requirements to travel to antarctica

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Travel Advisory January 19, 2023

Antarctica - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with updates to health information.

• Exercise increased caution in Antarctica due to environmental hazards posed by extreme and unpredictable weather  and limited emergency services.
• The U.S. government is unable to provide consular services to U.S. citizens in the Antarctic Region. The closest U.S Embassies/Consulate s are in Argentina, Australia, Chile, New Zealand, and South Africa.  U.S. government resources in the Antarctic Region are committed to the U.S. Antarctic Program, per longstanding U.S. policy . 

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Antarctica.

If you travel to Antarctica:

• Obtain comprehensive travel, medical, and medical evacuation insurance; see our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage.
• Travel with a professional guide or organization such as those that are a member of the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators, or, if organizing a private expedition, be self-sufficient.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program ( STEP ) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations.  Review the Traveler’s Checklist .
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
• Read the Department of State’s COVID-19 page before planning any international travel.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• Contact the Department of State’s Office of Ocean and Polar Affairs for information at [email protected] .

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Quick Facts

Required by transit countries

May be required by transit countries.

None for Antarctica. May be required by transit countries.

Embassies and Consulates

The United States does not maintain an embassy or consulate in Antarctica. If you are in need of U.S. consular services while in Antarctica, contact the U.S. embassy or consulate in the country next on your itinerary or nearest to you for assistance. Links to the embassies and consulates most commonly called upon to provide services are below:

• U.S. Embassy Buenos Aires, Argentina
• U.S. Consulate General Melbourne, Australia
• U.S. Consulate General Perth, Australia
• U.S. Consulate General Sydney, Australia
• U.S. Embassy Santiago, Chile
• U.S. Consulate General Auckland, New Zealand          

24/7 Emergency Contact at the Department of State: From within the United States: 1-888-407-4747 From outside the United States: 1-202-501-4444

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

• Any expedition to the Antarctic Region could have an impact on the environment and its ecosystems.  To manage those risks and impacts, the Antarctic Treaty and the Protocol on Environmental Protection to the Antarctic Treaty establish certain obligations on the Treaty Parties with regard to expeditions to the Antarctic Treaty area.
• The Treaty obliges each Party to give advance notification of all expeditions to and within Antarctica, on the part of its ships, aircraft, or nationals, and all expeditions to Antarctica organized in or proceeding from its territory.
• U.S. tourists who have booked passage to Antarctica on a commercial cruise regulated by an Antarctic Treaty Party, such as those that are a member of the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators ( IAATO.org ), normally would be covered by the vessel operator’s and/or tour company’s advance notification. Always check with your tour operator about advance notification coverage.
• Any U.S. nationals organizing a private expedition to Antarctica in the United States, or proceeding to Antarctica from the United States,  should initiate the process by notifying the Department of State at least three months prior to the intended travel to the Antarctic Treaty area.  Contact the Department of State’s Office of Ocean and Polar Affairs for additional information at [email protected] .
• Visit the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators website for more information on visitor guidelines.

Find information on dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction and customs regulations on our websites.

Safety and Security

Environmental Hazards:

• The greatest threats to travelers to the Antarctic Region are environmental hazards posed by the severe elements and changeable weather.
• Among the more common threats are frostbite, dehydration, eye damage from reflected glare, overexposure to the sun, and maritime accidents.
• Additionally, emergency response capabilities including search and rescue are restricted due to limited availability, long distances, and environmental hazards.

See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage .

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

Once in a country, we can:

• Help you find appropriate medical care
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion
• Provide a list of local attorneys
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• Replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism:  No formal tourism industry infrastructure is in place on any level. Tourists are considered to be participating in activities at their own risk. Emergency response and subsequent appropriate medical treatment is not available in Antarctica. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage .

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: Some Treaty Parties, including those that claim territory in Antarctica, may seek to apply their laws to persons in Antarctica. Furthermore, some laws remain applicable to certain persons in Antarctica and may subject them to prosecution in the U.S.  For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained in transit to/from Antarctica, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately.  See our webpage for further information.

The Protocol on Environmental Protection to the Antarctica Treaty designates Antarctica as a natural reserve.  Additionally, the Antarctic Conservation Act , which protects native mammals, birds, plants, and their ecosystems, applies to all U.S. citizens and expeditions that originate from the United States.

• Several areas are afforded special protections as they have been designated as having ecological, scientific, historical, or other significance.
• It is forbidden to bring any non-native species into Antarctica. This includes live poultry, pet dogs and cats, and household plants or seeds.
• It is prohibited to take or harmfully interfere with Antarctica wildlife except in accordance with a permit issued by a national authority.

Antarctica has no public hospitals, pharmacies, or doctor’s offices.  Although cruise ships and land-based expeditions should have the capacity to treat minor ailments, medical emergencies often require evacuation to a country with modern medical facilities, which could require travel over a significant distance.  There is no guarantee that transportation would be available or that weather conditions would allow for transportation, even in an emergency.

• Search and rescue resources in Antarctica are extremely limited.   Cost of search and rescue efforts are borne by the person/s in need of the assistance.  Travelers should obtain comprehensive travel, medical, and medical evacuation insurance prior to departure; see our webpage for more information on overseas insurance coverage .
• There are no public utilities, such as phone or Internet service providers, in the Region.

We do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas.  Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments.  Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.

Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Air Quality: Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates

Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Adventure Travel .

Travel and Transportation

There is no direct air service from the United States to Antarctica.  Flights to and over Antarctica are operated from a number of countries to include Argentina, Australia, Chile, New Zealand, South Africa, and others.  If you are traveling to Antarctica, please check our country information page for the country from which you are departing to get more on aviation safety standards in that country.  Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Antarctica should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts .  Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the NGA broadcast warnings .  Due to maritime incidents, tourists have suffered severe injuries and/or death in the Antarctic Region and when traveling between South America and the Antarctica and in the Antarctic area. 

For additional travel information

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Antarctica Traveler View

Vaccines and medicines, stay healthy and safe, after your trip.

All travelers should be up-to-date on routine vaccines . These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot. The risk of flu , measles , mumps , and other diseases easily spread from person-to-person is related to travel and living conditions. People from all over the world may travel to Antarctica on cruise ships . Sharing close living quarters with people from many different places increases the risk of exposure to illnesses.

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

Other travel vaccines should be considered according to what countries you travel through on your way to Antarctica.

Visit your doctor (ideally, 4–6 weeks) before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need.

⇧ Top

For travelers to Antarctica, severe low temperatures and high winds are the primary health hazards. Antarctica is the coldest, windiest, and driest place on earth. Temperature patterns vary widely because the continent is covered in continuous darkness during the winter and continuous sunlight during the summer, with a few weeks of sunrises and sunsets between seasons.

The effects of the sun in Antarctica (because of the sun’s reflecting off the snow) can be damaging to the eyes and skin, and protective measures should be taken.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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• Travel Guide

Do You Need A Passport, Visa Or Permit To Go To Antarctica?

Do You Need Permission to Go to Antarctica?

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Traveling to the bottom of the world may seem complicated, but it’s actually pretty straightforward, despite Antarctica’s extreme remoteness. The chance to see the last great terrestrial wilderness on Earth—not just pristine and wild, but also breathtakingly beautiful—has made the White Continent among the most coveted of travel destinations, and more and more are making the trip (way) down.

We’ve covered the basic, big-picture logistics of visiting Antarctica in another article: from the main types of tours to the mandates and recommendations for visiting this singular realm conscientiously and ethically. In this guide, we’ll look at the subject of Antarctica entry requirements in more detail, running through some of the documents you’ll need—or won’t need—on your bucket-list journey to the White Continent.

Citizens of countries that are party to the Antarctic Treaty—which now includes more than 50—need a permit to visit Antarctica: a requirement established in 1998 with the Treaty’s Protocol on Environmental Protection adoption. But most visitors don’t have to really worry about how to get permission to go to Antarctica, because tour operators typically take care of the requisite permits. Folks who are taking the uncommon route of an independent trip to Antarctica, though, need to make sure they obtain permission.

Those residing in nations that aren’t party to the Antarctic Treaty might technically not need a permit to visit Antarctica, but there’s a catch: If they’re traveling via a tour operator based out of a country that is party to the Treaty, they will need a permit regardless of their citizenship. (Again, though, the tour company is almost assuredly taking care of that permission.)

Why do you need permission to go to Antarctica? It’s part of the Antarctic Treaty’s mission of safeguarding the White Continent’s environment: Permits help control tourism in this one-of-a-kind—and fragile—wilderness.

Seal looking at the ship approaching

It should be noted that the permits obtained by tour operators don’t provide you with unrestricted access. Travel on the Antarctic continent is highly regulated and restricted: a good thing not only for protecting the White Continent’s ecosystem, but also visitors themselves. Certain areas are closed to protect critical wildlife habitat such as seabird or pinniped rookeries, though these zones may be open to scientists with the requisite research permits and credentials. The Antarctic Treaty has established specific site guidelines for popular tourism spots in the Antarctic zone, which lay out how and where landfalling visitors can explore.

You’ll need a valid passport to visit Antarctica, as one is required by the countries through which you’ll pass to reach the White Continent. (Reading this is a good excuse to check your passport and make sure it’s not expired, or soon to be!)

Keep in mind you won’t find any foreign embassies in Antarctica proper, so if you happen to misplace your passport during the trip, you’ll need to contact your embassy in whatever country you’re headed for after the White Continent.

Do you need a visa to go to Antarctica? No, because no nation claims ownership over the White Continent. A visa, however, may be required for travel to the country from which you’re embarking to the Antarctic.

Emphasis on “may,” though: For example, American, British, Australian, and New Zealand passport holders don’t need a visa to travel out of Ushuaia, Argentina or Punta Arenas, Chile—the two top jumping-off points for Antarctica—if they’re not staying longer than 90 days. Those who want to tack on an extended exploration of South America as part of their Antarctic experience—a fabulous idea, if you have the time to spare—will likely need to get visas, though.

Not a daily occurance

There are no vaccination requirements per se for visiting Antarctica. That said, you may need proof of vaccination for certain entry countries or tour operators, and it’s a good idea to consult with your doctor for vaccine recommendations related to your travels before and after the White Continent. When it comes to COVID restrictions in Antarctica, here again you’ll be dealing with the specific requirements of the countries you’re traveling to as part of your trip and of the tour operator you’re signing on with.

Tour operators to Antarctica require you to purchase travel insurance, which helps cover such contingencies as emergency medical evacuations.

Those participating in longer cruises may have similar questions about the additional destinations visited en route to or from Antarctica proper. You’ll need a passport to travel to the Falklands and the Antarctic islands of South Georgia and the South Sandwich archipelago.

Citizens of a number of countries, including the U.S., Great Britain, Canada, Australia, Japan, and E.U. nations, don’t need a visa to visit the Falklands, nor do passengers of whatever nationality who are visiting via cruise ship. (Visitors who want to spend extended time in the Falklands are another story.) Land-based visitors to the Falklands need to possess a return ticket and proof of pre-booked lodgings and sufficient travel funds.

No visa is needed to visit South Georgia or the South Sandwich Islands, also commonly visited on Antarctic cruises.

Whilst we’re on the subject of permission required for Antarctica tourism purposes, visitors often ask about photography and drone use regulations. Drones and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) have downright exploded in popularity among both recreational and professional users, especially photographers and videographers. The International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) currently doesn’t allow the recreational use of drones or UAVs in Antarctica, though the subject is regularly reviewed and many suspect this ban will, at some point, be lifted or loosened in some form.

There are many potential problems with drone use in Antarctica: These devices may unintentionally disturb wildlife, and should they experience a malfunction—and they quite likely might, given the effects of the extreme Antarctic weather on their machinery—they could easily introduce manmade trash into the largely pristine and unpolluted environment.

Those who wish to employ drones/UAVs for research, filmmaking, or other specific purposes may, however,  apply for an Antarctica drone permit.

Commercial photographers and filmmakers may need permits to shoot certain places in Antarctica, but recreational photography is permitted.

Penguins hunting

We’ve spelled out the Antarctica passport requirements, which in fact are the passport requirements of the countries through which you’re traveling and the tour companies you’re using in order to reach the White Continent. (By the way, you can often obtain a souvenir Antarctica passport stamp from certain research stations, though it’s a good idea to use such stamps on, say, the pages of your travel journal rather than in your actual passport.)

We’d be remiss not mentioning a keepsake sort of Antarctic passport that you can acquire whether or not you physically travel to these polar wilds: the Antarctica World Passport. This is an unofficial digital document celebrating the unique status of Antarctica that was conceived by artists Lucy and Jorge Orta (also known for raising a supranational, multicolored Antarctic Flag on the White Continent in 2007).

It’s “a universal passport for a continent without borders,” as the project’s website describes , one partly meant to also raise awareness about climate change. As of this writing, nearly 43,000 people around the globe have acquired one of these Antarctica passports—maybe you’ll be next!

Compared to some travel destinations, the documentation you’ll be required to have along with you on a trip to Antarctica is on the minimal side. The most important things you need for a getaway to the White Continent? All things considered, probably a sense of adventure, the capacity to be awed by the grandeur of the primal Earth, and a commitment to traveling lightly and respecting the physical and biotic elements of the utterly remarkable Antarctic environment. And, hopefully, that sounds like you!

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Our travel guides are for informational purposes only. While we aim to provide accurate and up-to-date information, Antarctica Cruises makes no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information in our guides or found by following any link on this site.

Antarctica Cruises cannot and will not accept responsibility for any omissions or inaccuracies, or for any consequences arising therefrom, including any losses, injuries, or damages resulting from the display or use of this information.

Ready for the adventure of a lifetime?

Get in touch with us via phone or form today and you’ll be assigned a dedicated Antarctica specialist who’ll be with you every step of the way to help you choose, book and plan the right Antarctica cruise for you. Here’s how it works:

Listen & Match

We’ll carefully listen to your aspirations and curate an impartial shortlist of personalized polar cruise recommendations—and pre- and post-cruise extensions—to match your desired experience.

Reserve & Relax

Next we’ll place a free, no obligation, 24-hour cabin hold on your preferred cruise option whilst we discuss the final details. Book and relax safe in the knowledge you’ll be paying the lowest price guaranteed.

Prepare & Travel

Then we’ll provide you with our expert packing advice, insider travel tips, and more to ensure you are fully prepared for—and maximize your enjoyment of—your once-in-a-lifetime Antarctica expedition.

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TRAVEL to ANTARCTICA – Tips and Information Guide (2024 Update)

Here is our complete guide to tell you everything you need to know to travel to Antarctica, based on our experiences of visiting and working on the White Continent six times. 

It may just be the number one bucket list adventure for millions of people around the world – travelling to Antarctica!

The remoteness and expense of this incredible destination makes it an unrealised dream for many, but we’re here to help you on your journey to experience it for yourself!

The White Continent is a truly unique place. From its phenomenal landscapes to diverse wildlife, nowhere else on the planet comes close to its beauty.

And that’s not the only things that make it unique. From a political point of view, did you know that there it is the only continent on earth with no official government and no permanent residents?

That’s because in 1959 a couple of countries signed a treaty that over 40 nations follow to this day.

Visiting Antarctica is an experience that everyone should have at least once in their lifetime.

Whether you would love to hang around with emperor penguins or go  kayaking in the company of humpback whales , or perhaps even climb one of the world’s seven highest summits, there are plenty of reasons to want to pack your bags and  t ravel to Antarctica !

So read carefully and find out why you should stock up on chocolate, what you should bring on your expedition and how to make the most of your trip!

Antarctica Travel Guide

We’ve been lucky enough to travel to Antarctica 6 times, with more trips booked in the near future, and we can safely say it was by the far the most incredible place we have ever visited.

That being said, it’s not an easy trip to make, and it’s especially not a cheap one, so if you’re lucky enough to have the opportunity to embark on a voyage, you’ll be one of only 100,000 people a year that actually visit!

In order to get the most out of your trip you need to be well prepared, so make sure to read through our detailed and informative  Antarctica Travel Guide .

After our very successful tour to Antarctica this season, we are going to be running another exclusive adventure down to the Peninsula in 2025, this time crossing the Antarctic Circle! Check out the  tour page  if you’d like to learn more.

Planning on exploring other parts of the polar regions? Don’t miss our brand new complete guide to help you  travel to South Georgia !

Best Antarctica Cruise – Ultimate Guide to Who & How [2024]

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Here are the basics about travel to Antarctica.

Main Destinations

South Shetland Islands, Port Lockroy, Errera Channel, Lemaire Channel, King George Island

Primarily USD on ships.

ENTRY / VISA:

Visitors to Antarctica do not require a visa, however permits are necessary. These will be acquired on your behalf by the tour operator you are travelling with.

English, Spanish, Russian and others depending on the bases.

Travelling to Antarctica comes with inherent risks such as cold weather exposure and possible wildlife encounters. The remoteness of the destination means medical assistance is not instant. All tour operators have trained medical professionals onboard and will mitigate risks to the best of their ability.

ELECTRICITY:

Depends on the ship you are travelling on.

TRANSPORTATION:

The only commercial airport is on King George Island, with charter flights available from Punta Arenas, Chile. Transport around the continent for tourists is primarily done onboard expedition ships and zodiacs.

Don’t Forget to Pack the Most Important Thing: Travel Insurance !

TOP 5 TRAVEL EXPERIENCES IN ANTARCTICA

With so much to see and do in Antarctica, it really is hard to pick the top experiences.

However, we think that to truly appreciate Antarctica you need to plan to do these 5 activities during your visit.

Step Foot on the Continent

The quintessential experience for anybody visiting Antarctica is to officially step foot on the seventh continent. Make sure you book a tour on a ship that carries less than 500 people (less than 200 ideally) to ensure you can do this.

See our recommended Antarctica cruise operators here .

Go Kayaking or SUPing

Zodiac cruises and shore landings are incredible, but nothing quite beat the silence and connection to nature that you get from kayaking!

Read about how to go kayaking in Antarctica .

Camp Under the Stars

If you love adventure and want real bragging rights, you need to experience the fun of camping the night amongst penguins and icebergs.

Learn about camping in Antarctica .

Do the Polar Plunge

Who would jump off of a perfectly good ship into the frigid Southern Ocean? You, you absolute badass! And you’ll get pictures to prove it.

Zodiac Cruise with Whales

In our opinion, the zodiac cruises you take in Antarctica are often better than the shore landings, particularly if you have epic wildlife encounters. Travel late season for humpback whales!

How to Get to Antarctica

EXCLUSIVE – We have partnered with the world’s top polar tour operator, Quark Expeditions, to offer readers of NOMADasaurus a very special deal on any trip to Antarctica or the Arctic! Contact us ([email protected]) if you’d like to learn more.

READ MORE: Check out our latest guide on how to choose the  best Antarctica cruise !

Departures from South America

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• Puta Arenas in Chile
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• Santiago in Chile

Departures from New Zealand & Australia

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What to Wear in Antarctica – Ultimate Travel Packing List

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There are plenty of amazing places to visit in Antarctica, and while you are limited to where the ship can go based on weather conditions and permits, every location is sure to blow your mind.

At just 1600m wide, the Lemaire Channel is one of the most spectacular vistas on the entire Antarctic Peninsula. Navigating through is never guaranteed, but if conditions allow, it’s an experience you’ll never forget.

Cuverville Island

Cuverville Island lies between the Errera Channel and the Gerlache Strait, and is home to over 7,000 breeding pairs of gentoo penguins.

Deception Island

Deception Island is the caldera of an active volcano, and skilled captains can sail their expedition ships right into the heart of it. It is home to an old, abandoned whaling station.

Hanusse Bay, Antarctic Circle

Hanusse Bay lies south of the Antarctic Circle, and is a wintry, iceberg-riddled and wildlife-dense location on the Peninsula.

Visa Requirements for Antarctica

Antarctica doesn’t belong to any one government or jurisdiction, and for that reason, no visas are required.

That being said though citizens of nations that have signed the Antarctica Treaty’s Protocol on Environment Protection (USA, Canada, EU and Australia) are required to get prior permission before visiting.

Don’t worry though, as this is organised through your licensed tour operator.

5 Interesting Facts About Antarctica

• It’s the coldest continent in the world, with the temperatures in wintertime dropping below -73°C (-100°F). The lowest temperature ever recorded on Earth was in Antarctica, and it was a very balmy -89.2°C (-128.6°F).
• There are no permanent residents of Antarctica, only transit residents (around 1,000), that are usually scientists or workers living in different research stations spread all over Antarctica
• Since Antarctica is situated in the southern hemisphere, winter is from May to October, and summer is from November to April.
• Antarctica is actually a desert! That might be surprising to a lot of people, because when we think of deserts we think of hot, dry, large sand surfaces. Since it doesn’t rain or snow in Antarctica it’s considered a polar desert.
• Antarctica holds 90% of the world’s fresh water!

Keen to learn more? Check out our full list of our favourite  facts about Antarctica !

The Best Time to Travel to Antarctica

Unless you are working for a government organisation, the only time to travel to Antarctica is in the summer.

But what month should you visit in? Well that depends on what you want to see, and what your expectations are.

Read our complete guide on the  best time to visit Antarctica , or read on for more information.

Some may argue that early season is actually the best time to visit Antarctica, because you can see it in its most undisturbed form.

After the long, cold winter, the landscape is covered in a fresh blanket of snow and ice, leaving everything looking clean and pristine (and quite other-worldy).

In terms of wildlife it’s possible to see whales, but not as much as later in the season as the water temperatures are still too cold.

If you visit at this time of year though expect to see lots of penguins, seals and birds.

The main downside to coming in November is that the temperatures are lower and polar ice is still breaking up, which means some areas of the continent are not accessible.

Peak Season – December to February

The peak season coincides with the brief summer, and is by far the most popular time to visit the continent.

Temperatures are at their highest and you get up to 20 hours of sunlight a day!

Whales are starting to visit the waters, baby penguins are plentiful, the birdlife is incredible and you’ll have a much better chance at seeing Antarctica with blue skies.

When we say it is the most popular time to visit though, we mean it. While the tour operators are strictly controlled to where and when they can visit certain areas, you may see other ships around and the foot traffic at the popular spots like Deception Island is much higher.

March to Early April

Late summer in Antarctica is the best time for whale spotting, and while a lot of the other animals have started their migration, you’ll see huge amounts of humpbacks, whales and minkes frolicking in the waters.

This time of year you will have access to almost all areas as the polar ice would have melted.

But with the temperatures slowly starting to drop as the season transitions to winter, it can be unpredictable, and snow storms are more frequent.

We personally believe travelling in the shoulder season is best!

Travel Itineraries Suggestions

When you book your trip to Antarctica your itinerary is more or less determined by whichever journey you sign up for. You can’t deviate from this, so it’s important to pick an itinerary that encompasses everything you’d like to see and do.

Most standard Antarctica itineraries start and finish in Ushuaia, and go for 10 days. This includes 2 days each way to cross the Drake Passage, and a few days exploring the Antarctic Peninsula.

If you have more time, and would like to see extra places, we recommend looking for a voyage that visits the Falkland Islands and South Georgia as well. These kind of trips usually last for around 17-20 days.

These archipelagos have tremendous wildlife viewing opportunities, and are filled with fascinating history, such as the story of Sir Ernest Shackleton.

If you want a very in-depth Antarctic Peninsula adventure, you can look at crossing the Antarctic Circle, but only a few select companies do this mission.

We crossed the Circle in 2024 with Quark Expeditions and it was an incredible experience.

Budget for Travelling to Antarctica

We’re going to level with you – A tour to Antarctica is not cheap.

But when you compare everything you get to see and do, as well the remote location of the destination and just what is involved on an expedition, it is actually quite fair.

You can expect to spend anywhere from USD$500 per day right up to $3,000 per day, and this depends completely on the itinerary, the company and the type of berth you want to sleep in on the ship.

If you’re looking to save money on an Antarctica tour, the only way you can do this is to book a ticket last-minute.

Different Styles of Antarctica Tour Packages

When you’re doing your research on trips to Antarctica you might be amazed to see a huge difference in price from one company to the next. So why the fluctuation?

This often comes down to two things – the quality of the ship you will be travelling on, and the reputation of the company.

Cheap Antarctica Tours

Not all companies are created equal, and you need to take this into consideration when booking your trip. If a tour company is super cheap, there’s probably a reason for that.

The service of leaders and staff might not be as good, the ship might be much older, and you might only get a limited number of days on the actual continent.

We’ve seen trips for as cheap as USD$5000. Remember though, you get what you pay for.

Our Secret Tip –  Want to go with a reputable and responsible company to Antarctica, but aren’t ready to pay huge amounts? Book the cheapest cabin on the ship.

You still get the exact same service, same guides, same destinations, same activities, except you’re not paying a huge amount for a fancy room. And the truth is you won’t be spending much time in your cabin anyway, so save your money and just book a cheap berth with a good company.

There are plenty of luxury cruise ships that visit Antarctica, and if this is what you’re into, then perfect.

These ships will have all the creature comforts you’d expect to find on a high-end cruise ship, with hot tubs, swimming pools, masseuses, elevators, etc.

Luxury Antarctic cruises might include charter flight tickets to the Ushuaia too, so you can avoid any complicated flight itineraries and add maximum comfort during your trip.

Sometimes they are part of longer South America trips that start in places like Montevideo in Uruguay or Buenos Aires, and finishing up in Valparaiso in Chile.

But these tailor-made experiences comes at a hefty price, which can go up to $25’000 (or more)!

Is this the best way to visit Antarctica? In our opinion, sometimes – it depends.

You do get what you pay for. You’ll have a newer, better ship with nicer cabins, higher quality food and potentially more experienced expedition staff.

We’ve travelled at both ends of the spectrum – on super budget trips with companies like Intrepid, and high-end luxury ships with Quark Expeditions.

Both had their pros and cons. It comes down to your budget.

Last Minute Antarctica Cruises

So what about these last minute Antarctica cruises that people talk about? Is it really possible to cruise to Antarctica for less than USD$5000?

Short answer, yes. However last minute means last minute, and you’ll often have to travel to Ushuaia and register your interest with a number of tour operators in the town.

If an opening comes up (such as someone cancelling their trip) you’ll be on a waiting list to join the tour. But you may only be given a day or two’s notice, and you may end up spending a week or more down in Ushuaia waiting to hear.

A family we met managed to score some last-minute Antarctica tickets after waiting more than 3 weeks in Patagonia, and when they got the word that it was happening they had 36 hours to drop everything and get to Ushuaia in time to jump onboard.

If you have the time and funds to stay down in southern Patagonia for a few weeks this can be a viable way to visit Antarctica cheaply.

Can I Work on a Cruise Ship to Antarctica?

Yes, you absolutely can. But the idea that you can literally just show up at the dock and get a job cleaning rooms or working in a kitchen is unfortunately not true.

The employees of these companies have months of training and maritime-grade certifications before they are sent on a trip to Antarctica and often have to sign long contracts.

Sorry, to be bearer of bad news, but no, y ou can’t show up in Ushuaia and get a one-off job on a cruise to Antarctica.

Insider’s Tip – Book A Small Group Expedition

Very few people know this when booking their travels to Antarctica, but if you end up on a ship that has more than 200 passengers onboard, your time on the continent is severely limited!

That’s because IAATO rules states that no more than 200 people from any one voyage can get off the ship at any one time, and no more than 100 people can step foot on the continent at once, so if your tour has more than this, you’ll end up spending a lot of time waiting on the ship while the other group is off exploring.

If you have between 100-200 people onboard, you do what’s known in the industry as a ‘split landing’ – basically half the group go ashore while the other half zodiac cruise, then you swap midway through the excursion.

In our expert opinion this isn’t a bad thing. We personally prefer zodiac cruising anyway.

Even worse though, if you end up booking a large cruise ship with more than 500 people onboard, IAATO regulations mean nobody gets off the ship.

That means you won’t even get the chance to do anything more other than simply look at the landscapes from afar.

And while this is still pretty amazing, in our opinion you’re paying all this money to go there – you may as well actually step foot on Antarctica!

Here’s an article to give you some more  tips on how to choose a tour.

Top 5 Places to Visit in Antarctica

Antarctica is one of the most isolated places in the world and as such it has managed to maintain its pristine nature with minimum human impact (although climate change is reeking havoc down there).

For anyone wishing to enjoy the dramatic landscapes covered in polar ice and beautiful wildlife, make sure your cruise includes our top places to visit in Antarctica!

The Lemaire Channel

The Lemaire Channel is a narrow passage on the Antarctic Peninsula that is stunningly beautiful to navigate. On all sides you’ll be surrounded by towering peaks, tumbling glaciers and glistening icebergs.

It’s also a dream come true for marine life lovers, as you can spot all kinds of seals and even whales, including humpbacks and orcas!

No matter how cold it gets, we guarantee you won’t go below the deck in fear you might miss something!

Deception Island always proves to be a highlight of people’s travels to Antarctica as it is incredibly beautiful, and has a human element to it with the old whaling station.

But why the name Deception Island? That’s because even though it looks like just an island, it’s actually a caldera of an active volcano!

The waters here are a tad warmer than the rest of the seas around, making it a popular spot for people to do the polar plunge.

Vernadsky Research Station

No trip to Antarctica would be complete without spending some time at a functioning science base, and luckily you can do just that at Vernadsky Research Station!

This Ukrainian-run base has a lot of history, and today the scientists working there open their doors to visitors.

It’s even home to the southern-most bar in the world! Read all about it in our article about  Vernadsky Research Station.

South Shetland Islands

The South Shetland Islands are a small group of islands about 120km north of the Antarctic Peninsula.

Their location makes them one of the most visited places on the peninsula, and they are a great place to visit in Antarctica because of the huge population of elephant seals and penguins.

South Georgia and the Sandwich Islands

While  South Georgia  and the Sandwich Islands don’t actually belong to Antarctica (they are part of the United Kingdom), we couldn’t write a list about the top places to visit without mentioning this place.

It has been called the Serengeti of the Southern Ocean due to the abundance of wildlife that congregates there.

You can see hundreds of thousands of king penguins hanging out on beaches, 4-tonne elephant seals battling each other for mates and the largest bird in the world, the Wandering Albatross.

South Georgia can be included on a few Antarctic cruise itineraries, so if you have the time we highly recommend visiting.

Top 5 Travel Experiences in Antarctica

So what exactly is there to do in Antarctica? Plenty!

We wrote this comprehensive guide on the  best things to do in Antarctica , but let us break down some of the highlights here.

Camping Under the Stars

Yes it is entirely possible to go  camping in Antarctica , but only if you join the right tour operator that provides the right gear.

It might sound risky because of the extreme weather conditions, but that’s why you should only do it with a company that takes all safety measures seriously.

You will sleep in winter-grade bivvy sacks with high-quality sleeping bags, and the expedition leaders will monitor the weather systems closely to make sure that it’ll be the optimum evening to do so.

The adventure won’t seem as challenging once night sets and you get thrown into a daze by views of the open sky and stars, with zero light pollution around to hide the universe.

Laying under the stars and waking up to the sun rising over the vast snowy landscape will be etched into your mind forever.

Take the Polar Plunge

How does swimming in the world’s coldest place sound to you? Well you can do just that in Antarctica, and it’s an experience that’ll give you the ultimate bragging rights.

Whether you’re jumping from a boat or do a sprint into the icy waters at the beach on Deception Island, it’s going to be frigidly cold. But the pain only lasts a minute, and you’ll have expert guides around you to warm you up with blankets and hot chocolate.

Climb Mount Vinson

For those that want a serious adventure, and have the skills to go with it, why not consider climbing the tallest mountain in Antarctica, Mount Vinson!

The mountain is 4897m high, but of course this isn’t for the average traveller to Antarctica, and you won’t find a standard cruise ship that goes there.

It’s one of the world’s seven highest summits, making it a must-do for any mountaineer looking to achieve the Holy Grail.

Kayaking With Whales

Sea kayaking in Antarctica is one of the best adventure activities on the continent, and it’s easy to see why.

Surrounded by icebergs, calm waters and huge glaciers, you can spend hours paddling around, being constantly amazed at the scenery.

This is the best way to get closer to Antarctica’s rich marine life, and if you’re really lucky, you might even have a close encounter with a humpback whale!

Hanging Out With Penguins

Hanging out with penguins is everyone’s number one item on their Antarctica bucket list.

There are six types of penguins living in Antarctica and they are one of the few animals on the continent that is pretty much a guarantee to see no matter when you go!

The guideline on interacting with wildlife on Antarctica is that you have to keep your distance, at least 5 meters away from all wildlife, but if they approach you that’s no problem!

These friendly birds are very unfamiliar with humans, so chances are they will come right up to you if you just hang out and wait.

Transport in Antarctica

Unless you’re working on a research station, the only form of transport you’ll get to experience in Antarctica is the floating kind.

Cruise or Expedition Ships

The main mode of transport in Antarctica is by ship, and you have a couple of different options – A luxury cruise ship, or a research expedition ship.

Cruise ships are comfortable and luxurious, but they might also lack the character and sense of adventure that you’d expect from a place like Antarctica.

We most recently travelled on a  polar expedition vessel called the Ultramarine , and it was amazing in that they were conducting real-life science research as we went.

Zodiacs (Inflatable Rubber Boats)

This is the most common, and fun way, to get your way around Antarctica.

They are used for getting from your ship to shore, or for just exploring around the gorgeous seas. They are open-air, which means you’re exposed to the elements, so make sure you wear plenty of protective gear.

We’ve already spoken about kayaks before, but if you have the chance to paddle around the continent you should definitely take it!

Safety in Antarctica

While Antarctica truly delivers on the promise of untouched nature and rich wildlife, one should seriously prepare to be exposed to the harsh climate and one of the most dangerous environments in the world.

But don’t stress too much about it – Chances are you’ll only be travelling to Antarctica in the summer, where the temperatures are warmer anyway.

Plus all Antarctic tours have qualified and experienced medical staff onboard, so you’ll be in safe hands.

Rough Sea Weather

When crossing the Drake Passage, which is a gruelling 48-hour journey, there’s a chance that you will encounter some rough sea weather.

Don’t worry though, because expedition ships are designed to charge through even the most turbulent of seas, so even though you might feel scared, the boats are absolutely fine.

If you’re prone to sea sickness you can take strong medication to help, or if you’re absolutely petrified we suggest booking a trip that has a flight to King George Island instead of boarding the cruise ship in Ushuaia or Punta Arenas.

Walking On Ice

The key to crossing the icy sections of the continent are to have good quality boots.

Sometimes the tour operator will supply you with these boots, but make sure you do your research before you show up.

The guide will offer you some practical advice how to walk across icy sections. Usually those instructions consist of keeping a slow pace and short, confident steps where you plant your feet.

Harsh Climate

The main issue travellers to Antarctica will come across is the harsh climate, so make sure you come prepared.

You need to pack all the necessities before you come, because the right clothing is the most important factor in whether you will have a good time or not.

Learn to layer up, because the temperature can change rapidly, and the last thing you want is to have one giant, warm coat on when the sun comes out, meaning all you have underneath is a t-shirt.

The expedition leaders will keep an eye on the weather to help keep you safe in Antarctica.

Cruise Ship Safety

Most incidents that happen to cruise ships in Antarctica involves the pack ice, but this is an extremely rare occurrence in this day and age.

It’s important to know that your tour operator evaluates all risks and manages the trip around perceived hazards. Safety is their number one priority.

Today we’re able to predict icebergs, pack ice and unexposed hazards with forward-scanning sonar and ice radars, and all cruise ships have them in use.

Medical System in Antarctica

All tour operators have a medical team on-board for any possible health issues you may encounter.

The only thing up to the traveller to take care of is to make sure you get the proper vaccinations before the expedition.

The vaccines that you should be up-to-date on are:

• Measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine
• Diphteria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine
• Varicella (chickenpox) vaccine
• Polio vaccine

The risk of acquiring of any of those diseases comes from the fact that they’re easily spread from person to person, and the close living quarters.

You will be sharing same space with people from many different parts of the world which carries an increased risk of contracting a disease.

Packing List for Antarctica

Making sure to pack everything you need for your Antarctica travels is the most vital part of your travel preparations.

Some of the tour operators will supply you with adequate waterproof jacket, pants and boots, but make sure to check with them.

Check out our detailed guide on  what to wear in Antarctica  to get you prepared.

Men And Women

• Waterproof jacket
• Waterproof pants
• Boots (with the most grip)
• Thermal underwear
• Thermal socks x2
• Merino wool socks x3
• T-shirts x4
• Long sleeve shirt x1
• Hooded jumper x1
• Down jacket x1
• Wind/rain jacket x1
• Glove liners x1 pair
• Ski gloves x1 pair
• Buff bandana x2
• Sunglasses x1

Miscellaneous Items

• Camera (here’s  our list of the absolute best travel cameras on the market )
• Wide angle & zoom lens
• Spare batteries x4
• SD memory cards x4
• Waterproof cases for electronics

Travel Tips To Antarctica

• Wear layers! In some moments when you physically exert yourself you will start feeling a bit hot so then you should take off a layer. Later on when you feel cold again just put it back on – it’s important to regulate the body temperature.
• Invest in your camera equipment! This is a trip that most people only take once in their lifetime – you want to be sure to  make memorable photos of it.
• When booking your cruise make sure that somewhere it says ‘step foot on the continent’ because some cruise ships don’t allow passengers to leave the vessel!
• Think of flying to Buenos Aries before connecting to Ushuaia. It might end up a cheaper and you can arrive a day or two earlier to explore Buenos Aries.
• Buy a  good travel insurance policy ! Antarctica is so isolated and unpredictable that your travel policy should always include an emergency evacuation charge!

Table of Contents

Read our antarctica blog posts, the best time to visit antarctica – month by month breakdown.

Ask LP: how can I travel to Antarctica?

Oct 7, 2020 • 3 min read

Antarctica's tourist season starts in November © DreamPictures / Getty Images

The far south of the world may have escaped the pandemic that’s locked down life elsewhere, but that doesn’t mean this summer season is smooth sailing. Antarctica has no cases of COVID-19  – partly due to efforts to keep it that way, and partly reflecting the restrictions placed on other countries. This impacts scientists who make up the temporary residents of the continent and also threatens the Antarctic tourist season, which generally runs from November to March or April.

In a normal year, travelers would converge on Ushuaia (Argentina), Punta Arenas (Chile), and, less frequently, ports in New Zealand and Australia to embark on the long journey south. The shortest route – across the swells and choppy waters of the Drake Passage from South America – takes two to three days to reach the Antarctic Peninsula . Air options like DAP’s overnight trips to King George Island in the South Shetland Islands ($6500 per person from Punta Arenas, Chile) usually gives another way to reach the far south from South America for a more limited time. Services are currently suspended.

There are two big obstacles to getting to Antarctica this year. One is the lack of cruises – most operators have cancelled their schedules for the remainder of the this year and early next year. If cruises can happen at all this season it will be towards the end of the usual period of operation. Hurtigruten has cancelled Antarctica departures until January 2021, but hopes to resume operations then. 

The other is the inaccessibility of gateway destinations. At the time of writing there’s no way into Chile , Argentina , New Zealand and Australia for foreign tourists. All these countries have closed their borders to non-nationals since March, and Argentina has recently paused plans to allow international flights back into the country until at least October 11. In all likelihood, this will be longer. Sub-Antarctic destinations have their own entry restrictions. The Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas) are only accessible for essential travel with reduced air links. In order to reach Antarctica, any departing travelers heading south would need to transit Argentina (or one of the other jumping-off countries) and transfer directly to their cruise ship. As you’d expect there’s no confirmed plan for this at present. 

Adding all this up, 2020–21 may be a better time to save for a future Antarctic odyssey. However knock-on demand for 2021–22 is likely to be strong, as capacity is always limited and there is an Antarctic solar eclipse in November next year. That said, specialist travel companies are also keen to encourage booking, and deals for next year are available through experts like Discover the World .

One way for ice-cap enthusiasts to get their fix from Australia is to take a seat on one of the  scenic overflights of the continent run by Antarctica Flights . These 12 hour journeys – using a 787 Dreamliner for the first time – depart from various Australian airports from November to March. They don’t touch down and therefore count as a domestic charter flight. Currently there is not a requirement to wear a mask on these flights.

You might also like:

Is it sustainable to visit Antarctica?    How to pack for a trip to Antarctica    The eternal lure of icebergs: fulfilling a life-long dream of visiting Antarctica   

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How to Visit Antarctica

From how to get there to what to pack, here's what you need to know about visiting Antarctica.

Meena Thiruvengadam is a lifelong traveler and veteran journalist who has visited more than 50 countries across six continents. Her writing has appeared in The Wall Street Journal , Departures , TripSavvy , and other publications.

There is at least one place left on earth where you really can disconnect: Antarctica.

There is no mobile phone service. There are no town squares, no restaurants, and no tourist traps. The local "airports" are really just ice or gravel landing strips.

Antarctica is nearly twice the size of Australia and mostly covered with a thick sheet of ice. It's one of the most remote destinations in the world and the trip of a lifetime for many travelers. It's also easier to travel to Antarctica than one might think.

Lars-Eric Lindblad first took a group of 57 visitors to Antarctica in 1966. "At that time it was more or less like accomplishing a moon landing," his son Sven-Olof Lindblad said. "In those days, we were not as prepared as we are now. There were no satellite ice charts. You were not that different navigationally from the early explorers."

Even now it can be hard to really understand Antarctica. It is the coldest and windiest place on earth and, by some measures, the driest. It has no currency of its own. It is a desert with no trees, no bushes, and no permanent residents. More meteorites are found in Antarctica than in any other place in the world.

"Antarctica is about the wildest place you can go on the planet," Lindblad said.

It's also an increasingly popular place to visit. According to the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators , tourism more than doubled from 2010 to 2020.

"The conversation around climate change has elevated people's interest and created a sense of urgency," Lindblad said.

The Best Times to Go to Antarctica

The Antarctic travel season lasts from November through March, the Antarctic summer. Temperatures are often below freezing at this time of year, especially in the continent's interior, but they can reach as high as 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

The best time for penguin spotting is late December or early January. Wait too long and previously pristine penguin colonies get dirty and smelly, said Nik Horncastle , a regional specialist with Audley Travel. For peak whale watching, try February or March.

Other activities, including snowshoeing, kayaking, skiing, camping, snorkeling, diving, and visits to historic sites from earlier expeditions, can be experienced throughout the season.

How to Get to Antarctica

One of the more common routes to Antarctica is by ship via Ushuaia, a city at the southern tip of Argentina. Several companies, including Hurtigruten Expeditions , Quark Expeditions , and Lindblad's namesake Lindblad Expeditions , specialize in Antarctic and polar cruising, offering journeys that range in length from just over a week to a full month and beyond.

On board, expect to mingle with scientists, naturalists, historians, and underwater specialists. "The onboard experience is a conversation around where you are and what does this place mean," Lindblad said. Internet service via satellite is available but comes with a hefty price tag.

Antarctica is one place where smaller boats offer a big advantage. "We don't recommend a boat over 200 people," Horncastle said. "Big boats can only stop at a few sites."

That said, if you want to visit Antarctica on a traditional cruise line, many major carriers can get you there — often on vessels that adhere to that fewer-than-200-guests rule of thumb. Some more affordable lines, like Norwegian and Royal Caribbean , stick to "cruise-only" itineraries, which sail along the Antarctic coast (and offer great views in the process) but don't allow disembarkation on the continent. A number of others, though, from Viking Cruises and Disney Cruise Line to Ponant and Silversea , take passengers right into the Antarctic interior, thanks to on-shore excursions and ships with icebreaker capabilities.

Booking an Antarctica Expedition

Expect to spend between $6,000 and $50,000 to visit Antarctica, depending on the length of the trip and the level of luxury you seek.

"It's an expensive trip," Horncastle said — but there are options if you're traveling on a budget.

Intrepid Travel and G Adventures both specialize in affordable trips to Antarctica, and neither requires single supplements for solo travelers. If you don't feel the need to set foot on the continent, you can also opt for a sightseeing flight. These flights, which cut costs by flying over Antarctica without stopping there, are available from most major cities in Australia at prices that start around $1,200 per person.

To both fly over and step onto the continent, Antarctica21 combines a two-hour flight from Chile with cruises that passengers can board in Antarctica. While this option doesn't give visitors the chance to cruise the famous Drake Passage, it does save time and minimize the risk of seasickness.

"The Drake Passage is a crossing full of unpredictable conditions," said Antarctica21's Francesco Contini. "When the crossing is rough, passengers tend to be not very comfortable."

Packing List for Antarctica

• Knee-high waterproof boots
• Waterproof pants
• A warm parka
• Waterproof gloves
• Warm base layers
• Extra socks
• A tight-fitting beanie
• A warm scarf
• A camera and lenses
• Seasickness medication

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• Environment

Visiting Antarctica

This guide sets out who has to apply for a permit, how to apply and explains the other rules covering travel to Antarctica.

Requirements for visiting Antarctica

The Antarctic Treaty signed in Washington on 1 December 1959 preserves the Antarctic continent for peaceful and scientific use.

The Antarctic Treaty’s Protocol on Environmental Protection, signed in 1991, is the only international agreement designed to protect an entire continent. It ensures that all human activity in Antarctica is carefully planned and managed. It enables a range of human activity to take place in Antarctica including scientific research, well-managed, environmentally sensitive tourism, and exploration. Crucially, the Protocol prohibits commercial mining and protects vulnerable areas, animals and plants.

The Antarctic Treaty does not prevent tourists, military personnel or scientific researchers from being present in Antarctica, but they do require an appropriate permit from a Treaty Party.

Permit criteria

Anyone on a British expedition to Antarctica or taking a British vessel or aircraft into Antarctica will need to apply for a permit from the Polar Regions Department of the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ).

A British expedition is one organised in the UK (including a British overseas territory, or a Crown Dependency) or one where the last place of departure for Antarctica is the UK, a British overseas territory, or a Crown Dependency. ‘Expedition’ consists of a single person or group, undertaking a tour or journey of any purpose, including activities such as landing ashore, skiing, kayaking, small boat activities, climbing, diving or any related activity. A British (including OT or Crown Dependency) flagged vessel or registered aircraft also requires a permit even if the expedition is organised elsewhere.

You do not need a permit for:

• ships or aircraft travelling to an immediate destination outside Antarctica
• fishing vessels, unless they are conducting research fishing or are carrying out functions related to an expedition
• expeditions organised in and authorised in writing by another contracting party (country) to the Environmental Protocol to the Antarctic Treaty

If you plan to undertake commercial fishing activity in the Southern Ocean, you must seek separate authorisation for your vessel, as set out in the guidelines to CCAMLR fisheries for British registered vessels fishing for profit .

It is also unlikely that you will need a permit if you are a passenger on an organised visit to Antarctica, as your tour operator would usually arrange this. However you should confirm this with them before travelling. Contact the Polar Regions Department if you are unsure.

Applying for a permit

You should submit applications for permits as far in advance as possible. This should be at least 4 months for a new or unusual application, or at least 2 months before the date of your departure if you have previously obtained a permit for summer activities. Late applications may not be considered.

Organisers must demonstrate that they are sufficiently prepared for a visit to Antarctica. You should discuss your plans informally with the Polar Regions Department before you begin completing the permit application. This is especially important if your expedition involves specialist activities such as extreme sports, extended trips or multiple transport options.

Consistent with the agreement by the Antarctic Treaty Parties, the UK will not authorise operators organising or conducting tourist or other non-government activities to undertake any off-ship activities in Antarctica from vessels carrying more than 500 passengers. Exceptions will be made in cases of emergency and for the purpose of enhancing human safety. The UK will also not normally authorise the use of helicopters for recreational purposes in areas with concentrations of wildlife, including the Antarctic Peninsula region.

It should also be noted that for safety reasons the UK will not authorise snorkelling activities in the Antarctic.

Applying for a permit to conduct research fishing

You must conduct research fishing in the Antarctic Treaty Area in accordance with the Convention for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR), in particular its Conservation Measure 24-01 .

Research fishing under paragraph 2 of CM24-01 involves taking less than 50 tonnes of finfish. If you are proposing to conduct research fishing under paragraph 2, you must:

• confirm that you will comply with all relevant CCAMLR Conservation Measures
• confirm that you will meet the requirements of CCAMLR Conservation Measure 24-01
• complete an Expedition Permit Application Form and submit this to the Polar Regions Department
• provide the information required in CM 24-01 Annex A, Format 1

This paragraph does not apply for catches of krill and finfish of less than one tonne.

Research fishing under paragraph 3 of CM24-01 involves taking more than 50 tonnes of finfish. Any proposals to conduct research fishing of this nature will be approved at the annual CCAMLR meeting in October or November 2024.

If you are proposing to conduct research fishing under paragraph 3, you must:

• complete Sections 1 to 6 of an Expedition Permit Application Form, and submit this together with the required Research Plan to the Polar Regions Department by 12 May 2024. The CCAMLR scientific working groups will consider applications, including at the annual CCAMLR meeting in October or November 2024
• provide all the information required in CM 24-01 Annex A, Format 2

Application forms and guidance

For a land or vessel based expedition you can download the permit application form and guidance below. For further information contact the Polar Regions Department.

Expedition Permit application form ( ODT , 97.4 KB )

Expedition Permit application guidance notes ( PDF , 1.03 MB , 15 pages )

If you plan to undertake more specialist activities in Antarctica (such as wildlife monitoring or scientific research), it is likely you will need a separate permit. For further information contact the Polar Regions Department.

Specialist Permit application form ( ODT , 69.3 KB )

Specialist Permit Application guidance notes ( PDF , 1.02 MB , 11 pages )

Historic Site and Monument application form ( ODT , 69.1 KB )

Once the expedition is complete, you will need to complete these post visit reports:

Post Visit Report: Part 1 ( ODT , 50.5 KB )

Post Visit Report: Part 2 ( ODS , 147 KB )

How to contact the Polar Regions Department

Telephone: 020 7008 5000

Email: [email protected]

Polar Regions Department Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office Room W2.80 King Charles Street London SW1A 2AH

Publishing application details

Applicants should be aware that within 10 days from the Polar Regions Department confirming receipt of any permit applications, the FCDO will openly publish information relating to these applications on this website. This will include application type, applicant name, duration of visit, proposed itinerary and the contact details of the applicant. See our privacy notice .

UK Antarctic enforcement policy and procedures

The FCDO is responsible for ensuring that the UK’s Antarctic legislation is fully complied with. See our UK Antarctic Enforcement Policy and Procedures page for further details.

Comprehensive Environmental Evaluations (CEEs) received for activity in Antarctica 2023 to 2024

No CEEs have currently been received. When received, we publish the name, company, purpose and location, and date received and CEE.

Initial Environmental Evaluations (IEEs) received for activity in Antarctica 2023 to 2024

No IEEs have currently been received. When received, we publish the name, company, purpose and location, and date received and IEE.

Applications received for expeditions 2023 to 2024 season

Updated application dates for permits to conduct research fishing

Addition of 3 new permit applications from Emma Nicholson, Fay Couceiro and Claire Padian

Twenty-two new permit applications from the British Antarctic Survey added.

Addition of two new permit applications from British Antarctic Survey

Addition of 5 new permit applications

New permit application from Dr Laura Grange added

New permit applications from Arctic Trucks and PolarX added

New permit application from Orla Doherty (BBC) added

New permit application from Tim Cochrane (Noble Caledonia) added

New permit application from Talesmith TV added.

Expedition Permit application guidance notes updated.

Applying for a Permit section has been updated.

Withdrawal of permit application from Sonja Heinrich

Updated guidance on applying for a permit to conduct research fishing section. Two new permit applications added: British Antarctic Survey (BAS) and Sonja Heinrich. Withdrawal of permit application from Nathan Robinson.

Two new permit applications added - Fred Olsen Cruise Lines and Nathan Robinson

Addition of 4 new Initial Environmental Evaluations (IEEs) received for activity in Antarctica 2022 to 2023.

New permit application added for Tom Hart.

Four new permit applications added: Robert Dougall McCallum for the vessel Nansen Explorer; Arctic Trucks; Dr Robert David Larter; and David Small.

New permit application added for Robert Dougall McCallum for the vessel Legend.

New permit application added for Christopher Aldridge

Updated Post Visit Report form: part 2

Updated post visit report - Part 1 and Part 2

New permit application added

2021-22 permit applications deleted for the 2022-23 season. New 2022-23 permit application added.

The expedition permit application form and guidance notes have been updated. The specialist permit application form and guidance notes have been updated.

Updated guidance on Applying for a permit to conduct research fishing for 2021/22 season.

Additional permit application added

Additional permit and IEE application

Additional permit applications added.

Added another permit application received and a new link to additional IEE for EYOS.

Dates updated for expedition onboard 'Legend'

Added additional permit application

Added additional permit applications received.

Added additional permit application received.

Added 5 additional permit applications, and one Initial Environmental Evaluation (IEE).

Two new permit applications added to table

Added two additional permit applications received.

Added details of permit applications for 2021-22.

Added new information about permit requirements for commercial and research fishing vessels.

Added additional permit applications received. Withdrawn application removed.

Added Initial Environmental Evaluation (IEE) and an additional permit application received.

Added additional permit application received. Withdrawn application removed.

Additional permit application received

New application received.

Added details of permit applications for 2020-21.

Updated Expedition application form and guidance notes added

New Initial Environmental Evaluation (IEE) added

Additional permit applications

Added new permit to table.

Addition of an Initial Environmental Evaluation (IEE)

New permit application received

Additional permit applications received

New permit application added.

Additional permit applications received.

Added two new permit applications to the table.

Two new permit applications added to table.

Updated details for permit applications received for 2019-20 Season

Attached new expedition permit form and guidance for 2019

Added details of another permit to the table.

Added another permit applicant

Further permit applications

Further permit applications received

Additional permit applications added to the list

Addition of IEE information

Change of postal address. Addition of further permit applications.

added another permit to table.

Additional permit application

I have added two permit applications on the table called “Applications received for expeditions from the 2018 to 2019 season”.

New information added to table.

Update to 2018/19 permit application received

Additional text explaining the requirements for visiting Antarctica, updated forms and guidance and revised Post Visit Reports.

Comprehensive Environmental Evaluation Added

permit application added

Additional applications

Addition of further permit applications

Updated permit applications for season 2017-18

Initial Environmental Evaluation added and permit applications updated

Added new applications for expeditions in the 2017 to 2018 season

page updated.

updated applications received for 2016 to 2017 expedition season

Revised formatting of permit applications

Additional Application form and Guidance

First published.

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Antarctica travel advice

Latest updates: The Health section was updated - travel health information (Public Health Agency of Canada)

Last updated: May 6, 2024 10:24 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, antarctica - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Antarctica due to the adverse and unpredictable weather conditions, as well as the lack of infrastructure and emergency services.

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Weather conditions

Antarctica is subject to extreme and unpredictable weather conditions. It is cold, dry and windy, with 99% of the continent covered by a permanent ice sheet.

These conditions put you at risk of frostbite and sun overexposure, which can result in dehydration and eye damage.

Ensure that you have equipment and clothing that meet Antarctic standards.

Communications

There are no public phone or other public communication services in Antarctica. In case of an emergency, you may have difficulties in obtaining outside assistance.

Research stations can house satellite telephones and postal facilities. However, they are fully dedicated to scientific research and, with rare exceptions, have no capacity to provide support of any kind to tourists or casual travellers.

If you plan to visit Antarctica as an independent traveller, ensure to be self-sufficient from the time that you leave the departure country until your return.

There are no tourist facilities on land, except a privately run base on the interior ice that caters to mountaineering-type expeditions

Travelling to Antarctica may have a potential harmful impact on the environment. As a result, you should avoid any travel that is not part of an international scientific expedition or organized through a tour operator. Various tourism companies can arrange excursions to the continent.

International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators

Antarctica is governed through an international treaty system and is not owned by any one nation.

Passport and visas

You may need a Canadian passport and/or a visa for the countries you transit as you travel en route to and from Antarctica.

Refer to the separate Travel advice and advisories for those countries.

Expedition permits

All Canadian travellers require a permit to visit Antarctica. Expedition tour operators will usually make necessary arrangements to obtain it on your behalf. Confirm this information with your tour operator before travelling.

Should you need to apply for a permit yourself, you must submit your request to the Antarctic Environmental Program at Environment Canada.

Apply for a permit - Environment Canada

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever   is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• This territory has not stated its yellow fever vaccination certificate requirements.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada * It is important to note that  country entry requirements  may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest  diplomatic or consular office  of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

There are no search and rescue or emergency evacuation facilities in Antarctica. In case of emergency, you will be responsible for the costs of your search, rescue and evacuation.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

The Protocol to the Antarctic Treaty on Environmental Protection—the Madrid Protocol—designates Antarctica as a natural reserve with established protected areas. Not owned by any one country, Antarctica is the site of environmental preservation efforts and scientific research.

Canada has implemented the Madrid Protocol into Canadian law with the Antarctic Environmental Protection Act. In doing so, the Canadian government now regulates the activities of its citizens in the Antarctic.

The Antarctic Environmental Protection Act prohibits Canadians and Canadian vessels, where applicable, from undertaking the following activities, except where a permit has been granted:

• activities related to mineral resources other than for scientific purposes
• interference with wildlife indigenous to the Antarctic
• introduction of animal or plant species that are not indigenous to the Antarctic
• any activity related to waste disposal
• any activity in a specially protected area

The weather in Antarctica is extreme. From March to September, temperatures can drop to -60C near sea level, and even lower in the interior. At the peak of winter, the continent receives little to no sunlight. Organized tours don’t operate during this period.

During mid-summer, from December to January, temperatures are around -2C to 4C. On the Antarctic Peninsula, temperatures can reach the low double-digits. There is sunlight up to 24 hours per day, depending on the location.

Blizzards are rare. However, in coastal areas, katabatic winds regularly reach speeds of 100 km/h. Gusts of up to 160 km/h are not uncommon.

Local services

There is no centralized number to reach emergency services.

Consular assistance

There is no Canadian government office in Antarctica. Canadians visiting Antarctica should advise Global Affairs Canada in Ottawa of their travel plans prior to leaving.

For emergency consular assistance, contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

Useful links

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

How to get to Antarctica: The pros and cons of flying vs. cruising

Planning a trip to Antarctica ? The first thing you need to do is decide on how you want to get there.

The vast majority of people who travel to the White Continent reach it on a cruise vessel that departs from South America .

Such trips typically start with a two-day crossing of the notoriously rough Drake Passage — the waterway between South America and Antarctica — followed by five or six days of exploring the coast of the continent and then a return trip across the Drake.

For more cruise guides, tips and news, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

But there's a second, less common way to go.

A handful of tour companies operate so-called "fly-cruise" trips to Antarctica that use hardy airplanes to fly tourists directly to the continent — no sailing across the Drake required.

On such trips, travelers still explore the coast of Antarctica by cruise vessel. But they don't board the vessel that will take them exploring until after they land on the continent.

Related: What it's like flying to Antarctica on a chartered plane

As I saw during a test of one of the fly-cruise trips this winter, it's a very different experience from the traditional sail-across-the-Drake trip to Antarctica (one of which I also did this winter — yeah, I'm a little obsessed with polar regions).

So which is the better way to go?

The short answer: There is no short answer. There are pros and cons to both, and the type of Antarctica trip that is right for you may not be the same as the type of Antarctica trip that is right for your neighbor. It will depend on several factors including your tolerance for rough seas, the time you have to travel and your budget.

Here, a look at some of the advantages and disadvantages of the two major ways to get to Antarctica.

The all-cruise option

As noted above, most travelers to Antarctica reach the continent on a cruise vessel that departs from South America — usually from Ushuaia, Argentina, or Puntas Arenas, Chile. Both are located at the very southern tip of South America. There also are a few cruise vessels that sail to Antarctica from Australia and New Zealand, though this is less common.

In most cases, such vessels are expedition cruise ships — small, hardy vessels with their own landing craft that are specifically designed to travel to remote, hard-to-reach places.

Related: The 11 best new expedition ships that go to Antarctica

In many cases, the voyages are operated by small companies that are specifically known for expedition cruising, including Lindblad Expeditions , Hurtigruten Expeditions , Quark Expeditions and Oceanwide Expeditions. But quite a few more-traditional cruise lines — including Silversea Cruises , Viking and Hapag-Lloyd Cruises — also operate expedition ships specifically built for travel to Antarctica and other polar regions.

Advantages of an all-cruise trip

The biggest advantage of an all-cruise trip to Antarctica is also, for some, its biggest disadvantage (more on this in a moment): It gets you into the Drake Passage.

As mentioned above, the Drake can be notoriously rough. Indeed, it's known as one of the roughest waterways in the world. It's not uncommon to encounter waves of 10 or 15 feet during a Drake crossing and, as I've experienced myself, the waves can be much higher.

That may sound like nothing but a disadvantage. But to many travelers — including me — crossing to Antarctica in such seas is an integral part of the experience of a trip there. It's part of understanding the remarkable history of Antarctic exploration, for sure, as it offers a taste of what the great Antarctic explorers such as Ernest Shackleton and Roald Amundsen had to endure in their epic journeys to the continent a century ago. It's also part of understanding the true remoteness of Antarctica, as the journey covers such a massive stretch of ocean.

Related: These 8 books are must-reads before an Antarctica trip

Bird-loving travelers who cross the Drake Passage by ship have the opportunity to see such remarkable bird species as the giant albatross, which you normally won't find in Antarctica.

In addition, the two days of crossing the Drake Passage at the start of an all-cruise Antarctica trip gives the guides on such trips a chance to prepare you for what you're about to see. Typically on such trips, specialists in such topics as Antarctica wildlife, geology and history will hold introductory lectures during the crossing that will help you put things in context upon arrival.

If nothing else, the two days provide a much-needed period of transition for travelers who have just left the frantic, crowded, modern world and soon will be thrust into a land of utter emptiness and wonder.

For some, braving a possibly rough trip across the Drake Passage is also a rite of passage. If you've gotten to Antarctica by ship across the Drake Passage, you've earned it.

Disadvantage of an all-cruise trip

As noted above, the biggest disadvantage of an all-cruise trip to Antarctica is the very same thing that some see as its biggest advantage: It gets you into the Drake — not just once, but twice.

Some people, including me, love cruising in big waves. It can be thrilling to experience the power of the ocean in all its force. But even those of us who love big waves have our limits. For someone who is prone to seasickness even in relatively calm seas, a transit through the Drake Passage can be a downright miserable experience.

Related: Discovering the wild dreamscape of Antarctica

Note that contrary to what you may hear, the Drake Passage isn't always fraught. While waves up to 25 or even 35 feet high at times are not uncommon, it can also be almost perfectly calm, a phenomenon known as the Drake Lake.

I experienced these calm conditions myself during my outbound crossing to Antarctica on a Lindblad Expeditions trip in January. On the way back, in contrast, we hit nearly 20-foot-high seas.

The 'fly-cruise' option

Fly-cruise tours to Antarctica typically start with a two-hour flight from Punta Arenas, Chile, to a Chilean research base on Antarctica's King George Island, thus skipping a ship crossing of the Drake Passage. The Presidente Eduardo Frei Montalva base, as it's known, has a gravel runway that is just long enough to handle some relatively small, hardy jets.

After landing at King George Island, passengers on fly-cruise trips walk to a nearby bay for a Zodiac boat transfer to an awaiting expedition cruise vessel. From there, they are quickly off on a five- or six-night exploration of the nearby Antarctic Peninsula and its environs.

At the end of the exploration, they fly back to Punta Arenas from the same base on King George Island at which they arrived.

Related: This new luxury tour gets you to Antarctica faster than most

The number of tour companies offering such trips is much more limited. They include Silversea Cruises (which just began such trips in December), Antarctica 21 and Quark Expeditions.

Such fly-cruise trips are still relatively rare. About 90% of travelers to Antarctica still arrive at the continent by ship.

Advantages of a fly-cruise trip

There are two big advantages to a fly-cruise trip to Antarctica. First, you get to skip the Drake Passage. As I already suggested above, that can be a very big deal to someone who is prone to seasickness. For people who are particularly sensitive to motion, flying there really is the only viable option for a trip to Antarctica, unless you want to risk being miserable for up to four days (don't forget you'll have to cross the Drake twice on an all-cruise trip).

For the record, these post-flight sailings don't entirely remove the possibility of experiencing rough seas. After leaving King George Island, expedition ships must cross the 60-mile-wide Bransfield Strait to reach the Antarctic Peninsula — and the strait is a body of water that can be choppy, as I saw for myself on the first night of my fly-cruise trip this past winter with Silversea. We hit seas around 10 feet high in the strait, leaving many passengers feeling queasy or worse.

Related: I just spent the night in an 'igloo' in Antarctica — here's how you can, too

But the good news is that the Bransfield Strait crossing is relatively quick. We entered it in the evening and were through it by wake-up time the next day. Once at the Antarctic Peninsula, the seas are relatively calm.

The second big advantage of fly-cruise trips to Antarctica is that they are shorter than what is typical for an Antarctica trip — something that should appeal to would-be Antarctica visitors who are limited in the number of days they can get away from work.

Antarctica trips that include ship crossings of the Drake Passage usually are at least 10 nights in length, not including the time it takes to get to and from the southern tip of South America. By cutting out the days crossing the Drake Passage, fly-cruise tour operators are able to offer an equal amount of time exploring Antarctica on a trip lasting just eight nights, including two nights in a Punta Arenas hotel — one before the flight to Antarctica and one afterward.

Disadvantages of a fly-cruise trip

The big knock on fly-cruise sailings to Antarctica over the years has been that there is a risk that poor weather at the landing site at King George Island could cause flights to and from the island to be delayed. The landings on the rough airstrip at the Chilean base require that pilots have a visual sighting of the runway.

Some companies, such as Silversea, have taken this into account in their itinerary planning. To allow for delays caused by shifting weather, Silversea has built a wide "weather window" for the charter flights to and from Antarctica into its itinerary. Silversea's trips begin and end with a night at a hotel in Punta Arenas, with downtime there built into the itinerary that creates a significant amount of wiggle room for when the flights can occur.

Related: I just went kayaking in Antarctica -- it was the most calm I've felt all year

If the weather is right, the flights to Antarctica will take place the morning after passengers arrive in Punta Arenas. But they can also shift earlier or later if the weather isn't cooperating. The flights back to Punta Arenas from King George Island can be similarly adjusted.

In addition, Silversea has booked extra nights at the hotel it uses in Punta Arenas, at its expense, just in case the flights are significantly delayed and passengers have to spend an extra night in Punta Arenas either on the way in or the way out, though such an occurrence would be rare.

I saw this weather-window strategy in action myself during my fly-cruise trip to Antarctica this past winter. The day before we were supposed to fly back from King George Island, a large storm front moved in over it with low-lying clouds and fierce winds. The storm not only made it difficult for the charter planes that were supposed to take us back to Chile to land at the island, but also made it difficult to operate the Zodiac boats that would be shuttling us from the ship to shore.

As per the plan, we arrived back at the bay at King George Island early and waited for a clearing in the weather that would allow our flights home to take place. Such a window finally appeared in the late evening of the last day of the trip. We took off for Chile at around 11 p.m., about nine hours later than we would have if the weather had been ideal.

Another possible downside to the fly-cruise trips to Antarctica is that they are typically more expensive, on a per-day basis, than all-cruise trips.

Related: The ultimate Antarctica packing guide

At Silversea, which offers both types of Antarctica trips, eight-night fly-cruise itineraries start at $16,600 per person, including flights — more than $2,000 per day.

Fares for Silversea's traditional Antarctica sailings that involve a crossing of the Drake Passage start at $11,900 per person, about 40% less.

In both cases, the fares above are highly-inclusive "door-to-door" pricing that comes with private executive transfers between your home and departure airport, international flights to South America and regional flights, airport transfers in South America, pre-cruise hotel stays, all shore tours, drinks and gratuities. Silversea also offers less expensive "port-to-port" pricing that strips out the international portion of the flights and transfers.

Bottom line

There's no right answer to the question of how to get to Antarctica, whether by ship or plane. I know which way I lean. I prefer to go by ship, as I relish the experience of following in the footsteps of the great explorers in crossing the sometimes rough Drake Passage. But other travelers will be better off, for sure, going the fly-cruise route, whether because they are prone to seasickness even in moderate seas or just can't take all that many days off for travel.

Planning an Antarctica cruise expedition? Start with these stories:

• Dreaming of Antarctica: How to book the trip of a lifetime
• Skip the Drake Passage: What it's like flying to Antarctica on a chartered plane
• 7 tips for visiting Antarctica before it's too late
• The ultimate packing list for an Antarctica trip
• These 8 books are must reads before any Antarctica trip

Can You Go To Antarctica? Yes! How To Get To Antarctica

Among the first questions prospective polar travelers consider “ Can you visit Antarctica? ” Yes, you can visit Antarctica, being mindful of any Antarctica travel restrictions . We’ll show you how.

The next question is “ How to get to Antarctica? ” The answer is not as difficult as it seems. The best way to get to Antarctica is via Antarctica cruises from Argentina, Australia and New Zealand or Antarctica flights from Chile.

IN THIS POST – How to Get to Antarctica: Can You go to Antarctica? 10 Reasons to Visit Antarctica Get to Antarctica by Ship Flights to Antarctica Get to Antarctica From Your Home Passport & Visa Requirements The Best Way to Get to Antarctica More Resources

Can You Go To Antarctica?

Yes, you can visit Antarctica. In fact, Antarctica has never been more accessible to travelers.

Do you need permission to go to Antarctica? Travelers do not need permission to go to Antarctica, but tourism operators must hold a valid permit. First, a bit of background on why it is legal to visit Antarctica.

Antarctica is not a country. The continent is protected by the Antarctic Treaty, which preserves it for peaceful and scientific use. The treaty and related agreements ensure that all human activity is carefully managed and planned, including environmentally sensitive tourism. As of 2023 the treaty has 56 signatory parties. 

Tourism operators in Antarctica submit stringent permit applications annually. If their planned activities meet all criteria, they are authorized and granted a permit. Traveling with an authorized operator means your permit has been secured for you.

MAKE IT HAPPEN

Subscribe to stay in the loop on Antarctica & save when you go.

Do you need a visa to visit Antarctica? Because no country owns Antarctica, a visa is not required to travel there.

How many tourists visit Antarctica each year?   During the 2022-2023 season, more than 32,000 travelers visited Antarctica. Will you be next?

How to Get to Antarctica

The two primary routes travelers use to get to Antarctica are cruising to Antarctica or flying to Antarctica. Below we present everything you need to know about each method. 

Wondering why people want to visit Antarctica. View our top 10 reasons to visit Antarctica now.

Get to Antarctica by Ship

The most common and most affordable way to get to Antarctica is to book an  Antarctica cruise . Over 90% of all visitors travel to Antarctica aboard a small ship. Learn more about the cost to go to Antarctica .

Specially outfitted operators run a fleet of purpose-built Antarctica expedition ships taking travelers to Antarctica. They take care of all the logistics from permits to schedules and itineraries. Shore landings and activities on the continent are an important part of the experience. See our tips on how to choose an Antarctic cruise .

Cruise to Antarctica From South America

The distance from the tip of South America to Antarctica is about 600 miles. The countries closest to Antarctica are Argentina and Chile. Most of the travel to Antarctica occurs from these countries in South America.  Most cruises begin in Ushuaia, Argentina but some start in other port towns in Argentina and Chile. 

Cruises to Antarctica range from 10-24 Days.  Antarctica cruises from South America are popular because they access the most popular regions including the Antarctic Peninsula, South Georgia Island and the Falkland Islands.   

Ushuaia to Antarctica Cruises

Ushuaia to Antarctica is the most popular cruise route. Ushuaia is 680 miles to Antarctica and the closest port making it the primary hub for cruises.

Ushuaia is the southernmost city in South America before Antarctica. It is in the Terra del Fuego province of Argentina and is generally recognized as the southernmost city in the world. Ushuaia is well worth a visit. We recommend travelers going to Antarctica arrive a day or two early.

Ushuaia Antarctica cruises offer the largest variety of itinerary and ship options. The shortest and most affordable Ushuaia cruises visit the Antarctic Peninsula. Some cruises from Ushuaia strive to reach farther south the Antarctic circle. More comprehensive Antarctica cruises from Ushuaia include South Georgia and the Falkland Islands. 

During the height of the season the port of Ushuaia can host 3-5 Antarctica expedition ships each day. Overall, there may be more than three dozen ships visiting Antarctica from Ushuaia each season. Don’t worry the ships coordinate schedules so ports and landing sites do not become overcrowded. This diverse fleet offers travelers the widest choice of ships, cabins and availability. 

Other Argentina to Antarctica Cruises

While most cruises begin in Ushuaia there are other routes from Argentina to Antarctica. Each year a handful of Argentina Antarctica cruises embark from Port Stanley in the Falkland Islands. To reach Port Stanley travelers must fly from mainland Argentina, usually Buenos Aires.   

Chile to Antarctica Cruises

Chile is known for its cruises with flights to Antarctica. But there are some cruises from Chile to Antarctica each year. Chile Antarctica cruises typically embark in the southern Patagonia city of Punta Arenas. 

A Chile to Antarctic voyage will travel through the Chilean Fjords passing by Cape Horn before venturing into the Drake Passage. If you choose a Chilean Antarctic trip it is also possible to combine it with travel to Patagonia or a Chile vacation .

Cruises From Australia and New Zealand to Antarctica

Each year a handful of specialty cruises voyage from New Zealand and Australia to Antarctica. These are true expeditions and take longer than cruises from South America. Just crossing from New Zealand or Australia to Antarctica can take five days or more. The highlight of an Antarctica cruise from Australia or New Zealand is a visit to the Ross Sea. 

The most common embarkation ports for journeys from New Zealand to Antarctica are Invercargill and Dunedin. Cruises from Australia to Antarctica typically depart from Hobart, Tasmania.

Some Antarctica cruises depart from Australia, visit the White Continent, and then return to the same port. Others begin in South America and end in Australia, or reverse. Either way, these cruises are much longer than cruises from South America. Antarctic cruises from Australia and New Zealand range from 25-35 days.  

Voyages will visit sub-Antarctic islands such as Macquarie Island, the Auckland Islands or Campbell Islands. These remote outposts are rich in birdlife and wildlife. They serve to break up the longer ocean crossing.

How to Get to Antarctica by Boat FAQ’s

The Antarctic Peninsula lies just over 680 miles (1100 kilometers) from Ushuaia, Argentina in South America.

The Antarctic Circle is about 800 miles (1,300 kilometers) from Ushuaia, Argentina in South America. 

The voyage from Ushuaia to Antarctic takes about 48 hours by small ship. Antarctic Peninsula cruises will make this crossing each way. So, a typical 11-day cruise will include 4 days crossing at sea and 7 days exploring the Antarctic Peninsula. 

Most Antarctica cruises are 10-13 days. Some cruises are 14-20 days. The longest Antarctica cruise is 36 days long.

Most cruises to Antarctica leave from Ushuaia, Argentina. Cruises also leave from Punta Arenas-Chile, Port Stanley-Argentina, Hobart-Australia, Dunedin -New Zealand.

The Antarctic continent is about 1650 miles (2655 kilometers) from Australia. The Ross Sea is about 2200 miles (3,500 kilometers) from Australia. 

The crossing from Australia to Antarctica can take up to 7 days depending on weather.

The Antarctic continent is about 1500 miles (2415 kilometers) from New Zealand. The Ross Sea is about 1800 miles (2900 kilometers) from New Zealand.

The crossing from New Zealand to Antarctica can take up to 5 days depending on weather.

The closest country to cruise to Antarctica is Argentina. 

You cannot see Antarctica from South America. Don’t laugh, people ask. 

Flights to Antarctica

Flying to Antarctica from Chile avoids crossing the infamous Drake Passage and makes the overall trip shorter. Antarctica air cruises are the second most popular way to get to Antarctica. 

Flights to Antarctica are a great option for travelers short on time or concerned about seasickness. A flight to Antarctica takes about two hours, saving two days of cruising. Since most cruises make the crossing twice, flying can shave four days off the overall travel time. Cruises with flights to Antarctica range from 7-17 days long. 

When considering cruises with flights to Antarctica, there are not as many options of ships and itineraries. The season for Antarctica flights is shorter, beginning in December and ending in February. There are not as many flight departures as standard cruises from South America.

Many trips with flights depart and return to the same location. Others will fly one way to or from the Antarctica Peninsula and cruise the other direction. Our experts are here to discuss the details of flights to Antarctica and help you choose the best Antarctic flight. 

There are no commercial flights to Antarctica.  Antarctica air cruise itineraries utilize one-way or round-trip flights from Punta Arenas, Chile, to the Antarctica Peninsula where guests board a ship. Flights to Antarctica utilize the airstrip at the King George Island Antarctica airport. This landing site is associated with Chile’s Frei Station.

Fly to Antarctica from Chile

Punta Arenas, Chile, is the primary departure point for cruises with Antarctic flights. These trips fly over the Drake passage, landing on King George Island near the Antarctic Peninsula. Travelers then embark the ship in Antarctica.

Most trips will explore the Antarctic Peninsula, then fly back to Chile. Some venture further to Antarctic Circle, South Georgia Island and the Falkland Islands. Some trips fly one way from Chile then cruise back or reverse. 

How to Fly to Antarctica FAQ’s

Yes, you can fly to Antarctica , but only in conjunction with an organized tour or cruise. There are no commercial flights to Antarctica.

There are no commercial airports in Antarctica. Flights to Antarctica utilize landing strips associated with scientific research stations.

The only way to fly to Antarctica is part of an organized tour or cruise. Flights with cruises depart from Chile.

The flight to Antarctica from Punta Arenas, Chile is about 2 hours.

Travelers get around in Antarctica by small expedition ship. Travelers also get around via zodiacs, kayaks, skiing, snowshoeing, hiking and trekking. 

The closest country to fly to Antarctica from is Chile.

No it is not possible to see Antarctica from Chile.

How to get to Antarctica from Your Home

Most cruises depart from Ushuaia, Argentina. Fly-and-cruise trips depart from Punta Arenas, Chile. There are no direct international flights into these ports, so most travelers must route flights through Buenos Aires, Argentina, or Santiago, Chile.

Below is our advice on how to get to Antarctica from your home, using these air travel hubs. Our specialists can assist with your flights to Antarctica.

Get to Antarctica From Your Home: Get to Antarctica From the U.S.A. Get to Antarctica From Canada Get to Antarctica From Australia Get to Antarctica From New Zealand Get to Antarctica From the U.K. & Europe

How to Get to Antarctica From the United States

• To Buenos Aires : To get to Antarctica on a cruise departing from Argentina, travelers need to fly from the USA to Buenos Aires. The most popular Antarctica flights from U.S.A. to Buenos Aires depart from New York, Dallas, Los Angeles, Atlanta, Houston, Chicago, Washington D.C. and Boston. From Buenos Aires fly to Ushuaia to board your ship. 
• To Santiago : To fly to Antarctica from the USA, travelers first need to fly to Santiago, Chile. The most popular flight routes from the U.S.A. to Santiago, Chile, depart from Los Angeles, Dallas, Houston, Atlanta, Miami and New York. From Santiago fly to Punta Arenas to board your flight to Antarctica. 

How to Get to Antarctica From Canada

There are direct flights from Toronto to both Buenos Aires and Santiago, five days each week. From other regions in Canada, travelers may consider connecting through a gateway in the U.S.A.

How to Get to Antarctica From Australia

• To Hobart: To get to Antarctica on a cruise departing from Australia you will need to travel to Hobart, Tasmania. Popular flight routes to Hobart depart from Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide.
• To Buenos Aires: To get to Antarctica from Australia on a cruise departing from Argentina, travelers need to fly to Buenos Aires. Unfortunately, there are no direct flights from Australia to Buenos Aires. Travelers going to Antarctica from Australia must consider connecting to Buenos Aires through Auckland, New Zealand, or through Santiago, Chile. From Buenos Aires fly to Ushuaia to board your ship.
• To Santiago : To fly to Antarctica from Australia travelers will first need to fly to Santiago, Chile. Flights from Sydney, Australia, to Santiago, Chile, operate four days each week. From Santiago fly to Punta Arenas to catch your flight to Antarctica. 

How To Get to Antarctica From New Zealand

Most travelers from New Zealand will fly to South America to get to Antarctica from there. If you are on a specialty New Zealand cruise to Antarctica there are numerous options, depending on your departure port. See details below to get to Antarctica from New Zealand.

• To Invercargill or Dunedin: To get to Antarctica on a cruise departing from New Zealand you will need to travel to either Invercargill or Dunedin. Travelers on New Zealand’s South Island may drive to their embarkation port. There are flights to Invercargill and Dunedin from Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch.
• To Buenos Aires : To get to Antarctica from New Zealand on a cruise departing from Argentina travelers need to fly to Buenos Aires. There are four direct flights each week from Auckland, New Zealand, to Buenos Aires, Argentina. From Buenos Aires fly to Ushuaia to board your ship.
• To Santiago : To fly to Antarctica from New Zealand, travelers will first fly to Santiago, Chile. Flights from Auckland, New Zealand, to Santiago, Chile, operate four days each week. From Santiago fly to Punta Arenas to catch your flight to Antarctica. 

How To Get to Antarctica From the U.K. & Europe

• To Buenos Aires : To get to Antarctica from the U.K. and Europe most travelers will first fly to Buenos Aires, Argentina. There are numerous flights from Europe to Buenos Aires each day. Popular routes depart from London, Amsterdam, Paris, Frankfurt, Zurich, Madrid, Barcelona and Rome. From Buenos Aires fly to Ushuaia to board your ship.
• To Santiago : To fly to Antarctica from the U.K. and Europe travelers will first fly to Santiago, Chile. There are numerous flights from Europe to Santiago each day. Popular routes depart from London, Amsterdam, Paris, Frankfurt, Madrid and Barcelona. From Santiago fly to Punta Arenas to catch your flight to Antarctica. 

How to Get to Antarctica From Argentina

To get to Antarctica from Argentina, travelers will first fly to Buenos Aires. Buenos Aires, Argentina has two airports. International travelers will arrive at Ezeiza International Airport (EZE). Then connect from Buenos Aires to Uhsuaia. Flights to and from Ushuaia (USH) operate out of the Jorge Newbery Airpark domestic airport (AEP). So a transfer between airports in Buenos Aires is required.

We recommend the airport shuttle service, Manuel Tienda Leon. Find their colorful booths in the airport to book a transfer for about $30 USD. Shuttles depart every 30 minutes from the EZE arrival terminal.  A taxi can be arranged and may be quicker but more expensive. 

The opposite transfer is required on the return trip. We advise travelers to allow at least four hours between flights for this transfer and check in. Many travelers will consider a stopover in Buenos Aires as part of their Antarctica travel package.

How to Get to Antarctica from Chile

To get to Antarctica from Chile, travelers will first fly to Santiago. International travelers will arrive at Arturo Merino Benitez International Airport, also known as Santiago International Airport (SCL). Then connect from Santiago to Punta Arenas. Flights to and from Punta Arenas also depart from this airport making connections easy. Many travelers will consider a stopover in Santiago as part of their Antarctica plans.

Antarctica Passport & Visa Requirements

A visa or passport is not required to visit Antarctica. However, the country you pass through to get to Antarctica, such as Argentina, Chile, Australia or New Zealand will require a passport and may require a visa depending on your country of origin. Visas are not required in these countries for U.S. citizens. Your passport should be valid for 6 months after your travel dates, depending on your country of residency.

Countries that have signed the Antarctica Treaty including the U.S.A., Canada, E.U., New Zealand and Australia require that visitors from those countries need permission to visit Antarctica. This is typically provided through the tour operator. 

Argentina Visas – click here to learn if a visa is required to enter Argentina from your country. Chile Visas – click here to find your Chilean consulate. Contact your consulate to learn if a visa is required if a visa is required to enter Chile from your country. In the United States, visa services can answer detailed questions and expedite applications for visas to Argentina and Chile.

What is the Best Way to Get to Antarctica?

The best way to get to Antarctica is by  small ship cruise  across the Drake Passage, or by plane to meet your ship in Antarctica. There are no right or wrong ways to get to Antarctica. Your choice will depend on your personal preferences, schedule and budget. Regardless of how you get to Antarctica, it will be the trip of a lifetime.

Continue your research on how to travel to Antarctica using the links below, or sign up for the AdventureSmith newsletter to stay in the loop on Antarctica travel news and deals. Our experts are here to teach you how to visit Antarctica and to help you get there.

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How much cost for the trip from India to Antarctica for one person?

Hi Ramesh, From ship selection to cabin considerations, trip duration and departure date, there are many factors that can affect the cost of an Antarctica cruise. Start with our helpful article How Much Does it Cost to go to Antarctica , (note the section on solo travelers ). Our experts are your best resource and can ultimately help you determine how much you’ll need for this bucket list destination plus offer money-saving tips in the process. We will be in touch shortly.

I want to visit in Feb or March 2024. Please give me a price for 2 pax.

Hi Smarajit, You’ve come to the right place. An Antarctica expert will be in contact with you shortly to discuss all your Antarctica cruise options.

i want to package of antartica via cruise or by air with couple

Hi Pradeep, We can certainly help! An Antarctica Specialist will be in touch direct shortly. In the meantime you can review more information about Cruises with Flights to Antarctica and Antarctica cruises in general.

Let Our Travelers Explain What Is So Special About Antarctica

The Antarctic cruise was something else; it was an unbelievable experience. The crew were superb. Thanks, AdventureSmith, for getting me into such a grand adventure. I have too many stories.

Antarctica is an out of the world experience. It is nothing like anywhere. Neither was there an experience like this before nor can there be similar one after.

I was blown away by the experience. Antarctica is truly a magical place. By far, the quality and variety of food beyond exceeded my expectations. Camping on land was incredible!!!

One of the best trips I have ever taken. You are only going to Antarctica once most likely, so you want to get it right. I felt like we really did and that was made possible by excellent guidance from Nick and excellent service from all involved on our travels. We were told National Geographic was second to none in terms of naturalist and that was very true. Antarctica was simply amazing. Nothing can compare and you simply have to see it to believe it.

The first time I stepped onto Antarctica, I just closed my eyes and tried to envision the globe and where I was on it at that very moment; definitely a wow moment and a wow trip! Since I prefer masses of wildlife to masses of humanity, I had a wonderful experience. Be prepared to be amazed!

The trip far, far, far, far, far, far exceeded our expectations. I had one "far" in the sentence when we left South Georgia Island after seeing 250,000 King Penguins at St. Andrews Point and added the second when we saw blue whales on two different days. The third "far" was added when we saw hundreds of whales for 6 hours along the iceberg, A68a...

The Antarctic cruise was something else; it was an unbelievable experience. The crew were superb. I have no negative impressions to relate. The scenes of Antarctica from the Professor Malchanov were breathtaking, not to mention in the landings on the peninsula and numerous islands. The gear (coat and rubber boots) was perfect; I never got cold. Penguins were encountered at just about every stop. We saw a couple of seals, too, and a few whales at sea. Those birds are incredibly photogenic and there must have been thousands of pictures taken by my fellow passengers. Thanks, AdventureSmith, for getting me into such a grand adventure. I have too many stories.

Featured in this Traveler Review

• Antarctic Explorer

Overall trip experience was great, since it had an equal measure of all components-comfortable stay, good food, insights on the continent, well organised landings and great care taken by the expedition head and his team. All the landings were unique in their own way, had different elements of surprise every time. Whale watching from the ship-out of the world experience.

Accommodations Review

Accommodations were convenient and well maintained. Only the camping tent could have been a little larger to accommodate two campers.

Crew & Guides Review

The enthusiasm and professionalism was par excellence. Alex the team leader was very knowledgeable about the continent and its various facets and his alertness and information got us more benefits from the trip. All others were equally competent and knowledgeable. Lyn, Osi, Gerard, Scott, Phil, Mike and others-each had so much energy and enthusiasm to share their knowledge, help and guide us that made your trip so memorable.

AdventureSmith Explorations Review

All info was given in detail. There were regular emails from Nick which helped me a lot. The change in airline schedule was informed in advance so that alternates could be booked. The info about ground transport was also useful.

Traveler Advice

Antarctica is an out of the world experience. It is nothing like anywhere. Neither was there an experience like this before nor can there be similar one after. Anyone who like nature should visit it! Do not have any doubt or inhibition, everything will be smooth. Enjoy and soak in the experience as it seeps in!

• Antarctic Peninsula Aboard Expedition
• MS Expedition

I was blown away by the experience. Antarctica is truly a magical place and Oceanwide did an excellent job in showing it to me. The staff and crew were beyond helpful and enthusiastic about their work. By far, the quality and variety of food beyond exceeded my expectations. Safety was paramount and everyone was well taken care of. I would recommend this trip to anyone! Great variety of age, backgrounds, gender, country of origin, etc. on the boat. Everyone was friendly and talkative.

David (Expedition Leader) was very professional, informative, and friendly. He handled any situation that came up quickly and made prompt decisions. He kept everyone informed and had a positive attitude the whole time. The other staff that took us on expeditions was also wonderful (Mal, Koen, Julia, Owen, Werner, Alexis, Andreas, Regis, Daniel, and Trevor).

Itinerary Review

I enjoyed the adventure activities including camping, kayaking, and mountaineering. They allowed me to get close to nature and experience the environment first-hand. It felt like we stayed in the same place for so much of the trip and that was a bit of a disappointment. It would have been nice to see more of the peninsula and move along it each day rather than in the same area. Camping on land was incredible!!!

Meals Review

It was phenomenal! As noted previously, I was blown away by the food variety and quality.

I received great information from AdventureSmith. The only exception would be in regards to the Mountaineering activity. I was told I would need mountaineering boots for this but after purchasing them and getting on the boat, I found out I was not able to do the activity because I did not have prior experience mountaineering.

• Antarctic Peninsula Basecamp Cruise
• Oceanwide Expeditions

Please note: The primary ship(s) operating the mentioned itinerary can change from year to year, so the ship this guest cruised on may no longer be sailing this exact route.

The arrangements from start to finish were seamless. The staff for the pre-cruise tours as well as on the ship were simply fantastic. Great group of travelers on the ship - we enjoyed the adventurous spirit of all on board. One of the best trips I have ever taken. You are only going to Antarctica once most likely, so you want to get it right. I felt like we really did and that was made possible by excellent guidance from Nick and excellent service from all involved on our travels. We were told National Geographic was second to none in terms of naturalist and that was very true. Not only did we see the landscape and animals but we learned about them - and from people who love them and are experts in their field. That added a richness not possible otherwise.

The Mandarin hotel prior and the National Geographic Orion were exactly as I expected and met all our needs.

The meals on the ship were consistently incredible. The variety of fresh foods and beautiful presentation never got boring.

The pre-tour guide and driver were outstanding. Our guide went above and beyond to make our experience a good one and to give us insight into his country in addition to seeing 'the sights' - it was a true cultural experience which I wanted and appreciated. The National Geographic crew from top to bottom were fantastic.

Antarctica was simply amazing. Nothing can compare and you simply have to see it to believe it. We also enjoyed our day trip to Valpairaiso. The day trip and the drive over with a stop at a local winery gave us a good flavor for the region as well as a day to adjust and get ready for the next leg of the journey.

Nick helped us for more than a year to secure the trip, work on pre-tours and help with all preparations and questions - which were many. He was also professional and responsive and educational in preparing us for the trip. Just what I wanted from a travel agency. Expert advice from people who have been there and can match your wishes and travel style to the right fit for you.

Plan far ahead and research what the actual trip experience will be like. Find the fit that best suits your personality and travel style. Be flexible. The only challenge was a very late night flight out of Santiago to Dallas. The downtime on that final day proved to longer than I would have liked. I would recommend to future travelers that they spend the night in Santiago, taking a morning flight out the following day in order to ensure a less exhaustive end to the trip. Santiago city center is worth seeing but not particularly engaging - at least at the moment. The protests have very much disrupted the flow for tourists and the effects on the city with graffiti and boarded up sites around the city are painful to see.

• National Geographic The White Continent
• National Geographic Orion
• Lindblad Expeditions

The first time I stepped onto Antarctica, I just closed my eyes and tried to envision the globe and where I was on it at that very moment; definitely a wow moment and a wow trip! Penguins, penguins, penguins, penguins, penguins! Gosh, I love them! South Georgia was fantastic. Since I prefer masses of wildlife to masses of humanity, I had a wonderful experience.

The M/S Plancius is a very nice clean ship with comfortable beds. I was impressed that they cleaned the windows many times during the voyage so that you always had a clear view from inside.

I thoroughly enjoyed all of our leaders and thought all were professional and enthusiastic. James Cresswell and Brent Houston were outstanding in their knowledge. 

Chris Harter at AdventureSmith was outstanding in answering my endless questions; also in general he was just a pleasure to talk to, easygoing and friendly.

Be prepared to be amazed!

• Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctica

We particularly wanted to do this trip because of the abundance of wildlife we expected to encounter and selected this ship because they offered the kayaking experience. Overall, the weather was very good. Most people seemed like minded and were there for the adventurous experience.

They upgraded our cabin and we were very pleased with the amount of space and the amenities in the room. We appreciated the twin windows and being able to see humpbacks diving from our cabin. It was kept very clean and it was a treat to have our bed turned down with chocolates on the pillow each night.

We liked the variety and the quality of the food.  There was always something new to try.  The dining room staff was very professional and personable.

Solon was our Principal Trip Leader. He was incredibly professional and it seemed like he was constantly working to maximize the encounters with wildlife and scenery, taking advantage of all the weather opportunities and going to places that they don't often go. He worked very closely with the captain who was very accommodating and caring about us having a memorable voyage. Aymie and Andrew were our kayak guides. We went out to kayak 10 different times and were able to get to know both of them well. They worked hard to keep us safe and well informed. They made sure that we didn't miss out on any land excursions. We've had quite a few kayak guides over the years that we've paddled and we loved these two. Marla was the marine biologist aboard the ship. She was very enthusiastic and had a passion for marine mammals that was infectious. We loved listening to her presentations and looked forward to hearing her voice on the PA saying that there was another whale sighting. Colin, the geologist aboard the ship, was very knowledgeable and able to make difficult subjects understandable to the passengers.

The trip far, far, far, far, far, far exceeded our expectations.  I had one "far" in the sentence when we left South Georgia Island after seeing 250,000 King Penguins at St. Andrews Point and added the second when we saw blue whales on two different days. The third "far" was added when we saw hundreds of whales for 6 hours along the iceberg, A68a. I added another "far" when we kayaked for over an hour with humpbacks all around and another "far" when minke whales were all around the kayaks the next day. The last "far" was added the day we didn't paddle since a leopard seal was all around the kayaks and then an orca came close. We had so many incredible experiences that we could never experience all of them in the same trip again. The guides told us that the close encounters that we had didn't happen very often and that we were very lucky that they all happened on our trip. The only thing that we didn't like was portions of the Drake Passage when it was a tad rough, but that experience gives us something to talk about.

Transportation Review

We made our transportation arrangements through another travel agency.

Make sure that you take sea sickness meds. Take advantage of every opportunity to see wildlife.

• Explorers & Kings

How To Go To Antarctica? On These Trips

Now that you know how to get to Antarctica, start browsing this selection of cruises and trips with Antarctica flights for your best way to get there. Contact our experts to learn more about how to get to Antarctica. We’re here to help with a free, personalized quote and planning advice for your polar expedition.

Contact Us - Can You Go To Antarctica? Yes! How To Get To Antarctica

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Talk to an AdventureSmith Travel Specialist Call us toll free at 1-877-620-2875 . Call us direct at 530-583-1775 .

Office Hours Monday through Friday, 8am-5pm Pacific Time.

Address 40169 Truckee Airport Road, Suite 201 Truckee, CA 96161

COVID-19 and the AAP: Information for expeditioners

Expeditioners will be required to adopt a robust COVID-19 self-protection approach prior to departure, to support and deliver the 2023–24 Australian Antarctic Program (AAP).

Predeparture expeditioner risk mitigations

It is a requirement that all 2023–24 AAP participants (including expeditioners, ship/aircrew and external contractors), have had a COVID-19 booster or documented COVID-19 infection within 6 months (3 months preferred) of deployment, to be approved to travel south, unless medically exempt by the AAD Chief Medical Officer or AAD HOD/GM Ops. This requirement is an AAD Antarctic Service Medical requirement stipulated and assessed by the AAD Polar Medicine Unit.

International participants with differing primary and booster vaccine access and regimes will be reviewed by the Polar Medicine Unit on a case by case basis.

It is also recommended that you are up to date with an annual Influenza vaccine booster.

Please send official documentary evidence of your current COVID-19 and influenza vaccinations to [email protected].

Enhanced prevention measures

The incubation period of the current COVID-19 Omicron variant (the time it takes from exposure to symptoms) is currently 2–8 days, with an average of approximately 4 days. The period of infectiousness of the current Omicron variant is up to 8–10 days.

The AAD Polar Medicine Unit recommends that to ensure the best chance of your deployment with the AAP, that you protect yourselves by following enhanced COVID-19 safe behaviours prior to your departure.

We also recommend COVID-19 safe behaviours throughout your onboarding and predeparture training period to prevent impact on your own health, your colleagues’ health and your predeparture training requirements.

COVID-19 symptoms

Please perform a Daily Health Check prior to attending work. If you have any symptoms, you must stay home, advise your work supervisor and the Polar Medicine Unit Hotline on 03 6232 3293 , who can provide further guidance.

There are numerous other respiratory viruses circulating in our community, transmission of any of these viruses can impact other expeditioners and the Australian Antarctic Program in this critical operational period.

Mandatory COVID-19 PCR testing

In order to minimise the chance of transmission of COVID-19 into Antarctica and the Sub-Antarctic, mandatory COVID-19 PCR testing will be performed 2 days prior to departure for all AAP participants. COVID-19 PCR testing will also be performed on day 2 and 5 post-departure on ships only.

For AAP Participants:

• You will be required to be in Tasmania at least 3 days prior to your departure south, to conduct at minimum, the day 2 prior to departure COVID-19 PCR testing.

The AAD Polar Medicine Unit (PMU) will coordinate COVID-19 PCR screening during the immediate pre-departure periods.

This will be undertaken without cost, usually with referral to Sonic Health Plus providers – you will be contacted to be advised of testing logistics

Management of COVID-19 positive cases

All COVID-19 positive cases are required follow current State and Territory Public Health Orders and reporting requirements. They must inform the Polar Medicine unit on +61 3 6232 3293 and also their supervisor, who, if required, will complete and submit the AAD COVID-19 Notification form.

All suspected and confirmed COVID-19 cases must remain at home when unwell with infectious symptoms. Once asymptomatic, if required to return to work, they must wear a N95 mask, perform increased hand hygiene, and minimise their contact hours to prevent transmission to others, for the 10-day period after symptom onset or diagnosis (whichever is former).

Medical fitness review for approval to travel south

COVID-19 and other respiratory infections affect individuals to varying degrees with both acute complications and prolonged symptoms (i.e. Long COVID). As with any intercurrent illness or injury, COVID-19 suspected and positive cases will require PMU medical review and assessment to ensure that they remain Medically Fit for deployment for the 2023–24 AAP Season and approved for travel South.

If you have any further questions please do not hesitate to contact your AAD station or ship doctor via usual contacts or PMU Hotline +61 (0)3 6232 3293 or [email protected]

AAP COVID-19 vaccination requirement update – September 2023

In light of the recent September ATAGI recommendations, we want to clarify the impact of these guidelines on the AAP COVID-19 Plan for 2023–24 and its associated vaccination requirements.

The new ATAGI recommendations relate to a second COVID-19 booster in 2023.

Although we are guided by Public Health recommendations, the AAP COVID-19 policy is based on Occupational Health recommendations, operational requirements and risk mitigation strategies – as a consequence overall there is no change to the AAP COVID-19 Safety and Outbreak Management plan .

As the new ATAGI recommendations may cause potential challenges in accessing COVID-19 vaccinations due to eligibility or misinterpretation of the guidelines, the Polar Medicine Unit (PMU) will on request provide:

• Letter of Support for Vaccination Providers describing the AAP Vaccination Requirements
• COVID-19 vaccination clinic for AAP participants, if unable to obtain them elsewhere – we will provide further advice once these are available
• Review of individual cases who have already received a COVID-19 booster or contracted COVID-19 in 2023 but outside of the 6-month prior to deployment window.

Please email the Polar Medicine Unit – [email protected] if you have any questions, require a vaccination support letter or vaccination, are seeking a medical exemption or request to have your case reviewed.

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Antarctic Travel Requirements

During the 2023-24 season, Antarctica21 will operate trips starting or ending in different ports: Port Stanley in the Falkland Islands (Malvinas); Ushuaia in Argentina; and Punta Arenas in Chile.

Antarctica21 Pre-Departure Information

Antarctica21 covid-19 prevention measures.

While many of the restrictions imposed during the Covid-19 pandemic have now been lifted, Antarctica21 continues to work on offering travel experiences that are as safe as possible.

To participate in a 2023-24 Antarctica21 trip, guests must:

• Meet the entry requirements of the countries visited during the itinerary.
• Complete Antarctica21’s participation form no later than 90 days prior to departure.
• Purchase medical travel insurance, including emergency evacuation.
• For guests who required a visa to enter the countries visited during the trip, a multiple entry visa is required.

It is no longer required for guests to be vaccinated against Covid-19 or provide a medical certificate for passengers who are 75 years of age or older.

Entry Requirements

Many of the travel restrictions that were in place during the pandemic have been lifted. Below is an overview of the entry requirements that are in place for Chile as of the indicated last update date. Updates will be posted as needed should the entry requirements be relaxed further.

Entry Requirements for Chile

Requirements for International travelers who don’t reside permanently in Chile from May 18, 2023: Chile’s Ministry of Health announced that the “Protected Borders Plan,” designed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, has been terminated. The resolution establishes that the request for the PCR test upon entering the country, the COVID-19 vaccination certificate, and the random testing of travelers have been eliminated. As a result, Chile no longer has sanitary requirements for passengers arriving from abroad.

Complete information is available in Chile.Travel .

Last update: May 18, 2023

Get Inspired to Travel!

Antarctica travel is full of natural wonders, epic wildlife, and wild moments that will stay with your forever. Awake your adventure spirit by reading our A21 Journal.

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Why fly to antarctica.

17 Things You Need to Know Before Visiting Antarctica Travel Tips

• Antarctica / Outdoors

Curious about visiting Antarctica? Here’s everything you need to know.

Stepping foot on our last continent was a dream come true. Thank you, Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours, for hosting such a memorable trip! 

Before we embarked on our journey, we thought Antarctica was a one-and-done destination, but even during our trip, I started to look up ways I could become a researcher and live there. Penguin counter? Pick me!

Epic doesn’t even begin to describe this frozen wonderland, and if you saw any of my photos and stories, you already know, I couldn’t help but exclaim in ALL CAPS! It was a trip of a lifetime, and I hope it isn’t our last.

Curious about visiting the White Continent? Read our tips to help you plan a trip to the most epic place on earth.

This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. All opinions are always our own. Read our full disclosure  for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: January 30, 2024

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• Best Time to Visit Antarctica
• How Bad is the Drake Passage
• How to Choose an Antarctic Cruise

1. How Long Does it Take to Get to Antarctica?

When visiting Antarctica, most people start their cruise from Ushuaia, Argentina, or Punta Arenas, Chile. Since we live in Las Vegas, we’ll share our travel times from here (no direct flights from LAS to EZE).

• Vegas to Dallas – 2 h 40 mins
• Dallas to Buenos Aires – 10 h 30 mins
• Buenos Aires to Ushuaia – 3 h 20 mins (left 926 am, arrived 1245)
• Ushuaia Port to Antarctica on the Scenic Eclipse II – approximately two days through Drake Passage. It can sometimes take longer, depending on wind and swells.

See More: 25 Amazing Places to Visit Before They Disappear

2. Best times to Visit Antarctica? What are High and Low Seasons? When Do I Need to Book?

The best time to visit Antarctica is from November to March, their summer.

• October – some cruises start at the end of the month. It’s colder, and the days are short, but you get lower fares, enormous icebergs, and pristine landscapes. If you’re on an icebreaker ship, you can even visit remote emperor penguin colonies, the most elusive penguins.
• November – most cruise lines start their season in November. Adélie, Gentoo, and Chinstrap penguins start mating and laying eggs. You’ll also see breeding elephant and fur seals with aggressive mating rituals. The snow is still pristine, icebergs are massive, and you can see the rare emperor penguins. Photographers also benefit from the sun being low. 
• December – the weather warms, and you get 22 hours of daylight. In late December, you’ll see penguin chicks, baleen whales, toothed whales, and humpback whales on the peninsula. Keep in mind that the holidays are the most expensive time to visit.
• January is peak season with 22+ hours of daylight for maximum wildlife watching. The weather is warmest and most predictable, though never guaranteed, and the ice breaks up for ships to cross the Antarctic Circle. You can visit historic huts during land expeditions. Penguin chicks are hatching, and orcas and humpback sightings are common.
• February – Temperatures are still decent, and it is the best time for whale watching with more humpback and minke whale sightings. Sea ice retreats to open the Ross Sea and East Antarctica for visits. Adult penguins are molting, and chicks are learning to swim, so leopard seals and orcas are on the hunt.
• March – the season starts to wind down with colder and more unpredictable weather, but you’ll get better value fares. It’s too late to see penguin chicks, but it’s an excellent time to see young fur seals and whales. It’s another popular time for photographers as the sun dips lower in the sky.

3. How much does it cost to go to Antarctica?

Most cruises are, on average, $8000 and can go up from there, and pricing depends on your cruise, time of year, how many days, and activities. The cheapest cruises start at $5000 and are sail-by cruises, where you don’t land.

The Scenic Eclipse II is one of the most luxurious vessels traveling to Antarctica and beyond the Antarctic Circle. We did a 16-day cruise that starts at $21,335 (the 13-day starts at $19,225). This pricing includes a chartered flight between Buenos Aires to Ushuaia, excursions (besides helicopter and submarine), 24/7 butler service, nine dining options (three of them set, coursed menu), gratuities, room service, alcoholic beverages with a great selection of wine and top-shelf whiskeys, enrichment lectures, fitness classes, spa facilities. Many other cruises start with a lower base price and offer these additional services a la carte. 

We’ll share a breakdown of these costs across different cruise lines later.

4. How Can I Get to Antarctica? Can you fly to Antarctica? Are There hotels in Antarctica?

Antarctica is inhospitable, unpredictable, and potentially dangerous, making independent travel challenging. Most people visit through guided tours and cruises. If you want to land in Antarctica, only smaller expedition ships can land since IAATO (International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators) rules limit the number of people on land at a given time. On a large cruise ship, you can only sail by.

There are no commercial flights to Antarctica, but certain cruises offer chartered flights from Punta Arenas, Chile, to King George Island in Antarctica, where you start your cruise.

No hotels exist in Antarctica. Your options are expedition cruise ships, research stations, and luxury campsites that start at $62,500.

See More: Ultimate Life Bucket List – 1001 Things to Eat, See, and Do

5. How bad is the Drake Passage? Will I Experience Seasickness?

This was the question people asked us most. Antarctic waters are generally calm, but getting there is the challenge. The Drake Passage is known as one of the world’s most treacherous bodies of water. I was worried because I get seasick even on the calmest waters, but the patch combined with Dramamine and the bands did the trick.

We were also fortunate to be on the Scenic Eclipse II, one of the first discovery yachts specifically made for Antarctica. We had up to 23 ft (7 m) swells, and because the stabilizers are 50% larger than any other ship this size, the captain told us we were only feeling 10% of the Drake Shake. Meanwhile, we saw footage of other ship guests being tossed around. I’m not sure I would visit any other way.

The worst Scenic has ever seen was 26.2 ft (8 m) with 72 knots (82.9 mph) winds. We saw a plate or two falling off tables, but for the most part, everything felt stable.

6. Meds to bring?

Always check with your PCP before taking medication.

If you’re prone to motion sickness, pack Dramamine, Scopapoline patch, motion sickness bands, and/or motion sickness glasses. I used everything except the glasses. I’m unsure which remedy worked best, but I didn’t want to take the chance.

We packed Dramamine and bands, but Scenic Medical also provided motion-sickness meds and patches in limited supply. They ran out on the way back through the Drake Passage, so we had to get some patches from a friend.

We also always pack Imodium and Lactaid for all our travels, which we didn’t need.

7. What Should I Pack For Antarctica? How Should I Dress? Are Life Jackets Provided?

Besides the motion sickness remedies mentioned above, you will need good winter gear, and layering is key (packing list coming soon!). Scenic provided a waterproof winter jacket , muck boots, and life jackets that worked well for all our excursions. All you need to pack are base layers, mid-layers, and a waterproof pant layer . I brought a couple of dresses for dinners, but it wasn’t necessary for this expedition-style trip. If you want to wear cute clothes for the ship, that’s entirely up to you.

Also, pack strong enough sunscreen since Antarctica’s ozone layer is thinner , and fresh snow can reflect up to 90% UV radiation.

Pro Tip: Suitcases larger than 30x21x11 in (76x53x28 cms) or weighing more than 50 lbs (23kg) will have an additional excess baggage fee.

See More: The Best Carry On Luggage + How to Pick the Right Suitcase for You

8. How Cold is Antarctica? What Will the Weather Be Like in Antarctica? What is a Discovery Cruise?

Antarctica is the highest, driest, windiest, and coldest continent, with a record low of -128.6°F (-89.2 °C). Ice covers approximately 98% of the continent. 

You will experience much milder temps since you’re visiting Antarctica in the summer and will be along the peninsula instead of interior Antarctica. During the tourist season, November-March, the temperatures on the Antarctic Peninsula are around 34°F (0 °C) and can even be up to 50°F (10 °C). Our friends in Canada and the Midwest had colder temps than we did on our trip.

Antarctica has a very dynamic environment, so it’s essential to be flexible and roll with the punches. Discovery cruises have no set itinerary, and plans may change each day depending on the weather.

Luckily, our discovery leader and captain on the Scenic Eclipse II were great at pivoting to find suitable microclimates to give us the best experience possible each day. I don’t know if we had a unicorn of a trip, but each day, we thought it could not get any more epic, and then the following day exceeded our expectations.

See More: 13+ Best Jackets for Travel for Any Weather

9. What is the Best Antarctica Cruise? How to Choose an Antarctic Cruise

There is a lot to consider when choosing an Antarctic Cruise. Here are some questions to ask yourself:

• What is your budget?
• Is time off a limitation? When do you want to go? The time of year will dictate what you see and your destinations.
• What type of vessel do you want to be on? What amenities, comforts, and services do you look for? Is environmental responsibility a priority?
• Do you want to step foot in Antarctica or sail by? Is a continental landing important to you vs Antarctic islands?
• Where do you want to go? Do you want to cross the Antarctic Circle? Do you want to include a visit to South Georgia and the Falkland Islands?
• Are you looking for specific wildlife encounters? Do you want to see penguin chicks or seal pups? Do you want to catch them during their mating rituals?
• What about milder temperatures and longer days?
• Are you a photographer looking for pristine landscapes and a lower sun angle?

We loved our Douro river cruise in Portugal several years ago and were excited to travel to Antarctica with Scenic again. Not only is it the most luxurious cruise, but the Scenic Eclipse II has massive stabilizers compared to other ships that make going through the Drake Passage bearable.

We were also impressed with their commitment to sustainability. The Scenic Eclipse II was built with state-of-the-art technology and exceeds all current environmental standards. They already reduced sulfur emissions by up to 95% and are going carbon neutral by 2025 (that’s next year!). 

Besides the reusable bottles, water stations, and refillable toiletries, they have a sustainability officer on board to help further reduce waste. The “smoke” you see is water vapor, food waste gets composted or dehydrated to use as dyes, and gray water is triple-filtered to turn back into clean water. The ship also doesn’t drop an anchor to preserve coral reefs. Whenever possible, they source from local markets and even have an onboard herb garden, which we saw growing microgreens.

See More: What You Need to Know Before Your First Douro River Cruise

10. What is the Currency Used Onboard? Do you need to exchange money? What about tipping?

Antarctica is not a country and doesn’t have its own currency. The currency on board the Scenic Eclipse II was US Dollars. Most Antarctic cruises take US Dollars or Euros.

If you spend extra days in Buenos Aires, it may be worth exchanging your money for pesos to get a better rate, but our guide told us the locals prefer US dollars to pesos right now because of the unstable economy. We only stayed overnight, and the cafe we ate at took credit cards.

11. Do I need a visa When visiting antarctica?

You don’t need a visa for Antarctica, but you must have a valid passport for six months beyond your trip.

12. Vaccines? Is it Dangerous in Antarctica?

During our time in Antarctica, Avian Flu was spreading in the Antarctic Peninsula, mostly among elephant seals. Scenic avoided any areas with known outbreaks, so we didn’t need to worry about it.

When we travel, we like to use Passport Health for vaccines. They have travel clinics in the US, Canada, and UK, and are perfect for what we need.

13. Do I need converters?

We always carry t his power converter and adapter since we have two laptops, two phones, and various other electronics that need charging.

Scenic Eclipse II suites had international power sockets (multi-sockets), USB Type-A sockets, and one 110v 60 Hz United States type power socket with a shaver socket. The onboard electricity is 220 volts and 60 Hz.

For your overnight in Argentina, the standard voltage is 220V. Primary sockets require a Type I or Type C plug.

See More: 15 Carry On Essentials for You to Take On Every Flight

14. What souvenirs to buy when visiting antarctica?

The best souvenirs you’ll bring home when visiting Antarctica are your memories and photos. On our trip, Scenic brought the Point Lockroy team from the UK Antarctic Heritage Trust onboard to share more about their work. They also set up a pop-up post office and gift shop where you can buy souvenirs, with proceeds supporting their research.

We typically only buy consumable souvenirs for friends and family, but since this was such a unique opportunity, we sent postcards from Antarctica .

15. What activities do you do in Antarctica? What is a zodiac?

On our Scenic Eclipse II cruise, they had two daily excursions when the weather allowed. These are the activities on our trip.

• Landings – sometimes included a hike or visits to historic huts.
• Zodiac cruises – you see glaciers, icebergs, and wildlife.
• Kayaking was all tandem. It requires calmer conditions.
• Stand-up paddling – required the calmest conditions. You SUP solo, which can be a quieter, more reflective experience.
• Polar plunge – they made it fun with hot chocolate or alcohol of choice waiting for you when you got out of the water.
• Helicopter ride
• Submarine – this was still being constructed when we were on our trip.

A zodiac is a brand that people now use to refer to a genre of boats. They are durable, inflatable boats we used during our trip to get from ship to land or to view wildlife.

If photographing wildlife is a priority, do a zodiac cruise. It’s easier to get around, and you don’t have to worry about your camera gear as much if you don’t have underwater housing. We preferred to kayak and SUP on days when there wasn’t as much wildlife. 

16. What animals live in Antarctica? Do Polar Bears Live in Antarctica?

Wildlife sightings vary depending on the month and location, but this is what we saw in January.

• Common: Adelie penguins, Chinstrap penguins, Gentoo penguins, Crabeater seals, Weddell seals, Snow petrels, Skuas, Humpback whales.
• Less common: Leopard seals, Antarctic fur seals, Minke whales, Albatross
• Rare: Emperor penguins, Blue whales, South Polar skua, Antarctic petrel, Antarctic fulmar, whole Snow petrel colonies, Ross Sea Killer Whales.

They told us it was rare to see orcas this time of year, but we saw several pods. Polar bears only live in the Arctic.

17. Is there wifi in Antarctica? How is the wifi or cell signal?

We did not have any cell signal, but on the Scenic Eclipse II, we had complimentary wifi, and we were surprised at how good it was throughout the cruise. They don’t guarantee wifi quality because it’s affected by weather and location, but we could access everything we needed.

One of the days we were on the navigation bridge, we saw staff making phone calls, which is crazy to think about because, just over 50 years ago, people were risking their lives to explore the continent. Some guests were streaming Netflix, but others had trouble opening Outlook, which may be because of cyber security protection.

Now, who’s ready for a trip of a lifetime? Do you have any other questions about visiting Antarctica? Any other travel tips you can think of if you’ve been?

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“Discovery consists not of seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes ” – M. Proust

Esther + Jacob

Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.

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The 10 Antarctica questions you want answered

Before you book your adventurous expedition cruise, it’s important to get all the facts.

There’s no place on Earth more remote (or more breathtaking, literally) than Antarctica. So, if you’re considering a trip there, I don’t blame you. But wanting to journey to the 7 th continent is a big decision that should be properly thought about.

Like how are you supposed to pick the right cruise for you? How many people will be on the ship? When should you go? The questions are endless, but that’s what this blog is for. Your Antarctica expedition doesn’t start as soon as you get on the ship or even on the flight to Argentina. It starts right now. And to make sure your voyage is smooth, these are the 10 questions to ask before you begin the booking process.

Discover our Antarctica cruises

1. How many people are there on an Antarctica ship?

The International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators (or IAATO) has put in place several strict governing rules to help protect Antarctica’s pristine environment, so there’s actually a cap on activities expedition ships can participate in depending on how many passengers they’re carrying.

Ships with over 500 passengers are not permitted to make shore landings, making them cruise-only adventures without the opportunity to explore by zodiac or set foot on the Antarctic Peninsula. However, ships carrying fewer passengers than that, still have a cap on how many can actually partake in shore landings at once. Only 100 people are permitted to be on shore at the one time, so ships with more passengers have to alternate shore outings.

If you want to maximize your time in Antarctica fully, opt for a ship that has 200 passengers or less. While this might make your cruise more expensive, your journey will be a more personal experience and you’ll have more flexibility with activities.

Related: Why you should visit Antarctica

2. When should I travel to Antarctica?

Antarctica’s peak season (and best time to travel ) falls between November and March when temperatures are at their warmest and days are at their longest, resulting in enough melted sea ice to enable access for cruise ships. Due to Antarctica’s remote location deep in the Southern Hemisphere, travelling outside these months is pretty much impossible.

But, in terms of the best month, there really isn’t one. Each of the five months promises spectacular scenery and fascinating wildlife, so you can’t really go wrong. To help you decide which month you should travel in, consider the type of wildlife that will be more active and what activities you’re most looking forward to.

3. Does the ship I’m on help protect the environment?

I can’t speak for Antarctica cruises run by other tour operators, but at Intrepid, we’re deeply committed to being a responsible business and have a great understanding of the impact we have on the places we visit. Our Antarctica cruises onboard the Ocean Endeavour are no exception. Every Intrepid trip is 100% carbon neutral, but Antarctica’s fragile ecosystem calls for extra help.

So, we’re further focusing on inspiring travellers, supporting science and protecting the environment. This means we want to educate every passenger on the environmental dangers facing Antarctica and inspire them to care about the natural world around them. We’re supporting Antarctica researchers and experts by partnering with WWF (World Wildlife Foundation) and abiding by IAATO guidelines. We’re also committed to minimizing our environmental impact and promoting conservation in Antarctica.

And we’re only getting started. There’s plenty more for us to learn and do, including investing in a new energy-efficient ship, building stronger partnerships and improving our supply chain. In other words, watch this space.

Related: How can a responsible tour operator run trips in Antarctica?

4. How many shore landings can I expect?

Making the journey across the Drake Passage might be half the fun, but the real question is, once you’re in Antarctica, how many times can you actually leave the ship? Different cruise operators have different restrictions but onboard the Ocean Endeavour, we offer not one but two daily excursions on land and at sea (via zodiacs).

While this is dependent on permitting weather conditions, we don’t call our Antarctica cruises ‘hands-on, feet-on adventures’ for nothing. We want you to see as much of the icy white continent as possible, including trying your hand at sea kayaking, participating in naturalist-led walks and even going snow-camping (yes, you read that right).

5. What makes cruises cheaper/more expensive?

The pricing of Antarctica cruises can differ a lot depending on the time of year, the number of days, the ship size and its included amenities. Ships that carry up to 500 passengers are generally cheaper because you cannot participate in shore landings. However, if you’re opting for a smaller ship with less passengers, expect the cruise cost to be higher.

Like I mentioned before, every Intrepid cruise to Antarctica aims to have passengers complete two excursions per day, which factors into the cruise’s overall cost. The Ocean Endeavour also has plenty of premium amenities for passengers to use while crossing the Drake Passage or if the weather affects planned activities.

These amenities include a gym, a polar library, a bar staffed by professional bartenders, spa treatments, yoga & stretching classes, his & hers saunas and a heated saltwater pool. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg. While Antarctica cruises aren’t cheap, it’s best to spend a bit extra in order to maximize your once-in-a-lifetime adventure.  

6. How many zodiac boats does the ship have?

It’s a bit hard to navigate large expedition ships close to the Antarctic Peninsula (read: impossible), that’s where the zodiacs come in. Zodiacs are inflatable, motorized boats that transport passengers to and from the ship for sea excursions and shore landings. So, you want to ensure your ship has plenty of zodiac boats to go ‘round to make moving passengers as easy and time efficient as possible.

Luckily, the Ocean Endeavour has 22 zodiacs, multiple loading ports and a sizeable mudroom for taking on and off your polar gear. We know which Antarctic expedition ship we’d choose.

7. What is the crew-to-passenger ratio onboard?

The higher the crew-to-passenger ratio onboard an Antarctica ship the better and the Ocean Endeavour has a ratio of 1:8. Yep, one crew member for every 8 passengers. That’s pretty much as good as it gets. This means you’ll enjoy a more informative, personal and comfortable journey with polar experts and experienced crew members ready to answer your every question, conduct fascinating seminars, help you on and off zodiacs, accompany you on shore landings and every other little thing in between.

Related: Meet Martin, our Antarctica expedition guide 

8. Do I need to be fit to go on an Antarctica cruise?

While there aren’t any fitness requirements for Antarctica , you still need to possess a decent level of fitness to enjoy your time as zodiac excursions, shore landings and even walking around the ship during rough conditions can be tricky to navigate. Overall good health, great core strength and an ability to move around freely are three must-haves you need to consider before booking your expedition.

However, all of our Antarctica cruises have a physical rating of 2 and don’t include anything overly strenuous. And, if you haven’t got your sea legs yet or if you do need a helping hand, handrails are fitted around the ship, so navigation is easy and comfortable. The ship is also fitted with a lift, but it doesn’t grant access to all decks and can be closed for maintenance on some departures, so being able to climb stairs is necessary.

In short, putting in some extra time at the gym before you leave, or even ramping up your daily walks, can help improve your overall Antarctic enjoyment.

9. Can I travel solo to Antarctica?

Travelling to Antarctica completely on your own isn’t really possible. There are no hotels on the Antarctic Peninsula, and you can’t organize your own flight or private ship to get there, but you can travel as a solo passenger on an expedition ship. We’ve already established that you won’t be alone onboard the Ocean Endeavour with a crew-to-passenger ratio of 1:8 and a maximum of 200 passengers just as eager as you to explore the great, white continent.

We also provide flexible rooming arrangements including twin share cabins and single supplements. However, on some departures and for selected cabin categories, solo travellers won’t have to pay for a single supplement if they want their own room, but not the hefty price tag that comes with it.

Related: What’s it like as a solo passenger in Antarctica?

10. What’s included in the cost of the cruise?

Cruises to Antarctica aren’t cheap, so it’s only natural to want to know exactly what you’re spending your money on. There are a number of inclusions that drive the price of your cruise higher. These are often:

• All meals onboard (including 24/7 tea and coffee)
• Excursions and shore landings
• Onboard activities such as lectures and seminars from polar experts
• Expedition team to guide you on your journey

Intrepid also includes one night of pre-cruise accommodation in the departure location and the Ocean Endeavour also has premium amenities that you can use for the duration of your cruise including WIFI and onboard laundry service for those that wish to pay for a few creature comforts from home.

Interested in Antarctica?

Kate Gazzard

When I was 11, my parents asked me whether I wanted a pool for the house or a trip to Fiji. I chose Fiji, and I've made travelling as much as I can a priority ever since.

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How to Travel to Antarctica

Last Updated: July 27, 2023 Approved

This article was co-authored by Angela Rice . Angela Rice is a Luxury Travel Specialist and Co-Founder of Boutique Travel Advisors, a luxury travel advising business in Phoenix, Arizona. Angela specializes in consulting and curating highly customized and unique travel itineraries for clients seeking luxury, group, and multi-generational family travel. Angela studied at Arizona State University and The University of Iowa Tippie College of Business. She has prior consulting experience in accounting and business, which helps her run her business behind the scenes. Angela has been featured in The Washington Post, Reader's Digest, Travel Weekly, USA Today, Travel Market Report, Phoenix Magazine, and MSN. She is also a frequent guest on WBBM News Radio 105.9 FM's Travel Tuesday show. There are 13 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. This article received 19 testimonials and 89% of readers who voted found it helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 876,766 times.

Travelling to Antarctica is one of the most exhilarating trips you will ever take. Although it's expensive, it's truly spectacular. A trip to Antarctica is something that you and your travelling companions will never forget. It is an inhospitable and distant place, so travelling there is unlike travelling almost anywhere else. There are, however, a number of possibilities for intrepid explorers who want to witness the majesty of this frozen continent. Whether you want to take a few weeks exploring on a ship, or fly over it in a day, with some careful planning, and a generous budget, you can have the trip of a lifetime.

Travelling to Antarctica by Ship

• Most voyages to the Antarctic Peninsular region leave from Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego in Argentina, Port Stanley in the Falkland Islands and a few leave from Punta Arenas in Chile, Buenos Aires in Argentina, or Puerto Madryn in Argentina.

• In high seas, larger ships are the most comfortable but the strict guidelines on how many people can visit the shore will limit your opportunities for shore visits.
• Smaller ships allow for more time on shore. This is because tourist guidelines limit landings of tour groups to 100 people. [3] X Research source
• All reputable cruise operators will be registered with the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO), so this is good place to consult during your planning. They support environmentally friendly travel to Antarctica. [4] X Research source
• The costs for these cruises will vary, but for a ten day trip expect to pay at least $4500, whereas for the longer trips it could be from $12,750-$16,000.

• For these smaller ships, the conditions are much more treacherous than the larger cruise ships. [6] X Research source
• This is a very expensive option that could cost more than $1000 a day for each traveller. [7] X Research source

• Prices start from around $8,000 for the month.

Flying to Antarctica

• Australia is now the only place you can take these flights from. [10] X Research source
• You need to plan ahead if you want to do this and book early.
• If you want to get up and close and see the wildlife this is not the choice for you.
• Depending on your seats, tickets will cost anything from $1,000 to $8,000. [11] X Research source

• Some adventure holiday companies have deals which involve landing on Antarctica and skiing, camping and climbing. [12] X Research source
• You can fly to King George Island from Punta Arenas in Chile and stay overnight at a camp there for tourists.

• This could be a good option if you want to see the ice and wildlife up close, but don’t want to spend so much time travelling on board a cruise ship. But it won’t be any cheaper.
• Expect to pay something in the region of $10,000 to $14,000 for a two-week trip. [13] X Research source

Planning Your Trip

• During November, the pack ice starts to break up and it's mating season for the penguins and other birds.
• During December and January, the penguin chicks hatch and are fed and nurtured in the breeding grounds.
• During February and March, the penguin chicks fledge, the adult penguins molt, and the whales are easy to spot. [14] X Research source

• It is possible to get cheap last minute deals with cruise ships in places like Ushuaia in Argentina. You need to be in town, flexible, and able to set off straight away. This is a risky option, but if it works you could save quite a lot of money. [16] X Research source
• If you don't want to visit as a tourist, think of other options, such as joining a government expedition to Antarctica. For this, you'll likely need suitable technical, scientific, medical, or other relevant skills like cooking for a large group. You will also need to be considered to have a suitable background for government employment. [17] X Research source
• Another possibility is to travel as an invited part of a crew. Some people get asked to come along as journalists, photographers, artists, etc., and their trip is covered by whoever invited or sent them along. Again, this will depend on your skills.

• Read up on the gear and clothing you need. You will definitely need excellent waterproof clothing! Your cruise ship will most likely have things to hire if you don’t have them, but they might not be a great fit. [18] X Research source
• There are no vaccination requirements for Antarctica but you should be fit and in good health because medical treatment will be basic and spread thin among all your passengers. Any medical conditions that you do have should be detailed by your doctor in letter form, especially if you need to bring along medication.

• Don't go too near wildlife and don't do anything to disturb wildlife.
• Don't litter.
• Don't deface anything – all human-built structures have historical value and many huts, etc., have heritage listings. Do not engrave anything into rocks or other land features.
• Take photos and nothing else. Leave all eggs, shells, plants, rocks, fossils, soil, etc., where they are.

Expert Q&A

• Reputable tour guides subscribe to the visitor provisions of the Antarctic Treaty; review the contents of this treaty and its accompanying guidelines before you go. Thanks Helpful 54 Not Helpful 28
• Check with your federal government about how to be a 'good citizen' in the wild. (There is no local sovereignty over Antarctica and your behaviour is governed by your federal government's laws.) Thanks Helpful 19 Not Helpful 8

• Weather in Antarctica is extreme. Be prepared for intense sun, wild wind, ice, and extreme cold. Thanks Helpful 52 Not Helpful 13
• Verify with your photo equipment vendor that your photo equipment can withstand extreme weather. Thanks Helpful 43 Not Helpful 20
• Travel to Antarctica can be very expensive but if you can afford it, it is an amazing tour. Thanks Helpful 7 Not Helpful 4
• Be careful when exposed to sunlight in that area, as it has an ozone hole. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

Things You'll Need

• Appropriate clothing, footwear, and other items such as goggles, gloves, and a balaclava. Be sure to ask the tour company for its suggested list of items, as well as finding out what the tour company will provide
• Medications that you normally take with you
• Books and journals to while away travel time
• Camera and batteries, check whether they will work in the cold
• Personal snacks you'd like to have that you know the tour company won't supply
• Visitor's Guidelines for Antarctica, and the Antarctica Treaty. All this documentation can be accessed via the internet before leaving

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• ↑ Angela Rice. Luxury Travel Specialist. Expert Interview. 18 September 2020.
• ↑ http://www.coolantarctica.com/Travel/antarctica_travel_home.php
• ↑ http://iaato.org/home
• ↑ http://iaato.org/service-providers-and-operators
• ↑ http://iaato.org/yachts
• ↑ http://www.goldenfleecexp.co.fk/english/prices_en.html
• ↑ http://www.discoverfrance.net/Colonies/Marion_Dufresne_ship.shtml
• ↑ http://adventuresallaround.com/antarctica-flights-review-sightseeing-frozen-continent/
• ↑ http://www.antarcticaflights.com.au/
• ↑ http://www.antarcticaflights.com.au/home#seating
• ↑ http://www.coolantarctica.com/Travel/antarctica_travel_2.php
• ↑ http://matadornetwork.com/trips/how-to-travel-to-antarctica/
• ↑ http://www.usap.gov/jobsAndOpportunities/

About This Article

The easiest way to travel to Antarctica is to take a cruise ship from Argentina. These cruises generally last between 10 days and 3 weeks and will cost between $4500 and $16,000 per person. If you would prefer to see Antarctica from above, book a sightseeing flight that leaves from Australia, which will cost between $1000 and $8000. You could also fly to King George Island from South Africa, Australia, or Chile, but expect to pay at least $5000 per person. For more ways to travel to Antarctica and what to do when you get there, read on. Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Poseidon Expeditions - your polar cruise operator

Basic Antarctica travel restrictions

The good news is there aren’t too many hoops to jump through to visit Antarctica. Once you reach the departure port and board our small expedition ship, we’ll take care of all permits, accommodation, excursions, delicious gourmet meals, workshops, seminars, entertainment and anything that will make your experience outstanding. What do we need from you? You’ll have to arrange airfare from your place of residence, purchase travel insurance and obtain a visa to enter Argentina if necessary. But don’t worry, we can assist with this leg of your journey as well. Let us know if you need help with corresponding with the respective consulates or advice on booking flights. We are a highly experienced polar cruise operator and we know how to help take the burden off. Oh, and by the way, the first night prior to our cruise is on us – we’ll book you into a quality hotel at the departure port.

How do you get to Antarctica?

There’s lots of ways to get there, but let’s focus on the most convenient ones. After all, you’re looking for a fun adventure and not an arduous and difficult journey. And, please, do not attempt to make it to Antarctica on your own homemade raft….

If you want to be able to say you visited Antarctica and take some beautiful pictures to prove your conquest, you can choose a charter flight to the White Continent. Some operators offer to fly directly to the Antarctic Peninsula and then just board a short cruise around the area. This is an option for those who absolutely cannot overcome seasickness and want to skip the Drake Passage.

Want the real deal? Book a full expedition cruise to Antarctica ! Trust us, this is the right way to discover it and will make for the best memories that last a lifetime. You’ll experience a real polar expedition aboard a small 114-passenger expedition ship, visit lectures and workshops, join citizen science projects, cruise in Zodiac boats, kayak, land on beautiful beaches and shores and enjoy unbelievable views and wildlife. Depending on your budget and availability, we have 3 epic Antarctic cruises for you:

Essential highlights  Cruise aboard the Sea spirit straight to the Antarctic Peninsula, crossing the infamous Drake Passage. See iconic wildlife and icebergs and set foot on the White Continent. This is an 11–12-day cruise for those who are on a budget and have limited time to explore. This departure also has a special Christmas and New Year cruise option! Choose your Antarctica cruise !

Going South  Cruise further south than any other expedition in 15 days. Head to the Antarctic Peninsula and then push further south, attempting to cross 66º South Latitude (the Antarctic Circle). 

See it all  Got some time? Want to see it all? Then we recommend the most unique cruise there is: Falklands, South Georgia Island and Antarctic Peninsula. This will lead you from the lush green homesteads and quaint British flair of the Falklands, via South Georgia (paradise on Earth with iconic wildlife and breathtaking scenery) to the Antarctic Peninsula. Reserve 21-23 days for this epic cruise and be prepared for the adventure of a lifetime! Learn more about our  Antarctic wildlife adventure cruises.

Visit Antarctica with a polar cruise operator

It’s all about the right organization. Even if you normally travel on your own and explore off the beaten path, you will need a professional to make your Antarctica cruise magical. But how to find the best polar expedition cruise provider for the adventure of a lifetime?

Size matters! Check that your cruise ship is small, but comfortable (like, for example, our expedition ship, the Sea Spirit ). Only a limited number of people are allowed to land at once in Antarctica and, with a small cruise ship, you’ll avoid having to wait your turn. Most expedition ships also feature comfortable cabins of various comfort levels, lecture halls, gourmet restaurants, a polar library, gym, bar and a fleet of kayaks and small inflatable Zodiac boats for sea excursions and landings.

Experience is key! Choose a cruise provider with many years of experience in the polar regions. This is specifically important because you want everything to run smoothly in such remote places. Real professionals will also know exactly where to spot wildlife, the best areas to land and how to make it the trip of your life.

How do you visit Antarctica?

Preparing and packing list Your heart is set and you are ready to go. But how to start preparing for your big adventure in Antarctica? Use our check-list for first-time travelers:

1 . Contact the polar cruise tour operator of your choice. You can also call or write a direct message. At Poseidon Expeditions, we’re delighted to help you personally find the best cruise that suits your taste of adventure, budget and time frame.

2 . Choose your cruise. Select the itinerary, departure date, cabin category and don’t forget to book extra activities such as camping or kayaking in Antarctica. There are only a few spots on each cruise and you wouldn’t want to miss out.

3 . Get your visas (if applicable), travel insurance and book your flights.

4 . Get your gear. Pack warm clothes for dressing in layers, starting with thermal underwear (e.g., from merino wool, no cotton), second layers that are warm but breathable, wind- and water-proofs on top. Don’t forget hats, gloves and warm socks, sunglasses, sunscreen, any medication you require, cameras, laptops, battery packs and chargers. Don’t forget comfortable shoes and clothes for on board and consider one smart casual outfit for those special dinner or party nights aboard. We do provide special footwear for shore landings that is yours for the duration of the cruise and a warm expedition parka for you to keep after your trip as a souvenir!

5 . Come aboard and start your adventure. Once your trip is confirmed, you’ll make your way to the departure port where we’ll meet you!

How to get to Antarctica

There are lots of ways to get there, but let’s focus on the most convenient ones. After all, you’re looking for a fun adventure and not an arduous and difficult journey. The best way to get to Antarctica is aboard a cruise. You can ditch sailing the icy seas and crossing the Drake Passage by taking a plane, for example, from Punta Arenas (Chile) to King George Island. But, whatever you choose, please do not attempt to make it to Antarctica on your own homemade raft….

How to get to Antarctica from the USA

Direct flights from major US capitals will take you to Buenos Aires in around 11-12 hours. In case your cruise depart from Ushuaia, you will need to board another flight (about 4 hours) to reach the southern tip of Argentina.

How to get to Antarctica from the UK

Your journey will start with one or several international flights to reach South America, where cruise ships depart from ports like Ushuaia and Buenos Aires. You can book a direct flight from London to Buenos Aires, which will get you there in around 14 hours. Options via Madrid tend to be cheaper, but your travel time may be longer. If you depart your cruise in Ushuaia, budget in another 4-hour flight from Buenos Aires.

How to get to Antarctica from Canada

From Toronto you will usually have to change planes at least once (for example, in Santiago de Chile, New York or Miami) to reach Buenos Aires. Travel time is approximately 14 hours. Add 4 hours more by plane to your travel schedule in case your cruise leaves from Ushuaia.

How to get to Antarctica from the Australia

To reach the departure ports in Ushuaia and Buenos Aires, schedule about 1-2 days travel time when coming from Australia. Flights leave Sydney and arrive in Buenos Aires with at least one stopover (when transferring through the US) or two stopovers (via transfers in New Zealand and Chile). Add another 4 hours by plane if you’re starting your cruise in Ushuaia.  

Top 7 reasons to visit Antarctica

Incredible wildlife sightings

Visiting Antarctica will let you discover the amazing fauna! See penguins (including king penguins on South Georgia Island), marine mammals such as elephant and fur seals and the whales that roam the Antarctic waters.

A birders paradise

Albatrosses, snow petrels, skuas, Antarctic shags – see rare seabirds in their natural habitat. A stop on the Falkland Islands with their abundance of rare species is a must for bird lovers!

Heroic exploration history

Follow in the footsteps of your favorite polar explorers and learn about their bravery (such as the survival story of Shackleton’s expedition, after its ship, the Endurance, got stuck in pack ice in the Weddell Sea).

Icebergs, mountains and glaciers

See the biggest icebergs, dramatic mountain ranges, sea ice and incredible bays. It’s a dream come true for professional and amateur photographers.

Diverse polar landscapes

Depending on the cruise you choose, you will not only explore the Antarctic Continent and the Antarctic Peninsula, but also and the subantarctic islands. See the differences in climate, weather and wildlife.

A unique place that belongs to no country

Visit this amazing place that belongs to no nation in the world, but is utilized for Antarctic research, peaceful and scientific use only, in accordance with the Antarctica treaty.

An unforgettable Antarctic adventure with memories that last a lifetime

It’s incredibly remote and few people set foot on the continent. Meet like-minded travelers from all over the world and get your bragging rights for reaching Antarctica.

Embarking on a cruise to the Arctic or Antarctica is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that will leave you awestruck and inspired.

Feel free to book any of our Antarctic cruises.

Begin with the classic Antarctic journey, immersing yourself in the charm of penguins, icebergs, and an exclusive 11-day experience.

Antarctic Peninsula - New Year in Antarctica - 6 Dec - 17 Dec 2024

Or choose our Christmas expedition, where you can explore the Antarctic Peninsula during its most magical time.

Antarctic Peninsula - New Year in Antarctica - 26 Dec - 06 Jan 2025

If you're dreaming of the ultimate journey, join our Antarctic Wildlife adventure, which takes you to Falkland Island, South Georgia,  South Shetland Island and the Antarctic Peninsula in one cruise.

Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctica - Antarctic Wildlife Adventure - 05 Jan - 25 Jan 2025

How much does it cost to go to Antarctica?

Prices depend on voyage durations and itineraries, but you can book a cruise to the Antarctic Peninsula starting from ca. $10,000 for the 2024-25 polar cruising season. (For those who decide quickly, we have a cruise leaving December 10 th , 2023 for $8 895 and December 19 th , 2023 for $ 9 695). Comment Ev: if you publish this after that dates - maybe better delete. Additional activities can be booked upon request. While we cannot offer experiences like scuba diving in the icy waters, we do offer kayaking and camping in Antarctica!

How far is Antarctica from South America?

Cruise ships cross from South America to Antarctica in around 50 hours (crossing the Drake Passage).

Can you legally go to Antarctica?

Yes, you don’t need a visa and the permit that is needed will be organized by your polar expedition cruise operator.

Requirements to travel to Antarctica

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What are the requirements you need to be able to travel to Antarctica? – How do you travel to Antarctica

Antarctica, the White Continent is a truly unique place. From its phenomenal landscapes to its diverse wildlife, no other place on the planet comes close to its beauty.

And that’s not the only thing that makes it a special destination.

From a political point of view, did you know that it is the only continent on earth without an official government and without permanent residents?

That is because in 1959 a group of countries signed a treaty where today more than 40 nations recognize Antarctica as a continent without a homeland and destined for scientific research.

Visiting Antarctica is an experience that everyone should have at least once in their life.

Whether you like to ride with emperor penguins or kayak in the company of humpback whales, or maybe even climb one of the seven highest peaks in the world, there are many reasons to want to pack your bags and travel to Antarctica! !

Visa requirements

Antarctica does not belong to any government or jurisdiction, so visas are not required.

However, citizens of nations that have signed the Antarctic Treaty Environmental Protection Protocol (US, Canada, EU and Australia) must obtain prior permission before visiting.

Don’t worry though, as this is arranged through your licensed tour operator.

Travel insurance

To be able to embark on Antarctica, you will need a fairly comprehensive travel insurance, surely not enough with the one you use for your other trips.

It is important that your travel insurance covers an evacuation from the Antarctic continent and the city of Ushuaia .

We recommend that you check with your trusted insurer, we know that for example in Spain the insurance of the automobile club of Catalonia and Madrid includes it.

Affidavit of good health

In addition to the aforementioned travel insurance, the shipping company will ask you to sign an affidavit of your good health.

Be transparent with your statement, if you have or have had any illness, communicate it transparently.

They will not prevent you from traveling, but they do want to know the general health of the passengers.

My organised trips to Patagonia

In the carousel below you can see already assembled itineraries for inspiration, click on the one you are interested in and ask me for a quote.

Compact trip through the southernmost Argentinean Patagonia: Ushuaia and El Calafate

Enjoy the 3 most relevant ecosystems in Argentina: The End of the World, The Glaciers and the Iguazu Falls.

Trip to Patagonia Argentina in 7 days touring the most beautiful landscapes of Patagonia Argentina (Peninsula Valdés & El Calafate)

The Carretera Austral by rental car is probably one of the most spectacular routes in Patagonia, designed to be travelled with plenty of time in your rental car.

Tour along Route 40 in Patagonia, starting on Route 3 on the Atlantic coast and continuing along Route 40 until reaching the Andes Mountains and El Calafate.

The Australis Cruises are Expedition Cruises that sail through the Strait of Magellan and the Beagle Channel, exploring one of the most beautiful and unspoiled regions of the world such as Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego.

The Antarctic Cruise aboard the MV USHUAIA offers you an incredible introduction to the 'White Continent' at a reasonable price.

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For more than 20 years I help foreign travellers to organise their trip to Patagonia.

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Navigating Carry-On Luggage Requirements Across Continents

Last Updated on January 25, 2024

Carrying the right luggage can make or break your travel experience. Understanding the intricate carry-on luggage requirements for different continents is crucial for a hassle-free journey. Let’s guide you on what you need to know before you pack your bags.

Carry-on luggage regulations vary not only by continent but also by the airline, with some universal dimensions but differing weight limits. While dimensions are relatively standard, weight restrictions can significantly vary, and they are strictly enforced by most airlines.

Carry-On Luggage Requirements by Continent

Here are the luggage requirements by continent: 

However, travelers should note that low-cost carriers might have stricter limits. In some, additional items like laptops or handbags could be counted separately. 

For those journeying through multiple Asian countries, it’s advisable to pack light to accommodate the varying domestic flight restrictions.

For light aircraft flights in East Africa, specifically in countries like Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda, the luggage weight limit is set at 15 kg. This limit includes both your main bag and any hand luggage. The dimensions for each piece should be 30 cm in x 30 cm x 70 cm.

In the case of light aircraft flights across Southern Africa, the weight allowance varies from 15 kg to 20 kg, depending on your specific destination within these countries. Confirm the exact allowance, as this limit includes your main bag and hand luggage. The size requirements remain the same for East Africa.

For both regions, your main bag is entirely soft-sided. This flexibility is necessary to fit into the small cargo holds of light aircraft. Rigid bags with wheels or hard suitcases are unsuitable as they cannot be accommodated in the compartments of these light aircraft.

North America

In North America, the average weight allowance for carry-on luggage is between 10-12 kg, with the size typically consistent with the international standard of 22 x 14 x 9 inches. While most airlines permit a personal item besides your carry-on, budget airlines might impose extra charges. Despite the relatively lenient weight policies, travelers should remain vigilant about the size restrictions.

South America

Carry-on luggage in South America usually adheres to an 8 to 10 kg weight limit, with dimension standards. Travelers should know that domestic airlines within South America might have more restrictive policies. Check specific requirements with the airline, particularly for intra-continental flights.

Antarctica has unique luggage requirements, determined mainly by the policies of gateway countries like Argentina or Chile and specific expedition guidelines. Due to the extreme climate and environmental sensitivity, specialized equipment and clothing are necessary. 

Your total luggage, including carry-on items, should not exceed 20 kg for air cruises to Antarctica. Contact their tour operator for particular luggage advice tailored to Antarctic conditions.

In Europe, the carry-on luggage typically must fit within the standard dimensions, with a weight range of 8 to 12 kg. Travelers should be particularly cautious with budget airlines, which enforce strict policies and may impose significant fees for excess luggage. 

For those with extra belongings, consider options like luggage storage in Copenhagen . European airlines are known for strictly enforcing carry-on policies, so utilizing luggage storage services can help you manage your belongings efficiently.

The typical carry-on allowance in Australia aligns with the international standard, usually falling between seven and 10 kg. However, domestic flights within Australia may have stricter weight limits. Travelers should pack lighter when planning domestic travel within Australia to avoid extra charges.

Additional Tips for a Smooth Travel Experience

For hassle-free travel, consider the following tips: 

Check airline websites

Before packing, check the airline’s website for the most up-to-date carry-on luggage requirements. Airlines often update their policies, so relying on past experiences or general guidelines can be misleading. Each airline has its own set of rules that can vary significantly, especially regarding weight limits and additional items. This step is crucial to avoid any inconveniences or extra fees at the airport.

Consider multi-destination trips

When planning a trip spanning multiple continents, it’s wise to pack according to the strictest carry-on regulations. This approach ensures you remain compliant across different airlines and countries. 

Remember that the strictest limit might not necessarily be about weight or size. Sometimes, it’s about the type of items you can carry. Adhering to the most restrictive policy can save you from repacking or incurring extra charges during your journey.

Invest in luggage scales

Investing in a portable luggage scale is a smart move for frequent travelers. It allows you to check the weight of your carry-on luggage from the comfort of your home or hotel, helping you avoid overweight fees at the airport. Knowing your luggage’s weight in advance can provide peace of mind and a smoother check-in process.

Travel Light and Stay Flexible 

Staying informed about potential changes through the airline’s communication channels or regularly checking their website is critical. Being flexible and ready to adapt to these changes can make your travel experience much less stressful.

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