pantanal Rise early for a sunrise canoe trip, watching as macaws soar overhead whilst the screaches of the southern screamer pierce the air and caimans look on from the water. Later in the morning, ride on horseback to Sia Mariana Bay, through lush woodland where tropical fruits grow, and across open plains, where horses and white cattle graze in the company of egrets. Relax at the lodge during the hottest hours of the day, before taking to the river to fish for piranhas and other species, with the chance of seeing giant river otters and capybaras playing in the water. Return to the lodge after sunset, where an elusive tapir may be taking advantage of the low light to feed on fruit trees in the grounds.

Day 4 Transfer back to Cuiabá to catch a flight back to Rio.

Day 5 Catch a flight back to the UK.

Day 6 Your flight arrives in the UK.

Hotel in the Pantanal
Pousada Rio Mutum
A peaceful lodge set in seven acres of leafy grounds on the banks of the Mutum River, with an attractive pool area, reading room and map room. The 22 chalet-style rooms offer privacy and are spread across the grounds, which host wildlife including jabiru storks, night monkeys, tapirs, and birds such as chachalacas and cardinals. Each room is comfortably furnished with air conditioning and a ceiling fan, a fridge, en-suite bathroom and private terrace with a hammock. All meals are included and are served in the lodge’s cosy restaurant, featuring typical pantaneiro cuisine. The indoor common areas have WiFi. The pousada includes a full excursion programme, including horse-riding, walking trails, canoe and motorboat rides. The lodge enjoys a privileged position close to the Sia Mariana and Chacorore lakes, whose waters are home to piranhas, giant river otters, capybaras and caimans, and where the calls of hundreds of water birds fill the skies.

If you are interested in adding an extension to the Pantanal Wetlands, please get in touch with us for more details.

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Atacama Desert extension

from £1549

4 days Extension

This extension to the Atacama Desert, the driest desert in the world, offers an incredible contrast to the glaciers of Patagonia. The town of San Pedro de Atacama has been inhabited since the 15th century, and there are numerous archaeological sites in the area. However, it is the natural attractions which are most impressive. The town, with views of the perfect volcanic cone of 5,900 metre-high Licancabur, makes a perfect base for exploring the surrounding desert. Visit the dramatic Valley of the Moon; the incredible Atacama Salt Flats, where the earth and sky merge; and the beautiful El Tatio geysers, at 4,300 metres above sea level.

Itinerary

All excursions are included on this extension. If you stay in the Hotel Altiplanico, the excursions will be as in the itinerary below. If you stay in the Hotel Tierra Atacama, there is a menu of excursions, so you can choose which excursions you would prefer to take. Not all excursions operate every day from the Hotel Tierra Atacama.

Day 1 San Pedro de Atacama Fly from Santiago to Calama and then transfer to San Pedro de Atacama, high in the desert at 2,400 metres above sea level. In the afternoon visit the Valley of the Moon, a dramatic lunar landscape of barren hills and plains. Climb a sand dune to watch the colours of the surrounding mountains change from gold to red as the sun sets (3 nights).

Day 2 San Pedro de Atacama After breakfast, drive to the Atacama Salt Lake, where the salt crystals stretch out for miles and flamingos gather to nest. Drive through the Andes to the beautiful Altiplanic Lagoons of Miscanti and Miñique, stopping on the way to appreciate the panoramic views. At 4,500 metres above sea level, the lagoons are located in a stunning landscape of mountains and volcanoes, with unique flora and fauna. Walk along the lagoon shores before continuing to the town of Socaire for lunch, where a traditional farming lifestyle still thrives.

Day 3 San Pedro de Atacama A 4am start for a 90 minute bumpy drive to the Tatio geysers. At 4,300 metres above sea level, these are some of the highest geysers in the world, and the water and steam jets create an incredible sight in the early morning light. You have breakfast here before visiting the village of Machuca, where ancient llama caravans used to rest. You return to San Pedro in time for lunch and a relaxing afternoon.

Day 4 Santiago A morning transfer to Calama for your flight to Santiago (1 night).

Excursions in the Atacama Desert are taken in English and Spanish-speaking groups and may be with tourists of other nationalities.

If you are interested in adding an extension to the Atacama Desert, please get in touch with us for more details.

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Easter Island extension

from £1699

4 days Extension

Easter Island is the most remote inhabited island in the world, almost 2,200 miles from the coast of Chile. This volcanic island in the South Seas is only 15 miles across at its widest point, but was home to a culture which created over 800 giant stone statues. The largest of these weighs 86 tons. This extension allows you to see the Moai around the island, as well as explore the volcanic craters and relax on the sandy beaches.

Itinerary

Day 1 Easter Island  Take a five hour flight from Santiago to Easter Island (3 nights). You will experience a traditional reception with flower necklaces before transferring to your hotel. You have the rest of the day free to explore the town of Hanga Roa.

Day 2 Easter Island  You drive along the coastal road, stopping to see the moai along the route, before continuing to Ranu Raraku, a volcanic crater which served as a quarry and supplied the stone for about 95% of the island’s moai. Almost 400 Moai are still found in this area. You climb the volcano to the restored Ahu Tongariki, with 15 moai, including the largest on the island. After a packed lunch, continue to Anakena, a white coral sandy beach with coconut palms, where you can swim in the Pacific. You return to your hotel in the late afternoon.

Day 3 Easter Island  Drive to the Rano Kau volcano, with the ceremonial centre of Orongo. This was the centre of the birdman cult, where an annual race was held to bring back the first sooty tern egg from a nearby islet. There are also many petroglyphs here. In the afternoon, visit Ahu Akivi, an unusual site as it is not on the coast, and the 7 moai face the ocean, not inland.

Day 4 Santiago  Transfer to the airport for your flight back to Santiago (1 night).

Excursions on Easter Island are taken in English and Spanish-speaking groups and may be with tourists of other nationalities. Additional nights on Easter Island are possible. Please ask us for details.

 

Hotels on Easter Island

Hotel Puku Vai

In the town of Hanga Roa, this hotel has pleasant gardens with a swimming pool, a restaurant and bar. The rooms are simple and have en-suite bathrooms.

If you are interested in adding an extension to Easter Island, please get in touch with us for more details.

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2025

• Feb 2025 From £5449 £4949 Show departures

  Start date	Return date	Price	Single supplement
  Thu 06 Feb	Tue 25 Feb	Thu 06 Feb - Tue 25 Feb	Price £5449 SAVE £500 £4949	Single supplement Price £1800	SOLD OUT
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• Mar 2025 From £5349 £4849 Show departures

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  Thu 13 Mar	Tue 01 Apr	Thu 13 Mar - Tue 01 Apr	Price £5399 SAVE £500 £4899	Single supplement Price £1800	Book Now
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• Oct 2025 From £5399 £4899 Show departures

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  Thu 30 Oct	Tue 18 Nov	Thu 30 Oct - Tue 18 Nov	Price £5399 SAVE £500 £4899	Single supplement Price £1800	Book Now

• Nov 2025 From £5399 £4899 Show departures

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2026

• Jan 2026 From £5699 £5199 Show departures

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• Feb 2026 From £5679 £5179 Show departures

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• Mar 2026 From £5549 £5049 Show departures

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Holiday Information

About Your Holiday

• Llama Travel Groups

  In many cases, the best way to describe our holidays is flexible tours, so you can choose where to visit by combining different extensions and excursions, and which hotels to stay in. In most cases, you will be with other Llama Travellers, but not necessarily the same people throughout. This allows you to get to know like-minded people, but not have to spend all your time with the same group. If we don't have anyone else taking a particular part of a holiday, we will normally operate this just for you.

  In some cases, we operate more traditional tours, with the same Llama Travel group travelling together for the majority of the holiday, which allows land travel from one location to another, and in this case we may have a minimum number of travellers required to operate the group.

  Excursions are usually taken together with other Llama Travel customers in groups of no more than 18 people. If we have more than 18 booked, we operate two groups. These will usually be in English, although in some places, especially on wildlife excursions, the excursions may be operated by one of our local partners, so you may be with people other than Llama Travel customers and the group may be a mix of English and other languages. In these cases, group sizes can sometimes be larger. If you would like to know the likely situation for your holiday, please ask us and we will be able to check. Transfers may be with more than 18 people.

  We get a wide range of people taking our holidays, with probably the largest group being couples aged in their forties to sixties, or even older. However, we also have a large number of customers in their twenties and thirties, especially for some of the more active holidays. What unites everyone is a sense of curiosity and a desire to discover new cultures, landscapes and wildlife. Although most of our customers travel with friends or family, we also have quite a few single travellers who are happy to mix and match as described above.

  Group Size
  Most holidays can operate with a minimum of 2 passengers, but some holidays have a higher minimum group size. If we have fewer than the minimum number of passengers, we will let you know two months before departure. In this case, we will refund you any monies paid or offer you an alternative option. It may be possible to operate the trip for fewer than 4 passengers for an additional cost.

  Holidays in Europe usually have a minimum group size of 4 passengers.
  Holidays in Namibia or South Africa usually have a minimum group size of 6 passengers.
  Holidays in Kenya usually have a minimum group size of 4 passengers.
  Holidays in Asia usually have a minimum group size of 4 passengers.
  Holidays in Costa Rica and Mexico usually have a minimum group size of 4 passengers.

• What's Included

  Prices listed are per person and based on two persons sharing a room and include all flights from the UK and within destination, service of guides and reps (please note that tips are not included), accommodation and all transfers and excursions listed in the itinerary. Where applicable, entrance fees, taxes and charges are included in our prices at the rates advised to us at the time of preparation. An adjustment will be made to your price if any of these change before your holiday. UK airport taxes are included.

• Financial Protection

  All the flight-inclusive holidays on this website are financially protected by the ATOL scheme. When you pay you will be supplied with an ATOL Certificate. Please ask for it and check to ensure that everything you booked (flights, hotels and other services) is listed on it. Please see our booking conditions for further information or for more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate go to: www.atol.org.uk/ATOLCertificate

  For holidays not including any flights, financial protection is provided through IPP: https://www.llamatravel.com/ipp-protection

Booking Conditions

• Llama Travel Booking Conditions

  Please see our booking conditions page for further information.

How To Book

• Paying for the Holiday

  You can pay your deposit by bank transfer, cheque, standard UK debit card or non-premium UK personal Visa / MasterCard credit card. Balance payments can be made by bank transfer or cheque. We do not accept cards for balance payments. We are unable to accept cash.

• Booking the Holiday

  To book a holiday or discuss your requirements, please call us on 020 7263 3000. We can usually confirm availability immediately, but may need to check with a supplier first.

Before You Go

• Travel Insurance

  Adequate travel insurance is essential. We do not sell or recommend any specific policy, but good medical insurance should cover medical evacuation and repatriation. If you are going to be taking part in any activity, please ensure your policy covers you for this, especially if this involves high-altitude trekking, such as the Inca Trail.

• Visas & Passports

  To issue some tickets, we require passport details and ages when you book. If you subsequently change your passport, please let us know as soon as possible.

  Latin America

  Visas are not required in advance for British citizens for any Llama Travel Latin American destination. For British passports endorsed in any way and all other passports, please ask the appropriate consulate.

  If you are flying via another country, especially the US, you need to comply with the appropriate immigration requirements. Please ask us for details.

  You need a full 10-year passport valid for 6 months after your return to the UK. If you renewed your current passport before the previous one expired, extra months may have been added to its expiry date. Any extra months on your passport over 10 years may not count towards the minimum period needed if you are transiting in Europe.

  There is an entry fee to enter Chile for citizens of Australia, the US, Canada and some other countries which must be paid upon arrival. There is also an entry fee for US and Canadian citizens visiting Argentina, which must be paid in advance online.

  If children are not travelling with both parents, some countries require a letter of consent to enter or depart. Please consult the appropriate consulate.

  Africa

  British nationals can enter Morocco, South Africa, Namibia, and Botswana for a visit of up to 90 days without a visa. For British passports endorsed in any way and all other passports, please ask the appropriate consulate. You need a passport valid for 6 months after your return to the UK. For South Africa, you need a passport with two blank pages.

  British nationals require a visa to enter Zimbabwe for Victoria Falls, which can be purchased upon entry. The Kaza Univisa allows you to cross the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe and also allows for day trips to Botswana (cost is approximately US$50). On occasions, the Zimbabwe border staff may not issue a Kaza Univisa, and you may need to purchase a Zimbabwe visa (single or double entry), which has a slightly higher cost. Citizens from other countries should consult the specific embassy to check entry requirements.

  Currently, no visa is required to visit Namibia, but the Namibian government has announced that it will introduce a visa upon entry in April 2025.

  British nationals to Kenya require an electronic travel authorisation, which must be obtained online in advance. You can apply for this on the eTA website. For more information, see the website of the Kenya High Commission. For British passports endorsed in any way and all other passports, please ask the Kenya consulate. You need a passport with two blank pages

  If children are not travelling with both parents, some countries require a letter of consent to enter or depart. Please consult the appropriate consulate. In South Africa and Namibia, children under 18 must also carry an unabridged birth certificate.

  You need a full 10-year passport valid for 6 months after your return to the UK. If you renewed your current passport before the previous one expired, extra months may have been added to its expiry date. Any extra months on your passport over 10 years may not count towards the minimum period needed if you are transiting in Europe.

  To issue some tickets, we require passport details and ages when you book. If you subsequently change your passport, please let us know as soon as possible.

  Asia & the Middle East

  To visit Jordan, you need a full 10 year passport valid for 6 months after your return to the UK. You will need a visa to enter Jordan. The Jordan visa is included in the price of your holiday. On arrival in Amman our representatives will meet you prior to immigration and this will be provided to you free of charge. For British passports endorsed in any way and all other passports, please ask the Jordanian consulate.

  All visitors to Sri Lanka, including British nationals, require an electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), which must be obtained online in advance, and for which there is a cost. You can apply for single entry and transit visas on the ETA website. For more information, see the website of the Sri Lanka High Commission. For British passports endorsed in any way and all other passports, please ask the Sri Lanka consulate. You need a passport with two blank pages, valid for six months after your return to the UK.

  All visitors to India, including British nationals, require a visa, which can be obtained online in advance, and for which there is a cost. You can apply for single entry and transit visas on the e-visa website. For more information, see the website of the India High Commission. For British passports endorsed in any way and all other passports, please ask the Indian consulate. You need a passport with two blank pages, valid for six months after your return to the UK.

  Visitors from 13 countries, including the UK, can travel to Vietnam visa-free for stays up to 45 days. For stays longer than 45 days, a visa is required at a cost. This can be applied for online on the e-visa website. Stays longer than 90 days are not permitted. You need a full 10-year passport valid for 6 months after your return to the UK. For British passports endorsed in any way and all other passports, please ask the Vietnamese consulate.

  To visit Cambodia, a visa is required at a cost. This can be applied for online on the e-visa website. You need a full 10-year passport valid for 6 months after your return to the UK. For British passports endorsed in any way and all other passports, please ask the Cambodian consulate.

  To visit Laos, a visa is required at a cost. This can be applied for online on the e-visa website. You need a full 10-year passport valid for 6 months after your return to the UK. For British passports endorsed in any way and all other passports, please ask the Laotian consulate.

  If you are arranging a stopover in Singapore, you must complete an electronic SG Arrival Card up to three days before entry into Singapore.

  Europe

  You need a full 10 year passport valid for 6 months after your return to the UK. If you renewed your current passport before the previous one expired, extra months may have been added to its expiry date. Any extra months on your passport over 10 years may not count towards the minimum period needed.

   

• Adventure Activities

  In many destinations, you can arrange adventure activities, either through Llama Travel or through the local operator. If you are interested in taking any of these, please make sure you are covered by your travel insurance.

• Travelling With Children

  Some countries have strict regulations regarding the entry and exit of children under 18 when not travelling with both parents, or if the child has nationality of the country you are visiting. If you are travelling with children who are not entering or leaving the country with both parents, or if the child has nationality of the country you are visiting, please contact the consulate of the country you are visiting to check requirements.

  Countries in Africa have particularly strict requirements regarding children travelling, and in both South Africa and Namibia, children need to carry an unabridged birth certificate. Additionally, in Namibia, adults travelling with children where they are not the biological or legal guardians of those children, should be in possession of an affidavit statement from the child’s parents giving consent for their travel.

  Such requirements do change from time to time, and although we try to keep abreast of such changes and update this information, if you are travelling with children, we suggest you check current requirements carefully.

• Receiving Your Tickets

  You will receive tickets approximately 10 days before departure, along with information on accommodation, transfers and excursions. Our agents in destination will give you final details for hotel and excursions when you arrive. Please check airline tickets carefully in case timings have changed after we issued your confirmation.

• Money

  Cards are widely accepted in most hotel and restaurants, and cash machines are common in most destinations. However, when travelling to remote areas, it is advisable to take cash, as it is difficult to withdraw or change money. Travellers cheques are no longer widely used, so it may be inconvenient to take these.

  It is always recommended to inform your bank that you are travelling abroad and to which countries. This will allow them to authorise money withdrawals from your account when you are away. Some banks say that this is not necessary, however we would still recommend contact with your bank as in some cases people have had difficulty in withdrawing currency.

  More information on the situation regarding money, budgeting and tipping in specific countries is in the country information below.

When Your Are Travelling

• Safety & Security

  Most people who travel to the countries where Llama Travel operates experience no problems on holiday. However, as is the case anywhere in the world, crime can be a problem, especially in large cities. Tourists can appear attractive targets to criminals. To minimise the risk, use common sense. Do not display signs of wealth, such as expensive looking jewellery or cameras. Avoid empty streets, especially on your own. Take a taxi after dark. By taking sensible precautions, you should have a trouble-free holiday.

  Each country has its own standards for health and safety, but these are often not as good as in the UK. We take this into account when selecting hotels and request that they comply with all local regulations, but cannot guarantee that these are equivalent to British standards. Please take reasonable precautions to protect yourselves whilst on holiday, e.g. by locating fire exit routes.

  Please also check the Foreign Office travel advice for the countries you are visiting at www.fco.gov.uk.

• LGBT Travel

  Attitudes towards lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) travellers around the world can be very different from those in the UK.

  In Latin America and Europe, attitudes can sometimes be more conservative than in the UK, but there are not usually problems.

  In some African countries, including Morocco, Zimbabwe and Kenya, same sex relationships are illegal and conservative attitudes prevail. However, hotels and lodges do not discriminate and same sex couples can share rooms. In much of Africa and the Middle East, public displays of affection may attract negative attention, especially with LGBT couples, although the majority of people are friendly to visitors, irrespective of gender and sexual orientation. In South Africa, the authorities have introduced legislation which bans any discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation.

  In most of Asia, attitudes to same sex relationships can be conservative, but there are not usually any problems. In Sri Lanka and Uzbekistan, same sex relationships are illegal, but hotels do not discriminate and same sex couples can share rooms.

  The UK Foreign Office has information LGBT travel on their travel advice for individual countries, found at www.fco.gov.uk.

• Wildlife Risks

  For all wildlife excursions, please always follow the instructions of your guide, both for the animals’ welfare and for your safety. Staff are experienced at dealing with wildlife, but by their nature, excursions involving exposure to wild animals will always carry some risk.

  If you take a safari in Africa, you will be with an experienced guide at all times, who is usually unarmed. Staff are experienced at dealing with wildlife, but by their nature, game drives have exposure to wild animals, and there will always be some risk in this, which you accept by going on holiday. Game drives run according to a schedule, although unexpected delays can occur, which the guide will deal with as quickly and safely as possible. Being in the wilderness means that the environment is unpredictable, so the unexpected can happen, and off-road vehicles can occasionally break down or get stuck in the uneven terrain.

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Health & Fitness

• Vaccinations & Medical Requirements

  Please consult your GP or a travel clinic about health and vaccination requirements. Advice for travellers is available at NaTHNaC  
  

  When travelling, stomach illnesses are not uncommon due to changes in diet. We suggest you only drink bottled water and avoid ice in drinks. If you are unsure if salads and fruit have been washed in purified water, it is best to avoid them.

  If you suffer from a disability or condition and are worried whether this will affect the enjoyment of a holiday, please call us. We will do our best to help. We recommend that you bring any medicines you require from the UK.

  If you have any health problems on holiday, please speak to our local agents or hotel staff. They will arrange for a doctor or hospital if necessary. If you do experience any problems, please seek appropriate medical attention.

  Outside of major cities, medical facilities can be basic, meaning a lengthy transfer if hospital attention is required.

  Latin America

  Yellow fever and / or malaria precautions are recommended for visiting the jungle, Iguazu Falls and some parts of Colombia, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Brazil, Peru and Ecuador. Yellow Fever certificates are sometimes required if you have recently visited a country with an infected area. Children under 6 require proof of vaccination against polio to enter Brazil. Some GPs do not recommend yellow fever vaccinations for travellers over 60 years old. If you are pregnant or planning on becoming pregnant, please speak to your GP about zika. Please seek medical advice before you travel.

  Parts of South America are at high altitude. Most visitors do not suffer major problems. However, shortness of breath is common and we advise you to take things calmly during your first day at altitude. If you suffer from a heart or lung condition, or think that you may suffer due to the altitude, please consult your GP.

  Africa

  Malaria precautions are highly recommended when visiting the Kruger National Park in South Africa, Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, the north of Namibia, including Etosha, Botswana and Kenya. Yellow Fever vaccination is highly recommended for Kenya. Travellers entering many African countries, including South Africa and Kenya Africa, coming from a yellow fever zone must have a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate. Some GPs do not recommend yellow fever vaccinations for travellers over 60 years old.

  Asia

  Malaria tablets are not usually advised when visiting the areas that Llama Travel offers in Japan, India, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Cambodia or Laos, although a low risk exists in south-east Asia, so general precautions are recommended. If you have visited a country with yellow fever recently, you will usually require a valid yellow fever certificate to enter. Please be aware that Shimla in the Himalayas in India is at a moderately high altitude, so we recommend you take things calmly during your first day at altitude. If you suffer from a heart of lung condition, or think you may suffer due to the altitude, please consult your GP.

• Age & Fitness Limitations

  For most of our holidays, age is not a concern. However, a reasonable level of fitness is required, as most holidays require some walking, sometimes on uneven ground. Even relatively mild activities can be strenuous at altitude. High altitude trekking is more strenuous than an equivalent length walk at low altitude.

Getting There

• Departure Airports

  Many airlines offer the option of flying from regional airports in the UK, avoiding the need to make your own way to London. Due to the timing of flights, in some cases this may involve an overnight stop in London or another intermediate airport. There is usually a supplement for regional departures. Please note that most of our flights depart from London.

• Flight Upgrades

  You can upgrade to business class or premium economy on most airlines. Call us for prices for the route and airline you are interested in.

  Premium Economy

  Some airlines offer Premium Economy cabins, which provide more comfortable seats which recline further and have more legroom. There are better meals and a bar service.

  Other airlines offer standard economy class seats with extra legroom for an additional cost.

  Business Class

  Many airlines have long-haul business class cabins with seats that convert into full flat beds and often have a privacy screen.

  Business Class within Europe is often similar to economy class seating, but with better meals, and middle seats are often left empty.

• Baggage Allowance

  Most scheduled airlines have a baggage allowance of 23kg per passenger for international flights, but internal flight allowances can be less. Exact limits can be found on airline webpages. Please bear this in mind when packing, as carrying excess baggage will normally incur an expensive additional cost payable at check in. Additionally, certain excursions have a limited baggage allowance. Where this is the case, we will advise you in advance. Llama Travel accepts no responsibility for the delay, loss or damage of luggage.

  There may be additional luggage restrictions for specific countries. In this case, details of this will be in the country information below.

• Selecting your seats on flights

  Many airlines now charge a fee to select your seat prior to checking in for your flight, even when travelling in premium economy or business class. Alternatively, you may choose your preferred seat free of charge when online check-in opens 24 hours prior to departure or at the airport. Please ask us about the options available at time of booking.

  We all want a comfortable journey, particularly on long haul flights. If you would like a seat with some extra leg room or a larger recline please let us know. Airlines have introduced a range of “economy comfort” seats that may be purchased in advance. In some cases, these seats may only be purchased online directly with the airline once Llama Travel has issued your ticket approximately 30 days prior to departure.

  For internal flights, and for connecting flights in Europe, it is usually only possible to select seats when you check-in online or at the airport.

  It may not be possible to always use online check-in systems, especially when using a codeshare flight. On occasion, your preferred seat may be changed by the airline for operational reasons such as a change of aircraft or to facilitate a disabled passenger on the day you fly and as such, Llama Travel cannot guarantee specific seats.

• Breaking up the journey with stopover

  Depending on the route and the airline, if you would like to break your journey to or from your final destination, and add a stopover to your holiday, this may be possible. Please ask us for information.

• Arranging your own flight

  If you are interested in arranging your own international flights, this is sometimes possible. Please ask us for details of this and any discount we can arrange for removing international flights. Please do not book your flights until we have reconfirmed all services with our suppliers and you have checked the confirmation invoice.

• Visa Requirements if transiting in another country, especially the US

  All people transiting in a third country need to make sure they comply with any immigration requirements for that country.

  This is especially the case when in transit in the US when flying to Latin America. In this case, you must comply with US immigration requirements. It is your responsibility to ensure that you comply with these requirements before you travel. Failure to do so may result in you being denied boarding on your flight to the US and, at best, a last-minute and probably expensive re-routing avoiding the US. It is important, therefore, that you follow these procedures carefully.

  If your flight to Latin America involves a stop in the US, you will be subject to US immigration control upon entry to the US. If you qualify for the US Visa Waiver Program, you are able to avoid the need to apply for a visa, but still need to enter your details online on the US State Department website. If you do not qualify for the US Visa Waiver Program, you must apply in person at a US embassy for a US visa. Please make sure that you do this in good time.

  If you are a UK citizen and have a UK passport, you may qualify for visa-free travel. You will require a machine readable passport to qualify for the ESTA Visa Waiver Program (so you do not require a visa to enter the US). A machine readable passport has the holder's personal details (name, date of birth, nationality and passport number) contained in two lines of text at the bottom of the photo page. This appears as two lines of letters, numbers and chevrons (">>>>>") printed across the long edge of the photo page. It must be also include an integrated circuit chip capable of storing the biographic information from the data page, a digitized photograph and other biometric information.

  Please note, holders of passports indicating that the bearer is a British Subject, a British Dependent Territories Citizen, British Overseas Citizen, British National (Overseas) Citizen or British Protected Person do not qualify for travel without a visa. A passport which states that the holder has Right of Abode or indefinite leave to remain in the UK does not quality for visa-free travel.

  If you have visited certain restricted countries, including Cuba, you may not qualify for visa-free travel.

  If you have been arrested, even if the arrest did not result in a criminal conviction, or if you have a criminal record, you will need a visa.

  If you have any doubts about whether you qualify for the Visa Waiver Program, please check with the US embassy. Full details can be found on the US embassy’s UK website at: http://london.usembassy.gov/vwp3.html

  Many European, Australian and New Zealand passport holders also qualify for the Visa Waiver Program as long as the passport is machine readable and complies with the relevant criteria. Please see the US embassy website for a list of countries which qualify for the Visa Waiver Program. It is important that you check the website of the US Embassy in the country of passport nationality for any further changes before you travel.

  Details of the ESTA Visa Waiver Program can be found on the US State Department website at

  https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov.

  In addition to the Visa Waiver Programme, the US Transportation Security Authority requires anybody flying through the United Sates to supply specific passenger information prior to their international flight.

• Airlines

  Air fares vary from date to date and between airlines. Our holidays are scheduled to use the most advantageous air fare. You can choose which airline you prefer, we will let you know if a supplement is payable. Levels of onboard service and facilities, such as entertainment, vary by airline and route. Please ask us for details. Flights are sometimes operated by another airline in the appropriate airline alliance.

• Airlines

  Air fares vary from date to date and between airlines. Our holidays are scheduled to use the most advantageous air fare. You can choose which airline you prefer, we will let you know if a supplement is payable. Levels of onboard service and facilities, such as entertainment, vary by airline and route. Please ask us for details. Flights are sometimes operated by another airline in the appropriate airline alliance.

Argentina

Travelling in Argentina

• Budgeting for your stay

  All hotels include breakfast, and other meals are included on some tours and excursions. However, generally, you will need to arrange your own lunches and dinners. We recommend budgeting approximately US$20 – 25 for a meal, although many restaurants have excellent value set lunches for less than this. Hotel restaurants, especially in superior hotels, can be more expensive. Restaurant in more remote areas, including Torres del Paine and Easter Island, are more expensive. Additionally, there are many upmarket restaurants, particularly in Buenos Aires, where you should expect to pay up to US$50 per person, or possibly more.

  Bar prices are similar to the UK and a small bottle of beer usually costs around US$2-3 in a hotel bar.

• Food

  Argentina is well known for its steaks and for meat lovers it is well worth heading to one of the many parrilla restaurants. The food in Buenos Aires is excellent, with a wide range of both national and international cuisine available. Due to the city’s Italian heritage, Buenos Aires also has excellent ice cream. Some of the best places to eat are found in the neighbourhoods of Palermo and Puerto Madero, though there are many good restaurants throughout the city. Argentinians tend to eat quite late, starting around 9 – 10 pm.

  Puerto Iguazú near the Iguazu Falls has a good variety of restaurants. Like most of Argentina, there are a number of places serving good steaks, although the specialty here is the locally caught fresh water fish.

  For its size, El Calafate has a good selection of restaurants serving local as well as international cuisine. The lamb and trout are generally excellent and there are a number of good ice cream and chocolate shops on the main street. Due to the remoteness of the town, food can be expensive.

  Seafood is the most popular type of food in Ushuaia, in particular local king crab. Other Patagonian specialities, such as lamb, and international cuisine is also widely available. Due to the remote location of Ushuaia, food can be expensive.

• Money

  The currency in Argentina is the Peso.                                                                                                                                                                                             

  If you are visiting the Iguazu Falls, you will visit the Brazilian side of the falls. The currency in Brazil is the Real.

  Travellers should take US dollars and not UK sterling, which is not widely accepted in any form. Credit and debit cards (Visa and MasterCard) can be used in many shops and restaurants, and can also be used to withdraw money from cash machines. Not all cash machines work with international cards, so look for the Cirrus or Plus (Visa) symbols. Most banks will only have one cash machine compatible with international cards, and will usually only work with Cirrus or Plus cards, not both. However, the Red Banco 24 Horas machines usually accept most cards. Using a prepaid travel card (which are loaded online and can be used like a credit or debit card when abroad) are often the best way to avoid the fees charged for using your usual cards abroad.

  Please note that it can be difficult to use US dollar notes which have even the smallest tear. When changing US dollars into local currency, always use a reputable place to change: banks, hotels or exchange shops. Do not change money on the street if you can avoid it.

  It is always recommended to inform your bank that you are travelling abroad and to which countries. This will allow them to authorise money withdrawals on your account when you are away. Some banks say that this is not necessary; however we would still recommend contact with your bank as in some cases people have had difficulty in withdrawing currency.

• Tipping

  If you receive good service, you may want to leave a tip. This is completely at your discretion. For general excursions, if you want to tip guides, US$2 – 4 per person per day is usual if you are in a group. Approximately US$1 is usual for drivers or transfer staff. 10% is usual in restaurants. Please give any tips directly to the person you would like to tip to ensure that they get it.

• What to pack - Argentina

  Daytime temperatures in Buenos Aires from October to May are around 18°C - 30°C and night-time temperatures are around 10°C - 20°C. Daytime temperatures in El Calafate in Patagonia from October to April are around 10°C- 18°C and night-time temperatures are from freezing to 7°C.

  Due to the variations in weather, we recommend taking a variety of clothing, suitable for warm and cold weather. Rain is possible throughout the year, especially in Buenos Aires, so waterproofs are also recommended.

  Electricity in Argentina is 220V, and plugs are either of the European two-pin type or Australian flat 3-pin type. We recommend taking a universal adaptor.

  It is a legal requirement to carry identity documentation when in Argentina and Brazil (when visiting Iguazú Falls). Therefore, having a copy of your passport with you at all times is recommended.

  Please bring any medication you may require from the UK.

Brazil

Travelling in Brazil

• What to pack - Brazil

  Light-weight, warm weather clothing is suitable for travelling in Brazil. Some areas, especially the Pantanal and Amazon regions, have very high humidity. On the Atlantic coast, during the winter months from June to August, night-time temperatures can be cooler and long-sleeved clothing is recommended. Long-sleeved, breathable clothing and closed shoes are necessary for visiting the Amazon and the Pantanal. Sun hats, sunglasses and sun protection cream are also recommended.

  Rain showers are possible throughout the year in all destinations, so waterproofs are recommended.

  Electricity in Brazil is 110V. Plugs are of the two round pin type. Some sockets also accept two flat pin plugs. We recommend taking a universal adaptor with relatively long pins, as some sockets are inset into the wall.

  It is a legal requirement to carry identity documentation when in Brazil. Therefore, please carry a photocopy of your passport with you at all times.

  Please bring any medication you may require from the UK.

• Budgeting for your stay

  All hotels include breakfast, and other meals are included on some tours and excursions. However, generally, you will need to arrange your own lunches and dinners. We recommend budgeting approximately US$25 – 30 for a meal, although many restaurants have excellent value set lunches for less than this. Hotel restaurants, especially in superior hotels, can be more expensive. Additionally, there are many upmarket restaurants, particularly in Rio, where you should expect to pay up to US$50 per person, or possibly more.

  Bar prices are similar to the UK and a small bottle of beer usually costs around US$2-3 in a hotel bar. Wine, particularly imported wine, can be quite expensive. 

  Rio is generally expensive for most services, often higher than in the UK, although prices outside of Rio and other large cities are usually more reasonable/

• Tipping

  If you receive good service, you may want to leave a tip. This is completely at your discretion. For general excursions, if you want to tip guides, US$2 – 3 per person per day is usual if you are in a group. Approximately US$1 is usual for drivers or transfer staff. 10% is usual in restaurants. Please give any tips directly to the person you would like to tip to ensure that they get it.

• Money

  The currency in Brazil is the Real. Items are priced in local currency. Some hotels will accept payments in US Dollars or Euros. Travellers should take local currency, US dollars or Euros and not UK sterling, which is not widely accepted in any form. Brazilian Reals are usually stocked in UK currency exchanges.

  Credit and debit cards (Visa and MasterCard) can be used in many shops and restaurants, and can also be used to withdraw money from cash machines. In cities, ATMs are often inside banks and cannot be accessed at night, so if you require cash, it is best to get this during the day. Not all cash machines work with international cards, so look for the Cirrus or Plus (Visa) symbols. Banco do Brasil, Bradesco and HSBC banks should accept international cards; however sometimes banks will only have one cash machine compatible with international cards, and will usually only work with Cirrus or Plus cards, not both. The Red Banco 24 Horas machines usually accept most cards. Santander banks are widespread but do not usually accept international cards. All airports, visited on your Llama Travel tour, have at least one cash machine compatible with international cards.

  It is always recommended to inform your bank that you are travelling abroad and to which countries. This will allow them to authorise money withdrawals on your account when you are away. Some banks say that this is not necessary, however we would still recommend contact with your bank as in some cases people have had difficulty in withdrawing currency.
  Using a prepaid travel card (which are loaded online and can be used like a credit or debit card when abroad) are often the best way to avoid the fees charged for using your UK credit/debit cards abroad. If taking travellers cheques, a high commission may be charged. Many hotels do not change travellers cheques so you may need to change them in a bank or exchange shop; therefore, please bear in mind opening hours.

  Please note that it can be difficult to use US dollar notes which have even the smallest tear. When changing US dollars into local Reals, always use a reputable place to change: banks, hotels or exchange shops. Do not change money on the street if you can avoid it.

• Food

  Rio has restaurants with cuisine from all over the world. Typical of the city are the churrascarias, or steakhouses, where, for a fixed price, waiters offer various different cuts of meat to add to your plate. There are many per kilo restaurants, where you pay according to the weight of your plate.

  The restaurants in Foz do Iguaçu near the Iguaçu Falls offer typical Brazilian dishes, and due to its cultural diversity, European and Asian food is also found. To avoid taking a taxi to eat out in the evenings, you may find it more convenient to eat in your hotel. Each of our Iguaçu hotels has at least one good restaurant and bar. In the Brazilian national park, there are snack shops, a cafeteria at the end of the walking trail, and a restaurant which looks out directly towards the falls. The Argentinian national park has a restaurant and several smaller cafes selling snacks.

  Salvador has a distinct cuisine which is a fusion of indigenous, Portuguese and African influences. Common ingredients are dendê (palm oil), fresh coriander, seafood such as shrimps, tomatoes and coconut milk. Must-try dishes include the street food favourite acarajé, a dumpling made from beans and deep-fried in palm oil, stuffed with a paste of shrimps and cashew nuts. Another speciality of the area is moqueca, a tasty slow-cooked seafood and fish stew with coconut milk, coriander, onions and garlic. For dessert, try cocadas, a sweet with fresh grated coconut, which is found in various forms around Latin America. Fresh juices and ice creams made from the wide range of fruits found in Brazil are also delicious. Coconut water is a very refreshing drink popular in the city.

  The Praia das Ondas hotel in Itacimirim has an attractive restaurant and bar area, serving main meals and snacks, including local and international options. There are many restaurants on the main streets of Praia do Forte, in addition to ice cream and juice shops which use a wide range of local fresh fruits. Restaurants mainly serve seafood and other Bahian dishes, and some also offer pasta dishes and salads. Prices are often for two people. This is not always specified on the menu so ask the waiter for clarification if prices seem high.

Chile

Travelling in Chile

• Tipping

  If you receive good service, you may want to leave a tip. This is completely at your discretion. If you want to tip guides, US$2-3 per person per day is usual if you are in a group. Approximately US$1-2 is usual for drivers or transfer staff. 10% is usual in restaurants. Please give any tips directly to the person you would like to tip to ensure that they get it.

• What to pack - Chile

  In Santiago, daytime temperatures from October to April tend to be around 20°C - 30°C and night-time temperatures around 10°C. Daytime highs in Torres del Paine from October to April are around 12°C – 20°C and night-time temperatures can drop to 2°C or 3°C. Although rain is usually not heavy, it can get very windy, and wind chill can make the temperatures feel 7 or 8 degrees cooler. In Puerto Varas, daytime highs from October to April tend to be around 15°C - 20°C and night-time temperatures around 6°C - 10°C. Although this is the driest period, rain is common throughout the year. Daytime highs in the Atacama Desert are around 20°C – 25°C and night-time temperatures are around 12°C. Daytime highs on Easter Island are around 20°C – 25°C and night-time temperatures are around 15°C - 20°C. 

  Due to the variations in weather, we recommend taking a variety of clothing, suitable for warm and cold weather. Rain is possible throughout the year, so waterproofs are also recommended. 

  Electricity in Chile is 220V, and plugs are of the round two-pin type. 

  We recommend you carry a copy of your passport with you at all times. 

  Please bring any medication you may require from the UK. 

  You can bring whichever luggage you feel most comfortable with: suitcases, soft bags and rucksacks are fine.

• Budgeting for your stay

  All hotels include breakfast, and other meals are included on some tours and excursions. However, generally, you will need to arrange your own lunches and dinners. We recommend budgeting approximately US$20 – 25 for a meal, although many restaurants have excellent value set lunches for less than this. Hotel restaurants, especially in superior hotels, can be more expensive. Restaurant in more remote areas, including Torres del Paine and Easter Island, are more expensive. Additionally, there are many upmarket restaurants, particularly in Santiago, where you should expect to pay up to US$50 per person, or possibly more.

  Bar prices are similar to the UK and a small bottle of beer usually costs around US$2-3 in a hotel bar. This can be higher in more remote areas.

  If you are planning on arranging any activities locally, especially in Torres del Paine, these can be expensive. These can usually be paid for by credit card.

• Food

  Chileans love meat and there are many restaurants catering for meat lovers. There are also many good seafood restaurants in Santiago, with the Central Market having many good places to eat at lunchtime. Some of the best restaurants are to be found in the Barrio Lastarria and in the Barrio Bellavista, although they tend to be more expensive. There are many restaurants serving good value set lunches throughout the city.

  Most of the restaurants in Puerto Varas can be found close to the centre of the town. Fish is prominent on the menus, but there is also a wide selection of international cuisine. There is a good selection of restaurants in Puerto Natales, especially for a town of its size, including typical Patagonian barbecued meat places, sea food restaurants and pizzerias. In Torres del Paine, you will generally eat in your hotel, although there are some restaurants close to the hotel Rio Serrano. Hotels can also prepare packed lunches. There are few places to eat in the park itself.

  Good food and Chilean wine is also easily found in the centre of Punta Arenas. The local specialty is king crab (centolla). The hearty Chilean cazuela is a stew made from meat, squash, potatoes and other vegetables, and makes for a nourishing, warming meal in the cold Patagonian climate.

  There are several good restaurants in San Pedro in the Atacama Desert, with many serving local ingredients, including llama meat. There is a fairly limited selection of restaurants in Hanga Roa on Easter Island, although there are several good fish restaurants. Prices tend to be quite high, with shipped in food often twice the price of on the mainland, although local fish can be good value.

• Money

  The currency in Chile is the Peso. Travellers should take local currency or US dollars and not UK sterling, which is not widely accepted in any form. Credit and debit cards (Visa and MasterCard) can be used in many shops and restaurants, and can also be used to withdraw money from cash machines. Please note that it can be difficult to use US dollar notes which have even the smallest tear. When changing US dollars into local currency, always use a reputable place to change: banks, hotels or exchange shops. Do not change money on the street if you can avoid it. If taking travellers cheques, a high commission may be charged, especially if changing directly into dollars. Some hotels do not change travellers cheques so you may need to change them in a bank or exchange shop, therefore, please bear in mind opening hours.

  It is always recommended to inform your bank that you are travelling abroad and to which countries. This will allow them to authorise money withdrawals on your account when you are away. Some banks say that this is not necessary; however we would still recommend contact with your bank as in some cases people have had difficulty in withdrawing currency.