Exploring South America & Antarctica
Embarking on a 22-day journey aboard Holland America’s Oosterdam was a once-in-a-lifetime adventure filled with unique experiences. Antarctic Cruise: This Ultimate Port Guide will take you from the bustling streets of Buenos Aires to the icy wilderness of Antarctica and the stunning fjords of Chile, every port and scenic cruising day brings something extraordinary.
This blog post shares practical insider tips about the ports we visited, the scenic cruising highlights, and more. These tips will be invaluable as you plan your Antarctic and South American cruise.
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Our Destinations & Scenic Cruising Highlights
The start of Our Antarctic Cruise: Ultimate Port Guide Was Buenos Aires, Argentina. Before setting sail and after our daughter arrived, we spent a couple of days soaking up the energy of Buenos Aires as a family. Riding the Subte (subway) allowed us to give her a taste of local life, and the street art in San Telmo was a highlight for her. Before she arrived to meet us for the cruise, we spent over a month in Buenos Aires. You can read more about the adventures we shared in separate blog posts and YouTube videos, including our one-month itinerary, cost breakdown, and our 35 unforgettable things to do in Buenos Aires.
Montevideo, Uruguay: Strolling down Rambla Francia in the early morning was peaceful, and the scent of freshly baked bread from nearby markets made our stomachs rumble. This coastal city has incredible street art, which we enjoyed finding as we wandered through the streets and parks. Tucked away from the main street, we found a charming Alfajor bakery, one of the best sweet treats of our trip! Also, visiting Independence Plaza during the holiday season added extra festive magic to our visit. Also, it kept the season alive, as we were so far from home and trying to keep our daughter from missing out on the Holiday spirit.
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Punta del Este, Uruguay – Seeing La Mano sculpture in person was a wish-list moment, but what made this stop even better was discovering a local seafood market where fishermen tossed scraps to enormous sea lions. They were like lazy, well-fed dogs basking in the sun, something we didn’t expect to witness up close! Beyond these highlights, Punta del Este surprisingly has much to offer for a day visit from a cruise. We started by strolling through Puerto de Punta del Este, a lively marina where luxury yachts dock alongside local fishing boats. We craved some beach time from here, and Playa Brava is conveniently located near La Mano, perfect for a scenic coastal walk. If you’re up for a short boat ride, Gorriti Island offers secluded beaches, peaceful nature trails, and panoramic views of Punta del Este’s skyline. For art lovers, we recommend visiting the Ralli Museum, a hidden gem in the Beverly Hills district. The museum is free to enter and features an impressive collection of contemporary Latin American art, including sculptures by Salvador Dalí. It was a peaceful and unexpected cultural highlight in this vibrant resort town. Punta del Este’s mix of nature, history, and art made it one of the most surprising stops on our journey!
Puerto Madryn, Argentina – Our day didn’t go as planned due to strong winds delaying our arrival and canceling our shore excursion to see penguins. However, the cost was entirely refunded, leading to an unexpected adventure. We hired a local taxi driver for about $70, who took us to the Punta Loma Sea Lion Reserve instead. These unplanned adventures often turn out to be the best travel moments! Although we missed our first opportunity to see penguins in their natural habitat through our scheduled shore excursion onboard the Oosterdam, we also saved some money overall, salvaging what would have been a lost day of adventure.
Falkland Islands (Port Stanley) – Our journey to Volunteer Point was an adventure in itself! The rugged 4×4 ride across ancient peet-filled marshes on no-road terrain felt like a safari through the wild. But the payoff was enormous, thousands of King, Gentoo, and Magellanic Penguins waddling freely, caring for their chicks, and diving into the crisp blue waters. We even saw sheep and penguins coexisting in the same fields, something we didn’t expect! We also wrote a separate blog post that dives deeply into this experience; check it out here.
Antarctica Scenic Cruising – Sailing through the ice-filled waters of Antarctica for more than five days was unlike anything we had ever experienced. Seeing massive icebergs the size of Manhattan up close, hearing the deep, resonant cracks as glaciers calved, and watching whales breach in the distance felt like stepping onto another planet and something truly hard to describe unless you experience it. Antarctica’s sheer remoteness and pristine beauty left us in awe, and the golden glow of the midnight sun only added to the surreal atmosphere. The golden hour phenomenon here was not just an hour; it stretched for hours and hours, providing some of the best lighting and opportunities for breathtaking photos. With the sun barely dipping below the horizon, we had endless chances to capture the icy landscapes, glowing icebergs, and wandering penguins in the softest, most enchanting light late into the night. A memorable takeaway from this experience was an “Order of The Red Nose” certificate, which was given to us by Holland America, commemorating this visit.
Crossing Drake Passage & Rounding Cape Horn – Our journey to Antarctica took us through the infamous Drake Passage, known for having some of the roughest seas in the world. We had mentally prepared for the “Drake Shake,” but to our surprise and relief, our passage to and from Antarctica was incredibly calm, a rarity for this unpredictable region. Though we were lucky, future travelers need to note that the Drake Passage can often bring massive waves and high winds, making it one of the most notorious crossings for ships. In preparation for what could have been a rough voyage, we booked our cabin on the lowest possible deck for passengers and as close to the center of the ship as possible, allowing for a minimal amount of movement onboard. As part of our voyage, we also had the honor of rounding Cape Horn, one of the most legendary maritime landmarks. Seeing the lighthouse at the edge of the world, where a Chilean military family lives year-round, was a surreal moment. The vast, open ocean and the sheer remoteness of this place made it clear why sailors have feared and respected these waters for centuries. Holland America presented us with Honorary Order of The Moss Back certificates to commemorate the occasion, recognizing our rounding of Cape Horn and crossing this historic and challenging passage.
Visiting Ushuaia and Tierra del Fuego National Park was breathtaking, but what made our visit special was our private tour with Javier, a fantastic local cab driver who became our daily guide. Instead of taking a pre-arranged excursion, we opted to hire Javier directly at the port, which turned out to be one of the best decisions of our trip. He took us on a personalized journey through Tierra del Fuego National Park, ensuring we didn’t miss any of the park’s most iconic sights. We hiked through pristine landscapes, stopping at Laguna Verde, Lapataia Bay, and the southernmost point of the Pan-American Highway, where we posed for a photo at the famous End of the World sign. The park’s mix of snow-capped mountains, serene lakes, and dense forests made for some of the most spectacular hikes of our journey. Beyond the park, Javier provided us with a local perspective on Ushuaia, pointing out historical landmarks and hidden gems we wouldn’t have discovered on our own. He took us to the Ushuaia city sign, where he encouraged us to pose for fun family photos and shared stories about the city’s past as a penal colony and its strategic role as a gateway to Antarctica. Along the way, we stopped at scenic overlooks and took in sweeping views of the Beagle Channel. Javier’s warmth and enthusiasm transformed what could have been a standard sightseeing trip into an immersive experience filled with laughter, history, and unforgettable memories. If you’re visiting Ushuaia, we highly recommend hiring a local guide to get the most out of your visit, especially if you want to avoid the crowds that come with any of the offered cruise excursions and want to truly enjoy hiking, photography, and hearing the fascinating stories behind this remote destination.
- Punta Arenas, Chile – Known as the southernmost city on mainland South America, Punta Arenas is filled with rich history, stunning viewpoints, and vibrant street art. We started our exploration at Plaza Muñoz Gamero, the heart of the city, where we admired the iconic statue of Ferdinand Magellan. Local legend says that touching the foot of the Indigenous figure on the monument brings good luck, and of course, we did just that! From there, we went to Mirador Cerro de la Cruz, a hilltop viewpoint offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city, the Strait of Magellan, and even distant Tierra del Fuego on a clear day, which we did not have. It would undoubtedly have been the perfect spot for capturing postcard-worthy photos if we had had the opportunity. One of the most unique stops was the Nao Victoria Museum, an open-air exhibit featuring life-size replicas of historic ships, including Magellan’s Nao Victoria, Darwin’s HMS Beagle, and the James Caird used in Shackleton’s Antarctic expedition. Walking on board these replicas made us feel like we had visited a different time! As we wandered through the city, we discovered Punta Arenas’ colorful murals and statues, showcasing everything from Patagonian wildlife to historical moments that shaped the region. The waterfront promenade was another highlight, where we enjoyed a scenic stroll along the Strait of Magellan, watching ships and fishing boats navigate the icy cold waters. For those with extra time, visiting Isla Magdalena offers an unforgettable wildlife encounter with thousands of Magellanic penguins in their natural habitat. While we didn’t get to experience this firsthand, we heard from fellow travelers that it was a must-see!
Chilean Fjords & Glacier Alley – We were bundled up on deck as we passed towering glaciers, sipping hot chocolate as the ship traveled slowly to give everyone the best view. Glacier Alley was mesmerizing; each glacier was named after a European country and one after a French boat, each looking like a frozen sculpture created by nature. Although Ed, our cruise director, narrated portions of this part of our trek, he had to depart, leaving us to fend for ourselves using Google Maps and our research on the last three of the six glaciers we passed.
We learned about:
España Glacier (Spain Glacier). Named after Spain, this glacier features a mix of blue and white ice, dramatic crevasses, and towering ice cliffs. It is often one of the first glaciers seen when sailing through the Beagle Channel.
Francia Glacier (France Glacier): This glacier stands out for its steep icefall, which cascades down the mountain into the water. It is known for its deep blue hues, especially in sunlight, and is a favorite among photographers.
Italia Glacier (Italy Glacier) – This glacier has a wide ice front and is surrounded by rugged mountain peaks. It frequently calves, sending chunks of ice into the channel, creating a dramatic display.
Alemania Glacier (Germany Glacier): This glacier, Recognized by its jagged, icy ridges, is one of the more active in the region. It shows visible signs of movement and frequent ice calving.
Holanda Glacier (Holland Glacier) is a smaller but stunning glacier known for its serene, picturesque setting. The contrast between the ice and the lush vegetation nearby makes for a unique view.
Romanche Glacier – The final glacier in Glacier Alley, named after the French ship Romanché, which explored the region. Its dramatic vertical ice formations and reflection in the channel’s waters make for a breathtaking sight.
Puerto Chacabuco, Chile – We were initially advised to book a cruise excursion, as we were told there were limited local tour options and not much to do in this remote port. However, our experience proved otherwise! Upon arrival, we found a variety of local tours available right outside the tender dock, offering excursions at different price points. Deciding to explore independently, we walked through the small town and took a scenic hike into the surrounding mountains. This led us to a local salmon farm on the opposite side of the bay, where we learned about the region’s aquaculture industry while soaking in the breathtaking landscape. Along the way, we stumbled upon the shipwreck of the Vina Del Mar, an enormous, rusting vessel that made for an intriguing and unexpected find. Before returning to the ship, we discovered a small, family-run craft shop where we met a local woman who hand-painted Patagonian landscapes on driftwood. Her artistry was beautiful, and we couldn’t resist buying a few handmade keychains for our daughter. The warmth and hospitality of the locals, combined with the dramatic snow-capped mountain views, made Puerto Chacabuco a far more rewarding stop than we had anticipated. We witnessed some of the most scenic views and natural beauty after we departed from this port while cruising to our next port within the Chilean Fjords.
Puerto Montt, Chile – Our time in port at Puerto Montt was filled with natural beauty, adventure, and cultural discoveries. We embarked on an unforgettable ship excursion through Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, home to some of Chile’s most stunning landscapes. Exploring the Beauty of Lake Todos los Santos. The breathtaking Lake Todos los Santos blew us away. This gorgeous lake, surrounded by lush greenery and the snow-capped Osorno Volcano, provided some of the most spectacular views of our entire journey. The crystal-clear waters reflected the towering peaks of the Andes Mountains, making for an incredible setting that genuinely felt like stepping into a painting.
Chasing Waterfalls at Petrohué Falls: One of the most memorable moments in Puerto Montt was visiting the Petrohué Waterfalls (Saltos del Petrohué). These mesmerizing falls, formed as the turquoise waters of the Petrohué River tumbled over ancient basaltic lava formations, were a testament to nature’s beauty and power. With Osorno Volcano standing proudly in the background, we took in the dramatic scenery from the boardwalks, surrounded by the untouched national forest. It was indeed one of the best picture-perfect spots we had visited!
Puerto Varas: The City of Roses: We also had the chance to explore the charming town of Puerto Varas, often referred to as the City of Roses. The town’s German heritage was evident in its unique architecture, bakeries, and charming rose-lined streets. We visited the beautiful Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, a stunning wooden structure built by German settlers in the 19th century. For lunch, we enjoyed a delicious fusion of German and Chilean flavors, including fresh local salmon, which Puerto Varas is known for. Beyond its cultural charm, Puerto Varas is a paradise for outdoor lovers. The town’s location on the shores of Lake Llanquihue, with Osorno Volcano towering in the distance, made for spectacular views at every turn. Whether you’re into shopping, kayaking, hiking, or just soaking in the breathtaking scenery, this gem in Chile’s Lake District is a must-visit when traveling through South America!
Our Final Day on the Oosterdam and Arrival in San Antonio, Chile
As our incredible 22-day journey aboard Holland America’s Oosterdam ended and we were docked in San Antonio, Chile, we were ready to transition into our next adventure. Rather than opting for the standard transfer offered by Holland America to Santiago, we decided to book a private tour with Stamp Tours. The cost was slightly more than the transfer, but the experience was far more enriching. By arranging our transportation, we explored several fascinating locations before settling into our next home base, Santiago, for the next month.
- A Visit to Viña del Mar and the Fonck Museum: Our first stop after disembarking our cruise and joining up with our guide at Stamp Tours was Viña del Mar, a coastal city known for its gardens and beaches. One of the highlights was visiting the Fonck Museum, home to an authentic moai statue from Easter Island. Standing before this enigmatic figure, we felt a profound connection to the rich history and culture of Rapa Nui. It’s remarkable to encounter such a significant heritage piece on the mainland. If you find yourself here, we highly recommend visiting the Fonck Museum to experience this cultural treasure firsthand.
Exploring Valparaíso’s Colorful Streets: Next, we ventured into Valparaíso, a city perched on hills overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Our first stop was Plaza Bismark, a scenic viewpoint where we took in the coastal panorama, even though the sky was overcast. A fresh food market nearby allowed us to see local produce and daily life in action, something we always appreciate in our travels. From there, we dove into the vibrant, slightly gritty streets of Valparaíso, which feel like an open-air art gallery. The murals here are breathtaking, constantly evolving, and telling the stories of this creative, bohemian community. Around every corner, we discovered new bursts of color and unique perspectives on life and art in Chile. Valparaíso is a place where you can truly feel the heartbeat of Chilean culture in every brushstroke.
A Wine Tasting at Viña Casas del Bosque: Our final stop was Viña Casas del Bosque, a stunning vineyard in the Casablanca Valley. Surrounded by rolling vineyards and breathtaking scenery, we sipped some of the best wines we’ve had in Chile so far. The crisp Sauvignon Blanc, flavorful Pinot Noir, and bold Carmenere were exceptional. The guided tasting experience provided insight into the winemaking process and what makes this region’s wines unique. It was the perfect way to slow down, take in the valley’s beauty, and savor another aspect of Chile’s rich culture.
A Perfect Introduction to Central Chile: As we finally made our way to Santiago, we couldn’t help but appreciate how much more we had experienced by choosing a private tour. Instead of heading straight to our accommodations, we immersed ourselves in history, art, gastronomy, and wine, giving us a deeper connection to the region before unpacking our bags. If you ever disembark in San Antonio, we highly recommend the scenic route to Santiago. The journey, after all, is just as important as the destination.
Final Thoughts: Is a 22-Day South America & Antarctica Cruise Worth It?
Absolutely! This bucket-list journey was unforgettable, from exploring more of Latin America than we could have ever hoped for to seeing penguins in the wild to sailing through breathtaking glaciers. Holland America’s Oosterdam and our privately booked adventures provided us with the perfect balance of luxury, adventure, and scenic cruising if you’re considering am unforgettable bucket list cruise or Antarctic expedition.
🚢 Would we do it again? In a heartbeat! The diverse landscapes, rich history, and unique wildlife made this one of our favorite travel experiences.
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