Chilean Fjords and Falklands Adventure - Buenos Aires Roundtrip

Although its nickname the "End of the World" - derived from its location along the southernmost tip of South America among the Tierra del Fuego archipelago - Ushuaia is far from the end of any adventure. Where the Andes meet the Beagle Channel and the snow-capped Martial Mountains sit behind a sprawling city of colourful buildings, lies a lively town ready and waiting to take you on the thrill ride of a lifetime. Scenes like Parque Yatana give you the chance to immerse yourself in the rich, indigenous culture.

Amid the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Alberto de Agostini National Park sits the enchanting blue ice shelf of Garibaldi Glacier. Famous for its mesmerizing colour, it’s a life-changing sight that will inspire a sense of awe and wonder in you. Navigating through the Garibaldi fjord, you witness skyscraping glaciers that speaks to the explorer spirit within as you gain a greater appreciation for your explorations.

One of the islands of the Strait of Magellan, Magdalena Island is occupied year-round by a small force of park rangers, inviting explorers to stop and visit its rugged grounds. Aside from the park rangers the only other locals you’ll meet are the Magellanic penguins that call the island home. Magdalena Island is the largest colony of these penguins in all of Chile.

Spend the day on the high seas pampering yourself at the spa or enjoying some time on deck. Mingle with your fellow explorers and swap stories of your exploits, making plans for new ones together once you get to shore

Sitting at the entrance of the Beagle Channel and considered part of Tierra del Fuego, Isla de los Estados is a remote stop only accessible by boat. Rugged landscapes, snow-covered peaks, dense low forests, glimmering lakes and deepwater fjords create a stunning scene of an untouched environment that makes it clear why the island has been designated an ecological reserve. The abundant wildlife that calls it home includes Magellanic penguins, sea lions, seals and orcas. Look to the skies for a variety of seabirds, including cormorants, as they dive toward the water on the hunt for fish. Isla de los Estados holds a rich history that is on display at Estancia Harberton, a National Historical Monument showcasing the connection between early European settlers and the local indigenous community. It’s also the setting of Jules Verene’s novel, Lighthouse at the End of the World, giving it an aura of adventure.

Among the seaside cliffs of Settlement Rookery, black-browed albatrosses, king cormorants and rockhopper penguins make their homes. From peregrine falcons to skuas to thin-billed prions, the island is the breeding ground for more than 40 species of birds. Around the island, sea lions and fur seals can be found aplenty. Swimming in the inshore waters you can find Peale’s dolphins as they breed. Sweeping scenes of tussock, cinnamon and blue couch grass create expansive landscapes that inspire a sense of wonder.

Home to various nesting species of albatross, West Point Island, on the northwest tip of the Falklands, was once known as Albatross Island. A rugged promontory known as "The Devil’s Nose" offers breathtaking views of sandstone cliffs, tussac grass and black-browed albatrosses and rockhopper penguins. Aside from incredible seabirds, West Point is also home to whales, fur seals, dolphins and sea lions. Neighbouring Carcass Island beckons with the possibility of a tea-and-cake welcome at a farmhouse amid the stunning scenes. With a terrain that varies from rocky paths to lush stretches of grass and plenty of wildlife to observe, West Point Island is a destination made for the explorer spirit.

Although small, Port Stanley contains a big personality. Its signature landmark, the famous whale bone arch, speaks volumes about this eccentric and rarely visited destination. The colourful, small town lies on the Falkland Islands, a hot spot and haven for watching Magellanic penguins. The Malvinas call to every adventurer with an abundance of pubs, eateries and historic attractions to explore. Visit the Historic Dockyard Museum, a one-stop site to learn about life in the camp, Antarctic connections and the 1982 war with Argentina.

Punta del Este holds some of the finest beaches on the coast that call to you to play, sunbathe, or splash in the azure Atlantic Ocean. Playa Brava and Playa Mansa, “wild beach” and “tame beach,” respectively, perfectly depict the natural diversity along Uruguay’s coast. From rowdy waves to calm waters, it’s up to you to choose what kind of adventure you will have.

With a rich, cosmopolitan look and feel, Punta del Este has been compared to the likes of Cannes and Miami for its lively energy. Skyscrapers line the sandy shores of beaches, inviting travellers to explore the city’s modern treasures.

Among the contemporary architecture lie relics like Casapueblo, a structure that once stood as an art workshop turned museum but now acts as a boutique hotel. It’s the perfect example of how Uruguay incorporates its past into its present.

No one can resist the urge to capture an epic selfie with “La Mano,” the gigantic sculpted hand reaching out of the golden sands at Playa Brava. The sculpted fingers reaching toward blue skies give the impression of a sleeping giant ready and waiting to wake up and live life. Snap a photo at sunset for a positively beautiful shot that cannot compare.

Uruguay’s reputation for the art of cooking meat makes it a top choice for foodie travellers, and Punta del Este is no different. It’s seaside location also makes it a number one pick for fresh seafood meals that will leave explorers hungry for more. A rich mix of flavours in the city’s local fare makes it an adventure for the taste buds as well.

Few cities in South America share the ambiance and lifestyle that make Buenos Aires so endearing. From the Plaza de Mayo to the milongas along San Telmo’s cobbled streets, Buenos Aires is rife with historical and cultural sites for the curious mind.

The cosmopolitan capital of Argentina lies on the western shore of the Río de la Plata estuary. The combination of modern skyscrapers and colonial structures blends the country’s past and present in a way that calls out to the adventurer with a thirst for knowledge.

In the Plaza de Mayo you find a dotting of tropical palm trees amid old streets and buildings. The plaza holds much history as the site of the city’s foundation in 1580, the backdrop for the revolution of independence, and the scene of the latest political rallies.

At the heart of this historical site lies Casa Rosada, the Argentinian equivalent of the White House, but pink. It’s more than a novelty sight. It’s a symbol of the executive branch of government that leads the republic. Casa Rosada is best known as the location where famous first lady Evita Peron addressed the crowds.

A trip to Buenos Aires must include a visit to Recoleta Cemetery, the resting grounds of the powerful, rich, and famous. Stone paths lined with extravagant grave markers and aboveground tombs make it a celebration of the legacies that live on long after one is gone. Dive deep into Argentinian culture by joining an asado, a barbecue. As you indulge in the rich flavours of Argentinian steak and Malbec, you will come to understand and appreciate the culture’s finer points.