WED, 16 OCT 24– BUENOS AIRES

This morning you are met at the Buenos Aires International Airport and transferred to the hotel.

In the afternoon we join our guide for a 2 hour walking tour, “The Forgotten Language of Trees”. Trees were the natural shelter in the pampas. They provided food and medicine and the natives learned to interact with them and live a life in harmony. In the Plaza San Martin, we not only learn the “Forgotten Language of Trees”, but we learn about the history and events that took place and helped shape the city of Buenos Aires. 

THU, 17 OCT 24 – BUENOS AIRES

Buenos Aires is cosmopolitan; European in appearance, but a fusion of nations: Spanish, Italian, British, French, German, Central European, Jewish, Arabian, Greek, Japanese and more recently, Chinese and Korean immigrants. Past grandeur and wealth, migration, and cultural impact is reflected in the diverse neighbourhoods of Buenos Aires. The Four Balconies of Buenos Aires is an exclusive visit in which your guide uses four parks and plazas to bring alive the city’s history, its everyday life and the peculiar psychology of the "porteño", the inhabitants of Buenos Aires. 

In the afternoon we leave the hustle and bustle of Buenos Aires behind and enter the ecological reserve, Costanera Sur Nature Reserve. We explore this 350 hectare reserve that was once a landfill but is now filled with abundant pampa and over 200 species of birds. We may also see river turtles, iguanas and nutria (otters).  (B)

FRI. 18 OCT 24 – IBERA WETLANDS

This morning fly either to Corrientes or Posadas where we are met and transferred to Rincon del Socorro, a former cattle ranch turned nature reserve on the edge of the Ibera Marshes, home to over 350 bird species and wildlife such as capybara and caiman. (BD)

SAT, 19 OCT 24 – IBERA WETLANDS

The Estancia Rincon del Socorro, located in a natural paradise, was the headquarters of a former cattle ranch on the edge of the Ibera Marshlands. Through the efforts of American Douglas Thompkins, eco-philanthropist, this nature reserve was bought in 1999 by The Conservation Land Trust (now Rewilding Argentina). They have established environmental, sustainable and re-introduction programs that are managed by biologists and veterinarians. Guests and visitors are provided with a good understanding of the local ecosystem and an appreciation of the importance of the wetlands and savannah landscapes.

Activities include tours of the estancia (walking or horseback), a boat ride through the marshes and a nocturnal safari drive. The birdlife is abundant on the property. We may wake up to a greater rhea munching on grass outside our room or spend time admiring herons, cormorants, egrets, and other birds found a short walk from the main house. 

Horseback riding is an integral part of the Rincon’s program, since the chances of seeing wildlife increase immensely on horseback rather than on foot. The horses are available for all riding abilities and the riding tack and guiding are excellent. Most rides are about 1.5-2 hours but longer rides and night rides can be requested.

The boat tour of Ibera Marshes is a highlight of our time here. Flowering aquatic plants and fauna such as Black Caiman, Roseate Spoonbills; Maguari Storks; Whistling Herons; Anhinga; Marsh Eagles; Painted Turtles; are abundant. If we are lucky, we may see the rare marsh deer which is in danger of extinction. (BLD)

SUN, 20 OCT 24 – IBERA WETLANDS 

Enjoy the last few hours at Ibera Wetlands before it is time to head to the airport for your evening flight to Buenos Aires. (BL)

MON, 21 OCT 24 –BUENOS AIRES

A day to explore Buenos Aires independently. (B)

TUE, 22 OCT 24 – PUERTO DESEADO

An early morning flight to Comodoro Rivadavia where we are met and transferred to Puerto Deseado. (BBL)

WED, 23 OCT 24 –PUERTO DESEADO:ISLA PINGUINO 

In the morning we have an exciting adventure by boat to Isla Pinquino, a marine park. We travel about 25 km to the island. En-route dolphins may accompany our boat.

Our exploration of the island begins with a 20 minute walk to and through a large colony of Magellanic Penguins. At the top of the island we can see an abandoned lighthouse that dates back to 1903. Originally powered by kerosene it now lights the way for sailors with photo voltaic panels. There are spectacular views of the marine park from here. We then descend into a small canyon to observe Rockhopper Penguins. Our final destination is a small creek that houses a colony of sea lions, mainly males, and with the possibility of seeing elephant seals. (BSN)

THU, 24 OCT 24 – PUERTO DESEADO: CAMP DARWIN

“...I don't think I have ever seen a place more remote from the world than this rocky crevice in the middle of the immense plain.” Charles Darwin.

In 1833, Charles Darwin choose this site to camp and capture its richness in drawings and his subsequent theory of evolution. "The rich history of the estuary's canyons, vast Patagonian landscapes, and diverse flora and fauna make up the Intangible Natural Reserve of the Wanted Estuary.

After lunch we continue along the canyon to the estuary. In 1912, a pier was operational here, facilitating the shipment of wool produced by the local ranches. These goods would arrive at the pier via carts, embarking on journeys lasting several weeks. We also learn about the tragic history of the Rebel Patagonia that took place in this area between 1920 and 1922. (BL)

FRI, 25 OCT 24 – BAHIA BUSTAMANTE

This morning the group will visit Bird Island inside the Ría Deseado Natural Reserve. The excursion lasts 2 hours, and you will be able to see groups of dolphins, a great variety of birds such as Antarctic pigeons, black and southern oystercatchers, gray gulls, crested ducks, gray gulls, black oystercatchers and witch herons.

In the afternoon transfer to Bahia Bustamante.(BSND) 

SAT, 26 OCT 24 – BAHIA BUSTAMANTE:  MALASPINA COVE

Today we cruise this serene cove towards the Vernacci Islands, renowned for their bustling wildlife including a breeding population of 4,000 sea lions, a seasonal congregation of 100,000 Magellan penguins (active from October to March), and vibrant colonies of marine birds. Our journeys are timed to coincide with high tide hours for optimal passage and favorable weather conditions. (BLD)

SUN, 27 OCT 24 – PUERTO MADRYN

This morning we embark by 4x4 and on foot for a visit to the Petrified Forest. The group delves into a journey through time as we explore the ancient remnants of petrified trees and wood, frozen in time for an astonishing 60 million years. We will also be able to observe all kinds of Steppe wildlife (lesser rheas, guanacos, maras, and more).

After this visit we begin our journey to Puerto Madryn. (BBL)

MON, 28 OCT 24 – PUERTO MADRYN

We explore the Peninsula Valdés, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This expansive marine reserve boasts one of the world's largest colonies of Magellanic penguins and elephant seals. Additionally, it teems with sea lions, killer whales, and a diverse array of marine and terrestrial creatures.

The group sets out on an expedition to observe the remarkable southern right whales in their native environment. These majestic creatures are found from May to December for the purpose of mating and giving birth. (B)

TUES, 29 OCT 24 – BUENOS AIRES

About mid-day fly from Trelew Airport to Buenos Aires. Reminder of the afternoon for you to relax or explore Buenos Aires.

Tonight the group concludes the tour of Argentine wildlife with an evening that symbolizes the passionate side of Buenos Aires…a tango and dinner show at La Ventana Barrio de Tango in San Telmo. A step into this restored historic tenement offers a timeless journey through the cultural history of Buenos Aires. The authentic ambiance is the backdrop for an ensemble of 32 artists, including two tango orchestras, a repertoire of folk melodies, and an array of talented dancers and singers. (BD)

WED, 30 OCT 24 – DEPARTURE

Today you are transferred to the Buenos Aires airport for your journey home. (B)