South America Polar expeditions cruise Trips
Polar expeditions cruise trips in South America. Looking to explore South America on a polar expeditions cruise tour? We offer 10 polar expeditions cruise tours through-out South America, backed by 20 reviews and offering discounts up to 26%. All our trips are offered by expert trip designers and South America destination experts, with trip durations ranging from 8 to 20 days.
Most popular Polar expeditions and cruise Tours in South America
Discover our best Polar expeditions and cruise tours in South America, based on reviews and times booked.
It is a heady and inspiring cocktail of towering blue icebergs which refract searing blues and greens, whether against piercing clear skies or slate grey ones. It is home to an extraordinary array of wildlife: penguins of almost all descriptions, Leopard and smaller seals and whales, seen from the shore, the Zodiacs and from on board. This is a journey that appeals to many: photographers, wildlife enthusiasts, ornithologists or those who simply want to marvel at the peaks of Deception Island or the striking colours of Iceberg Alley in the most immaculate wilderness anywhere.
11 days
Dreaming of Antarctica but short on time? The "Antarctic Express: Fly the Drake" trip delivers an unforgettable polar adventure without the lengthy sea crossing. This eight-day guided expedition begins and ends in Punta Arenas, Chile, and is ideal for experienced travelers eager for a taste of the world’s last great wilderness. By flying over the Drake Passage to King George Island, you skip days at sea and arrive refreshed, ready to explore the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula.
Over the next four days, your cruise weaves among glacier-capped mountains, ice floes, and sparkling blue seas. Wildlife encounters are frequent—penguins, seals, whales, and seabirds become your constant companions as you journey to iconic sites such as Petermann Island, Neko Harbour, and the Gerlache Strait. Adventurous souls can scramble to viewpoints for breathtaking vistas, while visits to research stations and historic sites add fascinating context.
The unique selling point of this tour package is its swift, comfortable access to Antarctica, allowing you to experience the continent’s wonders in a compact timeframe. With all logistics, accommodation, and meals expertly handled, this is the perfect expedition for those seeking an easy yet immersive introduction to the polar world.
8 days
Few journeys rival the thrill of crossing the Antarctic Circle—a feat at the heart of the "Across the Antarctic Circle - M/V Greg Mortimer" cruise trip. Over 13 days, this relaxed expedition for seasoned adventurers sets sail from Ushuaia, threading through the legendary Drake Passage to the Antarctic Peninsula. Marvel at surreal icebergs, soaring mountain ranges, and ethereal snow petrels as you navigate icy waterways, aiming for Crystal Sound at The Gullet’s mouth. Wildlife enthusiasts will thrill to sightings of orca, leopard seals, and feeding humpbacks. Each day brings opportunities for guided Zodiac excursions and landings, with transport, meals, and accommodation included. The unique selling point? Achieving the milestone of crossing latitude 66°33' South—a true Antarctic adventure that combines pristine wilderness with unforgettable wildlife encounters, all in the hands of expert guides.
13 days
This voyage combines the best of the Antarctic Peninsula with the enchanting wildlife haven of South Georgia. Explore the historic Falklands-Malvinas and stand in awe before the world's largest king penguin colonies in South Georgia. In Antarctica, experience the serenity and grandeur of the most remote place on Earth-where penguins nest, whales feed, and captivating seals frolic in ice-speckled seas.
22 days
Relatively few humans set foot on the remote 7th Continent. Even fewer cross the Antarctic Circle. You can achieve both of these polar rites of passage on our 14-day Antarctic Peninsula: Crossing the Circle. Photograph penguin colonies, glaciers, remote bays and historical sites of the Peninsula while exploring by ship, Zodiac, kayak and during guided hikes. Our ultimate goal is to allow you to customize your adventure as you cross the 7th Continent off your bucket list.
14 days
This voyage combines the best of the Antarctic Peninsula with the enchanting wildlife haven of South Georgia. Explore the historic Falklands-Malvinas and stand in awe before the world's largest king penguin colonies in South Georgia. In Antarctica, experience the serenity and grandeur of the most remote place on Earth-where penguins nest, whales feed, and captivating seals frolic in ice-speckled seas.
21 days
Step onto Antarctica’s icy expanse without the long sea voyage—"Antarctic Express: Crossing the Circle" offers a thrilling 11-day polar expedition beginning and ending in Punta Arenas. Perfect for those seeking an easy yet deeply moving adventure, you’ll fly straight to King George Island and begin your exploration of the awe-inspiring 7th Continent almost instantly.
Each day is a tapestry of emotions, from the exhilaration of wildlife sightings—whales breaching, penguins waddling among rookeries—to the quiet majesty of glacial landscapes. Whether you’re scaling peaks for panoramic views or listening to the thunder of calving glaciers, Antarctica’s profound solitude and beauty will leave a lasting imprint.
This tour package’s unique selling point is its swift access via flight, maximizing your time amidst the polar wonders. With all accommodation, transport, and meals covered, it’s an easy, immersive introduction to Antarctica for travelers eager to experience something truly transformative.
11 days
In 2004, Quark Expeditions made Polar history when they conducted the first-ever ground visit to the remote Emperor penguin colony near Snow Hill Island, Antarctica. Driven by a true expeditionary spirit—and guided by years of Polar expertise—the team sailed past masses of dense ice and thick, tabular icebergs in the Weddell Sea to experience the legendary rookery, which now numbers 8,000 breeding pairs of Emperor penguins. Today, it is one of the most exclusive wildlife viewing experiences on the planet. We invite you—almost two decades after our milestone visit of 2004—to embrace the thrill of the search as we once again set out to visit to the emperor penguins at Snow Hill Island.
Experience a true Polar quest as we journey on our new ship, Ultramarine, which is equipped with two twin-engine helicopters that will fly guests to the vicinity of this rarely-visited rookery, whereupon they will walk across the thick sea ice to stand within metres of the most coveted penguin species on the planet. Anticipate scenes reminiscent of “March of the Penguins” and BBC’s “Frozen Planet.” Just imagine the penguins tobogganing across the ice towards the sea. Such wildlife moments are too precious for words!
14 days
Patagonia’s wild wonders await on the Essential Patagonia: Fjords & Torres del Paine expedition, a 15-day journey from Buenos Aires to Santiago. Designed for experienced travelers seeking an easy yet enriching adventure, this guided trip weaves through Argentina and Chile’s breathtaking landscapes, including the renowned Torres del Paine National Park, Isla Marta, and majestic southern fjords.
Traverse dramatic coastlines via Zodiac cruises and soar over pristine terrain on a helicopter flightseeing excursion—experiences that reveal Patagonia’s untouched beauty from every angle. Encounter Magellanic penguins, South American sea lions, and the elusive Southern Elephant seal as you explore blue-hued tidewater glaciers and remote wilderness.
This tour’s unique selling point is its immersive blend of wildlife-rich expeditions and exclusive vantage points, allowing you to retrace Charles Darwin’s legendary footsteps in complete comfort. With all logistics—accommodation, meals, and transfers—expertly arranged, you’re free to soak in the splendor of Patagonia’s fjords and national parks on this once-in-a-lifetime polar adventure.
15 days
Our classic 11-day Antarctic Explorer: Discovering the 7th Continent itinerary delivers the very best of the Antarctic Peninsula in one unforgettable journey: cross the legendary 800-kilometer (500-mile) Drake Passage; explore majestic polar landscapes by Zodiac, kayak, or on foot; photograph penguins, whales, and seals framed by towering ice; and deepen your experience with expert presentations on history, biology, and glaciology. Antarctica has been inspiring explorers for centuries—now it’s your turn.
11 days
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10 Best South America Polar expeditions and cruise August Deals
August exclusive deals on Polar expeditions and cruise tours in South America — massive savings for a limited time only!
It is a heady and inspiring cocktail of towering blue icebergs which refract searing blues and greens, whether against piercing clear skies or slate grey ones. It is home to an extraordinary array of wildlife: penguins of almost all descriptions, Leopard and smaller seals and whales, seen from the shore, the Zodiacs and from on board. This is a journey that appeals to many: photographers, wildlife enthusiasts, ornithologists or those who simply want to marvel at the peaks of Deception Island or the striking colours of Iceberg Alley in the most immaculate wilderness anywhere.
11 days
Dreaming of Antarctica but short on time? The "Antarctic Express: Fly the Drake" trip delivers an unforgettable polar adventure without the lengthy sea crossing. This eight-day guided expedition begins and ends in Punta Arenas, Chile, and is ideal for experienced travelers eager for a taste of the world’s last great wilderness. By flying over the Drake Passage to King George Island, you skip days at sea and arrive refreshed, ready to explore the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula.
Over the next four days, your cruise weaves among glacier-capped mountains, ice floes, and sparkling blue seas. Wildlife encounters are frequent—penguins, seals, whales, and seabirds become your constant companions as you journey to iconic sites such as Petermann Island, Neko Harbour, and the Gerlache Strait. Adventurous souls can scramble to viewpoints for breathtaking vistas, while visits to research stations and historic sites add fascinating context.
The unique selling point of this tour package is its swift, comfortable access to Antarctica, allowing you to experience the continent’s wonders in a compact timeframe. With all logistics, accommodation, and meals expertly handled, this is the perfect expedition for those seeking an easy yet immersive introduction to the polar world.
8 days
Relatively few humans set foot on the remote 7th Continent. Even fewer cross the Antarctic Circle. You can achieve both of these polar rites of passage on our 14-day Antarctic Peninsula: Crossing the Circle. Photograph penguin colonies, glaciers, remote bays and historical sites of the Peninsula while exploring by ship, Zodiac, kayak and during guided hikes. Our ultimate goal is to allow you to customize your adventure as you cross the 7th Continent off your bucket list.
14 days
Few journeys rival the thrill of crossing the Antarctic Circle—a feat at the heart of the "Across the Antarctic Circle - M/V Greg Mortimer" cruise trip. Over 13 days, this relaxed expedition for seasoned adventurers sets sail from Ushuaia, threading through the legendary Drake Passage to the Antarctic Peninsula. Marvel at surreal icebergs, soaring mountain ranges, and ethereal snow petrels as you navigate icy waterways, aiming for Crystal Sound at The Gullet’s mouth. Wildlife enthusiasts will thrill to sightings of orca, leopard seals, and feeding humpbacks. Each day brings opportunities for guided Zodiac excursions and landings, with transport, meals, and accommodation included. The unique selling point? Achieving the milestone of crossing latitude 66°33' South—a true Antarctic adventure that combines pristine wilderness with unforgettable wildlife encounters, all in the hands of expert guides.
13 days
This voyage combines the best of the Antarctic Peninsula with the enchanting wildlife haven of South Georgia. Explore the historic Falklands-Malvinas and stand in awe before the world's largest king penguin colonies in South Georgia. In Antarctica, experience the serenity and grandeur of the most remote place on Earth-where penguins nest, whales feed, and captivating seals frolic in ice-speckled seas.
22 days
Patagonia’s wild wonders await on the Essential Patagonia: Fjords & Torres del Paine expedition, a 15-day journey from Buenos Aires to Santiago. Designed for experienced travelers seeking an easy yet enriching adventure, this guided trip weaves through Argentina and Chile’s breathtaking landscapes, including the renowned Torres del Paine National Park, Isla Marta, and majestic southern fjords.
Traverse dramatic coastlines via Zodiac cruises and soar over pristine terrain on a helicopter flightseeing excursion—experiences that reveal Patagonia’s untouched beauty from every angle. Encounter Magellanic penguins, South American sea lions, and the elusive Southern Elephant seal as you explore blue-hued tidewater glaciers and remote wilderness.
This tour’s unique selling point is its immersive blend of wildlife-rich expeditions and exclusive vantage points, allowing you to retrace Charles Darwin’s legendary footsteps in complete comfort. With all logistics—accommodation, meals, and transfers—expertly arranged, you’re free to soak in the splendor of Patagonia’s fjords and national parks on this once-in-a-lifetime polar adventure.
15 days
Step onto Antarctica’s icy expanse without the long sea voyage—"Antarctic Express: Crossing the Circle" offers a thrilling 11-day polar expedition beginning and ending in Punta Arenas. Perfect for those seeking an easy yet deeply moving adventure, you’ll fly straight to King George Island and begin your exploration of the awe-inspiring 7th Continent almost instantly.
Each day is a tapestry of emotions, from the exhilaration of wildlife sightings—whales breaching, penguins waddling among rookeries—to the quiet majesty of glacial landscapes. Whether you’re scaling peaks for panoramic views or listening to the thunder of calving glaciers, Antarctica’s profound solitude and beauty will leave a lasting imprint.
This tour package’s unique selling point is its swift access via flight, maximizing your time amidst the polar wonders. With all accommodation, transport, and meals covered, it’s an easy, immersive introduction to Antarctica for travelers eager to experience something truly transformative.
11 days
Imagine soaring above the world’s last true wilderness—'Antarctica by Helicopter: Icebergs, Mountains & Remote Lands' offers just that. This 12-day polar expedition sets sail from Buenos Aires, taking experienced travelers into the heart of Antarctica with exclusive helicopter adventures.
Cruise in comfort aboard the Ultramarine, equipped with two twin-engine helicopters for included Heli Flightseeing and Heli Excursions. Witness otherworldly landscapes, from sculpted icebergs to Mars-like terrain, and step onto the untouched polar ground seen by only a few intrepid explorers.
What makes this tour package truly unique is its aerial access to remote Antarctic sites, providing perspectives and experiences unavailable on standard expeditions. This is the ultimate trip for those craving the extraordinary—Antarctica as few have ever seen it.
12 days
Take the fastest route to Antarctica – a three-hour flight – and enjoy your first glimpse of the continent from the air, a unique introduction to the vast and dramatic landscape that remains one of the last unspoiled regions in the world. Continue your journey on ship, where an adventure beyond your wildest imagination awaits. Later, return through the world’s most legendary – and exciting – passage of water, as you follow the path of historic explorers across the infamous Drake Passage.
Expect the unexpected and be rewarded with unique wildlife and natural attractions, each highlight surpassing the last. Marvel at the contrast of a desolate landscape inhabited by abundant wildlife including curious, playful penguins and seals. And embrace the excitement of standing on the continent for the very first time.
10 days
Stroll through the quaint English village of Stanley in the Falklands, wander the dunes, and birdwatch at rugged seabird cliffs. In South Georgia, discover beaches where king penguins breed and discover the rich historical legacy of the places you visit. Both islands are known for their wildlife with animals congregating by the thousands. Then, explore the Antarctic Peninsula and enter a world of ice and snow. Pursue your personal passions with a choice of rewarding activities and our extensive educational program.
20 days
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South America Polar expeditions and cruise Tour Reviews
Genuine reviews from travelers on Polar expeditions and cruise South America tours
John | Traveled in January
Fantastic ship, group leaders and ship personnel. Awesome scenery and a genuine adventure. Would love to do another trip on this vessel with Aurora.
Anonymous | Traveled in March
I feel immeasurably humbled to have been able to visit the 7th Continent on this trip. I will now live with the problem of the inability to fully relay to others what it is like to be in Antarctica, to see a landscape unchanged in thousands of years, to smell those penguins, to feel the cold Antarctic breeze, to hear the deafening silence of a sea full of ice. This itinerary gives you so much more time with the continent and crossing the Antarctic Circle was a notable highlight moment of the trip alongside doing the Polar plunge south of the Circle which just added to what was already an out-of-this-world experience. Amazing!
Anonymous | Traveled in February
An amazing experience. Awe inspiring.
Anonymous | Traveled in March
A thoroughly enjoyable trip. It was a priviledge to be able to go to Antarctica, where so few actually go. Very difficult to put into words what the trip meant other than amazing. I would do the trip again.
Anonymous | Traveled in February
So many pinch me moments every single day... Penguins are just incredible to see waddling along their penguin highways, spectacular whale watching, stunning icebergs. I'd go again tomorrow! Loved the camping, paddling and polar plunge. Do it all! You won't regret it. Fabulous trip, great bunch of people, delicious food.
Anonymous | Traveled in April
Its been a long held dream of mine to go to the Antarctic and the trip I booked via this tour operator far exceeded my expectations. Amazing scenery, captivating and exciting wildlife, a plethora of facts, figures and general education from the on board experts and I can claim a world first to boot from my holiday to the Antarctic and below the polar circle.
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