When is the best time to visit Antarctica?

The optimal time to explore Antarctica is during the austral summer, from November to March. During these months, you can enjoy extended daylight hours and abundant wildlife sightings.

What should I pack for Antarctica?

Antarctica is the coldest, windiest continent on Earth, so choosing the right clothing is a must. Base layers should breathe and remain dry, while insulation layers should have some loft (wool or fleece is best) to retain heat. Outer layers should be waterproof, windproof and large enough to fit over your other layers. Visitors should also pack a hat, neck gaiter, gloves and socks, and consider glove and sock liners for those extra chilly days. Sunglasses and goggles are essential for UV protection and to reduce glare, while lip balm and sunscreen (SPF 50 or higher) will offer sun and wind protection.

Are expeditions physically challenging? Can you sign up for a less challenging excursion or exploration during the day?

Some activities are more physically challenging than others. For an adventurous activity, visitors can kayak among glaciers for an opportunity to hear the distinct crackling sound glacial ice makes as air bubbles trapped inside are released. For something more relaxed, visitors can take a Zodiac ride to shore to explore routes on land and observe local wildlife at a leisurely pace.

Are walking sticks or trekking poles permitted?

Yes. Hiking/walking sticks and trekking poles are permitted. Some travel companies, including Viking, supply trekking poles to any guests who would like to use them.

Can I explore on my own while in Antarctica?

Within the perimeter of the available landing area, guests are often allowed to roam freely. Some sites are very confined and require guidance to not inadvertently disturb dense concentrations of animal life or protected cultural heritage. In these instances, visitors should rely on the assistance from the crew.

Can I see wildlife easily from the ship? Can I expect to easily observe from the ship?

Yes. There is a wide variety of locations for wildlife viewing from cruise ships in Antarctica, so visitors may have an opportunity to see animals in their natural habitats.

On Antarctic itineraries, is it possible to set foot on the continent of Antarctica?

Yes, weather permitting. Visitors can set foot on a pristine snow-covered beach and keep their eyes peeled for penguins and other wildlife.

What is the average temperature in Antarctica?

Antarctica temperatures will vary. On the coldest days temperatures may be as low as 14°F/-10°C, while on the warmest days, they can reach the high 60s °F/15–20°C.

What wildlife can I expect to see in Antarctica?

No wildlife sightings can be guaranteed; however, visitors may see Adélie, gentoo and chinstrap penguins, leopard and elephant seals, humpback and minke whales, orcas and Arctic terns.

Embark on an unforgettable journey to Antarctica

Experience the unparalleled beauty and wonder of the “White Continent.” Read on to discover the unique characteristics of this icy landmass and learn about the competition among global explorers striving to be one of the first to reach the South Pole. Enhance your knowledge of the vibrant snow algae that thrive in Antarctica’s extreme conditions and get acquainted with the fascinating behaviors of the continent’s smallest and most common penguins—the Adélie.

Antarctica

The world's southernmost continent, Antarctica spans an impressive 5.5 million sq mi. (14.2 million sq km) and is covered by approximately 98% ice. This vast, icy landmass is home to the geographic South Pole, located about 300 mi. (480 km) south of the Ross Ice Shelf. The continent also boasts the world's largest ice sheet, the Antarctic Ice Sheet, which is nearly two miles thick and contains up to 80% of the earth's fresh water.

The spectacular colors of Antarctic ice

Observe the many colors of Antarctic snow algae (Chlamydomonas nivalis) and learn more about these incredible organisms on your cruise to the “White Continent.”

In the harsh, icy climate of Antarctica, only the hardiest plants can survive. Among them is the fascinating snow algae, a microscopic, single-celled organism that thrives in temperatures below 50°F (10°C). Found in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres, snow algae play a crucial role in coastal ecosystems, providing essential food for aquatic life.

Snow algae are also known for their striking colors, including red, orange, green and gray, each hue indicating different chloroplast pigments. These pigments protect the algae from UV radiation and help them photosynthesize. During the summer, these algae grow rapidly, forming vibrant algal blooms across Antarctica and nearby islands. These blooms darken the snow, reducing the amount of light reflected by the snow and causing the area to warm more quickly. Remarkably, large clumps of snow algae can even be seen from space.

Cuisine—Surf ‘n Turf in Ushuaia

Located at the southernmost tip of Argentina, Ushuaia is the gateway to the Antarctic Peninsula, as most ships to the “White Continent” depart from here. While in Ushuaia—known as the “End of the World”—you can sample a quality cut of world-famous Argentinian beef or traditional Patagonian lamb. As a major fishing port, Ushuaia also has access to exceptional seafood. A popular dish is southern king crab, also known as centolla, which is prized for its sweet, delicate flavor.
History—Race to the South Pole

The “race to the South Pole” was a fierce competition among explorers from around the world seeking to be among the first to discover Antarctica, as well as the South Pole. Before the 19th century, little was known about Antarctica—referred to as Terra Australis Incognita, or “unknown southern land.” English captain James Cook came within eighty miles of its coast during his 1772–1775 voyage. In 1819, Russian explorer Fabian von Bellingshausen became the first to spot the continent, discovering two islands within the Antarctic Circle.

In 1821, American explorer John Davis made the first landfall on Antarctic soil. The race to the South Pole culminated in 1911 when Norwegian explorer Roald Amundsen—leading his ship, the Fram—reached the pole on December 14. He set up base camp 60 miles closer to the pole than his rival, English explorer Robert Falcon Scott. Amundsen's successful expedition was documented in his 1912 book, The South Pole. He used funds from his Antarctic expedition to establish a successful shipping business and purchase a new ship, the Maud.
Nature—Adélie penguins

Antarctica is known for its extreme conditions and dramatic landscapes, but it also boasts an incredible array of diverse fauna. You could experience the wonder of Adélie penguins (Pygoscelis adeliae) in their natural habitat and learn more about these incredible creatures on your Antarctic adventure.

Adélie penguins are the smallest and most common penguins in Antarctica. Standing at 28–29 in (70–73 cm) tall and weighing 9–13 lbs (4–6 kg), these charming birds are easily recognizable by their black head and back, white chest and distinctive white eye-ring. Named after Adèle-Dorothée, the wife of explorer Jules Dumont-d'Urville, Adélie penguins were first observed in Terre Adélie (Adélie Land) and now inhabit many Antarctic islands.

During the winter, Adélie penguins thrive on the northern pack ice, and in the warmer months, they join breeding colonies. Males build stony nests to attract females, and chicks leave the colony at 7–9 weeks old to learn how to swim and hunt. They return to breed at 3–5 years old. With few natural predators, Adélie penguins can live up to 20 years.

Antarctica Highlights

Antarctica is one of the most otherworldly destinations on Earth, featuring raw, sculpted landscapes in stunning shades of blue and white. This pristine continent offers an unforgettable experience that is sure to transform visitors. The best time to visit is during the austral summer, starting in November. During this period, the cold, windy weather turns to 24-hour sunlight, and temperatures rise to a comfortable 32°F (0°C). As the ice melts, frozen seaways unlock, providing new opportunities for exploration.

Our Antarctica cruises offer an array of activities to maximize your time on the “White Continent,” and virtually all are included. You can explore by Special Operations Boat, kayak, submarine, Zodiac and more. Here are some highlights you may experience during your journey: