Patagonia River GuidesTrip Information Packet

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Patagonia River GuidesPatagonia River Guides

800.654.0676 Book Now!800.654.0676 Book Now!

CONTENTSPRG 2015 Price ListCancellation Policty / Tip InsuranceTravel ChecklistTravel InformationPRG’s In-house Travel Experts PRG’S Recommended Travel Agents Detailed Travel InformationTravel Flow ChartAditional InformationLodge Specific InformationRecommended Gear, Tackle, and FliesPRG’s - FAQ’STRAVEL TIPSContact InfoWhat to do in Buenos Aires

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Our friendly and professional staff is ready and available to help you with every step in planning your travel to Argentina. This pre-trip information packet has all the necessary information to assist you in preparing for your flyfishing adventure with PRG. If you have a travel package from a previous year, please discard it and refer to this new edition with updated information.

Step 1: Confirm your ARRIVAL and DEPARTURE dates with PRG.

Step 2: Contact one of PRG’s travel agents to book your travel (info inside this packet).

Step 3: Confirm travel with PRG. We will send you an invoice to confirm your fishing dates with a 50% deposit.

Step 4: Read this packet in full prior to your departure and use the travel checklist to make sure you are ready!

EaSy BOOKING STEPS

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PRG 2015 PRICE LIST TRIP INSURaNCE

You never know when you might have a family emergency, business emergency, natural disaster, worldwide problems, or other issues, which most times trump flyfishing trips. We completely understand, but because we are a very small company, we cannot absorb last-minute cancelations like a big corporation. We hope you understand our cancellation policy and why it is so strict (you can read it on the previous page).

Our programs are non-refundable unless we can replace you and your group. Given more than 90 days advance notice, we can normally rebook the space and will happily refund your payment less a minimum handling fee of $500 per person as per our cancellation policy. Sometimes we have to discount the spots to get them filled and that discount comes out of your pocket. If we can’t fill your spot or you don’t want to pay the possible “handling fees” there are other cancelation options such as: sending a family member, giving your tip to an employee, or rewarding an important client during your original dates - otherwise known as replacement anglers. Finally, the last option is that you and your group can decide to change dates for the minimum handling fee of $500 per person for the same fishing season. Nope, you can’t “roll them over” or move them to another season and we hope you appreciate our position on this.

What if none of those options will work? This is where trip insurance would have saved the day - and if you buy it now, might get you out of a cancellation mess. Trip insurance can and should be purchased within fifteen days of paying your deposit and booking your flights. You should contact your travel agent (our suggested agent’s information is included within this packet) and ask them for details and if you can purchase after the fifteen days has lapsed if you have already paid. Trip insurance can cover the full payment of your fishing trip for almost any reason, and we have never had a claim go unpaid or disputed in over a decade! The cost is small when looking at walking away from a $5000+ fishing trip.

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PaTaGONIa fLIGhTS 2015/16

eSQUeL / BUeNOS AIReSRoute: Buenos Aires Esquel Buenos AiresFlight 2662 Leaves 12:50 Arrives 15:23 Flight 2663 Leaves 16:05 Arrives 18:19Daily flights except Wednesdays

SAN MARtIN / BUeNOS AIReSRoute: Buenos Aires San Martin Buenos AiresFlight 2664 Leaves 10:05 Arrives 12:25 Flight 2665 Leaves 13:05 Arrives 15:05Daily flights

BARILOCHe / BUeNOS AIReSUp to nine (9) daily flights to and from Bariloche and Buenos Aires (AEP) from early morning to late evening.

MeNDOZA / BARILOCHeRoute: Mendoza Bariloche MendozaFlight 1698 Leaves 10:00 Arrives 12:15 Flight 1699 Leaves 15:10 Arrives 17:00Flights Thursday and Sunday

CALAFAte / BARILOCHeRoute: Calafate Bariloche CalafateFlight 1692 Leaves 11:25 Arrives 13:10 Flight 1695 Leaves 13:55 Arrives 15:40Flights: Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday

UPON BOOKING Confirm your fishing dates and schedule with PRG. Book all flights to and from Patagonia preferably with one of PRG’s trusted travel agents to ensure you will make all connections. Book a meet and greet and airport shuttles in Buenos Aires with LOL Argentina (information within).

Pay 50% deposit to PRG to secure your dates (read terms and cancelation policy in this document).

Buy travel insurance in case you have to cancel. It will cover about any cancelation and you’ll get a 100% refund and you have to purchase this within fifteen days of paying for the trip.

Make sure you have a valid passport.

90 DayS PRIOR Pay final payment.

Send your travel schedule to PRG’s travel and logistics professionals. PRG Trevelin and Rio Pico: Julian Ferman (prgtravel@hotmail.com). PRG North: Nerina Flego (prgnorth@gmail.com).

Work with PRG’s logistic specialists to book shuttles to and from fishing lodges if you are not flying to Esquel or San Martin Airport.

Send back requested personal information, preferences, and a list of any equipment you will need. to fill the pre-trip information form!»

Make sure you have paid the required reciprocity fee if you don’t have a copy in your passport and have not traveled to Argentina recently. CLICk HeRe for that info»

Confirm that you have booked meet and greet and airport shuttles with LOL Argentina or another agency within Argentina. If you have any problems, they will be there to help you along the way!

Ask your travel agent for a detailed itinerary if you don’t have one.

10 DayS PRIOR Reconfirm your flights or ask your agent to do so.

Double check that you have crossed off everything above.

Pack carefully and place an extra copy of your itinerary in your checked luggage in case it is lost.

Send PRG contact information to your family and office.

Pack a change of clothes in your carry on in case your luggage is lost.

Get enough cash to pay extra fees, gratuities, and to change for pesos for personal spending.

Consider buying a unique whiskey, scotch, tequila, etc. for your enjoyment and to join the whiskey club at PRG’s Lodge at Trevelin.

Non-stop service to Buenos Aires (EZE airport code) from the USA is available from Atlanta, Dallas, Miami, Houston, and New York. Most other major cities around the world also offer direct flights to Buenos Aires if you are not traveling from the USA. Flight time varies from nine to eleven hours depending on departure city. The good news is that all flights depart the USA in the evening allowing guests to rest and sleep. Almost all flights arrive in Buenos Aires between 7:30 and 10:30 am.

If this is your first time traveling to Argentina, please read the entire package carefully! Buenos Aires has two airports. You arrive Ezezia (EZE) and depart to Patagonia from Aeroparque AKA Jorge Newberry (AEP). You will need a transfer to get from one airport to the other. It is HIGHLY recommended to use LOL Argentina (info in this package) to meet and greet you and to transfer you across the city. Guests should allow for at least three hours from arrival to departure to Patagonia. Many decide to spend one night in Buenos Aires to rest and enjoy the city before starting their fishing trip. If you would rather just get to Patagonia, there are options and working with our travel professionals make it possible. Detailed travel information on airports, transfers, and travel is located within this pre-trip packet. Please read thoroughly and ask us if you have any questions.

There are six flights per week from Buenos Aires to Esquel Airport (EQS) for those destined to PRG Lodge at Trevelin or PRG at Tres Valles Lodge in Rio Pico. San Martin de los Andes’ Chapelco Airport (CPC) has daily flights for those fishing with PRG North. These non-stop flights are about two hours in duration and most lodges are within an hour from the airport. Ground transfers from Esquel and San Martin Airports are included in

the price of the trip and a representative from PRG will be waiting for your arrival. It is also possible to connect via Bariloche Airport offering as many as ten daily flights, but it is important to know that there is two to four hour transfer to the fishing areas depending on your destination. Transportation to and from Bariloche is easily arranged, but there is an extra charge for the transfer. Current estimates for the transfer are $125 USD per person by ground or $250 per person by private plane when available.

TRavEL ChECKLIST TRavEL INfORmaTION

CLICk HeRe

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PRG’S IN-hOUSE TRavEL ExPERTS

pRG has two travel and logistic experts to help you coordinate all of your travel!

they work hand and hand with Rance, travis, and Alex as well as with Holdy tours

and LOL Argentina to ensure that travel is seamless and effortless. Combined, Julian,

Nerina, and our agents will save you time searching, thinking about travel, and also

guarantee that you get the best prices and service. If you want to do things on your

own or with your own agent - no problem - just make sure that Julian and Nerina

have your travel schedule so that they can make 100% sure that you have exactly

what you need. prior to your trip, Julian and Nerina will collect some important

personal information to ensure that your preferences, dietary requirements, and

any health issues are covered before your arrival to fish with pRG.

hOLDy TOURS » fULL SERvICE fROm yOUR hOmE TO PaTaGONIa aND BaCK

LOL aRGENTINa » PRG’S CONCIERGE IN BUENOS aIRES

PRG recommends the travel service provided by Holdy Tours to get all your travel needs in one place. Our personal contact and owner, Alicia Regueiro, specializes in travel for flyfishermen and has been working with PRG for almost a decade. We highly recommend Alicia’s service for an all in one package from your city of departure to PRG’s doorstep. Alicia can book all of your travel including: airline tickets to Patagonia, Buenos Aires transfers and tours with LOL Argentina, Buenos Aires Hotels (if requested), and TRAVEL INSURANCE. Holdy Tours also accepts credit card payments making it easy to pay for everything all at once. None of Alicia’s services are covered in the PRG package price.

If you already have a travel agent book your flights for you or have booked your travel yourself, Gaia and LOL Argentina is our recommended choice for assistance in Buenos Aires. Alicia at Holdy Tours also works with LOL for an all-in-one solution to travel to PRG. One of the many services LOL provides is complete airport assistance, which is invaluable for most non-Spanish speakers. Gaia and her staff provide meet and greet services at the international and domestic airports, informative transfers within the city, assistance checking in at airports, solutions to delayed flights, and can perform miracles at times with any other issues that might arise. If you use LOL’s service, you can also think of them as your personal concierge to the city of Buenos Aires. They can recommend and make dinner reservations, get you tickets to events, show you around the city, take you shopping (or shop for you), change local currency (for a better rate), answer questions, or just enjoy a drink and get to know you. Please count on Gaia and her staff to provide you with a memorable experience in Buenos Aires. Payments must be made by wire transfer to LOL’s US bank account and fees apply for each service performed. None of LOL’s services are included in the price of PRG’s trip and a full quote should be requested.

HOLDy tOURSWeb: www.holdytours.com • Email: alicia@holdytours.comPhone (925) 927-6617 • Toll Free (800) 446-1111 • Fax (925) 927-6640

JULIaN fERmaN

pRG trevelin and Rio picotravel expertemail: prgtravel@hotmail.comphone: +54 92945 520005

NERINa fLEGOpRG North travel expertemail: prgnorth@gmail.comphone: +54 92944 4609549

LOL ARGeNtINAWeb: www.lolargentina.com • Email: gaia@lolargentina.comCell: 011 54 9 11 54044006

hOLDy TOURS LOL TRavEL International Tickets BeSt NO Ease of Service and Price Domestic Airline Tickets BeSt YES No fees with HoldyTravel Insurance BeSt NO Buy it through Holdy Hotels Buenos Aires YES BeSt Local Knowledge Extended Stays in Argentina GOOD BeSt Best extended stay portfolio Airport Transfers Buenos Aires Books LOL BeSt Personal Attention City Tours Books LOL BeSt Personal Attention Entertainment Books LOL BeSt Personal Attention Currancy Exchange in Bs. As. NO BeSt LOL Exchanges for you! Payment Method Credit Card Wire Ease of paying all at once

PRG’S RECOmmENDED TRavEL aGENTS

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DETaILED TRavEL INfORmaTION

Many of you have traveled to Argentina before and know the system. For those of you that haven’t traveled to Argentina for a while or it is the very first time, this information is provided make the process simple, stress-free, and as enjoyable as travel can be. ImPORTaNT NOTES: • You must have a valid passport. • Prior to arrival into Argentina, you will need to pay the $160 USD “reciprocity fee” online CLICk HeRe. This entrance fee is good for multiple entries over a ten-year period. If you have paid it previously make sure you have a receipt in your passport. • Buenos Aires has two airports: The international airport - Ezeiza (EZE) - and the domestic airport - Jorge Newberry or Aeroparque (AEP). Everyone arrives internationally to Ezezia and flies to Patagonia from Aeroparque. • You will need at least 3-hours from the time you land in Buenos Aires to the time your Patagonia flight takes off to make the connection. The same is true from arrival in the domestic airport to departure at the international airport. • It is recommended that you arrange all transfers, hotels, and travel through LOL Argentina in case you have any issues along the way such as: lost luggage, delayed flights, canceled flights, flight changes, heavy traffic causing delays in transfers, etc. aRRIvaL INTO aRGENTINa ON tHe pLANe You will be given both an immigration and customs form on the airplane. Fill them out the best you can and remember that the Argentine customs is very easy and are only looking for Argentines trying to bring back electronics without paying tax on them. Tourists don’t need to declare anything, including the part asking about your cell phone. The form is antiquated.

UpON ARRIvAL IN BUeNOS AIReS - eZe AIRpORt You will disembark your airplane, show you have paid your reciprocity fee, pass through immigration to get your passport stamped, pick-up your luggage, and clear customs. Directly outside of the customs door, you will find LOL Argentina waiting at a meeting spot with your name or group name on a sign - if you have reserved this service. This process normally takes 30 to 45 minutes. AIRpORt SHUttLe FROM INteRNAtIONAL tO DOMeStIC AIRpORt You must transfer between airports upon arrival and departure. If you have reserved the service of LOL Argentina, they will meet you just outside of the customs door at a meeting point. They will have a sign with your name or group name on it. Once you have found your “guide” he or she will take you to your shuttle vehicle and transfer you to the domestic airport to check you in for your domestic flight or take you to your hotel within the city. If you want to transfer on your own without the service of LOL Argentina, please contact us and we will tell you how. The self transfer is not recommended for those that don’t speak Spanish and only recommended for those that have traveled to Argentina in the past. The shuttle between airports takes an average of 45 to 1 hour but can take longer with traffic congestion caused by inclement weather or increased traffic due to holidays. ONCe At tHe DOMeStIC AIRpORt Your guide from LOL Argentina will check you in at Aeroparque | Jorge Newberry (AEP) Airport. They provide complete airport service and will ensure that you pay as little (if any) overweight fees, get you the seats you want, and walk you to the security entrance upstairs in the airport and point you to your gate. If you use their service, you don’t have to worry about anything and if you do have any issues such as a missed or delayed flight, they will fix everything for you!

AeROpARQUe | JORGe NewBeRRy AIRpORt (Aep) Is the Argentina domestic airport and is located in the heart of the city of Buenos Aires. The whole process from arrival at the airport to arrival at your gate normally takes about 15 to 20 minutes. Check-in is simple and should only take 5 to 10 minutes. Security and all of the gates are located upstairs and an escalator or elevator is very close to the check in to take you upstairs. After clearing security, there are 12 gates dedicated to Aerolineas Argentina. All 12 gates are very close and it only takes about 2 minutes to get to your gate. Most of LAN Argentina’s gates are located within the same area but down an escalator just after clearing security. Be sure to look for a monitor to see which gate corresponds to your flight. It is common to not assign the gate until just before the flight, so watch the monitor for gate assignment. If your flight is late or you have extra time, there are several options inside the secure area to have a coffee and relax.There is a very nice store called Shopping Gallery where you can buy Cuban cigars, special liquors, clothing, and food. If you prefer to drink a special scotch, whiskey, vodka, or other, we recommend you pick-up a bottle here. The selection is not great and rarely do they have single malt scotches or American bourbon, so if you want to enjoy either, you must bring a bottle from the USA.

aRRIvaL IN PaTaGONIa You will arrive into one of three airports in Patagonia: Esquel, Bariloche, or Chapelco (San Martin). If you fly into Esquel or Chapelco, one of PRG’s staff will pick you up at the airport and transfer you to your lodge. If you don’t already know the PRG staff, look for our logo on hats or clothing or for a sign with your name on it. If you have to travel via Bariloche Airport, we will have a transfer service or member of PRG’s staff pick you up and transfer you to your lodge. The contracted driver (or guide) knows where he is going and will drive you safely to your destination. You will

find your guide or shuttle driver just outside of baggage claim holding a sign with your name on it. This transfer is about three and a half hours to PRG’s Lodge at Trevelin and between two and three hours to most estancias at PRG North. The price of this transfer is estimated at around $125 per person and we should have already arranged price and payment details with you. If you have any questions, speak with a PRG representative upon arrival to your lodge. DEPaRTING aRGENTINa At this time, we hope you have enjoyed your trip very much and are heading home with great memories and less stress! The process is basically the reverse as mentioned upon arrival and you will already be in the “flow” of Argentina and have a good idea of what to expect at each airport. If you have contracted the services of LOL Argentina, you won’t have to worry about anything. If you want to self shuttle or use a taxi, contact us for complete information. FLyING FROM pAtAGONIA tO BUeNOS AIReS PRG and PRG North will confirm your flights prior to your departure and in most cases have boarding passes printed for you the day before your flights. They will also transfer you and check you in at the local airport. You will land in Buenos Aires at Aeroparque Airport about two hours later. If you have arranged for the service, LOL Argentina will be waiting for you just after you pick up your luggage and depart baggage claim with a sign with your name on it. LOL will transfer you to Ezezia International airport, check you in, take you to the security entrance, and point you in the direction to your gate. From this point, you are on your own and the process is simple. You will pass through security, get your passport stamped at immigration, and find your gate to depart. If you are short on time for any reason (LOL Argentina would have already told you how to speed things up) and think you are going to miss your flight

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TRavEL fLOw ChaRT

ChOOSE yOUR TRavEL aGENT aNDBOOK INTERNaTIONaL fLIGhTS

ChOOSE TO STay IN BUENOS aIRES

STay OvERNIGhT IN BUENOS aIRES

ChOOSE TO GO DIRECT TO PaTaGONIa

fLy DIRECTLy hOmE

BOOK DOmESTIC fLIGhT TOPaTaGONIa

BOOK TRaNSfERS fROm DOmESTICaIRPORT TO INTERNaTIONaL aIRPORT

BOaRD fLIGhT aNDENJOy ThE fLIGhT hOmE

BOOK TRaNSfERS fROmINTERNaTIONaL TO DOmESTIC

aIRPORT IN BUENOS aIRES

fLy TO PaTaGONIa TO fISh wITh PRG aND ENJOy yOUR aDvENTURE!!!

BOOK hOTEL

BOOK hOTEL BOOK ENTERTaINmENT

BOOK DOmESTIC fLIGhTS TOPaTaGONIa

BOOK TRaNSfERS fROm DOmESTICaIRPORT TO hOTEL

BOOK TRaNSfERS fROm hOTEL TOINTERNaTIONaL aIRPORT

BOOK TRaNSfERS fROm INTERNaTIONaL aIRPORT

TO hOTEL

BOOK TRaNSfERS fROm hOTELTO DOmESTIC aIRPORT

BOOK ENTERTaINmENT

fLy BaCK TO BUENOS aIRES

due to long lines at security or immigration, don’t be shy and just cut in line! You can likely find a dignitary, pregnant, or elderly line and they will understand that you are late. If you can’t find that line, just cut in line! The security and immigration process normally takes fifteen to twenty minutes at this airport. eZeIZA (eZe) INteRNAtIONAL AIRpORtThere is one section of the airport devoted to Aerolineas Argentina, one devoted to private flights, and another for international carriers such as: American, Delta, United, and Continental. If you are traveling on your own using a Taxi or REMIS, you will normally be dropped at the departure

door of your carrier. You need to proceed and check in. After checking in, proceed upstairs and pass security, pass immigration, and find your gate. There are several places to eat including a spacious Patagonia wine bar and other places to grab a sandwich. There is a large duty free store and you may carry back anything you can purchase from this store on the plane to the USA. US Customs might not allow you in with meat or other food items so it is better to stick to a bottle of wine and other gifts for your loved ones if you find something. You will need to check the aforementioned bottle of wine prior to your next flight so keep that in mind before you buy it.

SELf ShUTTLE IN BUENOS aIRESIf you don’t mind paying a little extra for a friendly meet and greet after a long flight; piece of mind if you have lost luggage or a delayed flight; airport assistance to get checked in and to your gate; money exchange assistance (they can do this in the car); continual communication with PRG and our logistics experts; and a little information about what’s going on in the Argentina along the way, please book LOL Argentina and have them handle everything for you. You really don’t have to worry about anything.

If you are looking for a cheaper option and are happy to or capable of handling everything on your own, there are options. At both airports there are booths to contract shuttles to downtown hotels or the international or domestic airport. At Ezeiza international airport, you will find these transfer services just outside of customs doors and before meeting the general public. At Aeroparque domestic airport you will find this service inside baggage claim and before meeting the general public. There should be several transfer choices. We prefer Manuel Tienda Leon

or Transfer Express and they both provide the same service - shuttle from one airport to the other or to a downtown hotel. They are safe and secure and the best way to get a transfer on your own. Be sure to always request a private car and follow their directions to meet your driver. Both take credit cards for payment and a one-way transfer should cost between $50 to $75 to get from one airport to the other.

Traveler beware! The service comes with a nice car and a good driver; however, your driver will not speak English, will not check you in at the airport, and will not help you should you have any issues with your flights or luggage. You are completely on your own. Because the transfer services are “non guided” they are able to offer the service at a discounted rate. If you speak a little Spanish, have traveled to Argentina before and can easily navigate both airports, and are adventurous this service can save you money. It will not save you time and will not help you in the event you have a problem along the way.

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PRG NORThPRG North, unlike other PRG programs, uses up to eight different and independent estancias throughout the region. Your guide (or a contracted transfer service) will pick you up at the airport and take you directly to the estancia to begin your trip. Rest assured, we have planned months in advance for your arrival and PRG North will provide each guest with everything they will need for fishing throughout their stay including: dry bag, wader bag, waders, boots, rods, and reels. PRG North also provides each guest with a detailed itinerary prior to their departure from home so that they know what to expect if they are staying at multiple locations. Upon arrival to the airport, you will be provided a welcome packet with the same detailed itinerary (updated if anything has changed since the itinerary was mailed to you), estancia information specific to your stay, fishing license, and some custom PRG amenities. Should you have any questions about your schedule prior to your trip please email Alex Knull or Nerina Flego (prgnorth@gmail.com).

PRG UNPLUGGED CamPING TRIPSPRG’s camping trips are deluxe, full service, and all-inclusive. Large spacious tents are shared between two guests. Each guest will enjoy an oversized cot, cotton sheets, down comforter, pillow, fresh towels, and a robe. Each guest will also be provided with amenities like soap, shampoo, and a personal roll of paper towels and toilet paper. The camp is well lit and includes a hot pressurized shower and comfortable and private bathroom facility. Each guest will also be provided with everything needed to survive in the wilderness including a fully stocked bar, fine Malbecs, and professional chef to prepare all meals. It is not possible to take all of your luggage on the camping trip and some will be left at PRG’s office or an estancia prior to departure. It is recommended that guests have a small bag to separate three days of clothing and personal items like a shaving or bathroom kit for the camp. PRG provides each guest with a large NRS dry bag to transport their clothing and personal items and to keep them dry at all times. Guests will need to take all fishing gear and it is important to have warm clothes, a rain jacket, waders, and also clothing for warm weather. Those fishing items and extra layers should already be packed in your daily fishing dry bag - also provided by PRG upon arrival - and will go in the guide boat along with your fishing equipment. You might want to bring an extra flashlight or headlamp although those are provided for you. Full American breakfasts and dinners are served in the main tent which can be heated in case of cool weather or served outside under the stars as is the norm at PRG Unplugged! Guests are also welcome to bring all their electronic gadgets like iPads, iPods, cellular phones, and cameras. The Unplugged camp comes with a 1000kw reduced noise generator with multiple socket cord to charge all your personal items and is used sparingly to prevent noise. A small Bluetooth sound system is also available in case your favorite artist is preferred over the sound of silence.

PRG offers programs in three different regions and use ten different lodges and estancias depending on each custom designed trip. Each lodge is unique in what they offer and you should read more about the lodges at www.patagoniariverguides.com to see more about amenities and photos of the lodges themselves. The chart below will answer several frequently asked questions about each lodge or estancia. Please review the list with information about electricity, cell service (and the carrier that provides the service), internet access, single rooms, and non fishing activities available from each lodge. If you have any questions or want more information about specific lodges contact Julian Ferman or Nerina Flego. Also, please be sure to fill out you pre-trip information form by CLICkING HeRe 90 days prior to your departure to ensure that we know the most about you, your particular needs, preferences, and special requests prior to your arrival with PRG.

PRG’S LODGE aT TREvELIN PRG’s Lodge at Trevelin is the most complete of all the lodges and offers all guests single rooms complimentary and amenities that guests would expect at fine hotels. Your trip at Trevelin is all-inclusive and you won’t need to worry about a single detail. If you are interested in joining the PRG Whiskey Club, please carry a bottle of whiskey for PRG’s Lodge at Trevelin and enjoy “free” access to PRG’s high-end whiskey selection. Guests may bring whatever they want such as a single malt scotch, special american whiskey or bourbon, tequila, or other spirit. Currently, we have a collection of over 80 choices in our bar. Recent import restrictions in Argentina have led to a diminished supply of whiskey and fine spirits within Argentina, so if you are planning to bring a bottle, don’t wait until you.

PRG aT TRES vaLLES LODGE Tres Valles offers guests four double occupancy suites and one of the most amazing views in all of Patagonia. Guests of Tres Valles will enjoy an incredible all-inclusive service from the time they arrive. PRG supplies all fishing equipment, tackle, dry bags, and fishing license. It is important to send your sizes in advance so that we can have your gear reserved for you. You should fill out this pre-trip information document by CLICkING HeRe 90 days prior to your departure. Tres Valles is aprox. two and a half hours south of PRG’s Lodge at Trevelin and the Esquel Airport. Guests will be picked up by their guide at the lodge or airport and transferred to Tres Valles (or by a contracted transfer service). In most cases, guests will pass by PRG’s Lodge at Trevelin (if they are not staying at Trevelin first) to pick up their equipment and gear and to ensure that they have everything they will need for their stay at Tres Valles. If guests are staying at Trevein first, they will fish their way to Tres Valles and will already have all their gear and license. Please contact Julian Ferman (prgtravel@hotmail.com) if you have any questions or need more information about Tres Valles, travel, or logistics.

LODGE SPECIfIC INfORmaTION

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Horse BackRiding

Estancia Activities

Visitsto towns

MuesueumVisits

Cultural Tours

Bird WatchingHiking River

RaftingNational Park Visit

RockClimbing

CookingClasses

HuntingProgramGolfing

Contact for price

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hUNTING GEaR aND CLOThING• Field Pants or chaps for brush and spines• Hunters Orange (hat and vest)• Comfortable boots (goretex or waterproof preferred)• Shooting glasses, gloves, ear plugs• Camouflage Clothing and jacket for stalking (Red Stag)• Binoculars (Red Stag)

mISCELLaNEOUS • Personal medications, ibuprofen, allergy medicines, etc.• US Currency, credit cards, valid passport, and copy of passport• Digital camera and charger. We have 220-volt to 110-volt converters!• Bottle of special whiskey, scotch, or other preferred spirit• Travel coffee mug if you like to drink coffee on the road• Binoculars and bird book

CamPING GEaR aND CLOThING• Head lamp & small flashlight• Crocks or Sandals to slip on and off easily• Small bag to pack 3-4 days of clothing• Satellite Phone if you need to be in touch

NOTICE!Argentine law requires that you enter the country with new boots to prevent the spread of Didymo, whirling disease and New Zealand mud snails. we have a complete selection of wading boots for your use free of charge, or you can bring a new pair.

PROTECT yOUR SKIN!pack plenty of sunscreen for your body, face, lips and hands. It is recommended that you use a buff and sungloves as the sun is much stronger than other places in the world.

PRG whISKEy CLUBBring a bottle of whiskey for pRG’s Lodge at trevelin whiskey bar or to enjoy at other lodges. Our programs are all-inclusive, but if you want to enjoy “free” access to pRG’s high-end whiskey bar, bring a single malt or special american whiskey or bourbon. Currently, we have a collection of over 80 single malts and other whiskeys. Recent import restrictions in Argentina have led to a diminished supply of whiskey and fine spirits, so if you are planning to bring a bottle, don’t wait until you get to Argentina as the selection is limited.

fIShING GEaR aND CLOThING• Polarized sunglasses• Breathable waders, NEW wading boots without studs see blue box to the right…• Good quality breathable rain jacket • Fleece pants, sweaters, fleece jacket, capilene underwear (layering system)• Fleece or wool fingerless gloves and stocking hat• Light wool socks for waders and neoprene wading socks for wet wading• Long sleeved quick dry fishing shirts and quick dry fishing pants• Fishing hat, sun gloves, buff, sun block, and lip sunscreen

TaCKLE• A fast action 6-weight rod is ideal for most all of our programs in Patagonia. • A 7wt or 8wt rod might be helpful in throwing sinking lines, and a 5wt might be useful for small dries and for fishing spring creeks. • Leaders: 7.5 foot 3X (3-pack)

• Tippett: 0X-6X regular monofilament and 3X-5X fluorocarbon • Sinking Lines: 200-grain 24-foot sink tip • Floating Lines: New or like new weight forward floating lines. • Small hip pack or vest with nippers, forceps, fly floatent, line cleaner, etc.

fLIES• Fat Alberts: black and tan• Beetles: (8-16) Black and peacock • Chernobyl Ants: (6) assorted colors• Grasshoppers: (8-10) a good variety • Flying Ants: (14-16) Black• Bead Head Prince: (10-18)• Bead Head Pheasant Tail: (10-18)• Bead Head Copper Johns: (10-18) copper and red• Scuds: (14-18) Olive• Girdle Bugs: (6-10) Brown and green• Wooly Buggers: (2-4) black, brown, and olive with cone or bead heads• Wooly Buggers: (2-4) black, brown, and olive with white rubber legs• Zonkers: (2-4) white, natural, grey

RECOmmENDED GEaR, TaCKLE, aND fLIES

PRG is proud to provide guests with rods, reels, waders, boots, dry bags, flies, leaders and tippet, waders and wading boots throughout their stay; however, it is recommended that guests bring their favorite waders, rods, and reels because there is no guarantee that PRG’s loaner equipment will fit everyone perfectly.

What we provide:• Winston Rods• Simms Waders, Boots, Dry Bag, Wader Bag • Hatch Reels• Scientific Anglers Lines • Trouthunter Tippet & Leaders• ALL Flies!

PRG PROvIDES aLL GEaR, TaCKLE, aND fLIES INCLUDED IN ThE PRICE Of ThE TRIP.

25info@patagoniariverguides.com406.960.4066 www.patagoniariverguides.com

27info@patagoniariverguides.com406.960.4066 www.patagoniariverguides.com

aDITIONaL INfORmaTION

GRaTUITIESYour guides and staff of Patagonia River Guides will always work hard to ensure you have the most memorable flyfishing trip. All members of Patagonia River Guides pride themselves on personal service, work ethic, and attention to details. A nice tip to show your gratitude for their efforts is greatly appreciated. A general gratuity guideline is +/-15% of the cost of your trip contributed to our tip pool. The tip pool is divided between guides, assistant guides, kitchen staff, and housekeeping who assist you throughout your trip. Please bring US Dollars for tips.

aLLERGIES, SPECIaL NEEDS, mEDICaL CONDITIONSThere are very few biting insects including mosquitoes in Patagonia. At some times during the season, there are non-aggressive yellow jackets and horseflies present. If you are allergic to bees, bring your anti-reaction medication. You might find similar allergies to wild grasses, trees, and flowers during some seasons. Bring your normal allergy medicine if you have “hay fever”. The water is drinkable throughout Argentina and will not make you sick like you can expect in other Latin American countries. If you have any existing medical conditions, mobility issues, or special needs that we should be aware of, please let us know in advance so any special arrangements can be made.

US DOLLaRS & CREDIT CaRDSUS Dollars are easily exchanged into Argentine Pesos in Buenos Aires and Patagonia. Credit cards are readily accepted at most locations throughout Argentina and ATM machines dispense Argentine Pesos from your credit or debit card for personal shopping (There are many ATM’s in Argentina, but there is a limit of about $250 USD per transaction and the official exchange rate will cost you as much as 40% more than the “unofficial” cash rate). Travelers checks and personal checks are impossible to exchange in Argentina. It is recommended that you take enough US Dollars for gratuities and any additional fees to be paid at the time of service. If you book with LOL Argentina, they will change US Dollars for Argentine Pesos upon arrival. It is best to order pesos in advance. Your transfer agent or guide will have them available for you at the best possible exchange rate. Changing them at the airport bank offers the poorest exchange rate in all of Argentina.

PaSSPORT aND RECIPROCITy fEEYou will need a current passport to travel to Argentina. Visas are not required for your trip to Argentina; however there is a “reciprocity fee” required for inbound travelers from Australia, Canada, and the United States. The good news is that this entrance fee is good for multiple entries over a ten-year period. THE RECIPROCITY FEE MUST BE PAID ONLINE BEFORE YOUR ARRIVAL TO ARGENTINA or it is possible they will refuse your entry. You can pay the fee by following THIS LINK. If you have been to Argentina before, you should already have a receipt of this fee in your passport. Please double check to make sure you are up to date and don’t forget to carry the receipt of purchase of the fee.

TRavELING wITh yOUR GUNSIf you plan to travel with your own shotgun for quail hunting, the process is straightforward; however, you should work with PRG’s travel experts and with LOL Argentina. They will provide you with all necessary paperwork and information.

29info@patagoniariverguides.com406.960.4066 www.patagoniariverguides.com

PRG’S - faQ’S1. wILL I havE CELL SERvICE? DO yOU havE wI-fI? DO I NEED a SaTELLITE PhONE? PRG Lodge at Trevelin has fixed phone, continuous cell service, and wi-fi. In addition, you will pass through cell service in many locations on the way to fishing. Devices like Blackberry, Iphone, etc. work well here and you can download your messages and also send from your device. The phone carrier in our area is mostly Movistar, if you want to check with your carrier about compatibility. PRG Lodge at Tres Valles Lodge has a fixed phone and wi-fi but no cell service on-site. There is sporadic cell service available depending on your daily fishing location. Please consult Nerina Flego (prgnorth@gmail.com) about cell phone coverage, wi-fi, and phone service at the different estancias offered by PRG North. You can also see availability of cell service and wi-fi on page 18 for each lodge. You don’t need to waste money on a satellite phone unless you need to call whenever you want to from isolated locations like PRG Unplugged, which has absolutely no communication because of the isolated locations we fish. 2. whaT If SOmEONE NEEDS TO GET a hOLD Of mE IN ThE CaSE Of aN EmERGENCy? Make a copy of the contact information in this packet and pass it along to your loved ones. The absolute best way to receive a message is by email. Please have your office and loved ones send urgent messages to prgtravel@hotmail.com and prgnorth@gmail.com. You can rest assured that you will get the message just as quickly as a phone call and those emails are attended to 24/7. Please have your office and loved ones specify the emergency because if it is not quite an emergency, you might have your day of fishing interrupted for something routine - or otherwise not an emergency!

3. whaT’S ThE wEaThER GOING TO BE LIKE? whaT aRE ThE DaILy TEmPERaTURES? Patagonia is much like Montana and it can be more of a guess than a science. You should be prepared in all months throughout the season for any kind of weather. You should always pack a rain jacket and use the “layering system” for any situation. Any day or week of the year can be warmer than 80 degrees and cooler than 40 degrees and weather can change quickly so being flexible and ready for any situation is best. Long sleeve quick-dry shirts and pants are standard these days and offer the ultimate in flexibility. Carry sun gloves and a buff if you have them and always lather up with sunscreen as the sun is intense in Patagonia. 4. whaT fLIES ShOULD I BRING? This pre-trip travel package has a list of frequently used flies. That being said, we provide ALL flies, leaders, and tippet for every guest. You don’t need to bring any flies; however, if you are concerned that you might need or want to try something, select one box of basic trout flies that you would use in the western USA in the unlikelihood that you are separated from your guide for a few minutes. 5. whaT RODS, LINES, waDERS, aND BOOTS ShOULD I BRING? It is up to you...we provide all rods, reels, waders, and boots for each guest. If you have rods and reels you like, the best all around rod is a 9-foot-6-weight for Patagonia. We recommend new weight forward lines and 24-foot 200 grain sinking tips for the rods. Reels are not that important really but good waders and boots are. Bring the best waders and boots you can and make sure your boots are new (or like new - cleaned with bleach and dry prior to your departure). We provide women’s and men’s Simms Waders and boots from size 6 to size 14. If you have a particular size and fit, it is always better to have your own equipment.

6. ShOULD I BRING TRavELERS ChECKS? hOw mUCh CaSh DO I NEED? DO I NEED aRGENTINE PESOS? CaN I USE CREDIT CaRDS? You will need enough cash to pay for some personal shopping in Buenos Aires and Patagonia. If you need a shuttle from Bariloche, you should also have cash for this. Cash is appreciated for PRG guides and staff gratuity and we recommend +/- 15% tip to be split by guides and staff. You can use credit cards in most places in Argentina but it is recommend to have some Argentine pesos for taxis, small shops, tips, etc if you are staying away from PRG’s Lodges for a day or two. LOL Argentina will change dollars for pesos when they pick you up at the airport - if you request they do this in advance. You’ll get a great exchange rate and won’t have to deal with any money exchange services. 7. DO yOU havE LaUNDRy SERvICE? You can get small loads of laundry done from one day to the next for a minimal charge of about $20 per load at most lodges and estancias. If you leave your laundry before going fishing, it is likely that your laundry will be done by the next day. At some lodges, laundry is dried the old fashioned way so be patient with cool damp weather as drying can be delayed. 8. DO I NEED a CONvERTER? whaT KIND Of ELECTRICITy DOES ThE LODGE havE? Argentina uses 220 volt electricity, and every lodge has the converters you will need to charge your digital camera, your computer, handheld devices, however, you might need one at a hotel in Buenos Aires. In this case, they will probably provide you with one, but carrying a compatible converter might not be a bad idea. Most lodges have electricity 24 hours per day; however, some Estancias in the North are not connected to the grid and operate on Diesel generators (which are generally turned OFF at night and during the day when you are fishing) or hydroelectric turbines (which run 24hrs). They all run on 220 volts. If you have any

particular questions or issues such as a CPAP machine, please let us know in advance so that we are prepared for you. 9. why ShOULD I USE PRG’S RECOmmENDED TRavEL aGENTS aND ThOSE TRaNSfER SERvICES IN BUENOS aIRES? In the event that you have lost or delayed luggage, delayed flights, canceled flights, flight changes, or any other issues, LOL Argentina and their staff will take care of your every need and can work miracles at times. Their basic services: meet and greet, transfers, airport check-ins, guided tours, hotel reservations and money exchange services are excellent and they will ensure that you make your connection to Patagonia to fish and to get back home. If you use them, you can consider them our concierge service in Buenos Aires. They can help you with about anything and are there just for that purpose! If something goes wrong, you’ll know exactly why they are the best in the business and you will be glad that you paid a little bit extra for their services. 10. ShOULD I STay IN BUENOS aIRES BEfORE OR afTER my TRIP? If you have the time, it isn’t a bad idea to rest if you arrive tired and to see the interesting city of Buenos Aires. If any of your flights are delayed (or luggage) you’ll look like a genius as you will likely not miss any fishing and will make it back home when you said you would. Many can’t afford the extra day. If you‘re one that can’t, PRG and our agents will do everything within our power to make sure you make your connection home or to Patagonia. If you have any serious obligations after your fishing trip, please let us know so that we can recommend flying from Bariloche. It takes at least three hours and has additional costs, but you are certain to make it home barring the most horrific weather or other disaster that won’t allow planes to land or take off.

31info@patagoniariverguides.com406.960.4066 www.patagoniariverguides.com

• Rely on Julian Ferman and Nerina Flego to help you get to and from Patagonia.• Use our recommended travel agents to make travel seamless with PRG.• Purchase trip Insurance in case you have an unforeseen emergency and must cancel.• Give yourself plenty of time in your travels in case of airline delays.• Make a copy and call contact info numbers and/or email if you have any problems.• Make sure the data and calling features on your phone are turned on and can connect with “Claro” in San Martin de los Andes and “Movistar” in the Trevelin and Rio Pico Areas.• Travel with valid Passport and copies of first two pages in separate location in case lost or stolen.• Make a few copies of you itinerary and contact info for your family and a put a copy in each of your checked bags.• Pack your carry on baggage carefully.• Have an extra change of versatile clothes (toothbrush, underwear, fishing shirt and pants) in your carry on if possible.• Confirm your flights 24-48 hours prior to departure. Have PRG do this in Esquel or San Martín.• Travel with some small bills to tip baggage handlers, taxi drivers, etc.• Make sure you take a “radio taxi” in Buenos Aires or have someone call you a radio taxi or Remis.• Change some dollars into pesos at a secure location or order money ahead of time from LOL Argentina (if you use them).• Relax, you are in Argentina! It is customary to cut in line; although, no one is ever in a hurry. Things might look disorganized -they are-don’t try to rush things or you you will just get frustrated.• Get used to eating and sleeping later than normal.

TRavEL TIPS

CONTaCT INfO

PaTaGONIa RIvER GUIDESPatagonia River Guides P.O. Box 141 (mailing) 2000 Peck Lane (shipping) Melrose, MT 59743

PRG aRGENTINaRuta 71 KM1 (9203) Trevelin,Chubut Argentina

PRG LODGE aT TREvELIN aND RIO PICOPRG Lodge: +54 2945 480407 Julian Ferman: +54 92945 520005 Rance Rathie Cell: +54 92945 548353 Travis Smith Cell: +54 92945 557476

PRG NORTh PRIvaTE ESTaNCIa PROGRamNerina Flego (San Martin Office): +54 92944 609549 Alex Cell: +54 92944 714413

USa CONTaCTSTravis Smith Cell: 208.520.3034 (May to December) PRG Office: 406.960.4066

EmaILSJulian Ferman - Manager Trevelin: prgtravel@hotmail.com Nerina Flego - Manager PRG North: prgnorth@gmail.com Rance Rathie: rrrathie@hotmail.com Travis Smith: tcoltersmith@hotmail.com Alex Knüll: alexknull@gmail.com General Email: info@patagoniariverguides.com

33info@patagoniariverguides.com406.960.4066 www.patagoniariverguides.com

whaT TO DO IN BUENOS aIRES

PRG aND LOL aRGENTINa’SBUENOS aIRES RECOmmENDaTIONS

hOTELSSerena Hotel | Recoleta BoutiqueMIO Buenos Aires | Recoleta BoutiqueInter Sur Recoleta | Recoleta BudgetAlgodon Mansion | Recoleta BoutiqueNuss | Palermo BoutiqueCasa Sur Bellini | Palermo Boutique

BaRSRecoleta | RetiroPortezuelo | Vicente López 2160The Shamrock | Rodríguez Peña 1220Killkennys | M. T. de Alvear 399Down Town Matias | San Martin 979Buller Brewing Co. | Ortiz 1827El Gran Danzon | Libertad 1161

palermo Unico | Honduras 5604El Carnal | Niceto Vega 5511Rio Café | Honduras 4772Magdalenas Party | Thames 1795Isabel | Uriarte 1664Franks Bar | Arévalo 1445

RESTRUaNTSMeAt La Brigada | Estados Unidos 465 | San Telmo El Mirasol | Posadas 1032 | La Recova RecoletaCabaña Las Lilas | A. M. de Justo 516 | Pto MaderoLa Cabrera | Cabrera 5127 | PalermoMiranda | Costa Rica 5602 | Palermo La Dorita | Humboldt 1911 | Palermo

ItALIAN Sottovoce | A. M. de justo 176 | Puerto MaderoSottovoce | Libertador 1098 | RecoletaPiegari | Posadas 1042 | La Recova

La Pecora Nera | Ayacucho 1785 | Recoleta Guido | Cerviño 3943 | PalermoIl Ballo Del Mattone | Gorriti 5934 | Palermo SeAFOOD Fervor | Posadas 1519 | RecoletaTancat | Paraguay 645 | DowntownSorrento | Posadas 1053 | La Recova Sorrento | A. M. de Justo 410 | Pto Madero

pIZZA | eMpANADAS | Casual LunchPiola | Libertad 1078 | RecoletaPiola | Gorriti 5751 | Palermo Filo | San Martin 975 | Downtown Retiro Romario | Vicente López 2102 | Recoleta

AUtHOR CUISINEI central Market | Pierina Dealessi 699 | Pto MaderoSucre | Sucre 676 | Las CañitasThymus | Lerma 525 | Palermo

peRUvIANBardot | Honduras 5237 | PalermoMoche | Nicaragua 5901 | Palermo

FReNCHNectarine | Vicente López 1661 Loc.15 | RecoletaCroque | Madame Honduras 5574 | PalermoBrasserie | Petanque Defensa 595 | San Telmo FReNCH | JApANeSeTô | Costa Rica 6000 | Palermo

JApANeSe | peRUvIANOsaka | Soler 5608 | PalermoKaisen | Guatemala 4665 | PalermoSipan | Paraguay 624 | DowntownSipan | Uriarte 1648 | Palermo

INDIANBengal | Arenales 837 | Loi Suites Arenales | Retiro

ThINGS TO DOtAke A CIty tOUREnjoy a city tour featuring major sights including the Colón Theater Opera House, the Metropolitan Cathedral, the Government Palace (Casa Rosada), the historical Tortoni Café, the colorful La Boca neighborhood, which is know as the tough port barrio where the working class heart of the city was located in the 1900s, living in the colorful convetillos. Also, you will not miss the San Telmo area, home and birthplace of the passionate tango. At the northern area of the city you will visit Palermo neighborhood with its trees, gardens and lakes, and the Recoleta area, with its famous cemetery. This tour can be customized according to the passengers’ needs and desires.

tAke A DeLtA tOURThe tour will take you for a very nice and pleasant car ride around the northern wealthy neighborhoods of Bs. As., visiting the areas of Vicente Lopez, Martinez, San Isidro & Beccar, on your way to Tigre. Once you reach our destination, you will visit the Puerto de Frutos, a traditional local market where long ago fruits and crafts were produced in the islands and commercialized throughout the country. Nowadays it is the prime location for the manufacture of furniture for the people of BA.

GUIDeD tOUR COLóN tHeAteR OpeRA HOUSewAtCH A FOOtBALL GAMe wAtCH A pOLO MAtCH | pALeRMO HIpóDROMO

MUSeUMSMuseum of Latin American Art (MALBA)National Museum of Modern Art (MNBA)National Museum of Decorative Art (MNAD)City Museum of Contemporary Art (MACBA)City Museum of Modern Art (MAMBA)PROA FundationFORTABAT Fundation

PLaCES TO ShOPSilvia and Mario | LeatherCasa Lopez | LeatherArandú | Leather and SilverPrüne | Women’s Hand bags and ShoesPeter Kent | Women’s Jackets, Hand bags and ShoesMishka | Women’s ShoesOggi | Men’s ShoesGuido | Men’s and Women’s ShoesLa Martina | Men’s and Women’s ClothingEtiqueta Negra |Men ’s and Women’s Clothing and ShoesMercado de las Pulgas | AntiquesArte Ethnico Argentina | Ricardo Paz original furniture | PalermoSan Telmo Plaza | Antiques

We are looking forward to fishing with you this coming season in Patagonia. We hope that we have covered every aspect of your coming trip in this pre-trip packet. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us, our in-house travel pros, or our travel agents to help you plan your adventure, to get more information, or to answer any questions. It is our desire to make your trip planning easy. Get ready for a great adventure and flyfishing trip. wE’RE waITING TO ShOw yOU ThE ULTImaTE fLyfIShING aDvENTURE!

Alex Knull

THe ULTiMaTe fLYfiSHinG aDVenTUre

www.PaTaGONIaRIvERGUIDES.COm

INfO@PaTaGONIaRIvERGUIDES.COm