How To Get To Antarctica From South America

Our complete guide about how to get to Antarctica from South America, including the best cruise and fly options for travellers!

Antarctica is a land like no other, so it’s no surprise that many dream of visiting this remote continent. But getting to Antarctica does not come cheap.

Nevertheless, it will be worth it, since you will be rewarded with incredibly breathtaking landscapes and some of the most fascinating wildlife on Earth!

The good news is that visiting Antarctica is no longer as complicated as many years ago. There are several exciting ways to get to this region, with South America being one of the most popular starting points.

In this guide, we’ll share some tips on how to get to Antarctica, ensuring you’ll make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Planning Your Trip to Antarctica from South America

Why Visit Antarctica?

You won’t find any other place on Earth to rival the otherworldly landscapes of the Antarctic Peninsula.

This is why many dream of embarking on an Antarctic cruise despite the remote location and the logistics involved in planning a trip here. There’s something utterly unique about this frozen continent, which lures adventure-seekers worldwide.

The thrilling adventures are the highlight of your visit. Unlike the usual beach getaways or city escapes, here in Antarctica, you’ll spend your days exploring vast snowy landscapes on a hike or kayaking through icy waters, surrounded by giant glaciers.

Wildlife is another reason many are keen to go to Antarctica. It’s home to fascinating species, with penguins being the most popular. These adorable creatures aren’t even afraid of humans! They have not encountered predators on the continent, so they won’t mind your presence, allowing you to get close to these quirky birds.

Read more: The Best Time To Visit Antarctica

Best Time to Go to Antarctica

Knowing the best time to visit is the first step to making the most of your Antarctica cruise.

Ideally, the southern hemisphere’s summer is the best time to visit. It’s from November to March. Many Antarctica cruises depart from South America during this time of the year. The weather conditions are great and days are longer, allowing you to enjoy your Antarctica cruise to the fullest!

Another benefit of visiting during the southern hemisphere summer is the temperature tends to be warmer. Therefore, you can make the most of your Antarctic adventure since you can spend plenty of time outdoors.

Besides the usual outdoor activities of hiking and kayaking, you can also enjoy wildlife encounters. Many species are more active during this time of the year, so expect to see marine mammals like blue whales playing in the water.

Travel Options to Antarctica from South America

Getting to Antarctica by Ship

The best way to get to Antarctica is by ship. Most Antarctic cruises depart from Ushuaia, Argentina, considered the world’s southern tip.

Some Antarctic peninsula cruises may begin in Buenos Aires but will stop in Ushuaia before continuing the journey to Antarctica. You can also cruise from Punta Arenas in Chile, but the options are limited.

Cruising From Argentina

When cruising from Buenos Aires in Argentina, spend a few days exploring the city before taking your cruise. Experience the local culture by visiting bustling neighborhoods and trying out delicious street foods.

You will take your cruise from the main port of Buenos Aires called Puerto de Buenos Aires. It is also known as Terminal de Cruceros Quinquela Martín. The port is centrally located, close to the city’s downtown area.

From Buenos Aires, your ship will sail towards the Patagonia region, past charming coastal towns, before stopping in Ushuaia. From here, your cruise will depart for Antarctica.

The journey typically takes 2 days, passing through the Drake Passage. Most cruises from Argentina last 8 to 12 days overall. That already includes the time to explore the Antarctic Peninsula.

Cruising From Chile

While you can cruise to Antarctica from Punta Arenas in Chile, the options are limited compared to those departing from Argentina. Punta Arenas is mainly for those who choose the fly cruise option to visit Antarctica (this is a combination of flying and cruising).

With this option, you will fly over the infamous Drake Passage and take a cruise ship from the South Shetland Islands to get to Antarctica. This is perfect for those who don’t want to spend longer in the rough ocean seas, especially along the Drake Passage, known for its huge rogue waves!

Fly cruise trips from Punta Arenas usually last 5 to 10 days. That already includes a few days of exploring the Antarctic Peninsula. Direct cruises from Punta Arenas to Antarctica are less common since most ships sail from Ushuaia in Argentina, as it is much closer to the Antarctic region.

Read more about crossing the Drake Passage to Antarctica!

Booking Antarctic Cruises

When booking Antarctic cruises, you get to choose from a few options. Those who want to splurge can take the luxurious cruise ships. These cruises have spacious and stylish suites and lavish amenities like spa and wellness, gourmet restaurants, and heated outdoor spaces.

Another option is to take a small expedition ship. These vessels carry fewer passengers than larger cruise ships. Due to its small size, it can access remote areas that larger ships cannot reach.

There are also budget-friendly Antarctic cruises if you want to save money. These usually have shorter itineraries, shared cabin options, and fewer amenities.

You’ll visit several places when cruising around the Antarctic Peninsula. Your journey begins with a two-day crossing of the Drake Passage. And as you approach the region, the South Shetland Islands often come into sight. It’s home to active volcanoes and research stations, surrounded by dramatic landscapes.

Read our guide to choosing the best Antarctica cruises!

The Ross Sea is another unique location you may visit on your cruise. Since it’s on the opposite side of Antarctica, close to the Ross Ice Shelf, the Ross Sea may only be included on those expeditions departing from New Zealand or Australia.

On some itineraries, you’ll also stop at the Falkland Islands. This is where you can see fascinating wildlife, including the famous King penguins, seals, and diverse bird species.

Some cruises will journey towards South Georgia Island, a remote island often called the “Serengeti of the Southern Ocean” due to its abundance of wildlife. You’ll also visit famous sites within the Antarctic Peninsula.

Getting to Antarctica by Air

It’s also possible to get to Antarctica from South America by air. If you prefer to fly to Antarctica, you will take a charter flight from Punta Arenas, Chile. The flight will land on the King George Island, part of the South Shetland Islands.

Upon landing on King George Island, you will immediately feel the remoteness of the place. But the highlight is seeing the wildlife that thrive here. Besides the famous penguins, you’ll see seals and different seabirds.

King George Island is a launch point for exploring nearby sites through a ship or zodiac. Depending on the itinerary, your journey will include visiting several sites along the Antarctic Peninsula, such as the Neko Harbor, Paradise Bay, and Lemaire Channel.

While Antarctica flights tend to cost more than cruising, this is faster and more convenient. Also, when you fly to Antarctica, you don’t have to deal with the rough sea conditions, especially since most Antarctica cruises will pass by the Drake Passage, which can be challenging for some.

With its unpredictable waves, passing through the Drake Passage can lead to potential seasickness. Antarctica flying excursions are smoother and more comfortable.

Read more: Are There Polar Bears in Antarctica?

Getting to South America from Your Home Country

The first step to getting to Antarctica is flying from your home country to the departure point for your cruise.

Flying to Argentina

If you’re taking one of those cruise ships from Argentina, you can take direct flights to the airport in Buenos Aires.

There are several direct flights from various airports in America and Europe. Cities like Miami, New York (JFK), and Houston have flights direct to Buenos Aires.

If you’re coming from Europe, you can take direct flights to Buenos Aires from Madrid, Paris, and Rome.

To start your Antarctic cruise from Ushuaia, you will fly from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia’s Malvinas Argentinas International Airport. Another alternative is to take a bus from Buenos Aires. However, it is much longer, taking around 40 to 48 hours.

Flying to Chile

The most recommended airport to land in Chile for your Antarctica expedition is Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport in Santiago.

Since it is a major hub, numerous international flights would land here. There are several direct flights to Santiago from North America and Europe.

If you come from the United States, you can fly from Miami, Dallas, New York, and many other major hubs. Those coming from Europe can fly from Paris, Madrid, or London.

When you reach Santiago, you will take a connecting flight to Punta Arenas, the main gateway for Antarctic expeditions. This is where most cruises and flights to the Antarctic Peninsula depart from. From Punta Arenas, you will board a cruise or take a flight to get to Antarctica, depending on your preferred mode of travel.

Preparing for Your Trip to Antarctica

Now that you know how to get to Antarctica, you’re probably eager to embark on your journey to the white continent. Here are some important things to know for your trip.

Visa and Passport Requirements

While you don’t need a visa to visit the Antarctic continent, you need a valid passport. Antarctica is governed by international treaty. Therefore it does not belong to any country and you won’t need to fulfill any immigration requirements to be allowed entry.

However, since you will be flying into South America, you may need a visa depending on your nationality and the country you will depart from to reach Antarctica.

For instance, if you will depart from Ushuaia, check if you need a visa to enter Argentina. If you do, you must apply for your visa several months before your trip. Also, double-check the expiration date of your passport. It should be valid for at least six months beyond your departure date.

Read more about travelling to Argentina!

Travel Insurance and Safety

Travel insurance is another essential thing to keep in mind. As you know, the white continent is very remote, and getting here involves some risks, so choose the insurance package with comprehensive coverage.

When choosing insurance, consider the challenges you could encounter when you travel to Antarctica. Choose policies that cover trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and emergency evacuation. That way, you are protected if bad weather conditions delay your trip and if you will need urgent medical care.

Important Note! Before you book any international trip, we honestly recommend getting travel insurance. You never know when things will go wrong, and medical bills can add up quickly if you get sick or injure yourself overseas.

Our personal recommendation based on our own experience is World Nomads.

Choosing the Tour Operator

You need to book through a tour operator to get to Antarctica. Independent travel to the continent is highly restricted because of the harsh environment, remoteness, and strict environmental regulations.

When choosing a tour, take some time to research the different types of tour operators available. That way, you can compare and choose what suits you best. Some options include luxury cruises, expedition cruises, and a fly cruise.

When cruising, consider the size of the ship, the type of accommodations, and the itinerary. Find out which places you will visit. It should cover popular destinations like the Falkland Islands, South Georgia, and other famous sites within the Antarctica peninsula.

For a more intimate experience, you may want to book a small expedition ship. It also allows closer landings and closer encounters with wildlife. Choose operators that are members of the International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators (IAATO). IAATO. These tour operators adhere to strict guidelines for environmental protection and safe tourism practices in the Antarctic region.

Budgeting and Cost Considerations

The cost is another essential consideration before embarking on your Antarctic journey. Given Antarctica’s remote location, a trip here does not come cheap. However, this once-in-a-lifetime experience is truly worth the investment!

A trip to Antarctica can range from $5,000 to $20,000 or more! The price varies depending on several factors. Besides the type of cruise and the trip duration, other factors that could affect the price are the type of accommodations and included activities. Flights to Antarctica can be more expensive than cruising. So, this is something to consider if you choose to charter flights.

Luxury cruises and longer expeditions can cost more. If you’re on a budget, opt for a basic cruise or shorter tours. Also, don’t forget to budget for additional expenses, such as flights to your departure point, travel insurance, and essential gear.

Looking for more fun activities? Read The Ultimate Guide to Camping in Antarctica

Tips to Make the Most of Your Adventure in the Antarctic Peninsula

Here are more tips to make the most of your Antarctica adventure:

Pack Smartly

Due to the extreme and unpredictable weather conditions, it’s crucial to pack cold-weather clothing and gear for Antarctica. The temperature can drop well below freezing.

So, pack waterproof jackets, insulated layers, pants, and sturdy boots. Don’t forget the accessories, too, such as gloves, hats, and scarves. Choose high-quality gloves that protect your extremities from frostbite and a hat that covers your ears.

Read more: What to Wear in Antarctica – Ultimate Travel Packing List

Prepare for the Rough Seas

If you will cruise to Antarctica, it’s important to be mentally and physically prepared for the rough seas, especially when you reach the Drake Passage.

If you’re prone to motion sickness, bring anti-nausea medications. Or better yet, consider the fly cruise option or flying directly to Antarctica.

Expect All-weather Conditions

The weather in Antarctica can change rapidly, which could affect your travel plans. The remote continent is known for its extreme weather conditions, with strong winds, sudden snowstorms, and temperature fluctuations that can occur while you’re there.

Therefore, it’s important to be flexible. Although you already have a set itinerary, this can change according to the weather. For instance, your visit to a penguin colony might be canceled due to strong winds. In such cases, the operator will offer alternative activities.

Follow Wildlife Rules

The wildlife is undeniably one of the highlights of your visit to Antarctica. However, be responsible during your excursions to protect the continent’s unique environment and the inhabitants.

Always adhere to the guidelines set by the International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators (IAATO). These include maintaining a safe distance from the animals, avoiding sudden movements, and refraining from touching or feeding them. Your guide will brief you on these guidelines before your tour begins.

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