New: Republic of the Congo Holidays

Antarctica Flying Cruise and Patagonia Highlights

Duration
16 days
Price
£18,095 pp.
Location
Antarctica Cruises, Polar Cruises
Torres del Paine Chile 4

Trip Highlights

  • See the colourful baroque architecture of Valparaiso, Chile
  • Step foot on the continent of Antarctica
  • Wind it all up with a rest at a Chilean vineyard

What's Included

  • 13 nights accommodation
  • All transfers and internal flights
  • All guided shore excursions, lectures, and entertainment on board the Antarctic expedition ship

Inimitable expedition to the furthest corners of Earth

Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey that seamlessly combines cultural discovery with the breathtaking beauty of Antarctica and Patagonia.

Fly into Santiago spend a few days exploring Chile - travel to the enchanting Valparaíso, a newly declared UNESCO heritage site and home to some of the region's most exquisite vineyards.

Next, venture to the heart of Patagonia and the captivating Torres del Paine National Park. Your three-day stay at Lago Grey Hotel offers an all-inclusive experience, complete with guided tours and a cruise to witness the majestic Grey Glacier up close.

After you’ve been stunned by Patagonia, prepare for yet another shock to your system as you take an air cruise to Antarctica. In the past, travellers had to endure a daunting 2-day sail through the treacherous Drake Passage to reach the Antarctic Peninsula. However, there is now a more comfortable and efficient option and instead of braving rough seas and seasickness, you can now "Fly the Drake," on a two-hour flight from Punta Arenas. Upon arrival, you board your expedition ship, ready to embark on an unforgettable journey. These small expedition vessels, resembling private yachts, grant access to remote Antarctic areas inaccessible to larger ships. With fewer guests, the boarding process is swift, ensuring ample time ashore to enjoy every moment of this unparalleled travel experience.

From there, sail through ice-filled fjords, encounter awe-inspiring icebergs, and witness an array of wildlife, including penguins, seals, and whales. Expert polar guides lead daily Zodiac landings, ensuring an intimate encounter with the Antarctic environment.

As your expedition draws to a close, reflect on the remarkable journey you've undertaken and the connections you've forged with fellow adventurers. Return to Punta Arenas and then Santiago, where you'll unwind at Las Majadas Hotel in the Maipo Valley, indulging in local wines and exquisite cuisine.

In just 16 days, this extraordinary journey takes you from vibrant cities to untamed wilderness and culminates in the awe-inspiring landscapes of Antarctica. It's a testament to the richness and diversity of our planet, promising memories and stories to be cherished forever.


Trip Itinerary

Day 1 Happy holidays!

Time to truly get excited about your incredible upcoming trip as you board your international flight to Santiago, Chile.

Special offer: £Save £2,000pp with early booking per night now only £

Day 2 Welcome to Santiago.

Staying at Le Reve

Land in Santiago, where you will be received and transferred to Le Reve hotel, where you will stay for two nights.

Once you have had a chance to get your bearings it's time to head off on a city tour around Santiago, visiting the city’s most outstanding attractions, including a walking tour downtown. Then, traverse the main avenues of old Santiago by vehicle, crossing the bohemian neighbourhood of Bellavista to climb the San Cristobal Hill in a panoramic bus, for a magnificent view of the city and the Andes Mountains Range. Return from the hill on a cable car ride and then you will go to the modern district of the city, visiting stylish neighbourhoods for some shopping and great food.

Day 3 Valparaíso

Days 4 - 6 Torres Del Paine and Grey Glacier

Day 7 Off to Antarctica!

Day 8 South Shetland Islands

Days 9-12 Antarctic Cruise

Day 13 Return flight from Antarctica

Day 14 Santiago and the Chilean winelands

Day 15 Homeward Bound

Day 16 Arrive home

See more Antarctica holidays

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See more Chile holidays

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Speak to an Antarctica specialist today.

Start planning your dream holiday Antarctica.

Amanda

Amanda

Latin America Specialist

Call an expert on

01768 603 715

When to go to Antarctica

Find out the best time to visit Antarctica with our month-by-month guide.

  • Best
  • Good
  • Mixed
  • Jan
  • Feb
  • Mar
  • Apr
  • May
  • Jun
  • Jul
  • Aug
  • Sep
  • Oct
  • Nov
  • Dec

January

Peak season with near 24-hour daylight. Spot adorable fluffy penguin chicks and explore remote huts used by explorers in the Ross Sea.

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February

Best time for whale watching, including humpback, sperm, and orca whales. Penguins and fur seals remain abundant, and cruises venture beyond the Polar Circle.

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March

As the season winds down, fewer ships visit. Great for whale spotting and witnessing fur seals on the Antarctic Peninsula.

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April

Cruise ships are absent during the winter, with extreme temperatures and darkness dominating the region. Only scientists and film crews stay.

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May

Cruise ships are absent during the winter, with extreme temperatures and darkness dominating the region. Only scientists and film crews stay.

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June

Cruise ships are absent during the winter, with extreme temperatures and darkness dominating the region. Only scientists and film crews stay.

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July

Cruise ships are absent during the winter, with extreme temperatures and darkness dominating the region. Only scientists and film crews stay.

Expand

August

Cruise ships are absent during the winter, with extreme temperatures and darkness dominating the region. Only scientists and film crews stay.

Expand

September

Cruise ships are absent during the winter, with extreme temperatures and darkness dominating the region. Only scientists and film crews stay.

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October

Few cruises visit this early, but it offers lower fares, pristine landscapes, and the potential for great photography. Look for penguins and seals on icebergs.

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November

The Antarctica season begins, and you can witness hatching penguin chicks. Combining with South Georgia allows viewing elephant seal courting and penguin mating. Spring flowers bloom on subantarctic islands, and seabirds soar over the Drake Passage.

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December

Arguably the best time with warmer temperatures, long daylight, and active wildlife. However, it's the most expensive period.

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Plan with an expert Plan with an expert

Have a look at our original holiday experiences and then contact us with your brief, or call 01768 603 715

A tailor-made itinerary just for you A tailor-made itinerary just for you

Our experts will send you a detailed holiday itinerary specified to your desires. It's our service promise to you.

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