When is the best time to visit Antarctica from South America?

Antarctica tours from South America operate during the austral summer from November to March. During this window visitors can expect the most favorable conditions with milder temperatures and extended daylight. The peak months of December and January bring temperatures hovering around 32-35°F (0-2°C) and nearly continuous daylight. Late February through March draws whale watchers to the Antarctic Peninsula while November offers pristine snowscapes and active penguin colonies starting their breeding cycle. A TourRadar traveler from a Hurtigruten expedition shared: "We had such fantastic weather during our trip in January which made wildlife viewing incredible."

How rough is the Drake Passage crossing and should I be concerned about seasickness?

The notorious Drake Passage between South America and Antarctica presents two faces: the peaceful "Drake Lake" or the turbulent "Drake Shake" with swells reaching 15-20 feet. The crossing takes about 2 days each way. Vessels like MS Sea Spirit and Ocean Endeavour come equipped with stabilizers to reduce motion. Seasickness medication and medical support are readily available onboard as noted by a TourRadar traveler: "The ship crew and doctors were wonderful and helpful during the Drake Passage crossing providing seasickness medication and support when needed." Consulting with your doctor before departure is recommended particularly for those prone to motion sickness.

How much does an Antarctica tour from South America typically cost?

Expect to invest between USD 10750 and USD 42940 for an Antarctica expedition with daily rates ranging from USD 977 to 3303. Entry-level trips on ships like the Ocean Endeavour start at USD 11000 for 11-day journeys while high-end experiences aboard vessels like Scenic Eclipse can reach USD 40000. These rates typically cover lodging meals guided excursions and transfers. According to a TourRadar traveler: "While expensive the experience was worth every penny given the incredible wildlife encounters expert guides and comfort level onboard."

What are the accommodation options on Antarctica cruises from South America?

Ships crossing to Antarctica offer varied accommodation levels to suit different preferences. The MS Roald Amundsen features luxury suites with private balconies while the Ocean Endeavour provides options from triple-share rooms to owner's suites. Common amenities include observation decks panoramic lounges and wellness centers. Some itineraries include pre-cruise stays at properties like the Arakur Ushuaia Resort & Spa. A TourRadar traveler on Poseidon Expeditions noted: "The accommodations were excellent - my suite was spacious with great views and the ship's facilities including the sauna and gym were top-notch."

What medical facilities are available during Antarctica cruises?

Expedition ships maintain onboard medical clinics staffed by qualified doctors equipped for basic emergency care. The Ocean Endeavour and similar vessels provide essential medical services though serious conditions require evacuation to South America. A TourRadar traveler from Poseidon Expeditions noted: "The onboard doctor was professional and readily available throughout the journey providing peace of mind in such a remote location." All travelers must secure comprehensive travel insurance with emergency evacuation coverage typically minimum USD 200000.

How long are typical Antarctica tours from South America?

Tours range from 11 to 24 days depending on the itinerary. Standard Antarctic Peninsula expeditions like Intrepid Wildlife Explorer run 11 days while extended journeys including the Falklands and South Georgia such as Hurtigruten's Antarctica and Falklands Expedition span 23 days. A TourRadar traveler reflected: "Our 14-day journey felt perfect - enough time to explore different Antarctic locations while also allowing for weather contingencies around the Drake Passage crossing." Routes beyond the Peninsula naturally extend trip duration.

Antarctica Cruises/Tours from South America

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Polar
The Highlights of Antarctica
Destinations
Argentina Falkland Islands Chile Antarctica
Age Range
up to 100 year olds
Ship
MV Hondius
Regions
Antarctica / South PoleFalkland IslandsSouth Georgia Island+2 more
Operated in
English, German
Operator
Inventia
Duration
23 days
From
NZ$37,480
$11,313 now + easy payments of $2,200
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12 easy payments$2,200
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Explorer
Ultimate Journey: Patagonia, Argentina, Brazil & Antarctica - Cruise & Land Journey 2026|2027
Destinations
Chile Argentina Brazil
Age Range
up to 99 year olds
Ship
Scenic Eclipse
Operated in
English
Operator
Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours
7% Off
Duration
29 days
From $73,100
NZ$68,100
$1,000 now + easy payments of $7,456
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No fees, no interest, no credit checks. For departure 06 Feb 2026
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9 easy payments$7,456
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Explorer
Ultimate Antarctica & the Fjords of Southern Chile
Destinations
Argentina Chile Uruguay
Age Range
up to 99 year olds
Ship
Scenic Eclipse
Operated in
English
Operator
Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours
18% Off
Duration
29 days
From $63,600
NZ$52,100
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Polar
Crossing 66º South Latitude
5.0 (1 traveler review)
"The best adventure ever."
Nataly, traveled in January
Destinations
Ushuaia, King George Island, Deception Island,Antarctic Peninsula+1 more
Age Range
up to 100 year olds
Ship
M/V Sea Spirit
Country Region
Antarctica / South Pole
Operated in
English
Operator
Poseidon Expeditions
10% Off
Duration
15 days
From $25,193
NZ$22,674
$6,192 now + easy payments of $2,752
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9 easy payments$2,752
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Explorer
Best of Antarctica: Whale Discovery
Destinations
Ushuaia
Age Range
12 to 99 year olds
Ship
Ocean Endeavour
Regions
PatagoniaAntarctica / South PoleAndes MountainsTierra del Fuego National Park+3 more
Operated in
English
Operator
Intrepid Travel
15% Off
Duration
12 days
From $17,540
NZ$14,909
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Ocean Cruise
Christmas in Antarctica
Destinations
Ushuaia, Antarctic Peninsula, King George Island
Age Range
up to 100 year olds
Ship
M/V Sea Spirit
Country Region
Antarctica / South Pole
Operated in
English
Operator
Poseidon Expeditions
10% Off
Duration
12 days
From $19,428
NZ$17,486
$3,424 now + easy payments of $2,283
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6 easy payments$2,283
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Polar
Polar Circle Quest - 12 days
Destinations
Ushuaia, King George Island, Antarctic Peninsula
Age Range
10 to 80 year olds
Ship
MV Ushuaia
Country Region
Antarctica / South Pole
Operated in
English
Operator
On The Go Tours
10% Off
Duration
12 days
From
NZ$17,945
$600 now + easy payments of $1,445
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12 easy payments$1,445
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Explorer
Treasures of Argentina & Brazil with Antarctica - Cruise & Land Journey
Destinations
Argentina Chile Brazil
Age Range
up to 99 year olds
Ship
Scenic Eclipse
Islands
Falkland IslandsSouth Georgia Island+1 more
Operated in
English
Operator
Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours
16% Off
Duration
32 days
From $69,705
NZ$58,705
$1,000 now + easy payments of $5,246
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Explorer
Ultimate Journey: Patagonia, Argentina, Brazil & Antarctica - Cruise & Land Journey 2028
Destinations
Chile Argentina Brazil
Age Range
12 to 99 year olds
Ship
Scenic Eclipse
Operated in
English
Operator
Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours
9% Off
Duration
29 days
From $78,970
NZ$71,970
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Polar
Crossing the Circle via Buenos Aires, Operated by Quark
5.0 (2 traveler reviews)
"we loved our crossing the circle via Buenos Aires trip, we had greattest expenerices in Antarctica."
Shauna, traveled in January
Destinations
Buenos Aires, Ushuaia, King George Island,Antarctic Peninsula,Hornos Island+2 more
Age Range
18 to 99 year olds
Operated in
English
Operator
Exodus Adventure Travels
19% Off
Duration
14 days
From $37,169
NZ$30,180
$7,545 now + easy payments of $2,515
Payment plans
No fees, no interest, no credit checks. For departure 28 Feb 2026
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9 easy payments$2,515
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Polar
Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctica: Explorers and Kings, Operated by Quark
4.4 (19 traveler reviews)
"South Georgia should be a must for anyone who enjoys photographing wildlife, so the time to get there is well worthwhile."
Derek, traveled in January
Destinations
Argentina Falkland Islands England Chile
Age Range
18 to 99 year olds
Regions
Antarctica / South PoleFalkland IslandsSouth Georgia Island+2 more
Operated in
English
Operator
Exodus Adventure Travels
15% Off
Duration
20 days
From $58,949
NZ$50,105
$12,526 now + easy payments of $18,789
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Polar
King Penguins of the Falklands and South Georgia - Expedition
Destinations
Uruguay Falkland Islands Chile Argentina
Age Range
16 to 99 year olds
Ship
MS Expedition
Regions
Antarctica / South PoleFalkland IslandsSouth Georgia Island+2 more
Operated in
English
Operator
Explore!
15% Off
Duration
22 days
From
NZ$25,850
$2,585 now + easy payments of $7,755
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3 easy payments$7,755
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Polar
Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctica
5.0 (1 traveler review)
"Superb staff at every level. The itinerary was always subject to the weather but there was always a plan 'b' or even 'c'."
JackWalton, traveled in October
Destinations
Uruguay Falkland Islands England Argentina
Age Range
10 to 99 year olds
Ship
G Expedition
Regions
Antarctica / South PoleFalkland IslandsSouth Georgia Island+2 more
Operated in
English
Operator
G Adventures
40% Off
Duration
22 days
From $26,199
NZ$15,719
$3,144 now + easy payments of $2,515
Payment plans
No fees, no interest, no credit checks. For departure 22 Oct 2025
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Polar
Spirit of Shackleton
5.0 (1 traveler review)
"The zodiac tours were amazing, the crew aboard the Expedition were first class, and the accommodations were very comfortable and well maintained."
Collette, traveled in January
Destinations
Argentina Falkland Islands Chile
Age Range
up to 90 year olds
Ship
G Expedition
Regions
Antarctica / South PoleFalkland IslandsSouth Georgia Island+2 more
Operated in
English
Operator
G Adventures
15% Off
Duration
21 days
From $36,799
NZ$31,279
$6,256 now + easy payments of $2,275
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No fees, no interest, no credit checks. For departure 11 Jan 2026
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Polar
Falklands, South Georgia and Antarctica: Explorers and Kings
Destinations
Argentina Chile Antarctica
Age Range
8 to 99 year olds
Regions
Antarctica / South PoleFalkland IslandsSouth Georgia Island+2 more
Operated in
English
Operator
Intrepid Travel
15% Off
Duration
20 days
From $57,595
NZ$48,956
$400 now + easy payments of $8,093
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No fees, no interest, no credit checks. For departure 13 Nov 2025
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6 easy payments$8,093
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No fees, no interest, no credit checks. For departure 13 Nov 2025
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6 easy payments$8,093
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