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Epic Argentina & Chile: 25-Day Adventure with Your Travel Crew

4.5 (12 Reviews)
Buenos Aires, Calafate, Chaltén, Torres del Paine, Santiago, Mendoza
From: EUR 7.520
4.5
(12 reviews)
Consult
Duration

25 days

Departures

Full Day

Group Size

1 person

Languages

___

Description

Meet the heart of Argentina’s diverse landscapes and vibrant cultures. From the bustling streets of Buenos Aires to the awe-inspiring natural wonders of Patagonia and the breathtaking vineyards of Mendoza, this adventure promises an unreal exploration of Argentina’s rich heritage and natural beauty. Delve into the passion of tango, discover the spirit of gaucho culture, and marvel at the majestic glaciers and towering peaks of the Andes. With expert guides leading the way, this unforgettable odyssey offers a timeless celebration of adventure, discovery, and camaraderie.

Highlights

  • Buenos Aires' tango rhythm and football fervor.
  • Patagonia's pristine landscapes and hidden glaciers.
  • The majestic Perito Moreno Glacier in Los Glaciares National Park.
  • Mendoza's wine and culinary delights.
  • Santiago's historic landmarks.

Included/Excluded

  • Transfers and excursions as described in the itinerary.
  • Accommodation with breakfast in the hotels described or similar in double rooms.
  • Assistance during the trip in our whatsapp at destination.
  • Entrance fees to National Parks or reserves.
  • Meals (except when excursions include it).
  • International or domestic flights.
  • Meals (except when excursions include it).
  • Museum Tickets (except when excursions include it).

Itinerary

<span>Day 1</span>Buenos Aires, Argentina

Upon arrival at the airport, our Argentina Pura guide will meet you and take you to your hotel. Free day. Overnight in Buenos Aires: Kenton Palace, Legado Mítico Hotel, Loi Suites Recoleta, Alvear Palace(or similar).

<span>Day 2</span>Buenos Aires: Bike Tour to the South

Going to the South, we will show you the history of the beginnings of Buenos Aires as a city. Its historic homes, cobblestone streets, and local inhabitants will immerse you in the authentic essence of the original neighborhoods. Immerse yourself in our foremost passions: tango and football. Explore the lush green expanse of the Ecological Reserve along the South Coast. Our journey will lead us through the neighborhoods of San Telmo, La Boca, Puerto Madero, and Monserrat. Throughout the tour, we'll make seven strategic stops, each showcasing the most captivating aspects and providing insight into the history and themes of each location. Duration: 3.00 hours Includes: Bicycle, helmet, bilingual tour guide (Spanish/English). Overnight in Buenos Aires: Kenton Palace, Legado Mítico Hotel, Loi Suites Recoleta, Alvear Palace (or similar). Meals: Breakfast, Lunch on the go.

<span>Day 3</span>Buenos Aires: Football “The Argentine passion”

A football match tour in Argentina is an exciting experience that immerses you in the passion and culture of Argentine soccer, known worldwide for its intensity and devotion. Special note: Football match attendance (depends on official calendar) or free day. Overnight in Buenos Aires: Legado Mítico Hotel, Loi Suites Recoleta, Alvear Palace (or similar). Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch.

<span>Day 4</span>Buenos Aires - El Calafate - El Chaltén

According to your itinerary, our guide will take you to the airport so you can continue with your trip. Upon arrival in El Calafate, you will be driven to El Chaltén and along the way (shared service) we will visit La Leona and take a 3-hour hike to explore fossils and dinosaurs in a wind-protected area with pleasant conditions. Ideal for adventure and nature enthusiasts. Upon arrival in El Chaltén, we will drop you off at your selected hotel. Overnight in El Chalten: Poincenot, Senderos Hosteria, Destino Sur hotel (or similar). Meals included: Breakfast.

<span>Day 5</span>El Chaltén: Laguna de Los Tres - Camping program

We depart from El Chaltén by car and drive 17km to our starting point. From there, we embark on a scenic hike through the lush lenga forest, following the White River (Río Blanco) towards Poincenot campsite. Along the route, we take breaks to explore the unique flora and fauna of the Patagonian Andean forest and visit the stunning Piedras Blancas viewpoint. At this spot, we can admire the Piedras Blancas glacier and its associated glacial features, including the erratic boulders and lateral moraines left behind as the glacier receded in recent decades. As we continue, we are treated to various breathtaking vistas of the Fitz Roy mountain range until we reach our ultimate destination for the day - the enchanting Laguna de Los Tres. This extraordinary location offers the finest view of Cerro Fitz Roy, making it one of the most awe-inspiring sights in all of Patagonia. Distance: 11km +650/-400m Duration: 6/7 hours Level of physical exertion: moderate Overnight in Poincenot campground - organized camping Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

<span>Day 6</span>El Chaltén: Laguna Torre trek - Camping program (Full Day)

This morning we bid farewell to Cerro Fitz Roy and proceeded towards a picturesque valley adorned with gentle hills and the Mother and Daughter lagoons, known as Lagunas Madre e Hija. Along the way, there will be ample opportunities to pause for photographs, and with some luck, we might even catch a glimpse of the occasional group of Cauquenes that frequent the area. Our path winds through forests of Lenga and Ñires, traversing a substantial moraine before reaching our destination: Laguna Torre, where we'll pause for a scenic lunch amidst breathtaking views of the Torres mountain range and the expansive Glacier Grande. Weather permitting, we'll embark on a hike towards the Maestri viewpoint for an up-close look at Glacier Grande. This viewpoint bears the name of the controversial Italian climber, Cesare Maestri, who devised his ascent strategies for one of the world's most challenging mountains from this very spot. When we're ready, we'll descend to our overnight accommodations at Torre's campsite and settle in for the night. If the sunset promises to be beautiful, we may return to the lake to witness its splendor. Distance: 8 km -400m Duration: 7/8 hours Level of physical exertion: low Overnight in Cerro Torre campground - organized camping Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

<span>Day 7</span>El Chaltén: Río Fitz Roy Zipline - Paso de Agachonas - Pliegue del Tumbado

Our final day of hiking begins early and promises an exhilarating adventure. To start our day, we'll experience an adrenaline rush as we zipline across the lively Río Fitz Roy, guaranteed to jolt anyone still battling sleepiness. After a safe crossing, our path leads us over another moraine and into a forest, where you'll notice the trees diminishing in size as we ascend. The strenuous ascent to Paso de las Agachonas is truly rewarding, offering a breathtaking panorama of Cerro Torre and Glacier Grande. Here, the formidable Patagonian wind will likely make its presence known, providing a taste of its renowned strength and chill. While we brave the elements, we'll have the opportunity to behold the entirety of the Fitz Roy and Torres mountain ranges, catch a glimpse of the Windy Pass (Paso del Viento), and, if weather permits, admire some of the snow-covered peaks of the South Patagonian Icefield. This viewpoint is one of the park's less frequented spots, ensuring unique photo opportunities to commemorate your adventures with us. From this vantage point, we'll descend once more, making our way back to El Chaltén via Loma del Pliegue. Distance: 13 km, +850/-950m Duration: 9 hours Level of physical exertion: moderate Services included: Bilingual trekking guide (English/Spanish) Transport to the trailhead and hiking permissions Camping equipment (tent, sleeping bag, sleeping mat) Food during the trek (1 breakfast, 2 boxed lunches, 1 dinner) VHF communication Special note: Camping equipment will be prepared at the campsites, and participants will carry their personal belongings along with a packed lunch. The campsites are equipped with dry toilets but lack electricity and shower facilities. Access to drinking water will be readily available for the majority of the hike. Overnight in El Chaltén: Poincenot, Senderos Hostería, Destino Sur hotel (or similar). Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch.

<span>Day 8</span>El Chaltén - El Calafate: Kayak Río La Leona

After breakfast at the hotel, our extraordinary journey from El Chaltén to El Calafate includes an exciting kayaking experience on the La Leona River. After a 1.5-hour transfer, we provide safety instructions and equip you with all necessary gear. Paired in double kayaks, guided by experts, we paddle about 8 kilometers, stopping for lunch near Cerro Fortaleza before hiking to a viewpoint with fossilized bones and petrified trees. We resume kayaking, exploring unique geological formations and Patagonian steppe, and then return to El Calafate by vehicle.

Total Kayak Distance: 14 km

Total Trekking Distance: 5km Start Time: 7:30a.m. Return Time: 3p.m.

Difficulty: moderate.

Overnight in El Calafate: La Estepa, Kau Yatun, Xelena Hotel (or similar).

Meals included: Breakfast.

<span>Day 9</span>El Calafate: Los Glaciares National Park and Big Ice Trek (Full Day)

After breakfast at the hotel, we will depart from El Calafate to Bajo la Sombra port, followed by a brief boat ride to the west coast of Brazo Rico. With mountain guides, trek along a moraine trail to a viewpoint, then don crampons to access the glacier. During a 4-hour glacier walk, marvel at blue lagoons, deep crevasses, sinkholes, and captivating caves, immersing yourself in the glacier's heart. Essentials to bring: sunglasses, sunscreen, warm attire, a sun hat, waterproof jacket, gloves, trekking boots, a 40-liter backpack, water bottle, and snacks.

Includes: Transportation to and from the port to El Calafate. 

Not included: park entrance fee, snacks, clothing, or personal gear.

Special note: minitrekking from 10 to 65 years old and Big Ice from 18 to 50 years old.

Overnight in El Calafate: La Estepa, Kau Yatun, Xelena Hotel (or similar).

Meals: Breakfast, Box Lunch.

<span>Day 10</span>Glaciar Sur Aventura Trekking

This day, we will breakfast at the hotel and depart from Calafate to Glaciar Sur pier on Estancia Nibepo Aike's shores, sailing deep into the Andes at the South Arm of Lake Argentino's terminus. Upon disembarkation, we embark on a hike toward Lake Frias, accessible solely by foot. The trail leads through a beech forest to a natural lookout overseeing Lake Frias, once entirely enshrouded by Frias Glacier in the distant past. After descending to the lake's shore, we board the Fitzcarraldo boat, sailing 5 km on stunning crystal emerald waters. On the opposite shore, we embark on another 4.5 km hike along the Frias river valley. As we near the final moraine, the glaciers loom closer. This pristine National Park area features a changing valley culminating in an amphitheater formed by Grande, Cubo, and Dickson Glaciers, which feed into Frias Superior lagoon and Lake Dickson. Originally, they were all part of the expansive Frias Glacier. It's a unique and exclusive landscape. There's free time to savor the scenery and have lunch before our return journey to El Calafate

Special note: from 12 years and on. Check physical conditions for passengers over 65 years old.

Overnight in El Calafate: La Estepa, Kau Yatun, Xelena Hotel (or similar).

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.

<span>Day 11</span>El Calafate - Torres del Paine National Park

On this day, you'll begin your journey by boarding a transfer at your El Calafate hotel heading towards Torres del Paine (Shared service).  You will travel to the main entrance of Torres del Paine National Park, Laguna Amarga, where you´ll need to register with CONAF (park rangers) and purchase your park entrance ticket. Then, you will transfer to “Transporte Las Torres,” which will take you to the Welcome Center. You will register at the Cerro Paine Reserve, and after a short 5-minute walk, you will arrive at Torre Central Refuge, where you must check in, whether at the refuge or the camping area, before starting your trek on the following day.

Overnight in Las Torres Hotel Half board.

Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner.

<span>Day 12</span>Torres del Paine: W Circuit (Mountain shelter) - Base Torres Viewpoint Trek

Breakfast at the hotel. In this trekking, you'll be able to explore The 5 day/4 night W Circuit and all the attractions of the park that give the W Circuit its name: Base Torres Viewpoint, Los Cuernos, French Valley, Paine Grande, and Grey Glacier.

Today's hike begins in the Ascencio Valley, where you'll enjoy its vast forests. During the final ascent, you will cross a massive field of giant rocks until you reach one of the most iconic viewpoints in the world, the famous Base Torres viewpoint. At an altitude of 900 meters above sea level, marvel at the three granite towers (north, central, and south) and the brilliant turquoise glacial lake at their feet. Take beautiful photos and enjoy your box lunch before returning the same way back to Torre Central. After a long day enjoying the Torres, delight in dinner at the refuge.

Distance: 21 kms.

Time: 8 -10 hours.

Difficulty level: Strenuous.

Alojamiento: Camping.

Overnight in Torre Central Refuge.

Meals included: Breakfas, Box Lunch, Dinner.

<span>Day 13</span>Torres del Paine: Hike to Los Cuernos or Francés Refuge

Enjoy breakfast and then request your box lunch to start the hike deep into the park towards the Los Cuernos or Francés refuge. During this hike, you will pass through beautiful crystal-clear streams and admire the glaciers hanging from Mount Almirante Nieto at 2,670 meters. You will see majestic condors soaring from above and will follow the fascinating waters of Lake Nordenskjöld.

Continue along the trail until you reach the Los Cuernos refuge or Domo Francés, where you will relax for the entire night.

Distance: 12,5 or 16 kms

Time: 4 -5 hours

Difficulty level: Moderate

Accommodation: Camping.

Overnight in Los Cuernos refuge or Domo Francés.

Meals included: Breakfast, Box Lunch, Dinner.

<span>Day 14</span>Trek to Valle del Francés

We recommend starting early! This hike will take you to the heart of Torres del Paine National Park. After breakfast, request your box lunch and prepare for a day of amazing Patagonian landscapes. After 2 hours of hiking, you will pass the French campsite and reach the entrance to the French Valley. You can leave your backpack at the Italian campsite, where the park rangers are located, and begin your ascent to the French Valley. Climb over large rocks and then continue through the forest until you reach the French viewpoint. Here, you will be rewarded with incredible views of Los Cuernos, turquoise glacial lagoons, and stunning hanging glaciers cascading down the eastern face of Mount Paine Grande (3,050 m above sea level). If you’re lucky, you might hear the thunderous noise of the glacier and the water falling, and it’s also quite common to witness an avalanche. Enjoy your box lunch and take a well-deserved break. Descend along the same trail back to the Italian campsite. From here, walk to the Paine Grande refuge (2.5 hours). 

Distance: 14 or 18 kms.

Time: 6 -7 hours.

Difficulty level: High.

Accommodation: Camp.

Overnight in Paine Grande.

Meals included: Breakfast, Box Lunch, Dinner.

<span>Day 15</span>Trek to Glaciar Grey

After breakfast, remember to request your box lunch and begin today’s trek. The hike starts through a narrow, winding valley that leads to Lake Los Patos. As you continue, you will begin to see parts of the immense Southern Ice Field, as well as the icebergs from Lake Grey. After passing the sometimes very windy viewpoint, the trail descends through a mountainous forest until you reach the Grey refuge. From here, if you continue walking for about 10 minutes, you will arrive at the viewpoint of Grey Glacier, where you will be face to face with this blue ice massif. Dinner will be served at the refuge between 6:00p.m. and 9:00p.m.

Distance: 11 kms.

Time: 4 - 4,5 hours.

Difficulty level: Moderate.

Accommodation: Camp

Overnight in Grey Refuge.

Meals:Breakfast, Box Lunch, Dinner.

<span>Day 16</span>Hike to Paine Grande – 5 Catamaran - Return to Puerto Natales

If you didn’t have the chance to visit the hanging bridges the previous afternoon, you can take the morning to explore the spectacular panoramic views of Grey Glacier. Then, continue along the same trail back to Paine Grande to catch the catamaran at 6:35p.m. to Pudeto, from where you can take the bus back to Puerto Natales at 7:15p.m. The approximate arrival time in Natales is 9:30p.m.

Distance: 11 kms.

Time: 4 - 4,5 hours.

Difficulty level: Moderate.

Accommodation: Camp.

Optional: For an unforgettable view of Grey Glacier, reserve an extra 3 to 4 hours (round trip) past the refuge toward the famous hanging bridges. It is by far the best viewpoint of the glacier. In addition to admiring the impressive ice, you can see the depths of the ravines formed by the rivers and waterfalls coming from the Olguín Range. If you’re lucky, you may witness ice calving from the glacier into the cold waters of Lake Grey

Overnight in Puerto Natales: Costa Australis, Vendaval Hotel (or similar).

Meals included: Breakfast, Box Lunch.

<span>Day 17</span>Puerto Natales - Punta Arenas

Transfer from your selected hotel in Puerto Natales to Punta Arenas. Overnight in Punta Arenas: Hostal Ventisqueros, Hotel Cabo de Hornos (or similar). Meals included: Breakfast.

<span>Day 18</span>Punta Arenas: Magdalena & Marta Islands

Breakfast to-go. Early in the morning, at around 06:30 a.m., the journey begins as you head to Punta Arenas pier. From there, you'll embark on a voyage through the Strait of Magellan, visiting Magdalena and Marta Islands. Magdalena Island hosts an annual population of over 120,000 penguins, while Marta Island is home to more than 1,500 sea lions. The adventure includes a check-in at our office and a 45-minute speedboat ride from Laredo Bay to Magdalena Island. Here, you'll spend an hour with a guide exploring the natural habitat of Magellanic Penguins, one of South America's largest penguin colonies. Weather permitting, the journey may continue to Marta Island, offering opportunities to observe sea lions, imperial cormorants, Antarctic Terns, and numerous Dolphin Gulls. Lucky participants may also catch glimpses of Southern Dolphins, Piebald Dolphins, and Sei Whales. The tour concludes with a return to the pier in Punta Arenas, followed by independent transfer to your selected hotel. Warm clothing preferably waterproof and comfortable shoes. Season: From October 1 to March 31. Weather: Navigation subject to weather conditions Overnight in Punta Arenas: Hostal Ventisqueros, Hotel Cabo de Hornos (or similar). Meals included: Coffee service on board.

<span>Day 19</span>Punta Arenas - Santiago de Chile: Santiago City Tour with San Cristóbal Hill and Markets

Breakfast at the hotel. Today you will be driven to Punta Arenas airport to take your flight to Santiago de Chile. Upon arrival, our local guide will take you to explore this fantastic city. This tour offers a hotel pickup and takes you to Santiago's vibrant "Vega Central" market, filled with a diverse range of fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and spices from central Chile. The journey continues through the "little Vega," where you'll discover various meats, local eateries called "cocinerias," and spice shops. A visit to the historic "Central Market" is the highlight, known for its fresh Pacific Ocean seafood. Engaging with local shopkeepers, you'll learn about Chilean cuisine and enjoy a tasting of "Pisco Sour" and "Machas a la parmesana." The tour explores Santiago's historic sites, including "Plaza de Armas," the Metropolitan Cathedral, the Royal High Court palace, and more. A visit to Constitution Square, "La Moneda" palace (government seat), and Santa Lucia Hill is included. The day concludes with a trip to San Cristobal Hill, where you can ascend by cableway, bus, or funicular to enjoy stunning panoramic city views. The tour ends with a return transfer to your hotel. Overnight in Santiago de Chile: Ibis Las Condes (Manquehue), Cumbres Lastarria, The Singular (or similar). Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch.

<span>Day 20</span>Santiago de Chile

Breakfast at the hotel. Free day to keep exploring on your own. We suggest visiting Viña del mar and Valparaíso neighborhoods. Overnight in Santiago de Chile: Cumbres Lastarria, Hotel Magnolia, The Singular (or similar). Meals included: Breakfast.

<span>Day 21</span>Santiago de Chile - Mendoza, Argentina

This day, upon arrival in Mendoza airport your local guide will take you to a welcome tasting with lunch, in a boutique winery. Overnight in Mendoza: Lares de Chacras, Casa La Galeana, Diplomatic Hotel Mendoza (or similar). Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Welcome tasting.

<span>Day 22</span>Mendoza: Aconcagua Provincial Park Trekking program (2 days)

Experience 2 days of high-altitude trekking in Aconcagua Park, including Plaza Francia and the South Wall viewpoint. This adventure combines adrenaline, nature, and close proximity to high-altitude mountaineering. A driver will pick you up early from your hotel, and with an expert High Mountain guide, you'll head to Aconcagua Provincial Park. After equipment checks and safety precautions, the trekking begins. On the first day, you'll reach Confluencia, where you'll spend the night. This 4-hour hike takes you from 2,800 to 3,400 meters above sea level. Upon arrival, enjoy snacks, dinner in large dining tents, and rest in comfortable tents designed for mountain conditions. Overnight in Confluencia camp Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

<span>Day 23</span>Mendoza: Aconcagua Provincial Park

The following day, after an early breakfast, you'll trek to Plaza Francia along the Horcones Inferior glacier, reaching 4,100 meters in 5 hours. At the base camp, marvel at the famous South Wall of Aconcagua, one of the world's toughest and most perilous climbing routes. After a box lunch, return to Confluencia for a welcoming refreshment before descending from the park. Return to the city with unforgettable memories of your journey to the heart of the Americas' highest mountain, where you may spot condors soaring overhead, leaving you in awe of their beauty and the sacred Andean experience. Rest of the afternoon at leisure. Overnight in Mendoza: Lares de Chacras, Finca Adalgisa, Entre Cielos (or similar). Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.

<span>Day 24</span>Mendoza

Breakfast at the hotel. Free day to explore independently.

Optional tour - Uco Valley & Cooking class (Full Day): We will visit the Valle de Uco region, where we will explore Argentina’s famous wine road; stopping for visits to some of the most important wineries in the region. Accompanied by expert guides we will learn about the production facilities, the different styles of wine- making, the gastronomy and we will also enjoy an unforgettable cooking experience, where you will learn about Argentine cuisine and how to prepare a tasty empanada to culmine the experience with a delicious lunch in a local vineyard. At the end of the day you will be driven back to your hotel. Overnight in Mendoza: Lares de Chacras, Finca Adalgisa, Entre Cielos (or similar). Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch.

<span>Day 25</span>Mendoza - Buenos Aires

Breakfast at the hotel. Today you will be transferred to Mendoza airport to take your flight to Buenos Aires International airport to take your flight back home. Adiós Argentina! Meals included: Breakfast.

Destinations

Arg From BA
Arg Hiking
Buenos Aires
Chaltén Hiking
El Calafate
El Chaltén
Mdz Hiking
Mdz wine
Mendoza
Multi-Destination
Patagonia
z-Latam

Frequently asked questions

Accommodations can be tailored to your preference. Most stops along the itinerary, including stays in Buenos Aires, Patagonia, and Ushuaia, offer private rooms at hotels. Some camping experiences during the trekking portion in El Chaltén are shared, but private camping upgrades can be arranged upon request.

The ideal time to embark on the Epic Argentina & Chile: 25-Day Adventure is from October to March, when the weather is warmer, especially in Patagonia. This period also offers the best conditions for trekking and outdoor activities. However, it is possible to book year-round depending on your activity preferences.

The trekking portions, such as in Torres del Paine and El Chaltén, vary in difficulty. Some hikes, like the base of Cerro Fitz Roy or the W Circuit in Torres del Paine, are moderate to challenging and involve several hours of walking each day. The activities are suited for those with a reasonable level of fitness, but there are easier alternatives for less experienced hikers.

Flights, both international and domestic, are not included in the base price of the itinerary. However, we can assist in arranging and quoting flights for you once your travel dates and preferences are confirmed.

It’s recommended to bring good quality hiking boots, layered clothing for variable weather, a waterproof jacket, gloves, and sunglasses for protection against the sun and wind. Specific equipment for glacier trekking, such as crampons, will be provided during the excursion in El Calafate.

Tour's Location

Buenos Aires, Calafate, Chaltén, Torres del Paine, Santiago, Mendoza

Reviews

4.5/5
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(12 Reviews)
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12 reviews on this Tour - Showing 1 to 3
Ethan Harris
10/21/2024

Worth Every Penny

This adventure was well worth the investment. The views, the activities, and the people made it an unforgettable experience. The organization was top-notch, although one hotel in Patagonia didn’t meet expectations. Overall, a great trip with friends.
Olivia Scott
10/21/2024

Unforgettable Patagonia Experience

I didn’t expect to be so blown away by Patagonia! Our group had such a fantastic time, and every day was packed with adventure. The glacier hikes and the Torres del Paine trek were highlights for me. Simply incredible.
David Carter
10/21/2024

A Journey of a Lifetime

I had a great time, though a couple of days felt a bit rushed. That said, the hiking trails were absolutely incredible, and the guides were very supportive. I’m really glad I went, but a slightly slower pace would have been nice.

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From: EUR 7.520
4.5 (12 Reviews)

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Pau

Member Since 2023

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