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.
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
This 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.
Day
11 To Punta Arenas
Return to King George Island for your flight to Punta
Arenas. Upon arrival in Punta Arenas, you will be escorted to your hotel. The
rest of the day is at your leisure.
Day
12 Punta Arenas / Santiago / Departure
After breakfast, you will be escorted to the airport
for your flight to Santiago, where you can connect to your onward flight.
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