South America and Antarctica Odyssey 2024-25 Season
24 Days - Various dates
Embark on a 24-day South American and Antarctica odyssey, starting in Buenos Aires with a Tango show and city tours. Then, set sail for Antarctica, exploring the the Antarctic Peninsula's breathtaking landscape, with its free-floating tabular icebergs, massive glaciers, and awe-inspiring ice cliffs. Return to Ushuaia, visit Tierra del Fuego National Park, witness the Perito Moreno Glacier in El Calafate, and discover the wonders of the famous Torres del Paine National Park. Conclude your journey in Santiago with an exclusive city tour and explore Valparaiso, Viña del Mar, and the vineyards. This meticulously crafted itinerary seamlessly blends adventure, culture, and natural beauty for an unforgettable experience!
from NZD $27091pp
Prices shown after discount
Home » 24 Day South America and Antarctica Odyssey 2024-25 Season
Itinerary Highlights
- Visit both the Chilean and Argentinean sides of Patagonia and see the incredible Torres del Paine National Park and the iconic Perito Moreno glacier
- Tick off your bucket list and sail to the Antarctica Peninsula
- Bookend your trip with visits to two of South America's most interesting and cultural cities; Santiago and Buenos Aires
- Exceptional value with flights, land arrangements and your cruise included
Itinerary in Brief
- Day 1: Arrive in Buenos Aires and check-in to your hotel
- Day 2: Buenos Aires - Centro, San Telmo & Boca half day tour. Evening Tango show
- Day 3: Buenos Aires - Recoleta & Palermo half day tour
- Day 4: Buenos Aires free day
- Day 5: Buenos Aires – Ushuaia and embark ship
- Day 6-7: Cross the Drake Passage
- Day 8-11: Exploration of Antarctic Peninsula
- Day 12-14: Return to Ushuaia via the Drake Passage
- Day 15: Tierra del Fuego National Park
- Day 16: Ushuaia - El Calafate
- Day 17: Perito Moreno Glacier
- Day 18: El Calafate - Torres del Paine
- Day 19-20: Torres del Paine National Park
- Day 21: Torres del Paine – Santiago
- Day 22: Exclusive Santiago tour
- Day 23: Valparaiso, Viña del Mar & the Vineyards
- Day 24: Santiago departure
Tailor-made suggestions
- Upgrade your Antarctica cruise cabin to a balcony cabin from AU$2,300pp!
- Upgrade your accommodation in Buenos Aires to a 5 star hotel for only AUD1,050pp!
- Experience the wonders of Chile’s north with a visit to the spectacular Atacama desert
- Add a stopover in the spectacular Lakes District of Chile and Argentina
- Enjoy a cruise through the Chilean Fjords prior to Antarctica
- Extend your trip through to the majestic Iguazu Falls and into Rio de Janeiro
Arrive in Buenos Aires
On arrival at the airport you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel.
Buenos Aires, capital of the Republic of Argentina and the country's largest city, is undeniably one of Latin America's hottest destinations. Located on the shores of the Rio de la Plata, the city's combination of European architecture and the passion of its people – the porteños (people of the port) – work together to create a colourful and dynamic modern city.
San Telmo and La Boca City Tour
This morning's excursion will introduce you to the magic of the Argentine capital. After being picked up from your hotel we start with a visit of 'San Telmo', the oldest barrio (neighbourhood) of Buenos Aires which is famous for its historic architecture, tango parlours and antique shops. We take our time and wander through the cobblestone streets learning about the history of the area and seeing its sights including its impressive old churches and its abundance of colourful street art.
We leave San Telmo and the tour continues past the many architectural highlights of Buenos Aires including the Palace of Justice, the Argentine National Congress building, the 'Cabildo (old town hall) and the presidential palace 'Casa Rosada' (pink house).
Next we visit ‘La Boca', the most picturesque of all neighbourhoods of Buenos Aires. This extravagant zone is completely different to the old and to the modern Buenos Aires and romantic stories tell us that tango was born in this working class area. We wander its famous street “Caminito” where you will have the chance to view the spectacle of impromptu tango dancing, street performers and have the chance to buy some local handicrafts.
On our way back to your hotel we pass through the newly restored Puerto Madero area where you can choose to be dropped off at for a nice meal by the waterfront. The remainder of the afternoon is at your leisure with the chance to visit some of Buenos Aires' many great museums or do some shopping.
Dinner & Tango Show
Tango expresses the heart and spirit of Argentina and no visit to Buenos Aires would be complete without it. This evening you will be picked up from your hotel and taken to La Ventana where you will experience the intimacy of this dance in equally intimate surrounds while you indulge in delicious Argentinean cuisine. At the end of the show you will be taken back to your hotel.
*Before the show you have the option of arriving before the others and taking a short tango lesson with a professional dancer or a wine tasting. This comes at an additional cost but if you would like to book either of these please let your consultant know.
You will be picked up from your hotel and taken back at the end of the tour along other passengers. We suggest to upgrade to a private transfer as the pick ups and drop offs could take a considerable time.
Breakfast and Dinner included.
Recoleta & Palermo City Tour
This morning you will further discover what makes Buenos Aires great as we explore its better known and sophisticated districts; Palermo and Recoleta. We start with a drive through Recoleta with its open green spaces mixed in with elegant boutique shopping, cafés, embassies and impressive architecture. We visit such landmarks as the Pilar Church and Evita Monument before taking a short walk through the Recoleta cemetery where Evita's tomb can be found.
We continue on to Palermo which is Buenos Aires' largest neighbourhood, and also its trendiest. Here you will walk the streets which are full of beautiful parks, hip boutique hotels, chic restaurants and bars, and high fashion stores. Throughout the morning your knowledgeable guide will give you an insight into local life and excellent local cuisine and on completion of the tour you will have the option of being dropped off at an excellent restaurant for lunch or being taken back to your hotel.
* Please note entry to Recoleta Cemetery is an additional cost for foreign visitors. Entry during the tour is optional.
Breakfast included.
Hotel to Hotel Transfer
You will be transferred from your hotel in Buenos Aires to your next hotel in the same city.
Antarctic Peninsula Discovery
This voyage takes you across Drake Passage straight to the frozen Antarctic Peninsula - where you'll discover mesmerizing icy wonders like the Gerlache Strait and exceptionally beautiful Antarctic Sound. Step ashore and get up close and personal with the local penguins for that perfect photo opportunity. Journey alongside polar specialists and share in their vast knowledge of these isolates regions.
Day 1: Buenos Aires
You will be met by a cruise representative on arrival at your hotel in Buenos Aires and updated on the schedule for the following day. The evening is free for you to explore.
Day 2: Fly to Ushuaia and embark
After an early breakfast you will transfer to the airport for your flight to Ushuaia. On arrival you will be transferred to the ship for embarkation.
Nestled in the foothills of the snow-capped Martial Range, Ushuaia’s colourful streets and mismatched buildings cascade from the imposing mountains before coming to an abrupt halt at the shores of the Beagle Channel. As one of the world’s southernmost cities, Ushuaia carries its ‘end of the world’ reputation well. The moody weather and dramatic surroundings certainly help. Board your boutique ship before departing for your journey through one of the most captivating wilderness regions of the world.
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.
Day 3-4: At Sea
Spend your day at sea enjoying your boutique 5-star ship. Treat yourself to a spa day, attend an expert-led onboard lecture or enjoy the ocean views from the deck or the comfort of our Observation Lounge.
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.
Day 5-8: Antarctic Peninsula
Among captivating glaciers, majestic icebergs and snowy islands, the Antarctic Peninsula is where most visitors to the White Continent will live out their Antarctica dream. The Antarctic Peninsula, the most accessible area of the continent, hosts several scientific bases and some of the most interesting wildlife scenery, such as the extremely photogenic Lemaire Channel. Shore excursions might include Petermann Island, where among Adelie penguins, blue-eyed shags and skuas, huge, lumbering elephant seals haul out.
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.
Day 9-10: At Sea
You can spend your day at sea enjoying the many facilities available. Head to the sauna, get in a workout in the state-of-the-art gym or relax in the jacuzzi whilst taking in incredible views along the way. If you prefer to learn a little more about your surroundings, listen to an informative talk or have a chat with one of our knowledgeable on-board experts.
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.
Day 11: Ushuaia
Ushuaia is the gateway to the White Continent. Found at the southernmost tip of South America in Argentinian Patagonia, the city is often described as “the End of the World”. The city’s mountain backdrop rises above the harbour and entrance to the Beagle Channel. The town itself is walkable and has a few small museums as well as pubs, restaurants and cafes - a good place to try Patagonian lamb cooked over open fire pits.
After breakfast you will disembark and transfer to the airport for your flight to Buenos Aires.
Breakfast included.
Arrive in Ushuaia
Upon disembarkation you will be met at the port by our representative and transferred to your hotel.
Breakfast included.
Tierra del Fuego National Park
Leaving Ushuaia city Southwest, we will travel through national route number 3, towards Tierra del Fuego's National Park.
Along the eleven kilometres that separate the entrance of the Park and the city of Ushuaia, we will make a stop near the Centro Hípico (Riding Club), where we will enjoy some excellent panoramic views of the Beagle Channel, Ushuaia`s Peninsula and Bridges`, Willie's and Les Eclauriers' Islands.
After crossing River Pipo's bridge, next to Ushuaia's Golf Club, we will arrive at the End of the World Station. Those passengers that would like to board the End of the World train will be able to take that optional tour. The rest of the group will await them at the end of the train trip.
We continue our drive for 2 more kilometres and enter the National Park, an area reserved to protect the Subantartic Forest and its native flora and fauna.
From this spot we will be able to take a glimpse of both Redonda and Estorbo Islands.
Through a path surrounded by Lenga forests and peats, we will reach Lake Roca, a glaciar lake, with a surface of 5.50 square kilometres, and framed by mountains and forests, where we can likely be able to see different native birds.
We will have around 30 minutes time to be at the services area.
The last part of the excursion leads us to Lapataia Bay. Along the way we will cross Cormorants Islands, get to see other peats and also visit a beaver dam.
Once in Lapataia Bay, besides the marine coast, rich in molluscs and mussels, we will find traces of the ancient native settlers that used to live in the region. We will have some time to walk through the footbridge, from which we will be able to take photographs and enjoy the feeling of being at the end of the world.
From this spot, the end of National Route number 3, we will begin our journey back to the city of Ushuaia.
Duration: 4.5 hrs.
Breakfast included.
Depart Ushuaia
Our representative will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to the airport.
Arrive in El Calafate
On arrival at the airport you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel.
El Calafate, located on Lake Argentino, hooks you with it's irresistible attractions including the magnificent Perito Moreno Glacier and is a great option to access both Los Glaciares and Torres del Paine National Parks.
Breakfast included.
Perito Moreno Glacier incl. Nautical Safari
After breakfast you will be picked up from your hotel for your excursion to the Perito Moreno Glacier, one of the most famous landmarks in South America and one of Patagonia's only advancing glaciers. The glacier is 5 kilometres wide, with an average height of 74 metres above the surface of the water of Lake Argentino and a total ice depth of 170 metres.
You'll go first to the glacier's less frequented north face to marvel at its splendour. You'll observe and hear giant chunks of ice plummet into the waters of Lake Argentino. Your guide will answer questions about the glacier and the park, and then we'll continue on to the footbridges and take a break to enjoy the surroundings. You'll also have the opportunity to do a short nautical safari to observe this magnificent glacier from a closer viewpoint.
After the thrilling encounter with the Perito Moreno, we'll drive back to Calafate where you will spend the evening.
**For those after something a little more adventurous, we can offer a ‘Mini trekking' excursion where you hike into the core of Perito Moreno Glacier and experience its surreal beauty. Let us know if you'd like more details on this excursion.
Breakfast included.
El Calafate hotel to Torres del Paine hotel via Cerro Castillo border
Today you will take the shared transfer from your hotel to the Cerro Castillo border in Chile, where you will change cars and then be transferred to your Patagonian lodge.
Hotel Las Torres Patagonia
Hotel Las Torres Patagonia invites you to an unforgettable experience, in one of the most beautiful and breathtaking locations in the world, the Torres del Paine National Park. Our "all inclusive" packages allow you to experience an untamed Patagonia without any concerns other than feeling the freedom of the pampas and the beauty of the mountains. Leave all the details in our hands. You only have to rest and enjoy our personalised attention once you arrive.
Day 1
Today you will travel from either Punta Arenas, Puerto Natales or El Calafate to the Torres del Paine National Park where you will spend the next few days immersing yourself in the extraordinary natural landscapes of Patagonia.
The remainder of the day is at your leisure to explore the spectacular surroundings of your lodge before enjoying a fine dinner reflecting the Patagonian traditions - a wonderful barbecue of lamb or local fish ceviche.
Lunch and Dinner included.
Day 2-3
During your stay you have many different options of excursions to choose from. You can choose to horseback ride with our experienced gauchos, trek different difficulty level trails, do walks to observe and enjoy flora and fauna with our specialized guides, or choose the comfort of a vehicle excursion through the most attractive places in the park.
Every day our guides will present you the best options of excursions in order to visit each corner of this fascinating National Park and make your journey and unforgettable experience.
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.
Day 4
You will be met at your hotel by one of our representatives and transferred to your hotel in Punta Arenas or onto El Calafate.
Breakfast included.
Arrive in Santiago
On arrival at the airport you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel.
Chile's capital city is surrounded by an extraordinary set of snow-capped Andean mountains to the east and a smaller coastal range to the west. It is truly a beautiful sight. The city offers one of Latin America's most cosmopolitan, vibrant and artistic city centres so your stay here is sure to be an exciting one.
Breakfast included.
Exclusive Santiago Tour
Let us introduce you to the classic city we know and love on this 6 hour tour exploring the city's most popular sights along with some of our personal favourites. Chile´s rich cultural heritage comes to life as we visit the iconic symbols of the city, including La Plaza de Armas (the main square), La Moneda (the government palace), the Santiago Metropolitan Cathedral and the spectacular Cerro Santa Lucia, where the city was founded in 1541.
We continue to the bohemian area of Bellavista and climb the San Cristobal hill for a panoramic view of Santiago with the Andes Mountains in the background. We'll also visit the Orient Sector, the most modern area of the city, with its impressive high rise buildings and classy boulevards before we offer you a choice of the activities designed to enhance your Santiago experience.
You'll be given the option (you can decide on the day) to visit the picturesque Los Dominicos craft market where we can walk through the artisan village and enjoy a tasty empanada at one of the outdoor cafés, discover Santiago's impressive pre-Columbian museum, explore the historic Lastarria Neighbourhood or take a walking tour through the Mercado Central, Chile's largest fresh seafood market where you can try some of the local cuisine on offer. If you'd like to visit all these places then just let us know in advance and we can extend your tour to do this.
On completion of the tour you'll be returned back to your hotel and have free time to further explore the city at your leisure.
* As an alternative to this traditional city tour, we can also offer the city tour as a walking or bike riding tour. Let us know if you'd like more details on these options.
Breakfast included.
Valparaiso, Vina del Mar & the Vineyards
Today we will head over to the coast and explore one of the most fascinating cities in Chile; Valparaiso. ‘Valpo', as it is fondly known by locals, was declared a world heritage site by UNESCO, and it is not difficult to see why. Picturesque architecture and multi-coloured urban housing spread out over more than forty hills, creating one of world's most eclectic, unique cities.
We will visit the downtown area with its new government house, the Plaza Sotomayor, the Plaza Victoria, the cathedral and the harbour area. Afterwards we take a funicular up into the hills where there is a fantastic collection of brightly painted houses and a fantastic view over the city (funicular not included). We enjoy coffee in one of the many cosy restaurants before we enjoy a stroll through the labyrinth of colourful streets lined with impressive street-art. You can also visit the former home of Pablo Neruda (entrance fee not included) and learn a little more about this famous Chilean poet.
From Valparaiso we'll head to the fashionable coastal resort city of Viña del Mar where we can admire the famous city ‘flower clock' and visit the Main Square, which offers an ampitheatre that hosts the Viña del Mar International Song Festival every summer.
We include time for lunch and on the way back to Santiago we will explore the Casablanca valley with its famous orchards, citrus groves, grape plantations and wonderful mountain backdrops. For those interested in tasting some of the local produce a visit to a local vineyard can be arranged (any wine tasting will be paid for locally). We return you back to your hotel in Santiago where you have the evening at your leisure.
Please note: All services are offered as private except the wine tasting in the Casablanca Valley. This tour will be shared with a group of up to 25 people.
Breakfast included.
Depart Santiago
Our representative will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to the airport for your departure flight.
Breakfast included.
Various dates
Season | Type | From | Special Offer |
---|---|---|---|
09 Dec 2024 - 01 Jan 2025 | NZD $27091pp | ||
Tour 09 Dec 2024 - 01 Jan 2025 | NZD $27091pp | Contact us | |
13 Jan 2025 - 05 Feb 2025 | NZD $31572pp | ||
Tour 13 Jan 2025 - 05 Feb 2025 | NZD $31572pp | Contact us | |
22 Feb 2025 - 17 Mar 2025 | NZD $30238pp | ||
Tour 22 Feb 2025 - 17 Mar 2025 | NZD $30238pp | Contact us |
Cruise accommodation is based on the Oceanview D4 cabin aboard SH Vega or SH Diana. Other cabins are also available upon request. Upgrade to a balcony cabin from AU$2,300pp.
Tour 09 Dec 2024 - 01 Jan 2025
Buenos Aires, Argentina - Eurobuilding Hotel
Antarctic Peninsula, Antarctica - SH Diana
Ushuaia, Argentina - Cilene del Faro Suites & Spa
El Calafate, Argentina - Alto Calafate
Torres Del Paine, Chile - Hotel Las Torres
Santiago, Chile - Hotel Cumbres Lastarria
Tour 13 Jan 2025 - 05 Feb 2025
Buenos Aires, Argentina - Eurobuilding Hotel
Antarctic Peninsula, Antarctica - SH Vega
Ushuaia, Argentina - Cilene del Faro Suites & Spa
El Calafate, Argentina - Alto Calafate
Torres Del Paine, Chile - Hotel Las Torres
Santiago, Chile - Hotel Cumbres Lastarria
Tour 22 Feb 2025 - 17 Mar 2025
Buenos Aires, Argentina - Eurobuilding Hotel
Antarctic Peninsula, Antarctica - SH Diana
Ushuaia, Argentina - Cilene del Faro Suites & Spa
El Calafate, Argentina - Alto Calafate
Torres Del Paine, Chile - Hotel Las Torres
Santiago, Chile - Hotel Cumbres Lastarria
Whats included?
- Internal airfares
- Cruise on-board SH Vega or SH Diana on a double/ twin share basis inclusive of shore excursions, all meals, drinks including selected alcoholic beverages, expedition parka and use of rubber boots
- Accommodation with private facilities
- Onboard gratuities and port taxes during your Antarctica cruise
- Transfers
- Entrance fees
- English-speaking guided tours
- Meals as specified
What’s not included?
- International airfares
- Airport entrance/departure taxes/hotel taxes
- Travel insurance
- Optional activities
- Gratuities besides your Antarctica cruise
- Any items not mentioned as included
Notes
- Please note the 9th Dec 2024 and the 22nd Feb 2025 departures includes the SH Diana for your Antarctica Cruise and the 13th Jan 2025 departure will be aboard the SH Vega. The cruise itineraries have the same structure.
- Cruise accommodation is based on the Oceanview D4 cabin aboard SH Vega or SH Diana. Other cabins are also available upon request. Upgrade to a balcony cabin from AU$2,300pp.
- Hotel rates are based on double / twin share lead in rooms. Other room types and hotels are available. Rates are subject to change and different rates may apply during holiday seasons and special events.
- Internal airfare prices are based on your arrival into South America being with LATAM Airlines. Supplements may apply if you arrive with another airline.