Answers to common questions about your South America adventure vacation.

How do I get to South America?

Various airlines have regular services to South America from the United States and the United Kingdom. From the United States, you can fly with any of the following airlines - American Airlines, United Airlines, Delta Airlines, Continental Airlines, Lan Peru or Lan Chile. From the United Kingdom, you can fly with American Airlines, KLM, Continental or Iberia International.

For all flights coming from the USA we recommend contacting Going Places in San Francisco. Call Liezel on 510 848 9000. They know all about matching up flights with our schedules, and are often able to offer our clients some really good deals, so be sure and tell them that you are looking at taking an ACTIVE SOUTH AMERICA trip! Let us know how you get on!

In Peru, a reliable travel agent is Fertur in Lima; they can be a great help on flights within South America. You can make a request for a flight by going to www.fertur-travel.com and clicking on 'Enquiry Form', or contact them directly by emailing receptivo@fertur-travel.com.

Can I use my frequent flyer miles to get there?

It's a great idea - go and do it! Many of our clients have been able to use their Frequent Flyer miles for the international portion of their airfare. You just need to keep two very important things in mind:

1. Get in early! The fares open up about a year before travel, so if you feel an active adventure coming on, call your airline frequent flyer programme NOW.

2. Things change! If you've called your airline and they've said there is no availability for your frequent flyer miles, don't give up. Call them back the next day. And the next... Lots of our clients have found that just by calling every day, they get what they need through sheer persistence!

Let us know how you get on!

How many people are there on each trip?

We generally take no more than 14 people on our trips, and we have an experienced trip leader, fluent in Spanish, there to look after you. We get a variety of both singles and couples, with ages ranging from 20s to 60s, and because of the nature of what we do down in South America, we find that our trips tend to attract all sorts of interesting people. In fact, many of our clients have said the social scene was one of the highlights of their trip!

What are the accommodations like?

You'll love the places you'll stay, but please be aware that our trips are not designed as a tour of the world's fanciest hotels! We also occasionally make changes to the night stops (i.e. accommodation) because the nature of the places we use is such that they are not always available.

The accommodation we use varies depending on the trip you take. For instance, the Jaguar is an uncompromising adventure-orientated trip - so you'll stay in a combination of comfortable hotels, family homes, and tents on occasion. You'll spend a couple of nights in a lodge in the Amazon basin which doesn't have hot water, but has an unrivalled rainforest location.

Because there's such a variety of accommodations on our trips, some places will have ensuite bathrooms, while others will have shared bathrooms. However, on all trips, we will be asking you to share a bathroom with others on occasion.

How fit do I need to be?

In general, you must have a reasonable level of fitness to enjoy yourself on our trips. Having said that, our trips are designed for real people, not triathletes! You don't have to be young or extremely fit (although if you are, you won't be bored), but you should be in the habit of doing at least some regular exercise. Age and experience are not important - we would rather have an older person with a good attitude, than a 22-year-old couch potato!

Will the altitude affect me?

On our Jaguar, Capybara and Tucan trips we get to some higher altitudes (for instance, 14,200ft on Amantani Island). On the other trips, while you'll find yourself on top of a few mountains, we don't get to the sort of altitudes that cause some people problems.

Over the years we've found that if you take it easy on arrival in higher locations, you'll be just fine. Sure, we get straight into our activities at the start of our trips, but our itinerary takes altitude into account and there is plenty of leeway to relax during the first couple of days. Your trip leader and team of local guides will make sure you're doing fine.

We've been taking people up high for a long time, and we've found that a positive attitude, taking it easy and not worrying about the thinner air are great assets to have - after all, what's altitude when you've got the right attitude?!

Do I need a visa?

People from the USA, Canada, Britain, Germany, and most other western countries will be issued a 30-day tourist visa for all South American countries involved on entry. Provided your passport is valid, you won't need anything else to get into the countries we visit, with a couple of exceptions:

Condor: In Chile, a US$100 one-off entry fee is charged to holders of US passports. Australian passport holders are charged $34, and Canadians need to pay a fee of $55. Holders of European passports are not charged anything.

Tortuga: There is a US$100 charge for all tourists entering the Galapagos. You will need to have this amount on you in cash when you land in San Cristobal.

What about vaccinations and malaria?

We recommend the following vaccinations for the following countries. Please note that vaccination recommendations change all the time, and they also depend on how long you're travelling for. The following list will give you an idea of which vaccinations you might need but for specific, up-to-date information please consult your doctor or travel clinic at least 1 month prior to travel to discuss which vaccinations are the best for you:

CHILE/ARGENTINA: Hepatitis A, Tetanus
For travel in Chile and Argentina we recommend getting vaccinated against Hepatitis A and Tetanus, as well as Chicken Pox & Measles if you've never caught them before. Rabies & Malaria medication is not considered necessary in the areas that we travel, but may be required if you are doing further independent travel.

COSTA RICA: Hepatitis A, Tetanus
Chicken Pox & Measles - if you've never caught it/been vaccinated for it before. Malaria medication - please consult with your doctor about malaria medication.

MAINLAND ECUADOR: Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid and Yellow Fever
Chicken Pox & Measles - if you've never caught it/been vaccinated for it before. Rabies & Malaria medication is not considered necessary in the areas that we travel, but may be required if you are doing further independent travel.

GALAPAGOS ISLANDS: Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid
Chicken Pox & Measles - if you've never caught it/been vaccinated for it before. Rabies & Malaria medication is not considered necessary in the areas that we travel, but may be required if you are doing further independent travel.

PERU: Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid and Yellow Fever
Chicken Pox & Measles - if you've never caught it/been vaccinated for it before. Rabies & Malaria medication is not considered necessary in the areas that we travel, but may be required if you are doing further independent travel.

Can you recommend a travel insurer?

All ACTIVE SOUTH AMERICA travellers are required to obtain travel insurance. When selecting a travel insurance policy we require that your policy covers you for emergency repatriation and full medical cover. We strongly recommend that your policy also provides cover in the event of theft, trip interruption, loss of luggage and personal effects, cancellation or other travel mishap.

Travel insurance can be obtained through local travel agents, or online brokers such as www.travelguard.com or www.worldnomad.com. - these and other insurance policy packages can be compared via www.insuremytrip.com.

Do I need to speak Spanish?

A little would be helpful, especially on arrival and for ordering food in restaurants, but it's certainly not required. Our trip leaders are all fluent Spanish speakers so if you don't have time to learn a little Spanish before arrival you don't have to worry... they will take care of everything. If you wish to learn some helpful, easy phrases, then have a look at our handy guide to Spanish phrases.

What is the voltage in South America?

CHILE/ARGENTINA: Chile and Argentina operate on a 220 volt AC system and a plug with two round prongs side by side. Click here to view a picture of the plug. Converter plugs are readily available from travel stores and airport shops. If you're from a country where the voltage is lower (eg. 110V AC) you may need a converter/transformer to convert the higher voltage of 220V AC to 110V AC, depending on the appliance. Many appliances come with an inbuilt converter/transformer these days, but if you want to check whether yours does, look for a stamp on the bottom of the appliance which says "110-240V." If it has one it means that the appliance can handle both 110V AC and 220V AC, if it only says "110V" or doesn't say anything then you'll probably need a converter/transformer - just ask at your nearest camera/electrical store.

COSTA RICA: Costa Rica operates on a 110 volt system and the same type of plug as the USA (two vertical prongs side by side) - so if you're based in the USA you won't have any problems!

ECUADOR: Ecuador operates on a 110 volt system and the same type of plug as the USA (two vertical prongs side by side) - so if you're based in the USA you won't have any problems!

GALAPAGOS: The Galapagos operates on a 110 volt system and the same type of plug as the USA (two vertical prongs side by side) - so if you're based in the USA you won't have any problems!

PERU: Peru operates on a 220 volt system and the same type of plug as the USA (two vertical prongs side by side). So if you're based in the USA you may need a converter/transformer to convert Peru's higher voltage of 220 volts AC to 110V AC for your appliance (depending on the appliance). I recommend that you check your camera/iPod/computer/hairdryer to see if you need one. If it says "110-240V" then it might be able to handle both voltages (as many appliances come with an inbuilt converter/transformer these days). If it only says "110V" or doesn't say anything then you'll probably need one. But I'd check with your nearest electrical goods store just to make sure!

What is your cancellations policy?

We require a US$500 deposit per person to secure your place on your chosen trip/s. This deposit is non-refundable and non-transferable to another departure date or trip. If you need to cancel the trip, the balance of the trip cost will be refunded according to the following schedule:

1. Prior to 60 days before the commencement of the trip: full refund of balance.
2. Within 60 days before the commencement of the trip: 50% refund of balance.
3. Within 30 days before the commencement of the trip: no refund.

What luggage should I bring?

We recommend bringing one medium sized piece of luggage and one daypack per person. If you are going on a Tucan, or carrying your own pack on a Jaguar, you could just use your hiking backpack. If not, then a duffle bag or suitcase would be fine. While you're trekking we'll store any extra gear for you - you don't have to lug it with you! You may wish to bring a soft overnight bag to store this extra gear.

We also recommend that you...

1. Wear your hiking boots while travelling, and pack all essential items in your carry-on luggage (including your passport, money, eye wear, change of clothing, and medications) in case your luggage is delayed.
2. Remember, you're on holiday so kitchen sinks are not required! If you're spending a lot more time in our part of the world, it is possible to bring a small amount of extra gear on your trip and leave it in our hotel.

I need to bring extra luggage with me to South America, where can I store it?

On all our trips you can store excess luggage in the hotels where your trips begin. Alternatively, you can store luggage at the airport, or possibly leave it in the back of the luggage compartment of your vehicle.

Do I really need everything on the gear list?

Yes, you really do need everything on the required gear list! We can hire you a sleeping bag if you let us know in advance. The gear list is carefully thought out to provide you with everything you need to be warm and happy, or cool and relaxed, whatever the weather! If you don't bring everything you need, we can't guarantee your comfort. On the other hand, if you bring much MORE than you need, lugging around all that luggage can be uncomfortable too! That's why our gear list is so specific - if you follow it to the letter, you will be equipped just right.

What should I wear while hiking?

We recommend wearing clothes made from the quick drying, "breathable" fabrics. There are a wide variety of these types of clothes available at outdoor stores such as REI (Recreational Equipment Incorporated). Brands such as Marmot, Patagonia and North Face are quite popular, although some "no-name" brands can be just as good and more economical. We recommend you don't wear jeans for any activities as they get very heavy & uncomfortable if they get wet, which you will at some stage during your trip. The same clothing can be worn for hiking, cycling and kayaking. We recommend wearing hiking pants or shorts, and shirts or t-shirts made from these quick drying, "breathable" fabrics. In cooler weather we recommend using thermal underwear - these are worn under your pants & t-shirts for an extra layer of warmth. On top we recommend sweaters made from fleece or wool - again because they keep you warm even when you are wet. As an outer layer we recommend a medium weight waterproof jacket. Jackets made from Goretex or Marmot's PreCip are highly recommended.

Do I need hiking boots or are hiking sneakers okay?

You will need proper hiking boots with full ankle support and a stiff sole with high profile tread. We will be hiking over a variety of terrain, including uneven surfaces, tree roots and slippery rocks. Waterproof boots would be an advantage.

Do I need to bring dress clothes to wear out to dinner or clubs?

No. South America is a very casual place and you will be comfortable and appropriately dressed going out to dinner wearing jeans or khakis.

Is tipping expected in South America?

Yes, tipping is expected in restaurants and so on, throughout South America and 10% is an acceptable rate, in either US dollars or local currency (if applicable). Your guide will take care of tipping local guides, drivers, and waiters during your ACTIVE SOUTH AMERICA trip. You might want to tip a little extra if you feel someone gave really fantastic service, but it's not really necessary. Many of our people also choose to tip their ACTIVE SOUTH AMERICA guide at the end of an awesome trip - most people tip around US$100. We'd like to stress though that tipping is very much your call.

For the Jaguar trip it's also a tradition to tip your Classic or Lares Inca Trail team, during a ceremony on your last night on the trail. Suggested minimum amounts are US$10 for your specialist trail guide plus US$20 for porters, and if you hire a personal porter as well, you may want to add another US$10. So your total tips could add up to $30 if you carry your own gear, and $40 if you hire a porter for your overnight gear. When our clients see how hard the porters work they often want to give more!

How much cash do I need and where is the best place to carry it?

You need to spend very little on your ACTIVE SOUTH AMERICA trip. Our trips include all transportation, guiding, meals and activities (except where indicated on the itinerary). The only things you will definitely need cash for are drinks other than water (all drinking water is supplied, but we don't cover other drinks), souvenirs, and tips (we cover most tips, but not all - please see tipping question above for more details).

So generally speaking you'll need very little money on our trips, but we can't tell you exactly how much - it really depends on how many souvenirs you decide to buy!

ATMs where you can withdraw both US and local currency are common in the starting cities of all our trips, and at some points along the way - your trip leader can tell you where and when you'll have the opportunity to withdraw cash once your tirp is underway. Your debit or credit card will work in South America - unless you're a member of an incredibly obscure bank - and we recommend simply bringing it along and withdrawing cash as you need it along the way, rather than bringing traveller's checks, which are difficult to change, or vast amounts of cash, which is simply uneccesary.

All the places we stay have safes for your cash and other valuables, and we recommend using some sort of moneybelt worn under your clothing to keep your money secure while in transit.

Where can I get local dollars?

If you don't have any currency before you get to South America, no problem! You can change currency on arrival at the airport, or at a bank of 'Casa de Cambio' in your joining city. You can also change currency at the airport you depart from in the United States. Money can also be changed, at an unfavourable rate, in most hotels. Your trip leader will advise you on the best places to change currency where ever we go. Usually the easiest thing to do is use your credit or debit card to withdraw money directly from your home account, in local currency.

There are plenty of ATM's and banks in larger towns in South America, and ATMs will accept all major credit cards and many debit cards. Cash advances are the most convenient way to get cash.

Local currencies are:

Jaguar and Capybara: Soles (Peru)

Tucan and Tortuga: US Dollars (Ecuador uses US dollars as its currency) Tortuga clients please note: It is difficult to change traveller's cheques in the Galapagos Islands, and the only credit cards accepted are Cirrus and Mastercard. You should withdraw cash from an ATM in mainland Ecuador before leaving for the Islands - your ACTIVE SOUTH AMERICA guide will make time for this.

Condor: Pesos (Chile and Argentina)

Iguana and Quetzal: Colones (Costa Rica)

Will I be able to call home?

Your cell phone may or may not work in South America full stop - a lot of cell phone companies say they will but they're wrong - and there's certainly very little coverage on our trip routes. If I were you, I'd put your phone in a suitcase, and not look at it for two weeks! You may like to bear in mind that a lot of our clients have come on one of our trips to ESCAPE call phones, emails, faxes, etc!

When we are in larger towns and cities, you will be able to call home from 'Locutorios' - phone call centres which offer international calls at cheap rates.

Will I have access to the internet?

There are internet cafes in the bigger cities such as Lima, San Jose, Punta Arenas, and Quito and Cuzco. We encourage you to leave the world behind for a few weeks though! There is limited access to the internet in the Galapagos Islands.

Is there a number to call in an emergency? How can my family, friends or colleagues contact me

If there is a problem at home, have your family/friends contact us on 1.800.661.9073 [USA and Canada], or (0808) 234 7780 from the UK, or+64-3-450-0414 from elsewhere.

CHILE, COSTA RICA, ECUADOR AND GALAPAGOS TRIPS: If you have any difficulties in making the rendezvous for your trip, please call our South America Operations Manager on the following numbers:

Office: +64 27 450 0418 Cellphone: +64 27 444 6933

PERU TRIPS: If you have any difficulties in making the rendezvous for your trip, please call our Peru Manager on the following number:

Cellphone: +51 1 99787 3950

If calling from within Peru you need to dial 01 99787 3950.

These phone numbers are also the emergency contact numbers for your friends and family if necessary and are attended 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

IMPORTANT NOTE Cell phone numbers are for GENUINE emergencies only. Please be considerate of time differences - New Zealand is ten hours behind USA Eastern Standard Time. Peru is USA Eastern Standard Time.