South America

Spectacular Rio, Iguazu, Buenos Aires & Antarctica Adventure

27 Days. From AUD $48,372$32,410pp.
Small Ship Expeditions
Details

Overview

This unforgettable journey takes you through some of the most iconic and remote destinations on the planet, combining South America’s vibrant cities and natural wonders with the extraordinary wildlife and landscapes of the Southern Ocean. Beginning in Brazil and Argentina, you’ll experience the energy of Rio de Janeiro, the awe-inspiring power of Iguazu Falls, and the cultural elegance of Buenos Aires before heading south towards the world’s most remote frontiers.

The adventure continues with an expedition voyage through the Southern Ocean, including a visit to South Georgia — renowned for its dramatic scenery and extraordinary wildlife — before reaching the icy wilderness of Antarctica. Here, vast polar landscapes, towering ice formations and pristine environments create a powerful and unforgettable finale to the journey.

Carefully designed for travellers seeking both comfort and exploration, this tour offers a rare opportunity to experience legendary destinations and true wilderness in one seamless itinerary, delivering a once-in-a-lifetime adventure from South America to the ends of the Earth.

Save Up to 33%

Book by 28 Feb 2026
Subject to availability

Itinerary Highlights

  • Tick off your bucket list and sail to Antarctica , the Falkland Islands and South Georgia!
  • 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: Day at sea
  • Day 12: West Point Island - Saunders Island
  • Day 13: Port Stanley
  • Day 14 and 15: Day at sea
  • Day 16 to 18: South Georgia
  • Day 19: Day at sea
  • Day 20 to 24: Antarctic Peninsula
  • Day 25 and 26: Day at sea
  • Day 27: Fly back to Buenos Aires for your departure flight
Tailor-made suggestions
  • Upgrade your Antarctica cruise cabin to a balcony cabin!
  • 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: Arrive in Rio de Janeiro

Arrive in 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 - 27 - Buenos Aires: Hotel to Hotel Transfer / Antarctica, the Falklands & South Georgia roundtrip cruise

Hotel to Hotel Transfer
You will be transferred from your hotel in Buenos Aires to your next hotel in the same city.


Antarctica, the Falklands & South Georgia roundtrip cruise
Drink in the icy wilderness of the Antarctic Peninsula as you follow in the footsteps of Ernest Shackleton, one of history’s greatest explorers. Observe penguins, seals, whales and seabirds in their natural habitat. And stop at the Falkland Islands, a haven for endemic birdlife, before crossing the famous Drake Passage back to Ushuaia where your voyage ends.

Day 1: Buenos Aires (Hotel Night)
You will be met by a cruise representative upon your arrival at your hotel in Buenos Aires and will be 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. Upon 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: 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: West Point Island - Saunders Island
Birdlife is the big draw on this lush sheep-farming island, where thousands of rams and ewes roam. Settled by British explorers in 1765, the island’s unique scenery includes golden sand beaches filled with the cacophony of rockhopper, gentoo and Magellanic penguin colonies, and the pillar-shaped nests of black-browed albatross. Nine of the Falklands’ 14 endemic plants, including silvery buttercup and hairy daisy, grow here and are a real treat.

Black-browed albatross grace the skies over this remote Falkland Island, while Commerson's dolphins play in its waters. With a sparse population of people and sheep, the island is also a sanctuary for fur seals, rockhopper penguins, Magellanic penguins and imperial cormorants, nesting amid its cliffs and the impressive Cliff Mountain. Hiking through the moss-covered terrain unveils beautiful wildflowers like pink-petalled Felton's.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 5: Port Stanley
Anyone familiar with Britain’s trademark red post boxes might spot a resemblance in this British outpost. Port Stanley, on East Falkland, is the tiny capital of the Falkland Islands and is small enough to get around on foot. The Historic Dockyard Museum is devoted to maritime history and exploration. Magellanic penguins gather on the beach at nearby Gypsy Cove, and sea lions and dolphins frolic in the harbour.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 6 and 7: 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 8 to 10: South Georgia
Often called the 'Galapagos of the Poles,' South Georgia has a number of landing sites with tens of thousands of King Penguins and gentoo penguins, making up some of the largest populations in the world alongside harrumphing elephant seals. Among its remarkable sites is Grytviken, the historic whaling station where legendary British explorer Ernest Shackleton (1874–1922) is laid to rest.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 11: 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 12 to 16: 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 17 and 18: 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 19: 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.

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

Breakfast included.


Departs Daily
SeasonTypeFromAdditional
28 Dec 2026 - 23 Jan 2027 AUD$32410ppExpand to view prices - Includes specials!
Package priceAUD $48372pp AUD$32410ppSave Up to 33%

**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

Falklands and South Georgia, Antarctica - SH Minerva

What's included?

  • Internal airfares
  • Cruise on-board SH Minerva on a double/ twin share basis in Oceanview D4 cabin 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
  • Tips onboard your cruise

What's not?

  • International airfares
  • Arrival/departure taxes or reciprocity fees, hotel city taxes, visa fees where applicable
  • Travel insurance
  • Optional activities
  • Gratuities outside your cruise
  • Any items not mentioned as included

Important notes and additional information

  • Cruise prices are based on the Oceanview D4 cabin aboard SH Minerva. Other cabins are also available upon request. 
  • 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 that this itinerary includes flights with Aerolineas Argentinas and baggage allowance is up to 15kg  per person checked baggage. You can purchase more weight allowance at the counter in the airport.

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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Spectacular Rio, Iguazu, Buenos Aires & Antarctica Adventure

27 Days. From AUD $48,372$32,410pp.