Bahia Bustamante Lodge is a paradise waiting to be discovered. From its magnificent white sandy beaches and crystal-clear water, framed by red rocks reaching inland, to its moonscapes of great deserts, it is a marine and
earthly paradise inhabited by a great number of birds and mammals including Magellan Penguins. Two full days are dedicated for exploration via a variety of excursions sure to excite any lover of nature and wildlife.
Special Note: Any guests travelling with Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC) or CPAP breathing machines should read further below for airline stipulations with regards to bringing this equipment on tour.
This program limited to a maximum of 8 guests. It is suitable for guests of all ages who are generally in good physical condition and have some (basic) hiking experience. Activities at the lodge may include uneven or hilly terrain, with some steeper, rocky stretches that would require good eye, hand and foot coordination. Activity options at the lodge do not have are not chosen in advance.
DAY 1 – January 26, 2025
Disembark the ship in Santos, where a tour representative will meet and accompany you to the airport for a scheduled flight to Buenos Aires, a city that never fails to impress.
Upon arrival at the Ezeiza International airport in Buenos Aires, proceed through Customs and Immigration and collect your bags before transferring to your hotel.
After settling in, enjoy the passionate melodies of tango during a memorable performance while dining at the Rojo Tango Cabaret. After the show, you will return to the hotel.
DAY 2 – January 27, 2025
Meet your guide in the lobby of the hotel and transfer to the airport to check-in for a flight from Buenos Aires to Trelew.
On arrival, take a 3-hour drive to Bahia Bustamante Lodge.
Bahia Bustamante is a small, family-run project, a private wildlife sanctuary and Eco Lodge set in remote Patagonia by the sea. Coined “Argentina’s Private (and Secret) answer to the Galapagos” by the New York Times, this Patagonian ranch is located in Patagonia Austral National Park and the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve “Patagonia Azul” in addition to being an area of importance for the conservation of birds.
Their main goal is to protect this piece of paradise and share this incredible nature with guests from all over the world, aiming to promote environmental conservation and raise awareness on the protection of this fragile ecosystem.
This unique program is an invitation to experience the authentic Patagonia, surrounded by an amazing diversity of marine and land wildlife (penguins, sea lions, seabirds, guanacos, rheas and more).
Founded in the 1950s as a seaweed settlement, more than 400 seaweed workers and their families lived here. There
was a church, a school, a police department, and everything this small community needed.
The Lodge itself is quite simple. Maintaining a balance with nature, the houses of the first settlers were reconditioned to receive guests, preserving their austerity and simplicity, keeping alive the spirit of those who arrived there more than 60 years ago. Your Sea Cabin will have 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, a living room, mini bar and terrace facing the sea.
The common area of the lodge maintains a typical Patagonian atmosphere. The restaurant features regional cuisine, based on its own production of seaweed, lamb, fish and seasfood and fruits and vegetables from the garden. There is a bar and living area ideal for relaxing and enjoying grand views of the sea or for Happy Hour drinks before dinner. There is also a library with a variety of books, bird guides and magazines and a Historical Room featuring a collection of memorabilia showcasing the history of the property. Finally, there is also a games room with a pool table, table tennis and board games.
Bahía Bustamante Lodge offers a great number of activities, and the schedule runs on nature! Each day’s selection
is planned and communicated the previous night, according to weather conditions and tide tables. All are shared with the group and are carried out within the property. You will be able to choose what you would like to do once the list is presented each evening for the following day. Activities are chosen individually so you don’t have to choose what the rest of the group is doing.
Below represents a list of the activities that may be presented. Activities are subject to weather and tidal conditions and the below list is subject to change at the discretion of the lodge management. Timings below are approximate and also subject to change. When possible, more than one activity can be taken in a day.
BOAT TRIP (3 to 4 hours approx.)
Close encounters with sea lion and seabird colonies. Navigation along a quiet cove towards the Vernacci Islands,
which are home to sea lions (4000 animals during breeding season), Magellan Penguins (100,000 – season: October
to March) and colorful marine bird colonies. Boat trip is done during high tide hours and with the right weather
conditions.
THE PENINSULA (4 hours approx.)
Visit a peninsula with sandy beaches, crystal clear water and reddish rocks. Perfect for biking, trekking, or touring in
4×4 trucks, not only to wonderful beaches, but also to sites of great archeological and geological importance.
Several natural swimming pools are formed in between the rocks, and these are great fun for swimming with a view
to the open ocean. The peninsula is a world of wonders to enjoy.
PETRIFIED FOREST (4/5 hours approx.)
A 4×4 ride combined with a moderate trekking to the Petrified Forest, located 18 miles away from the Lodge within
the limits of their land. The Petrified Forest is a journey to the past. Exactly some 60 million years ago expressed in
petrified trees and pieces of wood. During the visit, you will be able to observe all kinds of steppe wildlife too (lesser rheas, guanacos, maras, and more).
PENGUIN ISLAND (3 hours approx.)
Only 15 minutes away from the Lodge this island is home to a colony of Magellan Penguins. During low tide hours, reach the island on foot, having the amazing experience of watching penguins, chicks, and nests all around you. Along the road to the island, you will also be able to observe all kinds of steppe wildlife.
ARISTIZABAL CAPE (4 to 5 hours approx.)
A 4×4 drive to reach this amazing Cape, an important rocky point of imposing landscape, open ocean views and
isolated beaches. On the journey you will come across diverse wildlife such as: lesser rheas, maras, grey foxes,
armadillos and more. Once you reach the Aristizabal Lighthouse, take a short trek to watch the sea lions, which usually
rest in different spots around the Cape.
ROCK CANYON (4 to 5 hours approx.)
A beautiful trek through the canyon, following the path of a dry river until you reach the ocean. Walk
alongside immense walls 15 meters/49 feet tall, formed by Jurassic rocks from the Mesozoic era. Some amazing tide pools are great fun for swimming and photo opportunities. You will also visit a native archeological site. The canyon is protected from windy conditions, which makes it ideal for bird watching.
HISTORIC TOUR AND INTRODUCTION TO THE SEAWEED INDUSTRY (1 to 2 hours approx.)
Walk around the Lodge to learn about its history, its founder, inhabitants, the buildings, everything! Also visit the barns where the seaweed is processed and learn about the different species found in Bahia Bustamante, its uses and more.
RANCH DAY AND INTRODUCTION TO SUSTAINABLEWOOL PRODUCTION (4 hours approx.)
Sustainable wool is produced at the ranch. Here, you will gain an understanding of the production process of wool and meat, and according to the season, you may participate in a day’s work, visiting the corrals and learning about the different activities carried out: shearing, weaning, classification or marking of the sheep.
MARSH EXPERIENCE
At low tide get immersed on the Malaspina Cove marsh, to discover its intertidal landscape. This is a rich feeding
area for marine coastal birds and gives you the chance to observe unique specimens that are hard to find on other
excursions. You will also discover a large alga and invertebrate diversity on our path. It is an ideal experience for
bird lovers or those looking for an intimate observation of wildlife and landscape. A true opportunity to discover
the amazing diversity of this unexplored marine universe.
DAY 3 – January 28, 2025
Enjoy one or more of the activities Bahía Bustamante has to offer you during the day.
All meals included.
DAY 4 – January 29, 2025
Enjoy one or more of the activities Bahía Bustamante has to offer you during the day.
All meals included.
DAY 5 – January 30, 2025
After breakfast and bidding farewell to your gracious hosts, return to Trelew (3 hr drive) for a flight to Buenos Aires
Upon arrival in Buenos Aires, collect luggage and transfer to the pier where you will re-embark the ship.
Land Program Step by Step
The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. This program is subject to flight confirmations, which are beyond our control. All program details, timings and flights indicated below are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change. Direct flights are never guaranteed. Final itineraries with updated details will be provided by the Destination Services Team once you board the ship. Please review your final itinerary carefully for any amendments.
Day 1
9:00am Disembark the ship in Santos, Brazil
9:15am Proceed to the port terminal for security screening
9:30am Depart for the drive to the airport
11:00am Arrive at the airport and check-in
1:00pm Flight to Buenos Aires (Flight details TBA and subject to change)
4:00pm Arrive in Buenos Aires, proceed through Customs and Immigration
6:00pm Proceed to your hotel and check-in
8:30pm Dinner and Tango Show at Rojo Tango or similar venue
Overnight at Sofitel Recoleta Hotel or similar hotel
Day 2 – timings may vary depending on actual flight times
8:00am Wake up call, breakfast at the hotel
9:30am Proceed to the Buenos Aires Domestic Airport
10:00am Arrive at Buenos Aires Domestic Airport and check-in
11:30am Flight from Buenos Aires to Trelew (Flight details TBA and subject to change)
2:00pm Arrive at Trelew Airport, collect luggage
2:30pm Drive to Bahía Bustamante Lodge
6:00pm Arrival to the Lodge
7:00pm Dinner at the Lodge
Overnight at Bahía Bustamante Lodge
Day 3
8:00am Wake up call, breakfast at the Lodge
TBA Activities at the Lodge
8:00pm Dinner at the Lodge
Overnight at Bahía Bustamante Lodge
Day 4
8:00am Wake up call, breakfast at the Lodge
TBA Activities at the Lodge
8:00pm Dinner at the Lodge
Overnight at Bahía Bustamante Lodge
Day 5 – timings may vary depending on actual flight times
4:00am Wake up call, early morning breakfast at the hotel
5:00am Drive to Trelew Airport
8:00am Arrive at Trelew Airport and check-in
9:25am Fly from Trelew to Buenos Aires (Flight details TBA and subject to change)
11:35am Arrive at Buenos Aires Domestic Airport, collect luggage
12:30pm Drive to the pier
1:30pm Approximate arrival at the port to re-embark the ship
LODGE NOTES:
Electricity - The Lodge has electricity from dusk until midnight via generator. During the rest of the day, the Sea Houses are illuminated with solar panels and battery-powered lighting. It is recommended that you bring a flashlight. The electrical current is 220-230 volts (U.S. standard is 110-15 volts). We also recommend bringing a universal travel adaptor for electric devices.
WiFi: The Lodge has satellite WiFi service in the restaurant, which works a few hours per day (it runs on solar power). The service is basic and variable.
Phones: There is no cell phone service here. There is a landline (additional cost)
In the Restaurant: Breakfast is country-style and typical Argentine which includes toast, cereal, jams and homemade butter, yogurt, cheese, cold cuts and fruit. Lunch and Dinner are set menu with a starter, main course and dessert. The Lodge is located in a remote location, which may result in stock limitations. They serve fish, pasta, lamb, seafood and other traditional dishes, depending on availability.
Expected Weather: (Historical average)
Buenos Aires: Min: 21°C (69.8°F) / Max: 29°C (84.2°F)
Bahía Bustamante: Min: 10°C (50°F) / Max: 25°C (77°F)
What to Bring:
Sports footwear (running shoes-type, waterproof may be beneficial), sandals, synthetic warm clothing. lightweight jacket, waterproof windbreaker, loose-fitting trousers, t-shirts and shorts, casual evening attire including a sweater. Sun hat, sunglasses and sunscreen, camera and chargers, flashlight.
Local Currency:
The legal tender is the Argentine Peso. Travelers should bring some of their own currency and change it into pesos little by little. ATM withdrawals that reflect the current exchange rate are the best way to keep up with the fluctuating value of the peso. American Express, Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted in most retail establishments.
Luggage information:
Weight allowance for domestic flights within Argentina is 1 piece of hand luggage up to 8 kgs / 17 lbs and 1 checked piece of luggage up to 15 kgs / 33 lbs. Guests having excess or overweight bags will be subject to fees imposed by the airline which will be payable upon check in for the flights.
Carriage of Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC) or CPAP breathing machines on internal flights per airline regulations (subject to change as each airline has their own regulations)
1. Guests must obtain a doctor’s certificate mentioning their medical condition and the need to carry this equipment with them on their flights.
2. The certificate should have attached a picture of the equipment with its description/specifications, especially with regards to the type of batteries used (lithium/dry or any other type).
3. These documents must be sent to the Land Program Team via the Reservations Team at least one month prior to travel so that our local operator can begin the notification process with the airline(s).
4. Failure to comply with the above regulations may result in a denial of this equipment at the airport for which the cruise line nor our local ground operator can be responsible for.
Documents and Visa Requirements:
A passport that is valid at least 6 months after travel is required. Guests should check with their local Argentinian embassy for any visa requirements for their nationality. This program begins in Brazil and ends in Argentina.
VERY IMPORTANT – The name on your cruise booking, passport and any visas if required, must all be exactly the same for flight ticket purchase for this program, otherwise guests may be denied travel by flight. Please ensure that all documents are identical in spelling to the names provided for your cruise reservation including first, middle and last name. Manifests generated by the cruise line must match your travel documents.
Failure to have the required documents ahead of time or incorrect names on flight tickets will result in either denial of travel or ticket re-purchase and guests will be responsible for any fees incurred.
Hotel addresses:
Sofitel Recoleta Hotel
Posadas 1232, Buenos Aires
Bahía Bustamante
Bahía Bustamante, U9111 Comodoro Rivadavia, Chubut
*We will only substitute hotels in unforeseen situations. If the hotels are substituted, they will be similar and with equal ratings and standards and guests will be notified in advance. If guests are not notified of any changes before departure, then the hotels listed in this program will be used.
Program Includes:
1 night at the Sofitel Recoleta Hotel – Superior Room
3 nights at Bahía Bustamante Lodge – Superior Sea Cabin
Transfers
English speaking guide for all services in Buenos Aires and Bahía Bustamante
Lunch (1 soft drink) on days 3, 4 and 5
Dinner (1 soft drink and 1 glass of wine) on days 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
Porterage at hotels and airports (based on 1 piece of luggage per person)
All activities at Bahía Bustamante Lodge
Local escort to accompany the group
Economy class flights per the itinerary
Program Excludes:
Discretionary gratuities for guides and drivers
Personal and incidental expenses including room service, telephone, mini bar, laundry
Any other meals and beverages not listed above
Visa fees if required
Excess or overweight baggage fees on flights
Please note: Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include inclines, cobblestones, sand, gravel and natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. Guests who utilize a wheelchair and those with mobility concerns are advised to check with the cruise line in advance to see if any portion of the tour program may not be considered suitable for their individual situation.
All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations.
Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Mid-cruise overland programs must be purchased no later than 90 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 90 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty.
Price: $5,999 per guest based on double occupancy.
Land program promotions are per person for guests 1 and 2 for one pre- or post-cruise program only, subject to terms.
