Antarctic Voyage with South America and Galápagos Islands

Upon arrival in Guayaquil, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. This evening, enjoy a welcome dinner with your fellow travellers and Tour Director.

This morning, transfer to the MC Hermes where you will meet your guide and settle in to your suite. Later, embark on an excursion to the highlands of Santa Cruz Island. Visit a tortoise ranch and witness the striking Galápagos giant tortoise. The natural surrounding landscape boasts unique volcanic tubes and underground lava channels.

Today, you'll travel to Rábida Island and navigate through trails at a red sand beach. Marvel at scenes of saltwater lagoons, and majestic palo santo trees. Come across wildlife including pelicans and a myriad of birdlife. This afternoon, ascend to the summit of Bartolomé Island and soak in panoramic views of volcanic formations, Pinnacle Rock and other islands in the Galápagos archipelago off in the distance. If you're feeling active, there's an opportunity to experience Pinnacle Rock from a closer perspective by swimming and snorkelling around the perimeter.

Immerse yourself in the diverse flora and fauna of South Plaza, one of the smallest islands of the Galápagos. Walk through a captivating cactus forest and be awed by an abundance of birds such as red-billed tropicbirds and near-endemic swallow-tailed gulls. Witness one of the largest populations of Galápagos land iguanas and sea lions. Afterwards, delve into the wilderness of the rugged northern shore, peppered with giant prickly pear cacti (Opuntia).

Arrive in a quiet cove on San Cristóbal Island and discover Pitt Point, a remarkable location comprised of volcanic tuff substrate and known for its unique species of birds. You may be able to spot three species of boobies and two species of frigatebirds, as well as sea lions sunbathing on the shore. Take the opportunity to snorkel around the island and encounter marine life. Later this afternoon, see Witch Hill's lively coastline and explore on foot. Enjoy a swim and take a short stroll to see impressive flamingos at a freshwater lagoon.

Disembark your ship this morning and visit the Charles Darwin Research Station. Here, learn about the giant tortoise breeding program and observe the gentle giants up close. You’ll also learn about the conservation efforts of scientists, researchers and volunteers to preserve the Galápagos’ ecosystem. This afternoon, you’ll be transferred to Seymour Galápagos Ecological Airport for your flight to Quito. Settle into your hotel in Quito and enjoy the rest of the evening at leisure.

Enjoy a full day exploring the sights of Quito on a guided city tour, which includes Independence Square, Carondelet Presidential Palace, and the Jesuit church of La Compañia de Jesús, a stunning example of Latin American baroque architecture. Cap off the tour at the hill of El Panecillo, the perfect vantage point to enjoy sweeping views of Quito’s cityscape and surrounding volcanoes. You can also observe the impressive statue at the hill’s summit, a replica of Quito’s Madonna. This afternoon, visit the Middle of the World Monument and enjoy the rare chance to stand on the dividing line between the northern and southern hemispheres. Afterwards, savour lunch at a local restaurant.

Today, explore beyond Quito on your chosen sightseeing experience, then choose where to dine this evening.

Freedom of Choice – Otavalo Market Spend a full day exploring Otavalo Market, the largest of its kind in South America. Be dazzled by the sheer volume of handicrafts available, from woven ponchos to carved statues, jewellery and rug baskets, which have been largely made by local Indigenous communities.

Freedom of Choice – Mindo Cloud Forest Spend the day at Mindo Cloud Forest, a haven for bird watchers and waterfall lovers. Explore the walking trails, looking out for hummingbirds, orchids, bromeliads and butterflies.

Freedom of Choice Dining – Somos Savour a three-course meal with included wine pairings at Somos, delighting in the Ecuadorian-born, globally inspired dishes crafted by chef-owner Alejandra Espinoza.

Freedom of Choice Dining – Kriollo por Ikaro Sit down to a five-step tasting menu of gourmet Ecuadorian delights including a delicious beverage.

Transfer to Quito airport for your flight to Lima. Spend some time at leisure before dinner tonight with your fellow travellers.

Discover Lima on a panoramic city tour. Cover the must-see sights, including the World Heritage-listed Historic Centre of Lima, Basilica and Convent of San Agustín and Plaza Mayor. You’ll then be whisked to your Signature Experience at the Larco Museum. The remainder of the afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure.

Signature Experience – Larco Museum

Spend time at the Larco Museum, which is housed within an 18th-century viceroy’s mansion. Here, you’ll enjoy a guided tour of its fascinating Peruvian artefacts before heading to the museum’s bougainvillea-covered gardens for lunch.

Farewell Lima this morning and fly to Cusco, bound for the inspiring landscapes of the Sacred Valley. Stop for lunch at Hacienda Sarapampa, a family owned estate specialising in the production of giant white corn. While you indulge in a decadent, locally sourced three-course lunch, learn about the history of the farm, as well as the behind-the-scenes work that goes into corn production.

Travel to a small community tucked away in the Sacred Valley hillside, where you’ll enjoy a Signature Experience. Continue exploring the Sacred Valley with a guide, including another Signature Experience which takes you to the Salt Mines of Maras and Moray terraces. In the evening, savour a delectable dinner at your hotel. 

Signature Experience – Traditional Weaving Demonstration

Be welcomed by the local Misminay community before watching a traditional weaving demonstration. Discover how Peru’s colourful textiles are created by hand as you learn about the craft, which has been passed down through generations. Then, enjoy a traditional lunch with views of the Andes mountains and surrounding valleys. 

Signature Experience – Salt Mines of Maras and Moray Terraces

See the glistening salt pools spill over the terraced slopes at the World Heritage-listed Salt Mines of Maras. Afterwards, visit the fascinating Incan circular terraces at the Moray archaeological site. 

An unforgettable Signature Experience guides you to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of the vast Inca citadel, Machu Picchu. Spend time at leisure exploring the town’s laneway markets, restaurants and shops before returning to your hotel for dinner this evening.

Signature Experience – Inca Rail First Class Machu Picchu Train

Travel on Inca Rail’s First Class Machu Picchu Train and journey through forested landscapes to the township of Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Enjoy a gourmet Andean-inspired lunch on board while taking in the magnificent views that unfold before you.

This morning, journey to the ruins of the lost city of Machu Picchu and set off on a guided tour of the 15th-century Inca citadel. Recognised as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu stands as an architectural triumph of the Incan empire. Located on a steep ridge and made up of approximately 200 structures, this ancient site exceeds every expectation with its beauty and grandeur. Afterwards, return to Aguas Calientes for lunch before boarding the scenic Vistadome train for the return journey to Cusco. 

A guided walking tour through Cusco takes you to the stunning square in the city’s heart, the Plaza de Armas, as well as the sacred sites of Koricancha and Cusco Cathedral. Later, choose your Freedom of Choice activity before dinner this evening at MAP Café, an iconic and renowned eatery of Cusco set in the courtyard of the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art.

Freedom of Choice – Peruvian Cooking Class

Indulge your senses with a cooking class, discovering traditional Peruvian dishes and ingredients. 

Freedom of Choice – Sacsayhuamán Citadel Visit

Explore the 15th-century dry stone archaeological site at the Incan Sacsayhuamán citadel. 

After breakfast, be transferred to the airport for your flight to Lima. Visit the ruins of Pachacamac, a pre-Columbian citadel built around AD200. Here, discover the numerous ancient pyramids, temples and palaces that make up the complex. Continue to a private hacienda for a Signature Experience, then the rest of the day is yours to spend at leisure. 

Signature Experience – Peruvian Paso Horse Show

Pay a visit to a private hacienda, which showcases the nation’s regional traditions. Sit down to a lunch of traditional South American fare and enjoy a Peruvian Paso horse show. 

Fly to Buenos Aires and head for the Puerto Madero district, where your luxurious hotel awaits.

Enjoy a day at leisure to explore the cosmopolitan city of Buenos Aires before gathering with your fellow travellers for a special reception this evening.

This morning, delve deeper into Buenos Aires’ sights on a city tour. Discover the must-visit destinations, including Recoleta Cemetery, the colourful streets of La Boca, and the trendy neighbourhood of Palermo. This evening, meet for a ship briefing in anticipation of our exciting cruise ahead.

Board your included exclusive APT flight to Ushuaia and join a guided tour of Tierra del Fuego. After a light lunch, board your ultra-luxury expedition ship, Seabourn Venture, to begin your 10-night Antarctic Peninsula cruise. Be greeted by your Expedition Leader and a team of expert naturalist guides. Settle in before enjoying a captain’s welcome dinner. Afterwards, head to the deck to take in the stunning scenery of the Beagle Channel.

Signature Experience – Tierra del Fuego National Park Tour

Take a tour of Tierra del Fuego National Park, where you can experience the rugged natural beauty of Argentina’s southern tip. If you’re lucky, you may spot a roaming guanaco (a close relative of the llama).

Sail across the Drake Passage, the cruising gateway to Antarctica. Learn about the adventures ahead during informative, interactive and entertaining presentations on the wildlife, history and geology of Antarctica, delivered by your expert Expedition Team.

On arrival in Antarctica, your itinerary exploring this magical world of ice and water becomes flexible. Your Captain will chart a course based on the most exciting sights and the most favourable ice and weather conditions. Each day on your cruise you’ll enjoy Zodiac excursions. Visit penguin rookeries, seal colonies and keep an eye out for orca, humpback and minke whales that frequent these waters. Head to Deception Island, an active volcano once home to a whaling station. You may also have the opportunity to stop at the Port Lockroy scientific base. From here, you can send a postcard with a rare Antarctic stamp.

Signature Experience – Zodiac Expeditions

Delight in a unique itinerary which allows you to maximise your discovery of the enchanting Antarctic Peninsula, from thrilling Zodiac expeditions to enthralling shore landings.  

Return to South America across the Drake Passage. Enjoy time on board and continue wildlife spotting.

Today, disembark your ship in Ushuaia and fly to Buenos Aires on your included exclusive APT flight, then be transferred to your hotel.

The choice is yours today with a selection of activities on offer. This evening, for your special dinner, attend a fiery tango show and enjoy a delicious meal during the performance.

Freedom of Choice – Tigre and Paraná River Cruise

Head to the island town of Tigre and enjoy a cruise over the rivers and canals of the Paraná Delta.

Freedom of Choice – City Walking Tour

Discover the Parisian character of Buenos Aires, visiting the Plaza San Martin, Plazoleta Pellegrini and more.

Freedom of Choice – Teatro Colón Tour

Immerse yourself in Buenos Aires’ sophisticated high-arts scene on a fascinating tour of the iconic and majestic Teatro Colón, considered the one of world’s leading opera houses thanks to its impeccable acoustics. 

Fly to the Argentine side of Iguazú Falls, where your luxurious accommodation awaits. Set out on a guided tour of the Falls, riding the Rainforest Ecological Train to a series of walkways and viewing points to admire the striking natural wonder including the 80-metre-high Devil’s Throat. Later, return to your hotel for dinner.

Signature Experience – Gran Meliá Iguazú

Stay close to Iguazú Falls at the Gran Meliá Iguazú, the only hotel within Argentina's Iguazú National Park.

Begin your day enjoying panoramic views on the Brazilian side of the Falls with a leisurely walk between each of the viewing platforms. Spanning an area 2.7 kilometres wide, Iguazú Falls is made up of roughly 275 incredible waterfalls waiting to be explored. Later, get up close to the Falls on your Freedom of Choice activity. This afternoon, enjoy a delectable Signature Experience at your hotel.

Signature Experience – Wine Tasting

At Gran Meliá Iguazú, enjoy a sommelier-led wine tasting, sampling wines from different Argentine regions alongside delicious cheese pairings.

Freedom of Choice – Jet Boat Ride

Get up close to the roaring cascades of Iguazú Falls on a thrilling jet boat safari. 

Freedom of Choice – Helicopter Ride

Experience the stunning panoramas of Iguazú Falls from the air during a thrilling scenic helicopter ride. 

This morning, make your way to Parque das Aves (Bird Park). The park spans five hectares and is home to over 800 species of birds including flamingos, toucans and parakeets – just to name a few. Later, fly to Rio de Janeiro. On arrival, you’ll be transferred to your luxurious hotel located on the famous Copacabana Beach.

Today, travel to Corcovado mountain to see the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue. As you visit one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, look out to stunning views across the city. For lunch, delight in a mouthwatering meal of Brazil’s renowned barbecue fare. Later as the sun sets, ride a cable car to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain for panoramic views of this spectacular city.

This morning, enjoy your selected sightseeing activity in the vibrant city of Rio de Janeiro. Tonight, indulge in a farewell dinner.

Freedom of Choice – Santa Teresa Jeep Tour

Discover the beauty of Tijuca National Park, skirting the city as you explore by open-top jeep on an exhilarating adventure.

Freedom of Choice – Guanabara Bay Cruise

Navigate your way through the tranquil waters of Guanabara Bay as you embark on a half-day boat tour of Rio de Janeiro’s beautiful coastline. 

Your adventure comes to an end today following breakfast with a transfer to the airport for your onward flight.