Chile/Antarctica

Mission to Antarctica: Fly to an Icy World of Discovery

Program No. 22058RJ

Enjoy a rare flight over the Drake Passage to board an expedition ship, discovering the gleaming fjords, unique wildlife, pristine waters and legendary explorations of Antarctica.

Wishlist

Start

Mission to Antarctica: Fly to an Icy World of Discovery

Adventure Afloat Study Cruise Expedition

Enroll with Confidence

We want your Road Scholar learning adventure to be something to look forward to—not worry about. Learn more

Protecting the Environment

We offset a portion of the emissions created by your travel. Learn more

Plan ahead.

What kind of weather can you expect? Take a look!

There are no dates available.

Enter your email address and we will contact you as soon as dates are available.

Notify me

Deposit, Transfer & Cancellation Policy

Program Terms & Conditions

Mission to Antarctica: Fly to an Icy World of Discovery

Program No. 22058RJ Deposit at Enrollment: 3,000 Final payment due: 130 days before departure date

Transfer & Cancellation Policy

Note: These fees apply to at least one date of this program, but may vary by date.

If you transfer or cancel:

less than 131 days prior to program start date

Transfer Fee: 100 % of order total

Cancel Fee: 100 % of order total

up to 131 days prior to program start date

Transfer Fee: $3000.00

Cancel Fee: $3000.00

If you transfer or cancel:	Transfer Fee:	Cancel Fee:
less than 131 days prior to program start date	100 % of order total	100 % of order total
up to 131 days prior to program start date	$3000.00	$3000.00

COVID-19 Vaccination Policy

For the greatest peace of mind and protection, we require all Road Scholar participants to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, including having received all recommended boosters if eligible.

Road Scholar Program Terms and Conditions

How to Enroll in a Program

Call Us or Enroll Online To enroll

Please call us toll free at (877) 426-8056, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. ET. You may also enroll online at www.roadscholar.org. To reserve space on a program, Road Scholar requires a deposit followed by final payment.

Road Scholar is Not-For-Profit

Road Scholar is a not-for-profit 501 (c)(3) organization that incurs over $5 million annually on credit card fees. Please help us reduce this cost by paying for your program with a check. Please consider our paperless check option when paying on the phone or over the Internet. Our Advisors are happy to explain this payment option to you.

Tax-Deductible Donations

As a not-for-profit organization, we appreciate and rely on charitable donations to help us develop and maintain high-quality educational programs with exceptional value. Donations from U.S. citizens are tax-deductible as provided by law. As Road Scholar is not a registered charity in Canada, donations are not tax deductible for Canadian citizens.

Financial Assistance

Road Scholar offers two kinds of assistance: Scholarships, for those with desire but not the financial means to participate in our U.S.- or Canada-based learning adventures; and Caregiver Grants, designed to provide a unique respite opportunity for unpaid family caregivers to participate in a U.S.- or Canada-based Road Scholar program. Visit www.roadscholar.org/about/financial-assistance/scholarships, email us at scholarships@roadscholar.org, or call us toll free at (877) 426-8056.

General Program Information

Activity Level Ratings

Each Road Scholar program is assigned an Activity Level rating, ranging from Easy Going to Challenging, which are noted on program webpages. Try our Advanced Search tool to find programs that match your activity level. If you have special needs, or need a little extra help in finding the right program for your level of fitness and ambition, please call us and we’ll work to find options for you.

Disabilities and Special Needs

Road Scholar is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to participants with special needs and disabilities. If you have special needs requiring accommodation, please communicate them to Road Scholar at the time of enrollment. We will discuss your request with you and make every effort to accommodate you.

Service Learning

Our Service Learning programs bring participants together to work as a team to serve worthy projects. Road Scholar and sponsoring service institutions are not-for-profit organizations and are tax-exempt under Section 501 (c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The program price may qualify as a tax-deductible gift. However, since individual circumstances vary, we suggest participants contact their tax advisors.

Included Emergency Assistance and Medical Evacuation Insurance

Road Scholar’s continued commitment to our participants and their well-being is exemplified in our Road Scholar Assurance Plan. Whether participating on a program in the United States or on one of our programs overseas, every Road Scholar participant receives coverage under the Road Scholar Assurance Plan. This plan is purchased by Road Scholar on behalf of every participant. The plan provides 24-hour assistance in the event of an emergency during your program and insurance for emergency medical evacuation. This plan includes insurance benefits underwritten by Arch Insurance Company and emergency assistance services provided by LiveTravel Assist. To learn more about this plan, including its terms, conditions, limits, and exclusions, and to view and download a certificate of insurance, please visit: www.roadscholar.org/about/included-insurance/

Travel Health

In addition to maintaining necessary vaccinations, including seasonal influenza vaccination, Road Scholar recommends all participants consult with their physician, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the World Health Organization (WHO) and the U.S. Department of State regarding their health condition and any recommendations specific to the destinations they will visit or transit well before departure. While Road Scholar does its best to provide pertinent information regarding international health requirements and travel health precautions for travel abroad, please remember we are not health experts and can only share with you the recommendations made by the CDC and the US Department of State. It It is therefore your responsibility to consult with your physician and/or contact the CDC for health information specific to your travel destination. Your physician will be able to assess your overall health and fitness, provide information and guidance on health risks you may encounter while traveling, medication you may need to take, and other precautions for the prevention of injury and illness during your program.

Here is guidance from the Centers for Disease Control on how to avoid contracting and spreading an illness.

Only travel if you are healthy. Stay home if you are sick, displaying any symptoms of potential sickness.
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

For those looking for additional resources on this topic, we recommend trusted sources such as your physician, the US Department of State, CDC, and WHO.

U.S. Department of State: www.travel.state.gov
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): www.cdc.gov/travel
World Health Organization (WHO): www.who.int/

Your health and safety are of the utmost importance to us. To learn more about Road Scholar’s commitment to our participants’ well-being and the steps you can take to keep yourself healthy when traveling, please visit www.roadscholar.org/practical-information/general-health-safety/

Please also be sure to review our Travel Updates webpage for the latest travel information, steps we are taking to keep your program experience as safe as possible, as well as helpful information about how to prepare for your upcoming program and what to expect once you're there. www.roadscholar.org/practical-information/travel-updates/

Domestic Travel Arrangements

Programs in the United States and Canada require independent arrivals and departures unless otherwise stated, meaning that you must make your own travel arrangements to and from the program site. If you are flying to your program, you will be responsible for getting yourself from the airport to the starting location of your program and returning to the airport at the end. Please keep in mind that many airlines assess penalties if you need to change or cancel your ticket— up to 100 percent of the ticket price in certain cases — for which you will be responsible. Please also be aware that Road Scholar may occasionally have to alter a program in a way that affects flight schedules, and you will be responsible for changing your flight arrangements and paying applicable fees. For the greatest protection, we recommend waiting until 60 days prior to your program in the United States or Canada to purchase airfare.

International Travel Arrangements

Road Scholar Can Help Arrange Your International Airfare

Almost all of our international programs can be purchased with airfare arranged by Road Scholar. We have negotiated special international rates with major airlines. A list of departure cities can be found by visiting our website or calling to speak with one of our experienced Advisors. As an added benefit, guaranteed airport transfers on the program’s published start and end date are included with your international air travel when arranged through Road Scholar. If your preferred airport is not listed, or you would like to travel on a different day, travel in premium or business class, specify the airline or routing, or travel independently before or after our program, we are happy to customize and create a personalized air travel itinerary to meet your needs. Select the “Custom Flight Arrangements” option and then the airport you want, or discuss your flight preferences with one of our expert air Travel Advisors.

Arranging Your Own International Airfare

If you choose to make your own international air travel arrangements, you will be responsible for getting yourself from the airport to the starting location of your program and returning to the airport at the end. Please keep in mind that many airlines assess penalties if you need to change or cancel your ticket— up to 100 percent of the ticket price in certain cases — for which you will be responsible. Please also be aware that Road Scholar may occasionally have to alter a program in a way that affects flight schedules, and you will be responsible for changing your flight arrangements and paying applicable fees. For the greatest protection, we recommend waiting until 90 days prior to your International program to purchase airfare,

Road Scholar Optional Trip Protection with “Cancel for Any Reason” Coverage

The optional Road Scholar Trip Protection Plan helps protect your investment if you must cancel or interrupt your program for specified, covered reasons, such as illness or injury to you, your traveling companion or an immediate family member of you or your traveling companion. Plus, if you need to cancel your program for any reason not covered by insurance, you will receive a credit good for future travel with Road Scholar for the full amount of the Road Scholar cancellation fee. The plan also provides benefits if you are delayed getting to or returning home from your program and protects your investment should you have an emergency during your program that causes you to miss program days or return home earlier than expected. Your airfare, whether purchased through Road Scholar or independently, is covered at no additional cost — an exceptional benefit and value offered exclusively to Road Scholar participants. You will receive information about this optional travel insurance plan when you enroll in a program. To learn more about this plan, including its terms, conditions, limits, and exclusions, and to view and download a certificate of insurance, please visit: www.roadscholar.org/about/protection-plan.

Additional Program Information

Our goal is to make sure our participants have the most enjoyable and rewarding program experience possible. Whether you are considering one of Road Scholar’s many educational adventures or are currently enrolled in a program, we highly recommend you review the additional program information available in the Practical Information section on our website. The section includes a wide range of topics and information -- everything from how to choose the perfect program to traveling solo to insurance. Please visit www.roadscholar.org/practical-information, or call us if you have specific questions. After you enroll in a program, please be sure to carefully read all pre-program communications and your Program preparatory materials, as they provide important information about how to prepare for your upcoming program and what to expect once you're there.

Program Policies

Deposit, Transfer and Cancellation Policy

Road Scholar requires deposits for all its programs, and charges fees if you transfer or cancel your enrollment. Deposits and fees vary between programs. Please refer to the Deposit, Transfer & Cancellation Policy on program webpages for specific deposit amounts, and transfer and cancellation fee schedules.

About Program Details and Itineraries

We make every effort to operate our programs as advertised. The information on our website is updated regularly, and reflects the most up to date information. We are committed to providing participants with final program details no later than three weeks before the start of land programs within the United States, four weeks for programs International and Afloat programs. and one week for online programs. However, itineraries or other aspects of a program may change due to situations beyond the control. If this happens we will do our best to notify you of the change prior to arriving on your program. We ask you to pack a little extra patience and flexibility, just in case there are last-minute changes to your program.

If Road Scholar Cancels or Interrupts a Program

Road Scholar reserves the right to cancel programs prior to departure, terminate a program early, and to take action as needed on an individual or group basis when, in Road Scholar’s opinion, the health, safety or well-being of participants requires such action. Additionally, due to low enrollment or other unforeseen circumstances, Road Scholar must occasionally cancel or change the dates of a program. When that occurs we will notify you as far in advance as possible and will assist you in transferring your enrollment to another program or refunding your full Road Scholar program payment. If you have made transportation arrangements, such as an airline ticket purchase, Road Scholar will give you a credit good for future travel with Road Scholar to help cover the cost of transferring your travel arrangements for use on a replacement program. The maximum value of the credit will be $300 and documentation of your paid fees is required before issuance of the credit.

Accuracy of Information

While every effort is made to provide accurate information on our website and in our catalogs, Road Scholar is not responsible for typographical errors, inaccuracies or omissions that may relate to program descriptions, pricing, and availability. Road Scholar reserves the right to correct any errors, inaccuracies or omissions that may appear in our publications, and to change or update information at any time without prior notice. If you discover an error on our website or catalog, please let us know.

Program Pricing

As a not-for-profit organization, we are dedicated to providing exceptional educational opportunities at a remarkable value. We do everything in our power to ensure that the published program price is the price you pay. On occasion, costs we can’t anticipate and that are beyond our control arise and may be passed along to you. If this occurs, we will let you know as soon as possible.

Terms and Conditions

Program Selection
We want every participant to have a safe, enjoyable and rewarding program experience. The travel and activities of Road Scholar programs require participants to be in good general health and capable of performing all program activities as described by the program description and its corresponding Activity Level. As a group travel experience, participants must be capable of caring for themselves during the program and agree not to impede the progress of the program or interfere with the enjoyment of other participants. Participants are required to disclose known medical and physical conditions that may interfere with their safety and well being or the safety and well being of others during this program. Road Scholar may limit or terminate the participation in the program at the participant’s expense and without refund any participants who fail to disclose all medical information or do not honestly assess their physical capabilities in advance. With this information in mind, carefully consider the travel and program demands as described on the Road Scholar website, and consult with your physician about your travel plans. If after enrolling you have second thoughts about the program you chose, please call us and we will be happy to assist you in finding a program better suited to your abilities.

Responsibility

Road Scholar’s responsibility is limited. Road Scholar organizes, promotes, and sells educational programs consisting of certain travel services, including land, air, and water transportation, excursions, and cruise/barge/hotel accommodations that Road Scholar purchases or reserves from various suppliers (collectively, “Suppliers”). Road Scholar neither owns nor operates any of these Suppliers; they are independent contractors and are not Road Scholar’s agents. Therefore, Road Scholar is not responsible for any negligent or willful act or failure to act of any Supplier or any other third party. You agree that you will look to such Suppliers, and not to Road Scholar or its agents, for any accident, injury, property damage, or personal loss you may suffer. Without limitation, Road Scholar is not responsible for any injury, loss, or damage to person or property, death, delay, or inconvenience in connection with the provision of, or failure to provide, any goods or services occasioned by or resulting from — but not limited to — acts of God or force majeure, acts of war or civil unrest, insurrection or revolt, strikes or other labor activities, criminal or terrorist activities of any kind, mechanical or other failure of airplanes or other means of transportation, or the failure of any transportation mechanism to arrive or depart on time, or for any other cause beyond the direct control of Road Scholar.

Safety & Risks

Certain risks — from natural disasters to accidents, outbreaks of illness, crime, insect-borne and other infectious diseases, environmental risks to health, terrorism and other unforeseen events — are inherent in travel. While such occurrences are beyond our control, we make substantial efforts to be prepared for such possibilities. Participants are encouraged to review the safety and travel information provided by the U.S. Department of State and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to learn about current security issues, travel advisories and warnings, recent embassy notices, country-specific health information, health risks you may encounter while traveling, precautions for the prevention of illness, disease and general health issues during your program and other helpful destination-specific information. By enrolling in a program, you agree to assume responsibility for your own health, safety, and welfare, and acknowledge that Road Scholar cannot guarantee your safety or health at any time.

Admission & Participation Policy

The granting or denial of admission to a program is within the sole discretion of Road Scholar. Road Scholar reserves the right to revoke admission or terminate or limit participation at any time if Road Scholar reasonably determines a participant’s condition, behavior or actions are inappropriate or disruptive, or adversely affect the participant’s health or safety, or the health, safety or enjoyment of other participants. Road Scholar reserves the right to take action as needed on an individual or group basis when, in Road Scholar’s sole opinion, the health, safety or well-being of participants requires such action.

Photography and Video

Road Scholar reserves the right to take photographs, videos or audio/visual recordings during the operation of any program or part thereof and to use them, whether taken by a representative of Road Scholar or by other participants, for promotional purposes. By enrolling in a Road Scholar program, participants agree to allow their images or recordings to be used for such purposes. Participants who prefer that their images or recordings not be used are asked to identify themselves to program staff and the photographer at the commencement of their program. For Road Scholar online programs, all audio or video recordings, content and materials are the property of Road Scholar. Participants are prohibited from taking screen captures, or making, copying or distributing all or part of any audio or video recordings of online programs.

Online Program Terms

If you enroll in one of Road Scholar’s online programs, you are responsible for the integrity of the device on which you will attend this online program, as well as your own high-speed internet connection. Road Scholar is not responsible for outages or interruptions in internet service. Road Scholar cannot and will not provide recordings, content or materials, or provide reimbursement of any kind, for missed portion(s) of your online program, regardless of the reason.

Seller of Travel Information

Road Scholar’s state of Washington Seller of Travel Reg. No. 602244658. CST #2068427-40. Florida Seller of Travel Reg. No. ST35594.

Modifications to Terms and Conditions

Road Scholar reserves the right at any time to update, change, modify, or revise these Terms and Conditions at any time. Any changes will become effective upon posting the changes, modifications or revisions to the Terms and Conditions. Accordingly, participants should review Road Scholar’s Terms and Conditions regularly prior to travel in order to ensure they are aware of any changes.

© 2023 Elderhostel. All rights reserved. The Road Scholar service marks, logos, website address and other marks are owned by Elderhostel, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to inspiring adults to learn, discover and travel.

Optional Trip Protection Plan

12 days

11 nights

25 meals

9B 8L 8D

Flights depart North America

In Flight

Flights arrive in Santiago de Chile

Santiago

Fly to Punta Arenas

Punta Arenas

Punta Arenas - Fly to Antarctica

At Sea - Antarctica

At Sea - Antarctica

At Sea - Antarctica

At Sea - Antarctica

At Sea - Antarctica

Antarctica / Fly to Punta Arenas

Punta Arenas

Field trip to a local Estancia

Punta Arenas

Punta Arenas - Departures

In Flight

Flights return to North America

In Flight

View Full Itinerary

At a Glance

Discover the otherworldly, frozen realm of Antarctica on a study cruise that flies over the Drake Passage rather than sailing it. Crossing the Drake Passage takes more than two days in each direction, a voyage often made unpleasant by rough seas. Fly over the passage instead on a plane from Chile to an Antarctic base, where you meet the ship and immediately get started exploring.

Best of all, you’ll…

Make the most of your journey to Antarctica by flying over the Drake Passage in just two hours rather than spending four days at sea sailing across it.
Marvel at fjords, icebergs and wildlife like whales, seals and penguins from hand-picked landing sites by Zodiac boat and from aboard your ice-strengthened vessel.
Spend two nights in Punta Arenas, a launching point of Antarctic expeditions located on the Straight of Magellan.

General Notes

Flights to Antarctica can be delayed due to weather conditions. There is a contingency plan in place in the event of a multi-day delay that will be sent with your first mailing.

Suggested Reading List (20 books)

Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop

You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.

Search for a Title

Endurance, Shackleton's Incredible Voyage

by Alfred Lansing

Lansing's gripping day-by-day story of Shackleton's legendary perseverance is essential reading for any Antarctic traveler. This 100th anniversary edition is outfitted with maps, an expanded selection of Frank Hurley's photographs and an introduction by Nathaniel Philbrick.

The Antarctic Book of Cooking and Cleaning, A Polar Journey

by Carol Devine, Wendy Trusler

An insightful miscellany from a 55-person environmental cleanup expedition in Bellingshausen, Antarctica. The authors’ travelogue is supplemented by 42 recipes, anecdotes, journal entries, vignettes and captivating photography.

Penguins of the World

by Wayne Lynch

Lynch weaves delightful tales of penguins, their habitats and habits, with hundreds of glorious full-color photographs.

End of the Earth, Voyaging to Antarctica

by Peter Matthiessen

In this fine book, the result of two voyages, Matthiessen captures the magic of polar landscapes and wildlife, along with the camaraderie of a ship-based polar expedition.

The Last Place on Earth, Scott and Amundsen's Race to the South Pole

by Roland Huntford

Igniting huge controversy when it first appeared, Huntford's rousing dual biography contrasts Amundsen's well-planned campaign to achieve the Pole with Scott's ill-fated quest.

Antarctica, A Call to Action

by Sebastian Copeland

Copeland's collection of striking photographs includes a three-page list of sensible suggestions to protect the planet.

Where the Earth Ends, A Journey Beyond Patagonia

by John Harrison

A spirited tale of adventures in the southern tip of South America, south from the Pampas and Patagonia to Punta Arenas, the Beagle Channel, Ushuaia -- and Antarctica.

Antarctic Wildlife

by James Lowen

Produced by a shipboard naturalist, this handy identification guide focuses on the Beagle Channel, Drake and Peninsula regions.

The Oceanites Site Guide to the Antarctic Peninsula

by Ron Naveen

The guide, which supports the Antarctic Site Inventory Project, covers 40 prime visitor sites in detail. It also includes some of the best photography we've seen. Second edition.

The Last Viking, The Life of Roald Amundsen

by Stephen R. Bown

Bown plumbs newspaper archives, Amundsen's own words and contemporary accounts for this tale of the unusual and hugely accomplished explorer, first to the South Pole, first across both the Northeast and Northwest passages and a pioneer of polar aviation.

The Crystal Desert

by David Campbell

A biologist with the heart of a poet, Campbell focuses on the fossils, glaciers and wildlife of the Antarctic Peninsula in these vivid essays.

Melting Away, Images of the Arctic and Antarctic

by Camille Seaman

In her masterful series of 75 portraits and essays, Camille Seaman shows how climate change has wreaked havoc on both the North and South Poles.

Southern Light, Images from Antarctica

by David Neilson (Photographer)

Photographer David Neilson has turned his six journeys to the ice over the last 20 years, often with the Australian Antarctic Program (and sometimes lugging a 30-pound large format camera), into a coffee-table tribute to the continent and its wildlife. Includes 130 color and 100 rich black-and-white oversized photographs, gate-folds and double-page spreads that portray the drama and beauty of the Antarctic.

Antarctica, A Guide to the Wildlife

by Tony Soper

Designed for the field, this compact handbook features all the species of birds, seals and whales the traveler is likely to encounter on an Antarctic voyage.

Antarctic Explorer Map

by Ocean Explorer

A full-color map of the Antarctic Peninsula, including Tierra del Fuego, the Falklands and South Georgia, at a scale of 1:2,750,000. With a map of the Antarctic continent on the reverse.

1912, The Year the World Discovered Antarctica

by Chris Turney

Turney looks at the great leap forward in Antarctic science that was made 100 years ago with the expeditions of not just Scott and Amundsen but also those of Mawson, Filchner and Shirase. A brisk and engaging history of science and exploration in the Antarctic. An Australian scientist himself, Turney sees Mawson as the scientific hero of the age.

Alone in Antarctica, The First Woman to Ski Solo Across the Southern Ice

by Felicity Aston

In this inspirational memoir, Felicity Aston describes her pioneering journey -- skiing across the whole of Antarctica -- while meditating on human vulnerability, struggle and the experience of solitude in the Information Age.

The Heart of the Great Alone: Scott, Shackleton and Antarctic Photography

by Sophie Gordon, David Hempleman-Adams, Emma Stuart

Here in one handsome book are hundreds of haunting photographs by Herbert George Ponting and Frank Hurley, drawn from the albums they created during the two most famous Antarctic explorations. The stunning images are accompanied by lively essays, maps, paintings and other ephemera from the Royal Collection.

Lonely Planet Antarctica

by Lonely Planet

Alexis Averbuck, author of the new edition of this compact and surprisingly handy guide, expands coverage of Ushuaia, the Falklands and South Georgia. With a wildlife guide and contributions from 26 Antarctic experts on the history, geology, wildlife and future of Antarctica.

Penguins, The Ultimate Guide

by Tui De Roy

Featuring more than 400 photographs, this is the traveler's ultimate guide to the world's 18 species of penguins. Includes scientific discussions on penguin conservation, profiles, facts and tips on where to see them in Antarctica.

Start Enrolling

Print All

Map details are not available for this location.

View Map

Expand All

12 days

11 nights

25 meals

9 B 8 L 8 D

DAY

Flights depart North America

In Flight

DAY

Flights arrive in Santiago de Chile

Santiago

DoubleTree by Hilton Santiago

Activity note: You will arrive in Santiago de Chile. Follow Immigration and Custom procedure. Please note that you will have to take a PCR test before leaving the Airport. You will be transferred to the hotel to wait for the result of the test in isolation. Road Scholar Staff will be at the airport to assist you.

Afternoon: After checking in to the hotel and getting your room, take some time to freshen up and relax to wait for the results of your PCR test taken at arrival. Until you do not get the negative result you are not allowed to leave your room. Whatever needs you might have, please contact to your Group Leader by phone. She is at the hotel. Orientation: The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding.

Dinner: Welcome dinner.

Evening: At leisure.

DAY

Fly to Punta Arenas

Punta Arenas

B,L,D

Cabo de Hornos Hotel

Activity note: Transfer to the Airport - 3.5 hs non stop flight

Breakfast: Light breakfast (take away) to be picked up at the reception after check out. .

Morning: Transfer to the Airport. Arrival to Punta Arenas after 3.5 hs of flying. We will be transferred to the Expedition Hotel.

Lunch: Light Lunch.

Afternoon: Briefing with the expedition staff to provide important information about your upcoming voyage and review the essential guidelines for your Antarctic voyage.

Dinner: Enjoy a welcome dinner to meet your Antarctica expedition staff and other Antarctica travelers. The following voyage to Antarctica aboard the Ocean Nova will also include non-Road Scholar passengers from around the world.

Evening: At leisure.

DAY

Punta Arenas - Fly to Antarctica

At Sea - Antarctica

B,L,D

Magellan Explorer

Activity note: The distance between the airfield and the shoreline is a downhill 15-20 minute (1.5 mile) easy walk. Staff is available to drive those passengers who prefer not to walk. The transfer to the ship is done by Zodiac boat. Mobility is essential for getting on and off the ship.

Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel

Morning: Morning at leisure as you prepare for your flight to Antarctica. Transfer to the airport. Your Antarctic adventure begins with a two-hour flight from Punta Arenas to King George Island, in the South Shetland Islands.

Lunch: Lunch en route

Afternoon: Arrive in Antarctica! As you exit the airplane, the clear Antarctic air fills your lungs for the first time. Explore the surrounding Chile's Frei Station and Russia's Bellingshausen station, before boarding a Zodiac to embark your vessel. At Frei Base, facilities are quite essential - do not expect an air and a sea terminal as you may find in most cities of the world. The airfield, called Aerodromo Teniente Marsh, is located in the heights of Frei Base. At a distance of about 3km (1.5miles) downhill, close to the horeline of Fildes Bay, passengers can take advantage of transit facilities. Here hot drinks are available, as well as toilets. The "Ocean Nova" is anchored in the middle of Fildes Bay. Since at Frei Station there are no docking facilities, the transfer of passengers and their luggage between the coast and the vessel is performed by Zodiac Boats. Staff will take care of transporting participant luggage on board the aircraft and the ship. Participants are required to take care only of their personal carry on luggage. At Frei Base you will be provided with a lightweight life jacket that must be worn at all times in the Zodiac while cruising.

Dinner: Dinner on board the MV Ocean Nova

DAY

Antarctica

At Sea - Antarctica

B,L,D

Magellan Explorer

Activity note: Getting in/out of Zodiac boats. Walking on uneven, snow covered, and sometimes icy conditions. Landings are all dependent on weather conditions

Breakfast: Breakfast on board the ship.

Morning: No journey to Antarctica is the same, and flexibility is the key to a successful voyage. The on board Expedition Team sets the voyage route to take advantage of the ever-changing opportunities provided by nature, crafting unique and extraordinary experience each time. While the exact itinerary changes with each expedition, you will explore several spots that offer the best possible overview of the varied Antarctic environment. Your voyage may include visits to sites such as Paulet Island, Hope Bay, Port Lockroy, Petermann Island, Paradise Bay, Deception Island, the Lemaire Channel or many other magnificent places.

Lunch: Lunch on board the ship.

Afternoon: On board the ship, attend an engaging program of lectures and presentations, and enjoy spectacular vistas from the glass-enclosed lounge while sharing your daily adventures with fellow Road Scholar participants and ship guests.

Dinner: Dinner on board the ship.

DAY

Antarctica

At Sea - Antarctica

B,L,D

Magellan Explorer

Activity note: Getting in/out of Zodiac boats. Walking on uneven, snow covered, and sometimes icy conditions. Landings are all dependent on weather conditions

Breakfast: Breakfast on board the ship

Morning: Cruise between the South Shetland Islands and the western coast of the Antarctic Peninsula, sailing along ice-filled fjords and among spectacular icebergs, while enjoying the compnay of sea birds, penguins, seals and whales. Each day, disembark by Zodiac and explore the landscape together with expert polar guides.

Lunch: Lunch on board the ship.

Dinner: Dinner on board the ship.

DAY

Antarctica

At Sea - Antarctica

B,L,D

Magellan Explorer

Activity note: Getting in/out of Zodiac boats. Walking on uneven, snow covered, and sometimes icy conditions. Landings are all dependent on weather conditions

Breakfast: Breakfast on board the ship.

Lunch: Lunch on board the ship.

Dinner: Dinner on board the ship.

DAY

Antarctica

At Sea - Antarctica

B,L,D

Magellan Explorer

Activity note: Getting in/out of Zodiac boats. Walking on uneven, snow covered, and sometimes icy conditions. Landings are all dependent on weather conditions

Breakfast: Breakfast on board the ship.

Lunch: Lunch on board the ship.

Dinner: Dinner on board the ship.

DAY

Antarctica / Fly to Punta Arenas

Punta Arenas

B,L,D

Cabo de Hornos Hotel

Activity note: The distance between the shoreline and the airfield is an uphill 15-20 minute (1.5 mile) easy walk. Staff is available to drive those passengers who prefer not to walk. The transfer to the shore is done by Zodiac boat.

Breakfast: Breakfast on board the ship.

Morning: Return to King George Island and bid farewell to Antarctica before boarding the flight back to Punta Arenas.

Lunch: served on the plane.

Afternoon: Afternoon at leisure.

Dinner: Farewell dinner at the hotel.

DAY

Field trip to a local Estancia

Punta Arenas

B,L

Cabo de Hornos Hotel

Activity note: Getting on/off motorcoach; total driving approximately two hours, 100 miles. Walking short distances and standing; unpaved ground at the ranch. Hat and sunblock strongly recommended.

Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel

Morning: Our local expert will take us to a local Sheep Estancia located one hour from the city. On the way, we will learn about local flora and fauna. Upon arrival at the Estancia, the owners will welcome us and walk us through the facilities. We will learn about everything from shearing the sheep to cleaning and processing the wool.

Lunch: Lunch during field trip. We will have a typical lamb BBQ with vegetarian options available. After lunch, we will be go back to the hotel in Punta Arenas.

Afternoon: At leisure to pack for your flight back home.

Dinner: On your own to explore the local cuisine.

DAY

Punta Arenas - Departures

In Flight

Activity note: Hotel check out by 11am. You will have to change planes in Santiago de Chile. Please note that you may have to collect your luggage and check it through to the final destination.

Breakfast: Breakfast at the Hotel.

Morning: This concludes our program. If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!

DAY

Flights return to North America

In Flight

Enroll with Confidence

Protecting the Environment

Please enter a valid email.

You’re on the list! We’ll let you know as soon as a date for this program becomes available.

At a Glance

Best of all, you’ll…

General Notes