- Buenos Aires
- Ushuaia
- 18-day luxury Antarctica Cruise
- Buenos Aires
A complete Antarctica voyage that takes in the fascinating Falkands, the wildlife-filled South Georgia Island and the glittering Antarctic Peninsula.
Personalised journeys from start to finish
Every trip helps support Conservation
Every detail taken care of
What's included
- Completely private tours in Buenos Aires and Ushuaia
- Luxury Antarctica cruise
- Luxury accommodation throughout
- Meet and greet airport service
- Full support from your Travel Concierge before, during and after your trip
At a glance
Your legendary journey begins in Buenos Aires before you set off from Ushuaia on the voyage of a lifetime. Lasting for up to 18 days, a luxury cruise through the icy waters of the Antarctic will bring you to some of the most remote and spectacular islands known to man.
The Falkland Archipelago is your first port of call where you’ll experience the island group’s unique and fascinating fusion of traditional British and South American culture. Next up is South Georgia Island, a dramatic landscape of ice and rock hewn by glaciers. Desolate but far from empty, South Georgia hosts more wildlife than even the Galapagos Islands and is inhabited by some of the world’s largest penguin and seal colonies. It’s also where the great explorer Shackleton’s final resting place can be found.
We then sail on to the Antarctic Peninsula to discover dazzling ice formations and extraordinary natural sights. You’ll meet penguins, huge albatrosses, dolphins, whales and seals all along with way with exciting expeditions by specialist guides.
We return to Buenos Aires via Ushuaia to heat up with tours of the sizzling city and a captivating Tango show.
Example trip itinerary
Buenos Aires
Transfer
Private transfer to your hotel in Buenos Aires (from international airport)
Enjoy your evening in this lively, sultry city. You'll have our list of recommendations as well as private guides on hand to enjoy the best of your stay.
Accommodation in Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires
Highlights
- 88 rooms and suites filled with eye-catching touches
- Seasonal Argentinian dishes at Bistro Sur
- Vibrant Rojo Tango shows at El Cabaret
- Stunning views over the Ecological Reserve and the quaysides of Puerto Madero
Overview
The Faena Buenos Aires is a striking design hotel in the waterside neighborhood of Puerto Madero, the brainchild of local empresario Alan Faena and designer Philippe Starck.
The hotel is located in the restored El Porteño building, an enormous silo built in 1902 that produced grain for post-war Europe. The décor encapsulates the grandeur of the belle époque that characterised Buenos Aires at the turn of last century. A red, black and white colour scheme runs through the hotel teamed with exposed brick walls and concrete pillars that hark back to its industrious past.
Rooms and suites are filled with eye catching touches such as hand embroidered throws and filigree mirrors and feature huge windows which look out over Ecological Reserve, the parks, Río de la Plata and the quaysides of Puerto Madero.
Eating and drinking at the Faena is a real treat. Enjoy fine dining at Bistro Sur where the menu is inspired by the finest seasonal Argentinian produce, or opt for something more casual at El Mercado which is inspired by the country’s famous cantinas and the open air markets of Europe. The Library Lounge is an intimate space filled with antique books and crysal chandeliers, while El Cabaret, inspired by the city’s 1920s tango clubs, is where you can catch the award-winning show, Rojo Tango.
The hotel also features a spa, fitness centre and an outdoor pool.
→ Find out moreBuenos Aires
Highlights
- Chic, well-appointed rooms and suites offering you a quiet space to relax
- Argentina's finest meats and seafood served at Elena
- Refined and sophisticated communal areas
Overview
Located in the prestigious Recoleta neighborhood, the Four Seasons Hotel Buenos Aires seamlessly blends an early-20th-century mansion with a modern high-rise, offering a fusion of contemporary comfort and European-style elegance. Throughout the hotel, from the lavishly decorated rooms to the refined communal areas, there is a distinct sense of luxury and sophistication.
The chic, well-appointed guest rooms ensure the utmost in comfort and privacy, providing a serene space for you to relax and recharge. Perfect for family vacations, the spacious suites offer you ample room, featuring separate areas for sleeping and living to enhance your stay while you’re not out exploring the city and surrounds.
At Michelin-selected Elena, a two-story restaurant inspired by the historic homes of San Telmo, the focus is on dry-aged meats, brasserie fare and charcuterie. Savor some of Argentina’s finest meats and seafood, paired with an exceptional selection of regional wines. Meanwhile, at Nuestro Secreto, outdoor barbecues offer a unique dining experience, turning Buenos Aires’ traditional asado into a social event centered on top-tier grilled meats. End your evening at the equestrian-themed Pony Line bar, where creative cocktails, gourmet burgers and live DJs create a vibrant atmosphere.
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Buenos Aires
Overview
The Alvear Palace Hotel opened its doors in 1932 and has remained one of the city’s most iconic hotels ever since. Located in the exclusive Recoleta neighbourhood, everything about the Alvear is incredibly well thought through with lots of little touches that make it a really special place to stay.
The hotel’s 192 rooms and suites are impeccable designed with a mix of Empire, Louis XV and Louis XVI styles. Sumptuous fabrics and elegant furnishing are complimented by decorative arts and paintings by Argentinian artists. The larger lounge suites offer butler service so you can make the most of your stay.
Enjoy sophisticated French cuisine at La Bourgogne, and a decadent afternoon tea in L’Orangerie before sampling an expertly mixed cocktail at the lobby bar, which has long been a meeting place for well-known members of Buenos Aires society. Enjoying a tipple at the rooftop bar is also not to be missed, with its spectacular views over Alvear Avenue.
When you’re not out exploring all that the Argentinean capital has to offer, relax and unwind in the spa, wellness area, fitness centre and rooftop pool with adjoining pool bar.
→ Find out moreBuenos Aires
Overview
Located in the heart of the French heritage district of Recoleta in a restored belle epoque mansion, the Park Hyatt is a luxury hotel that offers the perfect base from which to explore this vibrant city.
There are 165 elegant rooms and suites, featuring all the modern luxuries that one would expect from a hotel of this ilk as well as period flourishes and detail in keeping with the history of the building. Buenos Aires is a city known for its gastronomy and the offerings at the hotel do not disappoint. Enjoy Argentinian cuisine at Duhau Restaurante and Vinoteca – where there are 7,000 bottles of Argentinian wine to choose from, or Italian at Gioia Restaurante and Terrazas. Satisfy your sweet tooth with afternoon tea at Los Salones del Piano Nobile, then end the day at The Oak Bar with its wood burning fireplace and garden views.
When you’re not out exploring the city, unwind at the Ahin Spa. Ahin in local dialect signifies a welcoming ceremony for an honoured visitor and guests visiting the spa are sure to appreciate the warm welcome. There is also a fitness centre and heated indoor swimming pool as well as a lovely garden in which to relax.
→ Find out moreBuenos Aires
Overview
Set in the fashionable and leafy district of Palermo, Legado Mitico is a beautiful boutique hotel within easy reach of the city’s main attractions and restaurants.
Located in a refurbished three-storey townhouse, the hotel draws on the rich historical culture of Argentina. There are 11 rooms each inspired by a famous figure such as tango dancer Carlos Gardel, writer Jorge Luis Borges, and Evita. A warm colour scheme runs throughout the rooms and wooden floors and period antique pieces give them lots of traditional charm.
The cultural theme extends into the communal areas with a small library in the lounge where the more inquisitive guest can read all about the historic figures that inspire the decoration of the room. The library opens out onto a small patio where guests can relax with a drink.
→ Find out moreBuenos Aires
Overview
Nuss Hotel is located in a converted convent in the lively are of Palermo, next to the colourful Plaza Serrano. The surrounding streets are lined with boutique shops, excellent restaurants and art galleries.
There are 22 bright rooms with city views – some of the deluxe rooms have their own small balconies. Guests can enjoy afternoon tea, drinks and tapas at Deli Lobby Lounge.
Facilities also include a spa area with gym, sauna and massage room and a very pleasant terrace with a small pool.
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Transfer
Private transfer to Buenos Aires Domestic Airport
Flight
Flight from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia
Ushuaia
Transfer
Private transfer from Ushuaia airport to your hotel
Accommodation in Ushuaia
Ushuaia
Highlights
- 117 modern rooms and 14 suites with panoramic views
- Built according to sustainable architectural standards
- A spa and pool to unwind in after a day spent exploring
- Argentine and international flavours at La Cravia Restaurant
Overview
Hotel Arakur is situated in the middle of this extraordinary environment inside the Reserva Natural Cerro Alarkén, just a few minutes from downtown Ushuaia, perched on an outcrop above the town. A stay here is all about breathtaking views of the stunning natural surroundings, while enjoying the luxurious amenities.
Sustainable stays in the Patagonian wilderness
The five-star hotel, built according to sustainable architectural standards, offers fascinating views of the Beagle Channel. 117 modern rooms and fourteen luxurious suites enjoy large panoramic views: to the south, the Beagle Channel and Ushuaia city; to the north, valleys, mountains and the Natural Reserve. Look out for Mounts Cortes, Olivia, and Cinco Hermanos from parts of the hotel.
Geothermal air-conditioning and humidity controls ensure a comfortable temperature when the weather outside is changeable, and furnishings feature local materials, with an interior made of stone, wood and marble transforms the landscape inside the hotel. The hotel also offers a wonderful spa and pool that makes the most of the views.
Dining at Arakur Ushuaia Resort & Spa
When it comes to dining, Arakur’s haute cuisine shines just as bright as the unparalleled vistas out over the bay, city and the Vinciguerra Glacier. Take a table at La Cravia Restaurant and indulge in dishes inspired by typical Tierra del Fuego flavours. The menu here boasts a selection of Argentine and international meals, as well as a buffet. Some of the highlights include Argentine barbecue, spider crab, lamb and black hake.
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You have an action-packed day of exploring today. Your private local guide will pick you up in the morning to first of all take a boat trip across the famous Beagle Channel, following in the (watery) footsteps of Charles Darwin on his expedition. Next you’ll board the Austral Fuegino (also known as the train at the end of the world); a historic, narrow gauge steam train that will take you along a scenic route into the Lapataia National Park. Here you will explore further before heading back to your hotel in Ushuaia.
Board the comfortable and speedy catamaran at the pier in the downtown area of Ushuaia which moves off along the Beagle Channel. The town is rapidly left behind and appears, map-like, spread out on the lower slopes of the mountain that rises behind it, topped by the Martial Glacier. The catamaran glides along the channel, out of the Bay of Ushuaia, past the estancias originally belonging to the first settlers, set like miniatures against the towering grey mountain ranges. Pass the historic lighthouse Les Eclaireurs, the inspiration for Jules Verne’s novel 'The Lighthouse' at the End of the World, lying on a rocky promontory which stretches into the choppy waves. On the way back to Ushuaia, the catamaran passes small islands of rock rising from the wind-tossed waters, home to noisy communities of seals, sea lions, cormorants, giant petrels and many other species of sea-birds.
One of the two narrow-gauge tracks left in Argentina, the Ferrocarril Austral Fueguino used to ferry prisoners from the island’s prison stronghold into the National Park to fell and chop trees. The “Trencito de los Presos” (the Little train of the Prisoners) departs from the Fueguino railway station with the stationmaster’s shrill whistle and steams slowly along the Pipo river until it reaches the Macarena waterfalls. A native Indian camp can be viewed at this point, recreated on the basis of evidence provided by today’s descendants of the tribes as well as documentation left by the early settlers. The train continues into the Lapataia National Park with its stunning views of Monte Susana, the Martial Glacier and the large swamp where the relics of the prisoners’ logging tasks can still be seen.
Transfer
Transfer from your Ushuaia hotel to your cruise ship
18-day luxury Antarctica Cruise
Spend your time exploring the magnificent waters of Antarctica on your choice of Jacada's selected luxury expedition cruises. The exact itinerary and cruise length will depend on which you choose and our Travel Designers will help you decide which suits you best. Extended Antarctica cruises usually last for around 22 days. Setting off from Ushuaia, you'll journey first to the remote and hilly Falkland Islands. Next up is South Georgia Islands, a dramatic landscape of ice and rock that's brimming with wildlife and where Shackleton's final resting place can be found. A few days on the Weddell Sea will bring you to the glittering Antarctic Peninsula, composed of a 500 mile long mountain chain and numerous off-lying islands and offering some of the most dramatic scenery and the biggest variety of wildlife in Antarctica. Finally, you'll cross the Drake Passage, returning to Ushuaia to disembark. Your journey will bring you into contact with penguins, seals, whales and dazzling icebergs in one of the world’s most pristine natural environments. There's an abundance of exhilarating activities to enjoy during your cruise such as diving, swimming, hiking, snowshoeing, kayaking, Zodiac expeditions and lectures and talks from experts both on board and on visits to research stations. The opportunity for photography is outstanding. Below is an example of some of the sights you will see aboard your cruise. Please speak to a Travel designer for full details.
Divided by the Falkland Sound strait, the Falkland archipelago is composed of two island groups, the West and East Islands. Hilly and tree-less, the islands are frequented by marine mammals such as the southern elephant seal and the South American fur seal. On the west side, you'll encounter breeding Magellanic and Gentoo penguins, numerous waders and passerine birds on Carcass Island. On Saunders Island, you'll meet the majestic Black-browed albatross and watch their sometimes-clumsy landings, breeding Imperial shags and Rock hopper penguins. East Falkland is where you'll find the capital Port Stanley and will experience Falkland culture, a wonderful mixture of South American characteristics and Victorian charm with colourful houses, well-tended gardens and English style pubs. In Stanley and the surrounding area, you can see a number of stranded clippers from a century ago bearing witness to the hardships of sailors in the 19th Century. The small, but very interesting museum is well worth a visit featuring an exhibition covering the early days of settlement up to the Falklands War of 1982. Of the smaller Falkland Islands, New Island is a wildlife and nature reserve where you can hike into the rocky cliffs to a rookery where Rockhopper Penguins and Blue-eyed Shags nest. You can also watch for Peale’s dolphins and the distinctive black and white Commerson’s dolphin on the approach to West Point Island. Once ashore, walk on rolling moorland and learn about the island’s unique vegetation including the rare Felton plant.
With a wild and dramatic scenery formed by snowcapped mountains and huge glaciers, South Georgia Island is one of the wildest and most remote places on earth. As you sail up the rugged Drygalski Fjord on the island's far east side, you'll see how ice and rock dominate the landscape. This island is far from desolate however. It's also known as the 'Galapagos of the South' because of the huge numbers of penguins and seals that breed here. You'll want to have your camera ready for outstanding wildlife photo opportunities. Exciting activities on South Georgia can include retracing sections of the historic Shackleton route by ski; visits to Prion Island to see Wandering Albatross chicks (season dependant); excursions to see penguin colonies and Southern Elephant seals at Salisbury Plain, St Andrews Bay and Gold Harbour; trips to the abandoned whaling stations of Stromness and Grytviken; stunning hikes at Godthul; and a visit to Shackleton's grave.
Sailing the Weddell Sea, you'll experience true silence and an extraordinary and haunting atmosphere of unparalleled serenity. Discover the fur seals, penguin colonies, albatross and giant petrels that inhabit these waters. The lord of the manor, also known as the Weddell seal, can remain underwater for over an hour and dive more than 600 meters deep. Its coat is dark gray and his belly is dotted with dark spots. Watch as giant icebergs and icecaps carve a unique landscape.
On reaching the small island of Goudier, we will head for Port Lockroy which was discovered by the French explorer Jean-Baptiste Charcot in 1903. Originally a base for whaling boats, Port Lockroy became a British base in 1944. Here you'll find a small museum detailing life on the base in the 1950s and research on Papua penguins. The port is the most visited place of the White Continent and is also the only port with a post office where you can send letters to loved ones. Close to Port Lockroy is Jougla Point where Gentoo penguins and Blue-eyed shags can be found and leopard seals, crabeater seals and whales inhabit the waters.
At the bottom of Andvord Bay, lies a little corner of paradise at the foot of a huge glacier. Neko Bay is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful sites in the Antarctic Peninsula. Wildlife is also abundant here, with seabirds such as gulls, Cape petrels, cormorants, and marine mammals such as seals, orcas and whales. Your guides will take you aboard the Zodiacs to get closer to the icebergs or land nearby to the penguin colonies, to observe a sea leopard, lounging on the beach or watch swoop of the Antarctic Terns.
Nestled in the heart of the Shetland Islands, north of the Antarctic Peninsula, Deception Island is easily recognizable by its horseshoe shape. On the black volcanic sand beaches, the ruins of the abandoned cabins now give way to a rich wildlife. The largest colony of chinstrap penguins in the Antarctic Peninsula has taken up residence on these beaches. Trips aboard the Zodiacs allow you to land here to observe the 100,000 pairs of penguins, elephant seals and fur seals up close.
Your journey to the "White Continent" begins by crossing the famous Drake Passage, considered by many as a rite of passage on a voyage to Antarctica. Named after the celebrated explorer Sir Frances Drake who first sailed these waters in 1578, the Drake Passage extends between Cape Horn and the South Shetland Islands and takes about 2 days to cross in favorable conditions. You'll pass the Polar Front, a fascinating area of the sea where waters from the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian Oceans meet. Keep your eyes open for seabirds and gulls such as albatrosses and petrels. It's near the South Shetland Islands that you'll spot your first icebergs.
Transfer
Private Transfer from Ushuaia Town Pier to Ushuaia airport
Flight
Flight from Ushuaia to Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires
Transfer
Private transfer to your hotel in Buenos Aires (from international airport)
Spend your time relaxing and exploring this wonderful city. You have our top recommendations for activities, restaurants and shopping so that you can make the most of your time here.
This exclusive tour serves as the perfect introduction to four of the city's most distinctive districts, offering a fascinating insight into its history, contrasts and culture. Your expert guide will draw on his extensive knowledge as you experience the highlights of Buenos Aires, including political centres, artist meccas and barrios rich in European architecture. You'll become acquainted with the foundation site of the capital at Plaza de Mayo, undisputedly Buenos Aires' political heart.
Next, you'll delve into one of the oldest districts, Parque Lezama and La Boca in the south, where artists ateliers and brightly coloured houses jostle for space; before moving on to Plaza San Martin and Retiro. Here, you'll notice the transformation of Buenos Aires architecture from the rambling style of the south of the city to the European-influenced residential quarters of the 19th century. Finally, you'll come face to face with the sophisticated neighbourhood of Recoleta, whose buildings and avenues were inspired by the French; it's also home to the world-famous Recoleta Cemetery and Evita Peron's Mausoleum, and you'll get to make a stop here on this tour.
Visit the epicenter of political life in Buenos Aires, a landmark dedicated to the country's independence from Spanish rule Dominated by the Casa Rosada (Government House), the Nación Bank, the Cathedral and original Parliament House, your guide will fill you in on its history and recurring importance.
Located on the western side of the Plaza de Mayo, this is the Argentine National Congress and the legislative branch of the government of Argentina, made up of the Senate and the Chamber of Deputies.
This is where the famous Caminito Street lies, scarcely 100 metres long, yet very much an emblematic post-card of the city. Designed by the Italian-Argentine artist Benito Quinquela Martín at a disused rail port terminal just beyond the iron cantilevered Puente de la Boca which bridges the river, it is a short yet busy pedestrian alley of brightly-painted houses which cluster above the cobblestones. The sheets of corrugated-iron shimmer with glossy blues, reds, yellows and greens and recall the original colours of the leftover paint with which the dockworkers painted their homes in the 19th century.
It might seem strange to visit a cemetery, but Recoleta doesn't fail to impress. Many mausoleums and tombs are the work of famous artists, seventy graves have been declared national monuments, but perhaps the most famous for our visitors will be the tomb of Evita Perón.
Enjoy the best tango show in town, set in the exclusive environs of the Faena Hotel. The Rojo tango is the smallest and most stylish of tango salons. Your evening includes soft drinks and alcoholic drinks such as wine and champagne, and transfers to and from the venue.
Transfer
Private transfer to Buenos Aires International Airport
We design private journeys for people who wish to go beyond the typical and experiencing something truly special. Our amazing team of travel designers, concierges and local guides work together to create unique journeys that get deep under the skin of where you’re visiting.