Embark on an unforgettable South American adventure! Begin in the vibrant city of Rio de Janeiro, where you'll visit iconic landmarks like Corcovado and Santa Teresa. Marvel at the breathtaking views from Sugarloaf Mountain before jetting off to Iguazu Falls for a mesmerizing Brazilian side tour followed by an exploration of the Argentinean side. Next stop: Buenos Aires, where you'll dive into the cultural richness of San Telmo and La Boca, indulge in a delectable dinner, and be swept away by a captivating Tango show. Explore the charm of Recoleta and Palermo before your journey takes a dramatic turn – fly to Ushuaia to embark on an expedition cruise to the Antarctic Peninsula. Cross the infamous Drake Passage, spend six incredible days exploring the pristine landscapes of Antarctica, and return via the Drake Passage to Ushuaia. Conclude your extraordinary journey with a flight back to Buenos Aires, where you bid farewell to this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Itinerary Highlights
- Tick off your bucket list and sail to Antarctica with an extra day in the Peninsula!
- Explore vibrant Rio de Janeiro and the city of tango, Buenos Aires
- Uncover the awe-inspiring beauty of Iguazu Falls
- Exceptional value with flights, land arrangements and your cruise included
Itinerary in Brief
- Day 1: Arrive in Rio de Janeiro and check-in to your hotel
- Day 2: Corcovado & Santa Teresa
- Day 3: Sugarloaf Mountain
- Day 4: Fly to Iguazu Falls & Tour Brazilian Side
- Day 5: Argentinean side of the falls
- Day 6: Fly to Buenos Aires
- Day 7: San Telmo & La Boca City Tour, Dinner & Tango Show
- Day 8: Recoleta & Palermo City Tour
- Day 9: Buenos Aires free day
- Day 10: Fly to Ushuaia and embark ship
- Day 11-12: Cross the Drake Passage
- Day 13-18: Explore the Antarctic Peninsula
- Day 19-20: Return to Ushuaia via the Drake Passage
- Day 21: Fly back to Buenos Aires for your departure flight
- Upgrade your Antarctica cruise cabin to a balcony cabin for only AUD3,375pp!
- Upgrade your accommodation in Buenos Aires to a 5 star hotel for only AUD1,050pp!
- Add a few days exploring the breathtaking scenery of Patagonia
- Add a stopover in the spectacular Lakes District of Chile and Argentina
- Enjoy a cruise through the Chilean Fjords prior to Antarctica
Travelling with Eclipse
Peace of Mind
- Eclipse Travel is Australian owned and run, and an ATAS accredited travel agent.
- 24/7 emergency numbers and local contacts provided for support while you’re abroad.
- We provide all the information you need to organise your visas and vaccinations, making travel preparation stress-free.
- No currency surcharges. Once your deposit is paid, your price is guaranteed.
Specialists
- Our consultants are true destination experts, with firsthand experience and extensive travel in the regions we offer.
- Expect quick, professional responses and dedicated service from our knowledgeable team.
- We conduct regular checks on destinations, hotels, and services to ensure quality for every trip.
Authentic Travel
- Tailor-made itineraries designed around your unique requirements.
- Freedom to select your preferred style and standard of accommodation.
- Unique itineraries that take you beyond the major highlights, immersing you in each location.
- Committed to responsible travel: we reinvest in the environment and local communities across our destinations.
Day 1 - Rio de Janeiro: Fly to Rio de Janeiro
Fly to Rio de Janeiro
On arrival at the airport you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel.
Golden beaches and lush mountains, samba-fueled nightlife and spectacular football matches, Rio is sure to be one of the highlights of your South American adventure. This evening you are at your leisure. We recommend trying a local churrasco (Brazilian BBQ) for dinner.
Day 2 - Rio de Janeiro: Corcovado tour & Santa Teresa
Corcovado tour & Santa Teresa
Leave the hotel in the direction of the Cosme Velho neighborhood to board the train, which will take us up the beautiful mountainside before arriving at the feet of Christ the Redeemer, one of the seven "New Wonders of the World," located 2,300ft above sea level. There will be available time here to enjoy the most famous panoramic view of Rio de Janeiro, also known as the "Marvelous City."
From here, drive to the tram station to embark on a tour through Santa Teresa, a traditional neighborhood located high up on the city's hills, overlooking downtown and Guanabara Bay. Home to several Twentieth-century mansions, cultural houses, galleries, and gourmet restaurants, Santa Teresa's charming cobbled streets are also a haven for local artists and intellectuals.
Next, stop by Ruins Park ('Parque das Ruínas') to enjoy a spectacular view of Rio de Janeiro. Afterward, the Chácara do Céu Museum has a fascinating Brazilian and European art collection, highlighting Portinari, Di Cavalcanti, Matisse, and Modigliani.
The tour continues to Selaron staircase and Largo do Guimarães, considered the heart of the neighbourhood, with several bars and restaurants. After this tour, guests will certainly feel as though they know a little more about the history and culture of Rio de Janeiro.
Duration: approximately 6 hours.
Days of operation of Museums and Parks:
- Chacara do Ceu Museum from Wednesdays to Mondays, between 12 pm and 5 pm. Closed on Jan 01st, Dec 25th, and 31st.
- Ruins Park from Tuesdays to Sundays, between 9 am and 6 pm.
Breakfast included.
Day 3 - Rio de Janeiro: Half Day Sugar Loaf Mountain
Half Day Sugar Loaf Mountain
Over a million tourists every year visit the world famous Pão de Açúcar (Sugarloaf Mountain), which has become an iconic symbol of the city of Rio de Janeiro. Rising up from a small peninsula at the entrance of Guanabara Bay, its name is said to refer to its resemblance to the traditional shape of concentrated, refined sugarloaf. A cable car takes passengers to the top of Urca Hill, which rises 215 metres above sea level and offers spectacular views of the entire bay and its islands. From Urca Hill, passengers continue in a second cable car to the top of Sugarloaf, which rises 395 metres above sea level and offers a 360-degree view of the entire city, including Botafogo and Copacabana Beaches, Corcovado and downtown Rio.
Breakfast included.
Day 4 - Rio de Janeiro: Depart Rio
Depart Rio
Our representative will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to the airport.
Arrival into Foz do Iguazu (Brazil)
On arrival at the airport you will be met by our representative and transferred to the falls.
Brazilian Iguaçu Falls Tour
Upon arrival at the airport you will be met by our representative and taken on your tour of the Brazilian side of the falls. Here, you'll watch as 14 separate waterfalls drop with such force that a tall cloud of mist stays permanently suspended overhead. Great photo opportunities abound, however, raincoats are highly advisable!
At the conclusion of the tour you will be transferred to your hotel.
Breakfast included.
Day 5 - Puerto Iguazú
Argentinean Falls Tour
In the morning you'll be picked up from your hotel and transferred to Iguazu National Park. From the entrance, a small train will take you on a tour of the park. On the first of two stops you'll follow pathways to the top of the Cataratas (“The Falls”) where you'll have a spectacular view of the falls and their surrounding scenery including an abundance of orchids, colourful birds and other native wildlife. The second stop occurs at La Garganta del Diablo (“The Devil's Throat”), the largest fall in the park and also the highlight of the tour. A suspended platform at the brink of the fall allows for a startlingly close view of this breathtaking natural wonder.
At the end of the tour you will be taken back to your hotel.
*For those who want a little more adventure, we recommend the Great Adventure Boat Tour, which enables you to gain a different perspective as you cruise on a motorboat underneath the falls.
Breakfast included.
Day 6 - Puerto Iguazú: Arrive in Buenos Aires
Depart Puerto Iguazú
Our representative will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to the airport.
Arrive in Buenos Aires
On arrival at the airport you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel.
Buenos Aires, capital of the Republic of Argentina and the country's largest city, is undeniably one of Latin America's hottest destinations. Located on the shores of the Rio de la Plata, the city's combination of European architecture and the passion of its people – the porteños (people of the port) – work together to create a colourful and dynamic modern city.
Breakfast included.
Day 7 - Buenos Aires: San Telmo and La Boca City Tour / Dinner & Tango Show
San Telmo and La Boca City Tour
This morning's excursion will introduce you to the magic of the Argentine capital. After being picked up from your hotel we start with a visit of 'San Telmo', the oldest barrio (neighbourhood) of Buenos Aires which is famous for its historic architecture, tango parlours and antique shops. We take our time and wander through the cobblestone streets learning about the history of the area and seeing its sights including its impressive old churches and its abundance of colourful street art.
We leave San Telmo and the tour continues past the many architectural highlights of Buenos Aires including the Palace of Justice, the Argentine National Congress building, the 'Cabildo (old town hall) and the presidential palace 'Casa Rosada' (pink house).
Next we visit ‘La Boca', the most picturesque of all neighbourhoods of Buenos Aires. This extravagant zone is completely different to the old and to the modern Buenos Aires and romantic stories tell us that tango was born in this working class area. We wander its famous street “Caminito” where you will have the chance to view the spectacle of impromptu tango dancing, street performers and have the chance to buy some local handicrafts.
On our way back to your hotel we pass through the newly restored Puerto Madero area where you can choose to be dropped off at for a nice meal by the waterfront. The remainder of the afternoon is at your leisure with the chance to visit some of Buenos Aires' many great museums or do some shopping.
Dinner & Tango Show
Tango expresses the heart and spirit of Argentina and no visit to Buenos Aires would be complete without it. This evening you will be picked up from your hotel and taken to La Ventana where you will experience the intimacy of this dance in equally intimate surrounds while you indulge in delicious Argentinean cuisine. At the end of the show you will be taken back to your hotel.
*Before the show you have the option of arriving before the others and taking a short tango lesson with a professional dancer or a wine tasting. This comes at an additional cost but if you would like to book either of these please let your consultant know.
You will be picked up from your hotel and taken back at the end of the tour along other passengers. We suggest to upgrade to a private transfer as the pick ups and drop offs could take a considerable time.
Breakfast and Dinner included.
Day 8 - Buenos Aires: Recoleta & Palermo City Tour
Recoleta & Palermo City Tour
This morning you will further discover what makes Buenos Aires great as we explore its better known and sophisticated districts; Palermo and Recoleta. We start with a drive through Recoleta with its open green spaces mixed in with elegant boutique shopping, cafés, embassies and impressive architecture. We visit such landmarks as the Pilar Church and Evita Monument before taking a short walk through the Recoleta cemetery where Evita's tomb can be found.
We continue on to Palermo which is Buenos Aires' largest neighbourhood, and also its trendiest. Here you will walk the streets which are full of beautiful parks, hip boutique hotels, chic restaurants and bars, and high fashion stores. Throughout the morning your knowledgeable guide will give you an insight into local life and excellent local cuisine and on completion of the tour you will have the option of being dropped off at an excellent restaurant for lunch or being taken back to your hotel.
* Please note entry to Recoleta Cemetery is an additional cost for foreign visitors. Entry during the tour is optional.
Breakfast included.
Day 9 - 21 - Buenos Aires: Hotel to Hotel Transfer / Antarctic Peninsula in Depth
Hotel to Hotel Transfer
You will be transferred from your hotel in Buenos Aires to your next hotel in the same city.
Antarctic Peninsula in Depth
Embrace the best of Antarctica and experience the unique flora and fauna of The South Shetland Islands on this life-changing voyage. Test your mettle as you cross the notorious Drake Passage to reach the world’s most beautiful ice-filled waters, where magnificent icebergs creak, and breaching minke and humpback whales swim gracefully. Breathe in icy air as you cross the southern seas, and capture captivating memories that will last a lifetime.
Day 1: Buenos Aires
You will be met by a cruise representative on arrival at your hotel in Buenos Aires and updated on the schedule for the following day. The evening is free for you to explore.
Day 2: Fly to Ushuaia and Embark
After an early breakfast you will transfer to the airport for your flight to Ushuaia. On arrival you will be transferred to the ship for embarkation.
Nestled in the foothills of the snow-capped Martial Range, Ushuaia’s colourful streets and mismatched buildings cascade from the imposing mountains before coming to an abrupt halt at the shores of the Beagle Channel. As one of the world’s southernmost cities, Ushuaia carries its ‘end of the world’ reputation well. The moody weather and dramatic surroundings certainly help. Board your boutique ship before departing for your journey through one of the most captivating wilderness regions of the world.
Breakfast and Dinner included.
Day 3 to 5: Day at Sea
Spend your day at sea enjoying the facilities available onboard. Head to the sauna, get in a workout in the state-of-the-art gym or relax in the hot tub while taking in incredible views along the way. If you prefer to learn a little more about your surroundings, listen to an informative talk or have a chat with one of our knowledgeable experts.
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.
Day 6 to 10: Antarctic Peninsula
Among captivating glaciers, majestic icebergs and snowy islands, the Antarctic Peninsula is where most visitors to the White Continent live their Antarctica dream. It's the most accessible part, with scientific bases and incredible scenery, like the photogenic Lemaire Channel. Shore excursions might include Petermann Island, where among Adelie penguins, blue-eyed shags and skuas, huge, lumbering elephant seals haul out.
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.
Day 11 and 12: Day at Sea
Sea days are rarely dull. Take the time to sit back and let the world go by. The ship’s observation decks provide stunning views of the passing ocean. A day at sea gives you the opportunity to mingle with other passengers and share your experiences of this incredible trip or head to our library which is stocked full of reference books. Get an expert’s view in one of our on-board lectures or perhaps perfect your photography skills with invaluable advice from our onboard professional photographers.
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.
Day 13: Ushuaia
Nestled in the foothills of the snow-capped Martial Range, Ushuaia’s colourful streets and mismatched buildings cascade from the imposing mountains before coming to an abrupt halt at the shores of the Beagle Channel. As one of the world’s southernmost cities, Ushuaia carries its ‘end of the world’ reputation well. The moody weather and dramatic surroundings certainly help. Board your boutique ship before departing for your journey through one of the most captivating wilderness regions of the world.
After breakfast you will disembark and transfer to the airport for your flight to Buenos Aires.
Breakfast included.
- Day 1 - Fly to Rio de Janeiro
- Day 2 - Corcovado tour & Santa Teresa
- Day 3 - Half Day Sugar Loaf Mountain
- Day 4 - Depart Rio
- Day 5 - Puerto Iguazú
- Day 6 - Arrive in Buenos Aires
- Day 7 - San Telmo and La Boca City Tour / Dinner & Tango Show
- Day 8 - Recoleta & Palermo City Tour
- Day 9 - 21 - Hotel to Hotel Transfer / Antarctic Peninsula in Depth
Departs 22 Feb 2025
Season | Type | From | Special Offer |
---|---|---|---|
22 Feb 2025 - 14 Mar 2025 | AUD$15064pp | ||
Package price | AUD$15064pp | Contact us |
**Prices are per person based on twin / shared accommodation.
**Single supplements may apply
Package price
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil - Porto Bay Hotel
Puerto Iguazú, Argentina - Falls Iguazu Hotel & Spa
Buenos Aires, Argentina - Eurobuilding Hotel
Antarctic Peninsula, Antarctica - SH Vega
Whats included?
- Internal airfares
- Cruise on-board SH Vega on a double/ twin share basis inclusive of shore excursions, all meals, drinks including selected alcoholic beverages, expedition parka and use of rubber boots
- Accommodation with private facilities
- Transfers
- Entrance fees
- English-speaking guided tours
- Meals as specified
What’s not included?
- International airfares
- Arrival/departure taxes or reciprocity fees, hotel city taxes, visa fees where applicable
- Travel insurance
- Optional activities
- Gratuities
- Any items not mentioned as included
Notes
- Cruise prices are based on the Oceanview D4 cabin aboard SH Vega. Other cabins are also available upon request. Upgrade to a balcony cabin for only AUD3,375pp!
- Hotel rates are based on double / twin share lead in rooms. Other room types and hotels are available.
- Rates are subject to change and different rates may apply during holiday seasons and special events.
- Internal airfare prices are based on your arrival into South America being with LATAM Airlines. Supplements may apply if you arrive with another airline.
Price Assurance
At Eclipse Travel, our expert destination knowledge and decades of travel planning experience come at no extra cost to you. While many think booking through a tour operator is more expensive than planning a trip independently, that’s not the case. We’re paid by our travel partners—such as hotels, activity operators, and cruise providers—via commissions, not by our clients.
Our team negotiates the best rates for you and ensures you receive unbiased advice, with no preference for any particular supplier. In fact, where we secure higher commissions, we often pass the savings on to you, giving us a competitive price edge.
Additionally, we lock in exchange rates at the time of your deposit, ensuring no surprise costs when it’s time for final payment. You can rest easy knowing we’ll handle the details with our suppliers. The only exceptions are national park fee increases or fuel surcharges imposed after your booking, though these are rare.
Take advantage of our team’s expertise and let us help you plan the perfect holiday—hassle-free!
Destination: South America
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