Antarctica & Rio de Janeiro 15-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrive in Ushuaia

Arrive at Ushuaia International Airport (USH), transfer to your pre-booked hotel.

Take some time to settle in and prepare for your Antarctic adventure.

Explore Ushuaia Downtown

Wander through the streets of Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world.

Visit the port, souvenir shops, and get a feel for this unique frontier town.

Welcome Dinner

Enjoy a delicious dinner featuring Patagonian lamb or fresh seafood at a local restaurant, celebrating the start of your journey.

Try Kaupé or La Tablita for local specialties.

Tierra del Fuego National Park

Explore the stunning landscapes of Tierra del Fuego National Park, with its subpolar forests, lakes, and rugged coastlines.

Hike easy trails and visit the 'End of the World' Post Office.

Entrance fee required. Wear layers and sturdy shoes. Can be visited by bus tour or taxi.

Lunch in Ushuaia

Enjoy a casual lunch back in Ushuaia after your morning exploration.

Beagle Channel Cruise

Take a scenic boat tour on the Beagle Channel, past the Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse, Bird Island, and Sea Lion Island, spotting local wildlife and enjoying panoramic views of the Andes.

Relaxation & Dinner

Enjoy a relaxing evening at your hotel, perhaps using the spa facilities, followed by a light dinner.

Last Minute Shopping / Free Time

Enjoy a leisurely morning, perhaps doing some last-minute souvenir shopping or visiting the Maritime Museum (Museo del Presidio) before preparing for embarkation.

Check cruise specific embarkation details for baggage drop-off and timing.

Pre-Embarkation Lunch

Have a final lunch in Ushuaia before heading to the port for your Antarctic expedition.

Antarctic Expedition Embarkation

Transfer to the port of Ushuaia to embark on your Antarctic expedition vessel.

Settle into your cabin, attend a mandatory safety briefing, and meet your fellow adventurers.

Exact timing varies by cruise operator. Ensure passport and necessary documents are ready.

Sail Away through Beagle Channel

Experience the majestic sail away from Ushuaia, cruising through the scenic Beagle Channel towards the open waters of the Drake Passage.

Enjoy a welcome dinner onboard.

Drake Passage Crossing

Begin your journey across the legendary Drake Passage, known for its dynamic waters.

This is an exciting opportunity for wildlife spotting from the ship's deck.

Lectures & Briefings

Participate in onboard lectures by the expedition team, covering topics like Antarctic geology, wildlife, history, and photography.

Attend briefings on Zodiac operations and responsible tourism.

Albatross & Petrel Spotting

Spend time on the observation decks, scanning for a variety of seabirds, including majestic albatrosses and petrels, which thrive in these southern waters.

Enjoy Ship Amenities

Relax and enjoy the ship's facilities, such as the lounge, library, or perhaps the gym, after a day of educational activities.

Drake Passage Continued

Continue your transit across the Drake Passage.

The expedition team will continue to offer presentations and insights into what awaits you.

Antarctic Environment & Safety Briefing

Attend further lectures focusing on the Antarctic ecosystem, conservation, and detailed briefings about safety protocols for landings, Zodiac operations, and wildlife encounters.

First Antarctic Sightings

As you approach the South Shetland Islands, keep a keen eye out for your first icebergs, tabular bergs, and potentially your first sightings of Antarctic wildlife, like penguins and seals.

Expedition Gear Preparation

Prepare your gear for upcoming landings.

The expedition team will advise on appropriate clothing layers, waterproof outerwear, and footwear.

Ensure you have all required personal gear ready for your first landing tomorrow.

Dinner with Anticipation

Enjoy dinner onboard with fellow passengers, sharing the excitement of nearing the Antarctic continent.

Breakfast on Board

Enjoy a hearty breakfast as the ship navigates towards the first landing site in the South Shetland Islands.

Meals are included as part of your expedition package.

Zodiac Cruise: Aitcho Islands

Morning Zodiac cruise around the Aitcho Islands (part of the South Shetland Islands), known for their large colonies of Gentoo and Chinstrap penguins, along with various seabirds. Keep an eye out for Weddell seals hauled out on the beaches.

Weather and ice conditions permitting, exact landing sites may vary. Dress in multiple warm layers.

Lunch on Board

Return to the ship for a delicious lunch.

Informative Lecture: Antarctic Wildlife

Attend a fascinating lecture by the onboard naturalists about the unique wildlife of the Antarctic Peninsula, covering penguins, seals, and whales.

Great opportunity to learn more about the ecosystem you're experiencing.

Deception Island Exploration

Sail into the caldera of Deception Island, an active volcano.

Explore the abandoned whaling station at Whalers Bay and, for the adventurous, take a polar plunge in the geothermally heated waters.

The unique landscape and history make this a memorable stop. Polar plunge is optional!

Dinner & Evening Briefing

Enjoy dinner followed by a recap of the day's events and a briefing on tomorrow's plans.

Breakfast on Board

Start your day with breakfast overlooking stunning Antarctic scenery.

Shore Landing: Paradise Bay

Explore the iconic Paradise Bay with its breathtaking glaciers, icebergs, and potential whale sightings.

This is often a prime location for encountering humpback whales.

Considered one of the most beautiful places in Antarctica, perfect for photography. Listen for the sound of calving glaciers.

Optional Kayaking Excursion

For those who pre-booked, a chance to kayak among the icebergs and gentle waters of Paradise Bay, offering a unique perspective on the Antarctic landscape.

Requires prior booking and may incur an additional fee. Limited availability.

Lunch on Board

Enjoy lunch while cruising towards the next destination.

Shore Landing: Neko Harbour

One of only two places where passengers can land directly on the Antarctic continent.

Witness active Gentoo penguin colonies and enjoy stunning panoramic views of the surrounding glaciers and mountains.

Feel the unique experience of stepping onto the Antarctic mainland. Watch out for sudden glacier calving!

Dinner & Evening Relaxation

Relax after an adventurous day with dinner and perhaps some stargazing (weather permitting).

Breakfast on Board

Enjoy breakfast before a day of incredible scenery.

Cruise: Lemaire Channel

Sail through the majestic Lemaire Channel, often referred to as 'Kodak Alley' for its incredibly picturesque scenery of towering cliffs and glistening icebergs.

Keep a lookout for whales.

One of the most iconic passages in Antarctica; be sure to have your camera ready! Whale sightings are common here.

Zodiac Cruise: Pleneau Island

A Zodiac cruise around Pleneau Island, known for its 'iceberg graveyard' where massive icebergs drift to rest. You might spot Crabeater seals, Leopard seals, and various bird species.

The sculpted icebergs create a truly ethereal landscape.

Lunch on Board

Lunch on the ship, followed by some leisure time.

Photography Workshop

Join the onboard photographer for a workshop on how to best capture the stunning Antarctic landscapes and wildlife.

Bring your camera and questions for expert tips.

Afternoon Sailing & Observation

Spend the late afternoon on deck, observing the passing scenery, keeping an eye out for wildlife, and enjoying the tranquility of the Antarctic waters.

Great opportunity for independent wildlife spotting and enjoying the polar silence.

Dinner & Documentary Screening

Enjoy dinner followed by a screening of an Antarctic-themed documentary in the lounge.

Breakfast on Board

Enjoy breakfast as the ship continues its journey.

Visit: Port Lockroy

Visit the historic British base of Port Lockroy, now a museum and the southernmost post office in the world.

Observe the resident Gentoo penguin colony and send postcards from Antarctica.

A unique cultural and historical stop. Postcards can be purchased and mailed here (cash only for stamps/souvenirs usually).

Lunch on Board

Return to the ship for a warm lunch.

Zodiac Cruise: Wilhelmina Bay

Explore the iceberg-filled Wilhelmina Bay by Zodiac, a popular feeding ground for humpback whales due to its rich krill concentration.

This is an excellent spot for whale watching.

A fantastic opportunity for close whale encounters. Keep a respectful distance and observe their natural behaviors.

Daily Recap & Farewell Briefing

Gather for a comprehensive recap of the incredible wildlife sightings and experiences so far, along with a briefing on the return journey through the Drake Passage and disembarkation procedures.

An opportunity to share photos and memories with fellow passengers.

Captain's Farewell Dinner

Enjoy a special farewell dinner with the Captain and crew, celebrating an unforgettable expedition to Antarctica.

Often a slightly more formal (but still relaxed) dinner. A chance to thank the crew.

Breakfast on Board

Enjoy breakfast as the ship starts its journey back across the Drake Passage.

Seabird Watching & Ocean Views

Spend the morning on deck or in the observation lounge, watching for a variety of seabirds, including albatrosses and petrels, as they follow the ship across the Drake Passage.

Reflect on your Antarctic adventure.

The Drake Passage is known for its incredible pelagic birdlife. Keep binoculars handy!

Lunch on Board

Lunch on the ship as you continue sailing north.

Expedition Recap Presentation

An expedition staff member will present a slideshow or video summarizing the highlights of your Antarctic journey, often including photos taken by the onboard photographer.

A wonderful way to relive the memories and see moments you might have missed.

Afternoon Leisure & Packing

Enjoy some free time for relaxation, reading, or beginning to pack your belongings as the ship cruises through the Drake Passage.

The crossing can be calm or rough – prepare accordingly. Motion sickness medication is recommended if you are prone to seasickness.

Dinner & Entertainment

Enjoy dinner and possibly some onboard entertainment or a movie as you continue your journey towards Ushuaia.

Disembark Expedition Ship

Disembark from your Antarctic expedition ship at the port of Ushuaia, the 'End of the World'.

Collect your luggage and transfer to your hotel.

Hotel check-in may be flexible for early arrivals.

Explore Ushuaia Center

Take a leisurely walk along San Martin Avenue, the main street of Ushuaia, exploring local shops and enjoying the views of the Beagle Channel.

Look for souvenir shops and local crafts.

Lunch in Ushuaia

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, perhaps trying some Patagonian lamb or king crab.

Ushuaia Maritime Museum

Visit the Maritime Museum and Old Prison, housed in the former Presidio, offering insights into regional history and Antarctic exploration.

Housed in a fascinating building with multiple museums inside.

Farewell Ushuaia Dinner

Enjoy a final dinner in Ushuaia before your journey to Brazil.

Transfer to Ushuaia Airport

Private transfer from your hotel to Ushuaia International Airport (USH) for your flight to Buenos Aires.

Flight to Buenos Aires

Domestic flight from Ushuaia (USH) to Buenos Aires (AEP/EZE).

Buenos Aires Layover & Transfer

Connect between flights in Buenos Aires.

If changing airports (AEP to EZE), allow 1.5-2 hours for transfer via taxi or shuttle.

Flight to Rio de Janeiro

International flight from Buenos Aires (EZE or AEP) to Rio de Janeiro (GIG).

Transfer to Rio Hotel

Transfer from Galeão International Airport (GIG) to your hotel in Rio de Janeiro.

Late Dinner & Relax

Have a late dinner near your hotel and prepare for the Carnival excitement.

Copacabana Beach Morning

Enjoy a relaxed morning at Copacabana Beach.

Soak in the sun, watch the locals, and feel the vibrant energy of Rio.

Grab a refreshing agua de coco (coconut water) from a beach kiosk.

Carnival Street Food Lunch

Experience the informal side of Carnival by trying street food or a casual lunch at a local eatery.

Carnival Preparations & Rest

Return to your hotel to relax, get ready, and perhaps apply some Carnival-themed makeup or accessories for the evening's festivities.

Rio de Janeiro Carnival Sambadrome Parade

Witness the spectacular Special Group samba schools parade at the Sambadrome.

This is the pinnacle of the Rio Carnival, with incredible costumes, floats, and music.

Tickets are essential and must be booked far in advance. Transportation to/from the Sambadrome should be planned. The parade runs late into the night.

Corcovado - Christ the Redeemer

Visit the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Rio de Janeiro.

It's an open-air sanctuary and a symbol of faith and welcome.

Take the Corcovado Train up the mountain for scenic views. Book tickets in advance, especially during Carnival season, to avoid long queues.

Lunch in Ipanema

Enjoy a delicious lunch in the chic Ipanema neighborhood.

Ipanema Beach Relaxation

Spend the afternoon relaxing on the famous Ipanema Beach.

Enjoy the lively atmosphere, beautiful scenery, and perhaps a refreshing dip in the ocean.

Popularized by 'The Girl from Ipanema,' it's great for people-watching. Posto 9 is a well-known section.

Carnival Street Parties (Blocos)

Even after the main parades, the street parties (blocos) continue.

Find a lively bloco in a neighborhood like Ipanema or Leblon for an authentic local Carnival experience.

Check local listings for bloco schedules. Expect large crowds, music, and dancing.

Dinner in Ipanema

Enjoy dinner in Ipanema, reflecting on the day's sights and sounds.

Sugarloaf Mountain Visit

Ride the world-famous cable car to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain for unparalleled 360-degree views of Rio, including Copacabana Beach, Christ the Redeemer, and Guanabara Bay.

Go early to avoid crowds and enjoy the clearer morning views. There are two cable car stages, both offer fantastic vistas.

Lunch in Downtown Rio

Enjoy lunch in the city center area, convenient for your afternoon cultural activities.

Theatro Municipal do Rio de Janeiro

Take a guided tour or simply admire the lavish architecture of this 1909 theater, an exquisite example of Beaux-Arts style.

Check for tour availability.

Tours are often available in Portuguese and English. Check their official website for schedules.

Centro Cultural Banco do Brasil

Explore the Centro Cultural Banco do Brasil, housed in a beautiful Art Deco building, featuring various art exhibitions, cinema, and a library.

Entry is often free for exhibitions, though special events may have a fee. Check current exhibits.

Farewell Dinner in Rio

Enjoy a final dinner in Rio de Janeiro, savoring the flavors of Brazil before your departure.