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
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
11 Days
From
6230
Capture the essence of the Antarctic Peninsula and its incredible islands aboard the...
14 Days
From
10075
Take an adventure of a lifetime to the Antarctic and beyond. Cross the Antarctic Circle...
21 Days
From
20760
Embark on a 21-day Intrepid expedition including the Antarctic Peninsula, South Georgia...
21 Days
From
13647
Explore South Georgia, the Antarctic Peninsula and the Falkland Islands with Intrepid...
12 Days
From
6230
Take to Antarctica on an 12-day expedition on board the Ocean Endeavour via Puntas...
11 Days
From
14700
Sail through the Drake Passage to the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula,...
8 Days
From
23300
Visit Antarctica, flying over the Drake Passage and cruising through the South Shetland...
Tailor-Made trips
Take two or more on an exclusive trip and tailor your itinerary
14 Days
From
17600
Uncover the sublime white beauty of Antarctica on this Southern Expedition. Travel...
11 Days
From
26800
Embark on an adventure of a lifetime while crossing the Antarctic Circle. Discover...
23 Days
From
76400
Embark on a cruise across the Antarctic Circle and visit the Falklands, South Shetland...
11 Days
From
12100
Sail through the Drake Passage to the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula,...
14 Days
From
8110
Experience the rare opportunity to explore both the eastern and western sides of the...
14 Days
From
10075
Join Intrepid and special guests from the World Wildlife Fund-Australia’s whale...
11 Days
From
7879
Join Intrepid and special guests from the World Wildlife Fund – Australia’s whale...
11 Days
From
8393
Follow the whales of Antarctica as they migrate south on this 11-day expedition cruise,...
14 Days
From
15200
Uncover the sublime white beauty of Antarctica on this Southern Expedition. Travel...
13 Days
From
14300
Experience the rare opportunity to explore Cape Horn and the Diego Ramirez Islands on...
15 Days
From
11600
Experience the rare opportunity to explore Cape Horn, Diego Ramirez Islands, and three...
