Experience the cosmopolitain city of Buenos Aires - the Paris of the South, before a quick stop at the magnificent Iguazu Falls - one of the most visited sites in Brazil and Argentina. Then fly to Santiago to meet up with your cruise companions for your expedition of the Antarctica. A small-ship expedition cruise to Antarctica might be the single greatest adventure travel opportunity of your life. Live life to the full on this 11 day cruise with the most experienced expedition travel specialists who have been operating for over 40 years in the most wild place on earth. Enjoy the opportunity to travel with National Geographic experts and the most experienced Ice Team. Glide around enormous tabular icebergs by Zodiac, walk along beaches covered with thousands of penguins, and kayak amid abundant wildlife. Encounter Antarctica from the safety and comfort of the expedition ship, National Geographic Explorer, which has a capacity of 148 guests and all outside facing cabins. With a cap on the number of people allowed on islands at once, unlike some of the larger vessels with capacity over 200 passengers, all passengers on this cruise can disembark at the same time for daily excursions. The ship is a fully stabilized, ice-class vessel, enabling it to navigate polar passages while providing exceptional comfort.

On every expedition, two penguin researchers, supported by a joint fund with National Geographic, are on board, and they invite you to participate in penguin studies. An Undersea Specialist captures rarely seen footage of life beneath the icy surface. You can view these fascinating findings in the comfort of the ship’s lounge.

Enjoy a relaxing stay after your cruise in El Calafate and experience the magnitude of the Moreno glacier first hand on a private trek on the ice mass.

Cruise Departure dates are as follows:
2009: Nov. 5, Dec. 17, 28.
2010: Jan. 8, Jan. 19, Jan. 30, Nov. 28, Dec. 8, Dec. 18, Dec. 28.
2011: Jan.7, Jan. 17. Jan. 27, Feb. 5.
Additional days can be added pre or post cruise as per individual requests.
Special discounted rates available for the following departures:
2010: Jan. 19 & 30, Nov. 28, Dec. 8.

Day 1
BUENOS AIRES
Enjoy a private airport (International) transfer with professional driver.
Enjoy lunch at leisure (not included in tour price). The recently discovered ancient tunnels of Buenos Aires are one of the city’s best kept secrets. Enjoy a private half day city tour including a visit of these ancient passages and get to know Buenos Aires from the ground up! After being met at your hotel by your private vehicle, driver and English speaking guide, you’ll be brought to Plaza de Mayo, the city’s founding site and genuine starting point of Buenos Aires’ urban development. Next is San Telmo, a former enclave for local aristocracy. This charming colonial district, with its cobbled streets, has many artists studios and is one of the trendiest neighborhoods of the city. Also in San Telmo lies a recently unearthed treasure: the ancient subterranean tunnels. The construction of tunnels started in the colonial era, and continued well into the 19th century. From ancient times, many myths have been created around the tunnels: people said they witnessed secret encounters, disappearances, murders or even political conspiracies. Enjoy visiting one of these tunnels, a part of a 3,000 square meter labyrinth below the streets of San Telmo, made up of a long corridor with a vaulted ceiling and display cabinets exhibiting many items and utensils recovered during the excavation. Other areas that are included in your tour include La Boca, (which was strongly shaped by the working class Italian immigrants, with it’s make shift houses made from scrap materials found in local shipyards), Puerto Madero - Buenos Aires’ latest and most sophisticated neighborhood, and La Recoleta, where a short stop is made at the gorgeous Plaza San Martín, the Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar, (the city’s second oldest church), and the celebrated Recoleta Cemetery, an imposing labyrinth of ornate graves and mausoleums where some of the most important characters of Argentina’s political and cultural life (including Eva Peron) are buried. The last stop on the tour is at the area known as Palermo Woods. Next to the woods lie the splendid palaces built by the wealthy classes in the early 20th century to rival with Paris. Having gained an insightful experience of the city, you will be brought back to your hotel. Buenos Aires is the capital and largest city of Argentina, located on the southern shore of the Río de la Plata. The city has a spectacular legacy of architecture and parks, and its citizens consider themselves European. It is famous for the tango, superb restaurants, and the best shopping on the continent. The city has numerous museums related to history, and art in its many forms; fine, modern, decorative, popular, sacred and arts and crafts, as well as theatre and popular music. It is also known for its preserved homes of noted art collectors, writers, composers and artists. Considered one of the finest hotels in the city, the Sofitel Buenos Aires is a testament to hospitality and style. The 144 rooms are decked in rich textiles, and carefully planned color schemes set the atmosphere of delicious Argentinean and international taste at their best. The hotel is located in Recoleta, an exclusive area of the city, with plenty of sights and eateries nearby. However, you may well opt to dine in the hotel restaurant and bask in the flavors and surprises that the chefs sucessfully explore. If you can tear yourself away from this haven, be sure to watch a tango show and visit the numerous art galleries nearby. Enjoy dinner at leisure (not included in tour price).

Day 2
BUENOS AIRES
There are so many things to see and do in the city of Buenos Aires that you will be spoilt for choice. Consider a half day coastal train ride from Buenos Aires, taking in some of the sights of the city before arriving to the city of Tigre which is situated on the Lower Delta of the Paraná River, where a group of islands and streams open up like a fan. Enjoy a sail through this area and see how the complex river branches have formed attractive natural scenery and environmental landscape frequented by local wildlife. Alternatively, avail of one of the great golf courses in the suburbs of the city. Enjoy a shared tour to a traditional Argentine ranch where you can enjoy a barbeque meal and see some local dances and watch the gaucho countryman perform riding, taming, and lasso tricks. Or spend the day in nearby Uruguay visiting Colonia and/or Montevideo - both historical towns worth visiting, each of which include a sailing trip from Buenos Aires. If you are interested in art, tango, cooking or exploring the cafe culture of Buenos Aires, consider a themed private tour. Please speak to your Kensington Tours Sales Advisor if you are interested in any of these tour options. Enjoy lunch at leisure (not included in tour price). Enjoy time at leisure to explore at your own pace, or relax in your hotel. Enjoy dinner at leisure (not included in tour price).

Day 3
BUENOS AIRES-IGUAZU FALLS
Enjoy a private airport transfer with a professional driver. Relax on your domestic flight between Buenos Aires and Iguazu Falls. The direct flight is approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes. (Please note that flights are subject to changes based on availability). Enjoy lunch at leisure (not included in tour price). Enjoy a private airport transfer in Iguazu in the company of an English speaking Guide, private vehicle with a professional driver. Consider doing an hour and a half boat safari combining river navigation and jungle safari. After a 12km drive in a 4x4 vehicle into the jungle, learn about the wildlife of the area, before reaching "Port Macuco". From there, you can continue by powerful zodiac speedboats, 12km up river passing through the white waters of the lower Iguazu River and into the Devil's Throat canyon. You will also visit the "San Martin" and the "Tres Mosqueteros" falls to experience the force of nature. Stop for a quick and refreshing "shower" underneath it. Alternatively, enjoy a 2 hour tour encompnssing a short ride in a 4x4, a short walk in the forest, and a ride on inflatable boats which will take you out to bask in the grandeur of the Iguazu Falls, at an unbelievable proximity to its base. Experienced pilots maneuver in the midst of the misty Falls. Please speak to your Kensington Tours Sales Advisor if either of these activities are of interest. Iguazu Falls are located on the border of the Brazilian state of Paraná and the Argentine province of Misiones. The waterfall system consists of 275 falls along 2.7 kilometres (1.67 miles) of the Iguazu River. Some of the individual falls are up to 82 metres (269 ft) in height, though the majority are about 64 metres (210 ft). The Garganta del Diablo (Devil's Throat), a U-shaped 150-metre-wide and 700-metre-long (490 by 2300 feet) cliff, is the most impressive of all, and marks the border between Argentina and Brazil. The Sheraton Iguzau enjoys the enviable location of being by the incomparable sight of the Iguazu Falls which can be seen torenting downwards and is in plain view from the hotel rooms and lounging areas. The 180 rooms are attractive, with attentive staff ensuring a great stay. When dining at the hotel, you may well find yourself spellbound by the sheer grandeur of the natural forces surrounding you, as the gardens and water in this region are in such abundance. The international buffet and Argentinean barbeque offered at the hotel are enjoyable and should not be missed. Be sure to also try the hotel's spa treatments and facilities, such as the tennis court and fully-equipped gym. Enjoy dinner at leisure (not included in tour price).

Day 4
IGUAZU FALLS
Experience the Argentine side of the Iguazu Falls from Misiones, the area which borders Brazil. After being picked up by your private vehicle, professional driver and English speaking Guide, you will be transfered to Iguassu Park to take a train to the walkways. Marvel at the Iguassu Falls as you make your way along the walkway system. Stop by "Devil's Throat" and get up close to the Falls. On the way home, you may like to visit the Argentine shopping district and the 3-borders point where Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay meet before you are dropped back at your hotel. Enjoy lunch at leisure (not included in tour price). Enjoy time at leisure to explore at your own pace, or relax in your hotel. Enjoy dinner at leisure (not included in tour price).

Day 5
IGUAZU FALLS-SANTIAGO
Enjoy a private airport transfer in Iguazu in the company of an English speaking Guide, private vehicle with a professional driver. Fly from Iguazu Falls to Buenos Aires Domestic Airport. Transfer to Buenos Aires International Airport and fly to Santiago Chile. After being met at the airport, you will be transfered to the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Santiago where an early check-in will have been confirmed for you. Enjoy lunch (included in tour price). Enjoy a half day panoramic city tour with the other guests of your cruise as you are taken around the city to see the highlights. Your tour also includes a visit to the Pre-Columbian museum. At the end of the tour you will be dropped back to your hotel allowing you some time for some independent exploring or some relaxation time at your hotel. Santiago is the capital of Chile, and its largest city. Two decades of uninterrupted economic growth have transformed Santiago into one of Latin America's most modern metropolitan areas, with extensive suburban development, dozens of shopping malls, and impressive high-rise architecture. Santiago has an excellently preserved city square that is a very pleasant walk. It also boasts numerous museums, parks, churches and fine restaurants. Nearby vineyards are a popular day trip. Considered one of the top hotels in Santiago, Chile, the 5 star accommodations of the Grand Hyatt suit the tastes of even the most critical of travelers. The 310 rooms are decked in rich furnishings and fabrics, with a sleek design and luxurious bedding. High end technology is featured in each room, including Bang & Olufsen TV sets. The hotel is host to three international restaurants and two bars. Views of lush gardens add to each meal, which can range from Thai style or grilled seafood to Mediterranean-Italian fusions. Guests have access to a large selection of cardiovascular and body equipment at the fitness center, as well as an outdoor lagoon-style swimming pool.
Enjoy dinner (included in tour price).

Day 6
SANTIAGO-ANTARCTICA
Enjoy your organised airport transfer.
Enjoy views of Patagonia's rugged terrain as you fly from Santiago to Ushuaia. Enjoy a cruise on board a catamaran as you sail through the Beagle channel and savour a delicious lunch onboard. Enjoy lunch (included in tour price). Board the majestic National Geographic Explorer mid-afternoon before commencing your exciting cruise adventure. Antarctica is Earth's southernmost continent, overlying the South Pole. It is situated in the southern hemisphere, almost entirely south of the Antarctic Circle, and is surrounded by the Southern Ocean. About 98% of Antarctica is covered by ice, which averages at least 1.6 kilometres (1.0 mi) in thickness. The National Geographic Explorer is a state-of-the-art expedition ship. It is a fully stabilized, ice-class vessel, enabling it to navigate polar passages while providing exceptional comfort. It carries kayaks and a fleet of Zodiac landing craft. An Undersea Specialist operates a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) and sophisticated video equipment, extending access to the underwater world. Enjoy dinner (included in tour price).

Day 7
ANTARCTICA
We awake this morning well into our journey across the Drake Passage. Wandering albatrosses, storm petrels and other seabirds will escort the vessel as we sail south across this famous passage named after Sir Francis Drake, the 16th-century English navigator. We will continue towards the Antarctic Convergence, a biological barrier where cold polar waters sink beneath the warmer waters of the more temperate zone. In 1819, the British explorer William Smith described the South Shetland Islands as "barren and covered with snow, with seals in abundance". Yet, mosses and lichens thrive during the short summer at the low-lying peninsulas of these rugged islands located directly adjacent to the Antarctic Peninsula. Enjoy lunch (included in tour price). Enjoy dinner (included in tour price).

Day 8
ANTARCTICA
The first landfall on your cruise will be one of the many islands of the Antaractic Peninsula region, where you can enjoy taking hikes and zodiac forays with the Naturalists. Enjoy lunch (included in tour price). Enjoy dinner (included in tour price).

Day 9
ANTARCTICA
Enjoy daily excursions in the company of the on board Naturalists and Expedition Leader. Enjoy lunch (included in tour price). Enjoy dinner (included in tour price).

Day 10
ANTARCTICA
The National Explorer cruiseship has a capacity of 148 guests in 81 outside cabins and the overall Length is 356 feet. All cabins face outside with windows or portholes, private facilities and climate controls. Public areas include a Bistro Bar, Chart Room, Restaurant, Global Gallery, Library, Lounge with full service bar and state-of-the-art facilities for films, slideshows and presentations, Mud Room with lockers for expedition gear, and an Observation Lounge. The “Open Bridge” provides guests an opportunity to meet the Officers and Captain and learn about navigation. Meals are served in single seatings with unassigned tables for an informal atmosphere and easy mingling and the daily menu is international with local flair. Expedition Equipment includes Zodiac landing craft, kayaks, Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV), hydrophone, SplashCam, underwater video camera, Crow’s Nest remote controlled camera, video microscope, and snorkeling gear. For your welfare, all departures include a full-time doctor. Enjoy lunch (included in tour price). Enjoy dinner (included in tour price).

Day 11
ANTARCTICA
With nearly 24 hours of daylight at this time of year, you can make the most of the next six days exploring the Antarctic Peninsula and its surrounding islands. Throughout the next number of days the ship will roam freely in the azure waters. The expedition team is a veteran one, and their expert knowledge of Antarctica's waters will enable you to take advantage of the unexpected. There will be excursions daily allowing you to experience the Antarctica with all your senses as you walk, cruise in Zodiacs, and paddle kayaks through berg fields, hearing the Antarctic seltzer (gases escaping from dissolving icebergs) around you, the cries of the penguins, and the huge, nurturing silence of this perfectly pristine place. It is possible that the cruise will sail through the incomparable Lemaire Channel, where a hush falls over onlookers as bergs of beauty and scale drift by. Throughout the cruise you will learn to identify penguins, paddle kayaks through berg fields and land with Zodiacs on the "White Continent." Enjoy lunch (included in tour price). Enjoy dinner (included in tour price).

Day 12
ANTARCTICA
In places as wild as Antarctica, staff expertise is absolutely vital. The Expedition Team onboard The National Geographic Explorer will enable you to travel with a sense of comfort and confidence every moment of your Antarctica expedition cruise. The Captains and Expedition Leaders have decades of expedition cruises under their belts. They are true explorers, "Ice Masters," and will help turn you into one too. Can you imagine doing something as adventurous as kayaking among soaring icebergs in Antarctica? Thanks to years of research, kayaking in Antarctica is now an adventurous activity that is safe and exhilarating for all guests onboard this Expedition vessel, even first time paddlers.
Enjoy lunch (included in tour price). Enjoy dinner (included in tour price).

Day 13
ANTARCTICA
Together with National Geographic, Lindblad has raised nearly $600,000 (as of September, 2008) to support Oceanites, an Antarctic-focused non-profit organization seeking to gather information on penguin populations and the impacts of tourism. Oceanites scientists often travel aboard the ships and involve guests in fun research projects such as penguin-counting. Enjoy lunch (included in tour price). Enjoy dinner (included in tour price).

Day 14
ANTARCTICA
Under the Antarctic ice live some of the world’s most seldom seen creatures. On your Antarctic expedition cruise you will travel with the only Undersea Specialists, certified ice-divers, accompanying travelers in Antarctica. In the evening time, you can watch the exclusive Cousteau-like video footage they bring back in the comfort of the ship’s lounge complete with an expert explanation.
Enjoy lunch (included in tour price). Enjoy dinner (included in tour price).

Day 15
ANTARCTICA
Enjoy daily excursions in the company of the on board Naturalists and Expedition Leader. Enjoy lunch (included in tour price). Enjoy dinner (included in tour price).

Day 16
ANTARCTICA
Depending on weather conditions, one last landfall will be attempted before heading back across the Drake passage towards Ushuaia. Enjoy lunch (included in tour price). Enjoy dinner (included in tour price).

Day 17
ANTARCTICA-EL CALAFATE
On the sail back to Ushuaia, an albatross or two may join the avian escort of seabirds that cross the bow. There’ll be plenty of time to enjoy a wellness treatment, log some time in the gym, or catch up on the book you haven’t had a minute to read. Enjoy your organised airport transfer.
Enjoy lunch (included in tour price). Domestic flight between Ushuaia and El Calafate. Enjoy a private airport transfer with private vehicle, guide and driver. El Calafate is a little village in Patagonia, Argentina. It is situated in the southern border of Lake Argentino, in the southwest part of the Santa Cruz Province, about 320 km Northwest from Río Gallegos. The city is an important tourist destination as the hub to visit different parts of the Los Glaciares National Park, including the Perito Moreno Glacier (one of the most visited in the world) and the Cerro Chaltén and Cerro Torre. The Xelena Deluxe Suites are seated near the lakes of El Calafate, a small village in Patagonia in close proximity to the Perito Moreno Glacier. The hotel offers 71 beautifully decorated rooms promising rich spaciousness. The views are breathtaking, as you can take in the grandeur of the lake from their bedroom. Dine at the hotel restaurant or bar, or in one of the local restaurnats in town. The regular shuttle bus or a short stroll into town will allow you to get to know the simplicity of El Calafate. The main attraction in this area is the Perito Moreno glacier, one of the world's third largest reserves of fresh water. Make use of the hotel's fitness room and relaxation facilities if you are so inclined. Enjoy dinner at leisure (not included in tour price).

Day 18
EL CALAFATE
Enjoy a full day excursion to the Moreno Glacier and try your hand at ice trekking. After an early morning departure, the excursion begins in the port approximately 6 km from the Glacier Mirador. Enjoy a short sailing crossing across Lago Rico, where you will have the chance to see see Redonda Bay with many types of birds such as flamingos, black neck swans and upland geese as well as breathtaking views of the glacier's front walls and iceberg channel. After disembarking, your Specialised Mountain Guide will welcome you and lead you along the lakeshore until you reach the glacier (20 minutes). Once on the ice, your Guide will assist in putting on crampons and give instruction on how to walk on the ice. Enjoy a two hour circuit introducing you to the fascinating landscape of the glaciers; streams, small lagoons, crevasses and ice formations are just some of what you will see. The level of trekking is moderate and along the way your Guide will stop and explain the flora, fauna and general glaciology of the region. After the walk, enjoy a gentel stroll through a forest bring you back to the shelter. Enjoy an hour and a half visit of the Glacier balconies where you get some great views of the site before being brought back to your hotel in El Calafate. Enjoy lunch at leisure (not included in tour price). Enjoy dinner at leisure (not included in tour price).

Day 19
EL CALAFATE
Enjoy a private airport transfer with private vehicle, guide and driver. Kensington Tours donates a portion of our proceeds to our charitable initiative www.kensingtoncares.com which supports education-based initiatives in disadvantaged communities. Depart from International Airport. End of itinerary.