Vibrant Wonders of Peru & Antarctica - Cruise & Land Lourney: 22 days Lima to Buenos Aires

Welcome to Lima, the vibrant capital of Peru. This cosmopolitan city is home to an incredible food scene, some of the world’s finest restaurants, compelling museums and contemporary galleries.

Check in for a two-night stay at the exquisite AC Hotel by Marriott Lima Miraflores, a stylish, contemporary hotel set beside the beach. 

Embark on a captivating exploration of Lima, a city that seamlessly blends history and modernity. From the meticulously restored colonial architecture to the hidden gems tucked away in its bustling streets, your expert local guide will reveal the city's rich tapestry of culture and heritage. Beyond Baroque balconies lie secret treasures from the age-old library to the patchwork of bones that line the ossuary of the city’s grand Franciscan monastery.

Enjoy a city tour with a welcome lunch, exploring the charms of colonial and modern Lima. Admire cathedrals and convents, visit San Isidro financial district and tour the famed Larco Museum.

This morning fly to Cuzco, the gateway to the Sacred Valley. Travel through breathtaking landscapes to the Tambo Del Inka Resort & Spa, a luxurious sanctuary set beside the Urubamba River amidst the majestic Andes. Your relaxing stay in the Sacred Valley allows you to experience the history, unique lifestyle, culture and majestic scenery of this heartland of the former Inca empire.

Tonight, delight in an unforgettable culinary experience at a Tapas Dinner with local performances.

Join your expert local guide for a walking tour of Ollantaytambo, the site where Manco Inca defeated the Spanish conquistadors. Indulge in an authentic Andean feast at a local Hacienda, where tradition comes to life through vibrant weaving demonstrations and stories of local customs and life.

The afternoon invites you to wander the charming village of Urubamba at your leisure. 

Today, tailor your day to your tastes and pace. Explore the ruins of Pisac, built by the Incas in the 15th century, and its vibrant markets. Peruvians from surrounding villages come to purchase their fruit, vegetables and meat, and you can find authentic crafts and clothing. Or marvel at the engineering marvels and mysteries of Moray, and the mesmerising Incan salt pans, where thousands of pools are dug into the mountainside.

Indulge in a culinary extravaganza featuring five tantalising meats, each prepared in a unique style using ingredients sourced from Tambo's own organic garden.

This morning, embark on one of the world's most spectacular train rides, a Vistadome rail journey that climbs through breathtaking landscapes to the legendary Machu Picchu. The most famous archaeological site in South America, this mountaintop citadel was built by the Incas in the 15th century but remained lost to history until it was rediscovered in the early 1900s. Explore the enigmatic ruins with expert guides, delving into the mysteries of this ancient site.

As night falls, retreat to the charming Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel.

Continue your journey by train to the charming city of Cuzco, the imperial capital of the Incas. The oldest continually occupied city on the continent, it sits at a soaring 3,399 metres above sea level, making it one of the highest settlements in the world.

You'll be welcomed to the luxurious Palacio del Inka, a Luxury Collection Hotel. Set inside a 500-year-old mansion, enjoy a two-night Scenic Special Stay ensconced in the heart of this storied city, surrounded by opulence and history.

Unravel the secrets of Cuzco as you wander through its cobblestone streets and past awe-inspiring architecture. On your walking tour, you will uncover the history of this World Heritage-listed site where ancient Incan ruins sit alongside colonial whitewashed houses and grand Baroque palaces. Your final stop will be the imposing ruins of Sacsayhuamán fortress, where the carved stone blocks form the shape of a puma’s head.

Experience vibrant local culture as you explore the bustling San Pedro Market, where traditions, aromas, and flavors create an authentic cultural encounter at every turn.  

Welcome to Buenos Aires. The colourful Argentine capital is known as the ‘Paris of the Americas’ and is an elegant city with pockets of unique character. Check in to your hotel for a two-night stay. 

Discover the vibrant allure of Buenos Aires as you immerse yourself in the city's highlights and experience its unique charm. Latin passion and European romance define this beautiful capital, a dynamic city known for its wide-ranging architectural styles, contemporary and historical arts, and culinary experiences. Enjoy a four-hour tour of the city this morning that takes you to the main historic sites of Buenos Aires, including the Casa Rosada (Pink Palace) and the Recoleta Cemetery, resting place of Argentine luminaries like Eva Peron.

Depart Buenos Aires on an included flight to Ushuaia the gateway to Antarctica and the world’s southernmost city, nestled on the rugged shores of Tierra del Fuego. The Captain and crew will warmly greet you as you board your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht.

Raise a glass of Champagne as you set sail through the legendary Beagle Channel, tracing the path of Charles Darwin’s historic voyage. From your private verandah or the Observation Deck, take in breathtaking views of the snow-capped Andean peaks and pristine Patagonian wilderness—marking the beginning of an unforgettable expedition.

Enjoy breakfast in your suite as your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht navigates the legendary Drake Passage bound for Antarctica. Take in the vast expanse of the Southern Ocean as moment brings you closer to an unforgettable adventure.  

Feel the excitement building up as the Discovery Team shares with you all the details on how your Zodiac, helicopter^, submarine^ and other discovery expeditions will work. Get familiar with the team and your polar equipment – your expedition kit includes an expedition parka and water bottle that are yours to take home, plus the use of specialised polar boots, trekking poles and specific equipment you need for kayak and paddleboard excursions. Between landings, your outdoor gear will be stored in a personal locker in our convenient Discovery Centre. Prepare yourself for unparalleled ‘pinch-me’ moments, and be exposed to the unpredictability of the region, with your expert team deciding the course of action in the coming days.  

The team will make every attempt to have many landings and Discovery Excursions, including Zodiac tours, kayaking and optional helicopter^ flights and submarine^ dives. 

Today you will enter Antarctic waters, an unpredictable but stunningly beautiful environment. Put on your complimentary polar parka and head to the Observation Deck to spot icebergs for the first time – it’s a feeling that will stay with you forever.

Watch out for whale blows in the distance. Your Discovery Team is available to provide insightful information.

Be sure to check your daily program for the essential biosecurity and boot fitting schedule. And join the fascinating enrichment lecture on marine and seabird life – a captivating experience that will enhance your knowledge and connection to the natural world around you. 

Slide open the floor-to-ceiling doors of your verandah suite to see icebergs sculpted by nature and glacial mountains rising from the ocean. Antarctica is a birdwatcher's delight, home to a variety of species, so keep your eyes peeled for wandering albatrosses, shearwaters, giant petrels and more. 

Due to the extraordinary nature of the region, excursions throughout your Expedition Voyage are dependent on weather conditions. Your experienced Captain and Discovery Leader, who have made countless journeys to Antarctica, will use their expertise to design a bespoke voyage, making the most of your time in this spectacular destination.  

Scenic Discovery:
Daily experiences may include cruising on Zodiacs, stepping ashore to view vast penguin rookeries or historic huts, and kayaking or paddle boarding around icebergs. Wherever your voyage takes you, you will have countless “pinch me" moments.

Start your day with freshly squeezed juice, steaming barista-made coffee or tea delivered to your door by your butler. Then set out on Zodiac excursions to explore breathtaking glaciated bays, tranquil channels and pristine landing sites. As you trek across the Antarctic wilderness, meet the adorable chinstrap, Adélie and gentoo penguins that inhabit this magical region

Small groups offer the best way to experience an environmentally sensitive destination like Antarctica. Guests will board the zodiacs according to their designated colour, where our expert polar Discovery Team will guide them, ensuring an unforgettable and unique adventure.

Various species of penguins can be found in Antarctic and the sub-Antarctic region, including Adélie, Chinstrap, Gentoo, and the very rare Emperor. Guided by the expert Discovery Team, you’ll witness colonies up close; hear their calls and watch as they clumsily waddle along and interact with each other.  

Whales are another majestic creature you may encounter, whether a minke, a humpback or an Orca. Watch them up close in a kayak or a Zodiac with the Discovery Team or observe them from the comfort of your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht. However, you see them, it’s a breathtaking experience. 

Scenic Discovery:
Ask your expert Discovery Leader for photography tips so you can best capture the incredible wildlife and landscape around you. 

From the moment it was discovered, Antarctica has held an irresistible allure for intrepid adventurers. The bold exploits of legendary explorers like Scott, Shackleton, and Amundsen have fueled its mystique, inspiring generations to venture into this untamed wilderness. 

On this unforgettable day, you’ll cruise past Antarctica's stunning icy mountains before stepping ashore by Zodiac to immerse yourself in the polar wilderness. With ample time to explore, this voyage ensures you experience the magic of this awe-inspiring landscape up close. 

Back on board, enjoy a specialty tea or coffee in the Observation Lounge and take in the views through Swarovski telescopes. 

In the untouched silence of this frozen wilderness, nature’s rare sounds become unforgettable—whether it’s the endearing chatter of penguins squabbling over prized pebbles or the thunderous roar of a glacier calving into the sea. 

Towering glaciers provide one of the most awe-inspiring spectacles of your journey, with the chance to witness massive ice formations breaking away, creating brand-new icebergs before your eyes—a moment of pure wonder. 

On board, explore some of your Discovery Yacht’s indulgent spaces, from the welcoming Observation Lounge to the expansive Senses Spa#. Choose one of up to 10 world-class dining experiences on board tonight.  

On your ultra-luxury yacht, every moment is crafted for both comfort and connection. Our inviting lounge provides the perfect setting to unwind and share unforgettable experiences with like-minded travellers. 
For those craving adventure, the legendary Polar Plunge offers a thrilling rush—an unforgettable dive into icy waters, expertly coordinated by the Expedition Leader and Captain. 

If you prefer to stay warm, find a prime viewing spot and enjoy the spectacle as fellow guests take the plunge, then join them for a toast with a glass of whiskey or a steaming cup of hot chocolate. 

Scenic Discovery:
Glide past towering icebergs on a zodiac, step onto untouched white snow, and soar over vast mountain ranges. This is one of the world's few remaining pristine wildernesses, awaiting your exploration.

As you cruise back across the Drake Passage toward South America, take this time to indulge in the ultra-luxury comforts of your Discovery Yacht and reflect on the awe-inspiring moments you’ve experienced. 

Start your day with an invigorating workout in the state-of-the-art gym, a guided Pilates session, or a moment of relaxation in the PURE: Yoga & Pilates Studio.  

As evening arrives, unwind in the elegant Scenic Lounge Bar, where you can toast to your expedition with a perfectly aged whiskey, a glass of fine wine, or a flute of French Champagne—all part of Scenic’s truly all-inclusive ultra-luxury philosophy.

Make sure you book a treatment# at the tranquil Senses Spa before your expedition ends. Perhaps an ESPA facial or massage# or an alternative therapy including Ayuverdic massage or Japanese shiatsu. Afterwards, hold on to that feeling of calm for a while longer in the Zen-like space of the Vitality Lounge. 

On your last night onboard for dinner choose from Koko’s Asian Fusion Sushi @ Koko’s (available by on board reservation) to watch the chefs at work or enjoy the spectacle of teppanyaki-style dining inspired by the markets of Asia at Night Market @ Koko’s (available by on board reservation).  

This morning, bid farewell to your expert crew and fellow travellers as your extraordinary journey comes to an end. After a final indulgent breakfast on board, disembark in Ushuaia and board your flight to Buenos Aires, carrying with you memories of an unforgettable adventure in the pristine landscapes of Antarctica. 

Please book your flight to depart out of Buenos Aires after 09:30 PM.

#Spa treatments at additional cost. +All drinks on board, including those stocked in your mini bar, are included, except for a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, Champagnes and spirits.  Specialty restaurants require a reservation, enquire on board. ^Flights on board our two helicopters and submersible experiences are at additional cost, subject to regulatory approval, availability, weight restrictions, medical approval and weather conditions. Sightings cannot be guaranteed.

The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such, Scenic cannot guarantee the voyage will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information. Hotels are indicative and subject to change.