Antarctica is a continent unto itself and is not a part of any country. The Great White Continent is governed under a series of recognised guidelines and agreements called the Antarctic Treaty System. Twelve countries signed the Antarctic Treaty in 1959 and the agreement currently has 54 signatories.
Although Antarctica has never had an indigenous population, seven nations have claimed parts of the continent – New Zealand, Australia, France, Norway, the United Kingdom, Chile and Argentina. Some of these territories overlap. The United States, Russia and Brazil all have a permanent presence in Antarctica, but haven't currently claimed territory. Most of these ten countries have established scientific research centres, where around 4000 people work and live in Antarctica over summer, with numbers reducing to around 1000 in winter. The vast majority of the population are scientists; some are operational staff, like ships' crews and service workers.Â
What are the 12 countries in Antarctica?
- France (Adélie Land)
- United Kingdom (British Antarctic Territory)
- New Zealand (Ross Dependency)
- Norway (Peter I Island and Queen Maud Land)
- Australia (Australian Antarctic Territory)
- Chile (Chilean Antarctic Territory)
- Argentina (Argentine Antarctica)
- Belgium
- Japan
- South Africa
- USA
- Russia
So, how do you get to Antarctica?
Antarctica's closest access point is in South America. Ushuaia in Argentina is the major thoroughfare for Antarctic expeditions. From here, you can visit the Antarctic Peninsula as well as the sub-Antarctic islands such as South Georgia and the Falkland Islands.
Punta Arenas in Chile is another gateway for cruises to the Antarctic Peninsula. From there, travellers may take a flight to the South Shetland Islands to board their vessel – perfect for those looking to cruise in the Antarctic but avoid the Drake Passage.
Antarctica can be reached via Australia (Hobart) and the South Island of New Zealand, although this takes significantly longer than the journey from South America and the route offers less in terms of wildlife encounters and shore landings. Most, if not all, tourist expeditions to Antarctica depart from South America.
No visas are required to visit the Antarctic continent or its offshore islands. However, you will need to have your passport with you on the ship, as port authorities will inspect passports on departure and also again at the end of your voyage. As most tours depart from Argentina, the majority of travellers will need to follow that country's visa rules. If travelling to the Falkland Islands, different entrance and visa rules may apply. Please speak to your booking agent for more information on obtaining visas for the Antarctic region.
Click here to read more Antarctica FAQs
Our tours in Antarctica
14 Days
From
6702
Set sail for the trip of a lifetime – a 14-day journey on board the Ocean Endeavour,...
11 Days
From
4590
Follow the whales of Antarctica as they migrate south on this 11-day expedition cruise,...
11 Days
From
6834
Experience the magic of the Antarctic Peninsula and its islands aboard the Ocean...
14 Days
From
6180
Cross the Antarctic Circle with World Wildlife Fund Australia (WWF-Australia) whale...
14 Days
From
6780
Experience the rare opportunity to explore both the eastern and western sides of the...
21 Days
From
16430
Embark on a 21-day Intrepid expedition including the Antarctic Peninsula, South Georgia...
11 Days
From
4590
This is one Christmas you’ll never forget – journey to Antarctica on board the Ocean...
Tailor-Made trips
Take four or more on an exclusive trip and tailor your itinerary
11 Days
From
5840
Set off on an 11-day expedition on board the Ocean Endeavour, revealing the landscapes...
11 Days
From
6780
Join World Wildlife Fund Australia (WWF-Australia) scientists on an 11-day expedition...
21 Days
From
10863
Spot seals, whales and albatross aboard the Ocean Endeavour. Retrace the steps of...
23 Days
From
14832
This trip is an Antarctica expedition like no other. Try wildlife photography and see...
12 Days
From
5840
Witness Antarctic Peninsula whales on this epic journey at sea. Spot seals and penguins...
