HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Antarctica & Falkland Islands Expedition – from Punta Arenas to Buenos Aires

24-day itinerary

Day 1: Santiago, Chile’s capital

The journey begins in Santiago, Chile’s vibrant capital. There is so much to see and do as you kick off your expedition cruise. Whether you would like to take in the city’s colonial-era architecture, high-quality restaurants, or fascinating Museums, Santiago offers something for everyone. Visit the Mercado Central Market and the Presidential Palaca, or check out the Sky Costanera which offers panoramic views of the city, 1,000 feet in the air.

Hurtigruten recommend arriving a few days early and joining one of the available pre-program packages, to experience the best of Santiago.

Day 2: Punta Arenas departure

Starting early, you will be departing Santiago and flying to Chile’s Southernmost port city, Punta Arenas. As you embark your expedition cruise ship, take time to familiarise yourself with the excellent onboard facilities, and meet your expedition team.

Given their years of experience journeying round the Antarctic Circle, the friendly and welcoming team will be happy to answer any questions you may have before you set off on your adventure.

Day 3-4: Getting ready for Antarctica

The following two days after your trip to Punta Arenas will be spent at sea, where you will many opportunities to learn more about the wonders awaiting you on your trip.

Hurtigruten’s onboard expedition team are experts in everything from Oceanography and Geology to History and Ornithology, as you set sail on the two-day crossing through The Drake Passage. Drop in on their engrossing lectures and take part in the hands-on presentations in the Science centre.

See if you can spot any rare wandering albatrosses and petrels while on deck, and make the most of the excellent onboard facilities.

Day 5-14: Experience Antarctica

The first sight of Antarctica’s immense, frozen beauty will leave you speechless. Titanic icebergs float in the straits as you are greeted with the sheer majesty of this ice-covered continent. Despite the harsh conditions, nature continues to thrive. Gentoo and Chinstrap penguins court while Adelie Penguins nest. Countless seabirds patrol the skies overhead. This is a place like no other.

You will actively explore several landing sites over the next 10 days, with there being a total of 20 possible landing areas around the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands. Every day will be thrilling in different ways, no matter where you go or what you do.

The cruise may sail into flooded volcanic caldera or land in icy bays where you may see remnants of whaling paraphernalia. The experienced expedition team may also take passengers kayaking amongst the icebergs and seals, and snowshoeing to scenic viewpoints.

Antarctic seabirds such as skuas, petrels, and terns make for great viewing for bird enthusiasts. The team will also conduct onboard lectures and onshore talks surrounding the precious habitat, and how we as humans can help to conserve it.

Day 15-16: Onwards to the Falklands

Marine Biology, Oceanography, and climate change are just a few examples of the compelling topics that will be covered by the expedition team’s lecture program when you reboard the vessel. Passengers may also be offered the chance to examine some seawater samples taken from Antarctica, while the bar and pool facilities remain open during the day-time for travellers who wish to unwind before the next stage of the expedition. Take in the many variations of bird species whilst on deck as we approach the Falkland Islands, including petrels, gulls, albatross, and fulmars.

Day 17-19: Wildlife of the Falklands

Familiarity will return as we reach the emerald green grass, white sands and picturesque farms of the Falkland Islands, with Antarctica’s frozen wilderness now seeming a world away. The schedule during the visit to the Islands will be flexible due to the ever-changing conditions, while the Expedition team and the captain will use their experience to navigate the environment safely and efficiently.

A utopia for a wide array of bird species, the Islands are home to ducks, geese, albatross, and wrens, whilst four different species of Penguins are found here: rockhopper, the king, magellanic, and gentoo. The gentoo Penguins will often be seen in large colonies dotted around the Islands, and may be visible from the ship.

Stanley, the islands’ capital, is located on the East Falkland Island and is easily accessible by ship. Travellers will able to explore the Islands on foot due to their small size, whilst taking advantage of the enticing pubs and restaurants the islands have to offer.

Day 20: The South Atlantic and Puerto Madryn

Enjoy another tranquil day at sea as your expedition will now head towards Puerto Madryn. Your fantastic experiences at both the Falkland Islands and the Antarctic will be racing through your mind during the journey, so take some time out to reflect and relax as you enter the final stages of your expedition adventure.

Why not also take advantage of the excellent restaurant and bar areas, as you leave the idyllic landscape in the rear-view. Be sure to unwind from all of the excitement by using the panoramic sauna and hot-tub facilities as the cruise heads towards the beautiful Puerto Madryn.

Day 21: A UNESCO wildlife haven

Puerto Madryn, the gateway to the remarkable Valdes Peninsula, is the next stop on the expedition. This sun-kissed Patagonian city is home to spectacular beaches and warm temperatures, with guests having the opportunity to explore the city’s stunning nature reserve and UNESCO recognised World Heritage Site.

Immerse yourself in the idyllic natural beauty of the reserve, or try some of the sumptuous local food on offer. With a staggering 180 species of bird living on the Peninsula, bring a pair of binoculars and see how may you can spot during your stay.

Day 22-23: Cruising the Argentine basin

As you begin to head towards Buenos Aires from Puerto Madryn, the expedition cruise is coming to an end. Take time to reflect on your unique memories visiting Antarctica, the Falkland Islands, and Puerto Madryn, whilst soaking up the sun by the onboard infinity pool or outdoor gym.

Speak to the expedition team about your experiences and absorb the wealth of knowledge, insights, and interesting stories they have to offer. Enjoy a farewell meal during your final evening, indulging in the sumptuous food and drink at one of the restaurants before you prepare for the last leg of the journey

Day 24: Expedition finale in Buenos Aires

Unfortunately, the expedition has to come to an end at this stage. The 24 days spent in the vastly different locations will give you memories and experiences to remember for a lifetime, as you head back to Argentina’s capital. However, your journey does not have to end here. If you wish to stay for a few extra days, enter onto Hurtigruten’s post-program exploration of the magnificent Iguazu falls, one of the largest waterfalls on the planet.

What’s included

Hotel

• Overnight in Santiago de Chile before the expedition cruise, including breakfast

Flights

• Flight in economy class from Santiago de Chile to Punta Arenas before the expedition cruise

Transfers

• Transfer from the hotel to the airport in Santiago de Chile before the expedition cruise
• Transfer from the airport to the ship in Punta Arenas before the expedition cruise

Expedition Cruise

• A stay in a cabin of your choice
• Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner
• Wine, beer and spirits available at meals and throughout the day and evening (subject to licensing laws, excludes premium drinks)
• All day coffee, tea and soft drinks
• Fine dining in restaurant Lindstrøm included for suite guests
• A complimentary water bottle to refill on board and take home
• A polar expedition jacket, a backpack, or another piece of HX kit
• Professional photos from your trip taken by our onboard photographer
• Complimentary Wi-Fi. Please note, streaming is not supported
• Use of sauna, hot tubs, fitness room, lounges and more
• Gratuities included. Fantastic service is standard at HX – though if you’d like to leave something extra, it’s always appreciated
• Range of included activities

Onboard Activities

• In-depth lectures and discussions hosted by experts on the Expedition Team
• Full access to the ship’s Science Centre
• Citizen Science Programme allows guests to assist with ongoing scientific research
• Professional onboard photographer gives tips and tricks for the best landscape and wildlife photos
• Informal gatherings with the crew for daily briefings

Landing Activities

• Escorted landing with small expedition boats
• Loan of boots, trekking poles and all equipment for activities
• Expedition photographers on hand to assist you

Notes

• All planned activities are subject to weather and ice conditions
• Excursions and activities are subject to change
• Please make sure you meet all entry and boarding requirements
• Depending on your flight times, an additional overnight might be needed (not included)
• Mandatory Medical Screening Form to be completed by all passengers for Expeditions to Antarctica. See the help center for more information.

What’s not included

• International flights
• Additional overnight(s) if required due to international flight timings
• Travel insurance
• Luggage handling
• Optional shore excursions with our local partners
• Optional small-group activities with our Expedition Team

MS Fram