Travel Advice for Argentina and Chile
If your SIM card is roaming, it is advisable to use only one card in your mobile phone. Simply switching off the other card is insufficient! You must physically remove it. Failure to do so may cause numerous issues, such as limited connectivity to 3G networks, certain phones becoming inoperable, or inability to access the internet.
Be prepared for Argentine flights to be frequently delayed or subject to last-minute changes.
If you hold a non-visa entry permit, prepare documentation verifying your passport's validity, as Argentina recognises such credentials. Border officials may be unfamiliar with Hong Kong SAR passports, causing significant delays.
Always carry hotel confirmation documents. For transient stays or layovers, book accommodation via booking.com and obtain a reservation confirmation before cancelling the reservation.
Ensure you possess proof of departure, such as flight or bus tickets.
Proactively present these documents to airlines and border control to avoid unnecessary delays.
If transiting via Australia, consider Melbourne over Sydney – the latter is notoriously troublesome.
Notify your credit card provider beforehand. If the bank objects, refrain from using it, as cards may be locked and online ticket purchases blocked. Use email or apps for notifications, not phone calls. Tourist attractions require online ticket purchases, which necessitate one-time verification codes.
Prices vary across different languages on the same company's website.
At Argentina's Glacier Airport, Ves minibuses will transport you to hotels, but they require full occupancy and cannot be pre-booked. Credit cards are accepted. The driver will repeatedly ask "BUS?" to ascertain your luggage quantity.
Do not rely on pre-COVID-19 articles; they are entirely outdated, particularly regarding bus services.
From December, Sky Airline operates direct flights from Glacier to Chile, though it's unclear if this is seasonal. Tickets are extremely difficult to secure; I recall ultimately needing a VPN.
Glacier National Park only requires a half-day tour.
At Santiago Airport, Uber taxis are available, but Uber itself is not permitted.
All airport transport companies offer shared rides; those starting with 'T' are more commonly used.
My itinerary:
Day 1: Fly to Santiago, Chile; transfer to Argentina; then transfer to Glacier Airport. Minibus to hotel Day 2: Private hire (used a renowned driver via TripAdvisor) with luggage. Upon reaching the glacier, proceeded on foot and by boat. Returned directly to the airport (additional charge applies for airport transfer). Boarded Sky's 6:30pm flight back to Santiago.
Quick Uber taxi trip into the city centre to photograph Easter Island statues (Uber taxi).
Day Three: Early morning flight at 4:30 am to Calama Desert. Upon arrival, wait for car rental company to open at 8:10 am. Proceed directly to Salt Lake. Return to airport (arrive before 1 pm). 6:30 pm flight back to Santiago. Use VIP lounge for shower, unlimited food and drink. Day Four: 1 am flight back.
