While ‘visit Antarctica’ may be high on many travel wish lists, not everyone is aware of how many incredible things to do in Antarctica there are. Beyond seeing majestic icebergs and waddling penguins, of course. There’s so much more to the White Continent, including a raft of thrilling activities to immerse you in everything that makes a trip here so special.
To help raise awareness (and excitement), we’ve compiled a complete list of what to do in Antarctica. Use this handy guide to see what’s on offer and what aligns with your favorite hobbies and activities. We’ll even plant a seed or two about new activities you can try on your journey, perhaps ones that embolden – Polar Plunge, anyone?
Best Time to Visit Antarctica
While there are highlights on every sailing, understanding the best time to visit Antarctica allows you to match a trip to your interests, wildlife goals and expectations.
Aurora Expeditions sails to the White Continent from October to April. Ironically, it’s during these sun-drenched months that Antarctica’s melting sea ice invites a smoother passage.
Here’s a quick guide on the best time to visit Antarctica:
- October & November: best for pristine landscapes, abundant sea ice, ski/snowboard touring, camping on ice, snowshoeing and bonus adventure opportunities.
- December & January: best for stable weather, more landings, sea kayaking, snorkeling and a wealth of newborn babies and juveniles across the continent
- February & March: best for whale watching, epic sunrises and sunsets, scuba diving and colorful algae blooms
For a more in-depth guide, read our comprehensive Best Time to Visit Antarctica blog.
How to get to Antarctica
As world expedition leaders – we’ve been sailing to polar regions for more than 33 years – you may think your only option to reach the White Continent is by sailing. Not so! While crossing the infamous Drake Passage is considered an Antarctica rite of passage by some, it’s also possible to bypass it one way with our Fly/Sail itineraries. Antarctica can be as accessible as you want it to be (weather permitting, of course).
When considering how to get to Antarctica, there are two key start and end points: Argentina’s Ushuaia, and Chile’s Punta Arenas. Both are in the stunning Patagonia region, a destination known for its craggy snow-capped peaks and abundant wildlife.
If you’re traveling by ship, you’ll start and end your Antarctica expedition in Ushuaia. Designed for rugged, remote areas, our purpose-built ships increase your comfort and safety. A fact you’ll appreciate when crossing the Drake Passage.
If you’re flying one leg, you’ll fly from Punta Arenas to King George Island. There, our Zodiac boats will be on standby to whisk you aboard the Greg Mortimer or Sylvia Earle.
Learn more on how to get to Antarctica here, including how to reach Ushuaia and Punta Arenas. Discover Ushuaia-based itineraries here and Punta Arenas Fly/Sail itineraries here.
Things to do in Antarctica: Top Activities & Experiences
While we love our purpose-built expedition ships and designed them for your utmost comfort, what we love more is getting you off them and immersing you in Antarctica proper. We do that by offering a range of activities and experiences that connect you to this awe-inspiring continent.
Because it’s hard to choose a favorite Antarctica activity, use our handy infographic or A-Z guide below to choose activities that are the best fit for you.
Alpine Trekking & Climbing
Keen to feel like an intrepid explorer? Then you’ll love the invitation to join an alpine trekking and climbing excursion. Thanks to over a decade of climbing the world’s most remote peaks, our expert guides know the best routes to showcase what makes Antarctica alpine trekking so spectacular.
Did you know?
Growing up, our founder Greg Mortimer was quick to show an interest in rock and mountain-climbing, and despite breaking his pelvis at the age of 15, his love for the sport didn’t falter – instead, it grew to new heights.
On 3 October 1984, Greg and his expedition partner Tim Macartney-Snape became the first two Australians to reach the summit of Mt Everest, and even more impressively – they did so without the aid of supplementary oxygen. From there, Greg would go on to climb K2, Chongtar and Annapurna II – again, without supporting oxygen.
With countless snowclad peaks rising high across the skyline, there are ample routes to ascend. Some may only have ever experienced the footprints of Vantage Explorations’ expeditioners and Expedition Team, which we think is pretty cool! As you marvel atop an alpine pass, experience life in its most raw form. It’s just you, your new trekking mates and the expanse of one of the most pristine landscapes in the world.
Our alpine trekking and climbing trips can range from four to 10 hours with the aim of at least two peaks and/or a glacier pass. Alpine trekking is available for travelers with moderate fitness, some trekking experience and previous use of crampons and an ice axe.
Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing doesn’t require any experience, it’s an experience in itself. Join this activity and undergo a short training session before you and the group confidently head off through Antarctica’s slopes. Our expert guides will lead you to some of Antarctica’s best vantage points where you’ll be able to take in some of the best scenery on the planet.
Scuba Diving
Aurora Expeditions pioneered commercial Scuba diving in Antarctica after offering the first dive trip to the South Pole in 1998. Since then this activity has continued to thrive. It’s your unforgettable opportunity to be completely immersed in glaciers, icebergs and marine life. There really is nothing like it.
Our expert dive guides have over 20 years of experience down here and are able to have the experience of a lifetime. This activity requires participants to have a proven and extensive level of experience to be undertaken.
Camping in Antarctica
Leave the comfort of the ship for the night and take part in one of our most popular activities, camping on the ice. You have the chance to spend the night on the ice, camping in Antarctica! There is nothing quite like the southern sky at night. There is no camping experience required because we believe Antarctic camping is enjoyed without tents. All you need is a camping mat and thermal sleeping bag so you can take in the environment in the best way possible – uninterrupted.
Snorkelling
Ever wanted to see how big an iceberg really is below the surface? Snorkelling Antarctica will not be like any other snorkelling you’ve ever done. Floating in the crystal clear waters with our expert guides, you’ll be completely at one with the surroundings. You’ll be taken to shipwrecks, sheltered bays, off shore islands and witness wildlife all around you. All your gear is provided including drysuits, gloves, hoods, fins, masks and snorkels.
Guided Hikes
It’s time to get off the ship and stretch your legs. On our guided hikes we explore historic ruins, stroll pristine beaches, trek through lush wilderness areas, admire local flora and fauna and scale heights to take in spectacular vistas. There is so much to see and learn about human exploration in the Antarctic region.
