Among the first questions prospective polar travelers consider “Can you visit Antarctica?” Yes, you can visit Antarctica, being mindful of any Antarctica travel restrictions. We’ll show you how.
The next question is “How to get to Antarctica?” The answer is not as difficult as it seems. The best way to get to Antarctica is via Antarctica cruises from Argentina, Australia and New Zealand or Antarctica flights from Chile.
IN THIS POST – How to Get to Antarctica:
Can You Go to Antarctica?
Get to Antarctica by Ship
Flights to Antarctica
Get to Antarctica From Your Home
Passport & Visa Requirements
The Best Way to Get to Antarctica
Hear It from Our Travelers Who Went
More Resources
Can You Go To Antarctica?
Yes, you can visit Antarctica. In fact, Antarctica has never been more accessible to travelers.
Do you need permission to go to Antarctica? Travelers do not need permission to go to Antarctica, but tourism operators must hold a valid permit. First, a bit of background on why it is legal to visit Antarctica.
Antarctica is not a country. The continent is protected by the Antarctic Treaty, which preserves it for peaceful and scientific use. The treaty and related agreements ensure that all human activity is carefully managed and planned, including environmentally sensitive tourism. As of 2024 the treaty has 57 signatory parties.
Tourism operators in Antarctica submit stringent permit applications annually. If their planned activities meet all criteria, they are authorized and granted a permit. Traveling with an authorized operator means your permit has been secured for you.
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Do you need a visa to visit Antarctica? Because no country owns Antarctica, a visa is not required to travel there.
How many tourists visit Antarctica each year? During the 2023-2024 season, more than 80,000 travelers visited Antarctica. Will you be next?
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See the full list of itinerary options on the White Continent.
How to Get to Antarctica
The two primary routes travelers use to get to Antarctica are cruising to Antarctica or flying to Antarctica. Below we present everything you need to know about each method.
Wondering why people want to visit Antarctica. View our top 10 reasons to visit Antarctica now.
Get to Antarctica by Ship
The most common and most affordable way to get to Antarctica is to book an Antarctica cruise. Over 90% of all visitors travel to Antarctica aboard a small ship. Learn more about the cost to go to Antarctica.
Specially outfitted operators run a fleet of purpose-built Antarctica expedition ships taking travelers to Antarctica. They take care of all the logistics from permits to schedules and itineraries. Shore landings and activities on the continent are an important part of the experience. See our tips on how to choose an Antarctic cruise.
Cruise to Antarctica From South America
The distance from the tip of South America to Antarctica is about 600 miles. The countries closest to Antarctica are Argentina and Chile. Most of the travel to Antarctica occurs from these countries in South America. Most cruises begin in Ushuaia, Argentina but some start in other port towns in Argentina and Chile.
Cruises to Antarctica range from 10-24 Days. Antarctica cruises from South America are popular because they access the most popular regions including the Antarctic Peninsula, South Georgia Island and the Falkland Islands.
Ushuaia to Antarctica Cruises
Ushuaia to Antarctica is the most popular cruise route. Ushuaia is 680 miles to Antarctica and the closest port making it the primary hub for cruises.
Ushuaia is the southernmost city in South America before Antarctica. It is in the Terra del Fuego province of Argentina and is generally recognized as the southernmost city in the world. Ushuaia is well worth a visit. We recommend travelers going to Antarctica arrive a day or two early.
Ushuaia Antarctica cruises offer the largest variety of itinerary and ship options. The shortest and most affordable Ushuaia cruises visit the Antarctic Peninsula. Some cruises from Ushuaia strive to reach farther south the Antarctic circle. More comprehensive Antarctica cruises from Ushuaia include South Georgia and the Falkland Islands.
During the height of the season the port of Ushuaia can host 3-5 Antarctica expedition ships each day. Overall, there may be more than three dozen ships visiting Antarctica from Ushuaia each season. Don’t worry the ships coordinate schedules so ports and landing sites do not become overcrowded. This diverse fleet offers travelers the widest choice of ships, cabins and availability.
Other Argentina to Antarctica Cruises
While most cruises begin in Ushuaia there are other routes from Argentina to Antarctica. Each year a handful of Argentina Antarctica cruises embark from Port Stanley in the Falkland Islands. To reach Port Stanley travelers must fly from mainland Argentina, usually Buenos Aires.
Chile to Antarctica Cruises
Chile is known for its cruises with flights to Antarctica. But there are some cruises from Chile to Antarctica each year. Chile Antarctica cruises typically embark in the southern Patagonia city of Punta Arenas.
A Chile to Antarctic voyage will travel through the Chilean Fjords passing by Cape Horn before venturing into the Drake Passage. If you choose a Chilean Antarctic trip it is also possible to combine it with travel to Patagonia or a Chile vacation.
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Cruises From Australia and New Zealand to Antarctica
Each year a handful of specialty cruises voyage from New Zealand and Australia to Antarctica. These are true expeditions and take longer than cruises from South America. Just crossing from New Zealand or Australia to Antarctica can take five days or more. The highlight of an Antarctica cruise from Australia or New Zealand is a visit to the Ross Sea.
The most common embarkation ports for journeys from New Zealand to Antarctica are Invercargill and Dunedin. Cruises from Australia to Antarctica typically depart from Hobart, Tasmania.
Some Antarctica cruises depart from Australia, visit the White Continent, and then return to the same port. Others begin in South America and end in Australia, or reverse. Either way, these cruises are much longer than cruises from South America. Antarctic cruises from Australia and New Zealand range from 24-34 days.
Voyages will visit sub-Antarctic islands such as Macquarie Island, the Auckland Islands or Campbell Islands. These remote outposts are rich in birdlife and wildlife. They serve to break up the longer ocean crossing.
How to Get to Antarctica by Boat FAQ’s
The Antarctic Peninsula lies just over 680 miles (1100 kilometers) from Ushuaia, Argentina in South America.
The Antarctic Circle is about 800 miles (1,300 kilometers) from Ushuaia, Argentina in South America.
The voyage from Ushuaia to Antarctic takes about 48 hours by small ship. Antarctic Peninsula cruises will make this crossing each way. So, a typical 11-day cruise will include 4 days crossing at sea and 7 days exploring the Antarctic Peninsula.
Most Antarctica cruises are 10-13 days. Some cruises are 14-20 days. The longest Antarctica cruise is 36 days long.
Most cruises to Antarctica leave from Ushuaia, Argentina. Cruises also leave from Punta Arenas-Chile, Port Stanley-Argentina, Hobart-Australia, Dunedin -New Zealand.
The Antarctic continent is about 1650 miles (2655 kilometers) from Australia. The Ross Sea is about 2200 miles (3,500 kilometers) from Australia.
The crossing from Australia to Antarctica can take up to 7 days depending on weather.
The Antarctic continent is about 1500 miles (2415 kilometers) from New Zealand. The Ross Sea is about 1800 miles (2900 kilometers) from New Zealand.
The crossing from New Zealand to Antarctica can take up to 5 days depending on weather.
The closest country to cruise to Antarctica is Argentina.
You cannot see Antarctica from South America. Don’t laugh, people ask.
Flights to Antarctica
Flying to Antarctica from Chile avoids crossing the infamous Drake Passage and makes the overall trip shorter. Antarctica air cruises are the second most popular way to get to Antarctica.
Flights to Antarctica are a great option for travelers short on time or concerned about seasickness. A flight to Antarctica takes about two hours, saving two days of cruising. Since most cruises make the crossing twice, flying can shave four days off the overall travel time. Cruises with flights to Antarctica range from 7-17 days long.
When considering cruises with flights to Antarctica, there are not as many options of ships and itineraries. The season for Antarctica flights is shorter, beginning in December and ending in February. There are not as many flight departures as standard cruises from South America.
Many trips with flights depart and return to the same location. Others will fly one way to or from the Antarctica Peninsula and cruise the other direction. Our experts are here to discuss the details of flights to Antarctica and help you choose the best Antarctic flight.
There are no commercial flights to Antarctica. Antarctica air cruise itineraries utilize one-way or round-trip flights from Punta Arenas, Chile, to the Antarctica Peninsula where guests board a ship. Flights to Antarctica utilize the airstrip at the King George Island Antarctica airport. This landing site is associated with Chile’s Frei Station.
Fly to Antarctica from Chile
Punta Arenas, Chile, is the primary departure point for cruises with Antarctic flights. These trips fly over the Drake passage, landing on King George Island near the Antarctic Peninsula. Travelers then embark the ship in Antarctica.
Most trips will explore the Antarctic Peninsula, then fly back to Chile. Some venture further to Antarctic Circle, South Georgia Island and the Falkland Islands. Some trips fly one way from Chile then cruise back or reverse.
How to Fly to Antarctica FAQ’s
Yes, you can fly to Antarctica, but only in conjunction with an organized tour or cruise. There are no commercial flights to Antarctica.
There are no commercial airports in Antarctica. Flights to Antarctica utilize landing strips associated with scientific research stations.
The only way to fly to Antarctica is part of an organized tour or cruise. Flights with cruises depart from Chile.
The flight to Antarctica from Punta Arenas, Chile is about 2 hours.
Travelers get around in Antarctica by small expedition ship. Travelers also get around via zodiacs, kayaks, skiing, snowshoeing, hiking and trekking.
The closest country to fly to Antarctica from is Chile.
No it is not possible to see Antarctica from Chile.
FLYING TO ANTARCTICA
Learn more about
Antarctica fly cruises.
How to get to Antarctica from Your Home
Most cruises depart from Ushuaia, Argentina. Fly-and-cruise trips depart from Punta Arenas, Chile. There are no direct international flights into these ports, so most travelers must route flights through Buenos Aires, Argentina, or Santiago, Chile.
Below is our advice on how to get to Antarctica from your home, using these air travel hubs. Our specialists can assist with your flights to Antarctica.
Get to Antarctica From Your Home:
Get to Antarctica From the U.S.A.
Get to Antarctica From Canada
Get to Antarctica From Australia
Get to Antarctica From New Zealand
Get to Antarctica From the U.K. & Europe
How to Get to Antarctica From the United States
- To Buenos Aires: To get to Antarctica on a cruise departing from Argentina, travelers need to fly from the USA to Buenos Aires. The most popular Antarctica flights from U.S.A. to Buenos Aires depart from New York, Dallas, Los Angeles, Atlanta, Houston, Chicago, Washington D.C. and Boston. From Buenos Aires fly to Ushuaia to board your ship.
- To Santiago: To fly to Antarctica from the USA, travelers first need to fly to Santiago, Chile. The most popular flight routes from the U.S.A. to Santiago, Chile, depart from Los Angeles, Dallas, Houston, Atlanta, Miami and New York. From Santiago fly to Punta Arenas to board your flight to Antarctica.
How to Get to Antarctica From Canada
There are direct flights from Toronto to both Buenos Aires and Santiago, five days each week. From other regions in Canada, travelers may consider connecting through a gateway in the U.S.A.
How to Get to Antarctica From Australia
- To Hobart: To get to Antarctica on a cruise departing from Australia you will need to travel to Hobart, Tasmania. Popular flight routes to Hobart depart from Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide.
- To Buenos Aires: To get to Antarctica from Australia on a cruise departing from Argentina, travelers need to fly to Buenos Aires. Unfortunately, there are no direct flights from Australia to Buenos Aires. Travelers going to Antarctica from Australia must consider connecting to Buenos Aires through Auckland, New Zealand, or through Santiago, Chile. From Buenos Aires fly to Ushuaia to board your ship.
- To Santiago: To fly to Antarctica from Australia travelers will first need to fly to Santiago, Chile. Flights from Sydney, Australia, to Santiago, Chile, operate four days each week. From Santiago fly to Punta Arenas to catch your flight to Antarctica.
How To Get to Antarctica From New Zealand
Most travelers from New Zealand will fly to South America to get to Antarctica from there. If you are on a specialty New Zealand cruise to Antarctica there are numerous options, depending on your departure port. See details below to get to Antarctica from New Zealand.
- To Invercargill or Dunedin: To get to Antarctica on a cruise departing from New Zealand you will need to travel to either Invercargill or Dunedin. Travelers on New Zealand’s South Island may drive to their embarkation port. There are flights to Invercargill and Dunedin from Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch.
- To Buenos Aires: To get to Antarctica from New Zealand on a cruise departing from Argentina travelers need to fly to Buenos Aires. There are four direct flights each week from Auckland, New Zealand, to Buenos Aires, Argentina. From Buenos Aires fly to Ushuaia to board your ship.
- To Santiago: To fly to Antarctica from New Zealand, travelers will first fly to Santiago, Chile. Flights from Auckland, New Zealand, to Santiago, Chile, operate four days each week. From Santiago fly to Punta Arenas to catch your flight to Antarctica.
How To Get to Antarctica From the U.K. & Europe
- To Buenos Aires: To get to Antarctica from the U.K. and Europe most travelers will first fly to Buenos Aires, Argentina. There are numerous flights from Europe to Buenos Aires each day. Popular routes depart from London, Amsterdam, Paris, Frankfurt, Zurich, Madrid, Barcelona and Rome. From Buenos Aires fly to Ushuaia to board your ship.
- To Santiago: To fly to Antarctica from the U.K. and Europe travelers will first fly to Santiago, Chile. There are numerous flights from Europe to Santiago each day. Popular routes depart from London, Amsterdam, Paris, Frankfurt, Madrid and Barcelona. From Santiago fly to Punta Arenas to catch your flight to Antarctica.
How to Get to Antarctica From Argentina
To get to Antarctica from Argentina, travelers will first fly to Buenos Aires. Buenos Aires, Argentina has two airports. International travelers will arrive at Ezeiza International Airport (EZE). Then connect from Buenos Aires to Uhsuaia. Flights to and from Ushuaia (USH) operate out of the Jorge Newbery Airpark domestic airport (AEP). So a transfer between airports in Buenos Aires is required.
We recommend the airport shuttle service, Manuel Tienda Leon. Find their colorful booths in the airport to book a transfer for about $30 USD. Shuttles depart every 30 minutes from the EZE arrival terminal. A taxi can be arranged and may be quicker but more expensive.
The opposite transfer is required on the return trip. We advise travelers to allow at least four hours between flights for this transfer and check in. Many travelers will consider a stopover in Buenos Aires as part of their Antarctica travel package.
How to Get to Antarctica from Chile
To get to Antarctica from Chile, travelers will first fly to Santiago. International travelers will arrive at Arturo Merino Benitez International Airport, also known as Santiago International Airport (SCL). Then connect from Santiago to Punta Arenas. Flights to and from Punta Arenas also depart from this airport making connections easy. Many travelers will consider a stopover in Santiago as part of their Antarctica plans.
Antarctica Passport & Visa Requirements
A visa or passport is not required to visit Antarctica. However, the country you pass through to get to Antarctica, such as Argentina, Chile, Australia or New Zealand will require a passport and may require a visa depending on your country of origin. Visas are not required in these countries for U.S. citizens. Your passport should be valid for 6 months after your travel dates, depending on your country of residency.
Countries that have signed the Antarctica Treaty including the U.S.A., Canada, E.U., New Zealand and Australia require that visitors from those countries need permission to visit Antarctica. This is typically provided through the tour operator.
Argentina Visas – click here to learn if a visa is required to enter Argentina from your country.
Chile Visas – click here to find your Chilean consulate. Contact your consulate to learn if a visa is required if a visa is required to enter Chile from your country.
In the United States, visa services can answer detailed questions and expedite applications for visas to Argentina and Chile.
What is the Best Way to Get to Antarctica?
The best way to get to Antarctica is by small ship cruise across the Drake Passage, or by plane to meet your ship in Antarctica. There are no right or wrong ways to get to Antarctica. Your choice will depend on your personal preferences, schedule and budget. Regardless of how you get to Antarctica, it will be the trip of a lifetime.
Continue your research on how to travel to Antarctica using the links below, or sign up for the AdventureSmith newsletter to stay in the loop on Antarctica travel news and deals. Our experts are here to teach you how to visit Antarctica and to help you get there.
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MORE ANTARCTICA RESOURCES:
Antarctica Travel Guide
Antarctica Cruises
Luxury Antarctica Cruises
Falkland Islands & South Georgia Cruises
Cruises with Flights to Antarctica
Best Time to Visit Antarctica
Antarctica Cruise Cost
Things to Do in Antarctica
Places in Antarctica
Antarctica Ships
Best Antarctica Cruise Lines
Antarctica Cruise Deals
Antarctica Cruise Reviews
Comments will be moderated and will appear after they have been approved.
How much cost for the trip from India to Antarctica for one person?
Hi Ramesh,
From ship selection to cabin considerations, trip duration and departure date, there are many factors that can affect the cost of an Antarctica cruise. Start with our helpful article How Much Does it Cost to go to Antarctica, (note the section on solo travelers). Our experts are your best resource and can ultimately help you determine how much you’ll need for this bucket list destination plus offer money-saving tips in the process. We will be in touch shortly.
I want to visit in Feb or March 2024. Please give me a price for 2 pax.
Hi Smarajit,
You’ve come to the right place. An Antarctica expert will be in contact with you shortly to discuss all your Antarctica cruise options.
i want to package of antartica via cruise or by air with couple
Hi Pradeep, We can certainly help! An Antarctica Specialist will be in touch direct shortly. In the meantime you can review more information about Cruises with Flights to Antarctica and Antarctica cruises in general.