Ultimate Antarctica Adventure: Working Professional’s $70K Trip Details & Cost Breakdown

Last October, the call of Antarctica beckoned to me. If you’re a person of action and have a destination that’s been calling your name, don’t hesitate—go for it! Here’s a detailed route and cost breakdown tailored for the average worker who seeks a balance between affordability and a memorable experience. While 70,000 RMB is no small sum, the once-in-a-lifetime adventure makes every penny worthwhile! I hope this guide will help you turn your Antarctic dream into a reality soon! 🌟

🚩18-day itinerary (specific schedule can be referenced in the last image)
Day 0-1: Guangzhou – Hong Kong – Buenos Aires
Day 2: Explore Buenos Aires: Discover the vibrant La Boca, stroll through Palermo, visit the stunning El Ateneo Grand Splendid, catch the sunset at Palacio Barolo, and cap off the evening with an electrifying Tango show.

Day 3: Buenos Aires – Ushuaia: Start the day with a visit to the historic Recoleta Cemetery in Buenos Aires, then catch an afternoon flight to Ushuaia. Upon arrival, rent a car and bask in the enchanting blue hour.
Day 4: Ushuaia day trip: Spend the morning exploring Tierra del Fuego National Park, do some shopping at a local supermarket, and in the afternoon, hike the breathtaking Martial Glacier.

Day 5: Boarding day in Ushuaia: Begin with a half-day tour of the Beagle Channel, including a lighthouse and three islands, and board the ship in the afternoon.
Day 6-14: Antarctic voyage: Navigate the legendary Drake Passage round trip, with multiple landings in Antarctica. For more details, check out my other posts.

Day 15: Disembarkation day in Ushuaia – Buenos Aires: After disembarking, enjoy leisurely souvenir shopping, then fly back to Buenos Aires in the afternoon.
Day 16: Buenos Aires – Hong Kong – Guangzhou: Visit iconic sites like the Obelisk and Plaza de Mayo in the morning, take a midday ferry to Colonia, Uruguay, and return in the evening.

Day 17-18: Return flight to China

💰Detailed expenses: Approximately 70,000 RMB in total
1️⃣ Major transportation: Round trip from Hong Kong to Buenos Aires about ¥12,464, round trip from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia about ¥2,483
2️⃣ Antarctic cruise ticket: Oceanwide Ortelius 11-day double room, $6,150 about ¥44,564, plus tips $150 about ¥1,100
3️⃣ Argentine e-visa: $400 about ¥2,890
4️⃣ Insurance + SIM card: ¥1,012
5️⃣ Accommodation: 3 nights in Buenos Aires, average ¥143/night, 2 nights in Ushuaia, average ¥195/night
6️⃣ Car rental in Ushuaia for 1 day: Automatic with insurance and fuel, 98,000 pesos about ¥323/person

✅ Tips
1️⃣ Currency exchange: The Chinese supermarkets in Buenos Aires offer excellent exchange rates. You can easily convert RMB to pesos. Exchange reference: $350, about 550,000 pesos
2️⃣ Car rental: Highly recommend renting a car in Ushuaia! It’s both convenient and cost-effective! A one-day rental equals the entrance fee for two people to Tierra del Fuego National Park (free if you go early).

We booked with Alamo at the airport, and you can return the car in the city center.
3️⃣ Souvenirs: Check out the Feria de Artesanos market in Ushuaia for unique and authentic souvenirs.
4️⃣ Bring a European standard power adapter