Day 1-3: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil 

Your adventure begins in Rio de Janeiro, a city known for its lively culture, stunning beaches, and iconic landmarks. Upon arrival, check into one of the city’s top hotels. For a luxury experience, stay at the Copacabana Palace, a glamorous beachfront property with impeccable service, while the Hotel Santa Teresa offers a chic boutique option with an urban flair.

Highlights:

• Visit Sugarloaf Mountain and Christ the Redeemer for panoramic views of the city.

• Relax on the famous Copacabana and Ipanema Beaches.

• Explore the vibrant neighbourhoods of Santa Teresa and Lapa, known for their samba clubs and street art.

• Enjoy a traditional Brazilian churrascaria dinner.

Optional Activities:

• Take a cable car to Sugarloaf for spectacular views at sunset.

• Try your hand at samba dancing with a private instructor.

Day 4-5: Ushuaia, 

Argentina From Rio, fly to Ushuaia, Argentina, the southernmost city in the world and your gateway to Antarctica. Stay at the luxurious Los Cauquenes Resort & Spa, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and Beagle Channel, or opt for the more budget-friendly Hotel Albatros, located conveniently in the city center.

Highlights:

• Explore the Tierra del Fuego National Park, a striking blend of glaciers, forests, and mountains.

• Take a boat trip on the Beagle Channel to see penguins, seals, and marine life.

• Visit the End of the World Museum to learn about the region's history.

Day 6-16: Antarctic Peninsula 

11-Cruise Your Antarctic adventure begins as you board your ship for an 11-day voyage to the Antarctic Peninsula. Known for its unparalleled service and comfort, this extraordinary experience with experts in polar wildlife and history. Onboard, you’ll enjoy the company of fellow explorers, fine dining, and expert-led excursions.

Highlights:

• Cross the Drake Passage, the most iconic sea route to Antarctica.

• Step foot on the icy shores of Antarctica and witness spectacular glaciers, icebergs, and snow-capped mountains.

• Encounter wildlife such as penguins, seals, and whales in their natural habitat.

• Visit research stations and historic sites, including Port Lockroy.

• Celebrate Christmas Day on the White Continent (optional) with a special festive dinner and excursions to local wildlife colonies.

Optional Activities:

• Kayaking in Antarctic waters.

• Polar plunges into the icy waters of the Southern Ocean.

Day 17-19: Buenos Aires, Argentina 

After your return to Ushuaia, fly to Buenos Aires, Argentina’s dynamic capital. Stay in a luxury hotel such as the Alvear Palace Hotel, known for its elegant rooms and superb service, or opt for the more budget-friendly Hotel Boca by Design in the heart of the city.

Highlights:

• Discover the Recoleta Cemetery and the iconic La Casa Rosada.

• Stroll through the San Telmo neighborhood, known for its tango culture.

• Enjoy a traditional Argentine steak dinner at Don Julio or La Cabrera.

• Take in a tango show in one of the city’s famous milongas. 

Optional Activities:

• Private tango lessons with a professional dancer.

• Wine tasting tour of Malbec in the nearby wine regions.

Day 20-22: Montevideo, Uruguay  

New Year’s Eve Celebration; next, take a short flight to Montevideo, Uruguay, a charming city with a laid-back vibe perfect for ringing in the new year. Stay at the Sofitel Montevideo Casino Carrasco & Spa, a luxurious beachfront resort with stunning views of the Atlantic, or the Hotel Palacio, a more affordable yet elegant option close to the city center.

Highlights:

• Walk along Rambla de Montevideo, a scenic coastal promenade.

• Explore the Ciudad Vieja, Montevideo’s old town, and visit Plaza Independencia.

• Spend New Year’s Eve with a lively celebration on the beach or attend one of the famous events at Plaza Mayor.

Optional Activities:

• Day trip to the wine country near Montevideo for a tasting.

• Explore Parque Rodó and its scenic lake.

Day 23-24: Iguazu Falls, Brazil/Argentina 

Fly from Montevideo to the awe-inspiring Iguazu Falls, one of the most impressive natural wonders in the world. Stay at the Belmond Hotel das Cataratas, located inside the national park with direct access to the falls, or the more budget-friendly Iguazu Grand Resort.

Highlights:

• Visit the Iguazu National Park on both the Brazilian and Argentine sides to see the massive waterfalls from different viewpoints.

• Take a boat ride that gets you up close to the falls, feeling the mist and hearing the roar.

• Explore the Devil's Throat viewpoint for an unforgettable experience.

Optional Activities:

• Helicopter ride over the falls for breathtaking aerial views.

• Visit the Iguazu Bird Park and witness exotic bird species up close.

Day 25: Rio de Janiero, Brazil

Return to Rio Conclude your unforgettable journey back in Rio, where you can spend your final day soaking up the vibrant energy of the city before your return flight home.

Trip Highlights:

• 11-Day Antarctic Expedition with Poseidon Expeditions.

• Celebrate Christmas in Antarctica (optional) or New Year’s Eve in Montevideo or one of other South America's vibrant capital cities.

• Iconic South American cities: Rio de Janeiro, Buenos Aires, and Montevideo.

• The awe-inspiring Iguazu Falls and the Beagle Channel.

This immersive itinerary offers the perfect balance of relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration across South America and Antarctica. Whether you’re indulging in luxury or exploring on a budget, this journey promises memories that will last a lifetime.