There is no infrastructure on the way, so the group will make a few stops during your hikes so that folks can get some privacy in the bushes.

Everyone will be asked to bring their toilet paper back to the hotel with them post-hike to avoid leaving anything behind (pack it in, pack it out!), and to stay away from any water source to avoid contamination.

The only activity that has an age requirement is the Perito Moreno Glacier Minitrek. If you are 65 years or older, regardless of fitness level, the supplier will not allow you to participate in this activity.

This activity is organized through a supplier, so you will have a local, specialized Guide for this activity.

The Guide for this activity is not your main trip Guide - the main trip Guide will not be participating in this optional activity. Your Guide will walk with your group up to the dock where you will take the ferry to the glacier, and then will meet the group at the same spot upon your return.

Please note that for this activity, there is a local guide for every 15-20 people, so the group may need to be split up.

It is highly recommended and encouraged that you use hiking boots. Sneakers/trail runners are not recommended as the terrain can be quite rough, wet, slippery, snowy and/or muddy. You may want a pair of non-hiking shoes to wear to meals and around the hotel, too.

You can bring them with you, or rent/buy in Patagonia. There are a few spots in El Chalten and Puerto Natales where you can buy or rent hiking poles if you do not wish to travel with them.

Your local guide will be able to assist any travelers with this upon your arrival if necessary.

Please note that if you do opt to bring your own poles, that many airlines have regulations against bringing them in the cabin with you in a carry-on bag. We would highly recommend you check your poles to make sure they make it to Patagonia with you.

You will be provided with any safety equipment you need for activities like crampons, harnesses, helmets, carabineers, etc. If there is a specific item you're wondering about, please reach out.

Tap water in Patagonia is drinkable in most urban areas. However, it is recommended to consume bottled water in the more remote regions of the area.

For hikes, we advise not to drink the glacier water unless it’s filtered.

Box lunches may vary slightly, but typically they will contain a sandwich (chicken, tuna, vegetarian or antipasta), an empanada (meat or vegetarian pie), a fruit, dried fruit, a pastry and some candy. No water or drinks included.

Dietary restrictions, if known about in advance because the information has been added to your Trip Form, will be accommodated as best as possible.

While this destination is not the most beginner friendly, you do not need to be an avid hiker to complete these treks and have a great time! Having a moderate to high level of fitness is very important though.

You should be prepared for multiple, full-day hikes that range in distance from ~5 miles to 16+ miles, all with elevation changes and at altitude.

The Blue Rate - or Blue Dollar - is the unofficial exchange rate for the Argentine peso for exchanges made on the street through a street exchanger (known as an "arbolito").

Although considered illegal, the Argentine blue rate is widely used by locals and tourists alike to exchange euro or dollars, often at a better rate.

Layers! Layers! Layers! Patagonia is known for its unpredictable and extreme weather conditions, so packing layers is the best way to be prepared.

In the Patagonian summer (December - February), temperatures usually range from about 50°F to mid-70s in the day and can drop into the 40s at night.

Because of the strong winds - they can reach more than 100mph! - temperatures may seem colder. Shorts and t-shirts are great for warm days of hiking, but the nights and mountains can be quite cool. Long pants, warm upper layers and a windproof and waterproof jacket will be your best friends at the top of a mountain or on chilly nights, plus they protect your skin from the sun's harsh rays on this side of the planet!

There are taxis in the major towns in Patagonia (both in Chile and Argentina). The easiest way to get one is to ask your hotel or a restaurant to call one for you or go to the designated taxi stations.

To travel across towns in Patagonia or across the border, buses are affordable and reliable. There is no Lyft or Uber available.

Some of the Patagonia itineraries we have do include a transfer across the Argentinian/Chilean border, so please check your itinerary so that this is something you are prepared for. Your Guide will ensure you are completely prepared for this - including what you need and what you can and cannot bring.

While crossing over the border, please have your passport with you and don't bring restricted items, like unwrapped fruits and vegetables.