Highlights of Antarctica, Argentina & Brazil - Cruise & Land Journey: 22 days Buenos Aires to Rio de Janeiro

Welcome to Buenos Aires, where you’ll stay overnight. Perhaps plan to spend some time in the city, nicknamed the ‘Paris of South America’. Resplendent with Belle Époque 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 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. Enjoy an overnight stay at your hotel.

Depart Buenos Aires on an included flight to Ushuaia the gateway to Antarctica and the world’s southernmost city, nestled on the rugged shores of Tierra del Fuego. The Captain and crew will warmly greet you as you board your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht.

Raise a glass of Champagne as you set sail through the legendary Beagle Channel, tracing the path of Charles Darwin’s historic voyage. From your private verandah or the Observation Deck, take in breathtaking views of the snow-capped Andean peaks and pristine Patagonian wilderness—marking the beginning of an unforgettable expedition.

Enjoy breakfast in your suite as your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht navigates the legendary Drake Passage bound for Antarctica. Take in the vast expanse of the Southern Ocean as moment brings you closer to an unforgettable adventure.  

Feel the excitement building up as the Discovery Team shares with you all the details on how your Zodiac, helicopter^, submarine^ and other discovery expeditions will work. Get familiar with the team and your polar equipment – your expedition kit includes an expedition parka and water bottle that are yours to take home, plus the use of specialised polar boots, trekking poles and specific equipment you need for kayak and paddleboard excursions. Between landings, your outdoor gear will be stored in a personal locker in our convenient Discovery Centre. Prepare yourself for unparalleled ‘pinch-me’ moments, and be exposed to the unpredictability of the region, with your expert team deciding the course of action in the coming days.  

The team will make every attempt to have many landings and Discovery Excursions, including Zodiac tours, kayaking and optional helicopter^ flights and submarine^ dives. 

Today you will enter Antarctic waters, an unpredictable but stunningly beautiful environment. Put on your complimentary polar parka and head to the Observation Deck to spot icebergs for the first time – it’s a feeling that will stay with you forever.

Watch out for whale blows in the distance. Your Discovery Team is available to provide insightful information.

Be sure to check your daily program for the essential biosecurity and boot fitting schedule. And join the fascinating enrichment lecture on marine and seabird life – a captivating experience that will enhance your knowledge and connection to the natural world around you. 

Slide open the floor-to-ceiling doors of your verandah suite to see icebergs sculpted by nature and glacial mountains rising from the ocean. Antarctica is a birdwatcher's delight, home to a variety of species, so keep your eyes peeled for wandering albatrosses, shearwaters, giant petrels and more. 

Due to the extraordinary nature of the region, excursions throughout your Expedition Voyage are dependent on weather conditions. Your experienced Captain and Discovery Leader, who have made countless journeys to Antarctica, will use their expertise to design a bespoke voyage, making the most of your time in this spectacular destination.  

Scenic Discovery:
Daily experiences may include cruising on Zodiacs, stepping ashore to view vast penguin rookeries or historic huts, and kayaking or paddle boarding around icebergs. Wherever your voyage takes you, you will have countless “pinch me" moments.

Start your day with freshly squeezed juice, steaming barista-made coffee or tea delivered to your door by your butler. Then set out on Zodiac excursions to explore breathtaking glaciated bays, tranquil channels and pristine landing sites. As you trek across the Antarctic wilderness, meet the adorable chinstrap, Adélie and gentoo penguins that inhabit this magical region

Small groups offer the best way to experience an environmentally sensitive destination like Antarctica. Guests will board the zodiacs according to their designated colour, where our expert polar Discovery Team will guide them, ensuring an unforgettable and unique adventure.

Various species of penguins can be found in Antarctic and the sub-Antarctic region, including Adélie, Chinstrap, Gentoo, and the very rare Emperor. Guided by the expert Discovery Team, you’ll witness colonies up close; hear their calls and watch as they clumsily waddle along and interact with each other.  

Whales are another majestic creature you may encounter, whether a minke, a humpback or an Orca. Watch them up close in a kayak or a Zodiac with the Discovery Team or observe them from the comfort of your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht. However, you see them, it’s a breathtaking experience. 

Scenic Discovery:
Ask your expert Discovery Leader for photography tips so you can best capture the incredible wildlife and landscape around you. 

From the moment it was discovered, Antarctica has held an irresistible allure for intrepid adventurers. The bold exploits of legendary explorers like Scott, Shackleton, and Amundsen have fueled its mystique, inspiring generations to venture into this untamed wilderness. 

On this unforgettable day, you’ll cruise past Antarctica's stunning icy mountains before stepping ashore by Zodiac to immerse yourself in the polar wilderness. With ample time to explore, this voyage ensures you experience the magic of this awe-inspiring landscape up close. 

Back on board, enjoy a specialty tea or coffee in the Observation Lounge and take in the views through Swarovski telescopes. 

In the untouched silence of this frozen wilderness, nature’s rare sounds become unforgettable—whether it’s the endearing chatter of penguins squabbling over prized pebbles or the thunderous roar of a glacier calving into the sea. 

Towering glaciers provide one of the most awe-inspiring spectacles of your journey, with the chance to witness massive ice formations breaking away, creating brand-new icebergs before your eyes—a moment of pure wonder. 

On board, explore some of your Discovery Yacht’s indulgent spaces, from the welcoming Observation Lounge to the expansive Senses Spa#. Choose one of up to 10 world-class dining experiences on board tonight.  

On your ultra-luxury yacht, every moment is crafted for both comfort and connection. Our inviting lounge provides the perfect setting to unwind and share unforgettable experiences with like-minded travellers. 
For those craving adventure, the legendary Polar Plunge offers a thrilling rush—an unforgettable dive into icy waters, expertly coordinated by the Expedition Leader and Captain. 

If you prefer to stay warm, find a prime viewing spot and enjoy the spectacle as fellow guests take the plunge, then join them for a toast with a glass of whiskey or a steaming cup of hot chocolate. 

Scenic Discovery:
Glide past towering icebergs on a zodiac, step onto untouched white snow, and soar over vast mountain ranges. This is one of the world's few remaining pristine wildernesses, awaiting your exploration.

As you cruise back across the Drake Passage toward South America, take this time to indulge in the ultra-luxury comforts of your Discovery Yacht and reflect on the awe-inspiring moments you’ve experienced. 

Start your day with an invigorating workout in the state-of-the-art gym, a guided Pilates session, or a moment of relaxation in the PURE: Yoga & Pilates Studio.  

As evening arrives, unwind in the elegant Scenic Lounge Bar, where you can toast to your expedition with a perfectly aged whiskey, a glass of fine wine, or a flute of French Champagne—all part of Scenic’s truly all-inclusive ultra-luxury philosophy.

Make sure you book a treatment# at the tranquil Senses Spa before your expedition ends. Perhaps an ESPA facial or massage# or an alternative therapy including Ayuverdic massage or Japanese shiatsu. Afterwards, hold on to that feeling of calm for a while longer in the Zen-like space of the Vitality Lounge. 

On your last night onboard for dinner choose from Koko’s Asian Fusion Sushi @ Koko’s (available by on board reservation) to watch the chefs at work or enjoy the spectacle of teppanyaki-style dining inspired by the markets of Asia at Night Market @ Koko’s (available by on board reservation).  

This morning, your Antarctic voyage comes to an end. After a final breakfast on board, continue your journey by private charter flight to Buenos Aires, Argentina’s vibrant and captivating capital.  On arrival, step into the city’s unmistakable energy, where elegant boulevards, café culture and a lively atmosphere offer a striking contrast to the stillness of Antarctica. A seamless transfer brings you to your hotel for a three-night stay, where the next chapter unfolds through curated experiences showcasing the culture, cuisine and distinctive spirit of South America. 

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.

Scenic 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 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 city's vibrant urban art scene. or embark on a culinary adventure to discover the secrets of authentic Argentinian cuisine on a food walking tour.

Scenic 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 Scenic Special Stay at the Gran Meliá Iguazú — the only hotel located within the Argentinian side of Iguazú National Park. This sophisticated, contemporary retreat offers spacious rooms and a tranquil atmosphere enveloped by lush rainforest. Blending natural wonder with refined comfort, it provides the perfect setting to both explore and unwind.

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 
Take to the skies on an optional helicopter flight and soar above Iguazú Falls for a breathtaking bird’s-eye view of this natural wonder. (Additional cost, please book on tour.) 

This morning, visit the Argentinian side of the falls, before the park gates open to the public. 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.

Settle into the refined comfort of the Fairmont Rio de Janeiro Copacabana for a three-night Scenic Special stay, where sophisticated design meets exceptional service and world-class amenities.

Scenic Sunset Drinks
Enjoy Scenic sunset drinks at the Sugarloaf Mountain, 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, savour a mouth-watering Brazilian churrascaria experience, where expertly grilled meats are carved tableside and served in true local style.

Embrace the diversity of Rio de Janeiro with two enticing Scenic Freechoice options.

Learn about the garden's vital role in preserving Brazil's unique flora and fauna. Alternatively, delve into the heart of Rio's 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.  

Scenic Freechoice:
Botanical Garden: Walk through the World Heritage-listed biosphere reserve Jardim Botânico while learning about its unique history, admiring thousands of species of plants and looking for monkeys.

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 Janeiro's airport to begin your journey home. Take with you cherished memories of your time discovering the treasures of Patagonia, Antarctica, Argentina and Brazil on an incredible journey across land and ocean.

#Spa treatments at additional cost. +All drinks on board, including those stocked in your mini bar, are included, except for a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, Champagnes and spirits.  Specialty restaurants require a reservation, enquire on board. ^Flights on board our two helicopters and submersible experiences are at additional cost, subject to regulatory approval, availability, weight restrictions, medical approval and weather conditions. Sightings cannot be guaranteed.

The itinerary on this page is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the land journey or the cruise will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.