Travelmarvel South America Tours, Galapagos Islands, Amazon Cruise, Machu Picchu
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78 Frequently Asked Questions WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT SOUTH AMERICA? South America is an all-year-round destination. The climate varies greatly between regions, which means there is more than one 'best time to visit'. DO I REQUIRE A VISA TO TRAVEL TO SOUTH AMERICA? Australian passport holders require a visa to enter Brazil. A Brazilian visa is not required by New Zealand passport holders for visits of up to 90 days. Australians and New Zealanders do not require visas to enter Chile and Argentina, however Australian passport holders will be charged reciprocity fees in Chile and Argentina. For Argentina, this is to be paid online and passengers must travel with a printed receipt and barcode. New Zealand passport holders are not required to pay reciprocity fees. People of all other nationalities should contact the relevant consulates or your travel agent for the latest information on visa requirements. All passengers must have a valid passport with at least six months validity from return date. This information is correct at the time of printing. DO I NEED TO BE VACCINATED BEFORE I TRAVEL? Vaccinations are required for travel to South America. It is important to note that Yellow Fever is a quarantine disease in Australia and passengers travelling to some countries within South America must hold a Yellow Fever certificate to re-enter Australia. Please consult your doctor for details. CURRENCY & CREDIT CARDS US$ are widely accepted in South America however a range of local currencies are also in use. Many locations accept major credit cards, and ATM's are available in most major city centres (which will only dispense cash in local currency). Before you depart, you should confirm that your ATM card will work overseas. When on board a cruise, all purchases are charged to your shipboard account, which can be paid in US$ or by credit card. WHAT ABOUT ALTITUDE SICKNESS? Known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), altitude sickness is a condition caused by ascending to high altitudes. Some parts of Peru, including Cusco and Machu Picchu are situated at an altitude of up to 4,000 metres, whilst Quito in Ecuador is 2,850 metres above sea level. Most people will experience some effect from these high altitudes, and suffer mildly from AMS. Symptoms can include: headache, lack of appetite, nausea, fatigue or weakness, dizziness or light-headedness. Symptoms can be reduced by ascending to higher altitudes slowly – which is how we have planned each itinerary. Staying well-hydrated is also important, hence we provide you with a bottle of water each day. LUGGAGE LIMITS Please contact your airline for specific information. On both rail journeys, Machu Picchu return and the Ecuadorian Tren Crucero, you will be restricted to bring only a day pack with a maximum weight of 5kg. Your main suitcase will be awaiting your arrival at your hotel. ELECTRICITY Voltages vary from 120V to 240V, as both two round and three flat pin plugs are used. An appropriate adaptor will be required for personal appliances. HEALTH & FITNESS A good level of health and fitness is required to participate on our tours. In many of the cities walking is required on cobbled streets and uneven footpaths and good mobility is needed getting on/off coaches, ships and trains. We strongly recommend a visit to the doctor and dentist before travelling to overseas destinations. It is your responsibility to advise Travelmarvel of any pre-existing medical conditions that may affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of others while on tour. Iguassu Falls is just one of the many incredible destinations that await you with Travelmarvel in South America – www.travelmarvel.com.au –