If you’ve found yourself here, it’s likely you’re doing your research, and I completely understand why. There’s no more important question than ‘Which company should I travel with when I go to South America?’
Planning a bucket-list adventure isn’t just about choosing the destination; it’s about finding the right journey—one that speaks to your sense of adventure and connection.
You’re not looking for something that simply checks the boxes of tourist attractions. You’re seeking something more meaningful. You want to immerse yourself in the experience, connect with the landscapes, wildlife, and people, and return home with memories that stay with you long after the trip is over. At Quasar Expeditions, that’s exactly what we offer: travel that stirs up the unique experiences and thrilling emotions that result in lifetime memories.
2024 has been a banner year for us, and it’s all thanks to travelers like you—people who crave more than just beautiful views. You’re adventurers who want to form deeper connections with nature, culture, and the people you meet along the way. Because of your trust, we’ve been honored with some of the travel world’s highest accolades this year, including:
- #1 Intimate-Ship Ocean Cruise Line by Travel + Leisure
- #2 Tour Operator in the World by Travel + Leisure
- Top 3 Expedition Ship Line by Condé Nast Traveler
- Best Cruise Line for Families by USA Today
- Travelers’ Choice Award: Galapagos Luxury Cruise by Tripadvisor
These awards are so much more than titles to us—they are reflections of the incredible journeys we’ve shared with explorers like you.
But what do they mean for you, the traveler? Let me walk you through what makes safari-style travel with Quasar so special and why it’s an experience unlike anything you’ve had before.
What makes a Quasar expedition different from traditional cruises or tours?
At Quasar, our entire team is on the same page: we think travel should move you. It’s not about rushing through itineraries or snapping photos at famous landmarks—it’s about slowing down and truly immersing yourself in the moment. Our expeditions are expertly designed to give you space for reflection and connection, both with the natural world and the people you meet along the way.
Unlike traditional cruises, which often focus on onboard entertainment, our expedition luxury cruises in Galapagos are about engaging with the world around you. You won’t find yourself lost in a sea of tourists; instead, you’ll be part of a small, intimate group stepping off the yacht into wild, untouched landscapes, exploring with the freedom to follow your own curiosity.
In the Galapagos Islands, this means experiences like kayaking beside playful sea lions, snorkeling with marine iguanas, and walking among giant tortoises. Each day brings a new adventure, carefully crafted to help you connect deeply with the incredible natural world. You’ll feel like a modern Charles Darwin (in more comfortable clothing), deeply connected with the landscapes and wildlife of the archipelago.
Our version of onboard entertainment is less Cirque du Soleil and more about enjoying gourmet meals, raising a glass to the day's adventures, sharing stories with like-minded travelers, and engaging in fascinating talks with our expert Guides.
In Patagonia, our luxury Overland Safaris take you across vast, untouched landscapes. Picture yourself traveling through remote mountain passes in a luxury off-road vehicle, spotting herds of guanacos, or hiking to the base of towering glaciers. Every day feels like a golden opportunity, with only a handful of fellow travelers and expert Guides to share in the discoveries.
If the thought of crowded buses and long lines “give you the ick” (as the kids say), Quasar’s style of travel is right for you.
Where do Quasar’s expeditions explore?
Our expeditions are thoughtfully designed to take you to some of the most remote and awe-inspiring places in South America. (And yet, we make it feel refreshingly easy to get there with streamlined logistics and private transfers.) My guess is our destinations are a near-match for a large portion of your bucket list!
- The Galapagos Islands
- Argentine Patagonia
- Chilean Patagonia
- Peru
- Atacama Desert
- Amazon River
The Galapagos Islands offer a front-row seat to a world teeming with life—each island presents a different ecosystem, from volcanic landscapes to lush mangroves. Whether you’re snorkeling in crystal-clear waters or watching Pelicans swan-dive into the sea, you’ll feel connected to the islands in a way few travelers ever do.
In Patagonia, you’ll journey into a land that feels like it belongs to another era. One day, you’ll find yourself hiking through glaciers that seem to stretch to the horizon; the next, you’ll be standing beside fjords that mirror the sky. Our Overland Safaris take you far from the usual tourist paths, giving you moments of solitude where the only sounds are the wind and the whispers of nature.
And if you crave even more adventure, we also explore the Amazon Rainforest. Picture yourself walking among the treetops at Sacha Lodge in Ecuador, where the calls of howler monkeys fill the air. Or imagine cruising through the remote tributaries of the Peruvian Amazon on a riverboat, where pink dolphins surface beside you as you drift through the water. These aren’t just vacations—they are journeys that leave a lasting imprint on your heart.
What is safari-style travel, and how does Quasar bring it to South America?
We’ve taken the concept of safari travel—often associated with Africa—and reimagined it for the stunning landscapes of South America. A safari is about being immersed in nature, and we’re convinced that it’s the best way to experience the world up close, authentically, and with deep intention.
In the Galapagos, our yacht safaris take you from island to island in a small group, guided by expert naturalists who bring the landscape to life with their stories and insights. You’ll spend your days hiking through ancient lava fields or snorkeling in pristine waters, and your nights relaxing on a luxury yacht, where the sky is filled with stars.
In Patagonia, our Overland Safaris offer the same level of intimacy and immersion. You’ll explore vast regions in luxury off-road vehicles, stay in handpicked lodges that combine authenticity with warmth, and gather around a fire each evening to reflect on the day’s adventures with fellow travelers.
Why are Quasar’s Naturalist Guides so important to the experience?
Our hand-picked Patagonia Guides and Galapagos Guides are more than just experts—they’re storytellers who bring these landscapes to life. They’re the heart and soul of your Quasar journey. Whether it’s a biologist in the Galapagos explaining the evolution of species or a local guide like Gonzalo in Patagonia, who knows the mountains like his own backyard, their passion and knowledge create experiences you’ll never forget.
They also have a sixth sense for those unforgettable, spontaneous moments—like spotting a pod of dolphins beside your yacht or stopping to observe a rare bird in Patagonia. They make sure you’re fully present in those magical moments that can’t be planned but make all the difference.
What can you expect from Quasar’s accommodations?
As the years have gone by, I’ve come to realize that adventure doesn’t have to come at the cost of comfort. I think we can all agree it feels good to be pampered on vacation! You worked hard to achieve a getaway, so we work hard to help you enjoy it to the fullest.
At Quasar, we believe in luxury without pretension. On our yacht safaris, you’ll enjoy twice-daily cabin cleanings, gourmet meals made with local ingredients, and personal service that makes you feel at home. Whether you’re on the Grace Yacht or Evolution Yacht, each night brings comfort and relaxation after a day of exploring.
In Patagonia, you’ll stay in boutique lodges that blend warmth with authenticity. After a day of hiking glaciers and trekking through mountain passes, you’ll come back to a cozy fire and a delicious meal, ready to share stories of the day’s adventures. And in the Atacama Desert, you’ll wake up wrapped in luxury as the first light casts brilliant colors across the rocky landscape, a view unique to this otherworldly paradise.
For those venturing into the jungle for an Amazon rainforest tour,accommodations like Sacha Lodge or a luxurious riverboat cruise along the Peruvian Amazon offer an immersive experience in one of the world’s last untouched wildernesses. Every comfort is considered, allowing you to fully enjoy your surroundings without sacrificing the conveniences of modern travel.
Once you travel the Quasar way, you’ll crave it again and again
Once you experience a Quasar expedition, you’ll find yourself longing for more. There’s something about the way we travel that transforms the way you see the world. Where you go matters, but what truly stays with you is how you feel while you're there, the connections you build, and the memories that linger long after the journey ends.
After your first journey with us—whether it’s sailing through the Galapagos or puma tracking across Patagonia—you’ll start thinking about where else you can explore. With Quasar, bucket-list destinations like Peru’s Sacred Valley or the mysteries of Easter Island are within your reach. And the best part? Paul, Diane, and Tasha take care of all the details, so you can focus on the adventure.
What sets Quasar apart from other expedition companies?
How you travel matters. We were the first expedition line in the Galapagos, and with nearly 40 years of experience, we’ve cultivated deep relationships with the places we explore. Our commitment to sustainability guides everything we do, from supporting conservation efforts to working closely with local communities to ensure our travel leaves a positive impact.
But it’s not just our experience or our environmental focus that sets us apart—it’s the heart and soul we bring to every journey. We immerse you in quiet luxury travel, in savoring each moment, and in forming meaningful connections—with the land, with the wildlife, and with one another.
With Quasar, you’re part of something bigger. You’re part of a story that continues long after you’ve arrived back home.
Are you ready to believe in travel again?
We invite you to embark on a journey that goes beyond the ordinary—a chance to rediscover the true magic of travel. Whether you’re dreaming of sailing through the Galapagos, trekking across the wilds of Patagonia, or venturing into the depths of the Amazon, we’re here to make your adventure unforgettable. With every detail cared for, your focus will be where it should be: fully immersed in the extraordinary.
Ready to take the next step? Schedule a complimentary consultation and get every question answered.