Viva Expeditions

Fantastic experience: Pia organised a wonderful trip for us to Stewart Island in late Dec 2023 for three nights. Spotted wild kiwi at night, experienced the beautiful Ulva Island on a walking tour, caught a water taxi to Port William and hiked back on part of the Rakiura track. Plenty of hiking tracks to experience and plentiful birdlife. Our accommodation was at Sails Ashore with wonderful hosts Peter and Iris who couldn't do enough for us. The short flight from Invercargill to Stewart Island was great. If you have never been to Stewart Island, highly recommend.

Fantastic experience: Five Star Experience Before, During, and After Trip to Antarctica via Ushuaia. #Before Given the nature of the trip, I had a number of questions about what to pack and wear. Their team recorded YouTube videos to help me see what I needed and were always timely, succinct, yet specific, in their responses. #During They were comfortable with all different curiosities and capabilities of their guests, which made it feel really easy to get along with them during the trip and ask questions. They were usually first to do the intimidating activities, to help us all jump in behind them, literally including things like the polar plunge. #After As promised, we got a ton of materials afterward. Info about where we want, what we saw, and great photos. #Conclusion 5 Stars, would definitely do again with them!

Fantastic experience: We had an incredible 11 day trip to Antartica through Viva Expeditions and on the Ocean Victory. Big shout out to Emma for helping us make our dream trip come true. The communication was fantastic and we had all we needed along the way.

Fantastic experience: The trip was EPIC!!!! It exceeded my expectations in every way possible. I have to give a HUGE shout-out to Viva for their incredible planning and, more importantly, execution of this once-in-a-lifetime trip to Antarctica. Thank you Viva!!!

Fantastic experience: VIVA put on a superb expedition to Antarctica on the Ocean Albatros explorer ship in November 2023. It was the perfect blend of adventure, learning, fun with specular scenery, amazing wildlife, knowledgeable experts, and the opportunity to make new lifelong friends. Thanks very much, we had the best time.

Fantastic experience: I had a wonderful time with Viva on my trip to Antarctica, I can't recommend them enough! The trip was a huge undertaking and Rachel and Tara handled everything down to the last detail perfectly! I definitely plan on using them again and highly recommend them!

Fantastic experience: Delighted to have been looked after by Viva for this expedition to the Antarctic. The trip exceeded all expectations and their organisational skills and communication definitely made things so much easier. I really appreciated Emma's guiding hand before the trip and Tara certainly looked after me while I was away. I have run out of adjectives to describe what I have seen! Will definitely be looking at their services for further expedition travel.

Fantastic experience: Remarkable! That said actually almost impossible to explain to people here back in the US. We went on the my EO Family Galapagos Expedition last week. The experience was exceptional in everyway. As for the nature, I have never seen anything like it, so many animals and its like your inside the pen with the animals at a zoo. The best snorkling I have experienced for sure. The naturalists knew the answer to every question and shared so much about what we were seeing. The ship crew and food were outstanding and the size of the boat, being an expedition ship with 50 passengers, allowed them to get to know us and us them which I have never experienced. It was supurbly organized and ran. This was a once in a lifetime experience I will never forget. I can't recommend Viva Expeditions enough.

Fantastic experience: Amazing trip to Quito, Ecuador and the Galapagos with Viva Expeditions! Everything was incredibly well planned and executed...incredible experiences every day (swimming w/sea lions, visiting tortoises, snorkling w/sea turtles & sharks, etc!), along with free/down time to rest, absorb, and get ready for the next adventure!

Fantastic experience: My family and I spent 15 days in Ecuador visiting the Galapagos and the Amazon. Viva Expeditions couldn't have done a better job of setting us up and taking care of our planning. We got back last night and are so happy to have gone. You can't go wrong with Viva! Thank you Viva for a fantastic trip!

Fantastic experience: Seamless! We arrived 3 days early and had 3 days of arguing over what we were going to do each day. With 3 kids from 12 - 18, no one wants to do the same thing and every decision is a fight. As soon as the Viva itinerary started, the decisions were made for us and we could just relax and enjoy the experience!

Fantastic experience: We certainly recommend Viva Expeditions! Viva’s communications were efficient and very knowledgeable. Great local expedition partner with great facilities, food and service. All arrangements went very smoothly during our Quito and Galápagos Islands 7 day trip and every day was a wondrous delight.

Fantastic experience: My wife and I have just returned from 5 weeks in South America. It is our second trip arranged through Viva and just like the first one it all went perfectly. Their local knowledge of things to see and do, and places to stay is great. Tara was fantastic, rebooking the trip after Covid and making some late changes when our circumstances changed. Highly recommended.

Fantastic experience: I recently travelled to Patagonia with the help of Viva Expeditions. The trip itself was absolutely incredible with the most amazing scenery. Viva made the booking process so easy and the arrangements flowed seamlessly. The team are extremely knowledgeable, passionate, and so friendly to deal with. A fantastic experience and I would 100% recommend to anyone wishing to explore South America. Thank you!

Fantastic experience: Pia at Viva Expeditions was wonderful with helping us book our trip of a lifetime to the Falkland Islands, South Georgia and Antarctica. The trip itself was incredible, everything we hoped it would be but so much more. I really enjoyed the scenery, wildlife and history of the Falklands after not really knowing what to expect and South Georgia was amazing with thousands of penguins and hundreds of seals and whales. A real bonus there was going to Shackleton's grave and having a shot of whisky for "the boss" then exploring the old whaling station and museum there. Antarctica was next level and spending the night on the ice in a tent is something I'll never forget. The Hurtigruten owned MS Fram was perfect, chosen by us for her smaller size meaning we could experience two landings each day (when they were scheduled) without long waits. The crew was fantastic, all experts in their field and we really didn't feel like we were on a "cruise ship", it was a true expedition! Instead of nightly entertainment we enjoyed interesting lectures on various topics and during the day got to take part in some citizen science programs. I would do it all again tomorrow and not change a thing - an absolute life highlight that I wish everyone could experience.

Fantastic experience: I recently booked a trip to South America with Viva Expeditions and I couldn't be happier with my experience. From start to finish, Emma from the team at Viva Expeditions was incredibly helpful and knowledgeable. She helped me choose the perfect itinerary for me needs and budget, and provided me with all the information I needed to prepare for my trip. During my trip, everything went smoothly. The accommodations were comfortable and clean, the communication with local agents were seamless, the activities were well-organised and enjoyable. I particularly appreciated the small group size, which allowed for a more personalised experience. In addition, Emma managed book me for a couple of football matches last minutes under my requirements. Overall, I highly recommend Viva Expeditions to anyone looking for a well-planned and enjoyable travel experience. The team's attention to detail and commitment to customer satisfaction truly sets them apart from other travel companies. The communication with Emma is almost 24/7, I have never worried about anything during my trip as I knew I have Emma behind me at any time.

Fantastic experience: Emma was fantastic in handling all aspects of our trip to Antarctica. We will definitely use her services in the future.

Fantastic experience: My husband and I just completed an incredible expedition through the Falkland Islands, South Georgia, the Antarctic Peninsula, and crossing the South Antarctic Circle! A trip organized by Viva Expeditions and led by the Quark Expedition polar team. Every detail was expertly organized and facilitated by the amazing experts on the Quark Ocean Diamond ship. When weather or other conditions caused delays or termination of planned zodiac cruises or landings, the brilliant expedition team members would design an alternative activity. All our experiences and exposures were further enhanced and expanded upon by the excellent lectures and presentations we enjoyed, given by the team members. Every facet of this trip of a lifetime could not have been better. We are grateful for the expertise of all those involved in the planning of our Epic Antarctic Expedition! And there were so many other personnel involved - who ensured that we were well fed in a first-class restaurant that continually surprised everyone with the excellent meals - who tended to our every need in our cabins - who assisted with ensuring all passengers safely negotiated transfers into and out of the zodiacs - who entertained us in the boutique shop and the bar - and who maintained the safety and security of the ship throughout our entire voyage. Truly a trip to remember.

Fantastic experience: We did an expedition to Antarctica with Viva and it was excellently handled and managed. Would definitely recommend them for anyone who wants to see the Arctics.

Fantastic experience: My wife and I just returned from a 10 day expedition to Antarctica hosted by Viva Expeditions. It was epic. I always wanted to visit Antarctica and check off that 7th continent but up until now, I felt it was too complicated. Viva Expeditions made it easy and enjoyable. From the initial point of contact until we arrived home, we were always supported by the company. We received great suggestions and they handled flights, busses, transfers, certain meals, activities, and itineraries. Throughout the process, they kept us informed and up to date on deadlines associated with the process. I couldn't imagine succeeding as well as we did without them. We ended up having a very successful trip and have our eye on some upcoming Galapagos trips they are planning.

Fantastic experience: Absolutely fantastic experience on our expedition! Rachel and her team were amazing.

Fantastic experience: I was lucky enough to travel to the Antarctica with Viva Expeditions, and Argentina too. The team at Viva were exceptional. My expedition was seamless. The contact points were well spaced, the information provided was great, nothing was missed. The support up to, during, and after was well thought through and unobtrusive. The expedition left me speechless. Viva knows how to do Antarctica. Hands down, most awe inspiring holiday ever. I would recommend Viva to everyone!!!

Fantastic experience: Rachel, Tara, and the Viva Expeditions team were fantastic to work with and accommodated our needs and questions every step of the way. Highly recommend traveling with them!

Fantastic experience: Viva is a team of well-traveled, passionate, helpful people. They've been where they are taking you; they know the local's, the hotels, the on-site agents, and will do everything in their power to make your adventure, extraordinary. Highly recommended for adventure travel experiences.

Fantastic experience: The trip to Antarctica was absolutely magical. I am so grateful and enjoyed it so much. We will travel with Viva again.

Fantastic experience: We used Viva Expeditions for our recent trip to Peru and the Galapagos Islands. From start to finish, our experience with Viva was extremely positive. Emma organized our trip in great detail and with great patience. Once on the trip itself, everything ran smoothly and we didn't have a care in the world...except to enjoy every minute of what was a bucket list trip for us. Thank you Emma and Viva Expeditions, we wouldn't hesitate to book through you again, or to recommend the company to anyone!

Fantastic experience: A fantastic experience from start to finish, I would highly recommend Viva.

Fantastic experience: Viva Expeditions planned an amazing experience for 8 of us in Chile - it was seamless, easy and full of laughs... Will definitely use them for future experiences.

Fantastic experience: So. Much. Wow. From the moment we engaged with the Viva team we were blown away by the service and experience. Our trip to Chile was a jam-packed explosion of culture, history and once-in-a-lifetime experiences including helicopter flights into the Andes, winery visits, exciting walking tours and sumptuous dining. The accomodation and transfers were high quality and there was so much thought put into each touchpoint. I couldn't recommend highly enough.

Fantastic experience: The Southern Flights to the Lights watching one of the world's most unique natural phenomenons was really extremely moving and incredible to watch. Thanks to Viva for such a professional and well-organised experience. A must do travel experience especially when we can't fly anywhere else!

Fantastic experience: I took their tour to see the Southern Lights from NZ last weekend. Such a novel trip put together by the team at Viva. Far beyond my expectations of just hopping on a 10 hour flight and looking out the window. An educational session with scientists and the friendly people at the Antarctic Centre, followed by nibbles, and a meet and greet at the airport lounge with champaign and photographers on hand to help teach people about how to change camera settings for best effect. Rachel, the Founder of Viva, was in attendance and personally meeting all 250 odd passengers and speaking over the plane intercom throughout. They thought of everything right down double boarding passes so everyone gets to look out a window, to teeing up special permission from the CAA to turn the plane nav lights off for better viewing. Outstanding details that must take a lot of effort to tick off. It also displays an incredibly creative adaptation given the present climate of closed borders, and helped multiple NZ industry operators who are struggling. It looks like Viva have been around for over 10 years now but coming up with fresh meticulous ideas like this over a year into a global pandemic - I think they'll be around much longer.

Fantastic experience: Great Wild Patagonia Tour - on paper at least. Looking forward to it.

Fantastic experience: Viva Expeditions made our family vacation to Argentina very memorable!

Fantastic experience: Awesome Adventures!

Fantastic experience: A big "thank you very much" to Viva and their partners for an awesome trip. From early on it was very clear that a lot of thought had gone into a lot of aspects such as how to minimise border crossing downtime and how to educate us quickly about the history of each country we touched on. As a result it felt very much like we were part of a quality experience and still receiving very good value for money in the process. Every day was full of highlights. People ask what was "the" highlight but thanks to the itinerary, and what we learnt along the way, even the biggest items on our personal list were matched every day by other awesome stuff; 42 days adds up to a lot of highlights! :-) We did have the additional experience of Jo breaking her wrist as we were climbing Machu Picchu but, if anything, it proved the value in working with Viva and its partners. Our guide ensured that we got to medical attention asap after we had completed the climb and hung around interpreting until the situation and next steps had been settled. Consequentially, the Peruvian medical people were all very nice and worked to ensure minimal downtime so we could return for the Quito / Galapagos / Amazon part of the trip. Thank you very much Viva for your contribution to making our South America experience such an awesome one.

Fantastic experience: Great Company!

Fantastic experience: We had an absolutely marvelous trip with Viva Expeditions to Patagonia. Tara Strickland did an amazing job, was in constant communication, and even though she Was located in New Zealand, in a very different time zone, was always very quick about responding. She supported us every step of the way. We had a tremendous time at the Singulair hotel in Punta Natales, Staying at the beautiful venue with amazing views. It is very unique, a converted cold storage plant. We then went on an Australis 5 day cruise, all-around Patagonia, through hundreds of glaciers, so beautiful mountain views, magellan penguins. We went around Cape Horn, departing Punta Arenas and ending in Ushuaia. The lectures, service, food, and views were all excellent on the cruise. It truly was the trip of a lifetim it truly was the trip of a lifetime. The views were so beautiful, camera filters couldn’t make it look any better! If you go, you won’t regret it!

Positive experience: Awesome.

Fantastic experience: My wife and I found Viva Expeditions while comparing travel agents for our South American honeymoon. We found Viva Expeditions very responsive and dealing via email (as we live in Australia) was easy. Jo Rees was our agent at Viva and she was amazing! We had a rough idea of some things we wanted to do/see and Jo came up with some other great ideas. The accommodation selected was great and the entire travel package put together by Jo and the team was brilliant. I would recommend Viva Expeditions to all my friends and family, I can certainly see why they are the South American experts.

Fantastic experience: Viva Expeditions were a perfect choice for our trip to South America! We had a group of 10 and needed flexible dates at a reasonable price, which is what Viva offered! Their customer service was flawless, they answered all of our questions promptly and went above and beyond to provide extra information and services. The tour itself provided knowledgeable tour guides, central accommodation in each city and detailed itineraries so we knew exactly what to expect! It was extremely well organised and we absolutely loved every second of our trip and have Viva to thank for that!

Fantastic experience: Very good website. Detailed and interesting. We will follow up on travel with you at some stage.