Objective of the Manual

This Manual has been developed from the standpoint of the Client's aspirations. In it, and based on the elements that converge sequentially to build up a TRAVEL PROGRAM, (or ECOTOURISTIC PACKAGE) offered by EcoAustral (hereafter also called "eco-operator"), are specified the requirements of conduct and equipment to be applied by those offering their services (hereafter also called "suppliers") for any product offered by EcoAustral. In this summary, only the messages relating to each aspect are specified, leaving out the detailed account of conduct.

The aspects broached in this Manual are not always entirely applicable to a given product.

As a result, the different suppliers involved in a given product and the latter as a whole, will be evaluated completely, so as to define whether they are included and will remain in EcoAustral's chain of offers.

Both parties will agree to accept the assessment of supplier conformance according to the results found by the evaluations carried out by the operator's qualified personnel.

Principles and Elements
The Manual seeks to generate conduct and equipment that enables excellent services to ecotourists attended by EcoAustral, emphasizing reliability, knowledge, safety, and quality of the offer.

The service management system will operate according to the following diagram:

DIAGRAM OF THE SERVICE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

Instruments
Components
Actions

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1.- INFORMATIÓN ON THE TRAVEL PROGRAM
1.1.- Message:
Each Travel Program (Product) must be clearly characterized by the eco-operator and the respective supplier, establishing in the contract factors such as: Name, Code, price, commission or net value, periods or dates of validity, maximum number of people and the number of spaces available., special requirements and level of difficulty, description of the attractions and itineraries, principal and auxiliary services, insurance policies taken or required, skills and experience of the Guides, and other special requirements specific to the product in question, generating the absolute openness and permanent updating of the information. This information, which will be included in its entirety in the product identification forms in the respective Contracts, will be included in the means of diffusion and publicity.

1.2.- Conduct:
1.2.1- Information
The information about the Travel Program, agreed upon by the supplier, will be disclosed and published by the eco-operator, using the name, description, itinerary, etc. Eco Austral will determine these factors from the original product, maintaining the code for purposes of its commercial relationship with the supplier.
1.2.2.- Price
The price of the products must be consistent and respected by all the suppliers of the distribution chain, establishing from the beginning that the eco-operator and the supplier cannot charge a price lower than the original, even if they sell directly, saving the commission payment of the respective distributor.
1.2.3.- Preparation of the Ecotourist
In all the travel programs, the supplier and, subsequently, the eco-operator, will need to provide information about the expected weather and physical state of the place of destination during the visit, including the necessary equipment and apparel. Likewise, a general description of the places to visit, along with a respective itinerary will be given. They will make recommendations about the required responsible conduct, with respect to the environment and communities of the area. In the same manner, they will clearly explain the first aid and health services, and their location at the destination points. When possible, this information will be included in documents and will always be given upon request to the outbound operators, national agencies, and clients.
1.2.4.- Contingency Measures
In all of the programs, detailed information about safety considerations will be sent that informs the ecotourist ahead of time about contingency measures in case some central activity of the trip cannot be carried out. The suppliers are obligated to present this information to the eco-operator, regarding each product on the corresponding form.
1.2.5.- Truthfulness of the Information
The photograph, video images, drawings, schemes, etc., of the places of attraction or the services provided by the suppliers to EcoAustral must be accurate and in accordance with the reality. This refers to factors such as the infrastructure and equipment showed in the images. The eco-operator must be informed of any changes as soon as possible, in order to resolve the discrepancies in the graphic information.

2.- ATTRACTIONS AND ROUTES
2.1.- Message
EcoAustral centers its activities on attractions of a singular nature or which are rare in Chile, of cultural, scientific or scenic interest, which are under some sort of conservationist or protectionist care and in zones and periods where authorization to visit them is available, and to carry out activities that are expressly permitted, and to the conservation of which EcoAustral hopes to contribute either directly or through the suppliers operating there.
2.2.- Conduct
2.2.1.- Authorization
The attractions and attraction zones should only be visited under the authorization of the owners or administrator, in which case the established guidelines and limitations should be followed. The suppliers must have the authorization or agreement that insures the fulfillment of this obligation.
2.2.2.- Activities
In the mentioned zones, the only activities to be carried out shall be ones that are expressly authorized which do not present any risks to the environment, visitors, customs, and culture of the communities. The visitors themselves should not be exposed to risky situations that may interfere with their relaxation or enjoyment of the trip.
2.2.3.- Routes and Conduct
The guests must respect the clearly established and authorized routes and codes of conduct. These regulations will be re-enforced with adequate instructions provided to the ecotourists previous to the visit, and by visible signs that do not significantly alter the scenery.
In the case of mountaineering, climbing can only be done on authorized routes and must be in a accordance with the level of training of the group.
Any visit to risky zones must be made only with previous verification of the conditions of the route and the meteorological forecast for the duration period of the excursion. The brigades or corresponding rescue units should be informed and the supplier should formally document the excursion of the pertinent authorities.
2.2.4.- Prohibition of the Removal of Artifacts
The suppliers must require that the tourists do not remove anything from the natural and cultural attractions. The only possible goods to obtain shall be those which are sold in authorized and determined tourist centers or routes. Incentive will be given only to photography and filming, doing so without leaving traces in the places of visit.
The guides will inform the tourists of any risks or problems in cases where the light or flash from these activities holds the potential to alter the environment. It is particularly important to take note of any artifacts of value pertaining to archeology, paleontology, wealth, and environmental diversity among others, before the implementation of ecotourism.
2.2.5.- Fishing
Outdoor sport, such as sport fishing, will be practiced only in authorized areas and seasons. It is necessary to occupy a fishing license that extends to both the tourist and the guide, that is adjusted to the approved practices, which do not go against the prevailing dietary resources and habits. The quantity and quality of the fish captured must be authorized.
2.2.6.- Actions of Conservation
The suppliers or direct users of the attractions should carry out demonstrable and concrete actions in contribution to the preservation of the site, and its protection and sustainable use by tourists.
2.2.7.- Prohibited Practices in EcoAustral
The EcoAustral offer especially rules out any activity that harms or alters the resources of a given environment. This refers to the use of vehicles of any nature that contaminate the water, cause pollution or bring about artificial effects in living or nonliving things, and motorized vehicles that alter the ground or leave traces that destroy the natural setting. Fishing, hunting, or other activities that go against the conservation of natural resources or habitats, according to the judgement of the eco-operator, are also prohibited.
2.2.8.- Restroom Facilities
The eco-operator should ensure access to sanitary and regularly maintained bathrooms along the route and in the places visited.
2.2.9.- Waste Management
In all the places of visit and during the trip, the local operator should make trash containers available. These shall later be disposed of or recycled in authorized places, without harming the environment.

3.- LOCAL TRANSPORTATION
3.1.- Message
EcoAustral strives to ensure that transportation in, towards or between the attraction zones happens in safe and comfortable conditions, totally authorized, with the lowest possible levels of pollution, and that they have a defined and previously arranged contingency plan in cases of emergency.
3.2.- Conduct
3.2.1.- Authorization
All the vehicles used - land, aquatic, or air, must demonstrate at all times the following points:

a. Authorization to operate the vehicle on the route of the trip or excursion.
b. Up-to-date technical revisions.
c. Presence of a licensed conductor with previous experience operating on the route.
d. Presence of extinguishers, spare parts, and tools such as safety, rescue, and operative communication equipment.
3.2.2.- Contingency Plan
On all the land excursions, there should be a preplanned immediate assistance vehicle at hand as an alternative in case of failure of the other vehicle(s) used. It should be considered that upon the notification of a problem, the back-up vehicle must go directly to the site of the problem to pick up the passengers. This vehicle should not be more than two hours travel time away from the problem point.
3.2.3.- Operation of Vehicles
In the case of land vehicles that transport passengers, the same driver cannot drive for more than four consecutive hours without a break of at least one hour, nor for more than eight hours total per day. If the trip requires more, a second driver must be kept at hand. The same criteria apply for navigation.
In the case of trips made by air or water, the standards or authorization and licensing in Chile, as well as the authorization of the given route will be enforced.
3.2.4.- Conductors' Qualifications
In order to obtain and carry out the job, chofers, owners or captains of boats, and pilots must show proof of certification, knowledge, and previous experience on the route of the trip, ( that is in accordance with the level of difficulty of the route, showing the number of trips or hours), previous work history in the professional field, and recognized prestige.
3.2.5.- The Role of the Conductor
While conducting, the conductor cannot carry out other tasks that prevent him/her from acting as a guide or informant about the places of visit or the route itself.
3.2.6.- Safety Precautions
All the vehicles must be equipped with the necessary elements of safety ( required by national safety standards). They should be accessible, visible when possible, in operative condition, and available for inspection by any ecotourist. In the vehicle itself, all measures should be taken to avert any possible risk to passengers caused by structures, equipment, or materials. In cases where these risks may be inevitable, clear and visible notification must be posted.
All vehicles or groups of vehicles, in the case of bicycles, must have a first aid kit, tools to repair possible damage, basic spare parts, safety signs that indicate stops, buoys or any other lit up signs that facilitate getting around, communication equipment (with replacement parts if possible), safety equipment for the passengers, such as seat belts, life jackets, etc., of the necessary quantity, type, and condition.
3.2.7.-Dangerous Substances and Equipment
The vehicles must refrain from transporting equipment, materials, or substances that constitute a risk to the safety of the passengers. These include explosives, flammable products, (excluding gasoline for the vehicle, and in the corresponding case, in the appropriate containers).
3.2.8.- Passengers
The vehicles must refrain from transporting passengers other than those apart of the excursion group, maintenance staff, and those who are introduced before the beginning of the trip. Exceptions to these restrictions can be made to transport victims of serious accidents encountered on the route. In these cases, the integrity of the passengers of the excursion group must always be kept in mind.
3.2.9.- Stops
The vehicles cannot make stops or visits other than those set up in the travel program, unless the passengers are in agreement and unanimously request an alteration in the travel plans. These changes cannot go against their own safety nor that of others on the route, and must be approved by the conductor of the respective vehicle.
3.2.10.- Maintenance and Cleanliness of Motorized Vehicles
The interior must be maintained clean and neat, equipped with functioning air conditioning and heating. There must be a safe place for the equipment that does not interfere with the comfort of the passengers.
It will be the responsibility of the conductor or the crew to maintain cleanliness in all circumstances, as to not jeopardize the comfort of the travelers.
3.2.11.- Provision of Meals
All the vehicles, or groups of vehicles in the case of bicycles, must be supplied with sufficient food and provisions to be able to confront an emergency that impedes access to food and drinks.
3.2.12.- Road Assistance Points
The conductors, or guides in the case of non-motorized vehicles, must be familiar with the assistance points along the route that are related to bathrooms, first aid, police, emergency lodging (apart from the program), service stations, places for protection from bad weather, communication points in case of failure of own equipment.
3.2.13.- Horseback Riding or Vehicles Pulled by Other Animals
In the case of horseback riding or animal pulled vehicles, the physical condition of the animals used must be checked to insure the completion of the given trip or circuit. Back-up animals must be brought along, and all the regulations of the routes, places, and safety signs must be posted before hand for the vehicles to which they apply

4.- LODGINGS
4.1.- Message.
EcoAustral's offer covers a wide various types of lodging according to the nature and destination of the travel program offered. However, its intention is that they all share common attributes of safety, hygiene, authenticity, architectural congruence with the environment, comfort - to the best possible extent afforded by the circumstances in which they find themselves - and a warm and flexible service. They must ensure a time for leisure activity at the end of each day's activities.

For the purposes of description, a difference will be made between:
Hotels and Apart hotels (H)
Cabins and Motels (M)
Room and Board, Residences and Bed and Breakfasts (B&B)
Camping sites or camps in tents ( C)
4.2.- Conduct
4.2.1.- Lodging in Connected Cities
In Santiago, and likewise in other principal cities in connection with the area of destination, H or M of three stars or higher will be considered by the following criteria; Inclusion of private bathrooms, heating system and air conditioning, hot water, transportation, cafeteria and restaurant, swimming pool, jacuzzi/sauna, certification of or adherence to a system of environmental management, concrete measures to reduce contamination and save energy, inner environment with a low level of noise, explicit and implemented safety and emergency systems, clear and enforced escape routes and regulations, overall relaxing atmosphere, telephone and communication systems.
4.2.2.- Lodging in Remote Areas
The best lodging will always be chosen, from that which is available in remote areas, such as small H, M, and B&B, emphasizing the mentioned attributes in the message. In any case, it will be required by all of them, excluding campgrounds, that they have the following:

§ Regularly and daily maintained sanitation system
§ Heating system
§ Air conditioning system where the conditions require it
§ Availability of hot water
§ Hygienic and clean bathrooms that are separate from the kitchen, rooms, and common areas
§ Location in areas free from risks from natural disasters, health hazards, felonies, areas of social conflict
§ System of waste disposal, treatment, and/or removal that prevents environmental contamination
§ Skilled staff in charge of various functions, particularly administration, maintenance and reparations, supervision and sales
§ Pest control system blocks and prevents hazardous materials from harming the environment and its natural resources
§ Sufficient first aid equipment to give primary care in cases of emergencies and to transport the accident or illness victim
§ Instructions for the staff and clients for the efficient use of energy and water
§ System of outdoor lights that does not contaminate the natural lighting of the atmosphere (illuminating downward or in directions where strictly necessary)
§ Safe escape routes, clearly indicated in case of catastrophes
§ Communication system that allows for the notification of rescue units or first aid centers in case of emergency
4.2.3.- Camping Accommodations
The chosen authorized campgrounds must have:

§ Regularly and daily maintained sanitation system
§ Location in places authorized by owners, grantees or administrators of the area, which are free of risk due to natural or human causes
§ Area that is marked in order to prevent the rising of dust from the passing of authorized vehicles
§ The giving of basic instructions about rules of conduct to the tourists
§ Hygienic bathrooms with solid structure, permanently clean, with a regular system of disinfection, cleanliness, and maintenance
§ Cold and hot water
§ Separate and clean camp sites, with a regular maintenance plan
§ System of waste disposal, treatment, and/or removal that prevents environmental contamination
§ Location in areas free from risks from natural disasters, health hazards, felonies, areas of social conflict
§ Prohibition of activities that are prejudice or disturb the stay of the other tourists
§ The basic supply of food and emergency supplies for the tourists
§ Skilled staff in charge of various functions, particularly administration, maintenance and reparations, supervision and sales
§ Pest control system blocks and prevents hazardous materials from harming the environment and its natural resources
§ Sufficient first aid equipment to give primary care in cases of emergencies and to transport accident or illness victim
§ Instructions for the staff and clients for the efficient use of energy and water
§ System of outdoor lights that does not contaminate the natural lighting of the atmosphere (illuminating downward or in directions where strictly necessary)
§ Food preparation materials that avoid environmental contamination or the making of fires
§ Communication system that allows for the notification of rescue units or first aid centers in case of emergency
4.2.4.- Base Camps
This refers to the camps that must arise as a consequence of the necessity to camp over-night at some stage of the trip, as a result of bad weather. In this case, the following is required:

§ Authorization to set up camp in places chosen ahead of time
§ The pertinent authorities and administrative offices must be informed about the itinerary and location of the camps
§ An arranged system of transportable restrooms
§ Containers or sealed deposits that allow for the transport of trash to the regular points of disposal
§ Prohibition of trash or waste disposal on the paths or campgrounds
§ Sufficient first aid equipment to give primary care in cases of emergencies and to transport accident or illness victim
§ System of outdoor lights that does not contaminate the natural lighting of the atmosphere
§ (illuminating downward or in directions where strictly necessary)
§ Food preparation materials that avoid environmental contamination or the making of fires
§ Availability of tent(s) and other basic equipment like sleeping bags, stoves, lanterns, and fuel tanks, that allow for replacement in case of emergency
§ Communication system that allows for the notification of rescue units or first aid centers in case of emergency
4.2.5.- Indoor Environment
In all the establishments and lodging centers, cleanliness and permanent hygiene should be maintained in all enclosed areas, preventing the presence of mosquitoes, insects, or other animals, dirtiness within the infrastructure, equipment, utensils, staff uniforms, and general environment. The decoration and environment should be in accordance with the culture and traditions of the place, emphasizing elements of authenticity in the types of products and ecotouristic activities they provide.
In all cases, the existence of factors, of any nature, that threaten the safety of the guests, such as unmarked stairs, loose boards, sharp objects, slippery floors, edges without handrails, etc. In cases where these situations are inevitable, the risks should be posted clearly and visibly.
4.2.6.- Traveler Reception and Information Services
The arrivals of tourists should be planned so that the client does not have to wait more than five minutes for service. If it turns out that more time is needed, the client should be informed ahead of time and provided with a comfortable waiting place. The guests shouldn't be brought to arrive before check-in time, making them wait for long, unforeseen periods of time. If this were to occur, the transporter or operator responsible should solve the problem so the client doesn't experience any inconvenience. If the rooms are not ready, due to delays of the hotel, the hotel will be responsible for solving the problem without inconveniencing the client.
The reception staff should always greet the clients cordially and explain the registration process of the establishment, providing the corresponding forms. Later, they must explain, in sequence, the basic services, the provided sources of information, courteously answering any of the client's questions. If questions carry on for an extended period of time, the staff member should commit themselves to attend to the client's concerns in detail, as soon as possible. Finally, the host should explain to the clients clearly (and when possible with a map) about how to get to their room and the assistance that is available to them. The transfer of luggage is a service that should manifest itself always, notwithstanding, the client may refuse it. Tipping is never an obligation, and under no circumstances should the guest be pressured to do it nor be treated with less courtesy than other clients.
4.2.7.- Infrastructure and Equipment Insurance
Except temporary camps, the establishment must always have insurance plans for valuable objects that the guest carries, including personal items or big equipment.
The establishments should have systems in the guests' rooms that are operated with an access code or key to which only the guest has access, or vault deposits or safe central security boxes in the hotel. In any case, the hotel must keep a record of the deposited value and respond to any possible theft or loss for the total owed and agreed upon by both parties ahead of time.
In the case of campgrounds and excursions, it is emphasized that valuable personal items not be brought, and therefore it will not be obligatory to have an established insurance system as in the cases mentioned above.

5.- GASTRONOMY AND MEALS
5.1.- Message
EcoAustral's Offer strives to ensure that the food in its programs is secure for the people, prioritizing authenticity and emphasizing local food, while nevertheless considering alternatives for people with special requirements, attempting to anticipate these requirements before the visitors arrive. At all times, reserves of non-perishable packed food, sanitized water, and sanitation agents for the food and its accompanying utensils must be at hand.
5.2.- Conduct
5.2.1.- Characteristics of the Various Areas of the Establishment
The storage and food preparation areas in H, M, B&B, and restaurants must follow all applicable health and hygiene regulations, in their installation as well as in operation, having the quality approval of an authorized provider, maintaining a regular cleanliness and sanitation plan in all of them. Consequently, the facilities must be in the condition to demonstrate up-to-date authorization and control results by the appropriate institutions. The areas must be, when possible, washable, including walls, ceilings, and floors. Likewise, all appliances must be maintained in an impeccable state of cleanliness, including electric domestic appliances, cooking utensils and equipment, counters, etc.
The storage areas must be kept dry and well ventilated, and must conform to the corresponding regulations.
5.2.2.- Food Waste Disposal
Food waste and leftovers must be removed permanently from the kitchen, disposed of in faraway containers so that they do not emit bad odors or leak, preventing the infestation of mosquitoes or other insects as well as the contamination of the area or of the interior of the establishment.
5.2.3.- Health Quality of the Food
In all possible cases, the establishment should demand health certification of the food brought from outside sources.
5.2.4.- Quality Control
All establishment must have available a quality control system of prepared foods that ensures the quality and presentation of dishes that come out of the kitchen.
5.2.5.- General and Cleanliness Conditions of the Areas and Utensils
In the restaurant areas as well as in all the implements used there, curtains, tablecloths, napkins, dishes, etc. must be maintained in an impeccable state of cleanliness, without damages or stains.
The dishes and place settings must be checked over before and during their placement on the table, removing any items that are not clean or in good condition, preventing the client from confronting these circumstances. The same criteria will be applied to the menus and anything else related to the table.
5.2.6.- Appearance and Cleanliness of Personnel
The storage area and food preparation personnel must wear white uniforms and hats, plus disposable covers for the shoes. In the case of working in the kitchen, the staff must wear masks over the mouth and nose.
The staff must have short and tied back hair, and cut and clean nails. In case of cuts on hands, the employee can only word once the cut is taken care of, using gloves that prevent contact between the affected area and food.
Workers with colds or other contagious illnesses cannot work in these areas.
The staff must be bathed to give the presence cleanliness while working.
Personnel that serves tables, as well as receives restaurant guests must.
6.- GUIDES
6.1.- Message
EcoAustral's products must be serviced by Guides who have accredited education or training or who have satisfactory experience certifiable by one or more previous employers in the area of ecotourism. The Guides must perform their function with adequate and apparent knowledge of the activities and attractions in which they are involved, showing warmth and agreeable receptiveness to the demands and needs of the ecotourists. Further, they must have leadership capabilities and be able to confront unforeseen situations, while dominating the language of the group they are guiding in a satisfactory manner. This last must be demonstrated by the fluency of their explanations, a continuing and satisfactory perception by the group, and the Guide's ease at understanding the questions that arise.
Finally, the Guides must possess a satisfactory general education that is up-to-date regarding the culture and history of the location, region and country in which they operate.
6.2 Conduct
6.2.1.- Certification
The guides should have certification from educational or training institutions or active employment in ecotourism that confirms their qualification, training, and experience in their area of work.
6.2.2.- Languages
Guides that take part in guided activities in languages other than Spanish, should demonstrate their ability to guide in the given language through certification issued by educational or training institutions, cultural institutions, or former tourism employers, which verifies the adequate level of skill to guide groups in their activities.
6.2.3.- First Aid
In all cases, the guides should have accredited training in first aid and the supervision of safety. It is asked that they have training in the operation of emergency communication systems and environmentally responsible conduct in ecotourism and tourism in natural settings.
6.2.4.- Drivers' License
The guides should have a drivers' license, even is they do not work as chofers or drivers during the activities.
6.2.5.- Accredited Health Condition
The guides should have health certificates (physical and mental) in which it states that they are in adequate health to practice their duty as guides.
Generally the guides should maintain and demonstrate a physical condition that is adequate for that which is demanded by the activity they are guiding.
6.2.6.- History and Culture of the Environment
The guides must demonstrate knowledge about the history and culture of the local place, region, and country concerned, giving special emphasis to geographical, natural, ethnic, social, economic, and political factors.
6.2.7.- Interpretations and Stories
The Guides will develop their interpretations based on stories or narrations (scripted) that will need to be written, although not read nor reproduced exactly the same during the activity. In some documents there should be a record of the story that corresponds to each section, milestone or attraction, activity or other outstanding aspects, during the guiding.
6.2.8.- Attitude
The Guides should be warm, welcoming, friendly, and sure of their abilities, acting as real leaders of the group. They should always open opportunities for participation and contribution of the ecotourist during the activities.
6.2.9.- Listening to the Client
The Guides should take note of the needs and aspirations of the tourists while guiding the excursions, and inform the company of how it can permanently improve the products offered. Likewise when possible, they should bring into discussion concrete proposals of how to improve important aspects of the activities.
6.2.10.- Honesty and Responsibility in the Information
The Guides must answer the ecotourists' questions honestly and objectively, citing the information sources in cases where they are known. When not knowledgeable about an asked question, the Guides should state it clearly, take note, and take it upon themselves to answer the question upon return to the base or by mailing the response via email or regular mail after the tourist's departure. The guide must carry out the completion of this commitment with strictness.
6.2.11.- Support Guide
In any given excursion or trip, there should be two people in good condition to guide the group. If the assigned guide, for reasons beyond control, is impeded from carrying out the activity, there will be an immediate replacement available.
6.2.12.- Personal Appearance
The Guides should always present an impeccable personal appearance, considering that the terrain allows for it. Operative equipment and clothing should be clean, neat, and accessible.
6.2.13.- Instructions for the Ecotourist
At the beginning and periodically during the guided activity, the guide should transmit clear instructions to the group about the program and expected conduct of the ecotourists, use of equipment and materials, particularly giving warning as to any possible risks and environmentally responsible conduct that must be followed at all times. Likewise, in these cases, the guide must explain the contingency plans before the occurrence of situations that may alter the program of the excursion or some of its activities.
6.2.14.- Cancellation of an Activity
The Guide can cancel an activity temporarily or definitely in the case that there emerges a risk to the physical or mental condition of any person in the group. All group members must be informed of the decision and its causes. The activities will resume when the problem is rectified or at a later agreed upon date.
6.2.15.- Changes in the Itinerary or Program
The Guides cannot make changes in the activities or programs at their own will, except when special circumstances require it. The guide may receive suggestions from the group about minor adjustments that are formed unanimously, which cannot set back the program in its entirety, putting risk the safety of the group, or generate a need for more human resources, materials, or time.
6.2.16.- Animal, Equipment, and Supply Checking
The Guide should personally supervise and participate in the checking process of the condition of the staff, equipment, animals, and the rest of the resources or implements to be used during an excursion, giving her/his approval for the use.

"THIS MANUAL HAS NO PURPOSE OTHER THAN TO BE A GUIDE IN SERVING IN THE BEST POSSIBLE MANNER A GROUP OF CLIENTS WHO SHARE NOT ONLY THE INTENTION TO ENJOY NATURE, BUT WHO WISH TO DO IT IN A MANNER FULLY AWARE OF AND INTENT ON THE VALUE OF ITS CONSERVATION. THEREFORE, WE ADMIT THAT WE MAY IMPROVE THIS INSTRUMENT A LITTLE EACH DAY, WITH THE HELP OF EXPERIENCE AND OF OUR OWN FRIENDS AND VISITORS FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD".

Santiago, January 2002
INVERSIONES Y TURISMO
DE INTERESES ESPECIALES S.A.
ECOAUSTRAL

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