FAQs for parents, Argentina summer camp

For Parents:

Let my kid go to Argentina alone? Are you serious??

Yup, we’re serious. It’s not as crazy as it sounds — All-Star has been bringing clients between the ages of 12 and 18 to Argentina and returning them safely for the past seven years. Our experienced staff of coaches and counselors provide round-the-clock supervision, both on and off the hill. Better yet, it’s a crew of counselors that your kid will actually want to hang out with. Take a few minutes and read through the Q&A below, and then call us to find out how your teenager can experience the best summer snow program in the world.

Is Argentina safe?

Absolutely. Argentina is one of the most developed nations in South America, and is an ideal setting for an incredible and safe experience in a foreign country. Argentina is a stable democracy, and has an extremely high standard of living. Bariloche, the city where All-Staris based, is one of the safest in Argentina. Check out the “Travel/Safety” section by using the tabs above to learn more.

What about Buenos Aires? How will my son/daughter make the transfer to the domestic airport?

Under-18 participants at All-Star are required to use the exclusive All-Star airport transfer service. All-Star generally has participants (both adults and Under-18) flying on every major flight leaving North America, so it’s unlikely he/she will be alone during the flight. A list of other participants traveling on the same flight can be provided, and “Unaccompanied Minor” services are available from the airlines for an additional fee. After disembarking the aircraft, your child will be required to proceed through customs. English-speaking airline personnel are available to assist in the customs area. Immediately after clearing customs, a All-Star representative will meet your child and transfer them directly to a shuttle to the domestic airport. An All-Star representative will stay with all Under-18 participants until the domestic flight departs to Bariloche. Upon arrival in Bariloche, you son/daughter will be met by All-Starstaff and board the shuttle for a short ride to our lodging at Cerro Catedral. The same process is repeated in reverse for their return flight to the United States. Please see the “Travel/Safety” section for more information.

What will my teenager need to clear customs without me?

Your son/daughter will need 3 Documents to clear customs in Buenos Aires:

Valid Passport (Make 3 copies and place them in separate bags!)
$110 in Cash or Credit Card for their Argentina entry visa (valid for ten years).
Notarized Parental Consent & Travel Authorization Letter

Can my teenager ride alone while at the mountain?

No. Your son/daughter will be placed into a group based on their ability level and goals for the session. Some groups will focus on backcountry riding, while others will focus on freestyle or park skills. Their guide/coach will be responsible for supervision while on the mountain. We maintain constant radio contact with all groups while on the mountain, in addition to cell phones. All-Star also communicates with the Cerro Catedral-Alta Patagonia Ski Patrol when required.

What about the avalanche risk in the backcountry?

All All-Star guides and coaches are AIARE-certified in avalanche and backcountry safety. In addition, our Head Guide Skylar Holgate and his colleagues perform snow safety checks in all backcountry zones prior to allowing groups to proceed. All All-Star participants ski/ride with an Avalanche Beacon, Shovel and Probe at all times. THIS EQUIPMENT IS REQUIRED AT ALL TIMES. It is available for rental from All-Star in Argentina at $100 per week, but we recommend purchasing this equipment in advance, as it will last for years to come.

Will my son/daughter get to experience Argentine culture?

Absolutely. All-Star staff routinely schedules excursions to various cultural attractions or the downtown area. Supervision will be provided at all times.