Antarctica Express
Discover the beauty of Antarctica on this sail in, fly back cruise
Personalised journeys from start to finish
Every trip helps support Conservation
Every detail taken care of
Itinerary highlights
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Enjoy a Rojo tango show and dinner in Buenos Aires
- Explore the beautiful Tierra del Fuego National Park
- Cross the famous Drake Passage between Cape Horn and the South Shetland Islands
- See a variety of ocean wildlife, including whales, seals, penguins and other seabirds
What's included
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Completely private tours in Buenos Aires and Ushuaia
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Luxury Antarctica cruise
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Full support from your Travel Concierge before, during and after your trip
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Meet and greet airport service
At a glance
Even if you don’t have weeks to spare, you don’t have to miss out on the opportunity to explore Antarctica. Our team of travel designers can craft an incredible adventure for you, with your available time in mind. This trip is an example of what we can create for you, allowing you to experience a little bit of Argentina combined with a truly memorable Antarctica cruise.
Your journey begins with a night in Buenos Aires and a rousing Rojo tango show and dinner, before flying to Ushuaia the next day where you will spend an afternoon in Tierra del Fuego National Park. Spend five incredible days cruising through the Drake Passage and the South Shetland Islands, keeping an eye out for wildlife and drinking in the incredible views along the way.
At the end of your cruise, you’ll fly from King George Island to Punta Arenas for one final night, reflecting on your adventure and enjoying what the city has to offer, before heading home.
Example trip itinerary
Buenos Aires
Transfer
Private transfer to your hotel in Buenos Aires
Accommodation in Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires
Overview
Hub Porteño is a historic property set on a quiet street in the heart of Recoleta, and feels more like a home than a hotel. There are just 11 rooms, bright and spacious and filled with antique furniture and more recent pieces from local artisans.
The hotel’s rooftop terrace is a beautiful spot with outdoor seating nestled among the lush greenery – a real city centre oasis. Here you can relax with a drink from the bar and a bite to eat or simply sit back with the morning paper. La Pecora Nera Grill specialises in new Argentinian cuisine while the cosy living room is the place to enjoy drinks and snacks.
There is also a wellness centre with a sauna, gym and treatment room.
→ 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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Buenos 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
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.
→ Find out more
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.
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Rojo Tango Show with dinner
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 a three course dinner, wine, and transfers to and from the venue.
Transfer
Transfer to the airport
Transfer
Flight to Ushuaia
Ushuaia
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.
→ Find out more
Ushuaia
Overview
Located actually on the shore of the Beagle Channel, Los Cauquenes is one of the best located and most comfortable options available in Ushuaia.
Though a large hotel, it has been constructed from wood and stone in sympathy with the natural surrounds of the area. The hotel has 54 spacious rooms. Given the location we feel that it’s definitely worth choosing a channel view room.
Facilities include a spa and pool area both enjoying stunning views out across the channel. The hotel is around 7km from the town of Ushuaia itself, though the hotel’s own restaurant is excellent.
→ Find out more
An afternoon in Tierra del Fuego
Tierra del Fuego National Park contains a microcosm of Patagonia's landscape - sea, mountains and forest. Driving out of Ushuaia, enter the National Park through a valley to Ensenada Bay, your first stop. From here you can see Redonda and Estorbo Islands and, on the opposite coast of the Beagle Channel, the snow-white mountains of the Sampaio chain in Chile. Continue on through lush sub Antarctic forest to Roca Lake and Lapataia River for a walk and reach the so-called end of the Pan American route at the southernmost tip of this route in Latin America.
Cruising Antarctica
Cruise ships in Antarctica
Fly in Cruises to the Antarctic
Overview
The Magellan Explorer is an expedition vessel custom built for Antarctic cruises. For Antartica21’s air-cruises, the Magellan Explorer has capacity for 73 passengers, but for maximum comfort only 38 cabins are occupied. There are seven categories of accommodation, all with individually controlled heating systems, a sitting area, and a private bathroom with shower, and all categories except Porthole cabins have private balconies. Elegant modern interiors are the work of a renowned interior design studio based in Santiago.
The ship features a glass-enclosed observation lounge and presentation room with state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment, a spacious and stylish dining room, a well-stocked bar, a library, a meeting room, a gym, a sauna, and a medical clinic. The forward-facing observation deck leads to the bow of the ship, a great place from which to spot marine wildlife. The ship has a fleet of 10 Zodiac boats that are well suited for disembarking and wildlife watching in small guided groups.
→ Find out moreFly in Cruises to the Antarctic
Overview
Antarctica21’s Ocean Nova is a unique set-up allowing you to make the very most of your precious time and maximise exploration at Antarctica itself. Flights depart from Punta Arenas in the South of Chile (the program includes a night in Punta Arenas before the flight where you will have a welcome meal and presentation before your adventure the next day.
Arriving into the Southern Continent you board the Ocean Nova, a modern passenger vessel (rather than a converted scientific vessel as many other cruises). All 38 cabins are outdoor, with private facilities.
A relatively small vessel, the Ocean Nova is able to reach areas other larger cruises cannot, it also allows more exploration as the smaller number of guests means that no time has to be spent waiting for groups to ‘take their turn’ in the visit. Guiding is excellent and there is high guide to guest ratio. As well as zodiac boat trips ashore, you can opt add kayaking or snowshoeing packages to your adventure.
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Five-day Antarctica cruise
This trip offers you the chance to visit Cape Horn, cruise the Drake Passage, land in Antarctica and then fly back. There's plenty of opportunity to spot wildlife and enjoy the spectacular scenery along the way.
The Drake Passage
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.
South Shetland Islands
After crossing the Antarctic Convergence, the environment changes noticeably. Keep your camera ready, as this is the time to watch for the first icebergs and the first sight of Antarctic land. Reaching the South Shetland Islands, sail in ice-filled bays, while enjoying the company of seabirds, penguins, seals, and whales. Board a Zodiac for your first memorable shore visit to a penguin colony. Exploration will continue well into the evening taking advantage of the long Antarctic daylight. Your cruise will end at King George Island.
Transfer
Flight from King George Island to Punta Arenas
Punta Arenas
Accommodation in Punta Arenas
Punta Arenas
Overview
A good, comfortable and well-maintained hotel in which to stop over whilst in Punta Arenas. There are 111 rooms, some with views of the city’s main plaza, others with views out across the Magellan Straits. The hotel is fairly centrally located and has a pleasant bar and restaurant area.
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Overnight in Punta Arenas
Spend the night in one of the southernmost cities in the world, Punta Arenas. The small city, with a population of around 130,000, is most commonly used as a stopover for those en route to the Torres del Paine National Park or for one of the cruises through the Straits of Magellan. The city is very important to the region, being one of the largest ports in this isolated area.
Transfer
Transfer to the airport for your onward flight
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.
Other trips you may be interested in
Get in touch
Antarctica Express
How we work
Even if you don’t have weeks to spare, you don’t have to miss out on the opportunity to explore Antarctica. Our team of travel designers can craft an incredible adventure for you, with your available time in mind. This trip is an example of what we can create for you, allowing you to experience a little bit of Argentina combined with a truly memorable Antarctica cruise. Your journey begins with a night in Buenos Aires and a rousing Rojo tango show and dinner, before flying to Ushuaia the next day where you will spend an afternoon in Tierra del Fuego National Park. Spend five incredible days cruising through the Drake Passage and the South Shetland Islands, keeping an eye out for wildlife and drinking in the incredible views along the way. At the end of your cruise, you’ll fly from King George Island to Punta Arenas for one final night, reflecting on your adventure and enjoying what the city has to offer, before heading home. | Whats included?
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Days 1-2 |
Buenos Aires |
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Flights & transfers
Private transfer to your hotel in Buenos Aires |
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Accommodation in Buenos Aires
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Hub Porteño - $$$$$
Hub Porteño is a historic property set on a quiet street in the heart of Recoleta, and feels...
•
Nuss Boutique Hotel - $$$$$
Nuss Hotel is located in a converted convent in the lively are of Palermo, next to...
•
Legado Mitico - $$$$$
Set in the fashionable and leafy district of Palermo, Legado Mitico is a beautiful boutique...
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Four Seasons Buenos Aires - $$$$$
Perhaps the best luxury hotel in Buenos Aires, the Four Seasons is really very suited to the...
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Faena Hotel Buenos Aires - $$$$$
The Faena Buenos Aires is a striking design hotel in the waterside neighborhood of Puerto...
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| Rojo Tango Show with dinner Enjoy the best Tango Show in town, set in the exclusive environs of the Faena Hotel. The Rojo tango is the smallest and most stylish of tango salons. Your evening includes a three course dinner, wine, and transfers to and from the venue. |
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Flights & transfers
Transfer to the airport |
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| Flight to Ushuaia | |
Days 2-3 |
Ushuaia |
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Accommodation in Ushuaia
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Arakur - $$$$$
Hotel Arakur is situated in the middle of this extraordinary environment inside the Reserva...
•
Los Cauquenes - $$$$$
Located actually on the shore of the Beagle Channel, Los Cauquenes is one of the best located...
|
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| An afternoon in Tierra del Fuego Tierra del Fuego National Park contains a microcosm of Patagonia's landscape - sea, mountains and forest. Driving out of Ushuaia, enter the National Park through a valley to Ensenada Bay, your first stop. From here you can see Redonda and Estorbo Islands and, on the opposite coast of the Beagle Channel, the snow-white mountains of the Sampaio chain in Chile. Continue on through lush sub Antarctic forest to Roca Lake and Lapataia River for a walk and reach the so-called end of the Pan American route at the southernmost tip of this route in Latin America. |
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Days 3-7 |
Cruising Antarctica |
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Cruise ships in Antarctica
•
Antarctica21: Magellan Explorer - $$$$$
The Magellan Explorer is an expedition vessel custom built for
•
Antarctica21: Ocean Nova - $$$$$
Antarctica21’s Ocean Nova is a unique set-up allowing you to make the very most of your...
|
|
| Five-day Antarctica cruise This trip offers you the chance to visit Cape Horn, cruise the Drake Passage, land in Antarctica and then fly back. There's plenty of opportunity to spot wildlife and enjoy the spectacular scenery along the way. |
|
| The Drake Passage Your journey to the "White Continent" begins by crossing the famous Drake Passage, considered by many as a rite of passage on a voyage to Antarctica. Named after the celebrated explorer Sir Frances Drake who first sailed these waters in 1578, the Drake Passage extends between Cape Horn and the South Shetland Islands and takes about 2 days to cross in favorable conditions. You'll pass the Polar Front, a fascinating area of the sea where waters from the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian Oceans meet. Keep your eyes open for seabirds and gulls such as albatrosses and petrels. It's near the South Shetland Islands that you'll spot your first icebergs. |
|
| South Shetland Islands After crossing the Antarctic Convergence, the environment changes noticeably. Keep your camera ready, as this is the time to watch for the first icebergs and the first sight of Antarctic land. Reaching the South Shetland Islands, sail in ice-filled bays, while enjoying the company of seabirds, penguins, seals, and whales. Board a Zodiac for your first memorable shore visit to a penguin colony. Exploration will continue well into the evening taking advantage of the long Antarctic daylight. Your cruise will end at King George Island. |
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Flights & transfers
Flight from King George Island to Punta Arenas |
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Days 7-8 |
Punta Arenas |
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Accommodation in Punta Arenas
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Hotel Cabo de Hornos - $$$$$
A good, comfortable and well-maintained hotel in which to stop over whilst in Punta Arenas....
|
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| Overnight in Punta Arenas Spend the night in one of the southernmost cities in the world, Punta Arenas. The small city, with a population of around 130,000, is most commonly used as a stopover for those en route to the Torres del Paine National Park or for one of the cruises through the Straits of Magellan. The city is very important to the region, being one of the largest ports in this isolated area. |
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Flights & transfers
Transfer to the airport for your onward flight |
