Immerse yourself in the vast wilderness and spectacular and dramatic wonders of the icy continent of Antarctica. After you explore Chilean Patagonia, fly over the Drake Passage to board your comfortable expedition ship in the South Shetland Islands. From there, cruise farther south past glittering icebergs and white mountains, accompanied by whales, seals, penguins and the famed wandering albatross on your unforgettable journey to Antarctica.

Itinerary

Day 1 Arrive Santiago / Temuco / Huilo Huilo Reserve – Upon arrival in Santiago, fly to Temuco where you will be met and taken to the incredible Huilo Huilo Reserve. This afternoon, enjoy a guided walk along the Fuy River.

Day 2 Huilo Huilo Reserve – Discover the unique culture and traditions of the local Mapuche people. Paddle the clear waters of the northern bank of Lake Pirehueico aboard a kayak. Ascend into the canopy for a thrilling zip-line adventure. Then cross the lake to indulge yourself in relaxing thermal waters.

Day 3 To Puerto Varas – Head south to Puerto Varas, stopping to explore a few small villages that are home to historic churches, beautiful gardens and a museum that highlights the history of the area’s first settlers. Continue along the shores of Chile’s largest lake until you reach Puerto Varas.

Day 4 Lake District – Embark upon a boat trip to the island of Peulla in Todos los Santos Lake. If the weather is fair, admire the snow-capped Osorno volcano. Enjoy some time to soak up the atmosphere on the island before returning to Puerto Varas this afternoon.

Day 5 To Punta Arenas – his morning, head to Puerto Montt airport for your flight to Punta Arenas, located in Chile’s far south on the Strait of Magellan. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and receive a briefing from expedition staff about the ship’s protocols, the guidelines for travel in Antarctica and the best ways to embark and disembark the Zodiacs, which will take you on daily expeditions. This evening, savor a delicious traditional Patagonian dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 6 to King George Island – Fly over the waters of the Drake Passage on your way to one of the most remote places on earth, the coldest, highest, windiest, driest, and most inhospitable continent – Antarctica. Upon arrival in the South Shetland Islands, explore the area where the Chilean and Russian naval bases are located. Then head to the beach at Fildes Bay to board a Zodiac for the journey to your expedition ship, which is anchored in the harbor.

Day 7 – 10 Antarctica – While cruising between the South Shetland Islands and the western coast of the Antarctic Peninsula, sail along ice-filled fjords and between spectacular icebergs. Along the way, relish the company of sea birds, penguins, seals and whales. On your journey south, visit some of the most magnificent spots in the white continent, including Livingston Island with its stunning, icy landscapes; Port Lockroy, which provides a fascinating peek into the life on an Antarctic base in the 1950s; Petermann Island, a great spot for iceberg and whale spotting; Paradise Bay, which offers a rare opportunity for a mainland landing; Cuverville Island, home to the largest known colony of Gentoo penguins in the Antarctic Peninsula; and Deception Island, where you can visit an abandoned whaling station and a derelict British base. If conditions permit, sail through the iceberg-filled Lemaire Channel at 65° south. Enjoy several daily landings and Zodiac cruises, lectures by experts in Antarctica and delicious meals.

Disclaimer

• Actual prices may differ based on your exact travel dates and customization of your itinerary. All itineraries and prices are subject to availability.
• The above prices are subject to availability of flights and hotel accommodation and services at the time of processing the reservation.
• The quote is based on the above hotels and any change will impact the cost. Long week-ends & school holidays in SA may attract a supplement.
• The check-in time is 1430 hrs and check out time is 1030 hrs. Early check-in or a late checkout is not guaranteed and is only on request.
• Full day vehicle is 8-9 hrs and half – day is 4-5 hrs. On the Garden Route the vehicle is available for 10-12 hrs. Any extra hours required may not be allowed and is purely on request and will be charged for.
• The drivers/guides may not stay in the same hotel as the clients. It is customary to pay 10% gratuity (tips) both to the driver and the guide to ensure a more pleasurable services.
• Any unutilized entrances/sightseeing is non-refundable.
• The prices are net with all bank charges to your account.
• Any cash payments made will attract 2% handling/cash deposit fees. All Master/Visa credit cards will attract 4% and American Express cards 5.75% handling fees.
• We must receive the above net quoted amounts in our bank, whether the amount transferred is in Dollar or Rand.
• Cancellations 30-day prior to the client’s arrival is subject to a cancellation fee. 30% advance required at the time of booking and balance of full payment required 35 days prior to arrival.