Antarctica, South Georgia and the Falklands - Reverse

• Day 1 - Overnight Hotel in Santiago

  Guests traveling aboard National Geographic Orion will fly to and from Ushuaia via Santiago, Chile.

  Extraordinary adventure is a guarantee on all of our Antarctica expeditions. Flexibility is a hallmark of our explorations, and often the shipboard day-by-day itinerary will change—so we may take full advantage of rare wildlife sightings, watching whales feed off the bow, or perfect conditions for a late day kayaking excursion.

  Guests traveling aboard National Geographic Orion arrive today in Santiago. We check in to the fine Ritz Carlton Hotel, centrally located in Santiago, and have the morning to relax. Santiago is nearly surrounded by the Andes, which form an inspiring backdrop to our afternoon guided overview of this vibrant city. We explore the Plaza de Armas, the main square, and nearby Presidential Palace, enjoying wonderful views from the many hills that dot the city.

• Day 2 - Fly to Ushuaia, Argentina; Embarkation Day

  Today we fly by private charter flight to Ushuaia, Argentina. This morning's charter flight will bring us over Patagonia before landing in Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world. If the weather is fine, you'll have a chance to view the spectacular mountains rising out of the Beagle Channel as you enjoy lunch on a catamaran cruise. Then, you'll embark the expedition ship and set sail.

• Day 3 - At Sea

  This morning you will awake in the "Furious Fifties", an iconic part of the Southern Ocean. Sometimes misty and gray, other times calm and clear, while crossing this legendary portion of the sea, you will be escorted by a host of sea birds, including the black-browed albatross. (B,L,D)

• Day 4/5 - Falkland Islands

  The Falklands boast the largest albatross colony in the world, irresistible Magellanic penguins in their burrows amid the green tussock grass and Peale's dolphins riding the waves. Stroll the photogenic tin-roofed, Victorian-style houses of Port Stanley. Visit the Anglican Cathedral with its organic archway of whalebones, and the Falkland Islands Museum. (B,L,D)

• Day 6/7 - At Sea

  Whales beneath, birds above, as you continue on. Our naturalists will prepare us for the exciting days ahead with presentations on the wildlife of South Georgia, and, of course, the inspiring story of Sir Ernest Shackleton and the Endurance. (B,L,D)

• Day 8/12 - South Georgia Island

  This is the final resting place for explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton and we’ll hoist a toast at his gravesite. Teeming wildlife and breathtaking scenery greet our ship as our Zodiacs make landfall. Vast penguin colonies give you the opportunity to be surrounded by tens of thousands of king penguins! (B,L,D)

• Day 13/14 - At Sea

  As we voyage, head up to the Bridge to watch for icebergs and observe expert navigation at work as our skilled Captain and officers sail these historic waters. There’ll also be time to enjoy a massage in the wellness center, workout in the gym, and browse in the library. Each day our naturalists offer talks that add depth to your experience.

• Day 15/19 - Antarctica

  With long hours of daylight, we make the most of our days exploring the Antarctic Peninsula and surrounding islands. Our schedule is flexible, allowing us to take advantage of the unexpected. We’ll sail through the incomparable Lemaire Channel and land on the “White Continent,” exploring via Zodiac, kayak and on foot, and using our arsenal of tools for exploration. (B,L,D)

• Day 20/21 - At Sea

  You'll awake this morning into your journey across the Drake Passage. Lying between Cape Horn and the Antarctic Peninsula, the Drake holds a unique place in maritime lore. The Drake Passage is unforgettable-a milestone in any adventurer's personal travel history. Your last days at sea will give you one more opportunity to watch for marine life and to reflect on all that you have seen and heard. Enjoy talks from the staff, bringing to summary the colossal scope of this voyage. (B,L,D)

• Day 22 - Disembark Ushuaia/Fly to Santiago

  After breakfast, we disembark in Ushuaia with some time to explore before proceeding to the airport for our LAN charter flight, Ushuaia to Santiago.

  Please confirm departure and arrival cities with an Expedition Specialist before booking your flights. (Day 22: B,L)

Please consider that our voyages are expeditionary in nature. This means, that there are no concrete itineraries, your Captain and Expedition Leader will utilise their vast experience to chart the best course for your expedition depending on the climatic and environmental conditions. Mentioned highlights and wildlife cannot be guaranteed.