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Multi-Country Landmark Tours Holidays

Rio de Janeiro, Iguazu Falls, Buenos Aires & cruise to Antarctica

Gentoo Tour - 19 Night Itinerary

Experience Rio, Iguazu Falls and Buenos Aires and cruise to the Antarctic Peninsula on the classic style M/V Sea Spirit in a superior cabin for an exceptional tariff.

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Tour Route

Travel Highlights

  • Enjoy the wonderful cosmopolitan cities of Rio de Janeiro and Buenos Aires
  • Observe awe-inspiring Iguassu Falls from the Brazilian and Argentine sides
  • Sail to Antarctic on the M/V Sea Spirit with maximum 100 passengers 
  • Enjoy more time on excursions ashore in Antarctica than on large cruise ships
  • Staying in a superior cabin on board the Sea Spirit 
  • Explore the icy landscapes, with sheltered bays, huge glaciers and icebergs
  • Encounter penguins, sea birds, seals and whales on daily excursions ashore 

This itinerary can be tailored to your preferences by our specialist advisors, who can provide a guaranteed price based on your choice of departure date, route, duration, flights, cabin, hotels, transport and excursions.

Tour Itinerary

Copacabana cycling leisure

Rio de Janeiro - 4 Nights

Day 1 - Depart the UK and fly to Rio de Janeiro

Day 2 - Arrive in Rio

Day 3 - Guided tour of Rio

Day 4 - At leisure in Rio

Day 5 - At leisure in Rio

  • Full Description
  • Accommodation

Tuesday, 03 December 2024

Fly to Rio de Janeiro

Depart the UK on an overnight flight with British Airways to Rio de Janeiro.


Wednesday, 04 December 2024

Arrive in Rio de Janeiro

Arrive in Rio de Janeiro in the morning. On arrival, you will be met by our guide and transferred to the Ritz Copacabana Hotel hotel for a 4-night stay including accommodation and breakfast. Your guide will also provide a short introduction and orientation to the local area.


Thursday, 05 December 2024

Full day guided tour of Rio Rio de Janeiro

This morning, your guide will meet you at your hotel to take you on an in-depth tour of this most exhilarating and historic city.


Friday, 06 December 2024

At leisure in Rio de Janeiro

Today you are free to enjoy Rio at your own pace. Perhaps head for Ipanema beach or a coffee in cosmopolitan Leblon. Our guide can also arrange optional excursions, depending on your interests.


Saturday, 07 December 2024

At leisure in Rio de Janeiro

Your final day in Rio to enjoy as you please.

Hotel Arpoador

Rio de Janeiro - Tourist Hotel

Arpoador is a modern hotel with a relaxed, informal style symbolised by the casual designer uniforms worn by the staff. Ideally located between Ipanema and Copacabana, one side faces a busy street with large trees and the other side faces a charming pedestrian waterfront promenade along Ipanema beach and the sea. The hotel's restaurant room has a very pleasant veranda outside, with 10 tables, where you can sit, enjoy the food, the fresh air, sea breeze and ocean view; and literally step straight onto the promenade and onto the beach. Beware that the sea here is the open ocean with strong waves and currents. The restaurant serves breakfast and an excellent simple and creative menu of modern vegetarian dishes.

The rooms are modern, comfortable, functional and decorated in the contemporary minimalist style, with the standard rooms only 18 square meters; but with so much to do in Rio de Janeiro and nearby, you are unlikely to spend much time in the room.

Right at the top of the building, there is a small pool, bar, sitting area and magnificent view of the whole of Ipanema and Leblon with the city and the tall granite peak of Morro dos Dois Irmaos in the background. Within walking distance you have numerous bars, restaurants, cafes, shops and the famous beachfront walks along Copacabana, Ipanema and Leblon beaches. This area is the perfect location for all the best attractions that Rio de Janeiro has to offer.

Accommodation includes room and breakfast.

 

 

002

Ritz Copacabana

Rio de Janeiro - First Boutique

The Ritz Copacabana Boutique Hotel is situated just 100m from Copacabana white sandy beach's and close to the bars and restaurants.

The 46 modern rooms and suites are air-conditioned with cable TV, mini bar and free WiFi. The Ritz is an ideal retreat for leisure holiday in the centre of the action.

4542 Ritz Copacabana

Fairmont Copacabana

Rio de Janeiro - Luxury Hotel

Located by Copacabana Beach with views of Sugar Loaf Mountain, the Fairmont Rio de Janeiro, Copacabana is one of the top luxury hotels in Rio. The hotel has been inspired by the glamour carioca in the 1950's, with elegant and stylish public areas and guest rooms.

The hotel has two swimming pools, a spa, sauna, fitness centre and bars. The restaurant offers breathtaking ocean views, with the freshest seafood and premium meats grilled in a Josper charcoal over, lending the dishes a lightly and unique smoky aroma.

There are 375 air-conditioned double or twin rooms, with 52 suites decorated in blue tones inspired in the colours of Copacabana sea, offering generous comfort and the best view of the wonderful city. In total, there are 10 room categories all with private bathroom and balcony. Gold Rooms offer a private lounge and exclusive services. 

The central location of the Fairmont Rio means it is perfect for either guided or independent sightseeing explorations. 

Copacabana Pool View
Iguassu waterfalls at close range

Iguazu Falls - 1 Night

Day 6 - Fly to Iguassu Falls (Brazilian Side) & onto the Argentinian side

  • Full Description
  • Accommodation

Sunday, 08 December 2024

Fly to the Iguassu Falls

Transfer to the airport for a domestic flight to Foz do Iguassu, where you will be met by our guide and explore the falls from the Brazilian side. Later in the afternoon, cross the border into Argentina and transfer to the Gran Melia Hotel for a 1-night stay including breakfast. The hotel is located directly next to the Argentinean side of the Iguazu waterfalls, so it is easily step onto the start of trails and explore this incredible sight from your hotel.  

La Cantera

Iguazu Falls - Tourist Lodge

Located in the forest outside of the town of Puerto Iguazu, and 15 minutes from the falls, La Cantera Jungle Lodge has rooms distrubited in a series of bungalows connected by raised walkways. The rooms are spacious  and well appointed, with a balcony looking out into the forest as well as private facilities and air conditioning. The hotel has a restaurant and a swimming pool with a terrace area for relaxing.

1972 La Cantera

Gran Melia Iguazu

Iguazu Falls - First Hotel

Set within the Iguazu National Park the Gran Melia Iguazu Hotel is a three-story hotel with spectaculars views of the magnificent Iguazu Falls. It is the only hotel with rooms that look directly over the Falls.

The superb public facilities include an infinity pool with views of the Iguazu Falls, the Yasi Spa and health club, 4 bars (the rooftop bar is a great place to enjoy a drink and the fantastic views) and the Merkado Restaurant serving international and Argentine specialities. 

The hotel has 177 guest rooms split by deluxe, red level and suite categories. All rooms are air-conditioned and extremely well-appointed with private bathroom, king size beds, safe, mini bar, TV and luxury in room amenities. 

From the hotel, you can easily walk to the nearby trails to observe the Falls, ideal for those who want to beat the tourist crowds and have more flexibility. The hotel also offers tango lessons, yoga classes and photographic tours.

The rates are on a room and breakfast basis.

Gran Melia Iguazu overlooking the falls

Awasi Iguazu

Iguazu Falls - Luxury Hotel

Awasi Iguazú is located on the Argentinian side of the Iguazú Falls. The hotel has the same philosophy as all Awasi hotels: assigning a private vehicle and guide per room to provide guests with personalised services and tailor-made experiences. 

The 14 suites (including one master suite) are located in a private reserve on the edge of the River Iguazú, just 15 minutes from the falls. Each room is stand-alone, and built on stilts for minimal environmental impact. Guests have their own independence and privacy whilst also being able to enjoy the communal area of the Main Lodge. As well as private excursions to the falls, Awasi Iguazú offers unique and innovative jungle excursions, which allow guests to experience not only the falls, but also the fauna, flora and indigenous cultures of the surrounding Atlantic Rainforest.

The rates include airport transfers, lodging, all meals, private excursions and all drinks.

Villa Private Plunge Pool Awasi Iguazu PH Federico Garcia
Stylish Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires - 3 Nights

Day 7 - Fly to Buenos Aires

Day 8 - Guided tour of Buenos Aires

Day 9 - At leisure in Buenos Aires

  • Full Description
  • Accommodation

Monday, 09 December 2024

Fly to Buenos Aires

Today enjoy exploring the Iguazu Falls from the Argentine side. Don't miss the chance to walk to the giant u-shaped cascade at Devil's Throat. In late afternoon, transfer to the airport and fly to Buenos Aires. Our guide will transfer you the well-located De La Americas hotel for a 3-night stay including breakfast. 


Tuesday, 10 December 2024

Buenos Aires

This morning enjoy a guided tour of Buenos Aires, named the “Paris of South America” for its turn of the century French architecture. We visit La Boca, with its brightly coloured houses, the cathedral, the Recoleta area and the Presidential Palace, with its famous balcony where successive leaders have made appearances. Optional dinner and tango show in the evening. 


Wednesday, 11 December 2024

At leisure in Buenos Aires

Today you are free to explore Buenos Aires on your own, or choose from a number of optional tours and excursions: tango classes; traditional bars and cafes of San Telmo; Colon Theatre; Evita & Peronism tour; art in Buenos Aires; Argentine Dinner experience; Buenos Aires' Jewish heritage; hidden Buenos Aires; underground tunnels of Buenos Aires; the life and times of Diego Maradona; estancias of the Pampa; Delta del Tigre day trip; day trip across the Rio Plata to Uruguay.

De las Americas

Buenos Aires - Tourist Hotel

An elegant hotel with spacious rooms and situated in the heart of the Barrio Norte, an elegant residential and commercial district, within comfortable walking distance of the exclusive shops of the Santa Fe and 9 de Julio avenues. All 162 rooms have private facilities, TV and telephone, mini-bar, and air-conditioning. There is 24 hour room service, a restaurant, two bars and a weekend tango show.

Bar

Mine Boutique

Buenos Aires - First Boutique

This boutique hotel is located in the heart of Palermo Soho, metres from Plaza Julio Cortazar and many other touristic points of the city such as La boca, San Telmo, and the Plaza de Mayo. With strong Thai influences mixed with modern elements, the ground floor is warmly decorated.

1944 Mine Boutique

Sofitel Recoleta

Buenos Aires - Luxury Hotel

Located in the elegant Recoleta neighbourhood, Sofitel Recoleta is a luxurious 5-star hotel providing an authentic experience. 

The comfortable, air-conditioned, double or twin rooms have free WIFI, private bathroom, safe, mini bar, city or garden views. 

Public areas include the Alma Buenos Aires restaurant specialising  in seasonal local meats and vegetables. There is also a swimming pool, bar, fitness centre, sauna, and massage room.

Staying in Recoleta, you are close to several attractions, like Patio Bullrich Shopping, facing the Sofitel, and Avenida Alvear and its French architecture and luxury stores, a few blocks from the hotel. Visit Teatro Colón, in the world's top 5, National Museum of Fine Arts & El Ateneo Grand Splendid bookstore. See the elegant neighbourhood near Puerto Madero and Women's Bridge, which marks its landscape.

The rates include breakfast.

Sofitel Recoleta
Ushuaia Argentina

Ushuaia - 1 Night

Day 10 - Fly to Ushuaia

  • Full Description

Thursday, 12 December 2024

Fly to Ushuaia

Transfer to the airport and fly to Ushuaia. On arrival, check into your hotel for a 1-night stay including breakfast. The rest of the day is free to explore Ushuaia.

Stunning wildlife

Antarctica Peninsula Cruise and fly back - 9 Nights

Day 11 - Ushuaia & Embark the M/V Sea Spirit

Day 12 - Crossing Drake Passage

Day 13 - Crossing Drake Passage

Day 14 - Antarctic Peninsula & South Shetland Islands

Day 15 - Antarctic Peninsula & South Shetland Islands 

Day 16 - Antarctic Peninsula & South Shetland Islands 

Day 17 - Antarctic Peninsula & South Shetland Islands 

Day 18 - Return via Drake Passage

Day 19 - Drake Passage

  • Full Description
  • Accommodation

Friday, 13 December 2024

Ushuaia & Embarkation

Morning at leisure to explore Ushuaia. Afternoon transfer to the port and embark the M/V Sea Spirit for your expedition cruise to Antarctica. Settle into your superior cabin. We set sail south along the Beagle Channel.

 


Saturday, 14 December 2024

Crossing Drake Passage

After transiting the Beagle Channel and passing the islands of Tierra del Fuego, we head south across the Drake Passage. Pelagic seabirds including the majestic albatross are common in these waters and can readily be viewed from panoramic open decks or from exterior stateroom windows and balconies. On the way we cross the Antarctic Convergence, the biological boundary of the Southern Ocean. The ship’s stabilizing fins provide comfort in the event of rough seas. Briefings, orientations, and lectures from our expert staff prepare you for our arrival in Antarctica.


Sunday, 15 December 2024

Crossing Drake Passage

We continue sailing southbound. Enjoy further lectures and briefings from the expert guides in preparation for our arrival in the White Continent.


Monday, 16 December 2024

Antarctic Peninsula & South Shetland Islands

This is expedition cruising at its most authentic. Our route and exploration opportunities in Antarctica are heavily dependent on weather and ice conditions. Our experienced captain and expedition leader decide the itinerary and continually adjust plans as conditions and opportunities warrant. We take advantage of long daylight hours to exploit every opportunity to experience excellent wildlife viewing, amazing scenery, and excursions via Zodiac.

The Antarctic Peninsula region contains some of the world’s most impressive scenery and some of Antarctica’s best wildlife viewing opportunities. Protected bays and narrow channels are surrounded by towering mountain peaks covered in permanent snow and immense glaciers. Icebergs of every size and description complete an image of incomparable beauty. Waters rich with krill are home to a variety of whale and seal species. The whole area is alive with penguins foraging at sea and forming large nesting colonies at special places on land. The area is also home to Antarctic research stations of various nationalities. Some stations have a gift shop and post office.


Tuesday, 17 December 2024

Antarctic Peninsula & South Shetland Islands

The South Shetland Islands are the northernmost islands in Antarctica and will likely be our first sighting of land. This wild and beautiful island chain contains numerous landing sites with abundant wildlife and historical significance. Among them is Deception Island, where the flooded caldera of an active volcano harbors an abandoned whaling station. Farther south, on the Antarctic Peninsula, the vast Gerlache Strait area contains sheltered bays, accessible wildlife, and stunning scenery. Places with names like Paradise Bay are the epitome of everything Antarctic: glaciated mountains, towering icebergs, feeding whales, seals on ice floes, and bustling penguin colonies.

At the southern end of Gerlache Strait is the famous Lemaire Channel, also known as “Kodak Gap” because of the photogenic way the mountainous sides of the narrow channel are reflected in calm waters strewn with icebergs. Our days in Antarctica are filled with memorable excursions, sumptuous meals, presentations by our experts, and enough incredible scenery and wildlife to fill your camera and overwhelm your emotions.


Wednesday, 18 December 2024

Antarctic Peninsula & South Shetland Islands

Continue exploring the Antarctic Peninsula today, with an excursion ashore.


Thursday, 19 December 2024

Antarctic Peninsula & South Shetland Islands

You final day of exploring today.


Friday, 20 December 2024

Return via Drake Passage

After our amazing time in Antarctica we cross back north through the bountiful waters of the Drake Passage. Presentations and workshops by our expert staff, as well as our range of onboard recreation facilities, ensure that these days at sea are not idly spent.


Saturday, 21 December 2024

Towards Ushuaia

We continue sailing through Drake Passage back to Ushuaia. After some final lectures and relaxing with new found friends, enjoy the end of voyage ceremonies including slideshow and farewell dinner.

Sea Spirit

Antarctica Cruises - First Expedition Ship

View the M/V Sea Spirit amazing Antarctica video

The 114 passenger M/V Sea Spirit is our favourite Antarctica expedition vessels for size and value allbeit, slightly old fashioned in decoration. It has a comfortable and welcoming feel, with spacious cabins, lounge areas and superior manoeuvrability. Guests are infused with an adventurous spirit by the enthusiastic crew and highly experienced guides, who lead excursions in the boats and shore landings on the Antarctic Peninsula, Falkland Islands and South Georgia.

The M/V Sea Spirit offers the unique opportunity to take a sea kayak on the water (i.e. no engine noise) and in addition, to sleep one night shore, (weather permitting) on the snow, with the ship anchored nearby. Check the video of these experiences by clicking the link at the top of this page.

There are a number of different suites to choose from, all with a minimum of 20 square metres, with en-suite facilities and either two porthole windows, a large picture window or, in the case of Deluxe and Premium suites, private balconies.

There are large communal areas, including an outdoor bistro, the Club Lounge and a library. A presentation lounge features state-of-the-art technology to facilitate informative discussions, lectures and social gatherings to prepare you for the upcoming excursions and reflect upon the unforgettable experiences enjoyed.

Download the Sea Spirit E-Brochure

Sea Spirit mooring close to shore
BA & Iguazu DSC03841

Fly to Buenos Aires - 1 Night

Day 20 - Fly to Buenos Aires 

Day 21 - Fly back to the UK

Day 22 - Arrive in the UK

  • Full Description

Sunday, 22 December 2024

Fly to Buenos Aires

Disembark the Sea Spirit after breakfast and transfer to the airport for your flight to Buenos Aires. On arrival, transfer to the De Las Americas Hotel for your final night in South America. 


Monday, 23 December 2024

Fly back to the UK

Transfer to the airport for your overnight British Airways flight back to the UK. 


Tuesday, 24 December 2024

Arrive in the UK

Arrive back in the UK in the morning.

Price Guidelines

Season High Season
Travel Dates 3, 12 Nov and 1, 10 Dec
Room Arrangement First
Multiple Travellers - Twin Room £11,225

Prices are a guideline per person, for travel within the next year and booking early and are subject to availability. Please see below what is included and request a detailed quotation with a guaranteed price for your specific departure date and for Special Events, Summer, Christmas, New Year's Eve & Easter.


What's Included

  • 22 Days/19 Nights
  • International flights (2 overnights)
  • Internal flights
  • All transport as described
  • Accommodation as shown on the itinerary
  • 7-night Antarctica Expedition Cruise aboard M/V Sea Spirit in a superior cabin
  • All meals & excursions on the cruise 
  • Captain's welcome and farewell reception
  • Parka Jacket and rubber boots for shore landings
  • All port fees on the cruise
  • Excursions listed, all with expert, English-speaking guides

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