We answer your questions
Need help preparing your trip? Here you’ll find answers to the most frequently asked questions before setting off for Chile, Argentina or Patagonia.
Do you have a question about our agency and services?
Opting for Korke means choosing a local agency with extremely in-depth local knowledge.
Our team offers 24/7 assistance via our emergency telephone, as well as a dedicated concierge service. This exclusive service answers all your specific requests during your stay and helps you book restaurants, shows and much more.
With Korke, you get personalized attention for a carefree trip.
There are 4 stages in the construction of your stay to guarantee a tailor-made experience :
- First contact: we talk to you by e-mail or telephone to understand your expectations and desires. This enables us to propose a personalized and coherent itinerary.
- Drawing up the itinerary: after presenting you with this first draft, we adjust it according to your feedback, so that it corresponds perfectly to your wishes.
- Quotation: once we have finalized the itinerary according to your requirements, we will send you the corresponding quotation as soon as possible.
- Reservations: as soon as you’ve confirmed your booking, we’ll take care of the reservations to make your dream holiday a reality.
With the Korke app, you can plan your stay in detail, day by day.
This includes a comprehensive roadmap, suggestions for further visits, restaurant recommendations and other essential information. Its built-in GPS makes it easy to get around.
What’s more, we provide you with a “Road Book” in PDF or paper format, giving you everything you need for a perfect travel experience!
We welcome you personally on arrival or during your stay, depending on the availability of our advisors. This allows us to get to know you and to give you all the information you need to make your stay a success.
During your trip, our team keeps a close eye on your stay and quickly adjust your activities in the event of changes or unforeseen events, such as a change in weather conditions.
What’s more, you have access to a 24/7 emergency hotline staffed by local English-speaking experts.
Our concierge service is designed tomeet all your specific requirements during your trip, offering personalized assistance to satisfy your needs.
Whether you have spontaneous wishes or special requests, we’ll find and book the services you need, so you can make the most of your stay.
With our concierge service, your trip becomes a carefree, unforgettable experience beyond customization.
During your stay, an Internet connection is important for accessing your digital logbook, keeping in touch with your loved ones, navigating with ease and immortalizing every moment of your trip. Korke provides 4 solutions to keep you connected:
- Local SIM card: we’ll provide you with a local SIM card on arrival, enabling you to enjoy a reliable Internet connection during your stay.
- Router : for a stable, shared connection, we can supply you with a portable router that will set up a Wi-Fi network that you can connect to on several devices, ideal for when you’re on the move.
- International roaming: if you want to use your usual mobile package, check the international roaming options with your operator – beware of high charges!
- E-SIM subscription: if you prefer to use an e-SIM, you can subscribe to one before you leave, ensuring hassle-free connectivity.
All our offers include all domestic flights, with cabin and hold baggage for each passenger. International flights are not included.
We offer you the flexibility to choose the payment method that suits you best.
- Credit card: you can pay by credit card or AMEX in euros via our partner Banque Populaire Rives de Paris. By using this method, you will also benefit from the insurance associated with your means of payment.
- International bank transfer: you can make a transfer in US$ to Chile to pay for your stay.
- International bank transfer: if you prefer, you can also make a bank transfer in dollars, or Chilean pesos directly to Chile.
Ask your travel consultant for more information.
We recommend that you first check the insurance included with your bank card to make sure it meets your specific needs. For even more comprehensive protection, consider purchasing additional travel or cancellation insurance.
We’re delighted to be working with our partner Chapka Assurance, specialists in travel insurance for travelers. Together, we can offer you tailored solutions to ensure your peace of mind throughout your trip.
We strongly recommend that you book your trip as soon as possible!
This will enable you to take advantage of better airfares, which are often more advantageous when booked in advance. What’s more, early booking guarantees availability of hotels and activities, especially during peak tourist periods.
Although last-minute bookings are possible, they are subject to availability and may restrict your choice of accommodation and excursions.
For an unforgettable, hassle-free experience, plan and book your trip as soon as possible!
Not at all, it’s not necessary!
Depending on your needs, we can provide you with a private French-speaking guide for your excursions, guaranteeing that you will be accompanied in French throughout your stay.
All our advisors, who help you plan your trip, speak English. What’s more, our assistance and concierge services are always available in English during your stay, ensuring smooth communication and constant support.
Travel with peace of mind – we’ve got you covered!
Do you have a question about your trip to Chile?
Chile opens its doors to you all year round, with ideal seasons for each region:
- Explore the North: the best seasons to visit are from October to December and from mid-March to the end of May, as the period from January to March is subject to rainfall. It’s also possible to travel in the middle of winter, from June to September, as this is the dry season, and the days are generally very sunny at this time, although shorter.
- Discover the South: the best period is from October to April, when the days are longer and the climate milder, but Patagonia also offers unique experiences in winter, with snow-covered scenery from May to September!
- Combine north and south: October to late December or March to mid-April are the ideal periods to enjoy the best weather conditions, both in the north and south of the country.
- Meet the marine wildlife: from October to March, you can observe Magellanic penguins, Humboldt penguins, austral dolphins and the only colony of king penguins in Tierra del Fuego. The peak whale-watching season in the Francisco Coloane Marine Park is from January to April.
Our advisors are available to help you choose the period that best suits your expectations and desires. Please don’ t hesitate to contact us.
To help you prepare for your trip to Chile, here are a few clothing tips:
- Light clothing: for Santiago and the north of the country, where summers are very hot, prefer light, breathable clothing.
- Three-layer technique for the top: adopt the three-layer technique to adapt to climatic variations. Start with thermal underwear, add a fleece, and finish with a waterproof jacket or windbreaker (Goretex type). A compact, technical down jacket can also complement the fleece for extra warmth without cluttering up your suitcase.
- Bottom clothing: waterproof walking pants and thermal tights depending on the activity. Don’t forget gloves and a hat for cooler regions.
- Footwear: bring comfortable shoes (sneakers and sandals) and light, waterproof walking shoes, suitable for the different stages of your trip.
- Sun protection: remember to bring a hat or cap, sunglasses, sunscreen and lip balm to protect you from the sun.
- Mosquito repellent: mosquito spray is recommended, especially in summer in the lake region where horseflies may be present.
To enter Chile, make sure youhave the followingformalities:
- Valid passport: your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay.
- Round-trip air ticket: make sure you have a round-trip air ticket.
- If you’re traveling with a minor: if a minor is traveling with only one parent or with grandparents, an authorization to leave the country signed by the non-accompanying parent(s) is required. Other documents may be required, so check with your consulate.
- Customs form (Agricultural service): fill in the SAG form form, available online the day before or the day of your departure, to facilitate border crossing. You can also complete the form on arrival, provided you have an Internet connection.
Electric current in Chile is 220 volts with a frequency of 50 hertz (Hz). Electrical outlets are type C and L.
Type C: European two-pin round plug
Type L: three-pin round plug.
It’s advisable to bring an adapter for your devices, although most hotels have adapters available at reception.
- Card payments: Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted throughout the country, whether in restaurants, hotels or shops. Before you leave, it’s advisable to check with your bank the conditions for using your card in Chile, particularly as regards conversion and withdrawal fees.
- Cash withdrawals from ATMs: ATMs are available in all Chilean cities, allowing you to withdraw pesos easily. This is a convenient and safe option, but bear in mind that withdrawal fees may apply, depending on your bank.
- Cash and exchange offices: if you prefer to use cash, we recommend that you take Euros or Dollars with you, and exchange them on site. Exchange bureaus can be found in all cities, and generally offer better rates than those at airports, where rates can be less favorable.
With these different options, you can manage your payments with complete peace of mind during your stay in Chile.
Car rental in Chile follows similar practices to those in other countries, but there are a few special features to bear in mind:
- Driver’s license: a national driver’s license is required to drive in Chile. An international license is optional, but may be useful in the event of a roadside check.
- Insurance: rental includes CDW (collision and theft) and DAT (third-party damage) coverage. Additional coverage options can be purchased depending on the specific regions you wish to visit. What’s more, most French credit cards offer deductible insurance for damage such as windshield debris. Note that 4×4 vehicles are not covered, and tires are generally not included in the coverage.
- Security deposit: a security deposit is required when picking up the vehicle, and and a credit card is required for this process.
- Drivers and mileage: mileage is generally unlimited, which is ideal for exploring the country. It is possible to add several drivers at no extra cost, except at border crossings, where the number of drivers is limited to two. The minimum age required to rent a vehicle varies between 18 and 21, depending on the rental company.
Our guides are available in many languages, including English, Spanish and French, depending on your profile and needs.
Group tours are usually conducted in English or Spanish, while our private tours can be conducted in French.
Choose the formula that suits you best to make the most of your experience in Chile!
Meal prices in Chile may vary depending on the location and type of meal you choose:
- Restaurants: in tourist areas such as Torres del Paine, expect to pay between USD 30 and 40 for a full meal per person. In larger towns, prices will be lower, around 20 or 30 USD for a quality culinary experience.
- Quick meals: for a meal on the go, such as a dish of the day, a sandwich or tasty “empanadas”, prices are generally between 10 and 15 USD, perfect for those who want to eat quickly without sacrificing taste.
- Hotel box lunches (picnic lunches): if you opt for a packed lunch, expect to pay between 15 and 25 USD, depending on the establishment. It’s a practical option for enjoying your activities while enjoying a good meal. Just let us know when you arrive, so we can arrange it for you!
No, no vaccinations are required for travel to Chile. However, it is advisable to consult the health advice provided by the Institut Pasteur, or to make an appointment with a health professional if in doubt.
Make sure you’re well informed so you can make the most of your stay!
In Chile, tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. Here are a few recommendations to guide you:
- Restaurants, bars and cafés: it’s customary to leave a tip of around 10% of the bill for on-the-spot consumption, as a sign of satisfaction with the service received.
- Guides: although it’s not compulsory, you can leave your guide a tip if you’re satisfied with his or her services, usually between 5 and 10 USD per person per day, depending on your appreciation.
- Drivers: no tip is required for the driver, but you are free to give one if you wish.
Do you have a question about your trip to Argentina?
Argentina is a destination to explore all year round, with each region having different climates and ideal seasons:
- North from Salta to Iguazú: the north can be visited all year round. However, it is important to note that the Salta region experiences heavy rainfall from January to mid-March. Outside this period, the climate is generally dry and pleasant.
- Southern Argentina: the ideal time to discover the south is from October to April, with milder temperatures and longer days. However, the south also offers exceptional landscapes and winter experiences from May to September.
- Combined North and South stay : to enjoy the best weather conditions in both regions, the periods from October to December and March to the end of April are the most recommended.
- Wildlife watching in Valdés: the months of October and November are ideal for penguin and whale watching. Whales can be seen on the Valdés Peninsula from August to the end of November, while penguins can be observed from October to March, both in Valdés and Ushuaia.
Our advisors are at your disposal to help you choose the period that best suits your expectations and desires. Don ‘ t hesitate to contact us!
To help you prepare for your trip to Argentina, here are a few clothing tips:
- Light clothing: for your stay in Buenos Aires, Iguazú, Salta and the north, where summer temperatures can be high, choose light, breathable clothing.
- Three-layer technique for the top: opt for thermal underwear, a fleece and a waterproof jacket/windbreaker (Goretex type) to adapt to variations in temperature and weather conditions. A compact, technical down jacket can be added to the fleece for extra warmth without bulking up your suitcase, especially if you’re traveling south.
- Bottom: waterproof walking pants and, depending on your activities, thermal tights. Don’t forget gloves and a hat for cooler regions.
- Footwear: take along comfortable shoes (sneakers and sandals) and light, waterproof walking shoes suitable for the various destinations on your trip.
- Sun protection: remember to bring a hat or cap, sunglasses, sunscreen and lip balm to protect yourself from the sun’s rays.
To enter Argentina, make sure youhave the followingformalities:
- Valid passport: your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay.
- Round-trip air ticket: make sure you have a round-trip air ticket.
- Please note: a visa is required for Canadian nationals wishing to visit Iguazú Falls on the Brazilian side.
Reciprocity fee:
On arrival to Chile (at the airport), citizens of Canada, Mexico and Australia will be charged the below fees payable in either US dollars cash, or by credit card. The payment is not required when entering the country by land/ vehicle.
Canadians: $132 USD
Australians: $95 USD
Mexicans: $23 USD
All other countries are exempt from this fee.
The Argentinian Reciprocity fee MUST BE PAID AND PRINTED OUT BEFORE entering Argentina via land or air. The fee varies depending on your nationality…
U.S. Citizens: $160 USD
Canadians: $150 USD
Australians: $100 USD
The fee can be paid here…
www.migraciones.gov.ar/accesibleingles or www.provinciapagos.com.ar/dnm
…and it will allow you to enter the country for 90 days at a time (duration depending on nationality)
In Argentina, the electrical current is 220 volts with a frequency of 50 hertz (Hz). Type C and type I sockets are used:
- Type C: European plug with two round pins.
- Type I: plug with two flat pins and a third vertical pin.
It’s advisable to bring an adapter for your devices, although most hotels have adapters available at reception.
- Card payments: Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted throughout the country, whether in restaurants, hotels or shops. Before you leave, we advise you to check with your bank the conditions for using your card in Argentina, particularly with regard to conversion and withdrawal fees. The exchange rate applied is the MEP exchange rate, which is more favorable than the official exchange rate. Search for “tasa cambio MEP” on the Internet to see the daily MEP rate and compare it with the “Banco Nación” exchange rate, which is the official rate.
- Cash withdrawals from ATMs: ATMs are available in all towns and cities. Unfortunately, ATMs often do not accept foreign cards. The exchange rate applied will be the MEP rate.
- Exchange bureaus: if you prefer to use cash, we recommend that you take Euros or Dollars with you, and exchange them once you arrive. The few exchange bureaus in all towns generally offer better rates than those at airports, where rates can be less favourable. Arbolitos” offer “blue” dollar or “blue” Euro exchange on Calle Florida, or in certain Western Union offices or “travel agencies”. The “blue” dollar is the parallel market exchange rate, more advantageous than the official one, but the difference with the MEP exchange rate applied to foreign credit cards is minimal and therefore not necessarily an attractive solution.
Car rental in Chile follows similar practices to those in other countries, but there are a few special features to bear in mind:
- Driving license: A national driving license is required to drive in Argentina. An international license is optional, but may be useful in the event of a roadside check.
- Insurance: rental includes CDW (collision and theft) and DAT (third-party damage) coverage. Additional coverage options can be purchased depending on the specific regions you wish to visit. What’s more, most French credit cards offer deductible insurance for damage such as windshield debris. Note that 4×4 vehicles are not covered, and tires are generally not included in the coverage.
- Security deposit: a security deposit is required when picking up the vehicle, and and a credit card is required for this process.
- Drivers and mileage: mileage may be limited or unlimited, depending on the region and rental company. It is possible to add several drivers at no extra cost, except at border crossings, where the number of drivers is limited to two. The minimum age required to rent a vehicle varies between 18 and 21, depending on the rental company.
Our guides speak several languages, including English, Spanish and French, to suit your needs and preferences.
Group tours are mainly offered in English or Spanish, while some private tours can be organized in French.
Meal prices in Argentina may vary depending on the location and type of meal you choose:
- Restaurants: in tourist areas such as Iguazú Park or Los Glaciares Park in El Calafate, expect to pay around USD 30 for a full meal. In larger cities, prices are lower, around 20 USD for a quality culinary experience.
- Quick meals: for a meal on the run, such as a dish of the day or a sandwich, prices are generally between 10 and 15 USD.
- Hotel box lunches (picnic lunches): if you opt for a packed lunch, expect to pay between 15 and 25 USD, depending on the establishment. It’s a practical option for enjoying your activities while enjoying a good meal. Just let us know when you arrive, so we can arrange it for you!
No, no vaccinations are required for travel to Argentina. However, it is advisable to consult the health advice provided by the Institut Pasteur, or to make an appointment with a health professional if in doubt.
Make sure you’re well informed so you can make the most of your stay!
In Argentina, tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. Here are a few recommendations to guide you:
- Restaurants, bars and cafés: it’s customary to leave a tip of around 10% of the bill for on-the-spot consumption, as a sign of satisfaction with the service received.
- Guides: although it’s not compulsory, you can leave your guide a tip if you’re satisfied with his or her services, usually between 5 and 10 USD per person per day, depending on your appreciation.
- Drivers: no tip is required for the driver, but you are free to give one if you wish.
Do you have a question about your trip to Patagonia?
Explore Patagonia all year round, each season offering a unique experience:
- October to April: take advantage of sunny days and mild weather to discover Patagonia in all its splendor. Ideal for trekking and outdoor adventures, this period offers spectacular scenery.
- May to September: let yourself be enchanted by the magic of winter in Patagonia. Although trekking activities are limited, this is a less busy period, perfect for those seeking tranquillity and enchanting panoramas.
Our experts can help you choose the period that will make your trip to Patagonia a tailor-made adventure, perfectly suited to your desires.
For your trip to Patagonia, here are a few clothing tips to help you get ready:
- Three-layer technique for the top: opt for thermal underwear, a fleece and a waterproof jacket/windbreaker (Goretex type) to adapt to variations in temperature and climatic conditions. A compact, technical down jacket can be added to the fleece for extra warmth without cluttering up your suitcase.
- Clothing: waterproof walking pants and thermal tights depending on the activity. Don’t forget gloves and a hat, essential for this region!
- Footwear: bring comfortable shoes (sneakers) and light, waterproof walking shoes adapted to the activities on your trip.
- Sun protection: don’t forget a hat or cap, sunglasses, sunscreen and lip balm to protect you from the sun.
Driving in Patagonia is a pleasant experience, with vast asphalt roads crossing the region from north to south, where traffic is rare.
However, to explore remote areas, natural parks or Chile’s legendary Carretera Austral, you’ll sometimes need to take to the trails.
In winter, although snow is common, the roads are generally well maintained, allowing you to travel in complete peace of mind.
The weather in Patagonia varies considerably depending on the season:
- Summer (December to February): daytime temperatures generally fluctuate between 5°C and 20°C, sometimes reaching higher values on sunny days. Days are long, and conditions are ideal for outdoor activities.
- Winter (June to August): night-time temperatures can easily drop below -5°C, while daytime temperatures vary between 0°C and 5°C. Winter conditions can include snowfalls, and days are shorter.
The weather in Patagonia can change rapidly, with frequent downpours whatever the season. So be prepared for a wide range of weather conditions, sometimes in the same day!
Patagonia is full of spectacular sites not to be missed:
- Torres del Paine in Chile: a national park renowned for its impressive scenery, with majestic mountains, turquoise lakes and fascinating glaciers.
- The Perito Moreno Glacier in El Calafate, Argentina The Perito Moreno Glacier: a colossal glacier offering a unique spectacle, with blocks of ice breaking off and falling into the lake. The glacier can be explored in a variety of ways: you can observe it from walkways, sail at its feet in a boat, or even get up close and personal on a glacier hike!
- El Chaltén in Argentina: a hiker’s paradise, with trails offering unforgettable views of Mount Fitz Roy and other iconic peaks.
- The Carretera Austral in Chile: a legendary, little-traveled route through wild, varied landscapes. It’s the ideal destination for travelers in search of unspoiled nature and solitude.
These destinations capture the wild essence of Patagonia, promising adventure and discovery at every turn.
Patagonia is a veritable sanctuary for a wide variety variety of animals. Here are just a few of the species you can observe:
- Birds: the region is home to a multitude of bird species, including the Andean condor, the magnificent black-headed hummingbird and various species of duck.
- Penguins: Watch Magellanic penguins in several key Patagonian locations, including the Valdes Peninsula, Ushuaia and Punta Arenas. In Tierra del Fuego, Inutil Bay is also home to a colony of king penguins, offering a unique discovery experience.
- Cetaceans: Patagonia is home to the southern right whale, which can be seen in the Peninsula Valdés during the breeding season or in the Francisco Coloane Marine Park when feeding. Orcas and dolphins can also be seen on the Valdés Peninsula.
- Pinnipeds: sea lions and elephant seals can be seen on the beaches of the Valdes Peninsula and around the Tierra del Fuego region. Fur seals are also present, often seen from boats or coastal walks.
- Carnivores and other mammals: the puma, known for its stealth, can be seen in certain areas of Patagonia, notably in Torres del Paine National Park. Guanacos and ñandus (South American ostriches) roam the plains and steppes. Armadillos, also known as armadillos, and zorros (foxes) add a touch of diversity to the terrestrial fauna.
These wildlife encounters offer a captivating insight into Patagonia’s unique biodiversity, and are the perfect complement to exploring its breathtaking landscapes.
There are two main ways to reach Patagonia:
- By plane: fly from Santiago in Chile or Buenos Aires in Argentina to major Patagonian cities such as Punta Arenas, Puerto Natales, El Calafate or Ushuaia.
- By ferry: ferries leave from Puerto Montt, Chiloé, or along the Carretera Austral to cross the fjords and canals, offering privileged access to certain parts of Patagonia.
An estancia in Patagonia is a large farm or ranch typical of the region, often dedicated toraising cattle or sheep.
Some estancias, whether still in operation or not, are open to the public and offer tours, horseback rides and demonstrations of rural life.
You can spend a day here, or even stay overnight for an in-depth immersion in Patagonian culture and way of life.
Patagonia offers a rich palette of activities to satisfy all nature and adventure lovers, with hiking a must.
You can take a boat trip to explore fjords, glaciers and coastal landscapes. Thrill-seekers will enjoy rafting and kayaking, whether on tumultuous rivers or in the sea.
Horseback rides take in the breathtaking scenery at a leisurely pace, while zodiac outings offer a unique perspective on marine life and landscapes.
For a more intense experience, glacier walking lets you tread the ice while admiring spectacular formations.
You can also go mountain biking or try your hand at climbing or Via Ferrata for vertical adventures in a natural environment.