From ice to jungle - Wild Argentina

In the first of the BBC’s new series, Explore, Simon Reeve takes a journey through the spectacular landscapes of Argentina, from the vast ice fields of Patagonia to the wide-open plains of the Pampas. For those who prefer to venture further from the TV, Wildlife Worldwide offers an 18-day exploration through Argentina’s diverse wilderness locations, including dramatic Los Glaciares National Park, the marine life of Valdes Peninsula and Tierra del Fuego NP, and the wildlife of Iguazu Falls and Yacutinga Rainforest.

An initial night is spent in Buenos Aires, before transferring by air to Trelew, gateway to the wildlife-rich Valdes Peninsula. At Punta Tombo travellers visit the world’s largest colony of Magellanic Penguins and explore the Peninsula itself, home to Elephant Seals and Sealions, Guanacos, Armadillos, Orcas (March to April) and the unusual Flightless Rhea.

Later, fly down to Ushuaia, the world’s southernmost city, where during a 3-night stay, excursions include 4x4 explorations of Tierra del Fuego National Park and a cruise through the Beagle Channel with its picturesque bays, inlets, rich flora and fauna. The incredible blue icefields of Perito Moreno, Upsalla and Onelli Glaciers will be the focus in Los Glaciares National Park. Nearby Lago Argentina may reveal Black-necked Wan, Black-chested Buzzard and Andean Condor.

On to Iguazu Falls, straddling the Argentine-Brazil border, wildlife is abundant, with over 500 species of butterfly, 400 species of bird and 2,000 species of plant. Drive west from the falls to Yacutinga Rainforest Lodge, set amongst 250,000 hectares of primary rainforest in the northeastern corner of the Missiones region. Both walking and river safaris, accompanied by the lodge’s naturalist guides allow guests to search for countless species of birds, mammals and plants, before returning to Buenos Aires and homeward flights.

The tour costs from £3,395 p/p (Jan to June) including scheduled flights, transfers, hotel, guesthouse and hosteria accommodation, some meals and expertly guided activities.

For more information, log on to Wildlifeworldwide.com.