Antarctic Express: Fly the Drake

**Please note that on certain flights you can connect straight through to Punta Arenas,. Where you cannot you must overnight in Santiago outbound and inbound. Please ask our travel consultants.**

Day 1

Arrive in Punta Arenas, Chile

Start your adventure in Punta Arenas, Chile, the most populated city of southern Patagonia. Arriving early offers the chance to explore a variety of museums, restaurants, and shops at your leisure. In the early afternoon, a representative from Quark Expeditions® will greet you at the designated starting hotel. Here, you will be treated to a welcome dinner and receive important information to prepare you for the embarkation day ahead.

Day 2

Fly to King George Island and Embarkation

Your charter flight from Punta Arenas to Antarctica will take you across the legendary Drake Passage in only two hours. Far below, the ship will approach King George Island for your arrival.

Your first glimpse of dramatic Antarctic landscapes will be from a unique perspective as your plane descends for landing in the South Shetland Islands. After landing, make your way to the shore before being transferred by Zodiac to your ship to set sail for the Antarctic Peninsula!

Days 3 to 6

Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands

As your Captain and Expedition Team spot for whales and seabirds, they will promptly inform you of any new sightings. The team's expert presenters will enrich your journey with detailed explanations about the region's glaciology, history, and wildlife. Additionally, photography presentations will be offered to assist you in capturing unforgettable images.

The excitement escalates with your daily expeditions. Your inaugural Zodiac landing is an experience that will forever be etched in your memory. Setting foot on a beach teeming with penguins offers an exceptionally personal encounter with Antarctica's unique wildlife.

Your activities might include a Zodiac cruise in pursuit of whales and icebergs one day, and a hike to a penguin colony the next. Experiences range from the thunderous sound of a glacier calving to the excitement of observing apex predators like leopard seals and orcas in their natural habitat.

Throughout your journey, the Expedition Team will be by your side, offering insight and understanding into the incredible destinations you visit.

Day 7

Disembarkation and Flight to Punta Arenas

Following a week filled with discovery, you'll bid farewell to your Expedition Team and disembark at King George Island. A two-hour flight across the Drake Passage will take you back to Punta Arenas, Chile, marking the conclusion of your journey. Upon arrival and a group transfer to your hotel, the remainder of the day is yours to enjoy. You can choose to explore the city, relax at the hotel, or spend the evening reflecting on the unforgettable experiences and natural wonders of Antarctica.

Day 8

Depart Punta Arenas

After breakfast, you are welcome to continue on your own travels or make your way to the Punta Arenas airport for flights homebound.