South Georgia and Antarctic Peninsula: Penguin Safari
South Georgia and Antarctic Peninsula: Penguin Safari
18 Days Starting and ending in Ushuaia
Visiting: Ushuaia, Argentina, Embarkation in Ushuaia, At Sea, South Georgia, Antarctic Peninsula, Crossing the Drake Passage, Disembarkation in Ushuaia
Tour operator:
Tour code:
GQMP
Group size:
1 - 138
Age range:
8-99 years
Interests:
Tour Overview
See thousands of penguins on the seldom visited South Georgia Island and the 7th Continent- Antarctica. On this 19-day adventure to the Antarctic Peninsula, you’ll sail through ice floes, photograph massive albatross and watch the pintado petrels as they soar around the ship, guiding you to South Georgia. Make Zodiac excursions to beaches teeming with penguins and elephant seals, and pay your respects to the famed explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton. Go further into the Antarctic Sea on your Zodiac boats and get as close as you can to the inquisitive Gentoo, chinstrap and Adélie penguins. Maybe even experience the rugged peninsula from a sea kayak, undertake an exhilarating hike up a glacier or sign up for an optional paddling excursion – this is the adventure you’ve been searching for!
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Ushuaia, Argentina
Location: Ushuaia, Argentina
Accommodation: Hotel
Welcome to Ushuaia – the gateway to Antarctica. Located at the southern tip of Argentina, these parts are known as Tierra del Fuego, often called ‘The End of the World’, but this is just the beginning of your Antarctic adventure. Those with a day or two may want to head to Tierra del Fuego National Park on a full day’s adventure, or if you've only got a few hours to kill, why not stroll around town and visit the waterfront overlooking the Beagle Channel. You might also like to sample some handcrafted chocolate at a local cafe in town. Tonight, you’ll have a welcome meeting at the hotel, then have free time to get ready for tomorrow!
Day 2: Embarkation In Ushuaia
Location: Embarkation in Ushuaia
Accommodation: Expedition Ship
Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner
This afternoon, you’ll board your ship and your epic adventure south will begin! Take some time to settle into your cabin as you begin cruising the stunning Beagle Channel, named after the famed vessel 'The Beagle' that facilitated some of Charles Darwin's most significant voyages. The channel transects the Tierra del Fuego archipelago in the extreme south of South America, and you’ll wave goodbye to Argentina with the knowledge that the next time you see land, you’ll be gazing upon the White Continent of Antarctica.
Day 3-6: At Sea
Location: At Sea
Accommodation: Expedition Ship
Over the next few days at sea, make the most of the many activities on offer – learn to identify the different seabirds that glide alongside the ship, or attend the informational presentations led by your expedition team. You’ll be prepped on the Zodiac cruises and shore landings with safety briefings and be given instructions for getting the most out of your optional sea kayaking adventures – highly recommended as it’s a truly intimate way to experience Antarctica.
If conditions are right, the first indication of South Georgia is the sight of birds around a group of rocky spires called Shag Rocks. Have your binoculars ready to capture these spires rising out of the ocean and keep a look out for breaching whales!
Day 7-9: South Georgia
Location: South Georgia
Accommodation: Expedition Ship
South Georgia is one of the most fertile breeding grounds in the world for sub-Antarctic wildlife and the beaches here are home to many penguins and seals. It won’t take you long to realize that you’re in a birdwatcher’s paradise! During landings, you’ll see seabirds, albatross and petrels in abundance. South Georgia, once a popular base for whalers and sealers, is also scattered with abandoned relics and evidence of human activity from centuries ago. Visit old whaling stations and enjoy presentations on the South Georgia of then and now.
One of the most significant sites you will visit on the island is Grytviken. This settlement is one of the first whaling stations established in sub-Antarctic waters. Grytviken possesses a special appeal largely because it’s the site of the grave of Sir Ernest Shackleton – one of the most famous Antarctic explorers.
Day 10-11: At Sea
Location: At Sea
Accommodation: Expedition Ship
Say goodbye to the colonies of penguins as you sail for Antarctica – the White Continent. Your next two days at sea will be filled with presentations and workshops led by your expedition team, who will prepare you for the wildlife and vast landscapes that will soon surround you. Make the most of the onboard amenities and sea views as you sail towards the blanket of white.
Day 12-15: Antarctic Peninsula
Location: Antarctic Peninsula
Accommodation: Expedition Ship
The next couple of days bring you to the 7th Continent, the White Continent – Antarctica. Sailing through the Antarctic Peninsula, you’ll discover a land of extremes. One moment, you’ll be overcome with complete isolation and silence, and the next you’ll be overwhelmed with inspiration as calving glaciers crash into the brilliant blue sea.
Your expedition team will be by your side as you go Zodiac cruising, visit historical sites and observe the amazing penguin colonies on land and ice. Chinstrap, Adelie and gentoo penguins are found here, along with Weddell, fur, crabeater and leopard seals. Keep a lookout for Antarctic whales, such as minkes, while on your daily Zodiac rides. You might even decide to treat yourself to an optional paddling excursion (at an extra cost) or jump into Antarctic waters for the Polar Plunge!
Day 16-17: Crossing The Drake Passage
Location: Crossing the Drake Passage
Accommodation: Expedition Ship
After days full of unique wildlife encounters and remarkable landscapes, your journey home begins. Crossing the Drake Passage is your unofficial rite of passage and over the next two days, you can spend time on deck watching for seabirds and whales, enjoying presentations by your expedition team, or simply relaxing and reminiscing with your group about your wild experiences.
Day 18: Disembarkation In Ushuaia
Location: Disembarkation in Ushuaia
Meals Included: breaksfast
After breakfast, it’s time to part ways and say goodbye to your expedition team. If you’d like to extend your stay in Ushuaia, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time, or fly home from here.
Transport
- Expedition cruise ship , zodiac
Accommodation
- 1 night comfortable hotel, 16 nights expedition cruise ship
Important Information
- This trip is operated on either the World Explorer or Ocean Explorer ship. Please check the dates and availability section to see which which ship is used on each voyage.
- Your voyage is operated by our sister company, Quark Expeditions. All accommodation and transfer arrangements as listed in the itinerary are also operated by Quark Expeditions or their local representatives.
- One nights pre expedition hotel is included in Ushuaia. The exact hotel will be provided on your final documentation.
- Your trip finishes in Ushuaia at the port on day 18 in the morning after breakfast, please do not book onwards flights on this day untill after 12 pm midday.
- BOOKING CONDITIONS
- To confirm your reservation, a deposit of 25% (unless indicated otherwise at time of booking) of the total invoice amount is required at time of booking. Balances are due 120 days prior to departure.
- Please refer to our ""Booking terms and conditions"" page on our website for all Quark Expedition terms and conditions, http://www.intrepidtravel.com/booking-intrepid/booking-conditions"
- ADVENTURE OPTIONS
- Sea kayaking and Padding excursions are available to book on the Ocean Explorer ship.
- Sea kayaking, Stand Up Paddle boarding and Padding excursions are available to book on the World Explorer ship.
- Some activities must be booked prior to departure and incurs an additional cost. Spaces are limited so please enquire at time of booking.
Check out our Q&As
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Is this trip right for you
World Explorer and Ocean Explorer both are ice-strengthened ships – large, sturdy and suited to the unpredictable Antarctic waters. Some people may experience seasickness in occasional rough seas however, we do have a doctor on board should you need assistance. Over-the-counter seasickness medication is usually an easy fix.
Temperatures in the Antarctic can get very cold, but it also can get surprisingly warm when the sun comes out. We recommend dressing in layers when you journey outside. We’ll provide you with waterproof boots on loan that are sturdy and warm, as well as a jacket that is yours to keep. Please see the Essential Trip Information for notes on what to pack.
Depending on the weather, you’ll be travelling around in a Zodiac boat quite regularly to explore the area and search for wildlife. It can get cold and wet on the Zodiac, so make sure you dress appropriately and keep your camera safe and dry. A fair level of mobility is needed for wet and dry landings from the boat, as well as on steep terrain, snow and other uneven surfaces.
The weather plays a pivotal part in this adventure and, although there’s an itinerary in place, there are no guarantees that you’ll be able to do everything that is planned. A level of flexibility and openness to embracing the unexpected are important in expedition travel, especially in such a remote area like the Antarctic. There are nearly 200 recognised sites in the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetlands and the places mentioned in the itinerary may need to be changed to other locations – which are just as interesting and beautiful! We may also be confined to the ship during rough weather, but there are plenty on onboard resources and activities. The ship’s library and educational lectures are ideal ways to stay entertained, while the fitness center, spa, and pool will keep you fresh for when the weather clears. -
What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room
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Saturday - Tuesday
Jan 24, 2026 - Feb 10, 2026Book with Confidence
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Free Date Changes
Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.
Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.
At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions