Falklands, South Georgia and Antarctica: Explorers and Kings
Falklands, South Georgia and Antarctica: Explorers and Kings
Falklands, South Georgia and Antarctica: Explorers and Kings
20 Days Starting and ending in Ushuaia
Visiting: Ushuaia, Embarkation in Ushuaia, At Sea, Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas), South Georgia, South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula, Crossing the Drake Passage, Disembarkation in Ushuaia
Tour operator:
Tour code:
GQMF
Group size:
1 - 138
Age range:
8-
Trip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Explore the rarely visited Falkland Islands (Malvinas), South Georgia and Antarctica on this unforgettable 20-day adventure to the 7th Continent. Stroll through the English village of Stanley, wander the islands’ sandy dunes and birdwatch at rugged cliffs teeming with seabirds. Discover the beaches where king penguins breed in South Georgia – this colony has one of the highest densities of animal life on earth! Both archipelagos are known for their wildlife and you’ll likely see epic displays of animals by the thousands. Explore the vast Antarctic Peninsula and enter a world of ice, snow and natural wonders, taking the opportunity to go on an optional sea-kayaking adventure, day paddling or snowshoeing.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Ushuaia
Location: Ushuaia
Accommodation: Hotel
Welcome to Ushuaia – the gateway to Antarctica. Located at the southern tip of Argentina, these parts are known as Tierra del Fuego, often called ‘The End of the World’, but this is just the beginning of your Antarctic adventure. Those with a day or two may want to head to Tierra del Fuego National Park on a full day’s adventure, or if you've only got a few hours to kill, why not stroll around town and visit the waterfront overlooking the Beagle Channel. You might also like to sample some handcrafted chocolate at a local cafe in town. Tonight, you’ll have a welcome meeting at the hotel, then you’re free to get ready for tomorrow!
Day 2: Embarkation In Ushuaia
Location: Embarkation in Ushuaia
Accommodation: Expedition Ship
Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner
This afternoon, you’ll board your ship and your epic adventure south will begin! Take some time to settle into your cabin as you begin cruising the stunning Beagle Channel, named after the famed vessel 'The Beagle' that facilitated some of Charles Darwin's most significant voyages. The channel transects the Tierra del Fuego archipelago in the extreme south of South America, and you’ll wave goodbye to Argentina with the knowledge that the next time you see land, you’ll be gazing upon the White Continent of Antarctica.
Day 3: At Sea
Location: At Sea
Accommodation: Expedition Ship
Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch, dinner
With nothing but you and the big blue for the next couple of days, take advantage of all the amenities and activities on board your fully equipped expedition vessel. Brush up on your history in the library, relax in the spa and pool or watch the ice floes pass you by on the sundeck. Look up and you might just spot one of the huge albatrosses along their migration route. Keep your eyes peeled for breaching whales and other marine mammals in the southern oceans and cosy up with a drink while you get to know your shipmates at the bar. There will also be a series of lectures and presentations throughout the day, available to educate you about the local geography, environment and wildlife you can expect along the way. These are a great way to prepare for your expedition, so take it all in while you hear from an expert team that highlight the dramatic history and wildlife encounters that may await you.
Day 4-5: Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas)
Location: Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas)
Accommodation: Expedition Ship
Have your camera ready as you approach the ruggedly beautiful Falklands archipelago to capture not only the abundant wildlife, but also the incredible scenery. The two main islands (East Falkland and West Falkland) have much to offer and provide a rare opportunity to witness the biological diversity, extraordinary landscape and history of the southern islands. The Falklands are a wildlife photographer’s dream and have the largest Black-browed albatross colony in the world, as well as five species of penguins that breed on the islands. Learn about the intriguing and controversial history of the Falkland Islands as you explore the capital of Stanley. Near the town, you may see southern giant petrels, Falkland steamer ducks, kelp gulls or dolphin gulls (calling all birdwatchers!). There are also black-crowned night herons, red-backed hawks, peregrine falcons and turkey vultures. Witness dramatic landscapes, including wetlands, lakes and some rolling peaks as you explore the other islands in the archipelago. Weather permitting, this will include Saunders Island – the second largest island in the Falklands. The Neck, which is a narrow peninsula with sandy beaches and subtle cliffs, is home to Gentoo, magellanic, king and rockhopper penguins.
Day 6-7: At Sea
Location: At Sea
Accommodation: Expedition Ship
Sailing southeast to South Georgia, you’ll officially enter Antarctic waters once you cross the Antarctic Convergence, an invisible biological boundary encircling the continent. From the outer decks, you can scan the horizon for seabirds and underwater silhouettes. You’ll have another chance to attend presentations from the expert team, which highlight the dramatic history of the area, extraordinary marine wildlife encounters and so much more. These days at sea are a great opportunity to swap stories with your fellow expeditioners, whether that be in the jacuzzi or over lunch at the restaurant.
Day 8-11: South Georgia
Location: South Georgia
Accommodation: Expedition Ship
Arrive in South Georgia, where across the island, dark volcanic beaches are backgrounded by hanging glaciers and local king penguins nest among tussock grass. Over the next few days, explore the island – once the homestead of whalers and isolated explorers and now, a protected area with dedicated Antarctic research teams. Learn more about Sir Ernest Shackleton’s story on your various excursions to land. It’s on these very shores in South Georgia that Shackleton landed his crew of the James Caird in search of help for his party who were stranded back on Elephant Island. You can visit his grave at the settlement of Grytviken, which is also home to an old whaling station, with a museum, gift shop, church and small research station.
Each landing you make on South Georgia, often referred to as the Galapagos of the Southern Sea, will open your eyes to the lives of the wildlife. One day, you may see colonies with hundreds of thousands of king penguins waddling on shore, and the next, you might visit another beach inhabited by fur or elephant seals. The grasses, mountains and beaches of South Georgia all play an important role in the breeding and survival of different species on the island and your expedition team will teach you all about them!
Day 12-13: At Sea
Location: At Sea
Accommodation: Expedition Ship
Say goodbye to the penguins as you leave for your next destination – Antarctica! Your days at sea are filled with presentations, workshops and activities led by your expedition team and you can make the most of the onboard facilities. If weather conditions allow, you may make a landing on the South Orkney Islands – your first official stop in Antarctica.
Day 14-17: South Shetland Islands And Antarctic Peninsula
Location: South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula
Accommodation: Expedition Ship
Voyage south towards continental Antarctica. Over the next four days, you’ll go in search of marine wildlife on the Zodiacs and be treated to unforgettable vistas at every turn. With multiple landing sites available, your Ocean Explorer crew will work out the best places to stop, considering the elements, accessibility and potential for wildlife sightings. There may also be the chance for snowshoeing, sea kayaking or a camping adventure – the paid excursions (which are all weather and time-of-year dependent) can make for some of the greatest memories! Well-known sites like Neko Harbour, Orne Harbour and Paradise Bay will also be on the captain’s radar.
Chinstrap, Adelie and Gentoo penguins are found here, along with Weddell, fur, crabeater and leopard seals. Keep an eye out for Antarctic whales – each day and each excursion will be sure to keep your camera busy.
Day 18-19: Crossing The Drake Passage
Location: Crossing the Drake Passage
Accommodation: Expedition Ship
After more than two weeks full of endless wildlife encounters and unforgettable scenery, your journey home begins. Crossing the Drake Passage is your unofficial rite of passage, completing your Antarctic adventure. Soak up your final moments celebrating with your fellow shipmates and savour the silence of the sea as long as you can.
Day 20: Disembarkation In Ushuaia
Location: Disembarkation in Ushuaia
Meals Included: breaksfast
After breakfast, it’s time to part ways and say goodbye to your expedition team. Airport transfers will be provided for those departing on the first homebound flights.
Transport
Expedition cruise ship , zodiac
Accommodation
1 night comfortable hotel, 18 nights expedition cruise ship
Important Information
This trip is operated on either the World Explorer or Ocean Explorer ship. Please check the dates and availability section to see which which ship is used on each voyage.Your voyage is operated by our sister company, Quark Expeditions. All accommodation and transfer arrangements as listed in the itinerary are also operated by Quark Expeditions or their local representatives.One nights pre expedition hotel is included in Ushuaia. The exact hotel will be provided on your final documentation.Your trip finishes in Ushuaia at the port on day 20 in the morning after breakfast, please do not book onwards flights on this day untill after 12 pm midday."BOOKING CONDITIONSTo confirm your reservation, a deposit of 25% (unless indicated otherwise at time of booking) of the total invoice amount is required at time of booking. Balances are due 120 days prior to departure.Please refer to our ""Booking terms and conditions"" page on our website for all Quark Expedition terms and conditions, http://www.intrepidtravel.com/booking-intrepid/booking-conditions"ADVENTURE OPTIONSSea kayaking, camping and Padding excursions are available to book on this trip. Some activities must be booked prior to departure and incurs an additional cost. Spaces are limited so please enquire at time of booking.
Check out our Q&As
-
Is this trip right for you
The Ocean Explorer is an ice-strengthened ship – large, sturdy and suited to the unpredictable Antarctic waters. Some people may experience seasickness in occasional rough seas however, we do have a doctor on board should you need assistance. Over-the-counter seasickness medication is usually an easy fix.
Temperatures in the Antarctic can get very cold, but it also can get surprisingly warm when the sun comes out. We recommend dressing in layers when you journey outside. We’ll provide you with waterproof boots on loan that are sturdy and warm, as well as a jacket that is yours to keep. Please see the Essential Trip Information for notes on what to pack.
Depending on the weather, you’ll be travelling around in a Zodiac boat quite regularly to explore the area and search for wildlife. It can get cold and wet on the Zodiac, so make sure you dress appropriately and keep your camera safe and dry. A fair level of mobility is needed for wet and dry landings from the boat, as well as on steep terrain, snow and other uneven surfaces.
The weather plays a pivotal part in this adventure and, although there’s an itinerary in place, there are no guarantees that you’ll be able to do everything that is planned. A level of flexibility and openness to embracing the unexpected are important in expedition travel, especially in such a remote area like the Antarctic. There are nearly 200 recognised sites in the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetlands and the places mentioned in the itinerary may need to be changed to other locations – which are just as interesting and beautiful! We may also be confined to the ship during rough weather, but there are plenty on onboard resources and activities. The ship’s library and educational lectures are ideal ways to stay entertained, while the fitness centre, spa and pool will keep you fresh for when the weather clears. -
What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
-
How long has the tour company been trading?
Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years
-
Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
-
What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.
-
Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room
Reviews of this operator
Save on this tour
Request your exclusive discount code now and unlock savings for your next adventure!
Send me one now.1 Select your preferred date
Thursday - Tuesday
Nov 13, 2025 - Dec 02, 2025Book with Confidence
-
Free Date Changes
Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.
-
Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.
-
Low Deposit
Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.
-
Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.
Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.
At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
-
Terms and Conditions
Enquire for huge savings
Rated 5* on Trust Pilot & ABTA Protected.