Adventure Across the Antarctic Circle with Quark Expeditions

Day 1 - Punta Arenas

Punta Arenas, Chile: The impenetrable forests, towering mountains, and expansive ice fields of Chilean Patagonia painted a picture of mystery until the early 20th century. Located in the country's southernmost reaches, this area remains sparsely populated, despite its beautiful landscapes and unique wildlife, including colonies of penguins and elephant seals. To the north lies Parque Nacional Torres del Paine, a stunning spectacle of snow-clad peaks rising abruptly from the plains. Its vistas, such as the Avenue of the Glaciers, are breath-taking. Punta Arenas itself was founded over 150 years ago, serving as Chile's first permanent settlement in Patagonia. This provincial city offers a glimpse into early prosperity with its charming architecture at Plaza Muñoz Gamero. Among its many attractions are the Museo Naval y Marítimo, Museo Regional de Magallanes, and Palacio Sara Braun—all testaments to its rich heritage. Don't miss a visit to the Isla Magdalena, home to more than 100,000 Magellanic penguins, or the Parque Nacional Torres del Paine for its dazzling natural phenomena and diverse wildlife.

Day 2 - King George Island

King George Island, South Shetland Islands, Antarctica: King George Island presents a rugged, remote landscape with rocky beaches, adding to its majestic allure. As Antarctica's first Orthodox church graces its terrain, the island hosts a plethora of wildlife—an embodiment of unspoiled beauty awaiting exploration.

Day 3 - Antarctic Peninsula

Antarctic Peninsula, Antarctica: This remote, otherworldly realm is renowned for its spectacular iceberg sculptures and calving glaciers. The possiblity of encountering marine mammals and the iconic penguins enhances the allure. The Antarctic Peninsula, with its rugged history of explorers and sealers for nearly two centuries, stands as a testament to human endeavour in this pristine wilderness, offering protected bays, unscaled mountains, and vast glaciers alongside a vibrant array of Gentoo and Chinstrap Penguins, seals, and whales.

Day 4 - South Shetland Islands

South Shetland Islands, Antarctica: South of Cape Horn, the first lands sighted on Antarctica expeditions, the South Shetland Islands are separated from the peninsula by the Bransfield Strait. This group of nine major islands, first settled by sealers in the 19th century, is the most visited by scientists and tourists. The islands support Chinstrap, Adelie, Gentoo, and Macaroni Penguins, as well as an array of seals. Its relatively mild climate supports a small but vibrant assortment of flora, including moss beds and lichens.

Day 5 - South Shetland Islands

South Shetland Islands, Antarctica: Continuing to explore the South Shetland Islands, appreciate them as the initial encounter with Antarctica's dramatic landscapes. With its accessible wildlife including penguin and seal colonies and its unique vegetation thriving in the milder Antarctic conditions, it offers a compelling glimpse into the continent's biological diversity.

Day 6 - Antarctic Peninsula

Antarctic Peninsula, Antarctica: Returning to the Antarctic Peninsula, this day invites further exploration of the region's magnificent natural features. With opportunities for unforgettable close encounters with diverse wildlife, the picturesque sceneries of protected bays, and the awe-inspiring glaciers and snow-capped mountains, this location remains a highlight of the journey.

Day 7 - Antarctic Peninsula

Antarctic Peninsula, Antarctica: Dwelling amid the secluded landscape of the Antarctic Peninsula offers fresh perspectives on its scenic splendours. This timeless environment, steeped in exploration history, continues to entice visitors with its enchanting wildlife and desolate beauty.

Day 8 - Antarctic Peninsula

Antarctic Peninsula, Antarctica: Immerse yourself further in the Antarctic Peninsula's magic before saying farewell. This final day on the peninsula allows more time to appreciate its serenity and majesty, whether through witnessing Gentoo and Chinstrap Penguins or simply taking in the scenic enormity.

Day 9 - Punta Arenas

Punta Arenas, Chile: Revisit Punta Arenas to conclude your expedition amidst the enchanting ambience of Chilean Patagonia. Endowed with its unique culture and historic enchantment, it's the perfect place to reflect on the journey through its iconic streets, rich with tales of maritime prowess and pioneering expeditions.

Day 10 - Punta Arenas

Punta Arenas, Chile: With its heritage-rich landmarks and myriad attractions, Punta Arenas guides you through an insightful walk into the past. Whether exploring historic museums or indulging in a visit to see the charismatic Magellanic penguins, this final day rounds off an unforgettable South American and Antarctic journey.