Highly demanding activities designed for individuals with excellent physical fitness.
Starts
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Ends
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Get Trip Brochure & Exclusive Discount
Download a detailed PDF brochure and unlock an exclusive discount for this tour
Do you need help from our trip consultants?
If you have any question about this tour or need help with planning a trip, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us.
Our travel experts are ready to help.
Why Book with Bookmundi
Earn USD 350+ in travel credits.
Best price guaranteed.
No credit card or booking fees.
100% financial protection.Bookmundi is a member of the Danish Travel Fund which guarantees for any payment made via us. Our guarantee covers all travelers, irrespective of nationality.
Carbon neutral tours.Algorithms and machine learning enables Bookmundi to calculate the carbon footprint for each tour. We then subsequently offset carbon emissions for all tour bookings on Bookmundi via investments in carbon reduction projects to help combat climate change.
25,000+ trip reviews, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5.
Carbon neutral
CO2 emissions resulting from all trips on Bookmundi will be offset via investments in carbon reduction projects.
Emperor Penguin Quest: Expedition to Snow Hill
Best price guaranteed
No booking fees
E-ticket/Mobile-voucher
What are customers saying about Bookmundi
4.67/5
Excellent based on 810 customer reviews from
Lisa
The booking experience with Bookmundi was very smooth, quick and easy, they also accept AMEX cards. They also responded promptly to all the questions I had before making the booking. I am looking forward to the trip.
15 hours ago
Tour Availability
Select your preferred departure date and secure your spot
Loading availability...
Customer Reviews
This tour has not received any customer reviews yet. However, you can expect a good tour as it is run by a trusted travel specialist who has received 22 reviews for other tours with an average 5.0rating.
Embrace the expeditionary spirit on a quest to reach the colony of thousands of pairs of emperor penguins and their chicks
Spend five days in the vicinity of Snow Hill, either on tour to the colony, or immersing yourself in our custom-designed Weddell Sea experiences
Travel aboard our new ship Ultramarine, enjoying the sauna or one of the ship’s many other onboard amenities
Enjoy the intimacy of traveling on a ship with a reduced capacity of 150 guests
Additional staff means there will be one expedition team member for every four guests
Learn from polar experts during our enhanced onboard education program
Enjoy helicopter sightseeing and Zodiac cruising for unique perspectives of the Antarctic Peninsula.
Learn from polar experts during our enhanced onboard education program
Enjoy helicopter sightseeing and Zodiac cruising for unique perspectives of the Antarctic Peninsula.
Ship Details
Ultramarine
Ultramarine is designed to go beyond the familiar in polar exploration, to discover new places, and to immerse you in the best the region has to offer. Equipped with two twin-engine helicopters, Ultramarine offers the most robust portfolio of adventure activities in the industry, the most spacious suites in its category, breathtaking public spaces, and more outdoor wildlife viewing spaces than other expedition ships its size. It also features an innovative mix of sustainability features that exceed all industry standards. With all this and more, Ultramarine is set to deliver the ultimate polar expedition experience.
Shipboard accommodation with daily housekeepingAll shore landings per the daily program
Meals
2 BreakfastsBeer and house wine during dinnerCoffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock
Guide
Leadership throughout the voyage by our experienced Expedition Leader
Others
All Zodiac transfers and cruising per the daily programFormal and informal presentations by our Expedition Team and special guests as scheduledPhotographic journal documenting the expeditionWaterproof expedition boots on loan for shore landingsOfficial Quark Expeditions® parka to keepComplimentary reusable water bottleHair dryer and bathrobe in every cabinComprehensive onboard materials, including a map and an informative Arctic/Antarctic ReaderAll miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the programAll luggage handling aboard the shipEmergency evacuation insurance to a maximum benefit of US$500, 000 per personMandatory price included
Argentina's vast diversity is yours to explore on the "Discovering the Best of Argentina" tour. Over 15 memorable days, young adults will journey from the icy glaciers of Patagonia to the thunderous Iguazu Falls, stroll the Parisian boulevards of Buenos Aires, witness the end of the world in Ushuaia, and sip wine in Mendoza’s sunlit vineyards. This trip expertly combines scenic wonders with immersive cultural experiences—think tango performances and outdoor adventures. The stand-out feature? A thoughtfully curated itinerary that showcases Argentina’s most spectacular contrasts, all in one unforgettable tour package.
Ready to lace up your boots for the ultimate hiking adventure? The "Wild Patagonia for Hikers" trip delivers a thrilling 16-day exploration of Argentina’s and Chile’s most dramatic landscapes, perfectly suited to energetic young adults. Discover the legendary trails of El Chaltén, known as Argentina’s trekking capital, where the mighty Fitz Roy Mountain towers over a wonderland of glaciers, lakes, and forests.
Immerse yourself in the wild grandeur of Torres del Paine National Park, famed for its blue icebergs, towering cliffs, and wildlife-rich pampas. Witness the awesome Perito Moreno Glacier—one of the world’s few advancing glaciers—fed by the vast Southern Patagonian Ice Field.
Push further south, crossing the storied Strait of Magellan to reach Ushuaia, the world’s southernmost city. This adventure isn’t just about epic hikes and jaw-dropping vistas—it’s a rare opportunity to experience the full spectrum of Patagonia’s untamed beauty, from its unique flora and fauna to its staggering mountain scenery.
The USP? An immersive trek through the heart of Patagonia, featuring iconic national parks and legendary trails, all tailored for passionate hikers seeking a true test of endurance and wonder.
Ever wondered what it feels like to cross the Antarctic Circle? The "Crossing the Circle: Southern Expedition" cruise offers just that—a 14-day journey from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia, taking you deep into the rarely-visited southernmost reaches of Antarctica. Witness dramatic ice formations, spot whales and penguins, and revel in the exhilaration of navigating south of 66°33' S. With the innovative Ultramarine vessel, enjoy flightseeing tours and a range of adventure activities unmatched in the region. The trip’s unique selling point is the chance to accomplish a rare polar milestone, all while experiencing the most advanced expedition ship in Antarctic waters.
Take a step into a world of pure nature in Patagonia, where crystal-clear waters meet mountainside glaciers. Feel the Latin-infused rhythms of Buenos Aires. Gaze upon awe-inspiring mountains, valleys and grasslands at Torres del Paine National Park. Enjoy a 4-night cruise through the fjords of Patagonia. Engage in a variety of nature hikes. Spend the day by the Pia Glacier. View a colony of Magellanic penguins. Connect with a local gaucho (cowboy) at an Argentine lamb roast. Find a haven of snowcapped Andes and ethereal fjords in the wilderness of Chile and Argentina.
Embrace the spirit of true exploration with the "Antarctic Circle - Expedition," a 14-day relaxed wildlife tour beginning and ending in Ushuaia. Navigate the infamous Drake Passage to the Antarctic Peninsula, crossing the Polar Circle at 66°33'S—a rare achievement for any traveler. Witness vast penguin rookeries (chinstrap, Adelie, gentoo), colossal glaciers, and dramatic icebergs. Daily excursions, weather permitting, offer up-close encounters with seals and whales, and visits to scientific outposts and historic whaling stations. With all essentials included, this trip’s unique selling point is the chance to venture deeper into Antarctica than most, surrounded by mesmerizing wilderness and abundant wildlife.
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.
Patagonia’s wild beauty awaits on this 15-day cruise tour, charting a course from Buenos Aires to Santiago via the remote fjords and national parks of southern Chile and Argentina. Retrace Darwin’s legendary exploration as you glide past majestic glaciers, observe Magellanic penguins and sea lions, and venture into the heart of Torres del Paine National Park. The journey blends the comfort of the pioneering Ultramarine vessel—with its unmatched adventure amenities and scenic flightseeing tours—with up-close Zodiac excursions and rich wildlife encounters. This is the ideal trip for intrepid travelers seeking a blend of luxury and adventure, with the USP being exclusive access to helicopter flightseeing above Patagonia’s untamed landscapes.
15 days
Itinerary
Take part in a legendary polar adventure with the "Emperor Penguin Quest: Expedition to Snow Hill." This 14-day cruise departs from Buenos Aires and journeys through the icy realms of the Weddell Sea and Drake Passage, culminating in an extraordinary wildlife encounter at Snow Hill Island. Guests will utilize state-of-the-art twin-engine helicopters to access the rarely visited emperor penguin rookery, witnessing scenes reminiscent of "March of the Penguins." Led by the most experienced expedition team in the industry, this tour ensures the highest chance of seeing over 4,000 breeding pairs and their chicks up close. The unique selling point is the unrivaled access to one of the planet’s most exclusive wildlife spectacles, allowing adventurous travelers to write their own chapter in polar history.
day 1 - Arrive in Buenos Aires, Argentina
Upon arriving in this fascinating city, known for its architecture and rich European heritage, you will independently transfer to your group hotel (pre-expedition hotel night included in mandatory transfer package).
day 2 - Fly to Ushuaia and Embark
After an early breakfast at the hotel, your group will transfer to the airport and board our private charter flight to Ushuaia, Argentina. Upon arrival, you will be transferred from the airport to a central downtown location to enjoy time on your own to explore quaint Ushuaia—the world’s southernmost city—before making your way to the pier. After a late afternoon embarkation, you will sail along the historic Beagle Channel, which transects the Tierra del Fuego archipelago in the extreme south of South America. Enjoy the air of anticipation as you depart—the next land you see will be the Antarctic!
Meals:Breakfast
days 3 and 4 - Crossing the Drake Passage
The unpredictable and exciting Drake Passage, which lies at the confluence of the Pacific, the Atlantic and the Southern oceans, is an adventure unto itself. While being well taken care of by our expert onboard staff and expedition team, you’ll have plenty of time to gaze out at the expansive ocean waters, photograph seabirds as they swoop around the ship, and get to know your Expedition Team and fellow travelers.
day 5 - Navigating into the Weddell Sea
Onboard presentations by world-respected experts will enrich your polar quest, conveying what it was like a century ago for the brave polar heroes who embraced the unknown. You’ll also learn more about the ice-dwelling emperor penguins.
days 6 to 10 - Weddell Sea and the Quest to Land at Snow Hill
The journey toward Snow Hill Island will put you in explorer mode as the captain and Expedition Leader keep you updated through weather briefings, meteorological and sea ice condition reports. The thickness of ice will determine how close Ultramarine can get to Snow Hill Island, then our twin-engine helicopters will take over. Like summitting a mountain from base camp, parties will set out from Ultramarine towards the emperor penguin colony. Their adventure begins with an extended helicopter transfer that will reveal a landscape of snow-capped peaks and apartment-building-sized tabular icebergs. The rookery itself is located on the sea ice off the south coast of Snow Hill Island and the landing will be as close to the penguins as possible, yet at a safe distance to avoid disturbing the birds. Upon landing, your party will walk across the ice to the fabled emperor penguin colony. The wind. The ice beneath your feet. Walking next to paths in the snow carved by penguins that came before. And then there are the incredible sounds of the penguins in the distance as you march toward one of the rarest wildlife opportunities on the planet: the colony of thousands and thousands of rarely-seen emperor penguins. The goal of the expedition is to get every guest to the remote rookery once. The Expedition Team and special experts will be close by to answer your questions and ensure you take in everything there is to see. You’ll observe close up how the emperor penguins behave as a tight-knit community, how they care for their young, and how they body surf across the ice in a way that can only be described as quirky yet efficient. The helicopter expedition in search of the emperor colony might just be the adventure of a lifetime And while at base on Ultramarine with your attentive Expedition Team, you’ll be immersed each day in the polar experience of the Weddell Sea. Daily activities will include Zodiac cruising among the icebergs, adventuring and learning while atop the ice, paddle-on-top kayaking, or working with our team to observe the weather forecasting and ship operations up close. A particularly enriching component of your voyage will be the bespoke educational programs tailored specifically for this expedition that offer both traditional (lecture format) and hands-on opportunities for learning about this fascinating region. Each day our polar experts, who include penguin scientists, biologists and polar historians, will present on various aspects of emperor penguins and their behaviors, ice formations such as the tabular icebergs which you’ll see from the deck of your ship, and the experiences of polar explorers who braved the Weddell Sea over a century ago. Or you might, on one of these days, decide to take the polar plunge, or test your balance on a stand-up paddleboard. Then again, maybe you’ll enjoy a little pampering. If so, you can choose from Ultramarine’s excellent onboard amenities, including the spa, sauna and fitness room. The emperor penguin colony at Snow Hill is the goal of this expedition. However, if weather or ice conditions prevent us from visiting the colony or shorten the duration of our visit, we may explore some of these other sites. Your possible landings in Antarctica will take place on the eastern side of the Peninsula, which is an extension of the Transantarctic Mountains and is the most northern stretch of Antarctic land. Brown Bluff An immense cliff of volcanic rock, towers 2,225 feet (678 meters) over rookeries of Adélie and gentoo penguins, some of which will be incubating their eggs. Devil Island The Swedish Antarctic Expedition of 1901-04 discovered the narrow island, which is 1 mile (1.6 km) long and has a low summit at each end. Hope Bay Three members of the Swedish Antarctic Expedition (1901-04) spent the winter in a hut on the shores of Hope Bay. The hut is located close to the jetty of Esperanza Station, an Argentine research station. Paulet Island Located in the northwestern Weddell Sea, Paulet Island is home to a large Adélie penguin rookery. With a volcanic cone that rises 1,158 feet (353 meters), the island reminds you that this was once a very active landscape. In addition to penguins, you may be interested in visiting a historic hut built by members of the Swedish Antarctic Expedition of 1901-04. A cross marks the gravesite of crew member Ole Wennersgaard. Seymour Island Northeast of Snow Hill Island is a smaller island that was originally mistaken for a cape. Seymour Island is significant for fossil finds and for the remains of the KT Boundary, which marks the transition between the Cretaceous Period (dinosaurs and reptiles) and the Tertiary Period (mammals) of geological times. This era is known for the mass extinction of many forms of life, including dinosaurs.
days 11 to 13 - Cruising
The journey back across the Drake Passage provides a final opportunity to enjoy the invigorating Southern Ocean air. Spend time on the deck watching for seabirds and scouting for whales, enjoy presentations by your Expedition Team, and celebrate the experiences you've shared getting off the beaten track in the remarkable world of Antarctica.
day 14 - Disembark in Ushuaia and Fly to Buenos Aires
ou will arrive in Ushuaia in the morning and disembark after breakfast. You will then make your way towards your included group charter flight to Buenos Aires.
