Essential Patagonia: Chilean Fjords and Torres del Paine 17% Advantage

This journey travels through the landscapes of Patagonia, past the Chilean fjords and the Torres del Paine National Park. It begins in Buenos Aires and continues into the fjords, glaciers and forests of the Southern Hemisphere. On board the Ultramarine, passengers can observe glaciers and the local wildlife, including Magellanic penguins and South American sea lions (Otaria flavescens). The route through the Beagle Channel follows the historic paths of Charles Darwin, providing views of the diverse landscapes of the region. The fjords and glaciers can be viewed from a Zodiac or, optionally, by helicopter. The expedition offers a comprehensive nature experience with a focus on wildlife and landscape observation.
 

Itinerary: Essential Patagonia: Chilean Fjords and Torres del Paine

 
Day 1: Arrive in Buenos Aires, Argentina
Upon arrival in Buenos Aires, known for its architecture and European heritage, you will be transferred to your group hotel, with a pre-expedition overnight included in the mandatory transfer package. The city combines historic buildings with modern architecture, reflecting a variety of cultural influences. This first overnight provides a comfortable start to the journey and the chance to rest before the explorations ahead.
All pictures of this partner

Day 2: Flight to Ushuaia and Embarkation
After breakfast, you will be taken to the airport for a private charter flight to Ushuaia, Argentina. Upon arrival, there is time to explore the port town at your own pace before boarding the ship. Following embarkation in the afternoon, the voyage continues through the Beagle Channel, which crosses the southern end of the Tierra del Fuego archipelago and holds historical significance. This passage offers an initial opportunity to observe the region’s landscapes and wildlife.
 
Day 3: Cape Horn
The route reaches the southernmost point of the Tierra del Fuego archipelago, Cape Horn (Cabo de Hornos), the southern entrance to the Drake Passage where the Atlantic and Pacific meet. Before the opening of the Panama Canal, this cape was part of a key global shipping route. Weather and sea conditions permitting, a landing allows visits to the lighthouse, the Capilla Stella Maris chapel, and the monument to sailors lost at sea. Panoramic views of the coastal landscape can be enjoyed from this point.
 
Day 4 & 5: Pia and Garibaldi Glaciers, Glacier Alley
The journey continues along the fjords of Alberto de Agostini National Park, including the areas surrounding the Pia and Garibaldi Glaciers. In the Beagle Channel, the historical routes of Charles Darwin are retraced. Regional glaciers are named after European countries such as Roncagli, Francia, Italia and Holanda. The surroundings can be explored by Zodiac, with presentations on geology, wildlife and history provided. Andean condors, with wingspans of up to three metres, may be observed up close.
 
Day 6: Dainelli (Aguila) Glacier
The D’Agostini Glacier lies at the end of a quiet lagoon, surrounded by lush sub-Antarctic forest in Seno Agostini. Weather permitting, passengers can approach the glacier by Zodiac. A simple shore walk is also planned to view the glacier from close proximity.
 
Day 7: Cruising the Chilean Fjords
The route passes through a network of remote fjords and channels, including sections of the Pacific Ocean. The expedition team explains the local flora, fauna, and geological features. The journey also provides insights into the history of the indigenous peoples and early European explorers. The largely untouched landscape allows visitors to observe both nature and cultural heritage.
 
Day 8 & 9: Puerto Natales and Torres del Paine National Park
The expedition reaches Puerto Natales, the gateway to the Torres del Paine National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. From the ship, birds such as king cormorants, South American terns, black-necked swans and southern pochards can be observed. Planned excursions using chartered buses provide walks of varying difficulty and viewpoints within the park. A traditional Patagonian estancia, founded in 1891 by Scottish settlers, is visited, offering insights into sheep farming. Common rhea (Rhea americana) and guanacos may also be seen in the surrounding grasslands. Lunch includes grilled lamb prepared al palo.
 
Day 10: Canal de las Montanas
The passage through the Canal de las Montañas (Fjord of the Mountains) spans 41 miles (66 km) and features waterfalls and glaciers rising to around 2,500 metres. Zodiacs allow for closer exploration, and an optional kayaking excursion is available.
 
Day 11: Tuckers Islets
The Tuckers Islets in the Almirantazgo Sound are home to colonies of over 4,000 nesting Magellanic penguins. Landings are not permitted to protect nesting areas, but Zodiac trips provide close observation. Other wildlife that may occasionally be seen includes Chilean skuas, king cormorants, oystercatchers, kelp geese and occasionally dolphins.
 
Day 12: Ainsworth Bay
Ainsworth Bay is a protected bay within Alberto de Agostini National Park. Surrounded by sub-Antarctic forest, passengers can observe birdlife from the Zodiac and access viewpoints of the Marinelli Glacier and surrounding Darwin Mountains. Landings of varying difficulty are possible.
 
Day 13: Bahia Brookes
Brookes Bay offers views of waterfalls and the Nord Brookes Glacier. Icefall deposits and sediment formations such as kames can be observed. Landings are subject to weather and sea conditions.
 
Day 14: Marta Island
Isla Marta in the Strait of Magellan hosts a colony of over a thousand South American sea lions (Otaria flavescens) and various bird species, including king cormorants and skuas. Landings are not possible, but the colony can be observed from the Zodiac.
 
Day 15: Disembarkation in Punta Arenas and Flight to Santiago
Following disembarkation in Punta Arenas, passengers are transferred to the airport for a charter flight to Santiago, where the organised expedition concludes.
 
 
Additional Information: The expedition vessel is equipped with multiple Zodiacs and twin-engine helicopters, which—weather and safety permitting—allow for additional landings or aerial overflights. The onboard programme includes lectures and briefings by the expedition team, as well as guided walks and wildlife observation. Optional activities such as kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding or a Polar Plunge may also be offered. Meals, selected beverages and basic expedition equipment are included. All activities are dependent on weather and ice conditions. Wildlife sightings are possible but not guaranteed.
 
Spaces are limited and demand is high, so we recommend enquiring now to reserve your personal experience in Antarctica. Our team is happy to answer any questions or assist you with planning your journey.
Show all dates