Best South America Cruises Reviews

South America is full of beautiful natural sites, rich history, and vibrant cultures. From the Galápagos Islands in Ecuador to the charming Cartagena in Colombia to the ancient history of Cusco, Peru. There’s a lot to see and do. For particular destinations in South America, we recommend touring by cruise, rather than exploring every region by land. Avoid adding multiple land transfers to your trip, and have an expert set you up with a full-package cruise tour. Booking a custom South America cruise with an expert will make sorting through your travel options a whole lot easier. When you go this route, the entire trip is customised and planned for you. You will be able to catch sight of some of the country’s best offerings, all from the comfort of the ship. We present you a couple of  South America cruises reviews so you can determine which is right for you.

1. Amazon Rainforest Cruises

Amazon Rainforest Cruises travel along the Amazon River, surrounded by the luscious Amazon Jungle. Travellers can choose from many Amazon Cruise options. There are various types of vessels, depending on the kind of experience you are looking to obtain. Also, cruise routes vary in terms of which part of the Amazon you are looking to see. These cruises allow visitors to feel fully immersed in the rainforest as they sail down exclusive paths. These routes may be less traveled, but they still offer several must-see sites worthy of exploration. These are recommended to travelers seeking to gain an off-the-grid experience.

The most popular Amazon cruise offered is the Tucano Amazon Cruise, a feature in the National Geographic Traveler Magazine. The Tucano is unique due to its size. With only 13 cabins, it provides a more intimate and therefore, more authentic experience. The crew and guides take passengers via launches and canoes to some of the lesser-known tributaries along the river. Visitors get the opportunity to witness unique sights such as the Meeting of the Waters. Furthermore, you have a chance to see the Anavilhanas Archipelago – an island system part of a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site. This once-in-a-lifetime cruise runs for 5-days / 4-nights. It’s one of the most reviewed South America cruises.

2. Galápagos Island Cruises

The Galápagos Islands are one of the last unspoiled places on Earth. Where animals can roam free, and vegetation spreads without the interference of humankind. In fact, of the 120 islands that make up the Galápagos, only four have human inhabitants. The Galápagos Islands are home to one of the most diverse wildlife populations on earth. Such communities include penguins, tortoises, sea lions and exotic birds.

The Galápagos Islands Legend Cruise takes you directly to this virtually untouched corner of the planet. The ship itself is one of the most comfortable and luxurious available. Complete with modern amenities, balcony suites, and an elegant dining hall. Keep your eyes peeled for the variety of seabirds and sea life that flock to and surround the island. When you disembark, enjoy a period during which you are free to explore the islands at your leisure.

3. Antarctica Cruises

When most people think of South America cruises, they think of cruises that will take them through the lush rainforests of the Amazon. However, there is also Antarctica, affectionately known as the land of ice. An example of an Antarctica cruise begins on King George Island,  which is a two-hour flight from Punta Arenas. Once you arrive, be greeted by a cruise representative, and begin your eight-day glacier-filled adventure. Because the weather is so unpredictable in the arctic, every cruise itinerary looks different.

During your Antarctica cruise, visit one or several of the South Shetland Islands, which include Paradise Bay, Lemaire Channel or Petermann Island, to name a few. If you’re lucky when you disembark you’ll be greeted by a Emperor or Macaroni penguin colony. While there is a no-touch policy, if you stay still, they may come up to you to take a picture!  Charismatic sea elephants are also abundant in this region. They are very recognisable because of their trunk-like inflatable snouts.

4. Patagonia Cruises

Some of the most popular cruises in South America are Patagonia cruises. These cruises take you to the “uttermost end of the earth.” Where you will be privy to some of the most spectacular sites on this planet. If you elect for the Ushuaia – Punta Arenas route, you will travel through the Strait of Magellan and Beagle Channel. The stops made are at preserved sites such as Cape Horn, Pia Glacier, De Agostini Sound, and Magdalena Island. Each stop offers a unique experience that you will be hard-pressed to find elsewhere.

For instance, when you stop at Wulaia Bay on the Cap, you will walk in the same footsteps as Charles Darwin. As well as have the opportunity to explore the home of the region’s largest aboriginal settlements. At Pia Glacier, a team of experienced hikers will lead you to Garibaldi Fjord.

Contact a South America Cruise Expert 

South America has so much to offer, and sometimes the best way to explore a region is by cruise. Book your custom South America cruise to explore all the region has to offer.

The Amazon Rainforest & How to Choose the Best Accommodations

The Amazon rainforest is a massive biome covering over 5.5 million square kilometers! It spans over 9 countries in South America! The Amazon is considered to be one of the worlds most biodiverse tropical rainforests on Earth with an estimated 390 billion individual trees! Or about 16,000 species. As for wildlife, there are an estimated 2.5 million insects, 1,294 birds, 427 mammals, 428 amphibians, and 378 reptiles. While visiting the Amazon Rainforest you might want to consider your accommodations. A place to reminisce after the days adventures. Sunsets over the river, or stories around a campfire. A morning cup of coffee can be had at both! We often ask our travelers what kind of Amazon journey they’d like to embark on. Will it be a lodge or a cruise? Both of these are great options, but have their unique characteristics. Read on to get an understanding of each, and let us know if you’d like more details. We’re passionate about the Amazon!

An Amazon River Cruise

A cruise can give the experience and comfort of luxury in the Amazon, where lodges in this region often don’t measure up. While there are lodges that are considered “luxurious”, they can’t compete with the amenities a 5★ cruise has. So if you are searching for elegant showers, high thread count sheets, gourmet meals, and spas, plan on taking a cruise.

Our travel experts know the area, they’ve traveled there and seen it for themselves. Our team helps our travelers decide which cruises will have the amenities they desire. Not all Amazon River boats are considered luxurious. The trick is knowing how to experience the Amazon River like a pro! The ships we work with not only have the finer amenities, but are quite small. This means they can meander through small tributaries! We want our travelers to have that exclusivity, but also a chance to meet other travelers on the boats and make new friends. If you are more interested in the marine life of the Amazon, a cruise will offer more chances for you to see this type of flora and fauna. Otters, fish, snakes, caiman, manatees, frogs, turtles and yes, even dolphins! Yes, that means piranhas and anacondas too, and our guest often return excited about seeing all this wildlife. Our partners and cruise ship captains keep their guest absolutely safe. Don’t worry, Anacondas are actually very cool to see. While not always the case, excursions from cruises tend to be a bit easier so this is great for older or younger guests! You’ll do more boating excursions which means you can relax and enjoy rather your excursion rather than having to hike somewhere. (Although we can arrange this too if you’re interested). Almost all cruises will have more hotel like comforts you’re familiar with. Air conditioning, hot water, 24/7 electricity, and more. Yes you can charge your camera on most boats! (Side note: as someone who has visited the Amazon 3 times and definitely does not enjoy being uncomfortable, I have never felt like I had to have any of those things in a lodge or cruise. But if you are someone who desires these amenities, a cruise is a great option.) You’ve probably heard about bugs in the Amazon! On a cruise, you’ll be less likely to have to deal with them! In truth, and you may be surprised to hear this, bugs are actually not that big of a problem in the Amazon. If you’re a bit squeamish, your cabin in a cruise will be completely closed to the outside and you’ll have less chance of a surprise visitor. Cruises tend to have a much smaller capacity for guests, so the setting may be a bit more intimate. Your excursion group sizes will most likely be the same (around 8) in lodge or cruise. Bring your friends or family, let us worry about fitting you on the right boat. And let us know if you want something quieter, or a larger boat so you can make new friends on your journey.

Amazon Rainforest Lodges

Your guides at lodges have the ability to be more flexible with excursions due to weather or particular animal sightings. If they know that a rare animal sighting is nearby, such as a Black Spider Monkey or Sloth, they can move the schedule around and maybe get you out there to see it. Additionally, if the weather’s not perfect, they can move the schedule around for that too and come up with other activities. You’ll get a much more in-depth experience in the area you are located at a lodge. There will be many hiking trails and you’ll spend your days and nights getting to know the area well. Typically lodges come at a lower price than a cruise so you have budget flexibility to enjoy on other parts of your South American adventure. If you are more interested in the wildlife that inhabits the forest of the Amazon, a lodge will offer more chances for you to see this type of flora and fauna. Think pigs, capybara, birds, monkeys, sloths, monkeys, Macaws, and more! If you want to get the maximum chance of seeing a variety of wildlife, a lodge may be your best bet. Animals prefer to reside further into the forest and away from towns and people. There are some lodges that are 6-7 hours into the jungle and some much closer. Choose one that works for you depending on how ‘jungl-y’ you’d like to get! (That is not to say a cruise is without wildlife). Because most lodges are eco-friendly, they won’t have generators/electricity running at all times. This means you’ll get to listen to all the amazing sounds of the forest. Give me a call and I’ll tell you about the morning I woke up in an Amazon lodge listening to my first howler monkeys! If flexibility is your best friend, lodges don’t have set departure dates. This way you can work them into any itinerary easily. This also makes it easier to get availability at the lodges of your choice. While we recommend at least 3 nights at a lodge to get a full experience, there is the opportunity to just do 2 nights. Whatever you choose, you can’t go wrong with an Amazon lodge or cruise. If you enjoy the comforts of a hotel and have 3 to 4 nights to dedicate to this massive rainforest, go with a cruise! If you are traveling with a group, there will be excursions for everyone on a cruise. If you enjoy having an authentic Amazon experience with a few fewer comforts but a better chance of seeing wildlife, go with a lodge! Either way, this is an experience that can’t be missed. Looking for more Brazil eco-tour ideas? How about a trip to the Pantanal?

Curious about an Amazon Rainforest Tour / Adventure?

We’re here to help answer any of your questions! Please contact an Expert Travel Consultant. This entry was written by our very own travel consultant Rebecca Deering.

How Do You Get to Antarctica?

The best way to get to Antarctica is by plane or by cruise, typically from the southernmost part of the continent. Depending on the type of Antarctica tour, you can depart from either the southern part of Argentina or Chile. Then come the questions – do you leave from Chile or Argentina? Should you skip the Drake Passage & fly from Punta Arenas? How far is Antarctica from South America? What is the best or easiest way to get there? Read on to learn how to get to Antarctica!

Fly to Ushuaia or Punta Arenas

To begin your journey to Antarctica, you first need to get to Ushuaia, Argentina, or Punta Arenas, Chile. The easiest way to do this is by flight from the capital cities. For example, after a few days on a tour of Buenos Aires or a tour of Santiago, take a flight to either Ushuaia or Punta Arenas.

We usually recommend adding at least a day in either city, so that you can visit some of the attractions they have to offer, for example, a day tour to Tierra del Fuego National Park in Ushuaia, or a city tour in Punta Arenas.

There are other connecting cities, though, for the easiest and best Antarctica trip, we recommend traveling from southern Chile and or Argentina to get to Antarctica.

Get to Antarctica by Cruise

The first and by far the most popular way to get to Antarctica is on a commercial Ushuaia Argentina cruise. These Antarctica cruises offer shore visits, land excursions, boat excursions, and more! This is typically the most cost-effective way to travel. The downfall is that it takes the longest to get there. How far is Antarctica from South America when doing a cruise? Crossing the Drake Passage can take anywhere from 2-4 days depending on the weather.

This is an adventure in its own right, and many people are interested in getting to experience crossing one of the world’s most famous and legendary parts of the ocean. This can only be done with the cruises leaving from Ushuaia towards Antarctica.

The other major advantage of the cruise leaving from Ushuaia is that some of them include other important south Atlantic islands, as the Falklands (Malvinas), South Georgia, and the South Shetland Islands.

Recommended Antarctica Cruise from Argentina

SouthAmerica.travel offers a classic commercial cruise tour to Antarctica titled the Best Antarctica Ushuaia Cruise! This classic cruise takes care of all your worries about how to get to Antarctica by departing directly from Ushuaia, Argentina. Highlights along with this 14-day, 11-day, or 8-days Antarctica cruise include the Beagle Channel & Mackinlay Pass, Drake Passage, South Shetland, the Antarctic Peninsula, and of course Petermann Island, where you will get up close and personal with the gentoo penguins colony. Our cruise tours to the ‘White Continent’ are the best tours in the world because we can offer the highest standard of quality to all the Antarctica tour operators. Our tours include the following.

• Voyage aboard the polar vessel Ushuaia.
• All meals throughout the voyage aboard the ship including snacks, coffee, and tea
• All shore excursions and activities
• Program of lectures by noted naturalists and leadership by experienced expedition staff
• All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges
• All transfers
• English-speaking guides

Reach Antarctica by a Fly Cruise

The second most popular way of how to get to Antarctica is by embarking on a fly-cruise which includes a flight from Punta Arenas, Chile. This short 2-hour flight is the quickest way to Antarctica and embark on your cruise. This is more costly than crossing the Drake but it is the best choice for anyone not used to boats or several days long cruises. Also, it is great for people wanting to include Antarctica as another destination on a comprehensive South America tour.

When researching this topic, one of the key issues can be time because most people want to include other parts of South America in their itinerary.

We know this better than anyone as we plan trips from 7-days to 3 months all through the continent of Antarctica, including Argentina, Patagonia, and Chile. In another blog post on our website, we made a case for skipping the Drake Passage and flying directly to Antarctica.

After flying into Antarctica, you will board a cruise that will visit the area and give you a wide range of experiences ashore.

Pros of a Fly Cruise

• You have more time to explore
• You can avoid boats and the chance of getting seasick!

Cons of a Fly Cruise

• Potential flight delays due to weather
• Cost

Recommended Fly Cruise from Chile

Antarctica XXI is the pioneer company offering Air Cruises in Antarctica. With a variety of itineraries from short Antarctica visits to longer trips including the South Atlantic Islands.

Our team has done multiple trips, both by crossing the Drake and flying. We are always eager to help guests plan their dream trip to the white continent.

Contact Us an Expert Travel Consultant

Because a trip to Antarctica is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, you should weigh your options carefully. We’d love to discuss the best way for you to get there with you! Please contact us to get started. We can also create a custom tour that includes other highlights of South America.  The sky is the limit!

Are you searching for a Packing List for an Antarctica Cruise, but not sure where to start? No problem! I was lucky enough to do a 9-day Polar Circle Air-Cruise in February of 2015, with Antarctica 21, and lucky for you I know what to pack and what to leave at home. We explore everything from a warm Parka to gloves, hats, scarves, sunscreen, binoculars, winter boots, and all the other Antarctica equipment you’ll need to pack an Antarctica tour or cruise.

NOTE: Before packing, check if your cruise provides any equipment!

Some cruise companies will provide parkas and rubber boots. You should also check if the cruise offers laundry service. For those of you that have planned an extensive South America trip and don’t want to lug jackets and boots along with you, there are some companies in Ushuaia that will rent equipment! If you are Visiting Chile and are flying across the Drake Passage or Visiting Argentina and planning an Antarctica Cruise & Antarctica Tour, this Packing List for Antarctica has you covered!

Antarctica Packing List

Clothes & Accessories

One thing is for sure, you need to layer! When you dress in layers, you create pockets of air in each layer of clothing which provides more heat than just wearing 1 heavy layer. With that said, don’t overdo it! If you are too warm and begin to perspire, you will lose body heat quickly, especially while in cold weather conditions. Synthetic fibers like polar fleece and polyester can provide the best insulation, even when wet.

• Waterproof Parka
• Waterproof pants that will fit over multiple layers
• Bathing suit: used for the polar plunge!
• 1 nice outfit: depending on the cruise, you may want to have one fancier outfit.  My cruise was extremely casual and I didn’t feel out of place with a sweatshirt and jeans.
• Pocket or hand warmers
• Sunglasses
• Scarf
• A warm wool hat that covers your ears
• A few pairs of wool socks: your socks may not dry overnight so always have an extra pair
• Thermal pants and long sleeve shirt
• Waterproof rubber boots
• Comfortable clothing to wear on the ship: slip-on shoes are a must
• Waterproof gloves and thin, underlayer (polypropylene) gloves

Travel Tip: The weather in Antarctica is cold. When we went watching on the zodiac we sat still for over an hour. I had to take off my outer gloves in order to take pictures and my hands were freezing! 

Cameras & Gadgets

• Extra memory cards
• Extra camera batteries
• Laptop and pen drive

Travel Tip: Most cruises will not have Wi-Fi, and if they do, it will be expensive and extremely slow. I suggest you bring a laptop and pen drive so that you can share photos with your friends on board. Don’t expect to surf the net!

• Multiple lenses with great zoom capability for all the wildlife
• Waterproof case or bag for your camera
• Binoculars
• Electrical converter and/or adaptor
• Travel alarm clock
• Multiple Cameras!!

Travel Tip:My biggest regret on my Antarctica adventure was that my camera broke on the 2nd day. Always prepare for the worst and pack an extra camera. This way, you won’t miss capturing any of the moments that pass by!

What to pack for your Free Time

If you cross the Drake Passage, you will have a few days of downtime. If you are doing an air- cruise you will have downtime at night before you go to bed. Below is a couple of ideas for things to use during your free time.

• Playing cards
• Kindle, tablet or book
• iPod
• Journal

Toiletries & Medications

Here is where I suggest overpacking. While many ships will have a small store they may not have what you want. If you think you may need something, take it with you!

• Sunscreen
• Lip balm with SPF
• Lotion
• Sanitizing Gel
• Kleenex
• Any other medications that you may need
• Seasickness medication.

Travel Tip: It’s never a bad idea to have seasickness medication while traveling on a ship, especially if you cross the fierce Drake Passage. I highly recommend bringing motion sickness medication on any Antarctica Cruise. 

Bags & Bottles 

• Dry bag or waterproof backpack: great for the excursions and on the zodiacs
• Water bottle
• Plastic bags

Travel Tip: Penguin poop is one of the foulest smelling things you’ll come across. If you have the misfortune of getting this on something, you’ll want a plastic bag. Plastic bags are also handy if your cruise doesn’t offer a laundry service.

Ready for a trip to Antarctica? Contact our team to help you decide which cruise is best for you. In no time, you will be expertly packing your bags and cruising on a trip of a lifetime!

Ushuaia Argentina Travel Guide – Tours, Excursions, & Hotel Recommendations

Ushuaia Argentina in the southernmost city in the World. Many people come here as their disembarkation point for Cruises to Antarctica. Others come to visit as part of a Tour of Patagonia. The city itself is notable for its location, being the the mostl Southerly city in the World it is the point where the South Atlantic, and Pacific Oceans meet as well as being the location where the Andes Mountain Range emerges from the Southern Ocean.  A quaint city, surrounded by natural beauty, Ushuaia has the added romance of sitting at the edge of the World. Here is useful a guide to the city.

Bars and Restaurants in Ushuaia:

1. Dublin Irish Pub – Ushuaia Argentina:

The city of Ushuaia Argentina is home to 70,000 residents and as such, is small and easy to get around. There are some cozy bars and restaurants that specialize in seafood caught in The Southern Ocean. I particularly enjoyed the Dublín Irish Pub. This green tin shack bar with a wooden interior is like something straight out of a Hemingway novel, oozing with old world maritime charm. Enjoy a drink and listen to the stories of those traveling to the great white continent, before you embark on a Patagonia or Antarctica adventure. The bar is conveniently located right in the heart of the city center and you can order from a bar food menu also.

2. Chez Manu – Ushuaia Argentina

For anyone who loves seafood there are two menu items which you simply cannot leave with trying in Ushuaia Argentina. One is the “centolla” King crab and the other is Merluza Negra (Black Antarctic Hake) a delicious sea fish that has a unique and full texture unlike any other fish I have tried. The menu at Chez Manu also includes excellent “Fuegian Lamb” but here I really recommend the crab and merluza negra as the chef’s recipe really brings out the best in both. The restaurant is a little out of town but it is worth taking a taxi here as it is also elevated in and higher are above the main city and offers fantastic views of the Beagle Canal and the city to compliment the fine dining experience.

3. La Estancia Parilla – Ushuaia Argentina

The other must eat item in Ushuaia in the Fuegian Lamb. Argentina is renowned for and prides itself on the quality of its meat and here in Tierra Del Fuego it is no different. Special farming techniques are used to cultivate the lamb and give it a distinct flavor. La Estancia Parilla specializes in grilled lamb where the meat is cooked in the traditional gaucho style. The result is succulent flavorful lamb which is unlike anything you will get at home. The restaurant is located close to the city center and is within walking distance of most central hotels.

Excursions, Day Trips, & Tour Guides in Ushuaia

Ushuaia Argentina has much to offer in terms of outdoor activities, dining, sightseeing, and relaxation.  Below are a few of my favorite tours/cruises in Ushuaia! Take note that you can find a long line of wooden waterfront huts sells tour packages of both the terrestrial and aquatic kind, but it is best to plan your excursions before traveling.

1: Catamaran Cruise on the Beagle Channel – Ushuaia Argentina

No Ushuaia Argentina Travel Guide would be complete without mentioning the half-day catamaran cruise on the beautiful Beagle Chanel. Sailing aboard the Catamaran includes a visit to the Les Eclaireurs lighthouse known as the “lighthouse at the end of the world”. Visit Seal Rock and Martillo Island where visitors can see a colony of adorable Magellanic penguins. This is a perfect way to experience the charming wildlife along the Beagle Channel near Ushuaia. 

2: Ride the End of the World Train Ride – Ushuaia Argentina

The End of The World Train Ride is perfect for showcasing the history of Argentina’s Tierra del Fuego National Park. This old prisoner train has been revamped into an exciting tourist attraction.  The railroad tracks run across lakes, forests, and waterfalls. The train also runs through a “tree cemetery” where you will see the stumps of trees long since cut down by Argentine prisoners in forced labour camps. The train journey ends next to a 19th century prison.

3: Hike in Tierra del Fuego National Park- Ushuaia Argentina

Another undoubted highlight in Ushuaia Argentina is Tierra Del Fuego National Park. Walk among the giant lichen-covered trees of this austral forest. Enjoy clear unpolluted rivers and lakes that flow from glaciers and take the opportunity to absorb the unspoiled surroundings of this far-flung destination.  

Recommended Ushuaia Hotels

After a long day of traveling, there’s nothing better than coming back to a cozy place to stay. Here are my Top 3 Recommended Hotels in Ushuaia, perfect for any couple, family, or solo traveler passing through.

1. Cilene del Faro Suites & Spa – Ushuaia Argentina

Cilene del Faro Suites & Spa is a great 4-star option ideally situated in the heart of Ushuaia. The hotel is very close to the seafront and sits right off the main commerce area putting guests within meters of some of the city’s best restaurants and close to the wharf where tours depart daily.

2. Albatros Hotel – Ushuaia Argentina

Albatros Hotel is also located on the water front of the Beagle Channel and is within walking distance to the Ushuaia Port and nearby shopping mall. The End of the World Museum is a mere 300 m away. Guests can enjoy spa and concierge services daily whilst here.

3. Los Cauquenes – Ushuaia Argentina

The 5-star Los Coquenes Hotel is located just outside the city proper giving it n air of exclusivity. Eleeant in style and sitting on the shores of the Beagle Channel the Los Caquenes hotels offer stunning views if both the sea and the Andes Mountains. Guests can enjoy a top class restaurant and relax in the spa after days spent exploring the natural beauty of Tierra Del Fuego.

Recommended Tours | Ushuaia Argentina

Patagonia Deluxe Tour

The Patagonia Deluxe Tour combines the Stella Australis Cruise, the Explora Lodge, the MarPatag Cruise, and the Eolo Lodge for one incredible adventure. Visit some of the most beautiful national parks in South America including Torres del Paine, Tierra del Fuego & Los Glaciares. Though you’ll be exploring Patagonia by sea, you’ll have ample opportunity for various outdoor excursions. Hiking is the most popular when looking to sightsee in the national parks.  View Tour >> Patagonia Deluxe Tour

Very Best Highlights of Argentina Tour

Discover the most scenic landscapes in Argentina, from the metropolis of Buenos Aires to the busy port of Ushuaia. This tour incorporates a multitude of stops. Encounter the delightful hamlet of Bariloche, known for its excellent ski slopes in the winter and as the gateway to Patagonia. Visit El Calafate and see the world-famous Perito Moreno Glacier in Los Glaciares National Park. And finally, fly to Ushuaia and opt for a scenic excursion aboard the End of the World Train to Tierra del Fuego National Park.  View Tour >> Very Best Highlights of Argentina Tour

Patagonia Australis Cruise

The end of the world is waiting for you and Australis will take you on a journey through it. The Ushuaia to Ushuaia route shows you breathtaking beauty found throughout Patagonia while relaxing aboard an expedition ship designed with comfort and luxury in mind. Begin sailing through the Strait of Magellan and Beagle Channel to explore the wilderness. As you cross the Beagle Channel, take note that a popular excursion here is to opt for a scenic ride on a Catamaran Cruise. Below is a sample of what that Catamaran Cruise entails.  View Tour >> Patagonia Cruises

Get started planning your trip to Ushuaia!

Our travel consultant Tye Rogers writes about his Argentina to Antarctica cruise with Quark Expeditions. Below read about Antarctica shore excursions and ship amenities on this once in a lifetime Antarctica cruise..

We traveled to Antarctica the old fashioned way, by crossing the Drake Passage from Argentina to Antarctica. It is now possible to fly over the passage and then cruise, avoiding the dark and moody waters of the southern seas. But we wanted to grab ahold of distance, and wait for the moment until the world’s largest wilderness area faded into view. And in the meantime, it wasn’t hard to enjoy the sight of half a dozen albatross strafing our stern. We were aboard the Ocean Endeavour, owned by Quark Expeditions, on one of the first departures of the season. Everyone beamed, we knew we were going somewhere rare. Antarctica is the coldest, windiest, driest place on earth, and it has the highest average elevation. I traveled in January which is considered one of the best months to visit Antarctica. It is nearly twice the size of Australia, and in the winter the sea ice expands its size almost twofold. There never were any indigenous peoples dwelling on the 7th continent, and today Antarctica is a symbol of international cooperation. The whaling has almost entirely ended, and where there are people, they are there in pursuit of science. Or simply curiosity. As a travel destination, it’s on most people’s bucket list because…what can possibly compare? ­­ Our expedition leader was an adventurous Alaskan native, who had previously studied philosophy and been an iron worker at the Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station. He explained that as an expedition trip we had a general daily itinerary, but would pivot as necessary to make the most of our weather and wildlife opportunities. This approach came in handy a few days later when somebody spotted a pod of orcas, and a few days after that when our resident bird expert spied an emperor penguin.

Ocean Endeavour – Ship Amenities

Although we crossed the Drake from Argentina to Antarctica, like the heroic explorers a century ago, our onboard experience was very comfortable. As a hotel, the Ocean Endeavour had multiple decks with a variety of areas to spend time in. There were saunas and a full health spa (massage, facial, etc.) on Deck 8, as well as the Meridian Lounge which served as the quiet area for reading. On Deck 7 we often took tea in the Aurora Lounge, Deck 5 was the lobby, and on Deck 4 was the mud room where we suited up before boarding the zodiacs. After making landings and leaving our outerwear in the lockers, staff always had a mug of hot cocoa to hand us. Deck 6 was the main one, and included a pool heated by the ship’s engine, the bar and Nautilus Lounge where scientists and adventurers gave talks and shared stories, the library and Compass Lounge stocked with every polar book one could wish for, the dining area (very popular!), and the Polar Boutique store. Outdoor observation was possible on several decks, and the bow was open a couple times during the week. It was a pleasant surprise to learn the ship’s captain maintained an “open bridge” policy where, most of the time, passengers could see what it takes to pilot a 137m vessel around icebergs and islands.

Shore Excursions

The landings were our favorite part of the voyage, whether it was walking thru chinstrap and gentoo penguin colonies or watching elephant seals groan along the rocky beaches. Some days we passed Adélie penguins porpoising across the wavelets, and others we gazed at tabular icebergs the size of city blocks floating ever so slowly out from the Weddell Sea. The places we visited were varied and endlessly photogenic. The expedition photographer took photos of those silly enough to take the polar plunge (worth it!), and he gave us plenty of tips on how to compose and shoot better images ourselves. Quark also offered adventure activities, such as sea kayaking, cross country skiing and mountaineering. We opted for the stand up paddle boarding and snow camping, a stunning day of fresh air and the super moon looming over Cuverville Island. In the distance we heard some “Antarctic Thunder”, a falling cornice became an avalanche. Then night. At certain points some of us found ourselves waking up at dawn to listen to orchestral music and watch the first light strike the glacial fjords. Indoors, the Ocean Endeavour was brimming with talented and interesting people, and stepping outside presented this unbelievable world, Antarctica, and everything that represented to us. Some people said they wanted to check off a bucket list item, some came for nature photography, and others couldn’t quite put it into words. We re-crossed the Drake Passage and disembarked at the very tip of Argentina in the charming town of Ushuaia. It is known as the “End of the World”, but that is only if you’re arriving from the north. Reflecting on where we had been, it was more like the beginning.

Get started planning your own custom adventure to Antarctica!

Contact us today and let our expert Travel Consultants find the perfect Antarctica Cruise for your travel style.

In a continent as vast as South America, outdoor thrill-seekers will find plenty to explore. Sure, there are nice day hikes, and surfing can be quite good, but some activities defy the norm and take you outside your comfort zone. Here are five of the most unique outdoor adventure tours in South America. I recommend treating yourself to at least one.

1. Death Road – Unique Outdoor Adventure Activities in Bolivia

Not far from La Paz, Bolivia winds one of the world’s most dangerous roads. The Yungas Road, also known as the “Death Road”, was built in the ’30s by Paraguayan prisoners of war to connect the capital with northern Bolivia. Hundreds of people died building it, and many perish every year descending the more dangerous stretches of narrow rock and dirt. Despite the obvious risks, the Death Road attracts travelers who enjoy spectacular views with an adrenaline rush. As a day trip, you can rent a full-suspension mountain bike and start descending from 15,000ft in the high, snow-capped Andes. After the high plateau, riders continue to descend through cloud forests and eventually arrive in the sub-tropical jungle town of Coroico located at less than 4,000ft. Lunch awaits the survivors.

2. Standup Paddleboarding in Antarctica

Who wouldn’t want to experience the seventh continent? Many dream for the chance to visit, but few ever make it. Those who do, generally depart on a 10-day cruise from the southern tip of Argentina. Many cruises, such as Quark and Oceanwide, offer comfortable cabins with educational talks on board as well as outdoor activities upon arrival in Antarctica.

These may include hiking, cross-country skiing, camping, snowshoeing, sea kayaking, and, more recently, stand-up paddleboarding. This is an offshoot of surfing, geared towards a slower more controlled ride. The adrenaline doesn’t come so much from the activity itself as from the environment surrounding you. Imagine floating by an iceberg the size of a city and the shade of sapphire. Penguins rocket beneath you, and as you paddle by the white coast you hear a leopard seal calling from an ice floe. Alone and at sea level is the best way to encounter the grandeur of Antarctica.

3. Hike the Salkantay Trek

High above the potato fields and llamas in the valley, and between the misty peaks of the Andes, is a guide and several porters leading a small group of hikers towards a mythic city. The popularity of Machu Picchu has brought nearly equal fame to the Inca Trail, a multi-day trek through the Incan ruins of the Sacred Valley. While this popular trek is definitely worthwhile, only 200 trekkers are allowed on the trail each day which means travelers must book many months in advance.

The five-day Salkantay Trek provides a convenient alternative, as well as a much more challenging adventure. With fewer tourists along the way, the focus turns naturally to the spectacular views. This is a high-altitude trek one can feel proud of having accomplished, and the reward on that final day is your sunrise view at the stone citadel of Machu Picchu.

4. Bungee Jump in Action Valley

Modern bungee jumping is a relatively recent activity, beginning in the late ’70s. It is often said that bungee jumping is more of an adrenaline thrill than skydiving because the reference point of the ground is always visible. In South America, there are several locations where you can bungee jump, but the best is just outside of Cuzco at a place called Action Valley. There you will step into a small cage with your instructor, who will harness you up as the cage is lifted 400ft above the ground. You have a few moments suspended up there on wires attached to the surrounding hills before they count you down from 3…2…1…and then you take the dive of your life. This is the highest bungee jump on the continent. There is also a climbing wall, and it is possible to do paintballing, there is a bungee slingshot, and paragliding can be arranged as well.

5. Puenting in Baños, Ecuador

Unlike bungee jumping, puenting is arguably more terrifying. The cord is attached to one’s waist rather than their feet, while the other end is fastened to the opposite side of the bridge from where one jumps. The person puenting therefore falls like a pendulum rather than diving and bouncing like a bungee jumper. Baños can be reached in several hours from Quito, Ecuador. It’s a lush, gorgeous little town surrounded by volcanoes and waterfalls and has established itself as the adventure capital of the country.

Along with canyoning, river rafting, and visiting hot springs, those looking to go puenting may jump several times per visit. The bridge sits over 300ft above the Pastaza River. Jumping face first was more of a thrill for me, but leaping backward takes a lot of trust as well!

Get started planning your unique outdoor adventure tour today!

Are there penguins in South America?

Yes! There are a lot of penguins in South America. When travelers hear, “wildlife in South America” it often conjures images of parrots, monkeys, and piranhas in the Amazon, wild alpacas roaming the deserts of Chile, and giant tortoises and iguanas in the Galapagos Islands. Though, for many travelers, a trip to South America isn’t complete without getting close to some adorable penguins. And contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to travel to Antarctica to see them.

Where are the penguins in South America?

From November to March, right after the young have hatched, penguins spend their time onshore with their fuzzy babies. There are plenty of colonies where you can actually walk right alongside these curious, charismatic creatures while learning about local preservation efforts to protect them.

Penguins in Patagonia 

Magellanic Penguins in South America

From the southernmost tip of the continent in both Chilean and Argentine Patagonia, you have the opportunity to get up close and personal with the indigenous Magellanic penguins. From Punta Arenas in Chile Patagonia, you can take a Patagonia cruise to Isla Magdalena to see South American Penguins.

While exploring Ushuaia, Argentina, sail the Beagle Channel to Isla Martillo – on both of these islands you can disembark and spend about an hour waddling around with the hundreds of thousands of penguins. Read more about our Patagonia Wildlife Cruise

Rockhopper Penguin in South America

Go on a short 4-day excursion through Puerto Deseado for a Patagonia Bird watching tour to see South American Penguins!  Here you can see the silly-looking Rockhopper penguin, distinguished by their long bright yellow eyebrow.  The Rockhopper Penguins are the smallest of the crested penguins.  Some people call them the “Bobo Bird Jumper” because they move around by jumping.

Every year from late October through April, they visit the coast of Puerto Deseado in Santa Cruz.  Get up close and personal with the penguin colony and be sure to take plenty of photos.  Be prepared to see about 30 thousand Rockhopper and Magellanic penguins raising their young in the Penguin Island Provincial Reserve. Read more about our Patagonia Bird Watching Tour

Penguins in Chile

Humboldt Penguin in South America

A little further north off the coast of the Peninsula Valdes in Argentina, there is another huge colony of over 1 million penguins at Punta Tombo. Further north, near the Chile Lake District you can visit the mythical, traditional Chiloe Island, where you can see the endangered Humboldt penguin living alongside Magellanic penguins. Even further north, about 300 miles past Santiago, is the Humboldt Penguin National Reserve.

A boat ride through crystal clear, bright blue water will take you to a cluster of three small islands, where along with sea lions and dolphins, you will spot penguins playing along with the rocky shore (but you won’t be able to walk near them onshore here). Only one island here, Isla Damas, allows visitors to walk on the white sands, where you can also snorkel or hike to the highest point of the island for expansive views. Your journey to see South American Penguins awaits! Read more about our Wildlife Tours in Peninsula Valdes

Penguins in the Galapagos

On a Galapagos Island cruise, you can spot the only penguin that lives in tropical climates. If you swim or snorkel off of these islands, you may even see a penguin right in the water with you. This is the only place in the world where you can swim in warm water with a penguin in a bathing suit instead of in frigid waters with a wetsuit. Read more about our Galapagos Islands Cruises

Penguins in Antarctica

Emperor Penguins in South America

For the ultimate Penguin experience, considering going on a cruise to Antarctica and visiting the South Shetland Islands.  This is a haven for wildlife, filled with penguin rookeries and beaches covered with the Antarctic fur seals.  Explore the most remote continent on the planet and discover wildlife like never before.  In Antarctica, you can see Emperor Penguins, Gentoo Penguins, Chinstrap Penguins, Adelie Penguins, and Macaroni Penguins. Read more about our Antarctica Cruises

Start planning your trip to see the Penguins in South America!

Can You Fly to Antarctica?

If you’re planning a trip to Antarctica, you might ask, can you fly to Antarctica? The answer is yes. There are two options. One is to travel by boat through the infamous Drake Passage and the other is to fly to Antarctica Peninsula. In this post, we will discuss how to fly to Antarctica, and overall the best way to travel get there.

If you choose to travel there by boat you will be traveling through the Drake Passage, an open body of water between South America and the South Shetland Islands of Antarctica. This can be a treacherous boat ride due to the unpredictable weather, strong currents and gale-force winds. Cruises leave from the Southernmost tip of Argentina or Chile and at a minimum take 2 days to cross the passage. To get a good idea of what it feels like to cross the Drake Passage, go squeeze yourself into your washing machine, and hit the spin cycle for 2 days straight. Just kidding, don’t do that – just YouTube “The Drake Passage.”

How Can You Fly to Antarctica?

Lucky for you, there are a few Antarctica cruise companies like Antarctica XXI that offer direct flights to Antarctica.  This is by far the best way to travel to Antarctica.  After you fly to Antarctica you can then enjoy a pleasant cruise around the beautiful continent, but don’t take my word for it.  Take a look at the pros and cons of why you should fly to Antarctica.

Pro: Spend More time in Antarctica!

Board your flight from Punta Arenas, Chile, or Ushuaia, Argentina, and in just 2 short hours you are on King George Island, Antarctica! The airplanes generally used is a BAE-146. It looks just like a regular plane except it has high wings that allow you to land on shorter runways. If you fly to Antarctica you will gain 4 days, which means more time to explore the incredible continent. And now you have time to head further south to explore the Polar Circle or go on a Sea Kayaking excursion.

Pro: Avoid Getting Seasick!

Even if you are not prone to getting seasick, jumping into the spin cycle can make anyone queasy. When the waters are rough they suggest that you relax in your cabin, lay down, and try to enjoy a cup of tea – from a cup with a secure lid that is. Instead of spending your day taking in the sights, you’re stuck in bed nauseous. Then once you finally make it to Antarctica you have to turn around and endure the treacherous waters all over again? Leave the Dramamine and patches behind with a smooth 2-hour flight.

Cons: Potential Flight Delays

As with any flight, there can be delays with your flight to Antarctica. The runway is short, so there must be high visibility at the airstrip for landing purposes. While delays are rare, they can happen. But, keep in mind delays can also happen while crossing the Drake Passage if the waters are too rough.  At least with an air-cruise, you’ll be in your hotel waiting for your guide to tell you your flight is ready.

Without a doubt, the best way to travel to Antarctica is by plane. If you fly to Antarctica you will have more time to spend traveling around the beautiful white continent while avoiding discomfort from traveling through rough waters.

Read More on SouthAmerica.travel’s Antarctica Air-Cruise or Contact our Travel Team today and start planning your own unique Antarctica Adventure.