How to Get to Antarctica

Going to Antarctica isn't your typical travel experience – it's an expedition into one of Earth's last true wildernesses. While this remarkable continent might seem unreachable, there are several ways to explore its pristine landscapes and abundant wildlife. 

As more people seek meaningful, low-impact ways to experience Antarctica's untouched beauty, small-ship expeditions have become an increasingly popular choice for conscious travellers.

How to travel to Antarctica

The journey to Antarctica requires careful planning and consideration. You'll need to choose between two main approaches – travelling by ship or by air. Each option offers its own distinct advantages and considerations for your Antarctic adventure.

Fly cruise

Flying to Antarctica with Secret Atlas's fly-cruise option is the smartest way to maximize your time on the white continent. We charter flights from Puerto Natales in Chile directly to King George Island, where your expedition vessel awaits – transforming what would be days at sea into hours in the air.

Why choose fly-cruise:

More time exploring – Whilst traditional voyages spend four days crossing the Drake Passage (two days each way), you're already photographing icebergs and watching penguin colonies.

Perfect for limited schedules – If you can't spare the extra sailing days but refuse to miss Antarctica, this is your answer. You get the full expedition experience without the extended time commitment.

Patagonia connection – Departing from Puerto Natales means you can easily combine your Antarctic adventure with Torres del Paine National Park, experiencing two of the world's most spectacular wildernesses in one journey.

Just 44 guests – Whether you fly or sail, you'll explore with our signature small group size, ensuring genuine encounters without crowds.

By ship

Joining an Expedition Micro Cruise is one of the most rewarding ways to visit Antarctica. Secret Atlas specialises in small-group expeditions with just 36 guests, offering an intimate experience that minimises environmental impact while maximising your connection with Antarctica's stunning environment.

For many travellers, reaching Antarctica by ship is more than a mode of transportation – it’s a rite of passage into one of the last untouched wildernesses on Earth. The journey begins at the southern tip of South America, where ships depart from the charming town of Ushuaia, often referred to as the 'End of the World'. As the vessel sets sail into the open waters of the Southern Ocean, excitement builds for what lies ahead.

Crossing the Drake Passage: Nature's gateway

To reach Antarctica, you must cross the legendary Drake Passage, a 600-mile-wide stretch of ocean between Cape Horn and the Antarctic Peninsula. 

This passage is a meeting point of the Atlantic, Pacific, and Southern Oceans, creating conditions that can range from serene to thrillingly tempestuous. Known for its unpredictable waves and winds, the Drake Passage tests the mettle of even seasoned adventurers, earning it a reputation as a baptism by sea.

As the ship rolls and pitches, the true spirit of exploration awakens. This is the same route taken by intrepid explorers like Sir Ernest Shackleton, who braved these waters in search of the unknown. For modern travellers, crossing the Drake is a chance to connect with that same sense of wonder and resilience.

Wildlife encounters at sea

The Drake Passage isn’t just a challenge; it’s an experience filled with awe. Along the way, you’ll likely spot albatrosses gliding effortlessly in the wind and perhaps even pods of whales surfacing near the ship. Seabirds often accompany the vessel, adding a sense of life and companionship to the voyage. These moments of connection with nature are unforgettable and hint at the extraordinary wildlife awaiting you

How long does it take to get to Antarctica?

How long it takes you to get there depends on where you depart from, the method of travel, and other factors. Let’s take a look at the primary routes you can choose: 

Travelling to Antarctica from Chile

At Secret Atlas, we primarily operate our Antarctic expeditions through Chile, with flights departing from either Puerto Natales or Punta Arenas – two distinct gateways to your Antarctic journey.

Puerto Natales is our preferred departure point for travellers seeking an authentic Patagonian experience. This quieter, more intimate town sits right at the doorstep of Torres del Paine National Park, making it perfect for those who want to combine Antarctica with Patagonia's granite spires and turquoise lakes. The town retains its frontier character – corrugated houses, wood smoke in the air, and genuine gaucho culture – giving your expedition a sense of adventure from the very start.

Punta Arenas, whilst larger and more developed, offers another reliable departure option with additional amenities and connections.

From either gateway, the flight to King George Island takes about two hours, though we always plan with flexibility in mind as Antarctic weather can affect scheduling. Our guests board the aircraft knowing they're trading days at sea for hours in the air – time that translates into more moments exploring Antarctica's remarkable coastline.

Once you land, you'll meet your expedition team and fellow travellers before boarding our intimate 42-guest vessel, ready to begin your Antarctic exploration

Travelling to Antarctica from Argentina

Ushuaia, Argentina – the world's southernmost city – is another popular departure point for Antarctic expeditions. From here, our small expedition vessel crosses the Drake Passage, a journey that typically takes about two days. 

This traditional sailing route follows in the wake of historic polar explorers, adding an extra layer of adventure to your expedition. Our experienced crew navigates these waters with expertise, ensuring your comfort and safety while maximising wildlife viewing opportunities during the crossing.

We also offer a Fly and Sail option from Ushuaia, where you can fly one way and sail the other – experiencing the Drake Passage without committing to the full four-day round trip. It's the best of both worlds for those who want that legendary crossing without using all their time getting there and back.

Travelling to Antarctica from South Africa

Leaving from Cape Town, South Africa is less common but possible. These journeys usually involve flights to research stations and are primarily used for scientific expeditions or specialised adventure travel to the continent's interior.

Travelling to Antarctica from New Zealand

The route from New Zealand accesses a different part of Antarctica – the Ross Sea region. This journey will take a lot longer than other routes, with the sea crossing lasting about 10 days. However, it offers unique opportunities to visit historic sites and experience the Antarctic in a way that not many people can. 

Planning your trip to Antarctica

Planning an Antarctic expedition requires thoughtful preparation. Here's what you'll need to consider:

• Timing your visit: The Antarctic travel season runs from November to March, with each month offering different wildlife and weather experiences

• Physical preparation: While you don't need to be an athlete, basic fitness helps you make the most of shore excursions

• Gear and clothing: Proper equipment is essential – your expedition provider will supply a detailed packing list

• Documentation: You'll need a valid passport and any required visas for countries you'll transit through

• Travel insurance: Comprehensive coverage specific to Antarctic travel is essential

Visit Antarctica with Secret Atlas

Travelling to Antarctica might seem overwhelming at first, but Secret Atlas makes the journey straightforward and meaningful. 

Our Expedition Micro Cruises offer an intimate, low-impact way to experience the incredible wonder of Antarctica. With expert guides, small group sizes, and carefully planned itineraries, you'll explore this remarkable continent in a way that's both responsible and deeply rewarding.

Ready to start planning your Antarctic expedition? Contact Secret Atlas today to learn more about our small ship expeditions. Our team of experienced guides will help you choose the perfect voyage to match your interests and preferences.