Antarctica is a dream destination for many travelers, but it requires more than just booking a cruise. It needs thorough preparation to ensure an unforgettable journey. Here are some essential insider tips that will help your clients enhance their travel experience to the White Continent.
1. How to get to Antarctica?
To embark on an adventure of a lifetime to Antarctica, your journey will start with a flight to either Punta Arenas (Chile) or Ushuaia (Argentina) one day earlier. After settling in, in the afternoon, you will attend an exciting expedition briefing filled with expert recommendations to prepare you for the extraordinary trip ahead. Spend the night enjoying the charm of Punta Arenas or Ushuaia according to the itinerary, before the next day’s thrilling adventure to Antarctica, whether by a scenic flight or an unforgettable cruise.
2. When is the best time to visit Antarctica?
The Antarctica season runs from November to March, with each month offering something unique, according to your interests:
- November is ideal for admiring pristine ice landscapes and ice formations to capture great photos.
- December to February is perfect for nature and wildlife lovers as there are more opportunities to spot unique wildlife such as penguin chicks and seal pups.
- March is the prime time for whale-watching, especially humpback whales.
3. Plan a pre-tour or a post-tour in Argentina or Chile
Pre-tour: It is highly recommended to book a 4-day pre-tour, either in Buenos Aires, Argentina, or Santiago, Chile. This time allows travelers to be prepared for the trip, get into the local culture, and adapt to the region’s climate for a smooth transition before embarking on their expedition. Some highlights include:
- Explore Buenos Aires with a city tour, experience a tango show dinner, or a full day in the countryside with traditional asado lunch and Gaucho artistic performances.
- Discover Santiago through a city tour, including stops at Santa Lucia and San Cristobal hills.
Post-tour: Also, it is a good idea to complement your journey with a post-tour as a perfect way to wind down after the excitement of the Antarctica cruise. Some ideas are:
- Join a full-day city tour in the artistic streets of Valparaíso and enjoy a wine tasting in Casablanca Valley.
- Visit Ushuaia highlights such as a half-day tour in Tierra del Fuego National Park and take a journey in the End of the World Train.
4. What to pack for an Antarctica expedition?
You need to be prepared for all conditions and packing the right things is crucial for a comfortable trip. Check out this essential packing list for your Antarctica travel:
- Thermal underwear as the base layer
- Insulating layers (fleece jackets and pants)
- Waterproof jacket and pants to stay dry
- Warm waterproof gloves and headwear
- Waterproof muck boots (provided on the cruise)
- Sunglasses and sunscreen (UV rays are intense on the ice)
- Motion sickness medicines (especially for the Drake Passage).
5. Essential documents and travel insurance
Check your passport validity (at least 6 months from the date of return). Also, any visa requirements for the country of departure (Argentina or Chile), and vaccinations, especially in those itineraries that consider visits to other countries. Additionally, be sure to acquire special travel insurance covering medical evacuation and pandemic-related issues.
6. What to expect onboard an Antarctica cruise?
Navigating an Antarctica cruise is an otherworldly experience with seamless opportunities and discoveries while enjoying the best comfort and socializing with other travelers. Here we describe some of the facilities, amenities, and activities that you can enjoy onboard.
- Stay in comfortable cabins and relax in the wellness centers, equipped with saunas, and hot tubs.
- Special areas for engaging lectures about Antarctica’s wildlife, geology, and conservation.
- For a complete experience, join activities such as daily zodiac excursions, shore landings, wildlife watching, hiking, and kayaking. Photography workshops are also popular.
- There are plenty of dining options onboard with international cuisine and according to traveler’s dietary preferences. The meals are often buffet style for breakfast and lunch, while the dinner is à la carte menu with a couple of options of a 3-course meal.
7. Highlight spots and activities for your Antarctica travel
It is recommended to go around the South Shetland Islands, especially Deception Island, which features a unique volcanic landscape. For more adventurous travelers, kayaking and overnight camping on the continent offer unusual and unforgettable experiences. Also, visit South Georgia or the Falkland Islands, where you can see the majestic King Emperor penguins.
8. Prepare for your journey to the Drake Passage
It is well-known that navigating across the Drake Passage can be rough, and it is essential to prepare for it. We recommend keeping hydrated, eating small amounts of food, and carrying with you seasickness pills. Likewise, it is a good trick to watch the horizon to help you with the discomfort. Also, you can choose cruises that offer a flight option to bypass the Drake Passage, such as the Ocean Nova.
9. Connect with nature and sustainable practices during your journey
Every travel to Antarctica allows a true disconnection from the bustle and hassle of daily life, as this pristine destination is one of the few regions with untouched nature. Due to that, respect and environmental awareness are a must during your travel to minimize your impact on the White Continent, as you need to follow IAATO guidelines strictly.
Additionally, you can join eco-friendly practices during your expedition. For example, the Ocean Endeavour Cruise allows passengers to get involved in citizen science projects, such as wildlife surveys or climate monitoring, which contribute to vital research and enhance your Antarctica experience while traveling responsibly.
10. Stay flexible and embrace the unexpected
Finally, remind your clients that Antarctica is an unpredictable destination. There is limited connectivity. Weather changes and wildlife sightings can alter plans, because of that, being flexible and open-minded ensures you make the most of every moment.
Share these insider tips to help your clients decide the right itinerary and solve their doubts before their journey to Antarctica. For more information on how to tailor this incredible adventure for your clients, contact our team for personalized support. Let’s make their Antarctic dream come true together!
Published in October 2024
