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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
Welcome Aboard the
Magellan Explorer
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.
- • 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.
Travel Curator’s Insights:
SPECIAL OFFER:
Rates:
From $22,378 per person
Policies and protocols provided before you book.
November - February
Ask us for specific dates.
Jan, Feb, Nov, Dec
Hover here for specific dates
Departures:
Trip Sustainability Awards
Conservation
Has won multiple awards for conservation efforts, and partners with 7+ organizations globally.
Waste
740,000 plastic water bottles saved from use per year.
Community
Partnership with the Africa Foundation to facilitate positive empowerment and development of local inhabitants.
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 (See ship details below.)
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 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
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 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.
Please Note: Expedition travel can be full of surprises! While it is our intention of adhere to the itinerary as described, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. On the first day onboard your ship, the Expedition Leader will give an expedition overview outlining what the specific plans are for the trip.
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.
Magellan Explorer
Magellan Explorer is a new and modern expedition vessel custom-built for Antarctic air-cruises to the latest Polar Code specifications. For air-cruises, Magellan Explorer has a capacity for 73 guests accommodated in seven categories of accommodation. 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 ship’s bow, which is accessible to guests to offer proximity to marine wildlife. The ship has a fleet of 10 Zodiac boats that are well suited for disembarking and wildlife watching. The fitness center aboard Magellan Explorer has been designed and built by the professionals at Anytime Fitness, the world’s only fitness company with boutique gyms on all seven continents.
• Capacity: 73 Guests
• Cabins: 37 Cabins
• Specialists: Credentialed Naturalists & Guides
ACHIEVEMENTS
Trip Advisor "Certificate of Excellence" 2019
Chile's "Best Managed Companies Award" 2019
"This ship's operator pioneered the fly/sail approach to Antarctica trips which shortened trip lengths considerably and helped travelers eager to skip the sometimes-rough Drake Passage to have a smoother transit. The Magellan Explorer is their brand new, purpose-built ship with comfortable, 4-star styling and amenities. Her cabins have great bed combinations including kings in some. The education program will be lighter on this ship since there won't be much ship time for lectures. Still the experts are highly credentialed and enthusiastic. The Magellan is a fantastic option for travelers with limited time and a strong desire to set foot on the Antarctic Continent."
Wild Nectar
Life On Board
Deck Plan
Click to enlarge
Questions?
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.
