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Rockhopper penguins

Antarctica, South Georgia & Falkland Islands

Buenos Aires Roundtrip - Example 20 Day Cruise aboard Scenic Eclipse II
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Join this 20-day adventure to Antarctica, South Georgia & Falkland Islands aboard the Scenic Eclipse II. Explore the little islands with big tales to tell. Visit a number of the outer Falkland Islands, home to large penguin colonies. As the ship makes its way to South Georgia, witness the abundant marine life and learn about Shackleton and his crew. Finally, sail to the Antarctic Peninsula where you can see some of the world's most impressive scenery and wildlife; whales, seals, penguins, marine birds, and more. Magnificent icescapes are ever present. Head north to Ushuaia, while at sea reflect on your once-in-a-lifetime experience while enjoying the luxury amenities of the Scenic Eclipse II.
Marveling at all the shades of blue!Observe beautiful fur sealsWhere Shackletons spent four monthsA colony of king penguins on South GeorgiaA group of penguins in the Falkland IslandsExplore Port Stanley in the Falkland IslandsRockhopper penguins
Highlights
  • Visit the Falklands islands, where colonies of penguins & albatross thrive
  • Explore South Georgia, one of the most beautiful places in the world
  • Walk in the footsteps of Ernest Shackelton and visit his resting place
  • View the world’s most impressive scenery and wildlife at the Antarctic Peninsula
  • See the seals, whales, penguins, and seabirds of the polar regions
Activity Level: Relaxed
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Buenos Aires, Argentina

Arrive at your hotel for your one-night stay.
Latin passion and European romance define the beautiful city of Buenos Aires, a dynamic city known for its wide-ranging architectural styles, contemporary and historical arts, and culinary experiences.

Day 2: Flight from Buenos Aires | Ushuaia | Embark

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Dinner
Your journey begins as you fly from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia,  the southernmost city in the world. Be warmly greeted by the crew as you seamlessly board Scenic Eclipse II. Settle into your luxurious suite and acquaint yourself with the world-class facilities of your Discovery Yacht. Toast the start of your voyage as you sail away from South America and cruise through the Beagle Channel. Admire the dramatic views of the Andean mountains of Tierra del Fuego from the comfort of your private verandah.

Day 3: At Sea

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Make yourself at home on board Scenic Eclipse II and be immersed in unsurpassed luxury. As you cruise south, wildlife spotting opportunities abound; your expert Discovery Team is going to be with you out on the deck looking for albatross, prions, and petrels that follow the ship. Enjoy lectures on the history and geology of the Falkland Islands and the Southern Ocean in the state-of-the-art on board theatre.

Day 4-5: Falkland Islands

  • Ship
  • 2 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 2 Dinners
Remote and sparsely populated, the Falkland Islands are a wildlife lover’s paradise. You can visit several of the outer islands, where large colonies of penguins and albatross thrive. Fur seals and elephant seals roam sandy beaches, while the surrounding waters are home to whales and dolphins.

During your time in the Falkland Islands, you can likely to visit Stanley, the capital of the archipelago on East Falkland. Since its colonization in the 18th century, the ownership of the Falkland Islands has been clouded in controversy between French, British, Spanish and Argentina. In 1982, the Falklands War resulted in this remote outpost and the islands remain part of the British Commonwealth.

This town offers a unique British outpost feel as you meander through its central streets. Visit an array of local shops and see incredible landscapes such as the Christ Church Cathedral with its whalebone arch, or maybe even stop in at an English pub to share a pint with the friendly locals.

Throughout your time in the Falkland Islands, you can see why it is considered one of the wonders of the far Southern Hemisphere. Admire the windswept green hills and clear waters that lap the white sand beaches that could be mistaken for a much more tropical location. Walk along beautiful beaches, wander through tussock grass or sit atop a cliff and ponder the views. The photographer in you can feel the joy as your camera gets a workout.

Overflowing with natural beauty, the Falkland Islands is home to an army of penguins and birdlife. The world’s largest population of Gentoo penguins  is found here, in addition to other penguin species such as King, Magellanic and rockhopper penguins. Sit on the beaches and watch as they waddle along, interacting with each other.

You can also find the black- browed albatross, plus the Cobb’s wren and the Falkland’s flightless steamer duck which are both endemic bird species. Your expert Discovery Team, comprised of biologists, historians, geologists and other leading specialists, are sure to educate you on the local flora and fauna, making the most out of your time in the Falklands.

Day 6-7: At Sea

  • Ship
  • 2 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 2 Dinners
Spend the day at leisure exploring the various amenities of your luxurious Discovery Yacht. Tempt your palate at one of the dining experiences or unwind in Senses Spa.

Sailing towards South Georgia gives you time to slow to the rhythm of the sea. Enjoy your time to relax and be entranced by the many seabirds you’ll encounter on your way. You may decide to join the avid whale watchers hoping to get a glimpse of one of these giant mammals or simply contemplate the vastness of the ocean from your private verandah while your butler pours you your favorite drink.

Day 8-10: South Georgia

  • Ship
  • 3 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 3 Dinners
South Georgia is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places in the world. During your time here, the expert team on board Scenic Eclipse II has design a unique itinerary around weather and ice conditions to show you South Georgia's immense wildlife and stunning landscapes.

 A 3,000-meter mountain range forms the spine of the long, narrow island. Between the mountains, shattered glaciers carve their way through tussock grass to the deeply indented coastline. Despite being such a small outpost in the vastness of the South Atlantic, the sea around South Georgia is one of the liveliest areas on Earth. While it remains permanently uninhabited by humans, it is home to an abundance of wildlife, including king penguins, albatross, as well as elephant and fur seals.

Subject to weather and ice conditions, Fortuna Bay is possible landing site while in South Georgia. Offering both teeming wildlife viewing and a wonderful panorama from its beach of jagged summit peaks and the remarkable expanse of the Konig Glacier, it is home to a large population of king penguin, Antarctic fur seal, elephant seal, brown skua, giant petrel, and Antarctic tern. This site’s varying tundra and curious penguins and seal pups can likely provide some of the best pictures of your voyage.

In Salisbury Plain, visit the world's second largest king penguin colony, with more than 250,000 of them. The impressive sights and sounds that you can experience are beyond any photo or video. Be in awe before the amphitheater of snowcapped mountains looking down on the colony, as the penguins put on a show nesting, breeding and molting on the shores. Large amounts of elephant and fur seals are also found along the 3km long pebble beach, moving between the clusters of wildlife.

Another potential landing is the deserted whaling village of Stromness, the saving grace for Sir Ernest Shackleton and his companions. After a grueling 36-hour hike through the South Georgia Mountains, Shackleton was helped by the Norwegian whaling station manager at this remote outpost of civilization. Listen as your expert Discovery Team leader shares stories from the past as you admire the structures from afar. Discovery: Equipped with a fleet of custom-built Zodiacs and kayaks, your discovery excursions can take you to the places of you could only dream of before.

Your expedition of South Georgia could also visit some of the below locations.

Weather and ice conditions permitting, while in South Georgia, you may also explore the settlement of Grytviken.

Grytviken is also the final resting place of Antarctic explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton. As you stand in the cemetery, you'll feel the emotional connection to this legendary character, as if history came alive. Visit his grave, learn about his famous expedition and make a toast, paying respects to the great explorer. You can still see the remnants of the old whaling stations, with some ships left rusting around the bay and other abandoned outposts.  Now that hunting is history, these islands have remarkable ecological recovery, with wildlife populations rebounding.

A hidden gem located at the southeastern-most extremity of South Georgia, Cooper Bay offers various inlets and crevices along the rocky shores. Explore by Zodiac while watching for Giant petrels and brown skuas as they soar around above, or look into the kelp forests for playful fur seals. Onshore, admire the many seals as you climb a short but steep hill to find a macaroni penguin colony hidden among tussock grasses.

Drygalski Fjord is one of the most scenic areas of South Georgia. The narrow channel is a reminder of the powerful glacier that shaped this land. Sheer, snow-covered walls lined the fjord on either side as icebergs and bergy bits gently float by Scenic Eclipse II as you watch from the Observation Terrace. The Risting Glacier looms at the end of the fjord, so make sure you listen for a thundering crack that indicates a huge block of ice is falling into the water. Drygalski Fjord is also the main breeding area in South Georgia for snow petrels, so use your binoculars to find these as they blend into the white cliffs.

With nicknames including ‘Serengeti of the Southern Ocean’ and ‘Galápagos of the Poles’, South Georgia is a top spot for wildlife photographers from all over the world. Recognized for being home to some of the world’s largest concentrations of king penguins, South Georgia can leave you in awe  . Look along the black sand beach and witness a sea of black, white and bursts of yellow and orange, admiring as they stand, squabble, and curiously investigate. Listen as they loudly sing to each other.

In addition to king penguins, you can find gentoo, Macaroni penguins, and other glorious birdlife like the majestic wandering albatrosses, which you can see gliding on gusts of wind, over the choppy waves. One day you may see rookeries with hundreds of thousands of pairs of king penguins waddling on a beach, and the next day you may visit another beach dotted with thousands of fur or elephant seals. You'll be stunned by the numerous wildlife you'll see.

Day 11-12: At Sea

  • Ship
  • 2 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 2 Dinners
After days of exploration take a moment to yourself in your luxuriously-appointed suite. Marvel at wildlife from the observation deck as your butler brings you an afternoon tea. Then delve into an insightful conversation with one of our Discovery Team members after an educational lecture in the world-class theatre. Or simply watch as the world slips by as you rug up and relax in your cabana on Deck 10.

Today you can enter Antarctic waters, and the excitement starts to build as you search for icebergs. Put on your complimentary polar parka and head out on the Observation Deck to watch for seabirds, such as the wandering albatross with the largest wingspan of any flying bird. Alternatively, watch for the blow of a whale in the distance. Your palate can be delighted as you explore the extensive range of dining options on board, from casual to fine dining, including private in-suite meals served by your butler.

Day 13-17: Antarctica

  • Ship
  • 5 Breakfasts, 5 Lunches, 5 Dinners
Arriving in Antarctica for the first time is unlike anything you have experienced before. Welcome to a challenging, unpredictable, and stunningly beautiful environment that always finds a way to surprise you. Open your floor-to-ceiling sliding doors and step out onto the private verandah of your suite. See icebergs of different shapes and sizes sculpted by nature, majestic, glaciated mountains towering out of the ocean thousands of meters tall and enjoy the search for spotting penguins, seals, and whales.  A truly unique way to wake up and start your day of discovery.

At the heart of your Antarctic Voyage is the Scenic Eclipse Discovery Team. With up to 20 members, it comprises  leading experts in their fields, including diverse qualifications from science to geology, botany, history, photography, archaeology, anthropology, marine biology and glaciology. They can answer your most curious and technical questions and be with you throughout every moment of your journey.

Included in your Expedition Voyage are incredible activities such as Zodiac excursions, landings and hikes. You can also go kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding, which can become some of your favorite activities in Antarctica. Gliding along the water is peaceful and being at the same level as the icebergs is both a humbling and powerful experience. An expert guide is with you for any questions you may have, although it is the perfect time to embrace the silence and be in the moment.

Board your Zodiac and feel the fresh, crisp air on your face as you cruise towards the 7th continent. Hear the snow crunch under your boot as you prepare for what the landing has in store. Each new encounter can fill you with awe. Witness wildlife in their natural habitat, with no fear of humans, or see historic sites scattered on the shoreline. Antarctica is truly a land of wonder.

Due to the extraordinary nature of the region, a host of choices throughout your Expedition Voyage are open and dependent on the ice and weather conditions. Your experienced Captain and specialist Discovery Team, who have made countless journeys to Antarctica, use their expertise to design your voyage from day to day, making the most of 18–20 hours of daylight.

Everywhere you go in Antarctica, you are surrounded with endless opportunities to capture images on camera. Whether getting up close to seals by zodiac, walking through penguin colonies or onboard Scenic Eclipse II cruising past spectacular glaciers, be sure to have your camera ready to capture these amazing moments.

For an additional cost, today could be the day you take your seat in our custom-built submarine^ and delve below the ocean waters in a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. You could also choose to soar above in one of two on board helicopters^ for a unique view of this spectacular region.

Remarkable wildlife encounters await during your time exploring Antarctica.

Eight species of penguins can be found in Antarctic and the sub-Antarctic region, with around twelve million penguins living on the Peninsula. Going on shore to witness a penguin colony is an unforgettable experience. Close your eyes to get the full experience as you approach. Smell is the first sense to be awakened, with the not-so-sweet odor announcing that you are nearby. Hear their mighty calls getting louder as you get closer to shore. Watch on as they go about their day, clumsily waddling along and interacting with each other. Penguins that you may see on the Peninsula include Adélie, Chinstrap, Gentoo, and the very rare Emperor penguins.

Whales are another powerful creature that you may encounter during your voyage, and you'll find their gentle movement calming and impactful. Feel the anticipation of the first sighting of the blow of water shooting into the air, to finding where the second come from, and seeing their giant body surface for another breath. It could be the back of a minke, the hump on a humpback or the dorsal fin of an Orca. You may be on Scenic Eclipse II, watching from the comfort of the Observation Lounge, in a Zodiac with an experienced Discovery Team member, or lucky enough to experience this from their level in a kayak or stand-up paddleboard.

Antarctica is also a birdwatcher's paradise, drawing more than 40 different species. Keep your eyes peeled for wandering albatrosses, shearwaters, giant petrels, storm petrels, blue-eyed shags, diving petrels, cormorants, sheathbills, skuas, gulls and terns.

Ice is one of the first things that comes to mind when you think of Antarctica, but you can soon find out that it is much more than an endless white landscape. Portal Point is a potential landing site. Previously a British refuge hut, you can get the opportunity to walk up to see panoramic views from the snow-covered mountains surrounding you, looking over the ice filled ocean back to the ship that made all this possible. Sit down in the snow and take a moment to be still.

Lemaire Channel is an iconic location in Antarctica, so photogenic it was nicknamed ‘Kodak Alley’. If your voyage is able to weave through the channel, make sure you set your alarm and embrace the cool air on the Observation Terrace. Pass through the 11-kilometre-long channel, just 700 meters wide at its narrowest point, and be amazed at the dramatic rocky mountains rising beside the ship and icebergs passing by close enough to see them glowing blue under the surface.

Nestled in the South Shetland Islands archipelago, Deception Island is full of history, and is also one of the only places in the world that ships can sail directly into the center of a submerged caldera of an active volcano. Scenic Eclipse II can squeeze through a rocky gap into the peaceful waters of the horseshoe-shaped harbor. The island is also home to a few small scientific outposts and hundreds of thousands of chinstrap penguins. Walk along the ash-covered beaches.

Standing at the entrance of Fournier Bay is Mount Francis, the tallest mountain in Antarctica. There may be the chance to visit a working scientific base and discuss life in these harsh conditions with the staff. You can also explore the remnants of a derelict whaling station and a vacant British base or climb to the rim of a volcanic crater.

Enjoy the opportunity to visit areas alive with wildlife such as penguins, seals, and whales. If conditions are favorable, you may cross the Antarctic Circle at latitude 66°33’ South.

Wherever your voyage takes you, you can have countless “pinch me" occasions when the scenery is so impressive, you'll have to be reminded that this dream came true. Congratulations, you have made it to Antarctica.

Be sure to pack your swimmers. For many, the polar plunge is a once in a lifetime opportunity, and a rite of passage for people on an expedition to Antarctica. Once throughout your voyage, Scenic Eclipse II can stop, and the team can set up the marina ready for the brave people who want to jump into the freezing Antarctic waters.

Excitement can spread through the Discovery Yacht, and you can start hearing the contagious nervous laughter. As you stand on the edge ready to jump, you can start to feel the adrenaline rush while your second guessing whether this was a good idea. When you jump, the moment before you hit the water and feel like it goes forever, just before you feel the cold water travelling up your body. This chilly dip can be invigorating, exciting, and surprisingly refreshing.

If you're skipping the polar plunge, make sure you find a good viewing location with a cup of hot chocolate as you feel the chills of everyone coming out of the waters.

Day 18-19: At Sea

  • Ship
  • 2 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 2 Dinners
Farewell your adventure in the icy lands and set sail heading north to the continent of South America. Share memories of your experiences with new-found friends.

Cruising the Drake Passage back to the tip of South America, there is plenty of time to indulge in the ultra-luxury of your Discovery Yacht and reflect on the magic of the Southern Ocean and the life that calls it home.

Day 20: Ushuaia, Argentina | Buenos Aires | Disembark

  • 1 Breakfast
Your voyage ends this morning as you farewell the crew. Disembark after breakfast to fly to Buenos Aires, taking away memories of a truly unforgettable experience.

Ship/Hotel

Scenic Eclipse II

Buenos Aires - Hotels

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Per person starting at
$64,290
Rates are dynamic and fluctuate based on capacity. Contact us for a specific quote.
Rates are subject to change without notice. Book early to get the best rate.
Select a Date
D Verandah
344-366 sqft. Verandah Suites, located on Deck 5, provide a spacious and comfortable introduction to ocean cruising with the finest appointments and amenities including a luxury king-size bed, separate lounge area, en-suite bathroom with shower, butler service.
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DA Deluxe Verandah
344-366 sqft. Deluxe Verandah Suites located on Deck 5, provide a spacious and comfortable introduction to ocean cruising with the finest appointments and amenities including a luxury king-size bed, separate lounge area, en-suite bathroom with shower, butler service.
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DB Deluxe Verandah
344-366 sqft. Deluxe Verandah Suites located on Deck 5, provide a spacious and comfortable introduction to ocean cruising with the finest appointments and amenities including a luxury king-size bed, separate lounge area, en-suite bathroom with shower, butler service.
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DD Grand Deluxe Verandah
409-430 sqft. Choose a Grand Deluxe Verandah Suite, located on Deck 5, which provides additional room to relax. Amenities include a luxury king-size bed, separate lounge area, en-suite bathroom with shower, butler service.
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C Verandah
344-366 sqft. Verandah Suites, located on Deck 6, provide a spacious and comfortable introduction to ocean cruising with the finest appointments and amenities including a luxury king-size bed, separate lounge area, en-suite bathroom with shower, butler service.
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CA Deluxe Verandah
344-366 sqft. Deluxe Verandah Suites located on Deck 6, provide a spacious and comfortable introduction to ocean cruising with the finest appointments and amenities including a luxury king-size bed, separate lounge area, en-suite bathroom with shower, butler service.
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CD Grand Deluxe Verandah
409-430 sqft. Choose a Grand Deluxe Verandah Suite, located on Deck 6, which provides additional room to relax. Amenities include a luxury king-size bed, separate lounge area, en-suite bathroom with shower, butler service.
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GP Grand Panorama
344-366 sqft. Verandah Suites, located on Decks 5, 6, 7 or 8, provide a spacious and comfortable introduction to ocean cruising with the finest appointments and amenities including a luxury king-size bed, separate lounge area, en-suite bathroom with shower, butler service.
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B Verandah
344-366 sqft. Verandah Suites, located on Decks 5, 6, 7 or 8, provide a spacious and comfortable introduction to ocean cruising with the finest appointments and amenities including a luxury king-size bed, separate lounge area, en-suite bathroom with shower, butler service.
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BA Deluxe Verandah
344-366 sqft. Deluxe Verandah Suites located on Decks 6, 7 or 8 provide a spacious and comfortable introduction to ocean cruising with the finest appointments and amenities including a luxury king-size bed, separate lounge area, en-suite bathroom with shower, butler service.
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BD Grand Deluxe Verandah
409-430 sqft. Choose a Grand Deluxe Verandah Suite, which provides additional room to relax. Amenities include a luxury king-size bed, separate lounge area, en-suite bathroom with shower, butler service.
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A Verandah
344-366 sqft. Verandah Suites, located on Decks 5, 6, 7 or 8, provide a spacious and comfortable introduction to ocean cruising with the finest appointments and amenities including a luxury king-size bed, separate lounge area, en-suite bathroom with shower, butler service.
Select a Date
AA Deluxe Verandah
344-366 sqft. Deluxe Verandah Suites located on Decks 6, 7 or 8 provide a spacious and comfortable introduction to ocean cruising with the finest appointments and amenities including a luxury king-size bed, separate lounge area, en-suite bathroom with shower, butler service.
Select a Date
AD Grand Deluxe Verandah
409-430 sqft. Choose a Grand Deluxe Verandah Suite, which provides additional room to relax. Amenities include a luxury king-size bed, separate lounge area, en-suite bathroom with shower, butler service.
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S Spa
495-538 sqft. Located on the higher decks, luxurious Spa Suites include a luxurious king-sized bed, spa bath, steam shower, butler service, and additional features and services that will
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P Panorama
1,184sqft. Located at the front of the yacht on Deck 8 these opulent suites feature spacious curved terraces, a king-sized bed, full bath with steam shower and additional features and services.
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SA Spa
495-538 sqft. Located on the higher decks, luxurious Spa Suites include a luxurious king-sized bed, spa bath, steam shower, butler service, and additional features and services
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SB Spa
495-538 sqft. Located on the higher decks, luxurious Spa Suites include a luxurious king-sized bed, spa bath, steam shower, butler service, and additional features and services
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OP Owner's Penthouse
2,099sqft. The oversized Owner’s Penthouse Suites are the ultimate indulgence. Located on Deck 9 and elegantly appointed with spacious curved terraces featuring a private Jacuzzi and the best views onboard, you will never want to leave.

Notes

All rates are quoted in USD and represent cost per person, based on double occupancy.
Included
  • 19 Breakfasts, 17 Lunches, 18 Dinners
  • 19 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Wifi
  • Porterage
  • Port taxes and charges
  • All tipping and gratuities
  • Complimentary beverages
  • Engaging lectures and education program with on board experts
  • Scenic Discovery excursions by Zodiac
  • Complimentary expedition parka and water bottle, plus use of special polar boots
  • Your choice of Scenic Freechoice activities
  • Included night in Buenos Aires
Excluded
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Buenos Aires Hotel tax (up to $2 per person/night) - paid at checkout
  • Select drinks including a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, champagnes and spirits are not included in the package and may be available at an additional charge
  • Passport or Visa fees
  • All travel invoice risks. We strongly recommend you to take out comprehensive travel insurance with a reputable insurance company to cover you against risks associated with your tour. Including cover for loss of luggage, medical expense, and cost and expenses incurred due to cancellations, delays, or other disruptions

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The trip might have been the absolute best of our lifetime (thus far). We particularly want to commend our guide Peter in the Guilin area-he was so incredibly attentive, energetic, enthusiastic-and absolutely dedicated to ensuring that our meals were 100% vegetarian.
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