Antarctic Exploration
Discover the 7th Continent - Sample Itinerary
Days: 10 | From: $xxxx/per person
- First class expedition cruises
- Small-group excursions led by top naturalist guides
See why Antarctica has inspired intrepid travelers for centuries. Journey through the unforgettable wilderness of the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula, looking for wildlife and vistas found nowhere else in the world.
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We tailor itineraries to your dates and interests, adjusting hotels, excursions and length as desired.
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At a glance
- Ushuaia
1 night: visit the world's southernmost city, gateway to Tierra del Fuego National Park - Antarctica
8 nights: enjoy an expedition cruise to the White Continent
All itineraries are fully customizable. We will send you a personalized variation that reflects your interests and travel dates at no extra cost. Call to discuss your travel plans with one of our Specialists who know this region firsthand.
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Sample itinerary
Arrive to Ushuaia, Argentina
Fly to Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world. The city is located in Tierra del Fuego, so named by European sailors in the 1500s for their sighting of innumerable bonfires built by the native Yaghan people. Windswept Ushuaia is surrounded by the snowcapped Martial Mountains, and your charming boutique hotel offers views out over the Beagle Channel.
Accommodations: Los Cauquenes
Located on the outskirts of Ushuaia and built of natural wood and stone, Los Cauquenes blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings. The hotel’s 54 guest rooms feature picture windows overlooking the Beagle Channel and the snowcapped peaks of the Andes. Los Cauquenes offers a restaurant and bar, fitness center, indoor/outdoor heated pool, and spa. The hotel sits about 4 miles outside of Ushuaia, on the shore of the Beagle Channel, and is a refined and exceptional option as a base for exploring Tierra del Fuego.
Upgrades and alternatives: Tierra de Leyendas, Alto AndinoEmbarkation
Enjoy the morning exploring Ushuaia. In the late afternoon you will board your ship, which then sails down the historic Beagle Channel that transects the Tierra del Fuego archipelago.
Crossing the Drake Passage
Cross the famous Drake Passage, an unpredictable and ever-changing waterway. Spend this time getting to know your shipmates, participating in briefings and presentations led by your naturalist guides, and taking in the flowing water and crisp air of this region.
South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula
Leave the Antarctic Convergence behind and prepare for your first sight of land. Each day includes Zodiac excursions from the ship to explore local channels and landing sites. Look for penguins, humpback whales, and a variety of seal species. Walk silent pebbled beaches and trek up snow-covered peaks. Some ships offer the chance to kayak or Stand Up Paddle among the region’s majestic glaciers, or to camp or go cross-country skiing on the continent.
Crossing the Drake Passage
Journey back across the Drake Passage. Watch for seabirds and whales, enjoy more presentations from your guides and expedition leaders, or simply relax and enjoy the trip.
Disembark in Ushuaia
Arrive to Ushuaia in the morning, then continue your adventure or transfer to the airport for your flight home.
More Photos From This Trip
Popular Ways to Customize This Itinerary
Spend time before or after your cruise exploring vibrant Buenos Aires, the capital of Argentina.
Get to know spectacular southern Argentina: Buenos Aires, Tierra Del Fuego & Argentine Patagonia
Why Travel with Vaya?
We're TRUE specialists
South America is the only place we do trips, and no one knows our destinations better. Our smart and engaging specialists are all current or former U.S. expatriates with years of experience in the region.
Uplifting service
From the first phone call to after you get back, we're here for you every step of the way. We listen, create, customize and advocate for you, and design experiences that go beyond the expected.
Thoughtful, respectful travel
Our discerning sensibility and good taste go beyond just choices in hotels and top guides; we have a walk the walk commitment to the environment and are genuine leaders in conservation efforts.