Destination Guide: Antarctica

What you need to know before booking

Destination Guide: Antarctica

04 February, 2026


Wild Earth Travel is the expert in Antarctic travel and that is not something that we say lightly as our expertise is the result of many years actively organising and leading expeditions to this enchanting region.


General Manager, Aaron Russ, has spent over two decades leading and organising voyages to the most remote corners of the globe, and having experienced first-hand the benefits of Antarctic expedition travel, he became convinced that it was perfectly suited to adventurous travellers. By working in partnership with a hand-picked collection of ships around the world, we have built a portfolio of unique, memorable experiences and a reputation for impartial advice and product knowledge that is second to none.


Our team have genuinely ‘been there, done that’ and can’t wait to share their experiences and suggestions with you. We will tell you the best time of year to travel, places to see wildlife and equally importantly, we will ensure that you are aboard the best ship for you. We have access to over 50 expedition ships from small and bespoke to larger, more luxurious vessels, which still offer the expedition experience.



Where to Visit 


Antarctic Peninsula


See huge tabular icebergs, Gentoo, Adélie or Chinstrap Penguins, whales and marine life. Optional extras such as kayaking, snorkelling, snowshoeing and camping are available on some departures for more adventurous clients. 


South Georgia & the Falkland Islands


Accessible from South America, our travellers never regret including these islands. See over 100,000 king penguins on a single South Georgian beach, Elephant Seal colonies, and follow in Shackleton’s footsteps. Spend time exploring the Falklands with its intriguing history and incredible wildlife colonies. 


Ross Sea Region 


Limited month-long departures visit the Ross Sea from New Zealand (January and February only) and feature visits to the Subantarctic Islands, as well as the Scott and Shackleton huts.


FAQs


Price Guide: US$6K to $50K. Expedition to luxury.


When to Travel: October-March. Within this period,



  • Oct-Nov is best to view courting penguins, snow cover and pristine landscapes;

  • Dec-Jan penguin eggs hatch, humpbacks return and Ross Sea expeditions depart;

  • Feb-Mar best for whale watching in the Peninsula, photography, Antarctic Circle crossings, last Ross Sea expedition sails


Duration: 5 to 30 days. The 5-day itineraries involve flights from Punta Arenas, Chile to Antarctica. The average Antarctic Peninsula cruise is 11 days. To include South Georgia and the Falklands or to travel further south, choose a 19 day+ voyage. Ross Sea voyages are around 30 days from New Zealand. For semi circle navigation from NZ to Ushuaia or visa versa, allow 28 days.


When to Book: As early as possible, some voyages are full 9 to 12 months in advance. 


Pre-/Post- Cruise Options:



  • Explore South America. Buenos Aires, is a popular choice and dubbed the Paris of the South

  • Visit the Galápagos Islands or the Amazon

  • Combine an Antarctic itinerary with a Patagonian land or cruise package


Other handy tips?



  • Boots (to borrow) and jackets (to keep) may be included

  • Stranger share options available on most ships to save on the single supplement


Links:



Our Associates Include

Adventure Canada
Heritage
Hutigruten
Lindblad
Pandaw
Ponant
Uncruise
Variety
Poseidon Expeditions
Havila
Royal Galapagos
Polar Quest
Oceanwide
Silverseas