Ultimate Antarctica: Falklands, South Georgia & the Antarctic Circle

Intrepid Travel · 24 days
Ultimate Antarctica: Falklands, South Georgia & the Antarctic Circle
Ultimate Antarctica: Falklands, South Georgia & the Antarctic Circle
Ultimate Antarctica: Falklands, South Georgia & the Antarctic Circle
Ultimate Antarctica: Falklands, South Georgia & the Antarctic Circle
Ultimate Antarctica: Falklands, South Georgia & the Antarctic Circle
Ultimate Antarctica: Falklands, South Georgia & the Antarctic Circle
Ultimate Antarctica: Falklands, South Georgia & the Antarctic Circle
Ultimate Antarctica: Falklands, South Georgia & the Antarctic Circle
Ultimate Antarctica: Falklands, South Georgia & the Antarctic Circle
Ultimate Antarctica: Falklands, South Georgia & the Antarctic Circle
Ultimate Antarctica: Falklands, South Georgia & the Antarctic Circle
Ultimate Antarctica: Falklands, South Georgia & the Antarctic Circle
Ultimate Antarctica: Falklands, South Georgia & the Antarctic Circle
Ultimate Antarctica: Falklands, South Georgia & the Antarctic Circle
Ultimate Antarctica: Falklands, South Georgia & the Antarctic Circle
Ultimate Antarctica: Falklands, South Georgia & the Antarctic Circle
24 Days
From AUD $38590
Trip Type
Group Tour
Activity Level
Light

Rating

Ultimate Antarctica: Falklands, South Georgia & the Antarctic Circle

Ultimate Antarctica: Falklands, South Georgia & the Antarctic Circle

Intrepid Travel · 24 days
View Map
Duration

24 days

Tour Type

Group Tour

Accommodations

Comfortable

Physical Rating

Light

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Discover all that Antarctica has to offer on this epic 24-day expedition that explores the Falkland Islands, South Georgia islands and the Antarctic peninsula, including crossing the rarely seen Antarctic Circle!.

Highlights

  • Try your hand at wildlife photography, witness thousands of nesting penguins and spot the largest albatross colony in the world in the Falkland Islands.
  • Retrace Sir Ernest Shackleton’s steps in South Georgia, hearing his epic tale of survival visiting his grave at the ex-whaling station of Grytviken.
  • Reach latitude 66°33’S and cross the fabled Antarctic Circle, keeping watch for Weddell seals as you venture where few travellers have ever sailed.
  • Head out on daily Zodiac cruises and shore excursions (weather permitting), allow you to fully immerse yourself in the breathtaking surroundings of the Antarctic wilderness.
  • Benefit from a variety of onboard activities on the Ocean Nova, including educational lectures and the Citizen Science Program, all led by our expert Expedition Team. 

Trip Details

Duration

24 days

Transportation

Expedition cruise ship,zodiac

Tour Type

Group Tour

Guide Language

English

Starts

Ushuaia, Argentina, Antarctica

Finishes

Disembarkation in Ushuaia, Argentina, Antarctica

Accommodations

Comfortable

Travel Style

Polar

Physical Rating

Light

Itinerary

1
Day 1: Ushuaia, Argentina
Welcome to Ushuaia, Argentina – the gateway to Antarctica! Upon arrival at Ushuaia Airport, enjoy an included transfer to your hotel. Once you arrive at your hotel, you’re free to explore. Maybe head downtown for some early souvenir shopping or taste some classic Argentinian flavours at one of the local restaurants. Tonight at your hotel you’ll meet your fellow travellers and Expedition Team at an important welcome meeting, learning more about the journey ahead and the details for tomorrow’s embarkation. After, why not hit a cosy dinner spot or local bar and explore what your upcoming adventure may hold?

Accommodation:

  • Comfortable Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
2
Day 2: Embarkation in Ushuaia, Argentina
After breakfast, the morning is yours to explore Ushuaia. You could stroll through the quaint town with a camera, or grab a last-minute necessity. In the afternoon, you’ll transfer to the port of Ushuaia and embark the Ocean Nova – your home on the sea. Get settled into your cabin, then set sail through the historic Beagle Channel towards Antarctica. Find the perfect spot to soak up the incredible views as you catch your last sight of Argentina – then head inside to join the excitement and learn more about what’s to come on this Antarctic adventure. This evening is an excellent opportunity to explore the ship and enjoy a delicious dinner in the dining room.

Included Activities:

  • Welcome Briefing

Accommodation:

  • Expedition Cruise Ship (Number of Nights: 1)
3
Day 3: At sea
As you sail, spend time out on deck or on the ship's bridge scanning the horizon for wildlife. Keep an eye out for wandering albatrosses on their lengthy migration routes, and look for the telltale splash of breaching whales or the dorsal fins of other mighty marine mammals breaking the water's surface. You could also settle in for presentations given by your expert Expedition Team, on topics like the behaviour of humpback whales, the life cycles of penguins, the formation of the Antarctic ice sheet and more. Evenings on board are equally memorable. After a day of learning and wildlife spotting, head to the warmth of the ship's Panorama Lounge. Enjoy a drink in hand as you swap stories with your fellow travellers, sharing the excitement of your journey.

Included Activities:

  • Daily Briefings and Recap
  • Citizen Science Program
  • Onboard Lecture Program

Optional Activities:

  • Onboard Gym - Free

Accommodation:

  • Expedition Cruise Ship (Number of Nights: 1)
4
Day 4-5: Falkland Islands
You’ll approach the Falkland Islands this morning – a wildlife photographer’s dream. Here, you can find the largest black-browed albatross colony in the world and five species of penguins that breed on the islands, including gentoo, king, Macaroni, Magellanic, and rockhopper. Once in Stanley, the capital, learn about the intriguing and controversial past of the Falkland Islands from local experts. Near the town, you may see southern giant petrels, Falkland steamer ducks, kelp gulls, dolphin gulls, black-crowned night herons, red-backed hawks, peregrine falcons and turkey vultures. Weather permitting, you may explore Saunders Island, the second-largest island in the Falklands, and The Neck, a narrow peninsula with sandy beaches and subtle cliff faces. On the afternoon of Day 5, following our morning excursion, farewell the Falkland Islands and sail towards South Georgia.

Included Activities:

  • Onboard Lecture Program
  • Daily Briefings and Recap
  • Citizen Science Program
  • Guided walking Excursions
  • Zodiac Excursion/Cruising

Optional Activities:

  • Onboard Gym - Free

Accommodation:

  • Expedition Cruise Ship (Number of Nights: 2)
5
Day 6-7: At sea
From the outer decks, keep your eyes on the horizon for seabirds and other passing wildlife as we settle in for two days at sea on route to South Georgia. This remarkable destination offers many experiences, from fascinating history and geology to incredible wildlife encounters. While on board the cosy Ocean Nova, take part in engaging presentations led by your Expedition Team, designed to prepare you for the wonders that await you at South Georgia.

Included Activities:

  • Onboard Lecture Program
  • Daily Briefings and Recap
  • Citizen Science Program

Optional Activities:

  • Onboard Gym - Free

Accommodation:

  • Expedition Cruise Ship (Number of Nights: 2)
6
Day 8-11: South Georgia
Over the next few days, you’ll explore the island of South Georgia, once the homestead of whalers and isolated explorers, and now a protected site with dedicated Antarctic research teams. You’ll explore various landing sites and learn about the history of Sir Ernest Shackleton, known for his incredible survival during a failed expedition south. You’ll spend several days retracing some of Shackleton’s steps and visiting his grave at the ex-whaling station of Grytviken, located on the east side. Wander among hundreds of thousands of king penguins in the dramatic South Georgian light, visit old whaling stations and enjoy educational presentations on the past and present of the area. Across the island, you’ll see dark volcanic beaches backgrounded by hanging glaciers and have the chance to go on day hikes among alpine lakes.

Included Activities:

  • Onboard Lecture Program
  • Daily Briefings and Recap
  • Citizen Science Program
  • Guided walking Excursions
  • Zodiac Excursion/Cruising

Optional Activities:

  • Onboard Gym - Free

Accommodation:

  • Expedition Cruise Ship (Number of Nights: 4)
7
Day 12-13: At Sea
During your next couple of days at sea, experience sweeping vistas from the Panorama Lounge or the outer decks. You should take this opportunity to relax and recharge or play games of cards at the bar with your shipmates. Whatever takes your fancy – the ship is yours to explore!

Included Activities:

  • Onboard Lecture Program
  • Daily Briefings and Recap
  • Citizen Science Program

Optional Activities:

  • Onboard Gym - Free

Accommodation:

  • Expedition Cruise Ship (Number of Nights: 2)
8
Day 14-18: South Shetland Islands & Antarctic Peninsula
Today, you’ll voyage south towards continental Antarctica. For the next five days, you’ll dedicate your time to searching for wildlife from land, ship and Zodiac. Weather permitting, you can look forward to at least two excursions each day, offering plenty of chances to immerse yourself in the stunning Antarctic landscape. With numerous landing sites to explore, your Expedition Team will carefully select the best options based on weather, accessibility and wildlife activity. Depending on the conditions, you may also have the chance to enhance your journey with optional adventures like camping on the ice (a serene and silent experience like no other), day paddling across icy waters or snowshoeing across untouched terrain. You’ll also have the opportunity to take a polar plunge off the Ocean Nova – a swift dip into Antarctica’s freezing waters that’s sure to leave you feeling refreshed and revitalised!

Included Activities:

  • Onboard Lecture Program
  • Citizen Science Program
  • Guided walking Excursions
  • Zodiac Excursion/Cruising
  • Daily Briefings and Recap

Optional Activities:

  • Snowshoeing (150 USD)
  • Day Paddle (349 USD)
  • Polar Plunge - Free
  • Camping (399 USD)
  • Onboard Gym - Free

Accommodation:

  • Expedition Cruise Ship (Number of Nights: 5)
9
Day 19-20: Antarctic Circle
Venturing to the ends of the earth is a moment to treasure, as not all expeditions venture this far south. If weather permits, a celebration will be held after reaching latitude 66°33’S and crossing the fabled Antarctic Circle. Toast to the sheer rawness of the surroundings and take it all in! While not a typical landing, the crossing of the Antarctic Circle leaves a lasting memory. You’ll travel past colossal icebergs to a point where only a few travellers have ever sailed.

Included Activities:

  • Onboard Lecture Program
  • Daily Briefings and Recap
  • Citizen Science Program
  • Zodiac Excursion/Cruising
  • Guided walking Excursions

Optional Activities:

  • Onboard Gym - Free

Accommodation:

  • Expedition Cruise Ship (Number of Nights: 2)
10
Day 21: South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula
As the Ocean Nova heads north, you’ll feel more confident navigating the wonders of the Antarctic waters. Test your newfound penguin expertise and sharpen your wildlife-spotting skills as you identify fur, leopard and Weddell seals. Zodiac cruises and shore landings will continue, offering ample opportunities to see the peninsula’s diverse wildlife and capture stunning photographs of your adventure.

Included Activities:

  • Onboard Lecture Program
  • Daily Briefings and Recap
  • Citizen Science Program
  • Guided walking Excursions
  • Zodiac Excursion/Cruising

Optional Activities:

  • Onboard Gym - Free

Accommodation:

  • Expedition Cruise Ship (Number of Nights: 1)
11
Day 22-23: At sea, Drake Passage
Settle back into your comfortable surroundings aboard the Ocean Nova for the return journey across the Drake Passage. The Ocean Nova will track north towards your destination of Ushuaia, Argentina, arriving into the calmer waters of the Beagle Channel by the evening of Day 23. During these final sea days, you can attend more onboard lectures and enjoy a slideshow of images captured by our Expedition Photographer during your voyage. Now is also the chance to catch up with your shipmates and share stories about your voyage over a meal or a drink at the bar.

Accommodation:

  • Expedition Cruise Ship (Number of Nights: 2)
12
Day 24: Disembarkation in Ushuaia, Argentina
After breakfast, say goodbye to the Ocean Nova, your Expedition Team and fellow travellers as you disembark in Ushuaia. A morning transfer to Ushuaia Airport or downtown is included.
Exclusions
  • Flights to and from origin and destinations
  • Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
  • Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
  • Recommended gratuities/tipping
  • Optional activities/tours
  • Personal expenses
  • Travel insurance
  • Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.
Important Information
Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We willdo our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an Average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling. (Note: I assume each tour has a different description depending on level of fitness required).

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

  • It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
  • Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
  • Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.
Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.
AUD $38,590
(Tour only)
Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 24 days

Trip Type: Group Tour

Activity Level: Light

Discover all that Antarctica has to offer on this epic 24-day expedition that explores the Falkland Islands, South Georgia islands and the Antarctic peninsula, including crossing the rarely seen Antarctic Circle!.

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 04 Jan 2027

View Map
Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

Book Now