Traveler's Guide: Us To Antarctica

Antarctica is one of the most remote destinations in the world, but it is possible to travel there from the United States. Travellers can either fly or sail to the continent, with most trips departing from South America. The majority of cruises leave from the port of Ushuaia in Argentina, with some departing from Punta Arenas in Chile. It is also possible to fly from Punta Arenas to King George Island, where you can then board a ship. Travellers can also depart from Australia or New Zealand, although these trips are less frequent and more expensive.

How to get to Antarctica from the USA

Overview

Antarctica is one of the most remote continents on Earth, but it is possible to get there from the USA. In fact, in the 2016-2017 season, more than 45,000 people travelled to Antarctica from the United States.

By Plane

The quickest way to reach Antarctica is by plane. There are no commercial flights to Antarctica, but there are a few options for flying there:

• Fly-sail cruises: These depart from Punta Arenas in Chile and take around two hours to reach King George Island at the tip of the Antarctic Peninsula. From there, you board a cruise ship.
• Fly-cruise: This option involves flying to Antarctica and then sailing back, or vice versa.
• Fly-over: This is a single-day option where you fly over Antarctica without landing.
• Fly-in: This is a rare option where you fly directly to the interior of Antarctica.

By Boat

The majority of travellers to Antarctica go by boat. Most cruises depart from the port of Ushuaia in Argentina, with some starting in other ports in Argentina and Chile. Cruises from South America usually last between 10 and 24 days.

Getting to the Departure Points

To get to the departure points in South America, you will need to fly to Buenos Aires in Argentina or Santiago in Chile.

From Buenos Aires

To get to Buenos Aires from the USA, you can fly direct from New York, Dallas, Los Angeles, Atlanta, Houston, Chicago, Washington D.C., or Boston.

From Santiago

To get to Santiago, there are direct flights from Los Angeles, Dallas, Houston, Atlanta, Miami, and New York.

When to Go

The Antarctic travel season is from November to March, during the Antarctic summer. The best time for penguin spotting is late December or early January, and for whale watching, February or March.

What to pack for an Antarctica trip

Antarctica is one of the coldest, windiest, and driest places on Earth, so packing appropriately is essential. Here is a comprehensive packing list for your trip to Antarctica:

Clothing

• Base layers: Go for thin woollen long underwear, long-sleeved tops, and leggings. Wool is an excellent insulator, and its breathability will keep you comfortable. Bring a few sets of base layers.
• Mid-layers: Fleece is a versatile option for your mid-layer as it can be worn alone on warmer days or layered under a windbreaker on colder days.
• Outerwear: Ensure your outerwear is waterproof. A long jacket and insulated, waterproof pants are essential for keeping you dry and warm.
• Socks: Pack multiple pairs of socks in two varieties: thin, poly-blend liner socks and thick, woollen outer socks. This system will keep your feet warm and dry.
• Gloves: Bring two pairs of gloves: a polyester blend base layer and a waterproof top layer. If you need dexterity for tasks like changing camera lenses, consider underlayer gloves.
• Hat: A snug-fitting beanie is crucial to protect your head and ears from the extreme cold and wind. Pack at least two hats.
• Scarf/Neck Gaiter: A neck gaiter is preferable to a scarf, as scarves can unravel and get caught in your jacket.
• Footwear:
• Waterproof boots: Choose insulated, waterproof boots that are designed for snow and ice, like muck boots.
• Walking shoes: For indoor use or for exploring towns and hiking on the Falkland Islands, bring comfortable walking shoes with good traction.
• Indoor clothing: You'll also need casual clothing for indoor use on the ship, such as short and long-sleeved tops (some thermal, some not).

Accessories

• Sunglasses: Polarized sunglasses will protect your eyes from the glare of the sun on the snow. Bring an extra pair in case you lose or damage your primary pair.
• Water bottle: Bring an insulated winter water bottle to keep your water from freezing.
• Camera: You'll want to capture memories of your trip, so bring a good camera with extra lenses, batteries, and SD cards.
• Waterproof bag: Protect your camera and other devices with a waterproof bag, especially when riding in Zodiac boats or kayaks.
• Heavy-duty garbage bags: These are useful for separating wet or soiled clothing from the rest of your luggage.
• Ziplock bags: Use these for storing trash during shore excursions to avoid littering.
• Binoculars: Bring binoculars to spot wildlife and distant landmarks.
• Cash or credit cards: If you visit Port Lockroy, you can shop at the post office and gift shop, where proceeds go towards the upkeep of the station.
• Earplugs: Consider bringing earplugs if you're a light sleeper, as they can help block out snoring cabin mates or ship noises.

Health and Beauty

• Sunscreen: Don't forget to protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays, even in Antarctica.
• Lip balm: Choose a lip balm with SPF to protect your lips and keep them moisturized.
• Moisturizer: The cold, dry air can be harsh on your skin, so be sure to moisturize daily.

Entertainment

• Books or eReader: Bring something to read for entertainment during your trip.
• Smartphone: Load your phone with music and podcasts for entertainment.
• Noise-cancelling headphones: These can be helpful for blocking out noise during storms or when the ship breaks through ice.
• Notebook and pen: Consider bringing a notebook and pen to document your journey and reflect on your experiences.

Other Essentials

• Passport: You'll need your passport at every stop during your trip.
• Seasickness medication: If you're prone to motion sickness or want to be prepared for rough seas, bring seasickness medication.
• Regular medications: Ensure you have an adequate supply of any prescription medications you take regularly.
• Sanitary items: Bring any feminine hygiene products you may need.

How much does an Antarctica trip cost

The cost of a trip to Antarctica from the United States varies depending on several factors, including the type of cruise, itinerary, ship, cabin, departure point, and duration. Here is a breakdown of the costs to help you plan your trip:

Cruise Costs:

The cost of the cruise itself is usually the most significant expense. Prices for a classic Antarctica cruise typically start at USD 6,000 per person and can go up to USD 25,000 or more for luxury options. The average price is around USD 10,000. Some cruises offer early booking discounts of up to USD 1,500 per person, so booking in advance can save you money.

Flight Costs:

Most cruises depart from Ushuaia, Argentina, so you'll need to budget for flights to this region. From the US, flights to Ushuaia can range from USD 1,000 to USD 1,600. If you're flying from Europe, expect to pay between USD 1,500 and USD 2,000, and for travellers from Africa, prices are typically between USD 900 and USD 1,500.

Visa and Vaccination Costs:

While no visa is required for Antarctica, you will need a valid passport. There are no mandatory vaccinations, but it's recommended to consult with your doctor before departing, especially if you're travelling from a region where malaria is a concern.

Clothing and Equipment Costs:

Proper clothing and gear for Antarctica's extreme weather conditions are essential. Plan to bring four layers of clothing, including waterproof boots and thermal socks. Budget around USD 1,000 for these items, but you may spend less if you already own some suitable gear.

Insurance Costs:

Travel insurance is crucial for an Antarctica trip due to potential delays, cancellations, and the remote nature of the destination. A good policy should cover trip cancellation, emergency evacuation, and other standard travel issues. Expect to pay around USD 90 to USD 140 for insurance, but check the specific coverage details.

Miscellaneous Costs:

Don't forget to budget for staff gratuities, which are typically USD 15-20 per person per day, as well as any personal expenses like laundry, drinks, souvenirs, and other onboard purchases.

Total Estimated Costs:

Based on the above estimates, a trip to Antarctica from the United States can range from approximately USD 8,000 to USD 29,000 or more, depending on your choices and preferences. This includes the cruise, flights, clothing, insurance, and other expenses.

It's important to note that these are just estimates, and your actual costs may vary. Be sure to research and plan carefully to ensure you have a memorable and enjoyable experience within your budget.

Best time to visit Antarctica

The best time to visit Antarctica is during the southern hemisphere's summer months, from November to March. The short cruise season runs from late October to March, and deciding when to visit will depend on what you want to see and do.

October and November

October is when penguins return to the Antarctic Peninsula en masse, and you may even witness their courtship rituals. November is when most cruise lines kick off their season, and you can expect landing sites that are yet to be sullied by penguin excrement and other tourists. The days start to lengthen and penguin chicks start to hatch. November is a particularly good time for photographers because the sun is low in the sky, creating incredible sunrises and sunsets.

December and January

December marks the start of the Antarctic summer, with warmer weather and longer days. Humpback whales begin to arrive in Antarctica during December, and seal pups are common on the beaches of South Georgia. January is the peak season for Antarctica, with near 24-hour daylight and temperatures often exceeding 10 degrees Celsius on the Peninsula. Penguin chicks are at their fluffiest and cutest during this month.

February and March

February is the best time for whale watching in Antarctica, with species including humpback, sperm, minke, southern right and orca. It's also a great month for seeing curious fur seal pups. March is popular for photographers because the sun is low in the sky, creating wonderful colours. Penguin chicks are curious and have no fear of humans. Prices are also lower in March, but the weather is colder and less predictable.

How to book an Antarctica trip

Overview

Antarctica is one of the most remote destinations in the world and a trip of a lifetime for many travellers. It is the coldest, windiest, and driest place on Earth, presenting some unique challenges for visitors. However, it is also an increasingly popular destination, with tourism more than doubling between 2010 and 2020.

When to Go

The Antarctic travel season lasts from November to March, which are the continent's summer months. Even then, temperatures are often below freezing, especially in the interior. The best time for penguin spotting is late December or early January, while February or March is ideal for whale watching.

How to Get There

The two primary ways to get to Antarctica are by cruise ship or by plane.

By Ship

The most common and affordable way to get to Antarctica is by cruise ship, with over 90% of visitors travelling this way. Cruises typically depart from Ushuaia in Argentina, the closest port to Antarctica, and take about two days to make the crossing to the Antarctic Peninsula. Other cruises depart from Punta Arenas in Chile, flying over the Drake Passage to King George Island, where passengers board a ship.

By Plane

It is also possible to fly to Antarctica, although there are no commercial flights. Flights depart from Punta Arenas in Chile and take about two hours to reach King George Island. This option is ideal for travellers who are short on time or are anxious about sea sickness.

How to Book

When booking an Antarctica trip, it is recommended that you use a specialist tour operator. They will be able to help you with all the logistics, from permits to schedules and itineraries.

You should book your trip at least a year in advance, as the best ships fill up quickly. Choose a smaller ship, preferably with fewer than 200 passengers, as this will allow for more landing opportunities and daily excursions.

The cost of an Antarctica trip will depend on the length of the trip and the level of luxury. Expect to pay between $6,000 and $50,000.

What to Pack

When packing for your Antarctica trip, don't forget to bring knee-high waterproof boots, a tight-fitting beanie, and seasickness medication.

Frequently asked questions