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An Antarctica and Lake District Adventure
An unusual combination of destinations, this itinerary offers the peace and deep nature of the Chilean Lake District plus a fly/sail Antarctica adventure. Two fantastic experiences in one trip!
SPECIAL OFFER
9.0*
ECO SCORE
73
PASSENGERS
12
DAYS
3/5
ACTIVITY LEVEL
Antarctica: Drink It In
Immerse yourself in this 12-day bucket list itinerary that takes you to the remote, breathtaking beauty of Antarctica and the spectacular natural surrounds of the Lake District in Chile. Your journey begins briefly in the vibrant metropolis of Santiago, and continues on the luxury Magellan Explorer, discovering a land of glaciers, ice and startling beauty. Be captivated each day as you sail along ice-filled fjords and among spectacular icebergs, while enjoying the company of seabirds, penguins, seals and whales. Your journey culminates at Vira Vira situated in the adventure filled hub of Pucón. Dive into water and land experiences surrounding the Villarrica Volcano, farm-to-table dining, interactions with the indigenous Mapuche community and a collection of 39 activities and experiences. An unforgettable journey awaits.
Travel Curator’s Insights:
- • Since you're traveling to South America for Antarctica, combine two extraordinary destinations in one.
• Skip the sometimes-rough Drake Passage with round-trip flights to King George island to meet your brand-new ship.
• Enjoy three days of active (or not) R&R in the picturesque Araucanía region of Chile’s Lake District at this operator's stylish lodge.
SPECIAL OFFER
Rates:
From $29,135 per person
Policies and protocols provided before you book.
January through March offers peak wildlife activity in Antarctica with warmer temperatures, while the Lakes District enjoys summer, making it ideal for outdoor adventures and stunning natural beauty.
Inquire for specific dates.
Jan. – March;
Hover here for more information.
Departures:
Trip Sustainability Awards
CARBON
Fantastic advances in minimizing carbon footprints at locations.
ENERGY
On the East African Energy Renewal Board
EDUCATION
Runs local educational facilities for children.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Santiago, Chile
Upon arrival at Santiago’s International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by a member of the &BEYOND team. They will assist you through passport control and baggage claim to your waiting vehicle and drive you to The Singular Santiago. The Chilean capital is today a modern, sprawling, and vibrant metropolis that is flanked by a mountain range on both sides. It is here that you can enjoy a series of tours that range from historical and cultural explorations to specific excursions centered on food, architecture, and art.
Accommodation: The Singular Santiago
The Singular Santiago: Situated in the bohemian district of Lastarria, The Singular Santiago embraces the artistic heart of this iconic neighborhood, blending the early 20th century style of its surroundings with a touch of neoclassical French architecture. An innovative homage to Santiago’s history and culture, it is an alluring blend of classical and contemporary, offering modern comforts while exuding the charm of a bygone era. The interior of the hotel is a tribute to the grand palaces of long-ago, with tasteful touches, rich wood, supple leather and soft lighting giving a warm and welcoming glow to each of its 62 rooms, as well as the Singular Suite.
Day 2: Exploring Punta Arenas
After your breakfast you will be driven to the airport for your domestic flight to Punta Arenas. Upon arrival to one of the most the southern cities in the world, you will be welcomed by your ship's staff and chauffeured to your hotel. Enjoy the city’s charms, history and tax-free shopping and visit the Mayorino Borgatello Salesian Museum, the Shepherds Monument, the Patagonia Institute (a research center for the history and the resources), and the Nao Victoria Museum where you can view a full-size replica of the first ship to circumnavigate the world, Ferdinand Magellan’s Nao Victoria. Attend the exciting briefing that provides important information about your voyage and gather for a welcome dinner and meet your fellow adventurers while enjoying a typical regional menu.
Accommodation: Hotel Cabo De Hornos
Hotel Cabo De Hornos: Located between the Strait of Magellan and the city’s main square, in the heart of Punta Arenas, is the stylish Hotel Cabo de Hornos. Dine on delectable dishes at the Hotel Cabo de Hornos Restaurant sprawled on the Punta Arenas at Plaza de Armas Muñoz Gamero square or at a variety of restaurants in the city each serving delicious cuisine and superb wines.
Day 3: Your Voyage Across the Ice
Your Antarctica adventure begins with a two-hour flight from Punta Arenas to King George Island, in the South Shetland Islands. As you exit the airplane, the clear Antarctica air fills your lungs for the first time. The 2-km (1.25-mi) walk to the shore, where you board a Zodiac to embark your expedition vessel, takes you through Chile’s Frei Station and Russia’s Bellingshausen Station.
Accommodation: Magellan Explorer
Magellan Explorer: The magnificent Magellan Explorer is a new and modern expedition vessel, custom-built for Antarctic cruises. This expedition operates with a single flight for each departure, mean a quicker boarding process and the opportunity for guests to embark on an optional half-day excursion when arriving in the afternoon. Stylish and first-class, it was built for a capacity of just 73 guests. Choose your accommodation from seven categories of cabins, including dedicated single cabins. All cabins, except Porthole cabins, feature private balconies. All double cabins except two have two twin beds that can be configured as one king-size bed. Most cabins have two twin beds that can be configured as one queen-size bed. All cabins feature a wardrobe, individually controlled heating system, a sitting area, and a private bathroom with a shower and heated floors.
The ship features a glass-enclosed observation lounge and presentation room with state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment, a spacious and stylish dining room, a well-stocked bar, a library, a meeting room, a gym, a sauna, and a medical clinic. The forward-facing observation deck leads to the bow of the ship, which is accessible to guests offering excellent viewing of marine wildlife. Hop off the ship on one of 10 Zodiac boats, ideal for disembarking and wildlife watching.
Day 4-7: Magellan Explorer journey
Sail along ice-filled fjords and among spectacular icebergs, while enjoying the company of seabirds, penguins, seals and whales. Disembark by Zodiac and explore the landscape together with expert polar guides. Visit Anvers Island and soak up the spectacular views and spot a variety of Antarctic wildlife. Be enchanted by the stunning Lemaire Channel, world renowned for its breathtaking, otherworldly scenery.
Cruise down the Gerlache Strait, a sprawling waterway, known for its surreal beauty. The stark scenery features distant snow-capped mountains, spiky blue icebergs, and remarkably impressive glacial landscapes. Watch penguins waddling and sliding on vast sheets of ice and see the abandoned Norwegian ghost ship in Gouvernoren Harbour. Explore Deception Island, the caldera of an active volcano and look forward to an array of activities including taking a relaxing soak in the thermal waters of the island, exploring the beautiful Port Foster and spotting chinstrap penguins.
Accommodation: Magellan Explorer
Day 8: Bid Farewell to Antarctica
Return to King George Island and bid farewell to Antarctica before boarding the flight back to Punta Arenas. Upon arrival, you will be driven to your hotel for the night.
Accommodation: Hotel Cabo De Hornos
Day 9: Arrival at &BEYOND Vira Vira
After your breakfast you will be driven to Punta Arenas Airport for your flight to Puerto Montt. Upon arrival you will be transferred directly to the lodge (approximately 4hr 30mins). In the afternoon, an activity will be provided by the hotel, giving you your first taste of the area.
Located in the picturesque Araucanía region of Chile’s Lake District, homeland of the courageous Mapuche people, is the spectacular &Beyond Vira Vira. Dramatic landscapes of breathtaking glacial lakes mirror the snowy tips of nearby volcanoes, while within the rainforests gracing the surrounding national parks, evergreen Araucaria araucana (monkey puzzle) trees, some over 1,000 years old, stand tall. Immersed on an expansive, forested estate with 822 m (2,696 ft) of river frontage and breathtaking views of the snow-capped Villarica Volcano, this magnificent wooden lodge is themed in beauty. Enormous windows frame exquisite outlooks, while vibrant wall tapestries, hand-woven textiles and other traditional artefacts colour the interior décor. Signature features include a modern working farm, organic farm-to-table vegetable garden, on-site boutique cheese factory and two outdoor hot tubs.
Accommodation: Vira Vira
Vira Vira: The area is a traveler’s dream when it comes to adventures and choice of activities. The many surrounding natural parks, the majestic Volcano Villarrica with its unbelievable views, water sports, horseback riding, and trekking in the foothills of the Andes, are a vital part of the experience at Vira Vira. You are encouraged to explore a new adventure or experience every day, with the aim of understanding the mystic ambience of these ancient Mapuche territories. The guides at Vira Vira are passionate about their work, and about the excursions on offer.
Day 10-11: Vira Vira - An Adventure Playground
Be spoilt for choice with myriad adventures hosted by knowledgeable and engaging guides at Vira Vira, including horseback riding, trekking, fly fishing, whitewater rafting, kayaking, skiing, and scenic helicopter flights. The list is seemingly endless with fly fishing, mountain biking, and a variety of water sports. All excursions are specifically tailored according to your interests and fitness levels.
Dine on sublime cuisine with the ‘farm-to-table’ concept of producing everything required for the award-winning restaurant at Vira Vira.
Gain insight into the fascinating local Mapuche people. Gaze up at the magnificent blanket of stars whilst relaxing in one of the two lodge hot tubs, enjoy wellness retreats, therapies and massages in the spa, and balance your chakras with daily yoga classes.
Accommodation: Vira Vira
Day 12: Departure
This morning after breakfast, you will be driven to Temuco Airport for your flight to Santiago. Wave a fond farewell as your adventure comes to an end and you depart on your outbound flight.
Hotel Note: The names of hotels mentioned in this proposal only indicate that rates have been based on usage of these hotels. It is not to be construed that accommodation is confirmed at these hotels until and unless we convey the confirmations to you on receipt of your acceptance. However, in the event of any of the above-mentioned hotels not becoming available at the time of initiating the reservations, we shall book alternate accommodation at a similar or next best available hotel and shall pass on the difference of rates (supplement/reduction whatever applicable) to you.
Rates
Questions?
I've sent over 1000 people to Antarctica, and I just love this unique itinerary combination. One day you'll find yourself deeply at peace in the Lemaire Channel in Antarctica and the next you'll be blissfully river rafting in Chile. So fun!
Joy Martinello, Founder
Questions?
What’s Included & Cancellation Policy:
WHAT'S INCLUDED
All nights of accommodation mentioned in the program; Transportation in the best available vehicles; Tours as mentioned in the program; with English speaking local guides; Meals as indicated in the program; Taxes included, where applicable.
NOT INCLUDED
International Airfare / Airport taxes; Domestic air tickets (quoted separately); Early check-in or late check-out charges; Items of personal nature like laundry, phone calls, etc.; Any video/still camera fee during the trip; Gratuities; Drinks; Excess baggage; Travel Insurance
Visa or reciprocity fee expenses.
