ETHOS

The pursuit of really meaningful travel means getting under the skin of city or the country as quickly as you can. Soaking up the experience, an experience that reflects argentine traditions and culture in their original atmosphere. Argentina is the most visited country in South America for a reason.

Argentina is a country which is as diverse as any other on this planet, there are so many reasons to come to here. Robertsons have decided to move away from a large tour service provider, and instead offer a completely unique touring service. Our aim is build a program that suits the individual needs and wants of our clients. Argentina is an enormous country, chile long as is Uruguay small.and with time normally being the the factor governing most people schedules we aim to tailor your needs to what is suitable and most representative of the interests you hold.

When to Travel

As you will be aware the southern hemisphere the seasons are the opposite to those in the northern hemisphere. As a country Argentina holidays in December and January called the summer holidays; winter holidays are taken in July, during these times local tourism can mean unjustifiable price hikes or just no activities due to the especially high level of demand. One should not be put off coming in those months especially when one considers the enormity of Argentina, but for specific activities it should be in the back of your mind. January and February are notoriously hot in Buenos Aires and most people escape to the beaches or mountains.

KEY: Temperature - Rainfall

Aconcagua

I will try to persuade,
All the vineyards of the world,
To kneel before me
And pray before me
And pray for the wine of Peace.
I will have a taste of History,
Resembling the Last Supper,
To unveil the Malbec that captivated me
Or the Syrah that kept me in your glass.
And if the source of my happiness was a Merlot
Or the passionate Cabernet, perhaps,
I will spread my colossal wings over Biblical wines
Showing life has just begun.
I will try to ease the mysteries
Of the ones no longer here,
In the divinity of the Andes.
My sentimental Cordilleras*
That keeps me company in my loneliness
At a few and man times over.
I will drink in the name of the gods
During a prolonged rendezvous
Under the light of the condors,
My mountaineers, our muleteers.
Horses that listen to my secrets
And men of multicolour races,
Challenging my snowcapped eyes.
We will drink the wines of peace
At the table of History.
Let us have a toast at my Tebaida*
Tending to the heaven of grapes
In the land of sensuality,
To leave wounded worlds behind.
Odes will flow to smiles
And the wine of peace will have no end.

*Extensive mountain range stretching between Argentina and Chile.
*Resting place of General San Martin.

Poem by Marcela Muñez from her book Poetry of wine

Flights and accommodation

In Robertson's we are not currently involved in the international side of your flights due to both regulatory restrictions however we can recommend agents that we use and have found to be excellent. In practice we do liaise with your flight-booking agent to ensure 100% continuity. Argentina is serviced by most of the major service providers. Domestic flights we always arrange for our clients as we can source the best prices. If you or your group prefers private air transport we again can arrange this.

Our clients like to switch between a range of accommodations ranging from sleeping in a bodega to a private chalet on an estancia (estate) to 5 star international city or resort hotels. Robertson vast range of contacts enables us to perfect the choice without being linked to a certain hotel group or accommodation provider therefore never compromising your options.

Services and Guides

We will transport you from the moment you set foot in Argentina until the time you depart. We own two vehicles, a 4x4 all-terrain vehicle and a Mercedes E Class Estate. We have at our disposal two dedicated drivers

One of the major disappointments people feel when they travel is that their specific needs wants and interests are not being catered for. We at Robertson's will ensure this does not happen. Preparation is the key and this is why we like to have a minimum of 6 weeks prior to arrival to ensure this is done. Communication is foremost in our formula to give you what you want, if we cannot provide it we certainly will tell you.

It has been our experience in the tours that we have organized that the client really does know best. Robertson's do use third parties for specific excursions but rest assured these are proven and excellent counterparts. Our business depends on your complete satisfaction and word of mouth recommendations. Travel Insurance is vital and can protect you and your group whatever the situation.

ESTANCIAS

There are a lot of estancias (estates) in Argentina offering many options for the our clients with the increasing importance of tourism in Argentina and the huge upkeep of these estates they are now offering the chance for people to stay in them. At the top end one can expect to pay anything from 500 us$ per night all the way down to ranch like accommodation where you can experience a more rustic way of life. Some are sumptuously furnished and have the amenities of a first class world hotel. Others maintain the attraction of the colonial style, with an austere and refined elegance. Each estate has its own characteristics depending on scenery, farm size, architectural style and type of food. Some of these country houses are incredibly impressive buildings in the style of French chateaux, German castles or English manor houses. Many of these Estancias are country homes only just beginning to open their doors to international tourism.

Stopping off at points of interest and spending several nights at these country estates on your way to Mendoza is a treat in itself. What one constantly finds in Argentina is there is very little tourist fatigue.

Helicopter Flights over , the Andes and Patagonia

We do organize custom-tailored trips to view the highest peaks of the Andes, remarkable landscapes in Patagonia, as well as over Buenos Aires and other destinations of your choice. There is concern from many areas of the damage caused by helicopters accordingly we have stopped offering flights over the Iguazu falls due to the impact they may have.

Mountain Trekking/Horse Riding

Argentina is the land of the gaucho. (Horseman) The country has an equestrian history second to none. In fact the Spanish Conquistadors brought in horses in the 1530’s where they adapted incredibly well.

SPORTS

The vast array of activities we can offer you is limitless; our specialty is of course Argentinean wines, and premium travel services. Coming to Argentina is in itself an adventure; the variety of terrains can be experienced throughout the country.

Football

Football is inarguably Argentina’s national pastime, whether it is playing it, watching it, arguing about it you will be hard pressed to escape football. Some of the best teams in South America are to be found in Argentina and while you travel with us why not let us take you to a local match or if the timing works an international fixture, Boca juniors and River plate are well matched rivals and the atmosphere at these matches has to be experienced to believe.

Golf

We offer you access to numerous courses. There are international level courses and often accommodation can be arranged. There are a several Country houses (estancias) that have their own courses.

Fishing

The fishing Season is generally September – May, certain areas are more temporal than others. All methods of fishing are practiced but fly-casting has become much more of the norm. Mountain river spots are in abundance and one can expect Rainbow, Brooke and Brown trout, Salmon and Dorado are listed among local favourites. Robertson use local experts in both the Cuyo and Iguazu National park; these professionals can provide you with all your fishing needs.

Polo

Polo is a very important social pastime and like most countries it is played by the higher echelon of society but in Argentina everyone appreciates the game. With some of the worlds finest players and a long equestrian history watching an important polo match in the Buenos Aires stadium in Palermo or a provincial centre is fantastic.

ANTIQUES & ARCHITECTURE

The Paris of South America is how many guidebooks describe Buenos Aires. The architectural styles of Buenos Aires have more to do with the fact that it was built in the European fashion of that time. Argentina and Buenos Aires as is capital was the worlds 7th biggest economy at the turn of the 20th century. The centre of Buenos Aires reflects this with amazing detail and the fine estilio Frances (French style) or Beaux Artes (Beautiful Arts), and numerous exquisite deco buildings compete with later cubist and rationalistic styles. The city's neighbourhoods (barrios) are compact and each barrio is highly individual, each with its own charm and styles. Lectures, tours and guiding can give you a comprehensive knowledge of the city.

TANGO LESSONS & SHOWS

Going to Buenos Aires and not immersing yourself in the world of tango would be a tragedy, one can gain a profound understanding of the Portenan psyche of today when one understands more about this melancholic and erotic conversation in dance. The first written music dates from 1857; there are a plethora of myths and legends surrounding tango and the origins of the word itself. Its shift away from the underprivileged and poor meeting in brothels or tenement courtyards in an around the docks. From San Telmo district to the sumptuous dance halls of Paris is a fascinating journey. There are a wide range of Tango clubs, schools and shows to choose from. If you want to dip your toe into the tango, there are many levels of tuition and experiences to choose from. There are many small authentic clubs that exist for the dancers of today young and old. Buenos Aires has a very colourful nightlife. Be warned though things don’t start warming up until the early hours.

ECOLOGICAL TOURISM

In its purest sense is defined as travelling to uncontaminated natural areas for study tours enjoying direct contact with nature. Couple this with responsible and sustainable tourism one can not only enjoy the free and natural environment but also seek to ensure these areas of outstanding beauty and rich fauna and flora are kept for generations to come. Robertson's genuinely seek clientele who wish to maintain these natural gifts and also supports any organization that is respectful to its immediate environment. There are numerous ecologically friendly farms, estancias that are continually reinvesting in reforestation and organic ventures. It will be our pleasure to provide you with the necessary tools to make your trip to the Argentine memorable but also responsible.

HIGHLIGHTS

Here we just want to give you an overview of just a few of the areas you may want to visit while you travel.

Mendoza

The capital of the province of the same name is found 1200 kms west of Buenos Aires at the foot of the Andes; this compact and relaxed city offers every amenity to international travellers. Mendoza is home to 70% of Argentina’s fine wine vineyards .Not only is Mendoza the perfect place to be based while we take you on your journey in wine but the surrounding areas offer a host of different opportunities. Remember the frontier with Chile is extremely close and perhaps you would like to take in some Chilean wineries and visit Santiago while you are here.

Iguazu Falls

If you like waterfalls, you have to go to Iguazu! It has bigger volume of water falling than anywhere else in the world and is set in a rich tropical setting. Boat trips and helicopter rides can be arranged and there are numerous walking trails. The ~Iguazu national park is full of natural treasures, over 2000 plant spices, 400 bird varieties. The vegetation is with sub tropical.

Salta and Jujuy

This mountainous region of the North in the Andean foothills has some truly spectacular scenery, colonial architecture and far more evidence of indigenous culture. Salta is acclaimed as Argentina's best-preserved colonial town in fact it derives its name from the Indian word ’sagta’ translated as ‘very beautiful one’. Tours to the Calchaqui Valleys and the Humahuaca Canyon are just a few highlights.

Peninsula Valdes

Natural reserves with species of marine fauna in spectacular concentration, this peninsula located 1,300 Km. south of Buenos Aires it is a meeting point for whales, It is also the worlds most important southern sea elephant colony there are also many sea lion colonies with a rich variety of birds.

Perito Moreno Glacier

This is something everybody should see, like Milford Sound in New Zealand or the Grand Canyon in The U.S. Along with the Iguazu Falls this is the most impressive natural sight in Argentina. The park also houses 12 other glaciers and the magnificent peaks of Fitz-Roy and Cerro Torre. The glacier stretches 16 kilometres from the Patagonia ice field to Largo (lake) Argentina, where the 5 km wide ice wall rises 70 meters above you.

Tierra Del Fuego (land of fire)

Tierra Del Fuego (land of fire) an archipelago of some 75,000 square kilometres this is shared with Chile and was named by explorers who saw fires lit by natives. Tierra del Forego has an abundance of glaciers, snow, lakes and forests. Like Bariloche it operates both in winter and summer and the National Park is of outstanding and untouched beauty. The park is served by the most southerly city in the world Ushuaia. Ushuaia rests on the beagle channel, Famously named after Charles Darwin’s ship ‘The Beagle’ which sailed through here on its way to the Galapagos Islands.

Chile and Uruguay

Both these countries are very easy to travel to and are of course travel destinations in the there own right. If you do have the time available to you then you should look at some of the possibilities. The Wines of Chile of course are drawing lots of attention in the Global market with many international winemakers having invested even before international investors started looking at Argentine Wine regions. There are many more Female winemakers in Chile then there are in Argentina and Chile suffers less from problems such as Hail however they tend to use more chemicals as they sit on the other side of the Andes and tend to receive less Sunlight than their Argentine neighbours.

There are many reasons why we like to show you both these countries, the differences and as far as we are concerned the two countries with such a long border with each other could not be more disparate. Uruguay, again some people do not even realise its existence in the Wine World, but although this sleepy and very small country is relatively unknown we have some fantastic wines which we can introduce you to. If you haven't heard of the Tannat Varietal yet, you soon will, said to be Uruguay's emblem grape, both Argentina and Chile are now discovering that this grape has outstanding results in the right terroir.