Everything you need to know before setting foot on the White Continent
No cities, no souvenir shops — just silence, light, and life in its purest form. Whales breach beside your ship, penguins parade past your boots, and glaciers groan as they shift under the endless daylight.
This guide was created to help you plan a once-in-a-lifetime expedition — responsibly, comfortably, and with a sense of wonder that will stay with you long after you return.
When to Go
Season Overview
|
Season |
Months |
Highlights |
Ideal For |
|
Early Season |
November–December |
Pristine snowpack, dramatic icebergs, penguin courtship and nesting |
Photographers & first-time visitors |
|
Mid Season |
December–January |
24-hour daylight, peak wildlife activity, mildest weather (~30°F / –1°C) |
Families, general travelers |
|
Late Season |
February–March |
Peak whale sightings, penguin chicks fledging, golden sunsets |
Wildlife enthusiasts & whale watchers |
Pro Tip:
Our 2027 group expedition with HX is scheduled for early March, when whale activity is at its peak and light conditions are spectacular for photography.
Getting There
Antarctica has no airports or permanent residents — every visitor arrives by expedition ship or fly-cruise.
- Ushuaia, Argentina is the most common embarkation point, often called “the end of the world.”
- From Ushuaia, ships cross the Drake Passage, a two-day journey that transitions you from civilization to the wild.
- Those short on time can take a fly-cruise from Punta Arenas, Chile, landing directly on King George Island.
Travel Tip:
Allow at least one overnight in your gateway city before embarkation — weather in southern Patagonia can be unpredictable.
Choosing the Right Ship
The size and style of your vessel determine how deeply you’ll explore.
|
Ship Type |
Passenger Count |
Landing Access |
Experience |
Comfort Level |
|
Large Cruise Ships |
300+ |
Limited or none |
Scenic cruising only |
High |
|
Expedition Ships (100–200) |
Frequent landings |
Zodiacs & shore walks |
True balance of comfort and adventure |
Premium |
|
Micro-Expeditions (<100) |
Max flexibility |
Off-the-beaten-path sites |
Deep immersion, tight-knit group |
Boutique |
Why It Matters:
IAATO rules limit 100 passengers ashore at once, so smaller ships mean more time on land and a richer experience.
What You’ll See
The wildlife of Antarctica is abundant, unafraid, and often comical.
- Penguins: Gentoo, Adelie, and Chinstrap colonies numbering in the thousands.
- Whales: Humpback and Minke whales feeding in the Southern Ocean.
- Seals: Leopard seals lounging on ice floes.
- Birdlife: Wandering albatross with 10-foot wingspans.
Sustainability & Stewardship
Every traveler to Antarctica is a guest of one of Earth’s most fragile ecosystems. The IAATO (International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators) guidelines, ensuring strict environmental standards. All visitors must follow all wildlife distance rules and practice “leave no trace” ethics on landings.
Packing Essentials
You don’t need to buy an entire new wardrobe for Antarctica — but you do need smart layers.
Essentials Generallu Provided by the Ship:- Parka
- Waterproof boots
- Life jacket
- Thermal base layers (wool or synthetic)
- Mid-layer fleece or down jacket
- Waterproof pants
- Waterproof gloves, beanie, neck gaiter
- Sunglasses (polarized, with UV protection)
- Camera or smartphone with spare batteries
Skip:
Formalwear, drones, and scented toiletries (they can negatively affect wildlife behavior).
About
Jonna Robertson, Founder & Advisor, Coolcation Adventures | Fora Travel
Specialist in “coolcations” — journeys to the world’s awe-inspiring cold and temperate regions where nature takes center stage.
I help curious travelers design meaningful adventures that combine comfort, authenticity, and a touch of the extraordinary.
Let's Connect:
Website: coolcationadventures.com
Instagram: @coolcationadventures
Email: jonna.robertson@foratravel.com