antarctica
Antarctica is a place like no other. One of the least-visited places on Earth, between October and April the Antarctic pack ice retreats to reveal the world's greatest wildlife spectacle.
Antarctica is the largest wilderness area on earth, a place that must be preserved in its present, virtually pristine state. Many governments and non-governmental organizations - and all the principal companies arranging tourist expeditions to the region – are working together to ensure that Antarctica’s spectacular scenery, unique wildlife and extraordinary wilderness values will be protected for future generations to enjoy.
the southernmost contient
One of the most common questions I get is "Wait... you can go to Antarctica?!" and secondly, "Okay, so.. how do you get there? Is it far away?"
Getting to Antarctica is actually quite simple. The easiest way is to fly to either Buenos Aires, Argentina or Punta Arenas, Chile. Both are large cities with international airports and regular service to the rest of the world. From there, you'll fly 3.5 hours to Ushuaia, Argentina, where your expedition will begin! Almost all visits to Antarctica take place on an Expedition Boat, similar to a small cruise. As to is Antarctica far away, the short answer is yes, yes it is!
yes, yes you can travel to antarctica!
- Visiting Historic Sites
- Bird Watching
- Sea Kayaking
- Scuba Diving
- Snorkeling
- Stand Up Paddle-boarding
- Polar Camping
- Snowshoeing
- Ski and Snowboarding
- Climbing and Alpine Trekking
- Shackleton'sCrossing (only
in South Georgia)
In small Zodiac boats, you will search for wildlife. You will land on remote beaches, where you might visit a penguin colony, walk up a ridge for panoramic views or hike to see remnants of bygone eras. The expedition team is by your side the whole time, enriching your experience with fascinating presentations and insights into remarkable places.
Different Activities Ashore include:
- Zodiac Cruises
- Wildlife Encounters
- Guided Hikes
- Polar Plunge into the Southern Ocean
- Photography
- Sea Kayaking
what do you do in antarctica?
- Visiting Historic Sites
- Bird Watching
- Sea Kayaking
- Scuba Diving
- Snorkeling
- Stand Up Paddleboarding
- Polar Camping
- Snowshoeing
- Ski and Snowboarding
- Climbing and Alpine Trekking
- Shackleton's Crossing (only in South Georgia)
The short Answer? October through March
November - December: Antarctica is covered in snow from the top of the mountains to the coast, making the landscapes look absolutely majestic. The penguins begin to arrive to build their nests, and you'll spot the largest icebergs. Animals you are likely to see are penguins, seals, shags and seabirds. You may even see whales, although they are still migrating down so chances are lower.
December through February: now is the time where the snow starts to melt, and you'll see rocky lands and shorelines. There will be 24 hours of daylight, and a high chance you'll see penguins chicks hatch. The icebergs start to melt and allow for [more] open waterways.
February through March: As the summer season comes to a close, the days are getting shorter. You'll likely see whales beginning to feed, seals and penguins about. You'll even see red snow, which is also known as snow algae.
when is the best time to go to antarctica?
First, you will fly from your airport of choice to either Buenos Aires, Argentina or Punta Arenas, Chile. Both are large cities with international airports. From there, you'll fly 3.5 hours to Ushuaia, Argentina, where your expedition will begin!
Voyages departing from Ushuaia, Argentina, access Antarctica by sea. They sail through the infamous Drake Passage, a 600-mile (1,000 kilometer) body of water that separates South America from the Antarctic Peninsula. Depending upon conditions, this crossing often takes a day and a half at sea, and is a prime opportunity to view iconic wildlife such as the great wandering albatross.
Alternatively, travelers preferring to skip the Drake Passage can fly out of Punta Arenas, Chile, directly to an airstrip on an island adjacent to the Antarctic Peninsula. From there, you'll board the expedition ship and be standing face to face with glaciers and penguins just a few hours after departing Punta Arenas.
How do i get there?
During the summer months (October through March) the temperature can range from -2°C (28°F) to 8°C (46°F).
Big storms are rare, but if one comes through the temperature could drop to -8°C (17°F).
How cold does it get in Antarctica?
Different Activities Onboard include:
- Ship Cruising
- Relaxing on the various decks
and observation lounges - Informative Lectures from expedition
specialists - Onboard 3 course dining, afternoon teas,
and a selection of alcoholic beverages
what is there to do on the ship?
- Wildlife watching (dolphins, whales, fish - you never know what you'll see!)
- Gym and Sauna
- Spa and Massages
- Enjoy outdoor jacuzzi's on the top deck
Shipboard clothing is informal and casual; jeans, sweaters, long sleeve shirt and closed-toe shoes are ideal while on the ship. However, be sure to keep your jacket close for unexpected sightings! Some people like to take a nice outfit or something a bit special for the Captain’s welcome and farewell drinks, but formal clothing is not necessary.
I recommend you take two pairs of gloves and extra socks!
Each passenger on Antarctic expeditions will receive a complimentary polar expedition jacket to wear during your expedition and take home after your trip.
what do i wear?
Frequently asked questions
the danielle purdy travel difference
Destination Expert
At Danielle Purdy Travel, we work with clients who are visiting destinations that we have personal experiences in, or have trusted, expert travel industry partners. Danielle herself just visited Antarctica in 2022, thus has extreme knowledge and on the ground experience for this unique destination. She also works with expedition partners to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Help with Every Single Detail
From our initial call to the moment you step onboard your expedition ship, Danielle will be there helping with every single detail - flights to and from Argentina, everything pertaining to your expedition, packing tips, additional on the ground experiences and answering every question that comes up along the way.
Once in a Lifetime Experience
Going to Antarctica is a huge bucket list, once in a lifetime experience. Let the help of Danielle Purdy Travel eliminate all the stress of planning and you enjoy all of the excitement pre, during and post expedition!