Life Returns - Springtime Expedition to Antarctica

Buenos Aires -> New Island -> Carcass Island -> Port Stanley -> Salisbury Plain -> Grytviken -> Antarctic Experience -> Puerto Williams -> Punta Arenas
Nights
22
Departing
Buenos Aires
Returning
Punta Arenas

Life Returns - Springtime Expedition to Antarctica

HX Hurtigruten Expeditions invites explorers on a remarkable 22-night journey aboard the MS Fram, departing from the vibrant city of Buenos Aires on 26 Oct 2023 18:00 and concluding in Punta Arenas on 17 Nov 2023 09:00. The 'Life Returns - Springtime Expedition to Antarctica' offers a unique experience of the changing seasons in one of the world's most remote and pristine areas. Starting in the cosmopolitan, European-influenced streets of Buenos Aires, participants will soon transition to the stark yet captivating wilderness of the Falkland Islands, where penguins and black-browed albatrosses thrive amidst historical shipwrecks.

The expedition further weaves through the rich biodiversity of South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands before plunging south to the otherworldly landscapes of Antarctica itself. As spring breathes life into the Antarctic, explorers witness the season's renewal amongst impressive glaciers, diverse wildlife, and hauntingly beautiful sceneries. The journey concludes in Punta Arenas, Chile, a gateway to the awe-inspiring natural wonders of Patagonia, including the renowned Parque Nacional Torres del Paine. This expedition provides an unparalleled opportunity to embrace nature's wonders and discover iconic wildlife in their natural habitats, creating memories to last a lifetime.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires, Argentina: Glamorous and gritty, Buenos Aires is a city of contrasts. Argentina's capital is fascinating due to its dual heritage—part European, part Latin American. Plaza de Mayo resembles a grand square in Madrid, and the ornate Teatro Colón could easily be mistaken for a venue in Vienna. Yet, you’re unmistakably in South America, recognised by the leather shoes for sale on cobbled streets and the spontaneous parades of jubilant football fans. The city has perfected old-world imports like limited-production wines, juicy steaks, and countless flavours of ice cream.

Day 5 - New Island

New Island, Falkland Islands (Malvinas): The remarkable beauty of the remote Falkland Islands is best appreciated at New Island. As the westernmost of the inhabited islands in this archipelago, it serves as a wildlife and nature reserve, protected by an environmental conservation group. The island features rookeries where Rockhopper Penguins and Blue-eyed Shags nest together, and Black-browed Albatrosses can be seen in their daily life. Upland Geese are also easy to spot among the more than 40 bird species that breed on the island. Near the landing site stands 'Barnard’s barn', a restored stone structure from the early 19th century. In the sandy shallows nearby lies the wreck of Protector III, an old minesweeper historically used for seal hunting.

Day 6 - Carcass Island

Carcass Island, Falkland Islands (Malvinas): Visitors to Carcass Island will find themselves amidst a splendid natural setting. This island, part of the remote Falkland Islands, is known for its diverse birdlife including Gentoo and Magellanic penguins. Without predators like rats or cats on the island, ground-nesting birds thrive, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers alike.

Day 7 - Port Stanley

Port Stanley, Falkland Islands (Malvinas): Tiny Stanley, the capital of the Falklands, gives the impression of a British village that's been transported from the sky. Brightly coloured homes add aesthetic charm to this remote outpost. Offshore, the wreck of the Lady Elizabeth serves as a silent reminder of the area's tumultuous weather. Home to more penguins than people, species like Gentoo, Magellanic, and the occasional King penguin find either permanent refuge here or stop during migration. Darwin was captivated by the islands' flora and fauna, and it's easy to see why explorers and tourists find them equally appealing.

Day 11 - Salisbury Plain

Salisbury Plain, South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands: The Salisbury Plain on South Georgia is a spectacular site celebrated for its stunning scenery and vast wildlife populations. Home to one of the largest King Penguin colonies in the world, its shores are teeming with life, from fur seals to elephant seals, amidst its captivating landscapes.

Day 12 - Grytviken

Grytviken, South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands: Grytviken offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of whaling and exploration. Visitors will find the remnants of a whaling station, the poignant grave of the explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton, and a museum that sheds light on the area's rich history and abundant wildlife.

Day 15 - Antarctic Experience

Antarctic Experience, Antarctica: Embark on an unforgettable Antarctic Experience, immersing yourself in the continent's pristine wilderness. Majestic icebergs, magnificent glaciers, and diverse wildlife, including penguins, seals, and whales, define the landscape of this extreme and enchanting region.

Day 21 - Puerto Williams

Puerto Williams, Chile: Puerto Williams, often regarded as the southernmost city in the world, serves as a gateway to some of nature's most remote wonders. With its rich cultural heritage and beautiful surroundings, including the Dientes de Navarino mountain range, it provides adventurers with an authentic taste of rural Chilean life.

Day 23 - Punta Arenas

Punta Arenas, Chile: The rugged and breathtaking landscapes of Chilean Patagonia, with its impenetrable forests, challenging mountains, and vast ice fields, made it largely unexplored until the 20th century. Located in the southern regions, Punta Arenas is a vibrant city poised at the edge of the Strait of Magellan. The area is home to many wildlife species, including colonies of elephant seals and diverse penguin populations. Expansive natural wonders like Parque Nacional Torres del Paine nearby display snow-capped peaks emerging from plains. With historic and architectural attractions, various museums celebrate the region’s maritime history, and excursions offer insights into the unique ecological and cultural treasures of this magnificent landscape.

We endeavour to ensure that the information provided on our website regarding itineraries and schedules is accurate and up-to-date. Please be aware, however, that this information is offered in good faith and may be subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances or events beyond our control. We appreciate your understanding and flexibility in this regard.

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Discover the Charms of Antarctica on the Life Returns Expedition

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