Highlights

South Georgia

Home to vast king penguin colonies, elephant seals, and dramatic mountain scenery. A paradise for wildlife photographers and history buffs.  

South Shetland Islands 

Volcanic islands teeming with seals, penguins, and seabirds. Visit Deception Island’s caldera and historic whaling stations. 

The Antarctic Peninsula

Cruise past towering icebergs and glaciers, with daily landings offering close encounters with wildlife and surreal polar landscapes. 

Falkland Islands

Discover windswept beaches, quaint settlements, and diverse birdlife including albatrosses and penguins. A cultural and ecological gem.

Small ship cruises

Travel aboard intimate expedition vessels that allow more time on the ice, flexible itineraries, and expert-led excursions.

Wildlife

Spot emperor, king, and gentoo penguins, seals, whales, and seabirds in their natural habitat. Antarctica is a living showcase of adaptation and resilience.

Useful information

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Communication

Antarctica does not have a unified dialling code; satellite phones are used. 

 

Official Travel advice visit:  

Travel to Antarctica and the Arctic | Smartraveller 

 
Emergency Services: Provided by expedition staff and vessels. 

Electricity

Please check with the expedition vessel you’re cruising on. 

Health

Antarctica is remote and medical facilities are limited to onboard expedition ship facilities. Travellers should be in good health and carry comprehensive travel insurance. Seasickness medication is recommended due to rough crossings like the Drake Passage. No vaccinations are required specifically for Antarctica. 

 

Antarctica is extremely cold and dry. Wear layers, and make sure your outer gear is waterproof. Wear face coverings, suncream and eye protection. Stay hydrated, even if you're cold.  

 

The Travel Doctor provides information about staying healthy in the Arctic and Antarctica 

 

Official Travel advice visit:  

Travel to Antarctica and the Arctic | Smartraveller 

How to Get There & Getting Around

Access to Antarctica is via cruise ships or air-cruise packages departing from Ushuaia (Argentina) and Punta Arenas (Chile). Most travellers cross the Drake Passage by ship, while air-cruise options fly to King George Island before boarding cruise vessels. Movement within Antarctica is by ship, Zodiac, or guided hikes. 

Money, Tipping & Shopping

There is no official currency in Antarctica; USD and EUR may be accepted on ships, but please check with your cruise operator. 

 

Tipping is customary for expedition staff and crew. You cruise operator can provide guidelines. 

 

Shopping is generally limited to your onboard gift shops. Popular items include patches, books, and polar gear. 

Visas

The Travel Corporation has partnered with the company Sherpa to provide travellers with the latest government and health restrictions. Simply enter the country you want to travel to for information on safety regulations, border closures, quarantine requirements, your travel visa and more using the Sherpa travel tool: Visa Advice 

 

No visa is required for Antarctica itself, but you must comply with entry requirements for the country you’re transiting through to Antarctica - most likely Argentina or Chile - so please check visa requirements for those countries.  

 
Official Travel advice visit:  

Travel to Antarctica and the Arctic | Smartraveller 

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