31 Day Inspiring South America & Antarctica Exploration Cruise
This tour is fully escorted by a dedicated tour leader who will accompany you throughout the tour. If your tour includes multiple countries, you will be met by a new tour leader in each country and any internal flights included will be unescorted.
This tour is categorised as 3 out of 5
Balanced exploration with walking tours: Our most popular style, this tour offers a good mix of planned activities and free time. Expect moderate daily walking tours, so pack comfortable shoes.
As a general requirement across all of our trips, you may be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off transportation, handle your own luggage, and participate in all scheduled sightseeing that may be conducted on uneven ground and terrain. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability and where required, supporting documentation may be requested to ensure that we are comfortable that you will enjoy your trip.
For the true explorer, expedition small-ship cruising is the best way to get off the beaten track.This experience is not just about the ship’s creature comforts but very much the destination, its nature and wildlife. Daily shore excursions by Zodiac inflatable boats allow you to step onshore and explore. A world-class, expert expedition team will help you discover each exciting destination. Onboard you’ll enjoy informative and educational lectures. These trips will be a mix of fully guided or self-guided depending on your chosen package. There’s a land touring component with shared sightseeing and transfers.
✓ 10-night cruise of Antarctica and the Drake Passage aboard the premium scandi-design Hurtigruten Expeditions MS Fridtjof Nansen or MS Roald Amundsen with included expedition lead landings in custom built expedition equipment, expedition boats for safe landings in remote areas
✓ In-depth lectures and discussions hosted by experts on the Expedition Team on the cruise, full use of the ship Science Center and access to the Citizen Science programme where you can assist with ongoing scientific research
✓ Small, intimate group experience – no more than 20 people
✓ Two days exploring Peru’s Amazon Jungle
✓ 30 nights accommodation, including 10 night Antarctica cruise and 2 nights at a eco-friendly Peruvian Amazon lodge
✓ Breakfast daily, 13 lunches and 12 dinners
✓ All internal flights, coach, rail and boat transportation
✓ Fully escorted by English-speaking guides (excluding on internal flights)
✓ Sightseeing including entry fees as per itinerary
✈ Needing international airfares to accompany your Inspiring Vacation? You will be able to access our flight portal after securing your package to add international airfares to your booking.
Setting sail on a thrilling 10-night Antarctica cruise aboard the premium Hurtigruten ships is a bucket list experience. Custom landings and expert-led lectures will provide memories to come, as will the breathtaking icy landscapes. Afterward, uncover South America’s wonders: Machu Picchu, the Amazon, Iguazu Falls, Buenos Aires, and Rio de Janeiro.
Welcome to Argentina! On arrival at Buenos Aires airport, make your own way to your hotel located in the heart of the city.
The rest of today is at leisure to discover Argentina’s cultural heart on your own.
Special Information
Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal offers the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.
This morning you will be transferred to the airport to take an early flight to Ushuaia. On arrival you will be collected and transferred to board your deluxe eco-friendly expedition ship, the MS Fridtjof Nansen.
Ushuaia, a lively harbour town, serves as the capital of Argentina's Tierra del Fuego Province. Nestled against the stunning Martial Glacier, Ushuaia competes for the distinction of being the world's southernmost city.
Following an informative session led by your Expedition Team, settle into your cabin and familiarise yourself with the ship.
Tonight, we kick off our journey with a welcome dinner.
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours.
Your included flight allows one checked bag up to 15kg (33lbs), and one 7kg (15 lbs) carry-on, with options to increase your luggage allowance at the airport if needed.
Your flight documentation and details will be provided locally in Buenos Aires as this is a charter flight service.
Prepare yourself for Antarctica as we cross the infamous Drake Passage, and trust us – it will take your breath away! During the two-day journey across the Drake Passage, the Expedition Team will provide you with all the necessary resources to maximise your polar expedition experience.
Explore the onboard Science Center to gain insights into what lies ahead. Engage with passionate experts who will discuss Antarctica's history, the scientific discoveries beneath the ice, and the consequences of climate change and plastic pollution. You'll receive guidance on how to ensure your visit is both safe and environmentally responsible, and you'll also learn about the Citizen Science initiatives you can participate in.
You'll have ample opportunities to unwind, so take advantage of the spa and wellness facilities, savour delectable cuisine, and socialise with fellow travellers at the Explorer Lounge & Bar.
Today is another day at sea as your ship makes its way to the Antarctic Peninsula. Relax and enjoy your ship’s facilities, or join one of the lectures conducted throughout the day.
Welcome to one of the most remote areas on Earth!
There have been spectacular photo opportunities so far, but Antarctica is in an entirely different category. Go ashore by Zodiac boat to explore the breathtaking Antarctic scenery and get close to penguins and seals. You will feel like a real explorer from the moment you set foot on the endless expanse of snow and ice and from the deck there will be ample opportunities to see whales.
Over the next six days, we’ll be making various landings in different locations throughout the peninsula. Enjoy close encounters with wildlife and glaciers, and visit old whaling stations and its relics. Trust us when we say that every second of this journey has something new to offer. You'll join the Expedition Team on landings and ice-cruises, and may even get a chance to go kayaking among the icebergs.
Whales begin to arrive in greater numbers by December and January. This is also when the first penguin chicks hatch and seeing the clumsy clumps of feathers run around is always a charming sight. February and March offer peak whale-watching opportunities, when large amounts of krill lure them to the area.
One of the highlights of the South Shetlands is Deception Island. When we sail into the natural harbor of this volcanic island, you will see an abandoned whaling station known as Hektor and a derelict British base.
Over the course of the next few days, we’ll also visit Wilhelmina Bay, Paradise Harbor, and other remote locations. Join gatherings where the various members of the expedition team recount the day’s activities, make presentations, and discuss the next day’s plan. These gatherings are great opportunities to share experiences and mingle with your fellow explorers.
Another day in Antarctic waters learning about the natural flora and fauna, joining Zodiac landings and various activities (weather depending).
Another day in Antarctic waters learning about the natural flora and fauna, joining Zodiac landings and joining various activities (weather depending).
Another day in Antarctic waters learning about the natural flora and fauna, joining Zodiac landings and joining various activities (weather depending).
Another day in Antarctic waters learning about the natural flora and fauna, joining Zodiac landings and joining various activities (weather depending).
After five incredible days, we set course back to civilization. Spend the day at sea recapping your experiences with fellow explorers, or just relaxing on deck. The next couple of days will be a chance to reflect on your adventure to the seventh continent.
Today is another day at sea as your ship makes its way back to South America. Relax and enjoy your ship's facilities, or join one of the lectures conducted throughout the day.
Sadly, every adventure must come to an end. It is time to say goodbye to the crew and all your new friends when we reach Ushuaia. We will transfer you to the airport for your flight back to Buenos Aires. On arrival at the airport you will be met and transferred to your hotel.
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 6.5 hours.
Experience the sensual dance of tango in a romantic and intimate atmosphere. Querandi El Tango is a Tango Center in an intimate setting, which is very distinctive from its
counterparts. The building dates from 1867 and was classified as a "living testimony to the memory of the city" by the city of Buenos Aires. International cuisine, regional dishes, desserts and a selection of Argentine wines will be offered followed by the performance of Tango and traditional music.
Meeting Point: Hotel Reception
How to get there: Your tour leader will escort you to the venue and back, just a 5 minute walk from your hotel
Includes: 3 course a la carte dinner, drinks (beer, wine & soft drinks)
Start Time: Doors open at 8.00pm, show commences at 10.15pm
End Time: Approximately 11.30pm
Today is at leisure to explore this incredible city on your own. Home to a proud and diverse community of porteños, or ‘people of the port’, this city is a sensuous fusion of faded European splendour and Latin American panache. There are plenty of places to explore, including many parrillas serving authentic Argentine steak.
Alternatively you may wish to join one of the optional tours available today.
A unique visit to the cradle of Argentinian tradition. Live an unforgettable experience at a classic estancia that still keeps its Argentinian creole architectural style intact. You will be transferred from your hotel to the countryside for a full day on a traditional Argentinian ranch where you will get an understanding of local folklore and tradition. You will travel in time, enjoying creole exhibitions, customs, abilities and skills followed by an Argentinian BBQ lunch.
Meeting Point: Hotel
Includes: Transfers, ranch experience, lunch
Start Time: 9:00am
End Time: 6:00pm
In the morning, meet your local tour guide at approximately 8am for a welcome meeting and a briefing on the trip ahead. This meeting will be followed by a city tour of Buenos Aires before transferring to the airport for your flight to Iguazu.
During the city tour we’ll head to Plaza de Mayo (Main Square) and see the pink-hued Casa Rosada (Government Palace) – this is, of course, where Juan and Eva Perón delivered famous speeches from the balconies. See Metropolitan Cathedral and City Hall followed by some free time for lunch (not included). Learn more about Argentina’s passion – fútbol (football) – by visiting vibrant La Boca. We’ll pass by La Bombonera, the iconic stadium of the Boca Juniors, and see Puerto Madero on the waterfront, the most modern neighbourhood of the city. We’ll finish with a visit to the upscale Recoleta neighbourhood, with its elegant buildings and the most exclusive pocket of the city, Alvear Avenue.
The flight to Puerto Iguazu is approximately 1.5hrs long. On arrival you will be transferred across to the Brazil side of the falls for your accommodation.
The Iguazu Falls are located where the Iguazu River cascades over the edge of the Paraná Plateau, created by an enormous volcanic eruption more than 130 million years ago. Straddling the Argentine-Brazil border, the falls are made up of up to 275 individual waterfalls, lining a 2.7km-wide horseshoe-shaped gorge. It’s a truly breathtaking sight to see the unyielding force of nature in such a magnificent setting.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
Your included flight allows one checked bag up to 15kg (33 lbs), and one 7kg (15 lbs) carry-on, with options to increase your luggage allowance at the airport if needed. Your flight will be unescorted, however your tour guide will assist you on either end to ensure that your journey is trouble free.
If you require a Brazil visa, please ensure it allows for multiple entry as you will cross the border twice during your time in Iguazu.
On your departure from Buenos Aires you will say goodbye to your tour guide, and your group will be met by a local guide in Iguazu, who will meet and greet you, coordinate your activities in town and be reachable to assist you as needed. Local guides, frequently native to the area, lead tours at specific sites or attractions, offering a deeper understanding of the local history, art, or way of life.
These spectacular falls can be viewed from both sides; the Brazilian side offers a broader, panoramic view, and the Argentinian side offers a series of catwalks th