Antarctica: The White Continent – with Smithsonian Journeys

Buenos Aires is a dynamic and cosmopolitan city with a rich cultural and architectural heritage, known worldwide for Tango and football, but also for cafés, bookstores, and theaters. It is also the capital of a sprawling country of widely varying regions. This program is designed to introduce you both to the city and to life in the nearby countryside.

 

Day 1 – Ushuaia | Buenos Aires

 

After breakfast aboard, disembark the ship and transfer to the airport for your flight to Buenos Aires. Transfer to the Sofitel Buenos Aires Recoleta for check-in. Dinner is on your own this evening. Overnight at the Sofitel Buenos Aires Recoleta hotel.

 

Day 2 – Buenos Aires | San Antonio de Areco Buenos Aires

 

Today's excursion takes you northwest of Buenos Aires to San Antonio de Areco, once described as "the prettiest town in the pampas," where gaucho traditions of craftsmanship and hospitality are lovingly preserved. You will have the opportunity to explore the village's 18th-century buildings, including a traditional "puplería"—a sort of combination grocery store and bar that was a favorite hangout for gauchos when they were in town. A drive to the outskirts of San Antonio brings you to Estancia El Ombú de Areco, dating to 1880 and still a working ranch, where you will enjoy a specially prepared asado—the traditional Argentinian barbecue. After lunch you can experience life on the estancia on horseback, enjoy a carriage ride, or simply walk around the grounds. Return to Buenos Aires in the evening and enjoy a traditional Argentinean tango performance and dinner at a local restaurant. Overnight at the Sofitel Buenos Aires Recoleta hotel.

 

Day 3 – Buenos Aires | Homeward

 

After breakfast at the hotel and checking out of the hotel, join an excursion of the highlights of Buenos Aires. Begin at the historic Plaza de Mayo, surrounded by the Government House, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the Cabildo, which served as Town Hall during the 18th-century Spanish Viceregency. Continue to San Telmo, one of the oldest quarters in the city and a treasure trove of antiques, and La Boca, where you stroll the "Caminito," a pedestrian street famous for its colorful houses constructed of corrugated iron. Next is the elegant Recoleta, an area of sophisticated cafés, restaurants, and art galleries, and home to the cemetery that is the final resting place of Eva Perón. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Your tour comes to an end at the airport where you will depart for your flights homeward.

 

Your hotel:

The Sofitel Buenos Aires Recoleta is in the elegant Recoleta district, offering a perfect blend of French luxury and Argentine charm. This exquisite hotel features beautifully appointed rooms with stunning city views, ensuring a comfortable and stylish stay. Guests can indulge in gourmet dining at the renowned restaurant, unwind at the chic bar, or rejuvenate at the serene spa. With its prime location near cultural landmarks, boutiques, and vibrant nightlife, the Sofitel Buenos Aires Recoleta is an ideal retreat for discerning travelers.

 

Your program includes:

·        2 nights at the Sofitel Buenos Aires Recoleta (or similar)

·        Transfer and luggage handling from the pier to the hotel on Day 1

·        Transfer and luggage handling from the hotel to the airport on Day 3

·        Breakfast on Days 2 and 3

·        Lunch on Days 2 and 3

·        Dinner on Day 2

·        Sightseeing and programming as noted in the itinerary

·        Local English-speaking guide

·        Gratuities for the drivers and local guides

Your program does not include:

·        Transfer from the airport to the hotel on any day other than the scheduled program departure day

·        Personal expenses and other services and meals not mentioned as included in the program

Please note:

·        It is imperative that your flight departure details are communicated at least 90 days prior to the beginning of your cruise in order to secure your transfer from the hotel to the airport.

·        This tour involves walking on cobblestones and uneven surfaces and may not be suitable for those with mobility issues.

·        Late check-out is available depending on availability and at a supplement. An additional night is possible, upon request and depending on hotel availability. Please contact reservations or your travel agent for further details.

·        The official currency is the Argentine peso. Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, shops, and restaurants.

·        This post-cruise program is offered as a package. There will be no refunds for unused accommodations, meals, or excursions.

·        Program is offered on a space available basis.

·        Program is subject to change without notice.

Hotel contact information:

Sofitel Buenos Aires Recoleta

Posadas 1232

C1112AAE

Buenos Aires

Argentina

Telephone: +54 11 4808-2100

 

This program is a perfect way to ease into the adventure of an expedition to Antarctica, providing four days of relaxed exploration of the wondrously beautiful Lake District of Argentina. With the city of Bariloche as your base of operations, venture into lush forests, pristine lakes, and remote islands—all offering opportunities for gentle walks or active climbs, with panoramic views of landscapes that are inarguably among the most remarkable in the world.

 

Day 1 – Buenos Aires

 

Arrive at Buenos Aires's Ezeiza International Airport, where you will be met and transferred to the Sofitel Buenos Aires Recoleta in the heart of Buenos Aires. A local representative will be present at the hospitality desk in the afternoon to welcome you and to answer any questions you may have. Relax and enjoy the hotel's many amenities, or explore the boutiques and cafés in the area, before joining your fellow travelers for a welcome cocktail reception.

 

Day 2 – Buenos Aires | Bariloche

 

After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to the airport for your flight to Bariloche. Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to the NH Edelweiss Bariloche, your home for the next three nights.

 

Today's excursion is a scenic drive around the 40-mile Circuito Chico (small circuit) with breathtaking views of Lake Nahuel Huapi, Mount Tronador & Victoria Island. Explore Cerro Campanario, where a chairlift takes you to the top of the hill for panoramic views of the lake, the island, and the snow-capped Andes in the background. At Llao Llao Nature Reserve, an easy hike with a local expert introduces the local flora and fauna. And about half-way through the drive, stop at the Patagonia Brewery for lunch, which is as much a scenic destination as it is a restaurant. Situated right on the Circuito Chico, it takes full advantage of its location with views across Lago Moreno Este from a large living-room and an open-air patio. It serves a wide range of beers, including its own craft brews. Dinner this evening is at the hotel.

 

Day 3 – Bariloche | Isla Victoria and Arrayanes Forest

 

Breakfast at the hotel is followed by a short drive to Puerto Pañuelo, where you board a local boat and set sail for Isla Victoria. As you cruise the deep-blue pristine waters of Lake Nahuel Huapi, you gain another perspective on the stunning beauty the Argentine Lake District and the foothills of the Andes. On the island, a variety of walking trails welcome you to explore this nature reserve, and park rangers are available to answer questions. Enjoy a relaxed gourmet picnic lunch, planned by chef Lucas Mallman, before continuing the excursion with a visit to the Arrayanes Forest. This forest is the last remaining natural habitat for the Arrayán tree, a myrtle that grows to be some 60 feet tall and may live for as many 300 years. The fruits are sweet-tart and used in juices and candies, and the leaves are believed by indigenous peoples to have medicinal properties. Return to Bariloche, where dinner is at the hotel.

 

Day 4 - Bariloche

 

Today's excursion to Llao Llao Municipal Park provides one last perspective on the unparalleled beauty of Bariloche, as you join a hike to the summit of Cerro Llao Llao. Drive to Villa Tacul, where an expert guide joins you for the 4-mile out-and-back hike along a well-marked trail that winds slowly up Cerro Llao Llao. Witness ever-changing views of Lake Nahuel Huapi, Lake Moreno, and the Andes, as you make your way through forests full of birdlife, until the forest gives way to meadowlands with unobstructed views in all directions. At the summit, pause for a gourmet lunch, accompanied by Argentine wines, before descending to a pebbled beach on the shores of the lake.

 

Return to your hotel for some time at leisure before joining fellow travelers for a Farewell Dinner at the award-winning El Patacon restaurant in Bariloche.

 

Day 5 - Bariloche | Buenos Aires

 

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Buenos Aires, where you will be met and transferred to your hotel to join the main program.

 

Your hotels:

Located in the sophisticated neighborhood of Recoleta, known for its neoclassical architecture, The Sofitel Buenos Aires Recoleta stands out thanks to its contemporary style and imposing brick façade. The hotel offers easy access to main tourist attractions in Buenos Aires and features elegant, spacious rooms, a pool, restaurant and bar, offering a luxurious, authentic and exclusive experience.

 

Located in the resort city of San Carlos de Bariloche, the NH Edelweiss Hotel, is a 4-star hotel offering spacious and bright rooms facing the Nahuel Huapi Lake. The rooms are all equipped with flat-screen cable TVs and free WiFi, and there is a gym and a top-floor swimming pool. Buffet breakfast is included, and the La Tavola restaurant features regional and local flavors. Lighter fare is available at the patio bar, which boasts an excellent wine list.

 

Your program includes:

·        1 night in Sofitel Buenos Aires Recoleta, Buenos Aires

·        3 nights in the NH Edelweiss Hotel in Bariloche

·        Round-trip flights between Buenos Aires and Bariloche

·        Transfer and luggage handling from the airport to the hotel on the scheduled program arrival day

·        Transfer and luggage handling from the hotels to airports on days 2 and 5

·        Welcome Reception on Day 1

·        Breakfast on Days 2, 3, 4, and 5

·        Lunch and Dinner on Days 2, 3, and 4

·        Sightseeing and programming as noted in the itinerary

·        Local English-speaking guide

·        Gratuities for the drivers and local guides

Your program does not include:

·        Transfer from the airport to the hotel on any day other than the scheduled program arrival day

·        Personal expenses and other services and meals not mentioned as included in the program

Please note:

·        It is imperative that your flight arrival details are communicated at least 90 days prior to the beginning of your cruise in order to secure your transfer from the airport to the hotel.

·        Early check-in is available upon request if arriving on the first day of the program. An additional night is possible, upon request and depending on hotel availability. Please, contact reservations or your travel agent for further details.

·        The official currency is the Argentine peso. US dollars and credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, shops, and restaurants.

·        This pre-cruise program is offered as a package. There will be no refunds for unused accommodations, meals, or excursions.

·        Program is offered on a space available basis.

·        Program is subject to change without notice.

Hotel contact information:

Sofitel Buenos Aires Recoleta

Posadas 1232

1011 Buenos Aires,

Argentina

Tel: (+54) 11 4819 1100

 

NH Bariloche Edelweiss

San Martin 202

R8500ALP

Bariloche, Argentina

Telephone: +54 294 4445 5000