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Swoop says

Please be aware that we require you to have a suitable travel insurance policy in place before you depart on your Patagonia adventure. This guide will help you understand more about arranging insurance, but if you have any concerns or questions do get in touch. 

When to arrange insurance

Travel insurance is a mandatory requirement for all travellers and is not included in the price of your trip.

We would recommend that you arrange insurance directly after booking, not only to protect your investment as soon as possible but also because some insurance policies may offer a reduced level of coverage if not purchased shortly after paying your deposit.

What your travel policy should include

Hikers at Glacier Grey

Group hike, Torres del Paine

Group hike, Torres del Paine

Hikers in front of Torres del Paine mountains

Swoop Patagonia is unable to provide travel insurance recommendations due to UK regulations. However, we are happy to discuss your needs with you and to share other customers' experiences.

When reviewing your intended insurance package there are a number of standard requirements that we think every good travel policy should include:

  • Cancellation, delayed departure and curtailment/interruption costs
  • Financial failure of agent or partner
  • Emergency medical and other expenses including medical evacuation or repatriation and cover for any pre-existing medical conditions
  • Hospital inconvenience benefit
  • Personal accident
  • Death
  • Loss of limb(s)/sight
  • Permanent total disablement
  • Delayed/lost baggage or lost passport
  • Lost personal money or documents
  • Personal liability cover
  • Disruption including airspace closure
  • Missed departure/connection
  • Travel risks such as hijack/mugging etc
  • Legal expenses

Please note these are general guidelines. For more detailed information on what is required for your specific trip please refer to your partner's terms and conditions, and consider your own individual needs and circumstances. It is also important to check whether your insurance will cover you in the event of any changes to governmental travel advisories which are relevant to your trip.

Topics to discuss with your insurer

Here are some considerations for you to talk through with your insurer prior to purchasing your insurance policy. Please note that this is not an exclusive list and you should ensure that you discuss any relevant personal circumstances which may apply to your insurance purchase.

  1. Does the cancellation coverage amount cover the full cost of the itinerary (plus any flights and hotel arrangements booked separately)?
    It’s important to check that there is no maximum coverage limit, or that your trip cost does not exceed any maximum amount.
  2. Is a “Cancel for Any Reason” policy available and what are the terms and conditions?
    This may give you greater flexibility and coverage.
  3. Does the policy cover any specific requirements set out by your Patagonia partner?
    This may include mandatory emergency evacuation coverage to a certain value. Also, some insurance policies may require you to pay an additional add-on for trekking. 
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Zoe says

Having the right insurance for your adventure gives you peace of mind before and during your travels. Taking time to research options and scrutinise the details is a worthwhile investment!

Zoe Winterbotham Patagonia Customer Experience Team Leader

Travelling to Chile and/or Argentina

Cerro San Cristobal, Santiago

Chile does not require any specific Covid-19 insurance for entry to, or travel throughout the country. This measure was dropped in 2023, with the exception of Easter Island which does maintain some specific entry requirements. Please be aware this situation may change and it's important for you to monitor the latest situation before travel

Argentina does not require any specific Covid-19 insurance for entry to, or travel throughout the country. This measure was dropped in 2022. Please be aware this situation may change and you need to monitor the latest situation before travel.


Both governments highly recommend having coverage for incidents such as medical costs, quarantine and trip suspension, in case such measures are reintroduced.

When travelling to South America

You should be prepared to show your airline your insurance documents if they require these from you.

As well as ensuring your full policy is available on your phone, you should carry a printout (and possibly a spare copy in case you lose one). 

View of Bariloche in Argentina's Lake District from the air

View of Bariloche from the air

Insurance according to nationality

Swoop Patagonia is unable to provide travel insurance recommendations due to UK regulations. However, we are happy to discuss your needs with you and to share other customers' experiences.

When choosing an insurance provider, please refer to your partner's terms and conditions and consider your own individual needs and circumstances.

Other important information

Booking flights

Booking flights

Getting to your trip starting location will most likely involve some air travel. Here is our brief guide on flights; including reservations, taxes and baggage.

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