Frequently Asked Questions
+ How do I book a trip?
Very simply: just contact Chef Talo.
+ What is the cancellation policy?
If any guest cancels less than 30 days prior to Trip start date, 100% of Trip package price is forfeited. If a guest has not made full payment, a charge will be assessed to recover additional monies to fulfill the terms above.
If full payment has not been made at the time of cancellation, retreat credit will be issued first to satisfy the terms above – i.e. in lieu of a refund or with a reduced refund. Meaning, the portion of the package price to be credited to the guest will be prioritized over the portion to be refunded. Any cancellation fees will be deducted first.
+ What if we have food allergies?
This Trip is your ultra-luxury experience — we will do everything in our power to accommodate your needs, simply inform us in advance. There is space for this in the reservations section.
+ Who else is coming?
That depends! We will have a few options for set-date Experiences you can join, or you may choose to bring your friends and family and book a private Experience.
+ On set-date trips, can I come alone?
These Experiences have double-rooms only. You are welcome to bring a friend, family member, partner, co-worker — anyone you like. All reservations will be made for double rooms, whether for one or two guests.
+ Is this an adults-only or family-friendly trip?
Explore Argentina is a relaxed, adult Experience. While it is for adults, this is an inclusive event. If you're looking for a wild, "adult" vacation, please ask to be kept on our mailing list for future Trips. If you are looking for an Experience that includes young children, please contact Chef Talo.
+ What is included in the cost?
All in-country flights (on private vessels), all in-country ground transportation, all meals, all gratuities (for Trip-booked activities), and all lodging. Not included is travel to Buenos Aires and any additional activities (and associated gratuities).
+ What's the weather going to be like?
In short: lovely! We often host this Experience in April as it is one of the best months to visit Buenos Aires — it will still be relatively warm and well past the summer rainy months. The average high is 75° and low is 62°.
The weather in April in Patagonia is rather cool and dry with an average highs of 55° and lows of 48°. It will feel like Aspen in October.
+ What kind of clothing should we pack?
We recommend a little bit of everything. It will be warm in the city, cooler in the mountains, and there will be plenty of opportunity for nights out on the town as well as exploring the rugged hills and lakes.
Buenos Aires is a cosmopolitan city with chic restaurants and lots of nightlife. People dress smartly so if you don't want to be viewed as a tourist, it's best to avoid shorts and sports attire.
In the countryside, the nights will be cool so bring layers. Good shoes and socks for walking and wool items are recommended.
+ What are the luggage allowances?
For our private flights, the luggage allowance is two items plus one personal item.
+ Will we receive a pre-arrival packet?
Most definitely. We will be providing a comprehensive look at all the lodging, likely weather conditions, suggested clothing, and a complete itinerary. We will also include an introduction to your fellow travelers, any updated information, and all points of contacts for the resorts for you to share with family.
+ Do I have to participate in all the activities?
This is your trip — you do as you please! We would love to have you at the group activities and meals, but you are the captain of your ship and can choose your own adventure. Just keep in mind that costs for any meals outside of those offered with the group will be additional.
+ Are there additional expenses?
Only those you choose. At each resort, there are options to add massage and spa treatments, take fly fishing lessons, guided horseback riding, and a variety of other services. We will present you with a menu of choices in advance of departure for pre-booking, and there will be á la carte options once we arrive.
For all resort/airport transfers and meals, gratuities will be covered by Chef Talo. For any activities, restaurant dining, or additional bookings guests make during the Trip, gratuities will be extra.
+ Will we need Argentine pesos or cash?
Only enough to cover shopping at local markets or other side excursions. All listed Trip expenses and gratuities are included. We don't foresee a need for more than U.S. $500 in cash, which can be easily obtained at the airport in Buenos Aires.
+ Will there be cellular service? What about WiFi?
Cellular connectivity in Buenos Aires will depend on your carrier and international coverage. We recommend contacting your carrier prior to departure. The Patagonia portion of the trip will be over WiFi only while we are on the Resort properties. In Patagonian towns and surrounding areas, we can expect to be offline. Our team is happy to share information about text and calling apps that can help stay connected to family while we are in Patagonia, if it is helpful.
+ Is Argentina safe?
Argentina is a very safe country. The U.S. State Department lists it as a Level 1 country, the safest on the scale. As in any city, beware of any potential pickpocketers and keep your valuables hidden.
+ Are there visa requirements?
No, U.S. tourists entering Argentina do not need a visa for stays less than 90 days.
+ I have additional questions, where can I get answers?
We are happy to answer any further questions you may have. Just reach out to us on our Contact page.