Journey to Antarctica: The White Continent
Trip Overview
Trip Length: 14 Days
Price Point: $15,977/person (does not include airfare)
Seasons Available: Winter
This is the classic National Geographic voyage to the Antarctic Peninsula, where vast white mountains stretch endlessly, and massive glaciers send icebergs into the sea. Navigate through channels and coves framed by towering peaks, watch for whales from the deck, and cruise around giant icebergs in Zodiacs. You can hike, kayak, or even try cross-country skiing in complete tranquility. Whether you choose an active adventure or prefer relaxing onboard with fellow travelers, you’ll also have the chance to capture breathtaking shots with guidance from a National Geographic Photography Expert.
Activities & Sights
- Explore the world’s last great wilderness alongside a team of expert naturalists as you celebrate Lindblad’s 50-plus years of expedition heritage.
- Hike through breathtaking mountains, marvel at immense glaciers, and spot colonies of gentoo, Adélie, and chinstrap penguins in their natural habitat. This immersive experience lets you explore the unique landscapes and wildlife of the Antarctic, offering unforgettable encounters with the region’s iconic species.
- Kayak through calm, protected waters, paddling as playful penguins swim alongside you. This serene adventure offers a close-up encounter with nature, allowing you to observe these fascinating creatures in their natural environment, surrounded by the stunning Antarctic scenery.
- Zodiac cruise through ice-choked channels and explore distant shores on foot.
- Early November departures offer the chance to experience cross-country skiing or snowshoeing across the frozen sea ice, weather and conditions permitting.
- With National Geographic Global Explorers, our exclusive family program, kids and teens will dive into the wonders of this exhilarating region. They’ll learn about massive glaciers, humpback whales, and other incredible wildlife, while engaging in hands-on activities designed to inspire a deeper understanding of the natural world. This immersive program makes family travel both fun and educational, offering unique insights into one of the planet’s most remarkable ecosystems.
Day to Day Itinerary
- Day 1-2
Arrive in Buenos Aires (National Geographic Endurance) or Santiago (National Geographic Resolution).
You'll transfer from the airport to the Alvear Icon or a similar hotel (National Geographic Endurance) before heading out on a guided tour of the city's stunning Beaux-Arts palaces and parks. Visit Recoleta, the final resting place of Argentina's iconic first lady, Eva Perón, and enjoy a private visit to El Zanjon de Granados, one of the city’s premier museums.
If you’re arriving in Santiago, you’ll transfer to the Ritz-Carlton, Santiago, or a similar hotel (National Geographic Resolution) before a guided overview of this vibrant city set against the stunning Andes. Explore sites like the Plaza de Armas and experience the blend of old and new that makes this city so unique. In the early evening, gather for an informal reception and a drink at the hotel. - Day 3
Join the recommended flight to Ushuaia, where your airport transfers and luggage assistance will be handled. Nestled between ice-capped peaks and the cold waters of the Beagle Channel, Ushuaia, known as "El Fin del Mundo" or "The End of the World," is a fitting gateway to your adventure. Before departing, explore Tierra del Fuego National Park, draped in dense beech forests reminiscent of ancient Antarctica. Enjoy lunch aboard a private catamaran as you cruise the Channel, spotting South American sea lions and seabirds like the imperial cormorant. By evening, you’ll be comfortably aboard your ship, ready to meet the White Continent. - Day 4-5
At times wild and unpredictable, and at others serene and calm, this legendary 500-mile-wide Drake Passage separates South America from the Antarctic Peninsula. As you begin the crossing, feel the excitement build while seabirds like the wandering albatross soar nearby, and if you're lucky, spot killer whales or rare dolphins. Take this time to explore the ship, visit the Bridge for wildlife spotting, or relax with a massage. Attend an engaging talk on penguins' unique biology, or simply unwind in the observation lounge, watching the waves and reflecting on the history of this passage named after English privateer Francis Drake, yet first discovered by Spanish navigator Francisco de Hoces. - Day 6-10
With extended daylight during this time of year, you'll have plenty of opportunities to explore. A flexible schedule allows you to embrace the unexpected, whether it's spotting playful whales near the bow, hiking alongside penguins, or enjoying an evening Zodiac cruise with purposing penguins. While the wildlife is stunning, it's the ice that defines Antarctica. You'll experience it up close—from massive island-sized icebergs and towering glaciers to delicate, just-formed layers of sea ice. One day, you may kayak among towering icebergs, set out on a Zodiac to search for seals and shags, or walk amidst thousands of Adélie and gentoo penguins. The next, you'll feel the thrill of the ship cutting through pack ice. Every moment offers unique photographic opportunities, while your expert expedition team enhances each experience. - Day 11-12
Relax and enjoy the ship’s amenities as Antarctica fades from view. As you round the southernmost tip of South America, witness the meeting of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Use this time to review your photos or send a message home to loved ones. Later, celebrate your incredible journey with a special farewell dinner on board. - Day 13-14
Disembark in Ushuaia and catch our recommended flight to Buenos Aires or Santiago to connect with your flight home.
National Geographic Endurance or sister ship, National Geographic Resolution
The first new polar build in National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions’ 50-year history, the National Geographic Endurance, is named to honor explorer Ernest Shackleton and his legendary Transantarctic Expedition. The second new polar build, the National Geographic Resolution, honors the second voyage of the legendary Captain James Cook.
Both vessels are fully stabilized and hold the highest ice class (PC5 Category A), allowing adventurous guests to explore areas few have ventured to. An equally impressive feature is their capacity; each ship carries just 138 guests, demonstrating a commitment to expedition excellence over scale. With Scandinavian-inflected, luxuriously appointed interiors, their inviting spaces could be destinations in themselves. However, as National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions ships, their focus is on the world outside—featuring acres of window glass to keep you connected to the stunning views beyond and a fleet of expedition tools to facilitate exploration.
One of their most striking characteristics is their unique profile, thanks to the patented X-Bow®. This innovative design ensures a smooth and comfortable ride in all conditions, reducing bow impact for a quieter journey as well.
