andBeyond has partnered with Quark Expeditions to expand its operations to a fourth continent. The partners have created “A Taste of the Wild Life: A Masterclass with Kris Tompkins,” an 18-night land and sea adventure that gives travelers an intimate glimpse into what is being done to protect the landscapes and wildlife inhabitants of Chile and Argentina, as well as the Antarctic Circle.
The trip will include Kristine (Kris) McDivitt Tompkins, president and co-founder of Tompkins Conservation and an American conservationist and former CEO of Patagonia, Inc. Kris and her late husband Douglas Tompkins have protected approximately 14.8 million acres of parklands in Chile and Argentina through Tompkins Conservation and its partners, making them among the most successful national park-orientated philanthropists in history. Throughout the trip, Kris will share personal stories of the work that has gone into protecting and rewilding large swathes of the Patagonian wilderness. These will include a presentation on the efforts involved in the creation of a national park. There will also be a screening of the “Wild Life” documentary, followed by a Q&A session with Kris on her story.
The Masterclass itinerary kicks off in Chilean Patagonia at the Torres del Paine National Park, where travelers will immerse themselves in the work being done by the Cerro Guido Foundation to reintroduce and protect Chile’s most endangered species. Staying at the historic Estancia Cerra Guido, guests can not only learn the way of the land from local gaucho, who care for the farm’s livestock, but will have the opportunity for a glimpse of the conservation work being done to preserve the area’s flora and fauna. Accompanied by expert puma researchers and trackers, they will immerse themselves in activities that form part of this project.
Those keen to learn more about the surrounding landscapes can also opt for a scenic overland excursion through Torres del Paine. Those in search of more physical activity can explore the region on horseback or spend the day fishing, while history buffs will enjoy the opportunity to tour a Patagonian ranch.
Leaving Patagonia, the itinerary continues to Cabo Froward (Cape Froward), where travelers can explore the mountains, glaciers and forest, as well as enjoy a taste of the culture of Punta Arenas. Traveling on to Ushuaia, the erstwhile explorers are introduced to the Ultramarine, a vessel specifically built for exploration of the polar regions. Departing via the Beagle Channel, travelers can photograph the area’s landscapes and sea birds before heading into the vastness of the Southern Ocean. Over the next three days, they can join in presentations on photography, wildlife, glaciology and history.
As guests come close to landfall on the Antarctic Peninsula, Zodiac boats will whisk them away to explore bays and channels, penguin rookeries, scanning the horizon for humpback and minke whale, or keeping an eye out for leopard seals. Travelers can select from a range of additional adventures, all under the supervision of the Expedition Team. Should conditions be conducive, the group will cross the Antarctic Circle and witness the midnight sun casting its ethereal glow on the icy landscape.
Heading back across the Drake Passage, guests will enjoy some time to reflect on their experiences and on the new understanding of this largely unknown and unexplored region. There will also be plenty of opportunity to listen to more enthralling stories shared by Kris and the Expedition Team onboard the vessel.
“A Taste of the Wild Life: A Masterclass with Kris Tompkins” runs from February 25 to March 15, 2025.
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