Highlights

  • Cruise past giant Antarctic icebergs in search of whales, seals and penguins
  • Marvel at the famous spires of Torres del Paine National Park
  • Savour fine wines and gourmet food at Colchagua Valley's exclusive Lapostolle Residence

There's a corner of the globe where tall granite spires reach into the heavens, vineyards grow local grapes nearly unheard of elsewhere, and the intrepid traveller can venture to the world's frozen southern pole. In Chile, discover Torres del Paine National Park on immersive treks and celebrate huaso, or cowboy, culture on horseback, before relaxing in a luxury lodge on the shores of crystalline Lake Sarmiento. Then, as Magellan did so long ago, journey south to Punta Arenas; from there you'll prepare to fly to remote King George Island, the starting point for your expedition cruise to the West Antarctic Peninsula. Sail past colossal icebergs to seek whales, seals and penguins before concluding your travels with a well-earned stay amid the lush vines of central Chile’s Santa Cruz Valley, at the exclusive Lapostolle Residence and its accompanying winery.


Day 1

Depart the UK

Begin your holiday in style with premium lounge access at the airport to relax ahead of your overnight flight to Chile's capital Santiago.


Day 2

Arrive in energetic Santiago, Chile

After your overnight flight from the UK you’ll arrive in Chile’s capital, where a private transfer will bring you to your luxury hotel in the city's Lastarria neighbourhood. Take time to relax and recover from your flight as you soak up the views of St Cristobal Hill from the stunning rooftop bar, or perhaps head out into the city to experience the faded glamour of its colonial-era architecture set against a backdrop of Andean mountain peaks.

For the capital’s best evening entertainment, Lastarria is packed with lively local bars, restaurants and theatres – their deep local identity meant these few square blocks were declared a Zona Típica in 1997.

Church in Santiago

Church in Santiago

The Singular, Santiago

The Singular, Santiago


Days 3 – 5

Explore the vast Torres del Paine National Park

After a private transfer, fly south to Punta Arenas to begin your scenic journey to the UNESCO-listed Torres del Paine National Park. Encompassing 2,400 square kilometres, the park is home to icy clear lakes and fjords, glaciers, deep forests and the iconic granite pillars that give the park its name. Over the next three days, give yourself over to the pure adventure of exploring with guided treks, cycle tours and horseback rides that take you to within touching distance of the signature towers.

You'll be based at the Tierra Patagonia, whose luxurious lakeside curves frame gourmet dining experiences and indulgent spa treatments alike. 

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included

Torres del Paine National Park, Patagonia, Chile

Torres del Paine National Park, Patagonia, Chile


Day 6

Follow Magellan's footsteps in Punta Arenas

Return south by private car across the open grasslands of the Patagonian steppe to Punta Arenas, where you might want to pay homage to the legendary explorer Ferdinand Magellan – if you kiss his statue, locals say you'll return to the city again someday.

Rest in Punta Arenas before embarking on your Antarctic Cruise – in the afternoon, a briefing will prepare you for the days ahead before you settle down to dinner with your fellow explorers.

Stay: Cabo de Hornos (or similar)

Breakfast & Dinner included

Punta Arenas in Chile

Punta Arenas Waterfront


Days 7 – 11

Take to the air and the sea in search of adventure in Antarctica

Board a two-hour flight over Cape Horn and the Drake Passage to King George Island. Part of the South Shetland Islands, and home to several important research stations, this remote outpost provides your first glimpse of life in Antarctica. Over the next four days you’ll traverse the West Antarctic Peninsula aboard your expedition vessel, sailing through frozen fjords and past towering icebergs in search of sea birds, penguins, seals and whales. More a boutique-style wilderness adventure than a traditional cruise, you'll have privileged access to remote corners of the Antarctic Pensinula that larger ships are simply unable to reach.

While the exact itinerary changes with each expedition, you'll explore several spots that offer the best possible overview of the vast and varied Antarctic wilderness and wildlife. Your voyage may include visits to sites in the South Shetland Islands, the Antarctic Sound, the Gerlache Strait, and the Penola Strait.

Stay: Ocean Nova (or Magellan Explorer)

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included

Gentoo Penguins on Greenwich Island

Gentoo Penguins on Greenwich Island

Henryk Arctowski Polish Antarctic Station, King George Island in Antarctica

Henryk Arctowski Polish Antarctic Station, King George Island

Chinstrap Penguins, Antarctica

Chinstrap Penguins, Antarctica


Day 12

Further exploration in Punta Arenas

Arrive back in Punta Arenas this morning after a flight back from King George Island. The rest of the day is free to explore the town, or simply relax after your adventures at sea.

Breakfast included

Punta Arenas & Magellan Strait

Punta Arenas & Magellan Strait

Magellanic penguins on Magdalena Island (off Punta Arenas)

Magellanic penguins on Magdalena Island (off Punta Arenas)


Days 13 – 14

Savour the vintages in verdant Colchagua Valley

Fly north to Santiago and enjoy a private transfer to Colchagua Valley in Chile’s central wine region. Days whiled away in the luxurious surrounds of the Lapostolle Residence – founded by the Marnier Lapostolle family, of Grand Marnier fame – are the perfect antidote to life in windswept Antarctica. A member of Chile's first winery association, your hotel is also a working vineyard, providing you with the opportunity to savour some of the country's most fragrant pinot noir, crisp sauvignon blanc and feisty local carmenère.

Enjoy an included private tour and tasting at the Clos Apalta Winery, featuring a visit to the owners' private wine cellar, and similar private tours at other local wineries if you choose. Cycle through the vineyards and go for a forest hike on other included excursions that highlights the lush countryside.

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included

Casa Lapostolle, Colchagua Valley

Casa Lapostolle, Colchagua Valley


Days 15 – 16

Depart Santiago for the UK

After a leisurely morning at your hotel, enjoy a private transfer back to Santiago in time for your overnight flight home. 

Breakfast included


About the itinerary

"This must be the most comfortable way to explore Antarctica! Save days of sailing across the Beagle Channel by enjoying a short return flight to the Antarctic Peninsula where your expedition vessel awaits. The best way to spend the additional time gained is by exploring Torres del Paine National Park at the start and relaxing in the winelands at the end of your trip. Stay at my favourite Chilean hotel, the luxurious Tierra Patagonia, and at Lapostolle Residence, one of the most exclusive and relaxing accommodations in the wine region"

Katrin Rummer

Destination Specialist

Pricing information

Guide price from £17,655 pp incl. flights

Low Season from: £17,655 pp
High Season from: £19,725 pp

Includes:

  • Complimentary UK airport lounge access
  • All return international and domestic flights
  • Private transfers
  • 1 night accommodation in a 4* (Superior) and 1 night accommodation in a 5* (Deluxe) hotel on a B&B basis
  • 6 nights accommodation in 5* (Deluxe) lodges on a full-board basis
  • 5 nights boutique Antarctica cruise on a full-board basis
  • Private tour & tasting at Clos Apalta Winery, shared winery tour in the Apalta Valley and 1 hour massage per stay at Lapostolle Residence
  • Shared excursions in Antarctica
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