Chile is nature on a colossal scale…
Meet a Land of Extremes…preposterously thin and unreasonably long, Chile stretches from the belly of South America to its foot, reaching from the driest desert on earth to vast southern glacial fields. Diverse landscapes unfurl over a 4300km stretch parched dunes, fertile valleys, volcanoes, ancient forests, massive glaciers and fjords. There's wonder in every detail and nature on a symphonic scale. It's mind-boggling to find this great wilderness so intact and pristine some of the most pristine.
La Buena Onda…In Chile, close borders foster backyard intimacy – bookended by the Andes and the Pacific, the country averages just 175km wide. No wonder you start greeting the same faces. Pause and it starts to feel like home. You've landed at the end of the continent, and one thing that stands out at this final frontier is hospitality. Buena onda (good vibes) means putting forth a welcoming attitude. Patagonians share round upon round of maté tea. The ritual of relating and relaxing is so integral to the fabric of local life, it’s hardly noticed. But they do say one thing: stay and let your guard down.
Slow Adventure…In Chile, adventure is what happens on the way to having an adventure. Pedal the chunky gravel of the Carretera Austral and end up sharing a ferry with SUVs and oxcarts or take a wrong turn and find heaven in an anonymous orchard. Serendipity takes over. Plans may be made but try being just as open to experience. Locals never rush. 'Those who hurry waste their time,' is the Patagonian saying that would serve well as a traveller’s mantra.
Wine Culture…Before wine became an export commodity for the luxury set humble casks had their place on every Chilean table and grandparents tended backyard orchards. Now Chile has become a worldwide producer catering to ever more sophisticated palates. Rich reds, crisp whites and floral rosés – there is a varietal that speaks to every mood and occasion. Chileans embrace the concept of la buena mesa. This is not about fancy. Beyond a good meal, its great company, the leisure of overlapping conversations with uncorking, and the gaze that's met at the clink of two glasses. ¡Salud!
Australis takes you on an amazing journey to the “uttermost end of the earth” on modern expedition cruise ships that ply the untamed wonderland at the bottom end of South America. Australis is an expedition cruise company that specializes in exploring the "end of the world" -- the pristine waterways of Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego at the bottom end of South America.
Catering to only around 200 passengers maximum, our ships undertake three-, four- and seven-night itineraries between September and April each year. Our Patagonia cruise tours sail between Punta Arenas (Chile) and Ushuaia (Argentina) along the Strait of Magellan, the Beagle Channel and other legendary passages including many places where few other cruise ships venture.
During 25 years of sailing and travel to Patagonia, we've had the privilege to introduce more than 100,000 travellers to the glaciers, fjords, sub-polar forests and amazing marine and terrestrial wildlife of Patagonia.
In addition to our vacation cruises, we have enhanced the region's visitor experience by funding the museum at Wulaia Bay and the eco-friendly boardwalks at Cape Horn and Ainsworth Bay. We also support scientific efforts by hosting researchers aboard our ships from Magallanes University, the New York-based Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) and the Center for Quaternary Studies of Fuego, Patagonia and the Antarctic (CEQUA).
Fully owned and operated by Chileans, our objective as a company is providing Australis passengers from around the world with an unforgettable cruise experience that includes extraordinary contact with nature, amazing cuisine and the best onboard service in South America.
Stella Australis
The 210-guest Stella Australis is a modern expedition cruise ship equipped with the latest navigation and safety technology. Cruising in Chile's famed Patagonia region, she features a spacious open top deck for admiring the spectacular southern scenery, as well as a gift shop, game room, infirmary and small library.
Three lounges are styled with modern audio-visual equipment for the most engaging naturalist lectures.
Dining Aboard Stella Australis
The expedition programs include welcome and farewell cocktails; breakfast lunch and dinner; open bar during the whole journey; and a cafeteria service. Aboard Stella Australis, enjoy exquisite food and the most famous Chilean wines. The menu includes international food and typical local dishes, alternating a la carte menus and buffets.
Seating is open, with tables seating as low as four people and up to ten, so you can enjoy a more intimate meal or socialize with a larger group.
Activities Aboard Stella Australis
During the cruise learn about the flora, fauna, history, geography, glaciology and ethnography of the legendary Patagonia region, through interesting lectures given by the Stella Australis Expedition Team, which will take place on board (with audio-visual support) as well as on land.
The Stella Australis has an exercise room on the Darwin Deck, which is closed and fully glazed.
During the cruise there are daily land excursions with an average duration of two hours. They consist of walks through trails in the native forests, visits to glaciers and to Cape Horn National Park, including talks on the flora and fauna of the area. Waterproof trekking jackets and trousers are available for purchase on board if required. Rubber boots are provided for use on board free of charge. Groups are formed to embark on zodiac boats, which take you ashore.
Sustainability Aboard Stella Australis
The protection and preservation of nature is a permanent preoccupation of the M/V Stella Australis.
She uses specialized processes to prevent damaging the beautiful spots of the region, such as the separation of oil waste and other contaminating fluids, which are later deposited at port; compacting and deposit of garbage at port; and a sewage and solid waste treatment plant.
Cabins & Deck Plan Aboard Stella Australis
There are 100 Stella Australis cabins across six categories, all with lower beds, a picture window, private bathroom, heating, closet and safe deposit box. While 96 cabins each measure 178 square feet, 4 Superior cabins on the Cabo de Hornos and Tierra del Fuego Decks each measure 220 square feet. Standard double beds aboard Stella Australis measure 5 x 6 feet, and standard twin beds measure 3.5 x 6 feet. Twin beds can be put together upon request.
Category AA
Category AA cabins on the Tierra del Fuego Deck are 178 sq ft each with standard-size twin beds or a double bed & 5’x4.5′ windows.
Beautiful, and intense, Argentina seduces with its streetside tango, wafting grills, fútbol (soccer), gaucho culture and the mighty Andes. It's one formidable cocktail of wanderlust.
City Life …Arriving in Buenos Aires is like jumping aboard a moving train. The modern metropolis whizzes by, alive with street life from busy sidewalk cafes to hush parks carpeted in purple jacaranda blooms in springtime. Stylish porteños (residents of Buenos Aires) savour public life – whether it's sharing mate (a tea-like beverage) on Sunday in the park or gelato under handsome early-20th-century stone facades. There are heaps of bookstores, creative boutiques and gourmet eats.
Natural Wonders …From mighty Iguazú Falls in the subtropical north to the thunderous, crackling advance of the Glacier Perito Moreno in the south, Argentina is home to a vast natural wonderland. Diversity is a big part of it. The country that boasts the Andes’ highest snowbound peaks is also home to rich wetlands, rust-hued desert, deep-blue lakes, lichen-clad Valdivian forests and Patagonia's arid steppes. Wildlife comes in spectacular variety, from penguins and flamingos to capybaras, giant anteaters, whales, guanaco herds and more. In this vast country, stunning sights abound, and big adventure awaits.
Food & Drink …Satisfying that carnal craving for flame-charred steak isn’t hard to do in the land that has perfected the art of grilling. Parrillas (grill houses) are ubiquitous, offering up any cut you can imagine, alongside sausages and grilled vegetables. Thin, bubbly pizzas and homemade pastas also play central roles, thanks to Argentina's proud Italian heritage. But there's more. Buenos Aires fads are fun and fast-changing, bringing gourmet world cuisine to both upscale restaurants and the shady cobblestone neighbourhoods. Grab a table, uncork a bottle of malbec, and the night is yours.
Argentine Culture …Cultural activities abound here. Tango is possibly Argentina’s greatest contribution to the outside world. The steamy dance has been described as ‘making love in the vertical position.’ And what about fútbol (soccer)? Argentines are passionately devoted to this sport and, if you're a fan, chanting and stomping alongside other stadium fanatics should be in your plans. Add a distinctive Argentine take on literature, cinema, music and arts, and you have a rich, edgy culture – part Latin American and part European – that you can’t help but fall in love with.
Peru is as complex as its most intricate and exquisite weavings. Festivals mark ancient rites, the urban vanguard fuels innovation and nature bestows splendid diversity.
All Things Ancient …Visitors flock to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, yet this feted site is just a flash in a 5000-year history of Peruvian settlement. Explore the dusty remnants of Chan Chan, the largest pre-Columbian ruins in all the Americas. Fly over puzzling geoglyphs etched into the arid earth at Nazca. Or venture into the wilds that surround the enduring fortress of Kuélap. Lima’s great museums reveal in full detail the sophistication, skill and passion of these lost civilizations. Visit remote communities and see how old ways live on. Immerse yourself, and you'll leave Peru a little closer to the past.
Pleasure & the Palate …One existential question haunts all Peruvians: what to eat? Ceviche with slivers of fiery chili and corn, slow-simmered stews, velvety Amazonian chocolate – in the capital of Latin American cooking, the choices dazzle. Great geographic and cultural diversity has brought ingredients ranging from highland tubers to tropical jungle fruits to a complex cuisine with Spanish, indigenous, African and Asian influences. The truth is, fusion existed here long before it came with airs and graces. Explore the bounty of food markets. Sample grilled anticuchos (beef skewers) on the street corners and splurge a little on exquisite novoandina (Peruvian nouvelle cuisine).
Oh, Adventure …From downtown Lima to smack-dab in the middle of nowhere, this vast country is a paradise for the active traveller. Giant sand dunes, chiselled peaks and Pacific breaks lie just a few heartbeats away from the capital’s rush-hour traffic, and all the usual suspects – rafting, paragliding, zip-lines and bike trails – are present. Spot scarlet macaws in the Amazon or catch the sunset over ancient ruins. Take this big place in small bites and don't rush. Delays happen. Festivals can swallow you whole for days. And you'll realize: in Peru the adventure usually lies in getting there.
Life is a Carnival …Welcome to a place of mythical beliefs where ancient pageants unwind to the tune of booming brass bands. Peru's rich cultural heritage is never more real and visceral than when you are immersed streetside in the swirling madness of a festival. Deities of old are reincarnated as Christian saints, pilgrims climb mountains in the dead of night and icons are paraded through crowded plazas as once were the mummies of Inca rulers. History is potent here and still pulsing, and there is no better way to experience it.
Internal flights within South America
Airfare on LATAM Airlines Santiago/Punta Arenas-Buenos Aires/Lima/Cuzco/Santiago
Airfare on Aerolineas Ushuaia/Buenos Aires
2 nights’ accommodation @ 4* Hyatt Centric Las Condes Hotel, Santiago
4 night’s aboard Stella Australis (AA cabin) Punta Arenas/Ushuaia
2 night’s accommodation @ 4* NH Crillon Hotel, Buenos Aires
4 night’s accommodation @ 4* Novotel Hotel, Cuzco
Chile - Guided sightseeing tour of Santiago incl: Cable Car to San Cristobal Hill
Chile - Welcome Dinner at Mestizo Restaurant incl: 3-course menu
Argentina - Guided sightseeing tour of Buenos Aires
Argentina - Tango lessons at La Academia (1 hour incl: beverage)
Argentina - Dinner and Tango Show at El Aljibe incl: 3-course Dinner with wine and soft drinks
Peru - Guided half-day sightseeing tour of Sacsayhuaman (Mayan fortress ruins)
Peru - Full Day aboard the luxurious Hiram Bingham Train to Machu Picchu
Peru - Farewell Dinner at a local restaurant – guests’ choice
South America - Arrival meet and greet. Private vehicle transportation. Departure assistance. Pivate English Speaking Guide
Participants are required to check-in at the LATAM Airlines counter at Sydney International Airport at least 3 hours prior to their flight to Santiago (Chile).
Upon arrival into Santiago Airport, guests will be met by our guides in the arrival lounge. After proceeding through customs and passport control your private vehicle awaits to escort you your hotel located in central Santiago.
Due to your long flight, the remainder of the afternoon and evening is at your leisure.
Overnight: Hyatt Centric Las Condes Hotel, Santiago 4*
Buffet breakfast to be served at the hotel.
After breakfast this morning, meet your guide for your sightseeing tour of Santiago.
Your bilingual guide will lead you on a tour highlighting Santiago's most important historical sites, including the downtown area surrounding the Plaza de Armas and the La Moneda Presidential Palace. You will also pass by the Mercado Central, one of Chile's largest fresh seafood markets and stroll by the many bustling stalls to see the tremendous variety available from Chile's bountiful sea.
Visit some of the lesser-known barrios of Santiago including República and Concha y Toro, which were historically privileged neighbourhoods and home to Santiago's high society. There will be time to walk around and take photos of the varied styles of architecture dating back to the 19th and early 20th century. Continuing through the cobblestoned Lastarria neighbourhood, will walk through the Parque Forestal and pass by the Bellas Artes Museum. For a panoramic vista of the city, visit the top of Cerro San Cristobal Hill, 984 feet above the city.
At the completion of your tour, lunch is at your leisure.
Upon completion of your tour, return to your hotel with the remainder of the afternoon at your leisure.
Enjoy your Welcome Dinner this evening at Mestizo…a Santiago must visit for a great meal.
Mestizo…Santiago
Evenings in Santiago don’t get much better than a sunset meal at Mestizo. Located at the south end of Parque Bicentenario, beside the water gardens, a terrace table at this open-air establishment is hot property on a balmy evening, and as evening falls, attentive staff are on hand to offer blankets to ensure the al fresco aspect of the experience remains comfortable.
Serving an expansive menu of modern Chilean plates, Mestizo offers something for every preference, be that a rosé wine-infused clam risotto, lobster tartare on corn toast, or the catch-of-the-day ceviche with a simple lemon dressing. The menu features further ceviche selections, as well as a grill offering. Don’t miss dessert: alongside classic sweet treats, you’ll find Latin-infused delights like airy tres leches cake with a passion fruit sauce, and a goat’s milk volcan de manjar. The wine list is substantial in size and substance – and entirely Latin American.
There’s an almost gluttonous offering of reds ranging from full-bodied cabernet sauvignons and carménères to Mendoza malbecs.
Overnight: Hyatt Centric Las Condes Hotel, Santiago 4*
Buffet breakfast to be served at the hotel.
After breakfast, check-out and transfer to Santiago Airport for your flight south to Punta Arenas, Patagonia.
Upon your arrival into Punta Arenas, meet your local guide for the short transfer into town.
Lunch at leisure prior to a brief orientation tour of Punta Arenas.
Punta Arenas is the capital city of Chilean Patagonia and the departure point for many expeditions. Founded in 1848 at the extreme southern end of the continent, Punta Arenas was a penal colony, later attracted many immigrants from Europe and the Chilean region of Chiloé. We visit the Cerro de la Cruz lookout to see the bright colours of the city roofs, the Strait of Magellan, and the island of Tierra del Fuego on the horizon. We continue to the main city plaza, named after former governor Muñoz Gamero. This plaza has been the heart of the city since the end of the 19th century. Opportunities are here to purchase souvenirs an handicrafts from the region. In the center of the plaza you will see an imposing statue of Ferdinand Magellan, while the buildings facing the plaza reflect the neoclassical style popular with the early magnates of the regional sheep industry. The tour continues to the Salesian Maggiorino Borgatello museum, one of the oldest in Chile. The exhibits include permanent collections related to local flora and fauna, colonial-era artefacts, Antarctica, the ethnography of the region, map collection, local industrial materials, and items from Salesian missions at Dawson Island and Río Grande (Tierra del Fuego).
Late this afternoon we travel to the dock to check-in and board the vessel Stella Australis, your home on this adventure…
After a welcoming toast and introduction of captain and crew, the ship departs for one of the remotest corners of planet Earth. During the night we cross the Strait of Magellan and enter the labyrinth of channels that define the southern extreme of Patagonia. The twinkling lights of Punta Arenas gradually fade into the distance as we enter the Whiteside Canal between Darwin Island and Isla Grande de Tierra del Fuego.
We enjoy a four-course dinner including a blend of continental and Chilean cuisine.
After dinner, our all-inclusive bar features a wide selection of liquors, excellent Chilean wines and local craft beers, as well as our trademark Calafate Sour. Passengers have access to a library with extensive literature on Patagonian flora, fauna and history, as well as board games and other onboard entertainment activities.
Overnight: Aboard Stella Australis ‘AA Cabin’
By dawn the ship is sailing up Admiralty Sound (Seno Almirantazgo), a spectacular offshoot of the Strait of Magellan that stretches nearly halfway across Tierra del Fuego. The snowcapped peaks of Karukinka Natural Park stretch along the north side of the sound, while the south shore is defined by the deep fjords and broad bays of Alberto de Agostini National Park. We go ashore at Ainsworth Bay, which harbors copious bird life and a colony of southern elephant seals which can sometimes be spotted from the Zodiacs. Two guided excursions are available: one is along the edge of a stream, peat bog and beaver habitat to a waterfall-and-moss-covered rock face tucked deep inside a pristine sub-polar forest; the other is a more strenuous hike along the crest of a glacial moraine. Both afford views of Marinelli Glacier and the Darwin Mountains.
One of the most spectacular spots in Patagonia, Ainsworth Bay is a lengthy fjord surrounded by pristine sub-polar forest and crowned by Marinelli Glacier, which flows down from the Darwin Ice Field. Protected within the confines of Alberto de Agostini National Park, the bay provides a habitat for southern elephant seals and many different bird species. Trails lead to streams and waterfalls, moss-covered rock faces, peat bogs, beaver habitats and along the crest of a glacial moraine.
Leaving our Ainsworth Bay tour behind, we sail west along the sound to the Tucker Islets. After lunch, we board the Zodiacs again for a close-up view of the Magellan penguins that inhabit the tiny islands. More than 4,000 penguins use Tucker as a place to nest, give birth and nurture their chicks. Many other bird species also frequent the area including king cormorants, oystercatchers, Chilean skuas, kelp geese, dolphin gulls, eagles and even the occasional Andean condor. In September and April -- when the penguins live elsewhere -- this excursion is replaced by a short walk to a glacier at nearby stunning Brookes Bay.
We enjoy a four-course dinner including a blend of continental and Chilean cuisine.
After dinner, our all-inclusive bar features a wide selection of liquors, excellent Chilean wines and local craft beers, as well as our trademark Calafate Sour.
Overnight: Aboard Stella Australis ‘AA Cabin’
Overnight we sail around the western end of Tierra del Fuego via the very narrow Gabrial Channel, Magdalena Channel and Cockburn Channel. After rounding the remote Brecknock Peninsula, the Australis cruise tacks eastward and enters the Beagle Channel again. By morning we are entering Pia Fjord and boarding the Zodiacs for a Pia Glacier tour. After disembarking we take a short hike to gain a panoramic view of the spectacular glacier, which extends from the mountaintops down to the sea or a longer much more difficult walk up a lateral moraine of the old Pia Glacier.
We will embark on a Pia Glacier travel excursion towards a lookout point offering excellent conditions for observing the mountain range, where this impressive glacier originates and its entire displacement can be seen until it reaches the sea. No one knows for certain how the hulking mass of snow and ice got its feminine moniker, but one theory says it was named for Princess Maria Pia of Savoy (1847-1911), daughter of the Italian king.
Back onboard the ship, we continue east along the Beagle Channel through an area called Glacier Alley. Living up to its name, the passage features a number of impressive tidewater glaciers flowing down from the Darwin Mountains and Darwin Ice Sheet on the north shore. Most of them named after European countries -- Holland, Italy, Germany, Spain and France.
We enjoy a four-course dinner including a blend of continental and Chilean cuisine.
After dinner, our all-inclusive bar features a wide selection of liquors, excellent Chilean wines and local craft beers, as well as our trademark Calafate Sour.
Overnight: Aboard Stella Australis ‘AA Cabin’
During the morning, we cruise across Nassau Bay into the remote archipelago that includes Cape Horn National Park. Weather and sea conditions permitting, we shall go ashore on the windswept island that harbors legendary Cape Horn (Cabo de Hornos). Discovered in 1616 by a Dutch maritime expedition -- and named after the town of Hoorn in West Friesland -- Cape Horn is a sheer 425-meter (1,394-foot) high rocky promontory overlooking the turbulent waters of the Drake Passage. For many years it was the only navigation route between the Pacific and Atlantic and was often referred to as the "End of the Earth." The park was declared a World Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 2005. The Chilean navy maintains a permanent lighthouse on the island, staffed by a lightkeeper and his family, as well as the tiny Stella Maris Chapel and modern Cape Horn Monument.
In the afternoon we navigate the narrow Murray Channel between Navarino and Hoste islands and drop anchor at historic Wulaia Bay, one of the few places in the archipelago where the human history is just as compelling as the natural environment. Originally the site of one of the region’s largest Yámana aboriginal settlements, the bay was described by Charles Darwin and sketched by Captain Fitzroy in the 1830s during their voyages on the HMS Beagle. This area is also renowned for its mesmerizing beauty and dramatic geography. After a visit to the Australis-sponsored Museum in the old radio station -- which is especially strong on the Yámana people and European missionaries in the area -- passengers have a choice of three hikes (of increasing degrees of difficulty) that ascend the heavily wooden mountain behind the bay. On all of these you will be strolling through an enchanted Magellan Forest of lengas, coigües, canelos, ferns, and other endemic fauna to reach a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the bay. Before leaving Wulaia Bay, drop something into the wooden mail barrel inside the museum – letters or postcards meant to be hand delivered by future travellers – an ancient mariner tradition revived by Australis.
We enjoy a four-course dinner including a blend of continental and Chilean cuisine.
After dinner, our all-inclusive bar features a wide selection of liquors, excellent Chilean wines and local craft beers, as well as our trademark Calafate Sour.
Overnight: Aboard Stella Australis ‘AA Cabin’
This morning, we sail into Argentine waters and dock in Ushuaia, the world's southernmost city. After disembarking, short transfer to Ushuaia Airport for your flight to Buenos Aires.
A busy port and adventure hub, Ushuaia is a sliver of steep streets and jumbled buildings below the snowcapped Martial Range. Here the Andes meets the famed Beagle Channel in a sharp skid, making way for the city before reaching a sea of lapping currents. The town's mercantile hustle knows no irony: there's a souvenir shop named for Jimmy Button (a Fuegian native taken for show in England) and the ski centre is named for the destructive invasive castor (beaver). That said, with a pint of the world’s southernmost microbrew in hand, you can happily plot the outdoor options: hiking, sailing, skiing, kayaking and even scuba diving.
Arriving in Buenos Aires, meet and greet and private transfer to your hotel.
Check-in with the remainder of the afternoon at leisure…an opportunity to relax or wander around this beautiful city. This evening is also at your leisure.
Overnight: NH Crillon Hotel, Buenos Aires
Buffet Breakfast served at the hotel.
Meeting your guide after breakfast this morning, we explore the Paris of South America…Buenos Aires.
Admire the iconic Casa Rosada presidential palace on Plaza de Mayo and stroll down the grand Avenida de Mayo, then explore the cobblestone streets of historic San Telmo, the birthplace of the tango. Head to La Boca to snap photos of the brightly painted houses along Caminito street, then explore the buzzing port of Puerto Madero and pay a visit to the impressive Recoleta Cemetery, home to Evita’s grave.
La Boca is one of the 47 districts of Buenos Aires, located next to the city’s port where Riachuelo river meet Rio de la Plata. It is one of the oldest parts of the city, the place where most of the European immigrants started their life in Argentina.
At the end of the 19th century, the district was heavily inhabited, mostly by people of Italian origins (hence Buenos Aires has a really amazing pizza!) who gave the area unique look and European vibe. The houses of La Boca are cute, colourful and somehow kitschy but that’s what makes the neighbourhood one of the biggest attractions of Buenos Aires!
After your guided sightseeing tour, lunch and the remainder of the afternoon is at your leisure.
Departing the hotel in the late afternoon…we travel to La Academia which is one of the local Tango studios for a one-hour lesson. This venue is located with El Aljibe, one of the finest Tango venues in Buenos Aires.
Tango, a dance of passion and drama, has become synonymous with Argentina. But its captivating history began far from the grand ballrooms it now occupies, emerging from the vibrant, underprivileged corners of 19th century Buenos Aires. In the ports of Buenos Aires in the late 1800s, European immigrants, freed slaves, and the working class mingled. This cultural melting pot combined the rhythmic beats of African candombe, the melancholic melodies of the Cuban habanera, and the elegance of European waltzes. The musical notes and traditional dances of each swirled together to give birth to the tango.
The early tango was a far cry from the sophisticated dance we know today. It was a fast-paced, improvised dance performed in working-class bars and brothels. The focus was on connection and expression, often tinged with a spark of sensuality and a hint of danger. By the early 1900s, tango began to gain traction in the upper echelons of Argentine society. In the 1920s, tango spread rapidly through Paris, where Parisian composers were drawn to its exotic allure, and moved quickly into London and Berlin. The dance itself became more refined, with a slower tempo and a more controlled style.
The 1940s marked the golden age of tango. Legendary singers and orchestra leaders like Carlos Gardel captured the hearts of millions with their soulful music and poetic lyrics. Tango became a national treasure, a symbol of Argentina's unique cultural identity. Despite facing periods of repression since its original decline in the 1950s, tango has endured. Today, it's a global phenomenon, with passionate communities keeping the tradition alive around the world.
Dinner this evening is one of Buenos Aires’ residents’ pastime…Dinner and Tango Show at El Aljibe.
Enjoy a memorable night out in Buenos Aires and experience the passion of the Argentine tango at an evening El Aljibe.
The place…In the heart of San Telmo, Aljibe Tango, opened its doors to the world in 1982. This completely restored historic convent is a classic journey through Buenos Aires culture through the ages.
The show…Let yourself be surprised by Aljibe Tango, a Tango venue that refers to the beginnings of the city of Buenos Aires and its old tenements that forged the popular culture of Argentina. The venue is located in the historical centre of the city and continues with the tradition of offering those who visit it, an unforgettable Tango and Folklore Show.
Overnight: NH Crillon Hotel, Buenos Aires
Buffet Breakfast served at the hotel.
Check-out after breakfast this morning and transfer to Buenos Aires Airport for your flight to Lima, continuing to Cuzco.
Upon arriving at Cuzco, meet and greet by your guide and transfer by private vehicle to your hotel.
As today has been a long travel day, this evening is at your leisure.
Overnight: Novotel Hotel, Cuzco
Buffet Breakfast served at the hotel.
We meet our guide this morning after breakfast and travel the short distance to Sacsayhuaman, an Inca fortress.
Sacsayhuamán, a monumental Inca fortress nestled in Cusco, Peru, stands as one of the most awe-inspiring structures of the ancient world. Built under the reign of Emperor Pachacútec in the 15th century, this architectural marvel was the labour of over 20,000 workers, who transported colossal stone blocks, some weighing up to 125 tons, from quarries located 20 kilometres away. Though only 40% of its original structure remains today, its grandeur continues to evoke wonder and intrigue: How did the Incas achieve such flawless precision in assembling these massive stones without modern tools? This enduring mystery, coupled with its sheer majesty, cements Sacsayhuamán as an unmissable destination for history buffs, archaeology enthusiasts, and adventure travellers alike, solidifying its status as one of Peru’s most iconic and enigmatic landmarks.
We return to Cuzco in time for lunch and the remainder of the afternoon at leisure.
This evening is at your leisure…an early wake up call tomorrow morning for the ultimate and luxurious travel day to Machu Picchu.
Overnight: Novotel Hotel, Cuzco
Buffet Breakfast served at the hotel.
Today is the day you have been waiting for…your journey to Machu Picchu aboard the ‘Orient Express of South America’.
To take the luxurious Hiram Bingham Train to Machu Picchu, you will travel to Poroy, just northwest of Cusco. The story goes that its name comes from the early Spanish who, en route to Cusco, would stop over, saying “For today (por hoy in Spanish), we rest here.” Machu Picchu is almost 1,000 metres lower in altitude than Cusco (3,399 metres – 2,430 metres) above sea level.
Heading towards Machu Picchu, your experience begins with a delicious welcome cocktail. Then savour a brunch and gourmet lunch as you admire the ever-changing scenery in the early light. The return journey can feel like a different world. See the Sacred Valley from a new perspective as the day draws to a close and anticipate a true fine dining experience.
Dining includes premium and non-premium beverages and a superb wine selection. You’ll also have the chance to dance to the beat of the Peruvian cajón and tambourines with traditional live music.
Welcome aboard the Hiram Bingham, a 1920’s style luxury train that takes passengers on a voyage to the heart of the Inca Empire.
With an ambiance of elegance where polished wood and brass catch the beautiful Peruvian sunlight, the Hiram Bingham is the perfect way to explore this magical part of the world. As you step aboard the authentic Pullman-style carriages, you’ll be taken back in time to the Golden Age of Travel and the glamour of a bygone era with gleaming woods and fine fabrics and fittings. Take in the ever-changing scenery as you glide from Cusco towards Machu Picchu with a cocktail in hand followed by a gourmet lunch, while the return journey feels like a different world as you see the Sacred Valley from a completely new perspective. Elegance and old-fashioned charm make for the perfect environment to explore the heart of the Inca Empire as you sink into your armchair or make your way to the observation car and watch the sunrise or starry skies above the truly unique landscape.
As the Peruvian landscape glides by, you are invited to sample some the delights of this magical region in a truly unique South American dining experience. Experience the magic of the mountains and sample a host of artisanal delights along your way as you wind your way from blissful brunches to decadent dinners, all served with exceptional regional wines. All our Peruvian dishes are expertly crafted on board by our talented chefs and combine traditional ingredients with a twist of modern finesse for the ultimate edible experience.
Sumptuous Lunch aboard the Hiram Bingham Train
Toast the morning with a welcome cocktail infused with Peruvian aguaymanto as the train meanders towards Machu Picchu. A traditional appetizer begins the feast, followed by a sumptuous main course and dessert – all paired with Peruvian wine. Look out for local delicacies, like cured trout ceviche, native potato salad and Cloud-Forest coffee.
All aboard for a hearty start to the day. After toasting the morning with a glass of sparkling wine and freshly squeezed orange juice, gaze in awe at the magnificent landscapes as you meander towards Machu Picchu. Starting with traditional appetizers to begin the feast, you move on to a main course like you have never tasted before, all paired perfectly with Peruvian wines. Succulent dishes to look out for include Cloud-Forest coffee, Peruvian beef and Sacred Valley corn.
Silver Service Dinner aboard the Hiram Bingham Train
This South American-inspired feast awaits you as you depart Machu Picchu. As the aroma of Andean cooking tantalising your taste buds, enjoy a Pisco Sour before taking your seat to enjoy a Peruvian menu rich in local produce that changes with the seasons. From traditional Pumahuancas salt-crusted trout to confit duck in a Peruvian sauce to Kiwicha caviar, every bite will be a sensation like you have never sampled before.
Created by renowned Peruvian mixologist Aaron Diaz, experience an inspiring and diverse range of cocktails served exclusively on the Hiram Bingham. Sample signature flavours with fresh Peruvian flair such as Picaflor Andino with Pisco and citrus tastes or sip a Belmond Swizzle consisting of Cartavio Solera rum, coconut and pineapple. Explore the beautiful regions of Peru as your senses explore tastes you have never come across before.
Welcome to Machu Picchu - Shrouded by mist and surrounded by lush vegetation and steep escarpments, the sprawling Inca citadel of Machu Picchu lives up to every expectation. In a spectacular location, it’s the most famous archaeological site on the continent, a must for all visitors to Peru. Like the Mona Lisa or the pyramids, it has been seared into our collective consciousness, though nothing can diminish the thrill of being here. This awe-inspiring ancient city was never revealed to the conquering Spaniards and was virtually forgotten until the early part of the 20th century.
Once in Aguas Calientes, travel via coach to the archaeological park of Machu Picchu, where a professional guide reveals the history and secrets of this fascinating place. Afterwards some free time, before returning to Aguas Calientes and board the Hiram Bingham Train back to Poroy. Upon arrival your private coach will transport you back to you accommodation located in the centre of Cuzco.
Overnight: Novotel Hotel, Cuzco
Buffet Breakfast served at the hotel.
Your final day in Cuzco is at our leisure…souvenir shopping, strolling around the old town enjoying the sights and smells…or just sit back in a café enjoying an espresso.
Cusco offers a vibrant and unique shopping experience, with a variety of markets, art galleries, and souvenir shops. You can find everything from traditional Peruvian crafts to modern art and clothing.
The best market and the most important in Cusco is called San Pedro market, this market is over 300 years. The outdoor stalls are filled with vendors calling out their wares, so be prepared to haggle if you want the best price (but remember that haggling is considered a part of Peruvian culture, so don’t be too aggressive!).
Another great place to visit in Cusco is the San Blas market located near Plaza de Armas in the old town centre. This smaller but equally vibrant market specializes in arts and crafts made by local artisans throughout Peru. It offers traditional Peruvian items like ponchos woven from alpaca wool as well as modern items like leather bags handcrafted by master craftsmen from Ayacucho province. You can also find jewellery pieces made with semi-precious stones found only in Peru as well as wood carvings depicting scenes from Incan mythology.
This evening, we take a short stroll to a local restaurant for dinner…you choose the venue, and I’ll make the reservation!
Overnight: Novotel Hotel, Cuzco
Buffet Breakfast served at the hotel.
Check-out after breakfast this morning and transfer to Cusco Airport for your flight to Santiago.
Arrive Santiago, collect your luggage and travel by hotel shuttle bus to the La Qunita by Wyndham airport hotel.
A day-use room for you to relax and freshen-up prior to returning by hotel shuttle bus to Santiago Airport for your flight home.
Welcome home!
Wednesday 25 March 2026
Located in the heart of Las Condes, an upscale neighbourhood with refined architecture, parks, shopping and a modern vibe, our luxury hotel offers easy access to Santiago’s top historical landmarks and unique attractions. Enjoy beautiful city views with a backdrop of the Andes Mountains and surrounding hills from your room or the hotel’s rooftop pool and terrace while deciding on which award-winning Chilean wine to taste. Indulge in the city’s wide gastronomic scene starting right here at our contemporary restaurant, Amandine.
Hyatt Centric Las Condes Santiago puts you at the centre of the action in upscale Las Condes in Santiago close to the subway. It's steps from Apoquindo and Isidora Goyenechea Avenue, where you’ll discover shops, cafes, and dining hot spots, including Tea Connection.
Enjoy ample space to relax when you stay at Hyatt Centric Las Condes Santiago. Discover upscale amenities and floor-to-ceiling windows with stunning views of the city. Upgrade to a suite for more room to stretch out with living area and terrace.
Grab a freshly brewed coffee first thing in the morning or a tasty snack in our lobby and common spaces during the afternoon.
Australis takes you on an amazing journey to the “uttermost end of the earth” on modern expedition cruise ships that ply the untamed wonderland at the bottom end of South America. Australis is an expedition cruise company that specializes in exploring the "end of the world" -- the pristine waterways of Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego at the bottom end of South America.
Catering to only around 200 passengers maximum, our ships undertake three-, four- and seven-night itineraries between September and April each year. Our Patagonia cruise tours sail between Punta Arenas (Chile) and Ushuaia (Argentina) along the Strait of Magellan, the Beagle Channel and other legendary passages including many places where few other cruise ships venture.
During 25 years of sailing and travel to Patagonia, we've had the privilege to introduce more than 100,000 travellers to the glaciers, fjords, sub-polar forests and amazing marine and terrestrial wildlife of Patagonia.
In addition to our vacation cruises, we have enhanced the region's visitor experience by funding the museum at Wulaia Bay and the eco-friendly boardwalks at Cape Horn and Ainsworth Bay. We also support scientific efforts by hosting researchers aboard our ships from Magallanes University, the New York-based Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) and the Center for Quaternary Studies of Fuego, Patagonia and the Antarctic (CEQUA).
Fully owned and operated by Chileans, our objective as a company is providing Australis passengers from around the world with an unforgettable cruise experience that includes extraordinary contact with nature, amazing cuisine and the best onboard service in South America.
Stella Australis
The 210-guest Stella Australis is a modern expedition cruise ship equipped with the latest navigation and safety technology. Cruising in Chile's famed Patagonia region, she features a spacious open top deck for admiring the spectacular southern scenery, as well as a gift shop, game room, infirmary and small library.
Three lounges are styled with modern audio-visual equipment for the most engaging naturalist lectures.
Dining Aboard Stella Australis
The expedition programs include welcome and farewell cocktails; breakfast lunch and dinner; open bar during the whole journey; and a cafeteria service. Aboard Stella Australis, enjoy exquisite food and the most famous Chilean wines. The menu includes international food and typical local dishes, alternating a la carte menus and buffets.
Seating is open, with tables seating as low as four people and up to ten, so you can enjoy a more intimate meal or socialize with a larger group.
Activities Aboard Stella Australis
During the cruise learn about the flora, fauna, history, geography, glaciology and ethnography of the legendary Patagonia region, through interesting lectures given by the Stella Australis Expedition Team, which will take place on board (with audio-visual support) as well as on land.
The Stella Australis has an exercise room on the Darwin Deck, which is closed and fully glazed.
During the cruise there are daily land excursions with an average duration of two hours. They consist of walks through trails in the native forests, visits to glaciers and to Cape Horn National Park, including talks on the flora and fauna of the area. Waterproof trekking jackets and trousers are available for purchase on board if required. Rubber boots are provided for use on board free of charge. Groups are formed to embark on zodiac boats, which take you ashore.
Sustainability Aboard Stella Australis
The protection and preservation of nature is a permanent preoccupation of the M/V Stella Australis.
She uses specialized processes to prevent damaging the beautiful spots of the region, such as the separation of oil waste and other contaminating fluids, which are later deposited at port; compacting and deposit of garbage at port; and a sewage and solid waste treatment plant.
Cabins & Deck Plan Aboard Stella Australis
There are 100 Stella Australis cabins across six categories, all with lower beds, a picture window, private bathroom, heating, closet and safe deposit box. While 96 cabins each measure 178 square feet, 4 Superior cabins on the Cabo de Hornos and Tierra del Fuego Decks each measure 220 square feet. Standard double beds aboard Stella Australis measure 5 x 6 feet, and standard twin beds measure 3.5 x 6 feet. Twin beds can be put together upon request.
Category AA
Category AA cabins on the Tierra del Fuego Deck are 178 sq ft each with standard-size twin beds or a double bed & 5’x4.5′ windows.
The elegant NH Collection Buenos Aires Crillon is located in the exclusive Retiro area of Buenos Aires. Designed by architect Héctor Morixe, this 1950s property successfully blends traditional styles with elegant French touches.
This hotel puts all of Buenos Aires’ finest attractions right on your doorstep. Within a short distance of the hotel you’ll find the city’s historical Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes, Teatro Colón and Museo Evita. Inside, the building is incredibly stylish. Its 96 rooms are filled with natural light and each contains a top selection of welcoming amenities, including complimentary tea and coffee, a large flat-screen television and a rain-effect shower.
All guest rooms at NH Collection Buenos Aires Crillon are contemporary and filled with natural light. The classic touches and neutral shades within also create a relaxing and welcoming environment. No matter which room option you choose, you'll receive a great selection of in-room amenities, including fast Wi-Fi, a comfortable mattress, and coffee and tea-making facilities.
Each morning, guests at NH Collection Buenos Aires Crillon can enjoy a buffet breakfast featuring a number of balanced and healthy options such as fruit juices, cheeses, fruit, yoghurts and breads. Hot dishes can also be made to order.
Throughout the day, the hotel’s restaurant and bar serves a fantastic collection of local and international dishes such as empanadas and pasta dishes in a friendly and warming atmosphere. Guests dining by the window can also enjoy magnificent views of Plaza San Martín.
If you’d just like a drink or a snack, head to the lobby bar. Here you can order sandwiches and snacks while you work through the selection of wines, beers and cocktails. There’s also a TV that shows live sport.
The Novotel Cusco Hotel is a 16th century mansion just steps from the Plaza de Armas, the Novotel boasts two wings: One colonial, evoking the epoch of the conquistadores with period artwork, and the other modern, decorated with regional tapestries and embroidery. The exquisite central courtyard is the perfect place to relax. All rooms are brightly coloured and well equipped with all the standard services.
The excellent French restaurant, located in the hotel’s garden, is complemented by a comfortable, crystal-vaulted bar. Coca tea is available at reception to help adjustment to Cusco’s altitude.
Novotel Cusco Hotel melds an aristocratic 16th century mansion – a national historic monument – with a five-story building offering a marriage of colonial ambiance and modern amenities. The reception area opens to the original arched stone courtyard, now covered with a vaulted glass roof, where guests relax in a rattan furnished lounge area.
La cave Restaurant, offering international and local cuisine in an elegant and cosy atmosphere. Also lunch and dinner served in the heated patio beneath a spectacular glass ceiling.
