Antarctica Hiking and Adventure Tour and Travel Packages, Best Trekking Trip

Antarctica Tour Overview

Antarctica is the earth’s southernmost continent. It is a vast polar desert covered by a massive ice sheet up to 3 miles ( 4.8 km) thick. It is also the least populated mainly because of its climate. It has a rich history of exploration. Its landscape varies from the ice-free dry valleys to the volcanic Mount Erebus and the Transantarctic Mountains. Today, it hosts an international community of scientists at research stations, while strict environmental protocols protect its unique ecosystems. All this is sure to make your Antarctica trip a true adventure! 

• Antarctica Visitor’s Insight: 

  • Continent: Antarctica

  • Time-Zone: Antarctica doesn't follow a single time zone due to its unique geographical position in the South Pole

  • Language: No official language since it isn't a country and has no permanent population. The most commonly spoken languages are English, Spanish, and Russian. 

• Currencies Accepted in Antarctica

Since Antarctica is not a country, it has no legal tender. Whatever the currency of the home country for each research base is the currency used. 

Major Attractions in Antarctica

Drakes Passage

The 498-mile (800 km) stretch of water between Cape Horn and Antarctica is one of the world's roughest sea crossings. Despite that, it offers incredible opportunities to spot diverse marine life, including several whale species, albatrosses, and petrels. Most Antarctic expeditions begin with this two-day crossing, making it an important destination in any Antarctica itinerary. 

Mount Vinson

Antarctica's highest peak at 16,050 feet (4,892 mt), Mount Vinson is a part of the Ellsworth Mountains. Despite extreme conditions and limited accessibility, it attracts mountaineers from across the globe. Clear air and low precipitation make it a prime climbing destination during the Antarctic summer. 

South Shetland Islands

This archipelago of ice-free islands is a gateway to Antarctica. It lies 74.5 miles (120 km) north of the Antarctic Peninsula. Home to multiple research stations and diverse wildlife, including elephant seals and gentoo penguins. Popular stops include Deception Island's volcanic caldera and King George Island's international scientific community.

Antarctic Sound

Nicknamed "Iceberg Alley," this channel at the Antarctic Peninsula's northeastern tip is famous for its massive tabular icebergs. The sound is a habitat for Adelie penguins and leopard seals. It is named after Otto Nordenskjöld's expedition vessel Antarctic, which was crushed by ice here in 1903. It is one of the most popular destinations in Antarctica travel packages. 

Gerlache Strait

A rather scenic waterway between the Palmer Archipelago and the Antarctic Peninsula, the Gerlache Strait offers spectacular mountain and glacier views. The protected waters houses rare marine life, including humpback whales and crabeater seals. Several research stations and historic sites line its shores, making it a crucial route for expedition cruises.

Penola Strait

The Penola Strait is a narrow channel between the mainland and Booth Island. It’s known for its scenery and calm waters. The strait provides excellent opportunities for zodiac cruising among ice floes and spotting marine mammals. Protected waters make it a reliable passage for ships exploring the southern Peninsula region.

South Georgia Island

Often called the "Galapagos of the South," this sub-Antarctic island hosts some of the world's largest king penguin colonies, with over 100,000 breeding pairs at St. Andrews Bay alone. The island's landscapes combine glaciated peaks with green tussock grass slopes. Historic sites include Ernest Shackleton's grave at Grytviken whaling station, making it a haven for polar enthusiasts.

The South Pole

The geographic South Pole is marked by a ceremonial striped pole. It is one of Earth's most exclusive tourist destinations. Accessible only by specialized aircraft from late November to January, visitors can tour the Amundsen-Scott Research Station, standing at 90 degrees south, and experience 24-hour daylight at this symbolic point where all lines of longitude meet.

Ross Ice Shelf

The world's largest ice shelf, with ice cliffs rising 164 feet (50 mt) above sea level. This massive floating ice sheet covers an area roughly the size of France. It has served as the gateway for many early Antarctic expeditions, including those of Scott and Shackleton. The shelf's face presents a stunning spectacle of Antarctica's raw power and scale.

Best Time to Visit Antarctica

The best time to visit Antarctica is from November to March given that temperatures begin to rise and the ice melts, making the continent accessible, especially through cruise ships. 

• Summer (December-February): Peak cruise season. Temperatures range from 23°F to 41°F (-5°C to 5°C) along the coast; 24 hours of daylight. Most stable weather conditions with minimal sea ice. You can enjoy wildlife viewing (penguins with chicks, whales, and seals), zodiac landings and excursions, hiking and snowshoeing, photography expeditions, kayaking, camping, South Pole visits, and mountain climbing expeditions. 

• Autumn (March-May): Temperatures range from 5°F to 23°F (-15°C to -5°C); daylight hours decrease rapidly; storms and wind increase; sea ice begins to form. Last tourist vessels depart early in March, limited late-season cruises (early March only). March is the shoulder season with the best price deals. You can still enjoy sunsets and sky phenomena, wildlife viewing (whale migrations, penguin colonies departing), and photography. Most tourist operations end by mid-March. 

• Winter (June-August): Temperatures range from -22°F to -76°F (-30°C to -60°C); 24 hours of darkness; extreme storms possible; maximum sea ice extent; possible aurora Australis viewing. No tourist activities. The continent becomes a territory of research stations only. Scientific expeditions take place. No commercial access. 

• Spring (September-November): November is the shoulder season with the best price deals. Tourist season begins in late October/early November. Early season cruises start. Temperatures range from 5°F to 23°F (-15°C to -5°C); increasing daylight hours; highly variable weather; sea ice breaks up. You can enjoy wildlife viewing (penguin courtship, seal pups), snow photography, ice climbing, and cross-country skiing (possibly). Mountain climbing expeditions also begin. 

Essential Advice and Tips for Antarctica Tour

• Appropriate Gear: Bring warm, waterproof, and layerable clothing designed for polar conditions. Invest in high-quality base layers, outerwear, boots, and accessories. 

• Travel Insurance: Standard travel insurance is not enough. Ensure your policy covers medical evacuation, trip cancellation, and other risks specific to Antarctica.

• Fitness Level: Many Antarctica activities require good physical fitness. Consult with your expedition provider about prerequisites and training.

• Guidelines: Learn about the Antarctic Treaty System's environmental protection protocols and visitor guidelines to minimize your impact.

• Vaccinations: Consult your doctor to ensure you have all recommended vaccinations, including for influenza. 

Antarctica Tour Cost

A 7-day budget Antarctica trip cost can be around $6,000 to $8,000 while a mid-range trip can start at $10,000 per person. If we’re looking at a luxury Antarctica trip, it can start at $15,000. AdventureTripr offers several affordable Antarctica tour packages to suit your budget and preference. 

Antarctica Accommodation

• Expedition Cruise Ships: These cruises offer a range of cabins, from basic bunk-style rooms to luxurious suites with private balconies. They’re well-equipped and include meals, lounges, and access to Antarctic landings.

• Research Station Dormitories: These are basic dormitory-style accommodations at research stations operated by various national programs. These utilitarian facilities offer simple living quarters and shared amenities.

• Camping on the Ice: Some Antarctic expeditions include the option to camp overnight on the continent, providing an immersive experience under the midnight sun or aurora-lit skies. Campers stay in durable polar tents and prepare meals together.

Unlike most other continents and countries, Antarctica doesn’t offer a lot of accommodation options. Nevertheless, the price of your Antarctica travel package changes according to the accommodation you choose. 

Frequently Asked Questions:

Question 1: What’s the tipping culture like in Antarctica?

Answer 1: Generally modest compared to other travel destinations. Most expedition operators include gratuities as part of the overall trip cost, so additional tipping is not expected. However, some expedition staff, such as tour guides, naturalists, and expedition leaders, may appreciate a small tip at the end of the voyage, typically around $10-$15 per passenger per staff member. This is entirely optional and at the discretion of each traveler.

Question 2: Is the Internet available in Antarctica?

Answer 2: Internet connectivity in Antarctica is very limited and can be unreliable due to the continent's remote, isolated location and harsh environmental conditions.