14-Night Ushuaia to Rio de Janeiro

Although its nickname the "End of the World" - derived from its location along the southernmost tip of South America among the Tierra del Fuego archipelago - Ushuaia is far from the end of any adventure. Where the Andes meet the Beagle Channel and the snow-capped Martial Mountains sit behind a sprawling city of colorful buildings, lies a lively town ready and waiting to take you on the thrill ride of a lifetime. Scenes like Parque Yatana give you the chance to immerse yourself in the rich, indigenous culture.

Sitting at the entrance of the Beagle Channel and considered part of Tierra del Fuego, Isla de los Estados is a remote stop only accessible by boat. Rugged landscapes, snow-covered peaks, dense low forests, glimmering lakes and deepwater fjords create a stunning scene of an untouched environment that makes it clear why the island has been designated an ecological reserve. The abundant wildlife that calls it home includes Magellanic penguins, sea lions, seals and orcas. Look to the skies for a variety of seabirds, including cormorants, as they dive toward the water on the hunt for fish. Isla de los Estados holds a rich history that is on display at Estancia Harberton, a National Historical Monument showcasing the connection between early European settlers and the local indigenous community. It's also the setting of Jules Verene's novel, Lighthouse at the End of the World, giving it an aura of adventure.

Among the seaside cliffs of Settlement Rookery, black-browed albatrosses, king cormorants and rockhopper penguins make their homes. From peregrine falcons to skuas to thin-billed prions, the island is the breeding ground for more than 40 species of birds. Around the island, sea lions and fur seals can be found aplenty. Swimming in the inshore waters you can find Peale’s dolphins as they breed. Sweeping scenes of tussock, cinnamon and blue couch grass create expansive landscapes that inspire a sense of wonder.

CAPTAIN’S CHOICE — Your Captain will expertly navigate ice floes, icebergs and changing sea and weather conditions to ensure you experience the most from your expedition. Each day is a new adventure filled with a spontaneous sense of exploration as your Captain works with our expedition team to determine possible shore landings and Zodiac safaris. All itinerary routes serve as examples and are subject to change based on current conditions, prioritizing the safety and optimal expedition experience for all guests.

Although small, Port Stanley contains a big personality. Its signature landmark, the famous whale bone arch, speaks volumes about this eccentric and rarely visited destination. The colorful, small town lies on the Falkland Islands, a hot spot and haven for watching Magellanic penguins. The Malvinas call to every adventurer with an abundance of pubs, eateries and historic attractions to explore. Visit the Historic Dockyard Museum, a one-stop site to learn about life in the camp, Antarctic connections and the 1982 war with Argentina.

Uruguay's cool capital city Montevideo calls out with its cobbled streets, wide avenues, colonial buildings and verdant cityscapes along the waterfront, known as the rambla. To get social with the locals, share in their tradition of drinking yerba mate. Everywhere you go in Uruguay you see people drinking the strong, herbal tea out of cups that look like gourds, sipping through a long, thick straw. For the full color and vibrant life of the city, head to Mercado del Puerto, where you find a 19th-century restored building housing various stalls and eateries. About an hour drive outside the city explore the newest UNESCO World Heritage Site Church of Atlántida.

Few cities in South America share the ambiance and lifestyle that make Buenos Aires so endearing. From the Plaza de Mayo to the milongas along San Telmo’s cobbled streets, Buenos Aires is rife with historical and cultural sites for the curious mind.

The cosmopolitan capital of Argentina lies on the western shore of the Río de la Plata estuary. The combination of modern skyscrapers and colonial structures blends the country’s past and present in a way that calls out to the adventurer with a thirst for knowledge.

In the Plaza de Mayo you find a dotting of tropical palm trees amid old streets and buildings. The plaza holds much history as the site of the city’s foundation in 1580, the backdrop for the revolution of independence, and the scene of the latest political rallies.

At the heart of this historical site lies Casa Rosada, the Argentinian equivalent of the White House, but pink. It’s more than a novelty sight. It’s a symbol of the executive branch of government that leads the republic. Casa Rosada is best known as the location where famous first lady Evita Peron addressed the crowds.

A trip to Buenos Aires must include a visit to Recoleta Cemetery, the resting grounds of the powerful, rich, and famous. Stone paths lined with extravagant grave markers and aboveground tombs make it a celebration of the legacies that live on long after one is gone. Dive deep into Argentinian culture by joining an asado, a barbecue. As you indulge in the rich flavors of Argentinian steak and Malbec, you will come to understand and appreciate the culture’s finer points.

The port city of Itajai, home to famous surf beaches like Praia Brava and Praia do Atalaia, offers a stunning array of sandy shores and natural wonders. Known for mesmerizing beaches, delicious seafood cuisine, and as a hot spot for surfing, the enchanting capital of Santa Catarina, Florianopolis, beckons you to let loose your wild side.

A cable car ride over the mountain separating Praia da Laranjeiras from the central beach offers a magnificent aerial view of the scenery. Among the many natural formations throughout Brazil, the six-meter-tall rock known as Parrot's Beak gives you the opportunity to strike a pose with one of Itajai's most famous sites. From catching waves at Joaquina Beach to enjoying the secluded tranquility of Galheta Beach, Florianopolis gives you the chance to bask in all the natural beauty Brazil has to offer.

Founded in the 16th century, São Francisco do Sul stands as one of Brazil's oldest towns. Cobblestone streets and colonial structures, many listed on the National Historic Registry, create a pathway to a rich history waiting for you to uncover it. Its historic center enchants you with colorful facades, clock towers and enticing architectural designs. Strolling along the quay, a serene scene of bobbing boats and perhaps some river dolphins passing through beckons you to revel in the moment. Sandy shores as far as the eye can see create a quintessential scene of Brazil, but Forte Beach holds a particular allure as it takes some effort to get there. Once you do arrive, behold azure seas and verdant forests that invite you to bask in the sun.

The archipelago of Ilhabela, lying off the southeast coast of Brazil, is one of the region's most popular weekend escapes for locals. It's natural beauty, beach scenes and overall picture of a tropical paradise invite residents and travelers alike to come revel in a relaxing day of quiet adventures or water sports. Between the more popular beaches of Feiticeira and Praia Grande you'll find Praia do Julião, a more secluded gem. Ilha das Cabras, one of the archipelago's islands, contains the Submarino Ecological Sanctuary, where you may have the chance to go diving or snorkeling with starfish, seahorses and turtles.

Rio de Janeiro invokes images of a never-ending festival as one of the most celebrated cities in the world. From dancing samba on the beach of Ipanema to exploring the art deco influences of Copacabana, it comes alive. The iconic Christ the Redeemer statue, seen for miles in any direction, encapsulates the city's grand feel. On the mouth of Guanabara Bay lies the peak of Sugarloaf Mountain, where you can take a cable car ride to the top for exhilarating, bird's-eye views of city structures expanding to the edges of lush green cliffs into blue waters. Just on the outskirts of the city, a new UNESCO World Heritage Site awaits to be explored - Sítio Roberto Burle Marx - a garden designed by the landscape architect it's named after.