Antarctica: Trip Preparation & Destination Information

About Antarctica

Overview

Antarctica is a vast, icy continent located at the southernmost part of the Earth. It boasts stunning landscapes, pristine wilderness, and unique wildlife. Expect to witness breathtaking scenery, including towering icebergs, massive glaciers, and snow-covered landscapes. Conditions permitting, you'll be presented with opportunities to see penguins, seals, whales, and a variety of seabirds in their natural habitat. Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure to Antarctica aboard an expedition ship, where you'll witness awe-inspiring landscapes, encounter unique wildlife, and immerse yourself in the pristine wilderness of the southernmost continent, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Time Zone: Argentina Standard Time (GMT-3)

Currency: Argentinian Peso in Argentina; USD and major credit cards onboard the ship

Emergency Number: A satellite phone is available on the ship (for emergencies only)

Outlet: Standard European two round pin plugs

Language: English is the common language spoken on board the ship

Packing List

Packing the right clothing and gear is an important part of preparing for a trip to Antarctica. Please follow the packing list below to make sure you have everything you need to be prepared and have an enjoyable trip.

Life jackets are provided for offshore trips
Clothing or gear that can shed or pill, or possibly leave a trace (such as pom-poms on hats) cannot be worn on offshore landings.
Clothing needs will vary in weight and warmth whether you are inside the warm ship, on the windy viewing deck, or in freezing temperatures offshore. Layering clothing will be key to making sure you are comfortable wherever you are during this adventure.

The following 3 items will be provided with only the insulated inner jacket to be kept by Travelers after the trip.

Expedition Parka (provided on loan during trip)
Muck Boots (provided on loan during trip)
Insulated Inner Jacket (yours to keep)

CLOTHING

Shoes - Comfortable, non-slip footwear for wearing inside the ship
Multiple thermal base layers (tops and bottoms) - Provide insulation and moisture-wicking properties
Short sleeve tops and long sleeve tops - Combine with thermal layers to stay warm but also comfortable when you come back to the warm ship and take off your outside clothes
Mid-layer fleece or down jacket - For added warmth
Jacket - A windbreaker or water-resistant/waterproof jacket for an outer layer and wind protection when on the ship's deck
Waterproof and windproof outer pants - Protect against the elements
Waterproof ski pants - For added warmth
Walking/Hiking Trousers - To wear onboard the ship or during your time in Argentina
A tight-fitting warm hat - Warm woolen or synthetic hats that cover your ears (non-pilling/shedding) and that fit your head. Loose hats are NOT recommended
Scarf, snood, gaiter, or balaclava - Keep your head and neck warm!
Insulated/waterproof gloves or mittens and glove liners - Packing two pairs of gloves/mittens is recommended in case one goes missing or gets wet. Waterproof is a must, and a thinner inner pair is recommended to help stay warm in case you need to remove your larger waterproof glove to take pictures, etc.
Thick thermal socks and thinner socks - A few thick pairs for shore visits and thinner pairs for wearing around the ship
Sweater - A warm layer for onboard
Hooded sweatshirt - Another lighter layer option when onboard
Jeans - To wear on the ship
Nice shirt/top - For smart casual dinners onboard
Swimsuit - Enjoy the ship's pool and saunas
Gym clothing - Comfortable and useful for the ship's gym
Pajamas - The temps inside the ship are very comfortable so you don't need heavy sleepwear
Always pack extra underwear!

EQUIPMENT AND ACCESSORIES

Walking/trekking poles - For walking on the icy landscape offshore
Waterproof backpack or dry bag - Protect your camera, equipment, and personal belongings during shore excursions
Reusable Water Bottle - Staying hydrated is a recipe for success. You will have access to drinking water onboard for refilling
Sunglasses/ski goggles - With UV protection to shield your eyes from the bright sunlight reflecting off the snow and ice
Sunglasses cord - In case your glasses fall off!
Wrist strap for devices - Keep your camera, phone, etc. safe and secure
Sunblock with SPF 50+ - Protect exposed skin from intense UV rays
Binoculars - Great for wildlife observation
Power adapters or converters - Plugs are standard European two round pin plugs
Travel Pillow - A soft place to rest your head after a long day

HEALTH AND PERSONAL CARE

Prescription medications - If applicable, along with copies of prescriptions
Seasickness medication - The journey to Antarctica can involve crossing rough waters
Personal toiletries and any necessary personal care items - Toothbrush and toothpaste, tissues, deodorant, hairbrush hairbands, eye drops, etc. *eco-friendly shampoo, conditioner, and shower gel are available in all cabin bathrooms, and use is encouraged to minimize environmental impact
Basic first aid kit - Packed with essentials like band-aids, antibiotic ointment, pain relievers, and any specific medications you may need
Protect Your Tummy - Pack some Pepto Bismol, Imodium, and rehydration salts
Face and hand cream - Cold and windy conditions can make your skin dry
SPF Lip balm - Protect your lips too
Ear Plugs - Light sleeper? Nice to have in case of a snoring roommate

DOCUMENTS AND MISC

Passport - With necessary visas and travel documents
Travel insurance information - Including emergency contact numbers
Cash and/or credit cards - USD or major credit cards for onboard expenses or purchases
Waterproof document pouch - Keep important documents safe and dry
Laundry Soap - Single packets are perfect for sink washes when you're running low on clean clothes
Laptop or tablet & charger
GoPro & charger/batteries
Mini tripod
Phone & charger
Headphones
Multi-plug power board - Keep those devices charged
Camera & waterproof case - Capture memories on this once-in-a-lifetime trip, and keep them protected

OPTIONAL

Waterproof phone case - It may be wet and windy on the deck of the ship
Sleep eye mask - Block out the light and get some rest
Ziplock bags - Keep your accessories and small travel essentials organized
Slippers/moccasins - Great for walking around your cabin
Traveling snacks - There will be plenty of food on the ship, but feel free to bring some of your own favorite snacks for your cabin

An iceberg tunnel on the Antarctic Peninsula.

Weather

USHUAIA WEATHER

ANTARCTICA WEATHER

Fun Facts

Antarctica is the coldest place on Earth. The lowest recorded temperature in history, -128.6 degrees Fahrenheit (-89.2 degrees Celsius), was recorded at the Soviet Union's Vostok Station in Antarctica in 1983. The average winter temperature on the continent ranges from -40 degrees Fahrenheit (-40 degrees Celsius) to -94 degrees Fahrenheit (-70 degrees Celsius).
Antarctica is covered in ice, holding approximately 90% of the world's ice and about 70% of the planet's fresh water. The ice sheet is over 2 miles (3.2 kilometers) thick in some areas and contains an estimated 26.5 million cubic kilometers of ice.
Despite its icy landscape, Antarctica is considered a desert due to its low precipitation levels. The interior of the continent receives an average of only 2 inches (5 centimeters) of snowfall each year, while some coastal areas receive slightly more.
Antarctica is home to a variety of unique and fascinating wildlife, including penguins, seals, whales, and seabirds. The continent is particularly known for its large populations of penguins, with species such as Emperor, Adélie, and Gentoo penguins inhabiting the region.
Mount Erebus: Mount Erebus is Antarctica's most active volcano. Located on Ross Island, it stands at about 12,448 feet (3,794 meters) tall. Despite its icy surroundings, it has a lava lake in its crater and ongoing volcanic activity, making it a unique geological feature in the frozen landscape.

Tipping

Tipping Suggestions: $10 per day for the crew, $5 per day for expedition staff - total of $15 per day. Overall about $150 to $200 for the whole trip. Tips provide supplemental income, and, while not mandatory, are greatly appreciated. If the local teams have added to the experience, please reward them.

Crew		USD $10 per day
Expedition Staff		USD $5 per day

FAQ

Do I need a Visa to go to Antarctica? No, but you do need a Visa for Argentina as you will be departing from Ushuaia which is in Argentina.

Do you recommend travel insurance? Please note that traveling to Antarctica requires Trip Insurance. The insurance policy you select must cover accidents, emergency evacuation, sickness (including Covid-19), loss of baggage/personal belongings, and disruption of travel plans. Additionally, a minimum of USD $250,000 coverage for medical repatriation from Antarctica is required. Proof of Covid-19 Vaccination Required: Upon booking, please send a photo of your Covid-19 vaccination card to hi@trovatrip.com. Proof of vaccination is required in order to participate in the trip.

What about vaccines? Upon booking, please send a photo of your Covid-19 vaccination card to hi@trovatrip.com. Proof of vaccination is required in order to participate in the trip.

What is the currency used onboard? USD, but bring Argentinian peso.

What is the activity level of the trip / Do I need a certain level of fitness? Trips to Antarctica have low physical requirements which means people of all fitness levels without major mobility issues can participate.

Who will I be traveling with? You will be traveling with a diverse group of experienced Travelers of all ages and nationalities! The majority of passengers are aged between 40 and 65 years old

Will I experience seasickness? Antarctic waters can be rough, especially during the voyage through Drake Passage. If you are particularly susceptible to seasickness, it is recommended to talk to your doctor before departing and bring any necessary medications. It is also recommended to bring motion sickness tablets or patches, and avoid eating greasy food or consuming alcohol. There is a doctor on the boat to respond to any emergencies.

Luggage Restrictions