- Posted:
Antarctica 101: 5 Things to Know About Visiting the Most Remote Continent
Personalised small group travel designed for you and your special crew. Photo: Ultima Antarctic Expeditions.
Is an Antarctic Expedition on your bucket list? It’s hard to know when and where to start planning a visit to the World’s most remote continent.
Ultima Antarctic Expeditions, experts in polar travel backed by two decades of experience in taking scientists and researchers to the seventh continent, has the intel you’re looking for.
Here are the five key things to consider before taking an unforgettable Antarctic expedition.
1. When is the best time to travel to Antarctica?
You want to visit Antarctica from November to early February, in the Antarctic austral summer.
This is when days are at their longest, in the 24-hour light. Temperatures are also more likely to be favourable – typically between 0 and -10 degrees celsius.
You’ll be able to visit an emperor penguin colony in November and December, coinciding with the culmination of the long breeding season. Catch penguin chicks in their adorable downy plumage in the run-up to their big departure from the colony to take their first swims.
Ultima’s exclusive deep-field journeys suit all ages and fitness levels, with expertly timed itineraries to make the most of your time in Antarctica.
The mesmerising Antarctic settings will stay with you for a lifetime. Photo: David Sinclair
2. Where do Antarctic expeditions start from?
Very few individuals have the privilege of experiencing the deep field of Antarctica.
Starting from Cape Town, South Africa, our expeditions offer a seamless connection from one of the world’s premier tourist cities, into the heart of the icy continent.
Flying to Antarctica (in under six hours) saves precious travel time compared with traditional, more challenging routes by ship from South America.
Before departing on your dream expedition, we meet and prepare you at the Ultima Head Office in Cape Town.
You will be equipped with all the need-to-know information during our extensive safety briefing and guest induction briefing, before leaving on our purpose-selected aircraft, along with researchers and scientists already headed for Antarctica.
However, nothing can prepare you for the excitement of the actual journey you are about to take!
Flying direct into the deep field Antarctica saves time, and opens up the lesser-explored parts of this seventh continent. Photo: Ultima Antarctic Expeditions
3. What types of expeditions are available, and can I customise them?
We specialise in tailor-made expeditions, whether you’re passionate about photography and wildlife or want an active experience hiking to ice walls or biking across a frozen glacier.
Our Expedition options include a 7-day South Pole and Emperor Penguins Expedition, a 7-day Emperor Penguins Expedition, and the 24-hour Ultima Day for unmatched ways to celebrate milestones or special occasions.
Our exclusive Mountains of Dronning Maud Land photographic expedition with David Sinclair this November is fully booked – but is now on offer for the 2025-2026 season.
As for customisation, absolutely! We create an experience that ultimately matches your interests. Reach out to our expert advisors to find out more.
A deep-field Antarctic expedition to perfectly match your energy levels. Photo: Ultima Antarctic Expeditions
4. What can I expect in terms of accommodations and meals?
All our Ultima Expeditions include polar gear, return flights, ground transfers, polar luxury accommodation, gourmet meals (designed and prepared by a private chef), and drinks.
Our new Ultima Oasis Camp will debut this November, blending sleek Scandi-designed aesthetics with eco-conscious, modern functionality.
The camp offers an intimate sanctuary for 14 guests. From private suites, configurable for couples, families or solo travellers, every detail at Oasis has been meticulously crafted to ensure a comfortable and extraordinary stay.
Expect creature comforts found in the top-rated retreats of the world, with a highly experienced team dedicated to making you feel pampered and taken care of throughout, especially after an exhilarating day of adventuring.
A traditional Banya (Sauna) sees you relax and recharge during an expedition underscored by pampered wellness. Photo: Ultima Antarctic Expeditions
5. How do I prepare for an Antarctic expedition with Ultima?
Preparing for an Ultima Antarctic expedition is part of the adventure!
To make your journey stress-free, Ultima sends a comprehensive pre-departure package, complete with a checklist, guidelines, and educational resources—everything you need to prepare.
Here’s what you can do to prepare yourself for this once-in-a-lifetime trip:
- Stay in good physical health for the best experience.
- Ensure you have a valid passport for international travel.
- Polar clothing and gear are provided by Ultima, so you’ll be equipped for the elements.
- We subscribe to IAATO’s best practices for responsible and sustainable tourism to Antarctica. Please familiarise yourself with all environmental protocols, helping protect its pristine beauty.
- Review the itinerary and safety protocols guided by our expert team for your safety and peace of mind.
Come explore the most remote and breathtaking corners of Antarctica. Photo: Corrie Uys
Reach out to learn more about date availability for Ultima’s upcoming season between November 2024 and February 2025.