South Georgia and Antarctic Peninsula: Penguin Safari
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey with the "South Georgia and Antarctic Peninsula: Penguin Safari" expedition. This adventure begins in Ushuaia, Argentina, the gateway to Antarctica, where you'll board an expedition cruise ship. Sail through the Beagle Channel and across the Drake Passage, exploring the breathtaking landscapes of South Georgia and the Antarctic Peninsula. Witness the incredible wildlife, including bustling penguin colonies and majestic seabirds, during daily Zodiac excursions. Follow in the footsteps of Sir Ernest Shackleton and visit his gravesite, while learning about the region's rich history from onboard polar experts. Experience the awe of icebergs in countless shades of blue and enjoy optional activities like sea kayaking and the invigorating Polar Plunge. This expedition offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the icy wonders of the Antarctic, creating memories that will last a lifetime. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Ushuaia, Argentina
Location: Ushuaia
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: 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! ...more ...less
Day 2: Embarkation in Ushuaia
Location: Ushuaia
Accommodation: Expedition Ship
Accommodation Name: Expedition Ship
Meals Included: 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: South Georgia
Accommodation: Expedition Ship
Accommodation Name: 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
Accommodation Name: 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: Antarctica
Accommodation: Expedition Ship
Accommodation Name: 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
Accommodation Name: 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: Drake Passage
Accommodation: Expedition Ship
Accommodation Name: 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: Ushuaia
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.
What's Included
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Accommodation
1 night comfortable hotel, 16 nights expedition cruise ship -
Meals
17 breakfasts, 15 lunches, 16 dinners -
Wildlife Viewing
See South Georgia’s incredible wildlife both on deck and during daily Zodiac excursions to iconic landing sites, abundant with birdlife and busy penguins.
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Historical Exploration
Follow in the wake of Sir Ernest Shackleton’s perilous voyages to South Georgia and pause for a moment at his gravesite as you learn about the history of these islands.
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Antarctic Peninsula Exploration
Explore the Antarctic Peninsula by ship, Zodiac, and foot and witness icebergs in a hundred shades of blue.
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Informational Presentations
Learn about local wildlife, history, glaciology, and geology during informational presentations by your onboard polar experts.
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Optional Excursions
Immerse yourself in the icy realm of the Antarctic with an optional paddling excursion, hiking adventure, sea-kayaking, or an invigorating Polar Plunge.
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Expedition Cruise Ship
Travel on an expedition cruise ship with Zodiac excursions.
What's Not Included
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Adventure Options
Some activities such as sea kayaking and paddling excursions must be booked prior to departure and incur an additional cost.
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Booking Conditions
A deposit of 25% of the total invoice amount is required at the time of booking, with balances due 120 days prior to departure.
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, https://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.
Mode of Transport
Travel aboard an expedition cruise ship with daily Zodiac excursions, providing an immersive experience as you navigate the icy waters and explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Antarctic region.
Accommodation
Enjoy a comfortable stay with 1 night in a hotel and 16 nights aboard an expedition cruise ship, offering a unique blend of relaxation and adventure as you explore the stunning landscapes of South Georgia and the Antarctic Peninsula.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of wildlife can I expect to see on this tour?
You can expect to see a variety of wildlife including penguins, seals, seabirds, albatross, petrels, and possibly whales. The tour visits South Georgia, which is a fertile breeding ground for sub-Antarctic wildlife, and the Antarctic Peninsula, where you can observe penguin colonies and seals. ...more ...less
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Are there any optional activities available during the tour?
Yes, there are optional activities such as paddling excursions, hiking adventures, sea-kayaking, and the Polar Plunge. Some of these activities must be booked prior to departure and incur an additional cost.
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What educational opportunities are available during the tour?
The tour offers informational presentations by onboard polar experts on topics such as local wildlife, history, glaciology, and geology. There are also workshops and presentations during the sea days to prepare you for the wildlife and landscapes you will encounter.
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What is the significance of Grytviken on this tour?
Grytviken is one of the first whaling stations established in sub-Antarctic waters and is the site of the grave of Sir Ernest Shackleton, one of the most famous Antarctic explorers. It holds historical significance and is one of the key sites visited on the tour.
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What is the Drake Passage and what can I expect during this part of the tour?
The Drake Passage is a body of water between South America's Cape Horn and the South Shetland Islands of Antarctica. It is known for its challenging sea conditions. During this part of the tour, you can spend time on deck watching for seabirds and whales, enjoy presentations by the expedition team, or relax and reminisce about your experiences. ...more ...less
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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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1 Select your preferred date
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
South Georgia and Antarctic Peninsula: Penguin Safari
18 Days Starting and ending in Ushuaia, Argentina
Visiting: Ushuaia, South Georgia, At Sea, Antarctica, Antarctic Peninsula, Drake Passage
Tour operator:
Tour code:
GQMP
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 138
Age range:
8-99
