Treasures of South America: Chilean Fjords to the Iguazu falls

Welcome to Buenos Aires, where you’ll have an overnight hotel stay. Perhaps plan to spend some time in the city, nicknamed the ‘Paris of South America’. Resplendent with Belle Epoque buildings, sidewalk cafes and green spaces, there’s the fiery passion of Latin America – a collective love for football, flame-cooked meats (asado) and the tango. Some of the highlights are La Boca, a colourful, creative mecca with a must-do art walk, and San Telmo, a former aristocratic neighbourhood that was abandoned during a 19th-century epidemic. Mansions were turned into conventillos (shared housing), boutique hotels, antique shops, and tango clubs, exuding a captivating bohemian vibe.

Fly from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia, the main island of Tierra del Fuego and the southernmost city in the world. The Captain and crew will warmly greet you as you board your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht, Scenic Eclipse. Toast the start of your once-in-a-lifetime expedition as you depart South America and cruise through the calm and scenic Beagle Channel, named so for the ship that carried Charles Darwin on his five-year discovery journey. Admire the dramatic views of the Andean mountains from the comfort of your private verandah or from the Observation Deck with its commanding view of the bow.

Sail through the iconic waters of Cape Horn, where the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans meet at the southernmost point of South America. Its a great place to spot sea lions, penguins and whales. Youll also cruise through the Murray Channel, named after British naval officer Captain John Murray. Be on the lookout for albatrosses and other seabirds that inhabit these remote waters. Join an introductory presentation about your expedition by the Discovery Team in the state-of-the art theatre. Feel the excitement building as they explain how your Zodiac and other Discovery Excursions will work in the coming days. The theatre is where you can watch talks, lectures, movies and documentaries during the day. At night, enjoy world-class productions from musical theatre and cabaret to pop music, dance and fun interactive game shows.

Navigate the labyrinth of the Chilean Fjords – its long narrow inlets and steep cliffs, channels and islands all carved by glaciers. From the Observation Deck, with its commanding view of the bow, marvel at the towering peaks, cascading waterfalls, and dense forests of this pristine wilderness. You will also witness Seno Garibaldi, one of a handful of advancing glaciers in the world, and cruise to Seno Pia Glacier where youll explore its ice crevasses and rivers. This area is a World Heritage listed Biosphere Reserve, and its rich waters are home to seals, sea lions and seabirds, including the impressive Andean condor. Ask for some insights from the expert Discovery Team; comprised of up to 20 members, this team of geologists, historians, ornithologists, marine biologists, and glaciologists is at the heart of your Expedition Voyage.

Cruise through the calm and scenic Beagle Channel, named so for the ship that carried Charles Darwin on his five-year discovery journey. Admire the dramatic views of the Andean mountains from the comfort of the ultra-luxury Scenic Eclipse. You will also cruise through the 64-kilometre Vockburn Channel, known for its stunning glacier views. Keep an eye out for seals, dolphins, and whales which frequent these waters. Watch this spectacular scenery slip by as you relax in a cabana on Deck 10. Alternatively, ask your butler to bring afternoon tea to your suite and relax on your private verandah.

Today, you will witness the awe-inspiring Aguila Glacier and Condor Glacier, which form part of the Darwin Mountain Range – named after Charles Darwin – in Alberto de Agostini National Park. This is the third largest park in Chile, comprising fjords, glaciers and ice fields among subpolar forests and snow-capped peaks. Marvel at the immense size of these ancient ice formations cascading down the mountainside into the sea. Aguila Glacier is particularly beautiful feeding into a mineral-rich lagoon that attracts wildlife.

Stand on the Observation Terrace as Scenic Eclipse cruises through the narrow passages of Magdalena Channel and Gabriel Canal, surrounded by towering cliffs and pristine wilderness. The Tucker Islets is a group of small islands and rocky outcrops in the Strait of Magellan, which is home to colonies of Magellanic penguins and other seabirds, such as skuas and petrels. Tonight could be the night you meet your new friends at Sushi @ Kokos for dinner. Enjoy entertainment in the state-of-the-art theatre and unwind with a nightcap at the Scenic Lounge Bar.

Cruise majestic Admiralty Sound, which is home to leopard and elephant seals and hugged by snow topped mountain ranges, wide bays and majestic fjords of Alberto de Agostini National Park. Go ashore to secluded Ainsworth Bay in a Zodiac, where you can get up close to towering glaciers and perhaps spot seals basking on the ice floes. You may also wish to enjoy your time on board with a visit to the gym for an invigorating workout or the studio for a Pilates class, some guided stretching or aerial yoga.

Cruise through picturesque Whiteside Canal today and the historic Strait of Magellan, which links the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Named after Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan in 1520, this was the primary passage for seafaring transport before the Panama Canal. Youll follow the journeys of early explorers such as Ferdinand Magellan and Sir Francis Drake. Learn about the rich maritime history of these legendary waterways from your expert Discovery Team. You may wish to spend time in the theatre tonight, which has advanced cinemascope technology and multiple viewing screens that create an immersive 270-degree experience, complete with a sparkly night-sky ceiling.

Punta Arenas is located at the southern extreme of Chile and serves as the gateway into Antarctica as well as Torres del Paine National Park. Overlooking the Strait of Magellan, the city flourished during the California Gold Rush – its prime position served as a haven for ships. The city will captivate you with its clean air, sophisticated European architecture and is renowned for kayaking. Nearby Magdalena Island is the breeding ground of Magellanic penguin colonies. When back on board, you may wish to book a treatment# at the tranquil Senses Spa. Perhaps indulge with an ESPA facial# or an alternative therapy including Ayuverdic massage#

Sail through the legendary Strait of Magellan and enjoy panoramic views of the rugged coastline out the open sea. Enjoy a specialty tea or coffee in the Observation Lounge and watch the world float by through Swarovski telescopes. Spend time with friends at one of 10 dining venues – enjoy a casual lunch at Azure Bar & Café or elegant affair at Elements. At night, enjoy a performance in the state-of-the-art theatre before you retreat to your ultra-luxury suite with a nightcap.

Discover Puerto Deseado, a picturesque port town that captured the attention of Charles Darwin for its seclusion and extraordinary wildlife. Its natural harbour is a protected area, where you may encounter Commersons and Peale dolphins, Magellanic and Patagonian penguins and several species of seabird. Youll also explore Isla Pingüino (Penguin Island), which is home to a colony of Magellanic penguins, and marvel at its rugged beauty.

After days of exploration, enjoy a sleep-in lulled by the rhythm of the ocean. A freshly squeezed juice, steaming barista-made coffee or tea delivered to your door by your butler will help start your leisurely day at sea. Have you visited the bridge yet? Thanks to the Captains open bridge policy, guests are welcome any time to learn more about the technical abilities of The Worlds First Discovery Yacht and see it in full operation. The bridge is also one of the best viewing areas on the ship.

Explore Punta Piramides, a World Heritage-listed nature reserve and an important breeding location for the endangered southern right whale, elephant seals and a large rookery of sea lions. Orcas also frequent the area and shorebirds also stop here on their annual migrations. When enjoying daily Discovery excursions, ask for your expert Discovery Leader for photography tips and guidance on how to spot the wildlife around you. They will help you immortalise these incredible moments while cruising on the Zodiacs, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding.

Today is another leisurely day at sea. Head to the gym for an invigorating workout or the studio for a Pilates class, some guided stretching or aerial yoga. Perhaps book a treatment# at the tranquil Senses Spa, from an ESPA facial# to an alternative therapy including Ayuverdic massage# Spend the afternoon at leisure in your luxurious suite or head for the spacious and elegant Scenic Bar Lounge to enjoy your beverage of choice, whether it be aged whiskey—there are over 130 varieties—or a glass of wine. Then choose from up to 10 world-class dining experiences for dinner.

Today is your final full day at sea, so make the most of the luxurious spaces on board Scenic Eclipse. Slide open the floor-to-ceiling doors of your suite to see the vast ocean vistas. You may request your butler to deliver breakfast to your suite or dine with fellow guests in the alfresco Yacht Club. Enjoy a dip in the Vitality Pool, followed by some time in one of the shaded oceanfront cabanas. Play a board game in the Observation Lounge, or head to the Sky Deck to sip on some Champagne while enjoying the fresh ocean breeze. Return to your favourite restaurant with your new friends or indulge in a private dinner on your verandah.

Arrive in Montevideo, Uruguays vibrant capital city that boasts a rich 300-year history and an eclectic melange of Art Deco and Neoclassical architecture. While its Rambla (beachside avenue) may not be as famous as Barcelonas, its much longer at 22 kilometres and traces the seaside almost the entire way. Most of the citys streets connect to the Rambla, making Montevideo an easy place to navigate and explore. Theres a collective love for meat, wine, football and celebrations, as well as an annual month-long carnival.

Your voyage on board Scenic Eclipse comes to an end this morning. Farewell the crew of Scenic Eclipse and disembark after breakfast to begin your handcrafted land journey. Take with you memories of a truly unforgettable cruise through Southern Chile and Patagonia. Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of the captivating Argentine capital. Transfer to your elegant hotel for a three-night stay. 

Discover the highlights and the hidden secrets of the famed ‘Paris of the Americas’ with your local guide today. Buenos Aires is an elegant city with pockets of colourful character, like Casa Rosada (the Pink House), the executive mansion and office of the Argentinian President. Explore soulful Recoleta, where leafy streets are lined with stylish boutiques, lavish townhouses and former palaces, as well as the famed Recoleta Cemetery. Discover La Boca’s colourful Caminito, with its multicoloured houses, street stalls and festive atmosphere.    Enrich This evening, experience the passion of Argentine tango at the Gala Tango show, accompanied by a sumptuous dinner and Argentinian wine.

Indulge in another delicious breakfast at your hotel’s L’Orangerie restaurant before delving deeper into Buenos Aires with a choice of Scenic Freechoice experiences.  Select between a tour with a local artist to uncover the citys vibrant urban art scene, or embark on a culinary adventure to discover the secrets of authentic Argentinian cuisine on a food walking tour.  Freechoice: Buenos Aires Street Art: Take a tour with a local artist to discover the vibrant urban art scene. Go off the beaten path to visit hidden art spots and open-air galleries. Buenos Aires Culinary Delight: Learn about Argentinian cuisine and authentic flavours on a culinary tour of the city. Enjoy local restaurants, traditional parillas (steakhouses) and Argentinian wine.

Depart Buenos Aires this morning and fly to the awe-inspiring Iguazú Falls, the world’s largest waterfall by volume, straddling the border of Brazil and Argentina. Enjoy an exclusive three-night Special Stay.

Wake up early this morning to watch the sun rising over the falls, a truly unforgettable experience. Then enjoy a leisurely tour to discover the Brazilian side of the falls. Stand on the walkway in the middle of the falls and be awed by this vast spectacle with 275 individual cascades spread over a four-kilometre crescent shaped cliff. Enjoy a lunch with a beautiful view inside the National Park. After lunch, take an exhilarating jet boat ride towards the base of the falls and feel its spray on your face.. Optional helicopter flight - Soar over Iguazú Falls on an optional helicopter flight (additional cost, please book on tour).

This morning, visit the Argentinian side of the falls. Around 80 per cent of the falls are on this side of the border and the many walkways that thread between the upper and lower falls allow you to get closer into the cliff face. Walk to the lookout where you will see the famous Devil’s Throat, the largest and most formidable waterfall within the entire system. Be awed by the sheer volume of water cascading over the falls. 

Fly to the vibrant city of Rio de Janeiro, famous for its golden beaches, lush jungle and colourful favelas, all under the watchful eye of Christ the Redeemer. The days are fuelled by sunshine and the nights by vibrant samba music. Check into your luxury hotel for a three-night stay.  Sunset Drinks Sundowners at the Sugarloaf Mountain, sipping drinks and savouring a local tapas dinner while taking in the breathtaking views of Rio at sunset.

Today, you will discover the beating heart of this exotic city. Take a fascinating walking tour through downtown Rio, home to the Metropolitan Cathedral and the Selaron Stairs. Learn about Rio’s history and culture and get a taste of the local lifestyle. Ride the cogwheel railway to the top of Corcovado Mountain to see the famous Christ the Redeemer statue, a national icon of Brazil. For lunch, indulge in a mouth-watering Brazilian Churrascaria experience.

Embrace the diversity of Rio de Janeiro with two enticing Scenic Freechoice options. Learn about the gardens vital role in preserving Brazils unique flora and fauna. Alternatively, delve into the heart of Rios downtown on a historical walking tour, exploring iconic landmarks. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of bustling marketplaces and witness the dynamic rhythm of daily life in this captivating city. Freechoice: Botanical Garden: Walk through the UNESCO biosphere reserve, Jardim Botânico (Botanical Garden) while learning about its unique history. See fora and fauna from around the globe, including monkeys, toucans and giant Amazonian water lilies. With over 6,500 different species of Brazilian and foreign plants, it is teeming with some of the most important and endangered fora in Brazil. Rio, City of Contrast: Take a fascinating walking tour through downtown Rio to see its most famous sights while hearing stories of the city’s history, culture and local lifestyle. Conclude your journey with a farewell dinner at a unique local restaurant.

Bid farewell to your Tour Director and fellow travellers as you transfer to Rio de Janeiros airport to continue your journey of wonder on board Scenic Eclipse. Take with you cherished memories of your time discovering the treasures of Argentina and Brazil. The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the journey will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.