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ToursAntarctica & the ArcticAntarcticaSouth Shetland Islands

South Shetland Islands Tours & Trips

81 South Shetland Islands trips. Tours from 31 tour companies. 51 reviews. 4.8/5 avg rating.

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Realm of Penguins & Icebergs: Antarctic Peninsula
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Realm of Penguins & Icebergs: Antarctic Peninsula

By Poseidon Expeditions
premier
4.8/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Ship Cruise
Why we love them
Their ice-breaking cruise liners take travelers truly off of the beaten path and into the very heart of the polar realms.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Antarctic Peninsula, Shetland Islands, Ushuaia

Highlights

  • Fantastic rugged mountains, cascading glaciers, crystalline icebergs and clear waters abounding with whales and seals.
  • Countless penguins and endemic Antarctic birdlife.
  • Possibility for kayaking and camping under the southern stars in a world of ice and snow.

Themes

Nature & Wildlife, Small Ship Cruise

What travelers are saying

"Best vacation so far!! Loved everything, especially highly professional team, that organised the whole trip super safe and on a highest level, the crew that does the cleaning and provides the food literally 24/7, the expedition team was super and the program, lectures, communication - everything couldn’t be better. I miss the cruise! And the best part of course the wild nature, animals. It’s a pity there are strict rules nowadays due to the flu and we couldn’t get closer, but it’s the right thing to protect the nature. Will be back for sure!"

Trip dates & details
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-25%$9,695
12 days From$7,234
Price updated 1 year+ ago
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Quest for the Antarctic Circle
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Quest for the Antarctic Circle

By G Adventures
preferred
4.8/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Ship Cruise
Why we love them
They’ve partnered with well-known names like National Geographic and the Jane Goodall Institute to offer unique experiences unavailable elsewhere.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Antarctic Peninsula, Shetland Islands, South Shetland Islands, Ushuaia

Highlights

  • Spend seven full days exploring the antarctic peninsula
  • Go farther south than most have ever gone
  • Spend time on deck searching for whales and watching soaring albatross
  • Get up close and personal with a variety of penguin species
  • Discover the intricacies of the antarctic region through our on-board lecture program

Themes

Cultural, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing, Small Ship Cruise, Trekking & Expeditions

What travelers are saying

"We spent two wonderful weeks touring several of the best destinations in Portugal & Spain with a group of 16 people. Our guide (Fredy) was from Spain and intimately familiar with the region, including its rich history, attractions, and food/beverages. The tour was well-paced using a combinations of private vehicles (small buses and cabs), trains, and an airplane ride as well as a fair amount of walking to get around these two beautiful countries. We extended our stay in Lisbon to see more attractions and took a side trip to Fatima, Obidos, and Nazare that was also excellent. Would have liked to have a bit more time in a couple of the cities, but we'll just have to plan another trip!"

Trip dates & details
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--7%$9,516
14 days From$10,199
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Antarctica Classic
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Antarctica Classic

By G Adventures
preferred
4.8/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Ship Cruise
Why we love them
They’ve partnered with well-known names like National Geographic and the Jane Goodall Institute to offer unique experiences unavailable elsewhere.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Antarctic Peninsula, Shetland Islands, South Shetland Islands, Ushuaia

Highlights

  • Set foot on antarctica — the world's least-visited continent
  • Watch majestic albatross soar by the ship while crossing the drake passage
  • Opt to brave the chill of a polar plunge
  • Witness immense icebergs and magnificent glaciers
  • Have your questions answered by antarctica experts

Themes

Cultural, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing, Small Ship Cruise, Trekking & Expeditions

What travelers are saying

"We spent two wonderful weeks touring several of the best destinations in Portugal & Spain with a group of 16 people. Our guide (Fredy) was from Spain and intimately familiar with the region, including its rich history, attractions, and food/beverages. The tour was well-paced using a combinations of private vehicles (small buses and cabs), trains, and an airplane ride as well as a fair amount of walking to get around these two beautiful countries. We extended our stay in Lisbon to see more attractions and took a side trip to Fatima, Obidos, and Nazare that was also excellent. Would have liked to have a bit more time in a couple of the cities, but we'll just have to plan another trip!"

Trip dates & details
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--6%$7,187
11 days From$7,599
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All South Shetland Islands, expedition cruises, self guided adventures and vacation packages. Find the best guided and expert planned vacation and holiday packages. Read more about South Shetland Islands

Spirit of Shackleton
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Spirit of Shackleton

By G Adventures
preferred
4.8/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Ship Cruise
Why we love them
They’ve partnered with well-known names like National Geographic and the Jane Goodall Institute to offer unique experiences unavailable elsewhere.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Antarctic Peninsula, Georgia, Shetland Islands, South Shetland Islands, Ushuaia

Highlights

  • Meet hardy locals and spot unique wildlife in the falkland islands
  • Explore abandoned whaling stations and visit shackleton’s grave
  • Walk quietly amongst king penguins and watch them surf onto the beach
  • Learn about the environment and ecology from industry experts
  • Spot whales and seals while cruising past icebergs aboard zodiacs
Show more

Themes

Cultural, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing, Small Ship Cruise, Trekking & Expeditions

What travelers are saying

"We spent two wonderful weeks touring several of the best destinations in Portugal & Spain with a group of 16 people. Our guide (Fredy) was from Spain and intimately familiar with the region, including its rich history, attractions, and food/beverages. The tour was well-paced using a combinations of private vehicles (small buses and cabs), trains, and an airplane ride as well as a fair amount of walking to get around these two beautiful countries. We extended our stay in Lisbon to see more attractions and took a side trip to Fatima, Obidos, and Nazare that was also excellent. Would have liked to have a bit more time in a couple of the cities, but we'll just have to plan another trip!"

Trip dates & details
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-26%$24,569
21 days From$18,199
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Polar Circle Quest - 12 days
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Polar Circle Quest - 12 days

By On The Go Tours
none
4.7/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

South Shetland Islands, Ushuaia

Highlights

  • The Polar Circle - Cross the Polar Circle, also known as the Antarctic Circle, where you'll visit Detaille Island – a common goal for explorers
  • Ushuaia – The starting point of your expedition cruise to Antarctica, this busy Argentine port city is the southernmost city in the world and a stunning place to spend a night at the start and end of your cruise to the Antarctic Peninsula
  • Beagle Channel – Set sail along the famous Beagle Channel and scenic Mackinlay Pass from Ushuaia as you begin your Antarctic adventure, passing by spectacular snow-capped peaks and colonies of penguins and fur seals gathered on rocky outcrops
  • Drake Passage – A historically challenging channel of water which marks the location of the Antarctic Convergence, where the warmer waters of the north meet the cold polar waters of the south resulting in incredible biodiversity of marine life
  • The South Shetland Islands – A crucial stop on any Antarctic expedition, this spectacular archipelago is made up of islands, islets and rock outcrops, each with their own population of penguins and seals with plenty of opportunity to spot marine life offshore too
Show more

Themes

Cultural, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife

What travelers are saying

"First time we (mom and daughter) have done a tour and first time with on the go tours. What a special trip we had doing the 13 day Casablanca to Essaouira Morocco tour (26 Nov - 6 Dec 2023). We started the first 8 days doing the totally Morocco tour and the last few days at our own pace with down time in Essaouira. Jamal our guide led the tour from start to finish and took us safely on a culture filled journey. His knowledge of the country, it’s history and people was informative and inspiring. Every request was “no problem” and delivered with a smile and happy demeanour. Everything in Morrocco was “no problem” and we felt safe and looked after. We were driven in a comfortable coach with enough stops along the way to not feel long by our competent driver Suleman. The hotels, Riad and Dar were extremely comfortable with exceptional service. We would not have had the same experience travelling on our own, we felt as though we truly experienced Morocco. Everything was a highlight for us and we will definitely book another on the go tour in the future. If you wanting to see true Morocco we would strongly recommend doing this tour."

Trip dates & details
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-41%$13,142
12 days From$7,705
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Classic Antarctica - 10 days
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Classic Antarctica - 10 days

By On The Go Tours
none
4.7/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

South Shetland Islands, Ushuaia

Highlights

  • Ushuaia – The starting point of your expedition cruise to Antarctica, this busy Argentine port city is the southernmost city in the world and a stunning place to spend a night at the start and end of your cruise to the Antarctic Peninsula
  • Beagle Channel – Set sail along the famous Beagle Channel and scenic Mackinlay Pass from Ushuaia as you begin your Antarctic adventure, passing by spectacular snow-capped peaks and colonies of penguins and fur seals gathered on rocky outcrops
  • Drake Passage – A historically challenging channel of water which marks the location of the Antarctic Convergence, where the warmer waters of the north meet the cold polar waters of the south resulting in incredible biodiversity of marine life
  • The South Shetland Islands – A crucial stop on any Antarctic expedition, this spectacular archipelago is made up of islands, islets and rock outcrops, each with their own population of penguins and seals with plenty of opportunity to spot marine life offshore too
  • Antarctic Peninsula – The northernmost point of the continent and a spectacular location for a shore landing with jagged mountain peaks, glaciers and an abundance of wildlife

Themes

Cultural, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife

What travelers are saying

"First time we (mom and daughter) have done a tour and first time with on the go tours. What a special trip we had doing the 13 day Casablanca to Essaouira Morocco tour (26 Nov - 6 Dec 2023). We started the first 8 days doing the totally Morocco tour and the last few days at our own pace with down time in Essaouira. Jamal our guide led the tour from start to finish and took us safely on a culture filled journey. His knowledge of the country, it’s history and people was informative and inspiring. Every request was “no problem” and delivered with a smile and happy demeanour. Everything in Morrocco was “no problem” and we felt safe and looked after. We were driven in a comfortable coach with enough stops along the way to not feel long by our competent driver Suleman. The hotels, Riad and Dar were extremely comfortable with exceptional service. We would not have had the same experience travelling on our own, we felt as though we truly experienced Morocco. Everything was a highlight for us and we will definitely book another on the go tour in the future. If you wanting to see true Morocco we would strongly recommend doing this tour."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
-47%$8,275
10 days From$4,345
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Solar Eclipse & Antarctica Explorer 2021 - 20 Days
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Solar Eclipse & Antarctica Explorer 2021 - 20 Days

By On The Go Tours
none
4.7/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

South Shetland Islands, Ushuaia

Highlights

  • Total solar eclipse - witness the incredible sight of a total solar eclipse on the 4 December 2021 as we position ourselves along the central axis of this incredible spectacle
  • South Georgia - wander the abandoned streets of Grytviken, spot lumbering elephant seals and watch giant colonies of king penguins huddle together
  • Falkland Islands - stroll down the streets of quintessentially British Stanley and discover wildlife including penguins and sea lions
  • South Shetland Islands - discover this remote cluster of islands, home to a variety of wildlife, volcanic warm waters and snow-covered mountains
  • Drake Passage - cross this historically challenging channel of water which marks the location of the Antarctic Convergence and is home to a rich variety of marine life
Show more

Themes

Cultural, Nature & Wildlife

What travelers are saying

"First time we (mom and daughter) have done a tour and first time with on the go tours. What a special trip we had doing the 13 day Casablanca to Essaouira Morocco tour (26 Nov - 6 Dec 2023). We started the first 8 days doing the totally Morocco tour and the last few days at our own pace with down time in Essaouira. Jamal our guide led the tour from start to finish and took us safely on a culture filled journey. His knowledge of the country, it’s history and people was informative and inspiring. Every request was “no problem” and delivered with a smile and happy demeanour. Everything in Morrocco was “no problem” and we felt safe and looked after. We were driven in a comfortable coach with enough stops along the way to not feel long by our competent driver Suleman. The hotels, Riad and Dar were extremely comfortable with exceptional service. We would not have had the same experience travelling on our own, we felt as though we truly experienced Morocco. Everything was a highlight for us and we will definitely book another on the go tour in the future. If you wanting to see true Morocco we would strongly recommend doing this tour."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
20 days From$11,465
Price updated 1 year+ ago
More
Cruise Antarctica & Solar Eclipse 2021 - 15 Days
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Cruise Antarctica & Solar Eclipse 2021 - 15 Days

By On The Go Tours
none
4.7/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

South Shetland Islands, Ushuaia

Highlights

  • Total solar eclipse - witness the incredible sight of a total solar eclipse on the 4 December 2021 as we position ourselves along the central axis of this incredible spectacle
  • Ocean Victory - spend your days at sea aboard our expedition cruise ship with amenities including a swimming pool, several restaurants, gym facilities and an observation lounge
  • South Georgia - wander the abandoned streets of Grytviken, spot lumbering elephant seals and watch giant colonies of king penguins huddle together
  • South Shetland Islands - discover this remote cluster of islands, home to a variety of wildlife, volcanic warm waters and snow-covered mountains
  • Ushuaia - begin and end your trip in the 'city at the end of the world' and opt to explore the incredible scenery of Tierra del Fuego
Show more

Themes

Cultural, Nature & Wildlife

What travelers are saying

"First time we (mom and daughter) have done a tour and first time with on the go tours. What a special trip we had doing the 13 day Casablanca to Essaouira Morocco tour (26 Nov - 6 Dec 2023). We started the first 8 days doing the totally Morocco tour and the last few days at our own pace with down time in Essaouira. Jamal our guide led the tour from start to finish and took us safely on a culture filled journey. His knowledge of the country, it’s history and people was informative and inspiring. Every request was “no problem” and delivered with a smile and happy demeanour. Everything in Morrocco was “no problem” and we felt safe and looked after. We were driven in a comfortable coach with enough stops along the way to not feel long by our competent driver Suleman. The hotels, Riad and Dar were extremely comfortable with exceptional service. We would not have had the same experience travelling on our own, we felt as though we truly experienced Morocco. Everything was a highlight for us and we will definitely book another on the go tour in the future. If you wanting to see true Morocco we would strongly recommend doing this tour."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
15 days From$14,375
Price updated 1 year+ ago
More
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South Shetland Islands Reviews & Ratings

4.8/5  Excellent
51  Reviews
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Excellent
18
Great
2
Average
1
Disappointing
0
Terrible
0
A

Anonymous

Mar 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

Antarctica, Falklands and South Georgia

18 day trip with Quark Expeditions on the Ocean Diamond from Uschuaia to the Falklands, South Georgia and the Antarctic Peninsula with landings by Zodiac in remote...

Tour:  Falklands, South Georgia and Antarctica: Explorers and Kings

A

Anonymous

Jul 2017

Provided byExodus Travels

ANTARCTICA, FALKLANDS & SOUTH GEORGIA

Holiday of a lifetime, which will never be forgotten.  Had an absolutely amazing time from start to finish. This holiday was beyond our expectations! King Peng...

Tour:  Falklands, South Georgia and Antarctica: Explorers and Kings

A

Anonymous

Jul 2017

Provided byExodus Travels

Antarctica, Falklands & South Georgia

It was the most wonderful experience and I wouldn't have missed it for the world. Sheer excitement. There was more than one inspirational moment and I couldn't c...

Tour:  Falklands, South Georgia and Antarctica: Explorers and Kings

A

Anonymous

Jul 2017

Provided byExodus Travels

ANTARCTICA, FALKLANDS & SOUTH GEORGIA

Fantastic - great photographic trip.    A lot of days at sea though - so an interest in sea-birds useful!  South Georgia should be a must ...

Tour:  Falklands, South Georgia and Antarctica: Explorers and Kings

A

Anonymous

Feb 2017

Provided byExodus Travels

Trip of a lifetime!

An amazing experience: history in the Falklands; huge penguin colonies in South Georgia and beautiful ice and whales in Antarctica. I had high expectations before th...

Tour:  Falklands, South Georgia and Antarctica: Explorers and Kings

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Top South Shetland Islands Travel Companies
Poseidon Expeditions Reviews
G Adventures Reviews
Explore! Reviews
Exodus Travels Reviews
Quark Expeditions Reviews
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Gate 1 Travel Reviews

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