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Swan Hellenic's 'Africa to America Antarctic Epic' offers intrepid explorers a mesmerising 20-night expedition aboard the SH Diana, departing from the vibrant Cape Town before traversing the South Atlantic to reach the icy frontiers of Antarctica, and finally docking at Ushuaia, the world's southernmost city. The journey begins in the Mother City of South Africa, where cultural and historical richness blend with stunning natural beauty, including the iconic Table Mountain. The expedition then takes adventurers to the remote South Atlantic outposts such as Tristan da Cunha, renowned for its steep Jacob's Ladder and charming distilleries.
As the SH Diana boldly voyages across the Southern Ocean, passengers are treated to the wild and untouched landscapes of the Antarctic Peninsula. Here, they witness colossal iceberg sculptures and calving glaciers while drawing close to thriving wildlife, such as Gentoo and Chinstrap penguins, seals basking on ice floes, and majestic whales. The journey concludes at Ushuaia, the gateway to Tierra del Fuego, where rugged history and breathtaking landscapes flare with ethereal beauty against the backdrop of snow-capped Andean mountains and the still waters of the Beagle Channel. This Swan Hellenic expedition undoubtedly promises an unforgettable adventure, immersing travellers in nature's most awe-inspiring creations and the poignant history of some of the world's most remote locales.
Cape Town, South Africa: Often known as the Mother City, Cape Town is an iconic port in South Africa influenced by diverse cultures such as Dutch, British, and Malay. Established in 1652 by Dutch explorer Jan Van Riebeeck, the city bears numerous remnants of its colonial past. Strategically positioned on a prominent trade route, Cape Town is a major hub for container shipping and the distribution of fresh fruit, alongside a thriving fishing industry supported by Asian fleets. The city's natural splendour is highlighted by landmarks like Table Mountain and Lions Head, along with expansive nature reserves and botanical gardens such as Kirstenbosch, which is renowned for its indigenous flora. Cape Town's weather is famously unpredictable, capable of shifting from sunny skies to dramatic thunderstorms in short order, reflecting the local saying that one might experience four seasons in a day.
Tristan da Cunha, Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha: Those seeking adventure may find Jacobs Ladder intriguing, with its steep ascent of 699 steps (equivalent to 600 feet). Meanwhile, aficionados of fine spirits will find a visit to the St. Helena Distillery essential, where the allure of White Lion Rum, Midnight Mist coffee liqueur, and juniper-flavoured gin beckon, providing insight into their craftsmanship and perhaps an opportunity for tasting.
South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands: South Georgia, is a remote and starkly beautiful destination offering stunning landscapes of rugged mountains, vast glaciers, and diverse wildlife. This sub-Antarctic island is renowned for its deep history of exploration, whaling, and scientific endeavours, making it a fascinating location for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands: Continuing the exploration of South Georgia, visitors can marvel at the abundant wildlife, including vast colonies of king penguins, elephant seals, and countless seabirds. The island's dramatic scenery provides a surreal backdrop, enriching the experience of this secluded haven.
Antarctic Peninsula, Antarctica: Antarctica offers a remote and awe-inspiring experience, notable for its magnificent iceberg formations and calving glaciers, as well as opportunities for close encounters with marine life and the iconic penguins. The Antarctic Peninsula, the section of the continent nearest to South America, boasts a two-century human history involving explorers, sealers, whalers, and scientists. Nowadays, intrepid travellers visit to appreciate this unspoiled wilderness, characterised by protected bays, untouched snow-capped peaks, and vast expanses of glaciers, alongside historical sites of whaling and scientific station remnants. Equally captivating are the many Gentoo and Chinstrap Penguin colonies, seals lounging on ice floes, and appearances of whales and orcas.
Antarctic Peninsula, Antarctica: This remarkable region continues to inspire with its dramatic ice formations and fascinating wildlife encounters. The serene bays and towering, snow-covered mountains provide a spectacular setting for observing marine mammals and penguins in their unspoiled natural habitat.
Antarctic Peninsula, Antarctica: With each passing day, the mesmerising allure of the Antarctic Peninsula deepens. The tranquil encounters with wildlife among the majestic icebergs and serene waters create memories that will last a lifetime.
Antarctic Peninsula, Antarctica: The continuation in this enigmatic wilderness allows for further discovery of its raw and untouched beauty. The symphony of wildlife and the vistas of glaciated landscapes offer a fitting conclusion to this Antarctic experience.
Ushuaia, Argentina: Situated further south than the northern border of Argentina with Bolivia, Ushuaia is the capital and a vital hub for the island of Tierra del Fuego's tourism industry. While its physical beauty is undeniable, the allure of Tierra del Fuego is deeply entwined with its storied past. Inhabited for 6,000 years by the indigenous Yámana, Haush, Selk'nam, and Alakaluf people, this land was later transformed by the establishment of a penal colony in 1902, designed to populate Argentina's southern reaches. Subsequent to the prison’s closure in 1947, Ushuaia has evolved into a bustling frontier town. Its residents, descendants of diverse backgrounds, thrive on the burgeoning tourism trade, drawn by the town's dramatic landscapes and myriad activities. Visitors flock here for stunning treks to the Martial Glacier, engaging outdoor adventures in Tierra del Fuego National Park, and the allure of being in the world’s southernmost city.
Ushuaia, Argentina: As this expedition holiday concludes, Ushuaia's unique charm comes to the fore. Nestled at the world's edge, the town offers picture-perfect vistas cut against the dramatic landscape of the Andean mountains. Backdropped by history and adorned with the influences of modern tourism, Ushuaia provides a fitting closing chapter to this journey of discovery. Its rugged charm is palpable through its diverse architectural styles and vibrant cultural life, marking it as a destination where the wild meets the modern in breathtaking harmony.
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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