Your Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrive Rio de Janeiro
On arrival in Rio de Janeiro today, check into your hotel before enjoying time to recharge or stroll along the stunning Copacabana beachfront. Join a Welcome Reception tonight.
Today, head to Corcovado Mountain. From this vantage, admire the breathtaking views of Rio de Janeiro and its stunning surroundings. On a cable car ride to the summit of Sugarloaf Mountain, admire panoramas of Rio’s sprawling city, glittering bays, golden beaches and lush mountains. A highlight is seeing the Christ the Redeemer statue from your unique aerial vantage. This giant statue created by French-Polish sculptor Paul Landowski is the world’s largest art deco sculpture.
In a capital city as dynamic as Rio de Janeiro, there is always something around the corner to discover. Today you have a full day set aside to relax or explore, from beautiful, landscaped parks and botanical gardens to bohemian neighbourhoods and long stretches of sandy beaches.
Day 4 - Rio de Janeiro, Iguazu Falls
Fly from Rio de Janeiro to Iguazu Falls, a system of 275 falls on the border of Argentina and Brazil. On the Brazilian side, experience the majesty of World Heritage-listed Iguaçu National Park with a half-day tour. Walk through spectacular subtropical rainforest and take in breathtaking panoramic views of the falls.
On the Argentinian side, ride the Rainforest Ecological Train to a series of walkways and viewing points. This narrow-gauge train stops at several locations including one that leads to the 82-metre-high Devil’s Throat, one of the most spectacular falls in the region.
Today, fly to the vibrant city of Buenos Aires where you can spend the day at leisure.
Day 7 - Ushuaia, Embark Ship
Wake up bright and early to board your flight for the southernmost town of Ushuaia, known as the gateway to Antarctica. On arrival, set out for Tierra Del Fuego National Park and take in some of the spectacular views with dramatic mountain and forested backdrops. Upon returning to Ushuaia, embark your Expedition Ship, the MS Fridtjof Nansen. This evening, set sail across the Drake Passage towards the South Shetland Islands and Antarctica.
As your ship crosses the Drake Passage, spend the next two days on board enjoying the facilities. Prepare for your epic Antarctica adventure by levelling up your knowledge at the onboard Science Center. Listen in as your knowledgeable Expedition Team runs lectures on Antarctica's history, the science behind the landscape, and the impact climate change and plastic pollution has on the great white continent. You'll also learn how to make your visit as safe and low impact as possible during your time here. Partake in the various workshops on offer that cover everything from Antarctic bird feather samples to identifying whales from afar by the size and shape of their blow spouts.
There’s plenty of time to unwind during days at sea. Admire views of passing scenery while soaking in the outdoor hot tub, floating in the saltwater infinity pool, or warming up in the sauna. When you’re ready to stretch your legs, head to the walking track and squeeze in a couple of laps before ordering a cocktail at the Explorer Lounge & Bar.
Day 10 - Antarctic Peninsula
Soak in the epic icescapes of Antarctica as you spend five days exploring its wild peninsula. Nothing can prepare you for scenes of icebergs the size of houses, looming glaciers and the continent's unique wildlife. One of the most surprising things about Antarctica is its icy silence, broken every so often by the squawking of penguins or the mighty crash of a calving iceberg.
Day 11 - Antarctic Peninsula
Each day offers a new opportunity for adventure. Your Captain will keep a close eye on ice and weather conditions, charting a course that will result in the best possible adventure. Join your Travelmarvel Cruise Director and Expedition Team on shore landings, getting up close and personal with resident seal colonies and penguin rookeries. Shore landings are a great opportunity to join moderate but rewarding hikes to observe chinstrap and gentoo penguin rookeries.
Day 12 - Antarctic Peninsula
Rug up in your fleece-lined dry suit and perhaps enjoy the chance to go kayaking among the icebergs, keeping an eye out for leopard seals and Adelie penguins. Or head off on Zodiac, keeping watch for whales in deeper waters: orca, humpback and minke are often spotted here.
Day 13 - Antarctic Peninsula
For days you prefer to stay on board, learn about Antarctica at educational lectures hosted by your knowledgeable Expedition Team. Discover more about the unique environment, fascinating wildlife and history of the region.
Day 14 - Antarctic Peninsula
Below deck, feast on chef-prepared fare at the onboard restaurant. You might like to also make use of the onboard gym equipment or enjoy the views from the bar with a drink in hand.
It’s time to depart Antarctica’s waters for our return crossing across the Drake Passage en route to Argentina. Claim yourself a spot on the observation deck and look out for wildlife – you might be lucky enough to spy a breaching whale – or perhaps spend some time in the ship’s lounge with new-found friends and reflect on your Antarctic adventure.
Enjoy further lectures on board, recap your Antarctic discoveries at the citizen science achievements, or grab a book from the ship’s library to further your knowledge of the white continent.
Day 17 - Ushuaia, Disembark Ship, Buenos Aires
This morning, your ship arrives back in Ushuaia. Disembark after breakfast and board your flight to Buenos Aires, then be transferred to your premium hotel.
Your in-depth tour of Buenos Aires starts this morning along the Avenida de Mayo. At the Plaza de Mayo, admire the pink Casa Rosada, a palatial building that houses the offices of the Argentine president. You’ll also see the city’s cathedral as well as the Cabildo, Buenos Aires’ first city hall. Later, explore the Italian-influenced barrio of La Boca and its famously colourful pedestrian street, the Caminito. You’ll also travel along Avenida 9 de Julio.
This evening, enjoy a delicious Insider Experience Farewell Dinner.
Day 19 - Depart Buenos Aires
Today after breakfast, your Antarctic and South American journey comes to an end.