Journey between South America’s captivating capitals, from the lively streets of Buenos Aires to sunny Santiago by cruise. Venture inland to the awe-inspiring Iguazú Falls, visit UNESCO sites, and explore the windswept Falkland Islands. Then sail the stunning bays and inlets of Antarctica, “The Bottom of the World.” Witness towering icebergs, massive glaciers, and abundant wildlife.
DAYS 1-2—WELCOME TO ARGENTINA!
Arrive in Buenos Aires and enjoy a panoramic city tour highlighting the vibrant capital of Argentina, including the central Plaza de Maya and Casa Rosada. L, D
DAY 3—RANCH ON THE PAMPAS/TANGO DINNER
Experience the life of a “gaucho” as we travel outside the bustling city to a ranch outside Buenos Aires. Learn about life on the Pampas (fertile South American grasslands) and relish a delicious BBQ lunch. Return to the hotel to refresh before a special Tango dinner - a classic Argentinian dance experience for all to cherish! B, L, D
DAY 4—MS OOSTERDAM
Participate in a local guided walking tour in Buenos Aires before embarking on Holland America’s luxurious MS Oosterdam for our first overnight onboard. This ship offers a refined and elegant cruising experience with its lavish amenities. B, L, D
DAY 5—FREE DAY
Make the most of our final day before the ship departs by continuing to explore Buenos Aires on your own through an optional excursion or experience the ship’s luxurious facilities. This afternoon, we depart Buenos Aires and begin our cruising adventure. B, L, D
DAY 6—MONTEVIDEO, URUGUAY
Explore Montevideo, Uruguay’s capital, which is a mix of neighborhoods, with gleaming skyscrapers and miles of beach. Friendly and relaxed, Montevideo invites you to savor the beautiful climate or bask in a leisurely stroll along the malecón. B, L, D
DAY 7—PUNTA DEL ESTE, URUGUAY
Once a quiet town with fewer than 10,000 residents, Punta del Este in southeastern Uruguay has transformed into a chic destination. Enjoy this beautiful coastal city’s stunning beaches, vibrant art scene, and fresh seafood restaurants. B, L, D
DAY 9—PUERTO MADRYN, ARGENTINA
Today we’ll arrive in Puerto Madryn, renowned as the gateway to the Peninsula Valdés, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its large populations of seals, sea lions, and whales. Wander along its restaurant-lined promenades and admire the beaches that have made Puerto Madryn a popular destination. B, L, D
DAY 11—STANLEY/FALKLAND ISLANDS
Visit the Falkland Islands, a haven for wildlife with penguin colonies, seals, and seabirds, making it a paradise for animal interaction. Stanley, the capital of the Falkland Islands, offers a charming blend of British heritage and natural beauty. B, L, D
DAY 13-16—ANTARCTIC EXPERIENCE (WEATHER PERMITTING)
After a day and a half crossing the Drake Passage, your ship will reach Antarctica. You’ll explore the snow and ice enveloped Palmer Archipelago near the northern tip of the Antarctic Peninsula. As you sail through iceberg-filled waters, naturalists will point out seabirds like terns and petrels along the coast and at stops like Dallmann Bay. Passing Cuverville Island and Paradise Harbor, you will see the world’s largest penguin colonies along with research stations from Argentina and Chile. B, L, D
DAY 18—CAPE HORN AND DRAKE PASSAGE CRUISING
Cape Horn, located at the southern tip of South America, has been a key point in navigational history. In 1615, it became the main trade route for ships traveling between Europe and the American West Coast, replacing the more difficult Strait of Magellan. Marking the entrance to the Drake Passage, where the Atlantic and Pacific meet, Cape Horn was a major shipping route until the Panama Canal opened in 1914. B, L, D
DAY 19—USHUAIA/GLACIER ALLEY/BEAGLE CHANNEL
Ushuaia lies between the towering Martial Mountains and the Beagle Channel, named for Darwin’s ship. As the capital of Tierra del Fuego, it’s surrounded by glaciers, snow-capped peaks, dense forests, and sparkling lakes. Founded in 1884, the town has historically been a hub for missionaries, gold prospectors, and naval officers. Today, its port is the heart of the town, with numerous sites documenting the region’s history. Continue by cruising the 150-mile-long Beagle Channel and Glacier Alley. B, L, D
DAY 20—PUNTA ARENAS/STRAIT OF MAGELLAN
Before the Panama Canal, the Strait of Magellan was the key link between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, cutting through South America’s southern tip and Tierra del Fuego. First navigated by Ferdinand Magellan in 1520, the 560-kilometer channel offers stunning views of glaciers, mountains, and abundant wildlife, including penguins, humpback whales, and dolphins. With Punta Arenas as its main port, the Strait remains a must-visit destination for adventurous travelers seeking a dramatic, historic passage. B, L, D
DAY 21—SCENIC CRUISING
One of the main channels in Patagonia, the Sarmiento Channel is flanked by the Chilean mainland and islands like Esperanza and Vancouver. Navigating the channel with clear skies reveals breathtaking views of rugged coastline, breathtaking glaciers, and ice fields. From your ship, you’ll witness stunning landscapes and wildlife. B, L, D
DAY 22—CRUSING CHILEAN FJORDS
Today we will cruise Chile’s west coast carved by dramatic fjords, rugged mountains, and glacier-filled valleys. Stretching 930 miles from the Reloncaví Estuary to Tierra del Fuego, this stunning coastline is navigated through winding channels and inlets. Known for its desolate beauty, the region is home to several national parks and national reserves. B, L, D
DAY 23—PUERTO CHACABUCO, CHILE
Puerto Chacabuco sits at the start of the Aisén Fjord and serves as a portal to the stunning natural beauty of Chilean Patagonia. Spend today at a nearby Coihaique or Puerto Aisén and shop for handcrafted goods and enjoy local cuisine or visit the Río Simpson National Reserve offering breathtaking views, waterfalls, and world-renowned fly fishing. B, L, D
DAY 24 PUERTO MONTT, CHILE
Today we visit Puerto Montt, the capital of Chile’s Los Lagos region. While here, stroll along the Puerto Varas with views of the Lago Llanquihue, participate in a rafting trip down the clear waters of the Petrohué River, or dine in the fishing village of Angelmó. B, L, D
DAY 26-27 SANTIAGO/RETURN HOME
This once-in-a-lifetime adventure must come to an end as we head back home with stories only few get to share of the edge of the world. B
FULL DAYS AT SEA: 8, 10, 12, 17, 25 B, L, D
Quality Accommodations
Nights 2-3: Buenos Aires Marriott, Argentina (or similar)
Nights 4-25: MS Oosterdam
Dates:
Jan 28-Feb 23, 2026
Price Per Person:
Outside Stateroom (Double) - $7,997
Outside Stateroom (Single) - $12,297
Verandah Stateroom (Double) - $8,997
Verandah Stateroom (Single) - $13,997
Mandatory Port Taxes: $610 per person
Depart/Return:
Chicago, IL
Inclusions:
Round-trip airfare from the U.S.
Professional, English speaking Tour Director
Welcome Dinner and meals as indicated (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner)
Fees and tips for included attractions, meals, and drivers
Luggage handling at most hotels
24-hour emergency call service
Arrival Time
Available about 90 days prior to departure.
Departure Time
Available about 90 days prior to departure.
Airport Transportation / Vehicle Parking
Our Pre and Post hotels offer complimentary shuttle service to and from the airport. Free parking can be offered during the tour with a pre or post night, please let us know ahead of time if you desire this service.
Walking Distance
To fully enjoy your CTD vacation, you should be in good physical health and understand there are times when a good deal of walking is involved in our tours. Those who have difficulty walking may not want to take this trip or should discuss their personal situation with their doctor before deciding. You should be able to walk at a steady pace for a mile at a time for a daily total of three to four miles per day and be able to manage steps to board/de-board the motorcoach several times a day. In addition, many US and international airports require lengthy walks to get from ticketing counters to your departure gate. Due to the lack of proper facilities at some of the farms, ranches, and off-the-beaten-path sites we often visit, we are unable to accommodate walkers and wheelchairs.
We are finding that larger international cities are closing their historic districts to motor traffic. This, of course, adds to the amount of walking involved when visiting a city (sometimes on uneven and/or cobblestone walkways). In addition, you should know that you may be required to exit the motorcoach at each stop because local law often does not allow travelers to remain on the motorcoach while it is parked for a scheduled stop.
Average Temps
High of 82°, low of 32°
Currency
Argentine Peso, Uruguayan Peso, Chilean Peso
Time Zone
GMT-3
Hotel Amenities
Hair dryer, iron, and an ironing board will be available at the hotel. Guest laundry is available for a fee on board the MS Oosterdam. Exercise room, spa services, & swimming pool are on board the MS Oosterdam.
Additional Information
A total of three mailing are sent to assist you in preparing for your tour, including information sent upon receipt of your reservation.
A valid US Passport is required for travel to/from the United States.
"Country Club" casual attire (excluding jeans and shorts) is recommended for dinner on your cruise. There are formal evenings on the ship, and it is recommended that men wear a dress shirt & suit coat and ladies should bring along a nice dress, skirt & blouse, or a nice pants suit. If you do not feel comfortable dressing for dinner in the formal dining room, there are alternate casual dining choices while on board. You may eat in the Lido Restaurant or choose room service, both are complimentary.
Travel Protection Available?
Yes, see CountryTravelDiscoveries.com/TravelProtectionPlan.