Situated on Argentina’s stunning Rio de la Plata coast, Buenos Aires is a thriving portside capital defined by a rich history, vibrant culture, and strong European influence - thus nicknamed the Paris of South America. Countless museums covering a cornucopia of subjects; an active theatre culture; carnivorous buffets second to none; sensuous tango performances; a mosaic of architecture; and shops to fit all fancies – all these facets and more make up the seductive blend that is Buenos Aires. Some of the city’s highlights include the buzz of the La Bombonera Stadium; tango and milonga venues like the Bohemian La Catedral; and heritage architecture such as that at the Cementerio de la Recoleta, where visitors can wander through a ‘city’ of massive statues and marble mausoleums. Don’t miss the International Festival of Independent Cinema and the vibrant annual Pride Parade.
Widely regarded world’s southernmost city, Ushuaia is a strikingly beautiful destination on the southern coastline of Tierra del Fuego Island, backed by mountains and facing onto Beagle channel. The city’s elegant commercial centre offers a variety of cultural and entertainment activities, while its natural location means that adventure enthusiasts are spoilt for choice, with kayaking, skiing, hiking and sailing all on offer. For a more serene excursion, boat cruises are a popular way to view the glacier off Ushuaia’s coast.
Set in the icy South Atlantic Ocean, east of the southern tip of South America, the South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands are a cluster of scenic islands which serve as an oasis in the stormy southern seas. These remote sub-Antarctic island groups are home to a variety of wildlife including, large colonies of seals, whales, penguins and other birdlife such as albatross and petrel. Dubbed ‘The Alps in the mid-ocean’, this British Overseas Territory is known for its rugged natural beauty, with its dramatic landscape featuring snow-capped peaks, ancient glaciers, and emerald green bays dotted with abundant wildlife. The scenic archipelago draws visitors from all over the globe and is known for being one of the most visited locations in Antarctica.
Warmer and more accessible than the rest of Antarctica, the Antarctic Peninsula is a popular destination for those wanting to experience one of the most captivating landscapes on the planet. Snow-capped mountains descend into icy blue waters dotted with magnificent icebergs and numerous islands. Although it only extends 1300km into the ocean, the peninsula is home to a wide variety of wildlife species that include penguins, whales and seals. Activities include trips to a volcanic island, swimming in the hot springs of Pendulum Cove, and the chance to cross the Antarctic Circle.
Sandwiched between the South Shetland Islands of Antarctica and South America's Cape Horn, the Drake Passage is said to be the roughest sea passage in the world. Stretching for 800 kilometres in width, this renowned passage is the point where the Pacific, Atlantic and Southern seas meet to create an area known for its crashing mix of high winds and tumultuous waters. This two-day crossing brings its own rewards, with visitors enjoying an exhilarating cruise on an Antarctic expedition vessel and spotting an array of wildlife in the icy waters, including dolphins, whales, and seabirds such as petrels, albatrosses and penguins.
