Planning an Antarctica Trip: Everything You Can Do
Antarctica trips aren’t one-size-fits-all. Here’s how to plan yours.
When to go
The season runs from roughly November to March.
- Early season (Nov–Dec): Pristine snow, penguin courtship and nest building, and lots of ice.
- Peak summer (Dec–Jan): The warmest temperatures, longest days and chicks hatching
- Late season (Feb–Mar): Whale watching is at its best, penguin chicks are fledging, and the light is softer.
How to get there
- Classic expedition cruise: Most trips depart from Ushuaia, Argentina, and cross the Drake Passage (about two days each way), which can be rough or calm.
- Fly-cruise: Fly over the Drake from Punta Arenas, Chile, and begin your cruise on the other side. It’s faster and skips the sea crossing.
- Longer voyages: Itineraries that include the Falkland Islands and South Georgia add incredible wildlife and history.
Activities you can plan
- Zodiac cruises among icebergs and wildlife
- Landings at penguin colonies and historic huts
- Kayaking in calm, ice-filled bays (usually an add-on).
- Camping on the ice for a night under the open sky
- Snowshoeing and hiking to viewpoints
- Polar plunge for the brave
- Photography workshops and wildlife talks
- Mountaineering or skiing on specialist trips
- Citizen science programmes, like whale and bird counts
- Extreme options such as flights to the South Pole or climbing Mount Vinson, for experienced adventurers
Practical planning tips
- Book early. Ships are small and the best cabins sell out a year or more ahead.
- Choose a reputable operator that follows IAATO guidelines for responsible tourism.
- Budget for extras: flights to Ushuaia or Punta Arenas, gear, insurance (with medical evacuation), and optional activities.
- Pack smart: layers, waterproof outer shells, good gloves, sunglasses and sunscreen (the glare is strong). Many operators lend boots and parkas.
- Prepare for seasickness if you’re crossing the Drake.
- Check health and fitness requirements. Most landings are easy, but you need to be steady on your feet.
Choosing your style
Pick a smaller ship for more landings, a bigger one for comfort, or a fly-cruise if you’re short on time. The best trip is the one that fits your pace, budget and interests.
At Travellers Journey, we believe extraordinary journeys deserve thoughtful planning.
An Antarctica expedition involves much more than selecting a departure date. From choosing the right itinerary and expedition experience to coordinating international travel and the details around your journey, every element matters.
If Antarctica has been on your travel list, speak with the Travellers Journey team about creating a journey designed around your time, interests and expectations.
Your next journey doesn't have to be ordinary.
Planning your journey?
Speak with our team about the kind of experience you have in mind.
