Futaleufú Multi-Sport

Dec 19-25, 2011 $2500/week (base*)

Mon Dec 19: Travel on to Argentina..

Arriving in Esquel, Argentina from bus or plane connection, you will have some time to get settled into your hotel room, which serves as a base for the next night as well, before an Argentinean-style dinner feast.
(B,D) Option to upgrade to luxury accommodations

OR - Return by WOA shuttle to Valdivia
Returning home through your Gateway City

Tues Dec 20: Esquel Exploration

With similarities to Boulder, CO., this town has intriguing cultural and gastronomical delights! We stop here for “el ambiente,” which is the feel and lifeblood that the town and Argentine culture exude. After a relaxed orientation brunch, we will have a brief cultural and historic tour of this fascinating city, followed by lunch and an active bike ride to see the highlights of the city. Tonight travelers will delight in Argentina's late-night dining culture, and carnivores will be filled with rapture and love-at-first-taste of world-class asado.
(B, L, D) Option to upgrade to luxury accommodations

Wed Dec 21: Hiking in Los Alerces National Park

After breakfast, we will go for a scenic drive to Los Alerces National Park, an incredible destination only a short drive away. As we hike along the beautiful lakes and rivers to make our way to the highest point in the park, we will pass some of the oldest trees in the world. A full day of hiking ends with a delicious guide-prepared meal and some star-gazing at camp.
(B, L, D) Option to upgrade to hotel, instead of camping.

Thur Dec 22: Hike or Kayak in Los Alerces National Park

We savor the beauty of today's trip by hopping into our kayaks and cruise through the lakes. There are excellent opportunities to see wildlife as we paddle through regions off-the-beaten-path and inaccessible by foot. Afterward, we make our way across the border to our hotel (which serves a base for the next two days) to rest up for our next outdoor excursions: Gauchos, asados and Rio Futaleufú!
(B, L, D) Option to upgrade to luxury accommodations

Fri Dec 23 Rio Futaleufú

Here we have our world-class rafting portion of the trip, a destination unto itself for international whitewater. Your professional guide will call paddle strokes as you power through big waves and high water. After this day, we'll be able to see why the Futa Friends and many other organizations are making efforts to protect Chilean rivers from damming.

OR Family rafting option- on Beautiful Rio Azul
(B, D, L) Option to upgrade to luxury accommodations

Sat Dec 24:: Gaucho Day

After breakfast, we go for a summit hike that overlooks town. Then we're off to a genuine gaucho (Chilean Cowboy) ranch for an overnight horseback trip. This is a true view into their past, depicting the evolution of their lifestyle in this gorgeous country. We will also have another asado (BBQ) at tonight's camp to prepare for our next day to travel home or another morning trip on the River. A truly authentic experience.

Alternate Choice- Infierno Canyon V+ on Rio Futaleufú
(B, L, D) Camping is highly recommended in order to appreciate the full experience, but option to upgrade to luxury accommodations available.

Sun (Dec 25) Day 15 Xmas day departure.

Travel day back to your Gateway City (Hub is typically Santiago, Chile or Buenos Aires, Argentina) to get back to where you once belonged.. or stay overnight to rest up and to continue on to Ushuaia or Los Glaciares!

What's Included?

• Camping Gear
• All meals as indicated by trip day
• All accommodations
• Top-notch bilingual(ish) guides
• All cooking gear and food
• All necessary equipment
• Great customer service leading up to, during and after your trip
• Twelve nights in hotels, 2 at camp
• All meals as indicated: (B) = Breakfast, (L) = Lunch (D) = Dinner

What is not included?

• Airfare(s)
  • US to Gateway City (Hub)
  • Hub to Valdivia
  • Esquel to US (via Hub)
  • Ushuaia Extention
  • Esquel to Ushuaia
  • Ushuaia to US (Via hub)
• Upgrades
• Spending Money
• Tips and gratuities

What is available?

• Travel insurance
• Luxury accommodations
• Personal gear
• Flight booking
• Add-on travel packaging

This adventure itinerary is a fluid document subject to change depending on water levels, local politics, volcanoes, tectonic plates, group abilities, weather, and guide judgment.

Best of Northern Patagonia

Dec 11-25, 2011 $2500/week (base*)

Sun (11th). Day 1: Santiago Exploration

Start with a guided day tour of Santiago, Latin America's most modern city. Enjoy lunch in one of the city's large plazas before perhaps indulging in an afternoon siesta. In the evening we will have a nice welcome dinner followed by a little Santiago nightlife before retiring to our Santiago hotel.
(B, L, D) Option to upgrade to luxury Accommodations

Mon Day 2: Valparaiso Day Trip

(Self-Exploration Day!!)
After a 2 hour ride we spend the day exploring Chile's oldest town, Valparaiso. Nestled in the hills along the Pacific coast, colorful houses dot the landscape. Walk the cobblestone streets and ride the ascensores, public tram-like cars used to scale the hills since the 1800's! Return to Santiago hotel.

Alternative Activity- Wine tour!
(B, D) Option to upgrade to luxury accommodations

Tues Day 3: Travel to Valdivia

After breakfast, we fly to Valdivia, where we'll have time to stretch our legs with a brief tour before lunch. Then we will transport the group to our hotel Rinimapu where a traditional Chilean dinner and a Pisco Sour with your guides will await you, followed by a sound sleep.
(B, L, D) Option to upgrade to luxury Accommodations

Wed Day 4: Trip Orientation and Afternoon Rafting

Once you have enjoyed morning brunch, we will discuss trip details to give everyone a general orientation and a chance to relax. In the afternoon, we have the option to enjoy some Class III whitewater rapids on the San Pedro river (NOTE: Damming has started on this river, so we may sea kayak in the lake, if the river becomes unsafe/non-navigable). While we have an informal asado (Chilean bbq) we will be enlightened by local town folk and Mapuche Indians who will give us their perspective on how the area's culture came to be and how they exist today. Our rustic local hotel serves as our base for the next four days.
(B, L, D) Option to upgrade to luxury accommodations

Thur Day 5: Tastes and Secrets of the Northern Lakes Region

Today we head out early to the Panguipulli region for a delightful craft, food, and cultural tour that will impress even the most hardened veteran foodie. Our short city tour begins at a church that has a very intriguing history, and then we are off to the farms! First up is an orchard tour that will open up your palette and whet your appetite. Here we will meet a man who has gathered apples from all over the world to create different varieties of hard ciders.

Next on our food-themed day, we check out a small craft farm that specializes in gourmet cheeses and Jabali meat. Here we will have an opportunity to see the engineering feats of the owner who made his own hydroelectric generator and milking machine. We'll then embark on a scenic kayak float to the calm waters of the Panguipulli Lake. Just when you thought you were done eating for the day, we'll have a meat-lover's smorgasbord sampling the region's tastiest cuts.
(B, L, D) Option to upgrade to luxury accommodations

Fri Day 6: Rio Fuy Rafting!

This is an exciting adventure day! In order to get a better feel and perspective for the river we will be rafting on, we briefly check out the first hydroelectric center in Palenque to see the effects on the river and hear local opinions about how things have changed. Afterward, we raft on the Rio Fuy (or hiking option). Here we are sure to have a great time while embarking on the hour-long trip down this Class III-IV river, jam-packed with rapids. Once we are back on land and dried off, we will enjoy lunch before setting off for the Huilohuilo Nature Reserve for a short tour, then dinner.
(B, L, D) Option to upgrade to luxury accommodations

Sat Day 7: Mocho Volcano Hike Day

Today, those up for the challenge will hike up an igneous mountain to gain a spectacular view. Alternate options abound: Trekking near Choshuenco, Canopy ‘Zip' tour, lake kayaking Rio Huenehue family adventure (Class I rafting or kayaking), fly fishing, paintball, navigation of el Pirehueico, tour of city, history and area attractions that end at Puerto Fuy.
(B, L, D) Option to upgrade to luxury accommodations

Sun (Dec 18) Day 8: Hot Springs Day with Spa Option

After your hard work of volcano hiking, your reward is a day at the hot springs, renowned for their relaxing effects and health benefits. We will take a short tour of the facilities, then have an opportunity to enjoy the baths. Water massage upgrades are also possible in this little Eden. In the evening, we will head back to Panguipulli to enjoy a special Chilean smorgasbord of local meats and sausages. Since you have been so well pampered it only seems right to return to our hotel for a travelers' rest.
(B, L, D) Option to upgrade to luxury accommodations

Mon Day 9: Return home or continue your Adventure..

After a day's travel by bus you arrive in Esquel, Argentina. You will have some time to get settled into your hotel room before an Argentinean-style feast.
(B, D) Option to upgrade to luxury accommodations

What is included?

• Camping gear
• All meals as indicated by trip day
• All accommodations
• Top-notch bilingual(ish) guides
• All cooking gear and food
• All necessary equipment
• Great customer service leading up to, during and after your trip
• Twelve nights in hotels, 2 at camp
• All meals as indicated: (B) = Breakfast, (L) = Lunch (D) = Dinner

What is not included?

• Airfare(s)
  • US to Gateway City (Hub)
  • Hub to Valdivia
  • Esquel to US (via Hub)
  • Ushuaia Extention
  • Esquel to Ushuaia
  • Ushuaia to US (Via hub)
• Upgrades
• Spending Money
• Tips and gratuities

What is available?

• Travel insurance
• Luxury accommodations
• Personal gear
• Flight booking
• Add-on travel packaging

This adventure itinerary is a fluid document subject to change depending on water levels, local politics, volcanoes, tectonic plates, group abilities, weather, and guide judgment.

Best of Northern Patagonia
& Futa Multi-Sport

Dec 11-25, 2011 $2500/week (base*)

Join us for this active fourteen day trip as we explore two of our favorite regions of the Chilean and Argentinean Andes for hiking, kayaking, horseback riding and rafting. Experience ‘must-see' magical and unforgettable highlights on your personally guided Wide Open Adventure of a lifetime through the best of what Northern Patagonia's mountains, lakes, rivers, culture and wildlife have to offer!

Sun (11^th). Day 1: Santiago Exploration

Start with a guided day tour of Santiago, Latin America's most modern city. Enjoy lunch in one of the city's large plazas before perhaps indulging in an afternoon siesta. In the evening we will have a nice welcome dinner followed by a little Santiago nightlife before retiring to our Santiago hotel.
(B, L, D) Option to upgrade to luxury Accommodations

Mon Day 2: Valparaiso Day Trip

(Self-Exploration Day!!)
After a 2 hour ride we spend the day exploring Chile's oldest town, Valparaiso. Nestled in the hills along the Pacific coast, colorful houses dot the landscape. Walk the cobblestone streets and ride the ascensores, public tram-like cars used to scale the hills since the 1800's! Return to Santiago hotel.

Alternative Activity- Wine tour!
(B, D) Option to upgrade to luxury accommodations

Tues Day 3: Travel to Valdivia

After breakfast, we fly to Valdivia, where we'll have time to stretch our legs with a brief tour before lunch. Then we will transport the group to our hotel Rinimapu where a traditional Chilean dinner and a Pisco Sour with your guides will await you, followed by a sound sleep.
(B, L, D) Option to upgrade to luxury Accommodations

Wed Day 4: Trip Orientation and Afternoon Rafting

Once you have enjoyed morning brunch, we will discuss trip details to give everyone a general orientation and a chance to relax. In the afternoon, we have the option to enjoy some Class III whitewater rapids on the San Pedro river (NOTE: Damming has started on this river, so we may sea kayak in the lake, if the river becomes unsafe/non-navigable). While we have an informal asado (Chilean bbq) we will be enlightened by local town folk and Mapuche Indians who will give us their perspective on how the area's culture came to be and how they exist today. Our rustic local hotel serves as our base for the next four days.
(B, L, D) Option to upgrade to luxury accommodations

Thur Day 5: Tastes and Secrets of the Northern Lakes Region

Today we head out early to Panguipulli for a delightful craft, food, and cultural tour that will impress even the most hardened veteran foodie. Our short city tour begins at a church that has a very intriguing history, and then we are off to the farms! First up is an orchard tour that will open up your palette and whet your appetite. Here we will meet a man who has gathered apples from all over the world to create different varieties of hard ciders.

Next on our food-themed day, we check out a small craft farm that specializes in gourmet cheeses and Jabali meat. Here we will have an opportunity to pet Chilean cows and pigs and see the engineering feats of the owner who made his own hydroelectric generator and milking machine. We'll then embark on a scenic kayak float to the calm waters of the Panguipulli Lake. Just when you thought you were done eating for the day, we'll have a meat-lover's smorgasbord sampling the region's tastiest cuts.
(B, L, D) Option to upgrade to luxury accommodations

Fri Day 6: Rio Fuy Rafting!

This is an exciting adventure day! In order to get a better feel and perspective for the river we will be rafting on, we briefly check out the first hydroelectric center in Palenque to see the effects on the river and hear local opinions about how things have changed. Afterward, we raft on the Rio Fuy (or hiking option). Here we are sure to have a great time while embarking on the hour-long trip down this Class III-IV river, jam-packed with rapids. Once we are back on land and dried off, we will enjoy lunch before setting off for the Huilohuilo Nature Reserve for a short tour, then dinner.
(B, L, D) Option to upgrade to luxury accommodations

Sat Day 7: Mocho Volcano Hike Day

Today, those up for the challenge will hike up an igneous mountain to gain a spectacular view. Alternate options abound: Trekking near Choshuenco, Canopy ‘Zip' tour, lake kayaking Rio Huenehue family adventure (Class I rafting or kayaking), fly fishing, paintball, navigation of el Pirehueico, tour of city, history and area attractions that end at Puerto Fuy.
(B, L, D) Option to upgrade to luxury accommodations

Sun (Dec 18) Day 8: Hot Springs Day with Spa Option

After your hard work of volcano hiking, your reward is a day at the hot springs, renowned for their relaxing effects and health benefits. We will take a short tour of the facilities, then have an opportunity to enjoy the baths. Water massage upgrades are also possible in this little Eden. In the evening, we will head back to Panguipulli to enjoy a special Chilean smorgasbord of local meats and sausages. Since you have been so well pampered it only seems right to go to a hotel for a travelers' rest.
(B, L, D) Option to upgrade to luxury accommodations

Mon Day 9: Travel on to Argentina..

After a day's travel by bus you arrive in Esquel, Argentina. You will have some time to get settled into your hotel room before the Argentinean-style Wide Open Adventure feast.
(B, D) Option to upgrade to luxury accommodations

OR - Return by WOA shuttle to Valdivia
Returning home through your Gateway City

Tues Day 10: Esquel Exploration

With similarities to Boulder, CO., this town has intriguing cultural and gastronomical delights! We stop here for “el ambiente,” which is the feel and lifeblood that the town and Argentine culture exude. After a relaxed orientation brunch, we will have a brief cultural and historic tour of this fascinating city, followed by lunch and an active bike ride to see the highlights of the city. Tonight travelers will delight in Argentina's late-night dining culture, and carnivores will be filled with rapture and love-at first-taste of world-class beef.
(B, L, D) Option to upgrade to luxury accommodations

Thur Day 12: Hike or Kayak in Los Alerces National Park

We savor the beauty of today's trip by hopping into our kayaks and cruise through the lakes. There are excellent opportunities to see wildlife as we paddle through regions off-the-beaten-path and inaccessible by foot. Afterward, we make our way across the border to our hotel to rest up for our next outdoor excursions: Gauchos, asados and Rio Futaleufú!
(B, L, D) Option to upgrade to luxury accommodations

Fri Day 13 Rio Futaleufú

Here we have our world-class rafting portion of the trip, a destination unto itself for international whitewater. Your professional guide will call paddle strokes as you power through big waves and high water. After this day, we'll be able to see why the Futa Friends and many other organizations are making efforts to protect Chilean rivers from damming.

OR Family rafting option- on Beautiful Rio Azul
(B, D, L) Option to upgrade to luxury accommodations

Sat Day 14 Gaucho Day

After breakfast, we go for a summit hike that overlooks town. Then we're off to a genuine gaucho (Chilean Cowboy) ranch for an overnight horseback trip. This is a true view into their past, depicting the evolution of their lifestyle in this gorgeous country. We will also have another asado (BBQ) at tonight's camp to prepare for our next day to travel home or another morning trip on the River. A truly authentic experience.

Alternate Choice- Infierno Canyon V+ on Rio Futaleufú
(B, L, D) Camping is highly recommended in order to appreciate the full experience, but option to upgrade to luxury accommodations available.

Sun (Dec 25) Day 15 Xmas day departure

Travel day back to your Gateway City (Hub is typically Santiago, Chile or Buenos Aires, Argentina) to get back to where you once belonged.. or stay overnight to rest up and to continue on to Ushuaia or Los Glaciares!

What is included?

• Camping gear
• All meals as indicated by trip day
• All accommodations
• Top-notch bilingual(ish) guides
• All cooking gear and food
• All necessary equipment
• Great customer service leading up to, during and after your trip
• Twelve nights in hotels, 2 at camp
• All meals as indicated: (B) = Breakfast, (L) = Lunch (D) = Dinner

What is not included?

• Airfare(s)
  • US to Gateway City (Hub)
  • Hub to Valdivia
  • Esquel to US (via Hub)
  • Ushuaia Extention
  • Esquel to Ushuaia
  • Ushuaia to US (Via hub)
• Upgrades
• Spending Money
• Tips and gratuities

What is available?

• Travel insurance
• Luxury accommodations
• Personal gear
• Flight booking
• Add-on travel packaging

This adventure itinerary is a fluid document subject to change depending on water levels, local politics, volcanoes, tectonic plates, group abilities, weather, and guide judgment.

Nuble River Multi-Sport

Want something besides Turkey this Thanksgiving? How about Chile?! Our NEW Nuble River Festival trip will charm all friends and family with a cultural and multi-sport medley. Move through the Chilean wine country, sampling local cuisine and activities, and end with exhilarating whitewater rafting at the Nuble River Festival in only the second year of this ecologically important event!

Price: $1599

Tastes And Secrets Of
The Northern Lakes Region

Culture, food, relaxation and natural beauty (easy)

This cultural tour will be wine- and food-centered, punctuated with adventure. As we sample the food and wine we will also get a taste of the local style of life and the outdoor activities of the region. You will be gastronomically delighted as we peruse the local flavors of the region from meats to wines to cheeses. Get a glimpse of how the natives sustainably produce their food for the local economy. Along the way we have the opportunity to visit pristine rivers that are in the process of being dammed. After our day of hiking up a volcano we will enjoy a nice soak in some hot springs.

Price: $1899

Los Glaciares Trekking

Trekking in Patagonia's most famous glacial park (moderate)

Come explore the mountains and peaks of Los Glaciares National Park with us and enjoy the spectacular views! This trip involves some moderate-level hiking and trekking as we explore glaciers and a quaint mountain town. Hike the peaks that define the region, and inspired climber Yvon Chouinard to name his
clothing line Patagonia.

Price: $2299

Baker River Float: Glacier "Ice To Ocean"

True expedition down Patagonias biggest river (extreme)

This trip begins at the foothills of massive Patagonian glaciers and continues down Chiles mightiest river all the way down to the Pacific Ocean. If you are looking to get out there the Aysén region of Patagonia is the place to go. On our epic float down the Baker River we will pass estancias and the occasional cowboy, making our way during this journey through the landscape of snow-capped peaks and glaciers surrounding us. The trip culminates with our small rafts pulling into the Pacific Ocean and ending at Tortel, a historic village on stilts.

Price: $2749