Central and South America

Frontiers of Patagonia: Cape Horn, Tierra del Fuego and Beyond

Duration:
14 Days
Price:
From $8,195
Interests:
Natural History
Organize This Trip Print Itinerary
Zodiac excursion
Guanaco
Wulaia Bay
Magellanic Penguin
Flora in Patagonia
Tierra del Fuego National Park
Lake Pehoe
Águila Glacier
Ushuaia
Organize This Trip
Organize This Trip

About this trip

Knife-edged Andean peaks, electric-blue fjords, teeming rookeries and vast steppes: Patagonia promises adventure on a grand scale, and you will experience it, by land and sea. Aboard the new, state-of-the-art M/V Ventus Australis, your small group will hug the coast at the bottom of the world, served by a multidisciplinary team who will explain the science and history behind the beauty. Discover the skyscraping splendor of Torres del Paine National Park, the roiling seas of Drake Passage and Cape Horn National Park, sparkling glacial lakes and old ports where whalers and adventurers sailed in the wake of Magellan and Darwin. A Chilean winery in Santiago and a tango show in Buenos Aires add color and contrast to your wilderness adventure.
NOTE:  Please ask us about possible discounts for travel during March and October.

Highlights

  • Hike the trails at Tierra del Fuego National Park, enjoying breathtaking scenery near the continent’s southernmost tip.
  • Cruise in comfort aboard M/V Ventus Australis through the fjords, bays, and open seas from Ushuaia to Punta Arenas.
  • Marvel at Torres del Paine’s dramatic lakes, glaciers, and waterfalls, as well as the distinctive granite peaks for which the park is named.
  • Experience the sultry tango in Buenos Aires.
  • Sample the sophisticated pleasures of Santiago and the Chilean wine country.
  • Learn about the native Yámana people and their interactions over the centuries with international missionaries, explorers, and scientists.
  • Visit Magdalena Island to view a colony of more than 120,000 Magellanic Penguins.
  • Taste Fuegian specialties with a local chef during a private dinner.
11 Travelers

$8,195

Land Cost

Group size

Book 10 travelers and 1 group
leader travels for free

What makes us different

Service anytime

Enjoy worry-free travel — our emergency line is monitored 24/7/365 so we can assist you if any problems arise while you’re traveling with us

Sustainable travel

We believe travel should have a positive impact on the world. We are committed to maintaining responsible travel practices and partner with ClimateSafe to provide carbon offsetting.

Custom-tailored trips

We can customize your itinerary so that it’s the ideal match for your interests, travel dates, and budget

Low stress travel planning

We take care of all the details so you know your trip will be smooth sailing

Support local communities

We work with local guides and organizations so your trip includes authentic cultural experiences while supporting the economy of the region

Flight arrangements

We’re a full service travel provider and are happy to assist with arranging the flights for your group if desired

AND MORE!

See all the reasons why you should travel with Holbrook

What makes us different

Daily Itinerary

Print Itinerary
Depart
Day 1
Depart U.S. on an overnight flight to Buenos Aires.
Buenos Aires
Day 2
Arrive at the Ministro Pistarini de Ezeiza International Airport and meet your Holbrook representative in the arrivals hall. Transfer to the hotel with free time until orientation in the afternoon.We will begin by walking a little over a half mile in total from the hotel and around the historic site on the mostly smooth, paved streets of the city. The Plaza de Mayo is the main square of Buenos Aires and, from here, we will have the opportunity to see La Casa Rosada and La Catedral as well as other important historical monuments and buildings. We'll conclude our field trip at a local cellar/bar for a wine tasting activity and dinner while learning about some of Argentina's famed regional wines.
Lunch-Dinner included
725 Continental
Buenos Aires
Day 3
Have breakfast and then venture into the city by bus while a local provides commentary along the way.We will make stops at the La Plaza de Mayo, La Boca, San Telmo, and Recoleta. Recoleta neighborhood is well known for the undeniable European influence in architecture and its impressive mansions. It is also famous for La Recoleta Cemetery, where some of the most wealthy and influential families in Argentina lie their family members to rest. This is the final resting place for the controversial former President and First Lady Juan and Eva Peron. Next visit the vibrant La Boca neighborhood, a working class barrio rich with culture thanks to its central role in the city’s immigration story. This neighborhood is characterized by its distinctive, colorful buildings. The Plaza de Mayo lies San Telmo, one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods. maintaining its charm of the past complete with cobbled streets and original architecture from as early as the 17th century. Have lunch and then this afternoon return to the hotel for time at leisure. This evening, meet in a hotel meeting room for a Tango lecture. Originating in the 1890’s on the border of Argentina and Uruguay, tango is a partner dance that is included in the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Lists. Transfer to a local restaurant for dinner and a Tango Show.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
725 Continental
Ushuaia
Day 4
Depart for the airport to catch the approximately 3.5 hour flight to Ushuaia, one of the southernmost cities in the world and a popular starting point for expeditions to Antarctica. Snacks will be provided during the flight. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel and have time to freshen up. This evening, have a special dinner at the hotel with a local chef to learn about Fuegian cuisine.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Celine del Faro
Tierra del Fuego
Day 5
After breakfast visit Tierra del Fuego National Park, the country’s first shoreline park. Native forests of lengas, coihues, ñires, canelos, and mossy foliage are home to guanacos, foxes, and muskrats. Short trails follow the southern edges of the park, providing visitors with scenic views of the Ensenada and Lapataia Bays and the famous Beagle Channel. Sea birds are abundant along the coast and include albatross, terns, geese, ducks, and gulls. Be on the lookout for condors, Magellanic Woodpeckers, and Austral Conures. A five-mile trail leading west from Bahía Ensenada passes through an area of archaeological importance, where you’ll see grass-covered shell mounds left by the Yámana inhabitants hundreds of years ago. Next, enjoy a typical lamb asado lunch followed by some free time. Later transfer to Ushuaia’s port to begin embarkation procedures on the boat. After a welcome cocktail reception hosted by the captain and his crew, the ship departs for one of the most remote corners of planet Earth. During the night traverse the Beagle Channel and cross from Argentina into Chilean territorial waters. The lights of Ushuaia disappear as the boat turns into the narrow Murray Channel between Navarino and Hoste islands.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
M/V Ventus Australis, A Cabin
Cruising
Day 6
Around the break of dawn, Australis crosses Nassau Bay and enters the remote archipelago that comprises Cape Horn National Park. Weather and sea conditions permitting, go ashore on the windswept island that harbors legendary Cape Horn (Cabo de Hornos). Discovered in 1616 by a Dutch maritime expedition and named after the town of Hoorn in West Friesland Cape Horn is a sheer, 1,394-foot-high rocky promontory overlooking the turbulent waters of the Drake Passage. For many years it was the only navigation route between the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans and was often referred to as the "End of the Earth." The park was declared a World Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 2005. The Chilean navy maintains a permanent lighthouse on the island, staffed by a lightkeeper and his family, as well as the tiny Stella Maris Chapel and modern Cape Horn Monument (currently awaiting repair after being damaged by fierce winds). Sailing back across Nassau Bay, anchor at fabled Wulaia Bay, one of the few places in the archipelago where the human history is just as compelling as the natural environment. Originally the site of one of the region’s largest Yámana aboriginal settlements, the bay was described by Charles Darwin and sketched by Captain FitzRoy in the 1830s during their voyages on HMS Beagle. This area is also renowned for its mesmerizing beauty and dramatic geography. After a visit to the Australis-sponsored museum in the old radio station which is especially strong on the Yámana people and European missionaries in the area have a choice of three hikes (of increasing degrees of difficulty) that ascend the heavily wooded mountain behind the bay. On all of these, stroll through an enchanted Magellanic forest of lengas, coihues, canelos and ferns to reach panoramic viewpoints overlooking the bay.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
M/V Ventus Australis, A Cabin
Cruising
Day 7
Overnight we continue our Patagonia glacier tour around the western end of Tierra del Fuego via the very narrow Gabrial Channel, Magdalena Channel and Cockburn Channel. After rounding the remote Brecknock Peninsula, Ventus Australis tacks eastward and enters the Beagle Channel again. By morning we are entering Pia Fjord and boarding the Zodiacs for a shore excursion to Pia Glacier.After disembarking we take a short hike to gain a panoramic view of the spectacular glacier, which extends from the mountaintops down to the sea or a longer much more difficult walk up a lateral moraine of the old Pia Glacier. No one knows for certain how the hulking mass of snow and ice got its feminine moniker, but one theory says it was named for Princess Maria Pia of Savoy (1847-1911), daughter of the Italian king. Making our way further west along the Beagle Channel, we enter another long fjord and drop anchor near Garibaldi Glacier for another shore excursion. Garibaldi is one of only three glaciers in Patagonia gaining mass rather than staying the same or slowly shrinking. This time we hike through virgin Magellanic forest to a glacial waterfall, a towering wall of ferns and moss, and spectacular viewpoints looking down on the glacier and fjord. The walk is demanding -- very steep, negligible trail, rough footing -- and not for everyone. For those who choose to stay onboard, our captain will point the bow towards the beautiful sky blue Garibaldi Glacier so everyone can enjoy the panoramic view from the upper decks.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
M/V Ventus Australis, A Cabin
Cruising
Day 8
Early in the morning, we will sail through the Cockburn Channel and enter Agostini Sound. From there it is possible to see the glaciers that descend from the middle of the Darwin Mountain Range -- some of them reaching the water. This morning, we will disembark and go for an easy walk around a lagoon, which was formed by the melting of the Águila Glacier. We will reach a spot right in front of that glacier with stunning views. In the afternoon, we will approach the Condor Glacier via Zodiac -- and hopefully see some of the abundant Andean Condors in the area
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
M/V Ventus Australis, A Cabin
Torres del Paine
Day 9
After an overnight cruise through Magdalena Channel and back into the Strait of Magellan, anchor off Magdalena Island, which lies about halfway between Tierra del Fuego and the Chilean mainland. Crowned by a distinctive lighthouse, the island used to be an essential source of supplies for navigators and explorers and is inhabited by an immense colony of Magellanic Penguins. At the break of dawn, weather permitting, go ashore and hike a path that leads through thousands of penguins to a small museum lodged inside the vintage 1902 lighthouse. Many other bird species are also found on the island. In September and April when the penguins dwell elsewhere this excursion is replaced by a ride aboard Zodiacs to Marta Island to observe South American sea lions. After a short cruise south along the strait, disembarkation at Punta Arenas is scheduled for around 11:30 am. Have a quick look of this traditional Patagonic city and then begin the transfer to Torres del Paine with boxed lunch and while admiring Patagonia's breathtaking vistas, snow peaked mountains and rolling plains dotted with guanacos along the way. Arrive the hotel situated along the southern border of the Torres del Paine National Park and check in. Dinner and orientation.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Hotel del Paine
Torres del Paine
Day 10
This morning drive across Torres del Paine National Park with views of Paine Grande and its snowy peaks as well as Los Cuernos, the famous mountain with black granite, horn-like spires. Walk along the shores of stunning Lake Pehoe and visit the furious Salto Grande Falls which pour the waters of Lake Nordenskjold into Pehoe. Continue over the gentle Nordenskjold Trail until reaching its picture-perfect lookout point. After returning to the vehicle back at Lake Pehoe, drive south to a beach along the shores of glacial Lake Grey to have a boxed lunch. Continue with a walk around Lake Grey for a better view of the glacier. Return to hotel.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Hotel del Paine
Torres del Paine
Day 11
After breakfast explore the scenery along the route to Laguna Azul, situated on the northeastern side of the park. Admire the local flora and fauna and the picturesque landscapes including the beautiful Paine Waterfall. Upon arrival at Laguna Azul, hike to a lookout point for a breathtaking view of the lagoon and the granite towers that give the park its name. Continue along the eastern side of Lago Sarmiento to the calcium formations on the shores where guanacos are sometimes seen.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Hotel del Paine
Santiago
Day 12
Say farewell to Torres del Paine during a final breakfast at the camp, and then depart toward Puerto Natales with a boxed lunch from Ruben's. Stop en route to visit the massive prehistoric Milodón Cave, where the remains of a giant ground sloth were discovered in the 1890s. The site is located in a transition zone where forests and arid plains meet, and is home to a large number of bird species. Continue to Puerto Natales; at around 2:30 pm or later this afternoon, fly to Santiago and then transfer to the hotel for dinner and overnight. PLEASE NOTE: The location we are flying out of is based on the flight schedule. If Puerto Natales is not operating, we will drive to Punta Arenas and then take a flight to Santiago. If flights depart before 2:30 pm, the Milodón Cave visit will instead take place on the day you arrive to Torres del Paine.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Atton Vittacura
Depart
Day 13
After breakfast, depart for a winery and vineyard located just outside of Santiago. Led by a local expert, learn about the local viniculture before enjoying in a wine tasting. Chilean wines are becoming more and more popular around the world as they continue to win prizes at prestigious international wine tasting competitions. After a farewell lunch at a local restaurant, return to the hotel, followed by time at leisure to get some rest, do some last-minute packing and get ready for the flight back home. The dayroom is available until 6 pm. Have late afternoon refreshments at the hotel before heading out to the airport to catch international flights to the U.S.
Breakfast-Lunch- included
Atton Vittacura - Dayroom
Arrive
Day 14
Arrive United States
11 Travelers

$8,195

Land Cost

Group size

Book 10 travelers and 1 group
leader travels for free

What's Included
  • Activities and meals as mentioned in itinerary
  • Carbon Offset
  • Local guide during tours only
What's Not Included
  • International airfare
  • Tips
  • Trip cancellation coverage
Pricing Details
Rates are based on double occupancy for participants.

Prices are valid for travel from Jan 1, 2025 - Dec 15, 2027. Holiday surcharges may apply.

Travel Info

Print Travel Info

Activity Level 3: Moderate

This multifaceted adventure combines natural exploration by land and sea, with urban discovery in two iconic South American capitals. The 5-day expedition cruise portion of your journey brings you to Patagonian fjords, inlets, islands and shores for daily hikes, often with varying options for level of challenge. You’ll hike flat forest paths, sandy and rocky beaches, and more intense trails through rugged glacial landscapes. Onboard your comfortable expedition ship you can expect mainly smooth sailing, but in Cape Horn National Park there can be high winds and rough seas. Many excursions use Zodiac landing craft. Other activities include visits to a penguin colony and a winery, and touring in Buenos Aires. The highest altitudes are less than 3,600 feet, in Torres del Paine National Park. Patagonia is generally cool, with average daily highs between 43˚–72˚F, depending on season. Summer (December–March) is the best time to travel. There are two internal flights plus overland transfers in private motorcoaches.

Entry & Exit Requirements

U.S. and Canadian citizens must have a valid passport to enter Argentina and Chile. Passports must be valid for at least the duration of your stay. (As requirements are subject to change at any time without notice, we strongly recommend at least six months' validity.)

Neither country requires a visa for visits up to 90 days.

You must present proof of mandatory travel medical insurance for entry into Argentina. Your travel insurance policy must be valid for the full duration of your trip and include coverage for medical and hospital care, accidents or illnesses (including COVID-19), 24/7 emergency assistance, and medical evacuation and repatriation.

A tourist card is required for U.S. citizens entering Chile and is issued upon arrival. This card allows visitors to stay for up to 90 days and will allow multiple entries. Keep the tourist card with your passport; it is important not to lose it, as you must present the card to Customs when you leave the country.

If you are not traveling with a U.S. passport, please check with the Argentine and Chilean embassies for the requirements based on your nationality.

Health Information

IMMUNIZATIONS

The Centers for Disease Control recommends that all travelers be up to date on routine vaccinations such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-pertussis-tetanus vaccine, varicella (chicken pox) vaccine, and your yearly flu shot before every trip.

There are no vaccinations required for entry into Argentina or Chile.

Though not required, the CDC recommends vaccination against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and typhoid for most travelers to Argentina and Chile.

Please consult your physician for additional information and recommendations based on your individual circumstances.

SEA SICKNESS

If you’re prone to feeling queasy, we suggest you consult your physician for advice on the best ways to prevent motion sickness. We recommend that you avoid showering when the boat is in motion and remain cautious of activities while passing through rocky waters.

SUN EXPOSURE

The effects of the sun can be damaging to the eyes and skin. Spending time outdoors exposes you to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, even on cloudy days. To protect yourself from the sun, use a broad spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 15, protect skin with clothing, wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, and drink plenty of fluids.

Resources

Print Resources

Packing Recommendations

Everyone has personal preferences when it comes to packing; for this reason, the information below is offered as a general guide and not a definitive list. You know yourself best: Use your discretion and pack what you think will serve you, based on your personal preferences and specific itinerary.

You may find many of the items below in the New Headings Gear Store. Use code HolbrookGuest10 for a 10% discount on your purchase.

CLOTHING

Casual, comfortable clothing is suitable for most activities. You may wish to bring a slightly nicer outfit or two for dinners out or more formal activities. Keep in mind that locals tend to dress conservatively.

Bring enough clothing suitable for the length of your program. If you prefer to pack light, note that many hotels offer laundry services at an additional cost. Pack clothing that can be worn in layers to adapt to weather changes throughout the day.

  • Jackets: Pack clothing that can be worn in layers and include a polar fiber or down jacket as well as a pair of gloves. A sweater, vest, and down jacket may be needed for cool nights or at higher elevations.
  • Shirts: Several short- and long-sleeved T-shirts to layer under a sweatshirt and jacket as needed
  • Shorts: Patagonia has cool weather year-round, but you may wish to pack a pair of shorts in case of a warm spell during the summer months (December– March).
  • Light- and mediumweight long pants, trousers, jeans, or khakis
  • Underclothing, socks, and sleepwear: Bring some thin, synthetic socks (liner socks), heavy woolen socks, and a few pairs of thermal underwear (polypropylene or silk) for the hikes. Underwear, socks, and nightwear should be lightweight and designed to dry quickly. You may wish to pack a fleece top and pants to sleep in.
  • Headgear: Include a hat (preferably with a wide brim) for sun protection. A tie under the chin is helpful in case of windy conditions. Beanie hats are excellent for windy conditions.
  • Bathing suit: Pools are available at some hotels.
  • Shoes: You’ll likely want at least one pair of comfortable, closed-toe walking or hiking shoes or boots suitable for outdoor hikes and walking over cobblestones or other uneven terrain. In addition, many participants opt for a pair of sturdy sport-strap sandals (e.g. Keens, Tevas, or similar) and/or casual flip-flops or sandals for around your accommodations.
  • Rain gear: A pair of rain pants and jacket with full side zips (Gore-Tex shell or similar for both) or a long, hooded rain poncho to cover you and your gear
  • Bandana, scarf, or neck gaiter

PERSONAL TOILETRIES

Pack toiletries based on your personal preferences and habits. Below are just a few recommendations to keep in mind.

  • Shampoo, conditioner, lotion, deodorant/antiperspirant , etc.
  • Soap and washcloth or a small, quick-drying microfiber towel – Washcloths are not standard in all hotels. If you normally use a washcloth, you may wish to bring one from home.
  • Hairbrush, comb, hair ties, shower cap. Most—but not all—hotel rooms provide a hair dryer, but you may wish to bring one from home.
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Razor
  • Ear plugs, especially if you are a light sleeper
  • Personal hygiene products
  • Insect repellent
  • Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
  • Aloe vera gel
  • A travel pack of tissues – also useful as napkins or toilet paper if needed

In addition to your personal toiletries, it is useful to pack a small medical kit, which you can easily prepare. Helpful items might include: bandages, antihistamine, a pain reliever, motion sickness and/or altitude sickness medication (if you are prone to either), anti-diarrhea medicine, individually wrapped pre-moistened towelettes and/or hand sanitizer, antibiotic ointment, anti-fungal cream, moleskin for blisters, eye drops, tweezers, a mini sewing kit, and an extra pair of disposable contact lenses or eyeglasses if you wear them.

Miscellaneous

Remember to pack valuables such as your passport, cash/credit cards, and medications in your carry-on luggage.

  • Passport and photocopies of all travel documentation
  • Personal insurance card and travel insurance information
  • Money – ATM/credit card, traveler's checks, and/or cash; small bills in good condition are recommended
  • Prescription medicines (if applicable), with a copy of the prescription
  • Sunglasses with strap
  • Small day pack for hikes and excursions
  • Flashlight and/or head lamp
  • A pocket calculator or phone to assist with conversions and currency exchange
  • Binoculars with lens cleaner
  • Camera and related equipment, such as charger, lenses, and extra memory cards
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Non-perishable snacks
  • Pocket-knife or multipurpose tool - Pack in your checked luggage
  • Zip-top style bags – useful for packing toiletries, sorting clothing, storing damp or muddy shoes, or as a dry bag for protecting electronics)
  • Notepad or travel journal and pen
  • Music or reading material for down time, long bus drives, or on the airplane, and a portable bright light to read by
  • Collapsible walking stick or trekking poles with rubber tip
  • A small quantity of laundry detergent if you’ll be washing clothing by hand
  • Travel-size umbrella – Some people find this unwieldy to carry, while others find it offers better protection than a rain jacket alone.
  • Money belt
  • Plug adapter and voltage converter for electronics
  • Chargers for electronics
Want to subscribe to the Holbrook Explorer?
Sign up for our newsletter and get the latest updates on upcoming trips, deals, and more.
CAPTCHA
This question is for testing whether or not you are a human visitor and to prevent automated spam submissions.
Bucket List: Patagonia
In southern Chile and Argentina, Patagonia’s wild, open frontier includes fields of glaciers, jagged Andean peaks, deep-blue fjords, and glacial waterfalls. Find out more about this captivating landsc
Read More
How to Pack for Patagonia
Patagonia is known the world over for its breathtaking, remote, and sometimes challenging terrain, offering travelers rewarding opportunities for hiking, boating, and other activities.
Read More
You might also like one of these trips...
View All Trips to Join
View All Trips to Organize