South America

Patagonia and Antarctica Explorer

23 Days, Selected Departures. From AUD $27,601pp.
Small Ship Expeditions
Details

Overview

Embark on the ultimate adventure with our Patagonia and Antarctica Explorer tour! Begin in vibrant Santiago before venturing to the breathtaking Torres del Paine, where you’ll witness towering peaks and pristine landscapes. Explore the awe-inspiring Perito Moreno Glacier, hike through Tierra del Fuego National Park, and set sail from Ushuaia on an unforgettable Antarctic expedition. Encounter penguin rookeries, towering icebergs, and dramatic fjords as you journey to the frozen wilderness of the Antarctic Peninsula. Conclude with an exciting tango-filled finale in Buenos Aires. This is the journey of a lifetime!

Itinerary Highlights

  • Visit both the Chilean and Argentinean sides of Patagonia and see the incredible Torres del Paine National Park and the iconic Perito Moreno glacier
  • Tick off your bucket list and sail to the Antarctica Peninsula
  • Bookend your trip with visits to two of South America's most interesting and cultural cities; Santiago and Buenos Aires
  • Exceptional value with flights, land arrangements and your cruise included

Itinerary in Brief

  • Day 1: Arrive in Santiago and check-in to your hotel
  • Day 2: Exclusive Santiago tour
  • Day 3: Fly to Torres del Paine and transfer to your lodge
  • Day 4-5: Torres del Paine National Park
  • Day 6: Transfer from Torres del Paine to El Calafate
  • Day 7: Perito Moreno Glacier
  • Day 8: Fly to Ushuaia
  • Day 9: Tierra del Fuego National Park
  • Day 10: Embark your cruise to Antarctica
  • Day 11-12: Crossing the Drake Passage Southbound
  • Day 13-17: Antarctic Peninsula
  • Day 18-19: At Sea - Crossing the Drake Passage Northbound
  • Day 20: Disembark and fly to Buenos Aires 
  • Day 21:Buenos Aires - Centro, San Telmo & Boca half day tour. Evening Tango show
  • Day 22: Buenos Aires - Recoleta & Palermo half day tour
  • Day 23: Depart Buenos Aires

Tailor-made suggestions

  • Extend your trip through to the majestic Iguazu Falls and into Rio de Janeiro
  • Experience the wonders of Chile’s north with a visit to the spectacular Atacama desert
  • Add a day in Santiago to visit Valparaiso, Viña del Mar & the Vineyards 
  • 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 - Santiago: Arrive in Santiago

Arrive in Santiago
On arrival at the airport you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel.

Chile's capital city is surrounded by an extraordinary set of snow-capped Andean mountains to the east and a smaller coastal range to the west. It is truly a beautiful sight. The city offers one of Latin America's most cosmopolitan, vibrant and artistic city centres so your stay here is sure to be an exciting one.


Day 2 - Santiago: Exclusive Santiago Tour

Exclusive Santiago Tour
Tuesday to Sunday (tour will be different on Mondays due to closure of San Cristobal Hill Gondola)

On this excursion, we will discover the contrasts and charms of Santiago on a six-hour tour that combines the city’s most iconic landmarks with a few local favourites. Chile’s rich cultural heritage comes to life as we visit its most emblematic sites, including the Plaza de Armas – the historic heart of the city – the Government Palace of La Moneda, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the picturesque Santa Lucía Hill, where Santiago was founded in 1541.

The route continues to the lively bohemian district of Bellavista, from where we ascend San Cristóbal Hill to enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of the city framed by the majestic Andes Mountains.

We then head towards the eastern sector, the most modern area of Santiago, known for its impressive high-rise buildings, elegant avenues, and vibrant urban atmosphere. During the day, we will have the opportunity to choose one of two optional activities to enhance our experience: visiting the fascinating Paris & Londres neighbourhood or exploring the charming Lastarria neighbourhood, renowned for its historic architecture, cafés, and cultural vibe.

At the end of the excursion, we return to our hotel with some free time to continue exploring the city at our own pace.

*Duration: 6 hours


Breakfast included.

Day 3 - 6 - Santiago: Hotel to Airport (Private) / Eco Camp Torres del Paine - Wildlife Safari

Hotel to Airport (Private)
Our representative will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to the airport for your departure flight.


Eco Camp Torres del Paine - Wildlife Safari
This unique trip takes you through Torres del Paine's highlights and lets you enjoy the best of the park's flora and fauna on treks with your specialist guide. You’ll explore scenic landscapes such as rivers, glaciers, mountains, and wildlife by day and at night, you’ll relax in Eco Camp’s domes with delightful food and wine.

EcoCamp Wildlife Safari: Day 1
The trip begins with you being picked up from your hotel in Punta Arenas or Punta Arenas airport in the morning and driven to EcoCamp Patagonia, located in the world-famous Torres del Paine National Park. Alternatively, you can start your trip in Calafate**. En route we make a couple of stops - first in Puerto Natales, a small, lively town on the shores of "Seno de Ultima Esperanza", where we enjoy a hearty local lunch before continuing on to EcoCamp. The whole journey is very scenic, with plenty of wild birds and wonderful landscapes to be seen. The day ends with our arrival and overnight stay at EcoCamp Patagonia, nestled in the heart of the park with a view of the Torres. During summer the sun sets around 11pm, so upon arrival there's plenty of light to admire the Patagonian steppe with its guanacos and snow-peaked mountain horizon.

**For El Calafate transfers, clients will be picked up around 7:00-7:45am (to be confirmed on the night before) from their hotel to the bus station in El Calafate. From there, clients will catch the public bus to Puerto Natales (approx 4-5hr travel time). Stop in Puerto Natales for lunch and meet the Ecocamp representative who will transfer guests to Ecocamp. Arrive to the camp at approximately 4:30-5:00pm.

Lunch and Dinner included.

EcoCamp Wildlife Safari: Days 2-3
During your stay, EcoCamp's specialist guides take you on different adventures and wildlife watching trips through Torres del Paine's most treasured sights. You’ll experience nature at close quarters as you witness the incredible sight of guanacos roaming along the river banks, foxes trotting in the distance, vivid blue icebergs floating on Grey Lake and the fierce Patagonian wind rushing through the plains.

Each day you will have an opportunity to choose between easy or more active excursions. Please note that only certain excursions are offered on certain day, according to the EcoCamp timetable.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

EcoCamp Wildlife Safari: Day 4
We board an early morning vehicle, sit back, relax, and enjoy a scenic ride back to Punta Arenas in time to catch your flight to Santiago. Those heading to Argentina will board an earlier transfer heading to the border.

Breakfast and Lunch included.


Day 6 - Torres Del Paine: Torres del Paine hotel to El Calafate Hotel via Cerro Castillo border

Torres del Paine hotel to El Calafate Hotel via Cerro Castillo border
Today you will take the shared transfer from your hotel to the Cerro Castillo border in Argentina, where you will change cars and then be transferred to your hotel in El Calafate.


Breakfast included.

Day 7 - El Calafate: Perito Moreno Glacier incl. Nautical Safari

Perito Moreno Glacier incl. Nautical Safari
After breakfast you will be picked up from your hotel for your excursion to the Perito Moreno Glacier, one of the most famous landmarks in South America and one of Patagonia's only advancing glaciers. The glacier is 5 kilometres wide, with an average height of 74 metres above the surface of the water of Lake Argentino and a total ice depth of 170 metres.

You'll go first to the glacier's less frequented north face to marvel at its splendour. You'll observe and hear giant chunks of ice plummet into the waters of Lake Argentino. Your guide will answer questions about the glacier and the park, and then we'll continue on to the footbridges and take a break to enjoy the surroundings. You'll also have the opportunity to do a short nautical safari to observe this magnificent glacier from a closer viewpoint.

After the thrilling encounter with the Perito Moreno, we'll drive back to Calafate where you will spend the evening.

**For those after something a little more adventurous, we can offer a ‘Mini trekking' excursion where you hike into the core of Perito Moreno Glacier and experience its surreal beauty. Please note, this is not an "add-on" to the above tour, it is a full day tour and needs to be pre-booked instead of the above tour. Let us know if you'd like more details on this tour.


Breakfast included.

Day 8 - El Calafate: Depart El Calafate / Arrive in Ushuaia

Depart El Calafate
Our representative will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to the airport.


Arrive in Ushuaia
On arrival at the airport you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel.

Ushuaia, the world's most southern city, is located in Argentina's Tierra del Fuego, on the shores of the Beagle Channel with the spectacular snow-peaked Martial Mountains spanning the horizon. It's a great place to visit before setting off to other areas of Patagonia or starting a cruise to Antarctica.


Breakfast included.

Day 9 - Ushuaia: Tierra del Fuego National Park Hike and Canoe Tour

Tierra del Fuego National Park Hike and Canoe Tour
We depart from your Ushuaia hotel by minibus and head to Tierra del Fuego National Park with your guide and small group. Upon arrival, stop at Bahia Ensenada (Ensenada Bay) to enjoy beautiful views of the Beagle Channel before undertaking your hike up the easy coastal path.

Your guide will choose the route—either the Pampa Alta or Senda Costera—depending on conditions and interests of the group. Pampa Alta, a 3-mile (5-km) trail that lasts approximately two hours, offers gorgeous vistas as well as bird watching. Senda Costera (Coastal Path) is a popular 4-mile (8-km) trail that takes you along the coast for about three hours. As you follow your guide, you'll learn about the geography of the area as well as the nature and wildlife found in Tierra del Fuego National Park. Note the diverse flora and fauna, such as Antarctic beech, and perhaps find traces of ancient Yámanas settlements.

When you reach your destination at Lago Roca (Roca Lake), enjoy a complimentary lunch in the forest setting. Dine on chicken breast en papillote (baked in foil) with tomato and cheese, accompanied by mineral water, wine and soft drinks.

After lunch, your guide will prepare your small group for the 1.5-hour canoe ride down the Lapataia River, which brings you to Lapataia Bay and the Beagle Channel. The remote bay, nestled amid snow-capped mountains, is a great place for spotting waterfowl such as ducks, geese and plovers that inhabit this region at the ‘end of the world'!

Your tour culminates here at the Panamerican Highway, where you'll hop aboard your minibus for the return trip to Ushuaia with drop-off at your hotel.

Please note, this tour doesn't operate on Saturdays.


Breakfast and Lunch included.

Day 10 - 20 - Ushuaia: Transfer from Hotel to Port / Antarctic Peninsula Odyssey Cruise (Cruise Only)

Transfer from Hotel to Port
Today you will be picked up from your hotel by our representative and transferred to the port.


Antarctic Peninsula Odyssey Cruise (Cruise Only)
Embark on the Antarctic Peninsula Odyssey from the picturesque city of Ushuaia, a gateway to untamed natural beauty. Begin your round trip by crossing the legendary Drake Passage, reaching the stunning Antarctic Peninsula before returning to Ushuaia. This luxury cruise promises an unforgettable experience. During this journey, you'll have the chance to witness the magnificent landscapes of the White Continent. Awe at free-floating icebergs, massive glaciers, and majestic ice cliffs. Explore areas like Petermann Island, known for its diverse wildlife including Adelie penguins, elephant seals, and blue-eyed shags. The luxury cruise includes a variety of activities to enrich your adventure. Spend days at sea mingling with fellow passengers, attending expert lectures, or honing photography skills. In the Antarctic Peninsula, optional kayaking excursions offer a unique perspective on the icy wonderland, ensuring a memorable and immersive encounter.
Day 1: 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.

Dinner included.

Day 2 and 3: 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 4 to 8: 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 Mikkelsen Harbour, where among gentoo penguins, snowy sheathbills and skuas, Antarctic Weddell seals haul out.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 9 and 10: 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 11: Ushuaia
Ushuaia is the gateway to the White Continent. Nestled in the foothills of the snow-capped Martial Range in Argentina's Patagonia region, 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. Often described as 'the End of the World', the city carries the reputation well - the moody weather and dramatic surroundings certainly help.

This itinerary is a guide only and is subject to change due to weather, sea state and other conditions beyond control.

Breakfast included.


Day 20 - Buenos Aires: Arrive in Buenos Aires

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.


Day 21 - 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 22 - 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 23 - Buenos Aires: Depart Buenos Aires

Depart Buenos Aires
Our representative will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to the airport.


Breakfast included.

Selected Departures

SeasonTypeFromAdditional
30 Nov 2026 - 22 Dec 2026 AUD$27601ppExpand to view prices
Package priceAUD$27601pp testContact us
10 Dec 2026 - 01 Jan 2027 AUD$28976ppExpand to view prices
  • 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.
Package price

Santiago, Chile - Hotel Cumbres Lastarria

Torres Del Paine, Chile - EcoCamp

El Calafate, Argentina - Mirador del Lago

Ushuaia, Argentina - Cilene del Faro Suites & Spa

Antarctic Peninsula, Antarctica - SH Diana

Buenos Aires, Argentina - Eurobuilding Hotel

What's included?

  • Internal airfares
  • Cruise on-board SH Diana on a double/ twin share basis on Category Oceanview D4 cabin. Please ask us for upgrades.
  • Superior Dome at Ecocamp
  • Accommodation with private facilities throughout the tour
  • Transfers
  • Entrance fees
  • English-speaking guided tours
  • Meals as specified

Inclusions on your Antarctica Cruise on-board SH Diana

  • 11-day Cruise on-board SH Diana on a double/ twin share basis on Category Oceanview D4 cabin. Please ask us for upgrades.
  • All meals onboard
  • Complimentary hot & cold beverages, beer, wine & spirits any time throughout your cruise
  • 24-hour room service
  • Lecture programs by expedition team and guest speakers
  • One selected shore excursion per port of call
  • All expedition landings
  • Entry level WI-FI (upgraded packages available)
  • Gym, sauna, pool
  • 24/7 self service laundry
  • Waterproof backpack and refillable water bottle, yours to keep
  • Branded parka, yours to keep and use of rubber boots
  • Memory Package
  • Onboard gratuities & port taxes

What's not?

  • International airfares into Santiago and out of Buenos Aires
  • Airport entrance/departure taxes/hotel taxes where applicable
  • Travel insurance
  • Optional activities
  • Tips during South America land arrangements
  • Any items not mentioned as included

Exclusions on your Antarctica Cruise on-board SH Diana

  • Extra excursions and activities not mentioned in the itinerary
  • Single room supplement and stateroom upgrades. Ask us for upgrades, Single prices and Triple/Quad prices
  • Kayaking
  • Personal expenses (e.g. Polar Spa services, Boutique purchases)
  • Anything not mentioned under 'Inclusions'

Important notes and additional information

  • 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.
  • Please note your internal flights include a baggage allowance up to 23kg in Chile and up to 15kg in Argentina for checked in bags + carry on baggage allowance of 12kg in Chile and 8kg in Argentina. Please ask us about extra baggage allowance rates.

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

The vivid sights and sounds of South America offer something for everyone. Stretching from the Caribbean to Patagonia, the variety of cultures, climates and landscapes has to be experienced firsthand to be believed. The memories you take home will leave you wanting more – we’re sure you’ll want to return again and again, just like us!

Downloadable travel guide

Planning your next adventure has never been easier with our free downloadable travel guides. Get in-depth insights into local attractions, dining options, and hidden gems, all curated by our team of travel specialists with decades of experience.

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Patagonia and Antarctica Explorer

23 Days, Selected Departures. From AUD $27,601pp.