Antarctica, the 7th continent, a land of ice and mystery at the bottom of the world. It often appears in nature documentaries and history books, making it seem distant and unreachable. But the truth is, it’s not only possible to visit Antarctica, but it’s becoming increasingly accessible to adventurous travelers.
Despite its remoteness, Antarctica welcomed over 45,000 tourists in the 2016-2017 season alone, hailing from countries like the United States, China, Australia, Germany, and more. The key is knowing how to get there. This article will explain how you can visit Antarctica from almost anywhere in the world.
How to Travel to Antarctica: Your Options
One of the most frequent questions is: “How do I even get to Antarctica?” The easiest way involves traveling to Buenos Aires, Argentina, or Punta Arenas, Chile. Both cities boast international airports with connections worldwide.
Most Antarctic expeditions depart from Ushuaia, Argentina, a short 3.5-hour flight from Buenos Aires. During the Antarctic summer, Ushuaia’s port serves as a hub for expedition ships heading south.
These voyages access Antarctica by sea, crossing the Drake Passage, a 600-mile (1,000 kilometer) stretch of water between South America and the Antarctic Peninsula. This crossing usually takes about 1.5 days and provides opportunities to spot wildlife like the wandering albatross.
Alternatively, travelers can fly from Punta Arenas, Chile, to an airstrip near the Antarctic Peninsula. This option skips the Drake Passage, allowing you to reach glaciers and penguins just hours after departure.
When to Visit Antarctica: Timing Your Trip
The ideal time to travel to Antarctica is during the southern hemisphere’s late spring to early fall, from October to March. The season begins in late October/early November when the sea ice recedes, opening access to pristine landscapes. Voyages continue until mid-March, when the Antarctic autumn begins.
Antarctic Expedition Length: Tailoring Your Adventure
Antarctic expeditions vary in length, offering options from focused trips to extensive explorations. Some itineraries concentrate solely on Antarctica, while others include the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas) and South Georgia.
“Express” expeditions, with flights to the Antarctic Peninsula, can last as little as eight days. More extensive explorations, encompassing sub-Antarctic islands and the continent, can extend to three weeks or more.
The most common expeditions last about nine to ten days, with five days dedicated to exploring Antarctica. These voyages typically sail from Ushuaia, embracing the Drake Passage. Time at sea varies based on conditions, usually taking 1.5 to 2 days each way, with the remainder spent along the Antarctic Peninsula.
For those seeking a deeper experience, extended voyages of twenty days or more explore the Southern Ocean and its islands. These include visits to the Falkland Islands and South Georgia, alongside the Antarctic Peninsula.
Antarctic Expedition vs. Cruise: What’s the Difference?
An authentic expedition ship provides the best way to immerse yourself in Antarctica. Unlike large cruise ships, expedition vessels are smaller, allowing travelers to get closer to the continent and set foot on its glacial landscapes.
Large cruise ships may carry 500-2,000 passengers and offer brief glimpses of Antarctica. Expedition ships typically carry 70-200 passengers, adhering to tourism regulations. Smaller group sizes enable daily landings, intimate Zodiac cruises among icebergs and wildlife, and a more profound exploration of the Antarctic Peninsula.
Expedition ships have reinforced, ice-class rated hulls, designed to withstand contact with sea ice. They are self-sufficient for weeks, navigating the Antarctic coastline. These trips embody the spirit of exploration, with all necessities prepared in advance.
A variety of expedition vessels are available, with options for size, accommodations, and adventure. Consulting a Polar Travel Advisor can help you find the perfect ship for your preferences.
Activities in Antarctica: More Than Just Sightseeing
Expedition trips offer daily opportunities to experience the Antarctic environment. While sailing, most voyages make landfalls, allowing you to walk among penguins and seals, hike to vantage points, or contemplate glaciers and icebergs. Daily Zodiac cruises provide access to sculpted icebergs, marine life, and remote areas.
Additional adventure options allow you to personalize your journey, including overnight camping on the ice.
Camping in Antarctica
Camping involves setting up your sleeping bag under the Antarctic skies, offering a unique connection to the continent.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding in Antarctica
Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) can be a perfect way to experience Antarctica, offering intimate encounters with penguins, whales, and seals.
Sea Kayaking in Antarctica
Sea kayaking provides a quiet approach to exploring the wilderness, navigating through icebergs and shorelines.
Snowshoeing, mountaineering, extended hikes, and polar plunges are also available on Antarctic expeditions.
Choosing the Right Antarctic Itinerary
No two expeditions are identical. Your voyage will be unique, shaped by weather and sea ice conditions, resulting in opportunities to access otherwise inaccessible landscapes.
You’ll see countless glaciers, mountains, and penguins, but each voyage has its unique victories and discoveries. Every voyage has its own story.
The Allure of Antarctica: Why Visit?
Since ancient times, explorers have been drawn to the idea of a southern landmass. Captain James Cook explored the Southern Ocean, encountering icebergs that suggested a cold, inaccessible land.
In the 1820s, explorers like Bellingshausen, Palmer, and Bransfield reached the Antarctic Peninsula region. Explorers such as Shackleton, Scott, Amundsen, and Mawson braved icy seas to explore the continent.
Today, travelers seek to connect with nature and disconnect from their daily lives. Visiting Antarctica offers a transformative experience. There is nothing like seeing landscapes few have witnessed, hearing glaciers rumble, or sharing a beach with penguins. These experiences create lasting memories.
Antarctica Awaits: You Can Go
Despite being the most remote continent, Antarctica is within reach. With various embarkation ports, durations, and itineraries, Antarctica offers a unique and accessible adventure. Its beauty is accessible, waiting for you to explore.
