Things to do in Antarctica - Activities and Excursions

Planning a trip to Antarctica, and wondering what is there to do when you get there? Will I get to see penguins, or set foot on the ice?

There are plenty of activities to enjoy in Antarctica, both on the water and on the snow and ice. But not every Antarctic expedition cruise offers every activity, so if there's something in particular that you would love to experience on your trip to the magical white continent, then talk to us and we can guide you to the right Antarctica cruise for you.

Zodiac cruising

Imagine sitting almost at water level, pushing through the sea ice, getting close to a leopard seal lounging, or circling around a stunning blue iceberg, or how about exploring close to the front of a magnificent glacier? Magical!

This is made possible in a zodiac exploration cruise. Zodiacs are small rubber boats, that have a shallow draft, they are very safe and dependable, so they can be used to explore just about anywhere! They can land on rocky beaches, or onto ice, so they are used to get you ashore in Antarctica as well for any land-based activities. Usually zodiacs fit about 8-12 passengers, plus a zodiac driver/guide to look after you, so don’t worry, you don’t need any experience at all! All small expedition ships to Antarctica come equipped with a fleet of zodiacs, and zodiac excursions will be included in the cost of your voyage.

Zodiac excursion in Antarctica

Shore landings

So, you have voyaged all the way to the continent of Antarctica, and amazing mountains of snow and ice are all around, now, you are going to want to get ashore. Your expedition ship will have shore landings included in the voyage, where were will be split into groups (for logistics) and taken ashore by zodiac. Here you will have time to wander and explore the shoreline, perhaps take a walk up a hill for spectacular views, sit and spend time in a penguin colony, capturing amazing photos or just watching their antics! Sometimes there will be the opportunity to visit a scientific research station, an historical site, or perhaps even call in and post a letter home from the post box at Port Lockroy!

Zodiac exploration and shore landings will be on offer each day you are in Antarctica. These are weather dependent of course, but with all the bays and inlets, your captain is likely to find a sheltered spot.

Shore landings in Antarctica

Set foot on the continent!

Dreaming of setting foot on your 7^th Continent? Your shore landings are likely to be on the continent itself…toast to this amazing occasion!

To have the best chance of experiencing this, ensure you choose a smaller vessel for your Antarctica cruise. Strict guidelines set out by the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) state that cruise ships carrying more than 500 passengers are not allowed to land their guests onshore, so a small expedition ship is the way to go for this activity.

I would also recommend selecting a voyage of 10 days or more to allow time for this. Most small ships will make landfall at least once each day once they arrive in Antarctica, although exact landing sites are weather dependent of course.

Cruising in Antarctica

Now let’s take a look at some optional extra activities on offer in Antarctica.

Camping in Antarctica

How about spending a night sleeping on the white continent itself? Many expeditions offer the chance to spend a night open air camping on the snow in Antarctica. Sleep in a bivouac bag, and watch the sky above, this enchanting night will be something you will always remember!

No prior experience is required, but as this is such a popular activity in Antarctica we recommend that you register for this one as early as possible.

Camping in Antarctica

 

Kayaking, paddling or stand up paddle boarding (SUPing)

For an extra adventure, and a real close to nature experience, try kayaking in Antarctica. Imagine paddling through the icy waters, with just the sounds of nature, or be amazed when a whale comes to surface nearby! 

Kayaking is another very popular activity for visitors to Antarctica, so if you're interested in giving it a go then talk to us about registering for this activity in advance of your trip. All gear will be provided; however, it is recommended that you have some kayaking experience before you travel. Or if you do not have any experience, some voyages offer paddling on larger inflatable kayaks for beginners and there is also SUPing if you are keen!

Kayaking in the Antarctica

 

Snowshoeing in Antarctica

Pop on a pair of snowshoes, and follow your expert guide for a few hours, and you will be able to walk a little easier on the snow and ice and get to explore Antarctica some more! Walking across wild terrain where few humans have ever set foot before, this traditional mode of polar transport will have you exploring in the spirit of early Antarctic explorers.

No prior experience is required, just a little fitness. It is also recommended to go earlier in the season if you would like to do this activity, when there is more snow.

Snowshoeing excursion in Antarctica

 

Do the Polar Plunge

You only live once! There is a crazy tradition in Antarctica, of ignoring the temperature and taking a dip amongst the snowy Antarctic peaks. It's an activity that is sure to take your breathe away!

Dare to take a plunge into the icy polar waters, and experience how invigorating this iconic swim truly is.

The iconic Antarctic polar plunge

 

Go Hiking

Some landing areas allow for longer walks. If you are keen to stretch your legs and get further afield, perhaps trace some of Shackleton’s steps on South Georgia?

Hiking in Antarctica

 

Join a Photography Workshop

Many expeditions to Antarctica will have an onboard photographer, however they are likely to be pretty busy. If you are really keen on getting the most out of your polar photography, look for photography workshops onboard, in small groups, to give you a more hands-on experience.

Photography in Antarctica

 

Go Snorkelling or Polar Diving

Experience Antarctica from another angle, and witness how the ice and light play below the Antarctic waters!

Diving in Antarctica

 

Go Mountaineering

Extra adventurous and want to get off the beaten track? Try mountaineering, using snowshoes, and when it gets more challenging, don on some crampons, and explore glaciated areas of Antarctica. Good fitness is required, and you will be in great hands with your guide.

Mountaineering in Antarctica

 

Science workshops

Join an Antarctica voyage that has scientists onboard, doing real world research, and sign up to lend a hand with their fascinating studies!

Heli flight seeing

You have walked on Antarctica, now get a stunning view like no other from the air! Perhaps an epic flight over Antarctica’s dry valleys on an Antarctica expedition from New Zealand to South America!

Heli Flight Seeing in Antarctica

 

These optional activities are only available on selected voyages and there are limited spaces, so please let your destination specialist know what you are interested in when you first enquire, so they can find the perfect voyage for you.

Ready to start planning? Check out our Antarctica voyages and start turning that dream trip into a reality!