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Antarctic Voyage with Galápagos and Peru

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Operated by APT
Tripcode: ISAAG32
Overview
Destination:
Argentina
Ecuador
Duration:32 days
Type:Group tour (max 45)
Style:
Land Tour,
Polar,
Travel Period
January 2028 - January 2028
2027 - Guayaquil to Buenos Aires, 2028 - Quito to Buenos Aires

Unearth the jewels of Antarctica and South America. Cruise through the wildlife-rich Galápagos Islands, explore fascinating mainland capitals in depth, and find remote wonders including the iconic Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. Then tick off the bucket list with a 10-night, once-in-a-lifetime cruise to the otherworldly Antarctic Peninsula.

Highlights
  • Explore over 5,000 years of Peruvian history at the Larco Museum, housed within an 18th-century viceroy’s mansion. Enjoy a guided tour of the museum's fascinating Peruvian artefacts before heading to the bougainvillea-covered gardens for lunch.

  • Set off on a luxury rail journey aboard Inca Rail’s First Class Machu Picchu Train. Travel through the scenic Sacred Valley en route to the famed Lost City of the Incas, delighting in magnificent views and savouring a delicious Andean-inspired lunch on board.

  • Pay a visit to a private hacienda for an immersive encounter with the nation’s regional traditions. Sit down to a lunch of traditional fare and enjoy a Peruvian Paso horse show.

  • Take a tour of Tierra del Fuego National Park, where you can experience the rugged natural beauty of Argentina’s southern tip. If you’re lucky, you may spot a roaming guanaco (a close relative of the llama).

  • Explore the pristine wilderness of the Antarctic Peninsula on a unique itinerary, designed to maximise your discovery with thrilling Zodiac excursions and immersive shore landings.

Highlights:
Itinerary
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Day 1 - Arrive Quito

Be met on arrival in Quito and transferred to your hotel. This evening, meet your fellow travellers and Tour Director at a welcome dinner.

Day 2 - Quito

Enjoy a full day exploring the sights of Quito on a guided city tour, including Independence Square and Carondelet Palace. Visit the Jesuit church of Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús, one of the most signfiant examples of baroque architecture in South America. Cap off the tour at the hill of El Panecillo, the perfect vantage point to enjoy sweeping views of Quito’s cityscape and surrounding volcanoes. You can also observe the impressive statue at the hill’s summit, a replica of Quito’s Madonna. This afternoon, visit the Middle of the World Monument and enjoy the unique chance to stand on the dividing line between the northern and southern hemispheres. Afterwards, savour lunch at a local restaurant.

Day 3 - Quito

Today, explore beyond Quito on your chosen sightseeing experience.

Freedom of Choice – Otavalo Cultural Tour

Gain a glimpse into local culture in Otavalo. Stop by a local vegetable market, then explore the kaleidoscopic hub of Plaza de los Ponchos, home to the largest Indigenous market in South America. Be dazzled by the sheer volume of handicrafts, from colourful textiles to alpaca wool garments, then visit the workshops of talented artisans.

Freedom of Choice – Mindo Cloud Forest Nature Tour

Discover the natural splendour of Mindo, situated in the Ecuadorian cloud forest. Visit a butterfly farm, explore the Orchid Garden, and marvel at the chance to spot hummingbirds and other bird species.

Freedom of Choice – Cotopaxi National Park

Stop by the Sangolquí market to sample local produce en route to the breathtaking Cotopaxi National Park, nestled in the Ecuadorian Andes. Take in the awe-inspiring landscapes, enjoy birdwatching, and gaze in wonder at the mighty Cotopaxi volcano — the centrepiece of the park.

Day 4 - Quito, Galápagos Islands

This morning, fly to Baltra Island in the heart of the Galápagos Islands National Park. Take a short ferry ride across the channel to Santa Cruz Island. Explore the island’s highlands and learn about its unique ecosystems and biodiversity before enjoying lunch. Afterwards, marvel at the archipelago’s famous giant tortoises in their natural habitat at a special reserve, which also features several lava tunnels. The final stop for the day is Puerto Ayora, where you will board your floating home for the next four nights, Yacht La Pinta.

Day 5 - Galápagos Islands

Explore Eden Islet off the coast of Santa Cruz Island this morning, where you may spot blue-footed boobies and reef sharks. Take the opportunity to snorkel or glide over the waters in a glass-bottom boat. Later in the day, discover the striking Sombrero Chino Islet, home to resident white-tipped reef sharks and Galápagos penguins.

Day 6 - Galápagos Islands

This morning, visit the otherworldly Bartolomé Island, an extinct volcanic islet known for its dramatic red, orange and black rock formations. A steep but rewarding climb up the summit trail offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding volcanic landscape. Afterwards, set out on a scenic dinghy ride, then choose to relax on the beach, snorkel in the crystal-clear turquoise waters, or discover the underwater ecosystem from a glass-bottom boat. Following lunch on board, you have the option to travel by pangas to Sullivan Bay.

Day 7 - Galápagos Islands

Explore Darwin Bay and Prince Philip’s Steps on Genovesa Island, known as Bird Island for its remarkable diversity of bird species. Enjoy the chance to observe an array of marine and land birds, with time to swim and snorkel.

Day 8 - Galápagos Islands, Guayaquil

This morning, bid farewell to Yacht La Pinta and head to Baltra Island airport for your return flight to Guayaquil. This evening, savour a delicious dinner.

Day 9 - Guayaquil, Lima

Fly to Lima and enjoy time at leisure before meeting the fellow travellers joining your tour at dinner.

Day 10 - Lima

Discover Lima on a panoramic city tour. Cover the must-see sights, including the World Heritage-listed Historic Centre of Lima, Basilica and Convent of San Agustín and Plaza Mayor. Then, enjoy a Signature Experience before spending the remainder of the afternoon at leisure.

Signature Experience Larco Museum

Explore over 5,000 years of Peruvian history at the Larco Museum, housed within an 18th-century viceroy’s mansion. Enjoy a guided tour of the museum's fascinating Peruvian artefacts before heading to the bougainvillea-covered gardens for lunch.

Day 11 - Lima, Cusco, Sacred Valley

Farewell Lima this morning and fly to Cusco, bound for the inspiring landscapes of the Sacred Valley. Here, an enriching Signature Experience awaits.

Signature Experience – Hacienda Sarapampa Lunch

Visit Hacienda Sarapampa, a family-owned estate specialising in the production of giant white corn. Indulge in a farm-to-table three-course lunch showcasing Andean cuisine as you learn about the history of the farm, as well as the behind-the-scenes work that goes into corn production.

Day 12 - Sacred Valley, Maras, Moray

Travel to a small community tucked away in the Sacred Valley hillside, where you’ll enjoy a Signature Experience. Continue exploring the Sacred Valley with a guide, including another Signature Experience which takes you to the Salt Mines of Maras and Moray terraces. In the evening, savour a delectable dinner at your hotel. 

Signature Experience – Traditional Weaving Demonstration

Be welcomed by the local Misminay community before watching a traditional weaving demonstration. Discover how Peru’s colourful textiles are created by hand as you learn about the craft, which has been passed down through generations. Then, enjoy a traditional lunch with views of the Andes mountains and surrounding valleys. 

Signature Experience – Salt Mines of Maras and Moray Terraces

See the glistening salt pools spill over the terraced slopes at the World Heritage-listed Salt Mines of Maras. Afterwards, visit the fascinating Incan circular terraces at the Moray archaeological site. 

Day 13 - Machu Picchu

Today, embark on an incredible rail journey to Aguas Calientes during your Signature Experience. Upon arrival, you’ll be fully immersed in the natural setting and incredible heritage of Machu Picchu as you set off on a locally guided exploration of the Lost City of the Incas, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. This evening, enjoy dinner at the hotel.

Signature Experience – Inca Rail First Class Machu Picchu Train

Travel on Inca Rail’s First Class Machu Picchu Train and journey through forested landscapes to the township of Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Enjoy a gourmet Andean-inspired lunch on board while taking in the magnificent views that unfold before you.

Day 14 - Machu Picchu, Cusco

This morning, enjoy free time to explore the city of Aguas Calientes. Later, board the PeruRail Vistadome Machu Picchu Train for your return trip to the Sacred Valley, where you will indulge in lunch at a local restaurant on arrival. Afterwards, transfer by coach to Cusco and settle into your hotel, primely located in the heart of this historic city.

Day 15 - Cusco

A guided walking tour through Cusco takes you to the stunning square in the city’s heart, the Plaza de Armas, as well as the sacred sites of Koricancha and Cusco Cathedral. Later, choose your Freedom of Choice activity before dinner this evening at MAP Café, an iconic and renowned eatery of Cusco set in the courtyard of the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art.

Freedom of Choice – Peruvian Cooking Class

Indulge in the vibrant flavours of Peru with a hands-on cooking class, discovering traditional dishes and ingredients.

Freedom of Choice – Sacsayhuamán Citadel Visit

Explore the 15th‑century Incan citadel of Sacsayhuamán, famed for its dry‑stone walls.

Day 16 - Cusco, Lima

After breakfast, be transferred to the airport for your flight to Lima. Visit the ruins of Pachacamac, a pre-Columbian citadel built around AD 200. Here, discover the numerous ancient pyramids, temples and palaces that make up the complex. Continue to a private hacienda for a Signature Experience, then the rest of the day is yours to spend at leisure. 

Signature Experience – Peruvian Paso Horse Show

Pay a visit to a private hacienda and experience the nation’s time-honoured regional traditions. Sit down to a lunch of traditional fare and enjoy a captivating Peruvian Paso horse show. 

Day 17 - Lima, Buenos Aires

Fly to Buenos Aires and head for the elegant neighbourhood of Recoleta, where your luxurious hotel awaits.

Day 18 - Buenos Aires

Enjoy a day at leisure to explore the cosmopolitan city of Buenos Aires before gathering with your fellow travellers for a special reception this evening.

Day 19 - Buenos Aires

This morning, delve deeper into Buenos Aires’ sights on a city tour. Discover the must-visit destinations, including Recoleta Cemetery, the colourful streets of La Boca, and the trendy neighbourhood of Palermo. This evening, meet for a ship briefing in anticipation of your exciting cruise ahead.

Day 20 - Buenos Aires, Ushuaia, Embark Antarctica Cruise

Board your included exclusive APT flight to Ushuaia and join a guided tour of Tierra del Fuego. After a light lunch, board the ultra-luxury expedition ship Seabourn Venture to begin your 10-night cruise through the Antarctic Peninsula. Be greeted by your Expedition Leader and a team of expert naturalist guides. Settle in before enjoying a captain’s welcome dinner. Afterwards, head to the deck to take in the stunning scenery of the Beagle Channel.

Signature Experience Tierra del Fuego National Park Tour

Take a tour of Tierra del Fuego National Park, where you can experience the rugged natural beauty of Argentina’s southern tip. If you’re lucky, you may spot a roaming guanaco (a close relative of the llama).

Day 21 - Drake Passage

Sail across the Drake Passage, the cruising gateway to Antarctica. Learn about the adventures ahead during informative, interactive and entertaining presentations on the wildlife, history and geology of Antarctica, delivered by your expert Expedition Team.

Day 22 - Antarctic Peninsula

On arrival in Antarctica, your itinerary exploring this magical world of ice and water becomes flexible. Your Captain will chart a course based on the most exciting sights and the most favourable ice and weather conditions. Each day on your cruise you’ll enjoy Zodiac excursions. Visit penguin rookeries, seal colonies and keep an eye out for orca, humpback and minke whales that frequent these waters. Head to Deception Island, an active volcano once home to a whaling station. You may also have the opportunity to stop at the Port Lockroy scientific base. From here, you can send a postcard with a rare Antarctic stamp.

Signature Experience Zodiac Expeditions

Delight in a unique itinerary which allows you to maximise your discovery of the enchanting Antarctic Peninsula, from thrilling Zodiac expeditions to enthralling shore landings.  

Day 23 - Antarctic Peninsula

On arrival in Antarctica, your itinerary exploring this magical world of ice and water becomes flexible. Your captain will chart a course based on the most exciting sights, guided by favourable ice and weather conditions. Each day brings unforgettable Zodiac excursions and shore landings. Explore penguin rookeries, visit seal colonies, and keep watch for orcas, humpback whales and minke whales as they roam these pristine waters. Head to Deception Island, an active volcano once home to a whaling station. You may also have the opportunity to stop at the Port Lockroy scientific base. From here, you can send a postcard with a rare Antarctic stamp.

Signature Experience – Zodiac Expeditions and Shore Landings

Explore the Antarctic Peninsula on a unique itinerary, designed to maximise your discovery with thrilling Zodiac excursions and immersive shore landings.

Day 27 - Drake Passage

Return to South America across the Drake Passage. Enjoy time on board and continue wildlife spotting.

Day 28 - Drake Passage

Return to South America across the Drake Passage. Enjoy time on board, making the most of your ultra-luxury ship's exceptional social spaces, wellness amenities, world-class dining venues, and enriching lectures. Continue wildlife spotting and soak up the spectacular seascapes unfolding before you.

Day 29 - Disembark Ship, Ushuaia, Buenos Aires

Today, disembark your ship in Ushuaia and fly to Buenos Aires on your included exclusive APT flight, then be transferred to your hotel.

Day 30 - Disembark Ship, Ushuaia, Buenos Aires

Today, disembark your ship in Ushuaia and fly to Buenos Aires on your included exclusive APT flight, then be transferred to your hotel.

Day 31 - Buenos Aires

The choice is yours today with a selection of activities on offer. A farewell dinner awaits this evening — a fiery tango show accompanied by a delicious meal.

Freedom of Choice – Tigre Cruise

Head to the island town of Tigre and enjoy a cruise along the rivers and canals of the Paraná Delta.

Freedom of Choice – Parisian City Walking Tour

Discover the Parisian character of Buenos Aires, visiting Plaza San Martín, Plazoleta Pellegrini and more.

Freedom of Choice – Teatro Colón Tour

Immerse yourself in Buenos Aires’ sophisticated high-arts scene on a fascinating tour of the iconic and majestic Teatro Colón, considered one of world’s leading opera houses thanks to its impeccable acoustics.

Day 32 - Depart Buenos Aires

Following breakfast, your Antarctic and South American adventure comes to an end with a transfer to the airport for your onward flight.

Dates

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Travellers

Operator
APT

APT Luxury Travel offers all-inclusive, all taken care of and all-inspiring luxury cruises, tours and rail journeys. As Australia’s largest family-owned tour and cruise company, we are committed to delivering unforgettable travel experiences to our valued guests. What began as just a vision, over 90 years ago, has now grown into a proud global business, demonstrating the power of dreaming fully.

Important Information
*Terms and conditions
Please note: We are proud to be an independent agent to travel providers of hotels, flights and other related services. We are not a tour operator. Details and information on the offer are provided by 3rd party businesses and although we do our best to verify the information, we cannot guarantee its accuracy on all occasions. These offers are not available in conjunction with any other offer unless otherwise stated. Pricing and availability are subject to change without notice. For more information, please see Terms of Use
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per person twin share
31 nights
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