EXPERIENCES

Departure from a downtown office in Ushuaia (very close to the port), towards the glacial valleys near the city. A few kilometers from Ushuaia, the Tierra Mayor Valley and the primitive forest begin to open up to welcome us for a walk to reach one of the gems in Tierra del Fuego. We begin a walk through the primitive forest, which for at least 7000 years made life possible for the first inhabitants in these latitudes. Leaving the forest, surrounded by mountains, we find ourselves in a dreamlike landscape: an imposing valley surrounded by snow-capped peaks. The glacial water of the Esmeralda River encounters the engineering feats of the beavers, which found some sort of a paradise here: Surrounded by plenty of food, and despite of the absence of predators, they still apply themselves to their favorite entertainment: the construction of dams. Then we start the ascent towards the Esmeralda lagoon (due to the peat -spongy mass of wet organic material- we suggest the use of rubber boots or perhaps bring spare shoes). The walk to Emerald Lagoon does not present much of a challenge to exercise-loving travelers: with the appropriate clothing, this walk is quite easy and very panoramic. After crossing the valley, we leave behind the lenga forest and begin a sustained ascent along a slightly steep slope. Emerald Lagoon is located at the foot of the Ojo de Albino glacier, between Cerro Bonete and Cordón Toribio in an area of wonderful chromatic amplitude. This is one of the most impressive landscapes in this region! The way back becomes shorter, in a little steep descent, with new panoramic views. We reach the refuge to enjoy dinner (with drinks included, before returning Ushuaia. Attractives: Tierra Mayor Valley, Emerald Lagoon.

We visit a few Welsh settlement located in Rio Chubut Valley. Trelew was named after Lewis Jones, who was a pioneer in the Welsh settlement that started in 1865. Gaiman is a small village with less than 10,000 inhabitants who work mainly in farming activities. Gaiman's main attraction stands on both its high number of typical Welsh buildings and the historic and cultural events that take place in the village every year. Dolavon is also a small village, founded in 1915 and is known as the 'village of the waterwheels'. We also visit Rawson, the capital of the province of Chubut, and enjoy a traditional Welsh tea at Hosteria TyGyn.

This gaucho day trip from Buenos Aires is the best way to see the real heritage of Argentina; visiting San Antonio de Areco, one of the last towns that pridefully guard their customs and keep their traditions alive. This day trip provides the opportunity to know more about Estancia culture, horses and the gaucho lifestyle that is an emblem of argentine identity. At the Estancia, you will appreciate the beauty and simplicity of the Pampas, and learn about rural life in Argentina. You will meet gauchos and participate in activities such as horseback riding and carriage rides through the surrounding farmland. As you dine, you will enjoy a performance of traditional folkloric music and dancing and an impressive gaucho horsemen demonstration. Itinerary: 08.30 am: Pick up at your hotel in Buenos Aires. 10.00 am: Reception at San Antonio de Areco by our guide, who will show you the picturesque streets of the historical center, pulperias (old gaucho bars), the renowned Draghi’s Silversmith Museum, traditional handicraft, and the Ricardo Güiraldes Gaucho Museum. 12.00 noon: Departure to an exclusive Estancia where you will be greeted with empanadas and a delicious Argentine asado (traditional barbecue). With the guide, you will take a tour to visit the Estancia while hearing stories about this historic working ranch. Various activities will be offered: horseback riding or carriage, traditional folkloric dancers and music and impressive destrezas gauchas (Gaucho skills demonstration). You will also have the chance to discover and taste the ritual of the mate (typical infusion)! During the summer, the Estancia opens its 2 swimming pools. 04.30 pm: Departure to Buenos Aires