Welcome to vibrant Rio de Janeiro, a city bursting with colour and energy. Here, sweeping golden beaches meet lush rainforest and lively favelas, all watched over by the iconic Christ the Redeemer. Days by the ocean blend into evenings alive with the rhythm of samba. Settle into the refined comfort of the Fairmont Rio de Janeiro Copacabana for a three-night Scenic Special stay, where sophisticated design meets exceptional service and world-class amenities.

This evening, begin your journey with a warm welcome dinner at a distinctive local restaurant, the perfect introduction to Rio’s rich flavours and hospitality.

Today, discover the beating heart of this exotic city. Take a fascinating walking tour through downtown Rio, home to the Metropolitan Cathedral and the Selaron Stairs. Learn about Rio’s history and culture and get a taste of the local lifestyle. Ride the cogwheel railway to the top of Corcovado Mountain to see the famous Christ the Redeemer statue, a national icon of Brazil.

For lunch, savour a mouth-watering Brazilian churrascaria experience, where expertly grilled meats are carved tableside and served in true local style.

Discover more of Rio with another full day in the city. 

Scenic Freechoice:
Embrace the diversity of Rio de Janeiro with one of these Scenic Freechoice options:

Botanical Garden: Walk through the World Heritage-listed biosphere reserve Jardim Botânico while learning about its unique history and its vital role in preserving Brazil's unique flora and fauna. Admire thousands of species of plants and look for curious monkeys.

Rio, City of Contrast: Take a fascinating walking tour through downtown Rio to see its most famous sights while hearing stories of the city’s history, culture and local lifestyle. Be immersed in the vibrant atmosphere of bustling marketplaces and feel the dynamic rhythm of daily life in this captivating city.

Scenic Sunset Drinks
Enjoy sunset at Sugarloaf Mountain, sipping drinks and savouring a local tapas dinner while taking in the breathtaking views of Rio at sunset.

Fly southwest across Brazil today to the awe-inspiring Iguazú Falls. The world’s largest waterfall system by volume, it stretches for more than 2.7 kilometres across the border of Brazil and Argentina. Enjoy a three-night Scenic Special Stay at the Gran Meliá Iguazú, the only hotel located within the Argentinian side of Iguazú National Park. A luxurious hotel close to the thundering waters.

Wake up early this morning to watch the sun rising over the falls, a truly unforgettable experience. Then enjoy a leisurely tour to discover the Brazilian side of the falls. Stand on the walkway in the middle and take in this vast spectacle with 275 individual cascades spread over a four-kilometre crescent shaped cliff. Enjoy lunch with a beautiful view inside the National Park.

After lunch, embark on an exhilarating jet boat adventure toward the base of the falls, where you’ll feel the refreshing spray on your face and the sheer power of the cascading water up close. 

Optional helicopter flight 
Take to the skies on an optional helicopter flight and soar above Iguazú Falls for a breathtaking bird’s-eye view of this natural wonder. (Additional cost, please book on tour.)

This morning, visit the Argentinian side of the falls before the park gates open to the public. Around 80 per cent of the falls are on this side of the border and the many walkways that thread between the upper and lower falls allow you to get closer into the cliff face. Walk to the lookout where you will see the famous Devil’s Throat, the largest and most formidable waterfall within the entire system. Be awed by the sheer volume of water cascading over the falls.

After one final glorious sunrise, bid farewell to the magnificent Iguazú Falls. This morning, fly south to Argentina’s vibrant capital, Buenos Aires, where you’ll be transferred to your elegant hotel for a three-night stay.

Discover the highlights and the hidden secrets of the famed ‘Paris of the Americas’ with your local guide today. Buenos Aires is an elegant city with pockets of colourful character, like Casa Rosada (the Pink House), the executive mansion and office of the Argentinian President. Explore soulful Recoleta, where leafy streets are lined with stylish boutiques, lavish townhouses and former palaces, as well as the famed Recoleta Cemetery, the resting place of eminent Argentinians like Eva Peron. Discover La Boca’s colourful Caminito, with its multicoloured houses, street stalls and festive atmosphere

Scenic Enrich
This evening, experience the passion of Argentine tango at the Gala Tango show, accompanied by a sumptuous dinner and Argentinian wine.

Indulge in another delicious breakfast before delving deeper into Buenos Aires.  

Scenic Freechoice:
Choose from these immersive experiences today:

Buenos Aires Street Art: Explore the city’s dynamic urban art scene on a guided tour led by a local artist. Venture beyond the typical tourist routes to uncover hidden murals, underground creativity, and open-air galleries tucked away in unexpected corners of the city.

Buenos Aires Culinary Delight: Discover the rich flavours of Argentine cuisine on a guided culinary tour through the city. Savor authentic dishes at local restaurants, dine at traditional parrillas (steakhouses), and indulge in Argentine wine along the way.

This morning, bid farewell to your Tour Director as you transfer to the port to begin the next chapter of your journey. Latin passion and European elegance combine to make Buenos Aires one of South America’s most captivating cities. Here, the Captain and crew will warmly welcome you on board Scenic Ikon with a glass of Champagne as you step aboard your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht for the start of your Expedition Voyage. Meet your fellow guests and take time to familiarise yourself with the exceptional spaces and amenities on board. Then head to the open deck to toast the beginning of your journey as the coastline slips from view.

Due to the extraordinary nature of this region, Discovery Excursions throughout your Expedition Voyage are dependent on the weather conditions. Your experienced Captain and specialist polar Discovery Team, who have made countless journeys to Antarctica and the Falkland Islands, will use their expertise to design your voyage from day to day, making the most of your time in this spectacular destination.

Surrounded by endless horizons and the deep blue of polar waters, this is your chance to relax and recharge before the extraordinary adventures that await. 

Join an introductory presentation about your polar expedition by the Discovery Team in the state-of-the-art theatre.  

Today, feel the excitement building as the Discovery Team shares with you all the details on how your Zodiac, helicopter^, submersible^ and other Discovery Excursions will work. Get familiar with the team and your polar equipment – your expedition kit includes an expedition parka and water bottle that are yours to take home, plus the use of specialised polar boots, trekking poles and specific equipment you need for kayak and stand-up paddleboard excursions. Between landings, your outdoor gear will be stored in a personal locker in our convenient Discovery Centre.  

Prepare yourself for unparalleled ‘pinch-me’ moments, and be exposed to the unpredictability of the region, with your expert team deciding the course of action in the coming days. 

The team will make every attempt to have many landings and Discovery Excursions, including zodiac tours, kayaking and optional helicopter^ flights and submersible^ dives. 

We believe the best way to experience an environmentally sensitive destination like Antarctica is with small groups of travellers. You will board the zodiacs according to your designated colour, where our expert Discovery Team will guide you, ensuring an unforgettable and unique adventure. 

Today, indulge in world-class dining, rejuvenate with a spa treatment#, or simply unwind on deck while watching for seabirds and the occasional glimpse of whales breaching the surface. With the vast, untouched wilderness of Antarctica on the horizon, every moment on board is infused with anticipation and awe. 

Take this time to savour the luxury, comfort and tranquillity of your voyage as we prepare to explore one of the most remote and breathtaking places on Earth. 

Be sure to check your daily program for the essential biosecurity and boot fitting schedule. And join the fascinating enrichment lecture on marine and seabird life – a captivating experience that will enhance your knowledge and connection to the natural world around you. 

During the day, the theatre comes alive with captivating lectures from our polar Discovery Team. Check the Daily Program on your TV for timing so that you can join these inspiring sessions. 

Another day to enjoy the exceptional amenities aboard — from gourmet cuisine to wellness treatments# — or simply bask in the crisp polar air on the open deck. Keep an eye on the horizon for seabirds gliding gracefully and perhaps even a whale surfacing nearby. 

During the day, the theatre comes alive with captivating lectures from our polar Discovery Team. Check the Daily Program on your TV for timing so that you can join these inspiring sessions. 

Remote and unspoiled, the Falkland Islands offer a breathtaking sanctuary for wildlife enthusiasts. Home to the world’s largest Gentoo penguin population, watch as they waddle along the shores, nesting and interacting in their natural environment. 

Spot black-browed albatross soaring above and keep an eye out for Cobb’s wren and the Falkland flightless steamer duck, two rare species only found here. For a deeper appreciation of this remarkable ecosystem, engage with the specialist polar Discovery Team – a dedicated group of geologists, historians, ornithologists, marine biologists and glaciologists who bring the magic of the Falklands to life through their unparalleled knowledge and passion. 

Scenic Discovery: Daily experiences during your Expedition Voyage may include cruising on zodiacs, landing ashore to view vast penguin rookeries, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding~, soaring above in the helicopters^ and diving below in the submersible^.  

During our visit to the Falkland Islands, weather and operational conditions permitting, you’ll have the opportunity to explore Stanley, the charming capital. This town reflects a distinctive British outpost character, where you can browse local shops, admire the iconic Christ Church Cathedral with its famous whalebone arch, or enjoy a relaxing pint at a traditional English pub. 

As you sail across the vast Southern Ocean, take a moment to immerse yourself in the serenity of this remote and awe-inspiring environment. The endless expanse of deep blue surrounds you, offering a perfect backdrop for reflection, relaxation and connection with nature. 

During the day, the theatre comes alive with captivating lectures from our polar Discovery Team. Check the Daily Program on your TV for timing so you can join these inspiring sessions. 

Today you will enter Antarctic waters, an unpredictable but stunningly beautiful environment that always surprises. Put on your complimentary polar parka and head out on deck to spot icebergs for the first time – a feeling that will stay with you forever.  

Watch out for whale blows in the distance. Your specialist polar Discovery Team is on hand to provide guidance, insightful information and answer any questions. 

During the day, the theatre comes alive with captivating lectures from our polar Discovery Team. Check the Daily Program on your TV for timing so you can join these inspiring sessions. 

Slide open the floor-to-ceiling doors of your verandah suite to see icebergs sculpted by nature and glacial mountains rising thousands of metres from the ocean. True magic awaits as you witness the incredible wildlife spectacle: from graceful seals to majestic whales and the delightful colonies of penguins that dot the landscape. 

Antarctica is a birdwatcher's delight, home to a huge variety of species. Keep your eyes peeled for wandering albatrosses, shearwaters, giant petrels and more. 

Due to the extraordinary nature of the region, Discovery Excursions throughout your Expedition Voyage are dependent on the ice and weather conditions. Your experienced Captain and Discovery Leader, who have made countless journeys to Antarctica, will use their expertise to design your voyage from day to day, making the most of 18–20 hours of daylight.   

Scenic Discovery: Explore by zodiac, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard~ with possible shore landings (weather and ice permitting). To see Antarctica from above or below the horizon book a helicopter flight^ or a submersible^ experience. 

Every day, set out on unforgettable zodiac excursions to explore breathtaking glaciated bays, tranquil channels and pristine landing sites. Your dedicated Discovery Team will guide you as you trek across the awe-inspiring Antarctic wilderness, and meet the adorable chinstrap, Adélie, and gentoo penguins that inhabit this magical region. 

Scenic Discovery: Enjoy daily Discovery Excursions. Cruise on the zodiacs around ice formations, step onto islands to view vast penguin rookeries and seals. Kayak or stand-up paddleboard past icebergs and hear the ice cracking and whales feeding below. Soar above the horizon in one of two helicopters^ or dive below in the submersible^ for further discovery.

Various species of penguins can be found in Antarctic and the sub-Antarctic region, with around 12 million living on the Peninsula, including Adélie, chinstrap, gentoo and the rare Emperor. Guided by the expert polar Discovery Team, you’ll get to witness colonies up close.  

Whales are another majestic creature you may encounter, whether a minke, humpback or orca. Watch them from the comfort of your ultra-luxury yacht, in a zodiac with an experienced Discovery Team member, or from their level in a kayak or stand-up paddleboard~ – a breathtaking experience. 

Scenic Discovery: When enjoying daily Discovery Excursions, ask your expert Discovery Leader for photography tips and guidance on how to spot the wildlife around you. They will help you enjoy these incredible moments while cruising on the zodiacs, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding around impressive ice formations. 

Explore by zodiac, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard~ with possible shore landings (weather and ice permitting). To see Antarctica from above or below the horizon book a helicopter flight^ or a submersible^ experience. 

From the moment it was discovered, Antarctica has held an irresistible allure for intrepid explorers. The bold exploits of legendary pioneers like Scott, Shackleton and Amundsen have fueled its mystique, inspiring generations to venture into this untamed wilderness. 

On this unforgettable day, you’ll cruise past Antarctica's stunning icy mountains, before stepping ashore by zodiac to immerse yourself in the true polar wilderness.  

In between Discovery Excursions, enjoy a warm specialty tea or coffee on board and watch the world float by. 

On board your ultra-luxury next-generation Discovery Yacht, Scenic Ikon, every moment is designed for comfort and camaraderie, with our inviting lounge offering the perfect space to relax and share unforgettable experiences with like-minded travellers. 

For those seeking an exhilarating experience, the legendary Polar Plunge awaits – an unforgettable moment of pure adrenaline in the icy waters, carefully planned by the Discovery Leader and Captain. If you prefer to stay warm, find a prime viewing spot and enjoy the spectacle as fellow guests take the plunge, then join them for a toast with a glass of whiskey or a steaming cup of hot chocolate. 

Scenic Discovery: Explore by zodiac, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard~ with possible shore landings (weather and ice permitting). To see Antarctica from above or below the horizon book a helicopter flight^ or a submersible^ experience.

As you navigate the legendary Drake Passage, embrace the raw power and vastness of one of the world’s most iconic seaways. This stretch of ocean, where the Atlantic meets the Pacific, is renowned for its abundant wildlife. 

From the comfort of your yacht, enjoy world-class amenities, perhaps relaxing in the lounge, savouring gourmet cuisine or rejuvenating with a spa treatment#. Keep watch for soaring albatrosses, playful dolphins and majestic whales that often accompany your passage. 

During the day, the theatre comes alive with captivating lectures from our polar Discovery Team. Check the Daily Program on your TV for timing so you can reflect on your journey through these inspiring sessions. 

As we sail away from the frozen continent, take this final day at sea to reflect on the extraordinary experiences and breathtaking landscapes you’ve witnessed. Join fellow guests for a meal or a drink and share your experiences of these magical moments. 

This is your final day on board your ultra-luxury yacht, so take the time to return to your favourite spots. 

This morning, bid farewell to your expert crew and fellow guests as your extraordinary journey comes to an end. After a final breakfast on board, disembark in Ushuaia and board your flight to Buenos Aires, carrying with you memories of an unforgettable Expedition Voyage in the pristine landscapes of Antarctica. 

Please book your flight to depart out of Buenos Aires after 09:30 PM.

#Spa treatments and services at additional cost. Daily activities may be subject to change; please consult your Daily Wonder for updates. +All drinks on board, including those stocked in your mini bar, are included, except for a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, Champagnes and spirits. Specialty restaurants require a reservation, enquire on board.
^Experiences on board our two helicopters and submersible are at additional cost, subject to regulatory approval, availability, weight restrictions, medical approval and weather, ice and tidal conditions. ~Kayak and stand-up paddleboard not available in all locations. 

The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the voyage will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information. Hotels are indicative and subject to change.