South Georgia and Antarctic Peninsula: Penguin Safari Tour by Intrepid Travel

18 daysDuration

Group TourJoin a group of travelers

138 peopleMaximum group size

8 - 99 yearsAge range for participants

EnglishGuide language

Easy

Light physical activity suitable for most people with average fitness levels.

Starts

Ushuaia, Argentina

Ends

Ushuaia, Argentina

Highlights

See South Georgia’s incredible wildlife – both on deck and during daily Zodiac excursions to iconic landing sites, abundant with birdlife and busy penguins.

Follow in the wake of Sir Ernest Shackleton’s perilous voyages to South Georgia and pause for a moment at his gravesite as you learn about the history of these islands.

Explore the Antarctic Peninsula by ship, Zodiac and foot and witness icebergs in a hundred shades of blue – you might even see and hear the ice crashing into the ocean!

Learn about local wildlife, history, glaciology and geology during informational presentations by your onboard polar experts.

Immerse yourself in the icy realm of the Antarctic with an optional paddling excursion, hiking adventure, sea-kayaking or an invigorating Polar Plunge!

Itinerary

Witness one of nature’s grandest spectacles on the “South Georgia and Antarctic Peninsula: Penguin Safari” cruise, an 18-day expedition starting and ending in Ushuaia. This tour invites you to encounter thousands of penguins on South Georgia’s remote shores and traverse the ice-clad wonders of the Antarctic Peninsula. Guided Zodiac excursions bring you close to elephant seals, albatross, and a variety of penguin species. Optional sea kayaking, glacier hikes, or paddling adventures add excitement for those seeking more. The true distinction of this polar expedition trip lies in its rare access to thriving wildlife colonies and the pristine remoteness of the 7th Continent.

day 1 - Ushuaia, Argentina

Welcome to Ushuaia – the gateway to Antarctica. Located at the southern tip of Argentina, these parts are known as Tierra del Fuego, often called ‘The End of the World’, but this is just the beginning of your Antarctic adventure. Those with a day or two may want to head to Tierra del Fuego National Park on a full day’s adventure, or if you've only got a few hours to kill, why not stroll around town and visit the waterfront overlooking the Beagle Channel. You might also like to sample some handcrafted chocolate at a local cafe in town. Tonight, you’ll have a welcome meeting at the hotel, then have free time to get ready for tomorrow!

accommodation:Hotel (1 night)

day 2 - Embarkation in Ushuaia

This afternoon, you’ll board your ship and your epic adventure south will begin! Take some time to settle into your cabin as you begin cruising the stunning Beagle Channel, named after the famed vessel 'The Beagle' that facilitated some of Charles Darwin's most significant voyages. The channel transects the Tierra del Fuego archipelago in the extreme south of South America, and you’ll wave goodbye to Argentina with the knowledge that the next time you see land, you’ll be gazing upon the White Continent of Antarctica.

accommodation:Expedition Ship

meals:1 Breakfast, 1 Dinner

day 3 - At Sea

Over the next few days at sea, make the most of the many activities on offer – learn to identify the different seabirds that glide alongside the ship, or attend the informational presentations led by your expedition team. You’ll be prepped on the Zodiac cruises and shore landings with safety briefings and be given instructions for getting the most out of your optional sea kayaking adventures – highly recommended as it’s a truly intimate way to experience Antarctica.

If conditions are right, the first indication of South Georgia is the sight of birds around a group of rocky spires called Shag Rocks. Have your binoculars ready to capture these spires rising out of the ocean and keep a look out for breaching whales!

accommodation:Expedition Ship