The 25-day National Geographic Patagonia, Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctica Odyssey explores one of the most comprehensive expeditions to the Southern Ocean, spanning four iconic regions and bringing travelers to remote and seldom-seen locations where wildness and wildlife reign supreme. On this epic adventure aboard the ultimate polar ship, National Geographic Resolution, spend days immersed in the stunning landscapes of Patagonia’s fjords and glaciers; enjoy the windswept Falkland Islands, awash in British charm and history; continue on to the shores of South Georgia, where vast colonies of king penguins throng the beaches; and finish among the otherworldly beauty of the Antarctic Peninsula. Flexibility is the hallmark of expedition style, so the day-by-day itinerary often changes to take full advantage of rare wildlife sightings, like whales feeding off the ship’s bow, or perfect conditions to embark on an evening Zodiac excursion.  

Discover four iconic regions in the company of top naturalists, National Geographic Photography Experts, and some of the most experienced polar captains in Antarctica, with 55+ years of expedition heritage. Navigate Chile’s coastal fjords and explore spectacular Glacier Alley, where monumental glaciers calve into the sea. Visit Stanley, the capital of the Falkland Islands and a charming outpost of British culture tucked into a small bay. Observe elephant seals, gentoo penguins and 100,000 pairs of king penguins on a single beach in South Georgia. Seek out Antarctica’s iconic wildlife—including penguins, seals and orcas—and marvel at incandescent icebergs using a fleet of kayaks and Zodiacs.

The 138-guest Nat Geo Resolution expedition ship is technologically advanced, fully stabilized and equipped with a well-rounded set of exploration tools including an ROV and enough kayaks and Zodiacs to send all guests out exploring at the same time. Additionally, select cabins offer private balconies for special moments taking in the awe-inspiring wilderness and the bar tab is included for all passengers. The National Geographic Resolution is small enough to access remote locations yet large enough to provide a taste of luxury (qualifying her for our luxury Antarctica cruises).

Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Antarctica cruises, South Georgia cruises, Patagonia cruises and Patagonia trips.

National Geographic Patagonia, Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctica Odyssey Itinerary

Santiago, ChileUshuaia, Argentina, Fly to Santiago, Chile & Depart

Discover penguin colonies, rare wildlife and stunning landscapes on a 25-day Southern Ocean voyage to Patagonia, Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctica.

Route map of small ship cruise showing cruising path to and from Patagonia, Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctica

Arrive Santiago, Chile and transfer from the airport to the Ritz Carlton, Santiago (or similar).

ACCOMMODATIONS Ritz Carlton (or similar)
MEALS N/a

Today, fly south on the recommended flight to Ushuaia, the world’s southernmost inhabited city, and meet the ship; transfers to the airport, and hotel and luggage assistance, will be provided.

ACCOMMODATIONS National Geographic Resolution
MEALS Breakfast

Sail into southern Patagonia’s vast wilderness of forested isles, mirror-like lakes and snowcapped peaks. Myriad fjords cut between soaring granite walls and waterfalls tumble from high above. Explore the region known as Chile’s “Glacier Alley,” part of the UNESCO-recognized Cape Horn Biosphere Reserve. Cruise into the secluded Pia Fjord, admiring views of its massive glacier; and glide into Garibaldi Fjord in Alberto de Agostini National Park, where the Andes meet the sea. Get up close to the monumental wall of ice that marks the edge of Garibaldi Glacier, exploring by Zodiac or kayak. Continue to Agostini Fjord, where numerous glaciers originate from the nearby mountains, for a chance to witness thunderous glacial calving.

ACCOMMODATIONS National Geographic Resolution
MEALS Breakfast

Today begins in Ainsworth Bay, a stunning fjord surrounded by subpolar forest at the base of Marinelli Glacier, where you’ll keep an eye out for elephant seals. Then cruise to Tierra del Fuego and venture into the archipelago’s largest protected land area: Karukinka Natural Park. Visit this private reserve by special permission, searching for an array of wildlife that includes Andean foxes, guanacos and black-browed albatross.

ACCOMMODATIONS National Geographic Resolution
MEALS Breakfast

The best parts of expedition travel seem to come together in the western Falkland Islands. Here, you can land on a beach tucked into a rocky cove, hike out across a rolling green pasture, and suddenly find yourself at the crest of a sea cliff looking out over the South Atlantic surf. Witness a breeding colony of black-browed albatross, and check out thousands of irresistible gentoo, rockhopper and Magellanic penguins that congregate on the shores, along with fur seals.

Stanley, the colorful capital of the Falkland Islands, is a wonderfully unexpected place: a charming outpost of British culture tucked into a small bay on the shore of these windswept islands in the far South Atlantic. Many Falkland Islanders still live in very traditional ways, and there will be a chance to visit a small farm to see some expert sheep shearing and learn the best techniques for cutting blocks of peat for the fire. The rocky hills and white sand beaches outside town offer some excellent hikes, and afterward, a cup of tea or a pint at the local tavern goes down very nicely.

ACCOMMODATIONS National Geographic Resolution
MEALS Breakfast

During the time at sea, learn about the fascinating history of Antarctic exploration, as well as the flora, fauna and geology of South Georgia. Your naturalists will help identify the seabirds that follow the ship: wandering albatross, prions and black-browed albatross.

ACCOMMODATIONS National Geographic Resolution
MEALS Breakfast

Simply put, there are very few places in the world like South Georgia. Often referred to as the “Serengeti of the Southern Ocean,” for its jaw-dropping abundance of wildlife, this rugged and remote island offers one of nature’s most dazzling spectacles: tens of thousands of king penguins, the second largest species in the world, all nesting together on a single two-mile-long beach. It’s also home to huge elephant seals and playful Antarctic fur seals.

In keeping with the nature of an expedition, the schedule is flexible with opportunities for walking, hiking, kayaking and Zodiac excursions as you explore South Georgia’s spectacular coastline. Enjoy a variety of activities each day, including visits to Grytviken—the final resting place of Shackleton—and Stromness Harbor, where Ernest Shackleton, Tom Crean and Frank Worsley finally reached aid at a whaling station.

ACCOMMODATIONS National Geographic Resolution
MEALS Breakfast

As the ship voyages towards the Antarctic Continent, head up to the Bridge to watch for icebergs and observe expert navigation at work as your skilled captain and officers sail these historic waters. There will also be time to enjoy a massage in the wellness center, work out in the gym and browse in the library. Each day, the naturalists offer talks that add depth to your experience.

ACCOMMODATIONS National Geographic Resolution
MEALS Breakfast

With long hours of daylight at this time of year, there are ample opportunities to explore. The schedule is flexible, making it possible to take advantage of the unexpected, whether watching whales at play off the bow of the ship, hiking alongside penguin highways or enjoying an evening Zodiac cruise amid porpoising penguins.

While wildlife is magnificent, ice defines the Antarctic. Get to know ice up close and personal—from icebergs the size of islands, bergy bits and near-vertical glaciers, to the fragile, nearly invisible layers that have just begun to freeze. One day, set out by kayak to encounter towering icebergs at water level; embark on a Zodiac excursion in search of seals and blue-eyed shags; or walk amid thousands of Adélie and gentoo penguins. The next, experience the thrill of the ship crunching through pack ice.

No matter where you go in Antarctica, you’re surrounded by opportunities to capture uniquely beautiful images. Along the way, your expert expedition team will enrich every experience.

ACCOMMODATIONS National Geographic Resolution
MEALS Breakfast

This 500-mile-wide strait between the Antarctic Peninsula and South America is one of the most famous bodies of water in the world. Sometimes ferocious, sometimes flat calm, the Drake is always a fascinating place in its own right. This part of the journey is the best opportunity to see gorgeous seabirds like the wandering albatross, and you might be lucky enough to encounter orca whales or rare species of dolphins. Visit the Bridge (a great place to spot wildlife), attend a talk about the biology of the penguins you’ve just seen or settle into a comfy chair in the observation lounge to look out over the waves and reflect on your incredible journey. Toast your epic voyage at a festive farewell dinner. Savor your final moments aboard ship as it makes its way toward Cape Horn, the southernmost tip of the South American continent.

ACCOMMODATIONS National Geographic Resolution
MEALS Breakfast

Disembark in Ushuaia and board the recommended flight to Santiago to connect with your flight home; transfers to the airport and luggage assistance will be provided.

ACCOMMODATIONS n/a
MEALS Breakfast

Included

Expedition parka to keep; all accommodations; all meals as indicated; beer, wine & full bar; excursions; services of expedition leader, naturalist staff and expert guides; use of kayaks; entrance fees; all port charges and service taxes; basic WiFi (enhanced and premium packages available for purchase). Gratuities for all departures of National Geographic Explorer, Orion, Endurance, Resolution, Sea Cloud, Jahan and Lord of the Glens.

Exclusions

Mandatory charter flights between Ushuaia and Santiago (inquire for pricing); immigration fees; air transportation; extensions; meals not indicated; reserve wines & premium spirits; gratuities for all departures of Delfin II, Endeavour II, Islander II, Venture, Quest, Sea Bird and Sea Lion; personal items such as emails, laundry, voyage DVD, etc.; and insurance of any kind.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 15% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days before the departure date. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person fees, based on number of days prior to departure:
120 or more days – 100% of deposit**
119 to 90 days – 50% of total trip cost
89 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
**Advance payments will be credited in the form of a Lindblad Expeditions Travel Certificate, valid for 12 months from the date of cancellation, and which may only be applied towards final payment on any future booking.

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The National Geographic Patagonia, Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctica Odyssey cruise begins and ends in Santiago, Chile (SCL). Plan flights to arrive in Santiago, Chile by 11:30am on Day 1 of the itinerary. Plan flights to depart from your departure city no earlier than 9:00pm on the final day. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Internal Flights

Group charter flights between Santiago, Chile and Ushuaia, Argentina are required on this trip’s itinerary; see this trip’s Exclusions and inquire with an Adventure Specialist for pricing. There is a strict luggage limit of one or two checked bags weighing up to 51 lbs (23 kg) combined, and one carry-on bag weighing up to 17 lbs (7 kg) plus a personal item that can be stowed under the seat.

Activities

Activities included aboard this expedition include Zodiac cruises, hiking and kayaking. Other activities may include yoga and stretching, land treks, glacier viewing and wildlife observation.

Room Configuration

In addition to listed Solo cabin rates, select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. If you would like to share accommodations with another guest of the same gender, we will be happy to try to accommodate you in select cabin categories. This program allows you to pay the per person double-occupancy rate whether or not a roommate is found. Contact AdventureSmith for further details and availability.

Families & Children

Skilled staff members trained with National Geographic Education organize activities that inspire curiosity in young people of all ages. Programming for kids may include activities like photo workshops, journaling, scavenger hunts, Zodiac-driving lessons, hands-on nature and science programming and kid-friendly menu options. See the Deals section of this trip for any applicable child discounts.

Travel Insurance

Emergency medical evacuation insurance is recommended but not mandatory for this trip. Trip cancellation insurance is optional but also highly recommended. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance  or  get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Read this itinerary as a guide only; the exact route and program varies according to ice, weather conditions, wildlife encountered and the captain’s discretion. Flexibility is the key to the success of any Antarctica expedition. Visits to research stations depend on final permission.

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Learn About the Small Ship on Your Itinerary

The National Geographic Resolution is one of the newest additions to the National Geographic fleet. This expedition ship is specifically designed for stability, efficiency, scholarship and long-range exploration in the polar regions.

Luxury 138 GUESTS 408 FEET

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