Patagonia River Ranch Pre Trip Planning Guide

Pre-Trip Planning Guide

Dear Future Guest,

On behalf of the Patagonia River Ranch family, we would like to welcome you to The Ranch for this coming season.

This pre-trip planner is your go to guide for your trip to Patagonia River Ranch. It is loaded with information on travel, accommodations, fishing by month, weather, tackle and gear recommendations, and much more. Feel free to contact us anytime with questions, but know this is a great resource to keep handy.

We look forward to meeting you upon arrival. If you have stayed with us before, welcome back! We hope you have the trip of a lifetime.

See you soon!

Patagonia River Ranch Team

Things To Know Before Your Visit

Location

Patagonia River Ranch is located at the base of the Southern Andes and nestled on the banks of the Río Chimehuín with San Martín de los Andes only forty-five minutes away.

Time Zone

Argentina Time (ART) is 3 hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC). Set your clocks to Buenos Aires, Argentina! There is no Daylight Savings in Argentina.

Language

Spanish is the official language of Argentina, but English is commonly used. All of The Ranch hosts and fishing guides speak English.

Currency and Exchange Rate

The U.S. dollar is accepted and preferred in Argentina. The exchange rate, however, constantly varies due to inflation. Use this link to find the most current exchange rate prior to your trip: dolarhoy.com. Please plan to bring enough cash as there are no ATMs at The Ranch or available in the area. We suggest bringing only $50 and $100 dollar bills, as they are the only ones accepted in most of the stores. Ripped or marked bills are not accepted.

Credit cards are accepted in most shops, restaurants, and hotels. Remember to notify your credit card company you are traveling internationally! Since The Ranch is an allinclusive experience, we suggest exchanging money only for your time in Buenos Aires.

Payment and Cancellation Policy

To confirm your trip, we require a 50% deposit within 10 days of your booking. The final payment is due 90 days prior to your arrival date. If your booking is made within 90 days of your arrival date, then full payment is required at the time of booking. All payments are non-refundable, so we highly recommend purchasing trip insurance.

Technology

An adapter for any electronics is needed while at The Ranch and in Argentina. Plug types C (two round pins) and I (three flat pins in a triangular pattern) are compatible with Argentine outlets. Make sure to bring an adapter that converts voltage as it is much higher in Argentina (220V) than the United States (110V). Each room at The Ranch is equipped with both plug-in types.

Communications

There is no cellular service at The Ranch, but wireless internet is available in the public areas. Keep in mind that the Internet will be slower than what you are used to since The Ranch is so remote. There is a land–line phone at The Ranch available for use at no extra charge.

Emergency contact details on page 25

Travel

Each guest is responsible for their own travel arrangements to-and-from San Martín de los Andes. We have resources to help make this as easy and seamless as possible. We also provide transportation between The Ranch and the San Martín de los Andes airport.

Argentina Entry Requirements

A current passport is required for travel to and from Argentina. A visa is not required. Vaccinations are not required. Bring copies (physical and digital) of important documents in case something happens to the originals.

Trip Insurance

Trip insurance is highly recommended, as all deposits and payments are final. We have last minute cancellations each year due to unforeseen reasons — no one expects this to happen to them! We do not work with any Travel insurance agency, but many guests choose to use Travel Ex and IMG Global. Most companies require this to be done within 2 – 3 weeks of payment for full coverage of pre-existing conditions. Along with trip insurance, you will want to check if your airline tickets are refundable or transferable. All payments and reservations are final.

Recommended Travel Agents

We work closely with a travel agency in Jackson Hole, WY (Aspen Travel) and a concierge team in Buenos Aires (LOL Argentina), who can book international flights, domestic flights, airport transfers, and any other travel needs. We highly recommend these resources to ensure travel to and from Argentina is seamless and stress-free. However, we are here to help so please contact us with any questions or concerns before you make any purchases.

Aspen Travel

If you need any assistance booking your international flights, please contact our local travel agency in Jackson Hole, WY. Please ask for Mel Best, she’s the most familiar with our operation.

Mel Best

mel@aspentravel.com

(307) 733-7893

www.aspentravel.com

Flights to Buenos Aires

Overnight flights are available to Buenos Aires from all major U.S. cities. Many guests choose to spend a night or two exploring the capital city before venturing to The Ranch.

Flights to San Martín de los Andes

From Buenos Aires, guests fly into San Martín de los Andes airport (CPC) and are welcomed by a member of our staff. Guests are then driven about 45 minutes to Patagonia River Ranch!

Return Flights to Buenos Aires

LOL Argentina

For travel arrangements in Argentina, LOL Argentina, a concierge team in Buenos Aires, can assist in booking flights, hotels, and transfers, in addition to city tours, tango shows, restaurant reservations, etc.

info@lolargentina.com

(406) 577-1004

www.lolargentina.com

The Ranch staff will arrange transportation to the San Martín de los Andes airport where guests will fly to Buenos Aires to then fly home or continue their journey to their next destination! Please contact our team for different travel arrangements.

Baggage Policies

Please check the baggage policy for your ticketed international airline. Each airline sets the requirements and any fees for the size, weight, and number of checked baggage and carry-ons allowed.

The domestic airline in Argentina is Aerolineas Argentinas. Since airline policies regarding carry-on and checked luggage are constantly changing, we recommend checking the Aerolineas Argentinas website or speaking with your travel agency before your trip. Please note that absolutely no fishing gear is allowed in your carry-on; all fishing gear must be checked.

Packing List

The dress code at The Ranch is casual, but many guests choose to dress up for dinner. We recommend bringing a lot of layers. Insulated, quick drying clothing is best for Patagonia fly fishing and other outdoor activities. Leave your cotton at home!

Accessories

* Any personal fishing gear

* Polarized sunglasses

* Croakies or similar eyewear retainer

* Hat, for sun and eye protection –wide-brimmed is best

* Beanie, for early and late season

* Gloves, for sun and wind protection

* Day Pack

* Sunscreen SPF 40 or higher

* Insect repellent

* Personal toiletries

* Prescription medications

* Eye glasses or contacts

* Books and reading material

* Personal electronics cell phone, laptop, camera...

* Cables, adapters and converters

* Passport and other travel documents

* Cash in U.S. Dollars.

Clothing

* Rain jacket, Gore Tex is best

* Insulated jacket, nano or micro puff jackets

* F leece mid-layer or something similar

* Long-sleeve shirts quick-dry or synthetic material

* Quick-dry pants and shorts if you like

* Long underwear, most needed for early and late season

* Activewear, for any non-fishing activities

* Casual for around The Ranch

* Dinner clothing, most guests choose to dress up a little bit (mountain casual)

* Non-cotton socks, merino wool is best

* Water shoes or sandals, if you are not using wading boots

* Sneakers or hiking shoes

* Shoes with a heel and long pants, if you would like to horseback ride

The Ranch

The Ranch is a private oasis on the banks of the Río Chimehuín, surrounded by the vast, unspoiled ecosystem of Northern Patagonia. Our rustic and elegant guest lodge will be your home away from home. The architecture is purely Argentine with a timeless and authentic look. The property includes a well appointed guest lodge, a classic barn, home of our pure Argentinian bred horses, and a two acre organic vegetable garden which provides our chef with the freshest produce to create a world class dining experience. Our Rose garden consists of 800 rose bushes with 80 different varieties selected from around the world. Guests will also enjoy a variety of walking paths that take you along well marked trails and tree-lined ranch roads, where you might stumble upon many places to relax and admire the beauty of Patagonia.

Accommodations

Casual elegance at its best. Our accommodations are designed with your every comfort in mind.

* Seven well-appointed guest suites in the main lodge and two private cottages a short walk from the lodge.

The Guest Lodge and Amenities

What can you expect to find at The Ranch?

* Grand living room furnished for guests to enjoy after a long day of fishing, or while reading a book by the fire.

* Custom-designed wine cellar filled with the highest quality Argentine wines.

* Open bar available for use throughout your stay.

* 500 thread count sheets.

* En-suite bathrooms fully stocked with hair dryers, robes, slippers and bath products.

* Complimentary laundry service is provided once a week.

Please let us know if you need power at night (medical needs, CPAP machine) so necessary arrangements can be made.

“It’s hard for me to imagine that there can be any better fishing anywhere in the world.”

— William C.

The Patagonia River Ranch Staff

The entire staff at Patagonia River Ranch is native Argentinian and will do everything possible to make your time at The Ranch a memorable experience! Our goal has always been to immerse each guest into the Argentine lifestyle to make for an enjoyable, authentic cultural experience.

Special Requests

Please make us aware of any special requests you may have. Requests can include dietary preferences, celebrating an anniversary or birthday, whether you prefer coffee or tea, or anything else you can think of. Most importantly we need to know if you have any food or medical needs The Ranch staff should know about ahead of time. We aim to meet all special requests, with the goal that all of our guests are as comfortable as possible.

Gratuities

While it is customary to tip your fishing guide and The Ranch staff at the end of your stay, it is a personal decision and is at your discretion. For your fishing guide, we recommend $150 per fishing day (split between you and your fishing partner). For The Ranch staff, we suggest between $250 to $350 per guest for the entirety of your stay. Tips for The Ranch staff (not fishing guide) will be divided evenly. If you would like to leave any additional tips for a specific member of the staff, please let the host team know.

All tips must be cash in U.S. dollars. Credit cards or checks are not accepted at the ranch. Please plan accordingly.

The Stables

At The Ranch, we have a beautiful barn and fenced pastures that are home to our horses. Horseback riding is available every day for our guests and it is a wonderful way to see The Ranch and surrounding areas.

The Gardens

Our rose garden, vegetable green houses, tomato house, berry patch, and orchard create our gardens at The Ranch. If you look hard enough, you may even find our chicken coop! Our guests will be able to experience a guided tour to our gardens to learn about the organic growing methods and our farm to table mentality. The gardens also provide beautiful areas to relax and enjoy the day.

The Horses and the Riding Program

The Ranch has a number of beautiful horse trails to explore. We offer many different rides within The Ranch. Our experienced team of gauchos and 100% Argentine bred horses will ensure a ride of a lifetime. All riding abilities are welcome. We have wonderful horses and you will be paired with the perfect one to suit your experience level and personality.

Our Chicken Coop

There are about 90 chickens cared for in our chicken coop. We harvest their eggs every day so you can enjoy fresh eggs each morning!

The Rose Gardens

Our rose garden is filled with 800 rose bushes and is the perfect spot to take a nap or read a book in one of the hammocks during your visit!

The Kitchen & Dining Experience

Our cuisine is prepared by our master chef and his team, using the freshest ingredients from our garden and local vendors. Guests will also enjoy homemade breads and baked goods prepared daily by our pastry chef. All meals are paired with the best Argentine wines.

The Cuisine

Homemade pastries, granola, and yogurt along with seasonal fruit are served every morning before your adventures begin. A hot breakfast including eggs, bacon, toast, and vegetables can be made to order. There is a special everyday. Coffee, tea, and other hot drinks will be available as well.

Depending on your plans for the day, breakfast can be served earlier or later. Lunch is typically served on the banks of the river with three courses and enjoyed with a beverage of your choice. Arrangements will be made for lunch for any non-fishing activity.

Each evening begins with a cocktail hour and light hors d’oeuvres around 7:00 p.m. followed by a gourmet dinner. Argentine style cuisine and desserts will be served throughout the week. Hand-selected wines will be introduced and paired with dinner every night.

By the end of the week, you will have a good understanding of the Argentine culinary culture and you will be craving local favorites once you return home.

Please let us know if you have any dietary restrictions or preferences so our kitchen staff can prepare accordingly.

The Bar

The bar is fully stocked with Argentine beer, wine, and liquor as well as some common drinks. While we do have a cocktail hour each evening prior to dinner, guests are welcome to serve themselves any time during their stay.

If you would like a specific drink during your stay, please let us know prior to your stay. All alcoholic beverages are included in our rate.

The Asado

An authentic Argentine Asado (an Argentine barbecue) is held on the last night of the week. The fishing guides, hosts, and staff will join you for the end-of-week celebration. Empanadas and drinks are served outside while lamb and beef cook on the open fire and vegetables and bread cook in the clay oven.

The Asado is a highlight for guests, filled with laughter and stories from the week. It is the perfect way to top off your time at Patagonia River Ranch.

Fishing Information

Fly fish for German Brown Trout and Rainbow Trout in the most productive rivers in Northern Patagonia. These trout are very strong and feisty — once you hook your first trout, you will see what we mean!

The Program & Your Guide

Over the years we have found guests have an incredible experience fishing with the same guide during their stay. Getting to know your fishing guide will provide you with opportunities to develop new skills and learn to understand Patagonian rivers. Keep in mind all of the guides are native Argentinians and experts in fishing these waters. Regardless of your ability level, our guides will improve your technique and help give you the tools to succeed each fishing day!

Depending on the time of the year, guests will have the chance to fish up to six different rivers: the Chimehuín, Caleufú, Collón Curá, Aluminé, Malleo, and Quilquihue. We have the flexibility, equipment, and experience to put you on the rivers that are fishing best during your visit. Depending on the weather and water levels, an overnight camping trip is available upon request.

The Blue Label Club

A special tradition we have at the Ranch is our Blue Label Club. Any Angler who catches a trout 25” or larger will be inducted into the Blue Label Club. At the Asado, the angler and his fishing guide will be celebrated while taking part in the Blue Label Registry and sealing it with a drink of the Scotch Whiskey, Johnnie Walker Blue Label. Joining this club is a challenge, but ensures your spot in Patagonia River Ranch history.

Weather & Fishing Conditions

The weather where we are located in Northern Patagonia is friendlier than the Central and Southern zones of Patagonia. However, the weather in Northern Patagonia will vary from week to week, as it can be warm and beautiful or windy and rainy, all in the same week (or day, for that matter!). Being well-prepared clothing-wise is important to enjoying your trip to the fullest. Expect temperatures similar to the Rocky Mountain West where it warms up during the day and is cooler at night. Wind Guru is the most accurate forecast for The Ranch if you want to check the weather prior to your trip.

Gear & Tackle

All the necessary equipment is available at The Ranch if needed. We also provide rods and reels, even though many guests prefer to use their own. Depending on the time of the season, many guests choose to borrow waders and boots to save room in their bags. If you plan to use ranch equipment, please make note in the pre-trip questionnaire.

Reels and Line

November & December

The start of the fishing season is considered early summer in Patagonia. The trout are hungry after the winter season and are ready to attack your fly. This time of year is ideal for fishing streamers, large dry flies and nymphs for large trout. The Caleufu River, one of the 6 rivers we fish, is a favorite among guests and guides. It fishes particularly well this time of year, offering superior fishing and spectacular scenery.

January & February

January and February are the peak summer months in Patagonia. These months provide typical summertime fishing and weather conditions. The rivers begin to lower in water level and air temperatures begin to rise. The summer months are excellent for fishing dry fly patterns of all sizes and styles. Terrestrials come into play with hoppers, ants, and beetles. Our guides tie custom patterns to match these insects. Streamer fishing is still productive, particularly on overcast days. Fishing bead head wooly buggers in the long riffles on the Chimehuin and Collon Cura is a deadly tactic!

March & April

As fall arrives and the weather begins to cool, the leaves on the trees start to blaze with rich autumn color, and our trout go into feeding overdrive to prepare for the coming winter. The large browns start to move from the lakes into the streams to join the resident trout. Dry fly fishing remains excellent particularly in the shallows, but this is also an ideal time to throw streamers for the trophy browns in all of the rivers we fish.

Your reel should have a dependable drag system that will not fail under high stress and will recover rapidly. Argentine trout will take a lot of line, and at times will go into your backing. Floating lines (weight forward) and sink-tip fly lines will be used. Sink-tips that get down quick are the most versatile and are easier to pick up and recast. You are welcome to use our reels and lines with your own rod.

Waders and Wading Boots

You will be primarily fishing from a raft and waders are typically only needed when the weather is cooler early and late in the season – November to December and March to April. Wading boots must be very clean with no metal studs for customs – Argentine customs officers may check if they see you’re a fisherman!

Wet wading is always an option, you will need shoes for water that will not easily slip off. Flip Flops are not recommended. Waders and boots are available at The Ranch. Please let us know if you wear a very large or small size to make sure we have them for you.

Fly Rods

We recommend a 6 weight rod for the majority of flies and conditions and a 7 weight rod for streamers that are light and fast acting.

Flies

Our fishing guides have all the flies, leaders and tippets you will need. If you are a fly tyer, we are happy to send you a list of the most popular patterns.

Non-Angling Activities

We offer a number of activities for guests who are non-anglers or are looking to take a break from fishing during their stay. A member of the Patagonia River Ranch staff will accompany guests on all activities and will fulfill special requests whenever possible. Our goal is to provide an experience of a lifetime no matter the activity.

During your stay, we encourage you to plan a day trip into the town of San Martín de los Andes. You will find San Martín to be a charming town set along the banks of Lacar Lake with exceptional vistas of the Andes mountains, unique shopping, and local art tours.

A world of activities at your fingertips

Horseback Riding • Hiking • Kayaking •

Mountain Biking • Museum Tours • Camping•

Cooking Classes • Garden Tours • Birdwatching •

Art Tours • Shopping In Town

Please note that all non-fishing activities are included in the rate — there are no extra charges. Whatever your interests may be, our goal is to provide a personalized experience that will create memories for a lifetime!

The Direct Ranch

Phone Number

From the U.S. (011) 54 - 2972-425-946

Ranch Contact Information — RANCH CONTACT INFORMATION

Host Team Contact Information

Charo Ricaurte: charo@patagoniariverranch.com

Clara Delle Piane: clara@patagoniariverranch.com

Laura Ayala, Guest Manager (307) 298-0382 laura@patagoniariverranch.com

The U.S. office is always available to answer any questions you may have, and can always quickly get in touch with The Ranch. (307) 739-8093 or info@patagoniariverranch.com