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High school youth summit focused on public health, climate change, and equity

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Campus-based climate change program for grades 9–12

Patagonia: Skiing

Skiing at the End of the Earth

July 17 — August 2
$8,190 + airfare

Patagonia: Skiing

Skiing at the End of the Earth

July 17 — August 2
$8,190 + airfare

Cool off this summer by heading south to explore the wilds of Patagonia on a winter student travel adventure to the “end of the world.” Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Buenos Aires, then venture toward the Antarctic Circle into the open, blue horizons of Patagonia. Explore the majestic power of azure glaciers descending from remote mountain peaks, snowshoe through the peaceful, snow-covered forests of Tierra del Fuego, and ski the varied terrain of Cerro Castor.

• Ski the beautiful and varied terrain of Cerro Castor
• Observe blue ice crevasses while trekking atop the Perito Moreno Glacier
• Dog sled and snowshoe through Tierra del Fuego’s forests
• Roast your dinner outside in a traditional Argentine asado
“He most loved seeing and trekking on the glacier, which he found stunningly beautiful and like nothing he’d seen before. He got a new sense of wonder at nature.”
—Emily Newman & Gregory Katz, San Francisco, CA

Itinerary

This itinerary represents our best projection of the group’s schedule. However, we may implement changes designed to improve the quality of the program.

Departure — Travel Day

Meet your fellow high school student travelers and one or more of your leaders in New York, and fly together to Buenos Aires, Argentina. To learn more about how we organize travel, click here.

Buenos Aires — 3 days

Begin your program in Buenos Aires, where you get to know your group and learn about the history, art, and culture of the city known as the “Paris of the South.” Hop on bicycles and explore the city and the cobblestone streets of El Tigre. Soak up the capital’s eclectic mix of European and South American architecture, listen to the beats and rhythms of a live tango orchestra, and savor the flame-grilled tastes of Argentina’s signature meal, the asado.

El Chaltén — 2 days

From Buenos Aires, fly south to El Calafate, then head north to El Chaltén, the “National Capital of Trekking” and a relatively new mecca for adventure travelers. Breathe in the fresh mountain air and take a guided hike around a frozen lake and through a high mountain forest. Eat lunch under two of the world's most famous peaks—Mount Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre—while taking in the first of many glacier views.

El Calafate — 3 days

Travel back to El Calafate, a mountain town in the heart of Patagonia. Situated on windswept bluffs along the shores of Lake Argentino, El Calafate is our base camp for exploration on and around the Perito Moreno Glacier. Learn about the Southern Patagonian Ice Field at the Glaciarium Museum. Strap on crampons and trek atop one of the world’s only advancing glaciers.

Ushuaia — 6 days

Take a short flight from El Calafate to Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world and the winter adventure capital of Argentina. Surrounded by dramatic, snow-covered peaks and pristine fjords, explore this winter wonderland on skis and snowshoes. Gear up and lock in for five full days of downhill skiing on the slopes of Cerro Castor. Try either backcountry skiing or cross country skiing on the Martial Glacier. Mush through snowy meadows and frosty forests on dog sleds. Trace the history of early explorers and search for rare wildlife from a boat in the cold waters of Beagle Channel, the gateway to Cape Horn and the Southern Seas. Spend the evenings relaxing in cozy, warm accommodations, reliving memories made on each day’s adventures.

Return — Travel Day

Fly with your group and a leader from Ushuaia to Buenos Aires, where you will enjoy one final asado. Then, fly to New York, arriving the following morning, and continue on to your final destination. To learn more about how we organize travel, click here.

Itinerary

This itinerary represents our best projection of the group’s schedule. However, we may implement changes designed to improve the quality of the program.

Departure — Travel Day

Meet your fellow high school student travelers and one or more of your leaders in New York, and fly together to Buenos Aires, Argentina. To learn more about how we organize travel, click here.

Buenos Aires — 3 days

Begin your program in Buenos Aires, where you get to know your group and learn about the history, art, and culture of the city known as the “Paris of the South.” Hop on bicycles and explore the city and the cobblestone streets of El Tigre. Soak up the capital’s eclectic mix of European and South American architecture, listen to the beats and rhythms of a live tango orchestra, and savor the flame-grilled tastes of Argentina’s signature meal, the asado.

El Chaltén — 2 days

From Buenos Aires, fly south to El Calafate, then head north to El Chaltén, the “National Capital of Trekking” and a relatively new mecca for adventure travelers. Breathe in the fresh mountain air and take a guided hike around a frozen lake and through a high mountain forest. Eat lunch under two of the world's most famous peaks—Mount Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre—while taking in the first of many glacier views.

El Calafate — 3 days

Travel back to El Calafate, a mountain town in the heart of Patagonia. Situated on windswept bluffs along the shores of Lake Argentino, El Calafate is our base camp for exploration on and around the Perito Moreno Glacier. Learn about the Southern Patagonian Ice Field at the Glaciarium Museum. Strap on crampons and trek atop one of the world’s only advancing glaciers.

Ushuaia — 6 days

Take a short flight from El Calafate to Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world and the winter adventure capital of Argentina. Surrounded by dramatic, snow-covered peaks and pristine fjords, explore this winter wonderland on skis and snowshoes. Gear up and lock in for five full days of downhill skiing on the slopes of Cerro Castor. Try either backcountry skiing or cross country skiing on the Martial Glacier. Mush through snowy meadows and frosty forests on dog sleds. Trace the history of early explorers and search for rare wildlife from a boat in the cold waters of Beagle Channel, the gateway to Cape Horn and the Southern Seas. Spend the evenings relaxing in cozy, warm accommodations, reliving memories made on each day’s adventures.

Return — Travel Day

Fly with your group and a leader from Ushuaia to Buenos Aires, where you will enjoy one final asado. Then, fly to New York, arriving the following morning, and continue on to your final destination. To learn more about how we organize travel, click here.

Featured

Leaders

Meet some of our featured leaders. Please note that these may not be your leaders for the program. 

CropXPATA Lucas Nocera
Lucas Nocera
View Bio
CropSCRB XPATA Anabelle Baldwin 2
Annabelle Baldwin
View Bio
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Featured

Leaders

Meet some of our featured leaders. Please note that these may not be your leaders for the program. 

CropXPATA Lucas Nocera
Lucas Nocera
View Bio
CropSCRB XPATA Anabelle Baldwin 2
Annabelle Baldwin
View Bio
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About the Destination

Argentina's rich history as a cultural and economic hub in South America is a source of national pride. Buenos Aires, shaped by European immigration, blends Western European influences with Latin American art, architecture, and cuisine. In Patagonia, stunning landscapes feature windswept steppes, glacial lakes, and mountains, with small towns serving as market crossroads for local ranchers. Our adventure focuses on two key hubs: El Calafate and Ushuaia.

Language

Spanish is the official language of Argentina, and the unique Argentine accent is easily identified by Spanish speakers around the world. Many Argentines speak English in Buenos Aires and within the tourism industry, but Spanish is spoken elsewhere. In general, Argentines are warm and open to sharing their way of life, and receptive to attempts by travelers to speak their language.

Climate

Argentina is a large country with a variable climate. Our travels take place during the heart of austral winter. The latitude of Buenos Aires is similar to that of Charlotte, North Carolina, and its winter temperatures are quite moderate, with highs typically from 50–60°F (10–15°C) and occasional periods of rain. In Patagonia, the weather is quite cool with high temperatures around 30°F (-1°C) and generally dry and breezy. The climate in and around Ushuaia is a winter paradise with almost daily snowfall, making the area ideal for winter activities.

Cuisine

Argentina is famous for its high quality, slow-cooked beef and lamb asados. While meat forms an important part of the local diet, Italian and Spanish influences abound. Empanadas stuffed with cheese and vegetables, espresso-based coffees, artisanal pastries, handmade pastas, fresh salads and vegetables, and wood-fired pizzas round out the national cuisine. Argentines pride themselves on quality food and a vibrant restaurant culture. There is something for everyone, and the food is delicious!

About the Destination

Argentina's rich history as a cultural and economic hub in South America is a source of national pride. Buenos Aires, shaped by European immigration, blends Western European influences with Latin American art, architecture, and cuisine. In Patagonia, stunning landscapes feature windswept steppes, glacial lakes, and mountains, with small towns serving as market crossroads for local ranchers. Our adventure focuses on two key hubs: El Calafate and Ushuaia.

Language

Spanish is the official language of Argentina, and the unique Argentine accent is easily identified by Spanish speakers around the world. Many Argentines speak English in Buenos Aires and within the tourism industry, but Spanish is spoken elsewhere. In general, Argentines are warm and open to sharing their way of life, and receptive to attempts by travelers to speak their language.

Climate

Argentina is a large country with a variable climate. Our travels take place during the heart of austral winter. The latitude of Buenos Aires is similar to that of Charlotte, North Carolina, and its winter temperatures are quite moderate, with highs typically from 50–60°F (10–15°C) and occasional periods of rain. In Patagonia, the weather is quite cool with high temperatures around 30°F (-1°C) and generally dry and breezy. The climate in and around Ushuaia is a winter paradise with almost daily snowfall, making the area ideal for winter activities.

Cuisine

Argentina is famous for its high quality, slow-cooked beef and lamb asados. While meat forms an important part of the local diet, Italian and Spanish influences abound. Empanadas stuffed with cheese and vegetables, espresso-based coffees, artisanal pastries, handmade pastas, fresh salads and vegetables, and wood-fired pizzas round out the national cuisine. Argentines pride themselves on quality food and a vibrant restaurant culture. There is something for everyone, and the food is delicious!

What to Expect

Review specific program expectations here. For more general information:

Exploration

To learn more about our Exploration programs click here.

Physical Activity

The skiing program in Patagonia is a very active adventure travel experience. It’s important that you come prepared for winter weather and exposure to snow. Participants should arrive with an adventurous, can-do spirit, ready to experience a southern winter and possible snowfall during the trip. Program days are full of winter activities—downhill skiing, snowshoeing, cross country skiing, hiking, dog sledding, and glacier trekking. You do not need to be at peak fitness to participate, but it is important that you have a desire to be physically active, that you enjoy winter weather, and that you are excited about trying all activities.

Accommodations

Accommodations in Argentina are varied, ranging from comfortable, family-run hostels with cozy communal areas for group meals and evening chats, to warm, rustic mountain refugios providing home-cooked meals and open common spaces surrounded by views of snowy peaks. Rooms are a mix of doubles, triples, and quads. Leaders reside together with the students throughout the program.

Meals

We begin each day with a traditional Argentine breakfast at our residence. For lunches and dinners we find small restaurants or hit the markets to purchase food for a picnic. Argentines savor their meals, taking time to gather with family and friends at the table, eat slowly, and enjoy one another’s company. One night on the program we prepare a family meal, cooking and enjoying it together as a group.

What to Expect

Review specific program expectations here. For more general information:

Exploration

To learn more about our Exploration programs click here.

Physical Activity

The skiing program in Patagonia is a very active adventure travel experience. It’s important that you come prepared for winter weather and exposure to snow. Participants should arrive with an adventurous, can-do spirit, ready to experience a southern winter and possible snowfall during the trip. Program days are full of winter activities—downhill skiing, snowshoeing, cross country skiing, hiking, dog sledding, and glacier trekking. You do not need to be at peak fitness to participate, but it is important that you have a desire to be physically active, that you enjoy winter weather, and that you are excited about trying all activities.

Accommodations

Accommodations in Argentina are varied, ranging from comfortable, family-run hostels with cozy communal areas for group meals and evening chats, to warm, rustic mountain refugios providing home-cooked meals and open common spaces surrounded by views of snowy peaks. Rooms are a mix of doubles, triples, and quads. Leaders reside together with the students throughout the program.

Meals

We begin each day with a traditional Argentine breakfast at our residence. For lunches and dinners we find small restaurants or hit the markets to purchase food for a picnic. Argentines savor their meals, taking time to gather with family and friends at the table, eat slowly, and enjoy one another’s company. One night on the program we prepare a family meal, cooking and enjoying it together as a group.

A Day in the Life: Ushuaia

Due to the traveling nature of this student program abroad, each day is different. Here is a snapshot of a day in Ushuaia.
8:00am
Enjoy breakfast at your hostel
9:00am
Arrive at the slopes of Cerro Castor to catch the first chair up the mountain
10:00am
Ski the groomed slopes and fresh powder of Cerro Castor with your group
2:00pm
Break for lunch at a mid-mountain lodge with magnificent views
3:00pm
Hike and ski the dramatic ridgelines of Cerro Castor
5:00pm
Drink hot chocolate or steeped mate around a warm fire
6:00pm
Return to Ushuaia to relax and shower before dinner
8:00pm
Go out to dinner in Ushuaia as a group
10:00pm
Group meeting to discuss the day and what’s ahead for tomorrow

A Day in the Life:
Ushuaia

Due to the traveling nature of this student program abroad, each day is different. Here is a snapshot of a day in Ushuaia.
8:00am
Enjoy breakfast at your hostel
9:00am
Arrive at the slopes of Cerro Castor to catch the first chair up the mountain
10:00am
Ski the groomed slopes and fresh powder of Cerro Castor with your group
2:00pm
Break for lunch at a mid-mountain lodge with magnificent views
3:00pm
Hike and ski the dramatic ridgelines of Cerro Castor
5:00pm
Drink hot chocolate or steeped mate around a warm fire
6:00pm
Return to Ushuaia to relax and shower before dinner
8:00pm
Go out to dinner in Ushuaia as a group
10:00pm
Group meeting to discuss the day and what’s ahead for tomorrow
“Using and improving my Spanish skills gave me the greatest sense of accomplishment, as well as skiing difficult terrain. My entire time at Cerro Castor stands out to me, because I pushed my skiing ability to the max, interacted with a wide variety of people in Spanish, and ate some delicious alfajores.”
—Allison J., John Burroughs School, St. Louis, MO
mackenzie-grapes

Program Directed by

Mackenzie Grapes

If you have questions or would like to talk further about this program, please get in touch!

mackenzie-grapes

Program Directed by

Mackenzie Grapes

If you have questions or would like to talk further about this program, please get in touch!

Enroll in two programs & save $1,000!

$800 tuition discount + no application fee