Visiting Antarctica in January
high season
With more than 20hrs of sunlight, this is a fabulous time to visit Antarctica. Temperatures can rise as high as 15ºC. Penguin chicks are a highlight at this time of year.
The ice is starting to recede and cruises can start their polar circle voyages to 66 degrees south. With the opening of the ice comes the opportunity to access the Ross Sea and make visits to Shackleton and Scott’s huts.
Visiting Antarctica in February
high season
Arguably prime time to visit Antarctica, with substantial daylight hours and average temperatures of -6°C. The sea ice melts enough to allow access and it is one of the best times to spot whales, sea birds and fledgeling penguin chicks having their first swimming lessons. February is when having had their fill of krill, the humpback whales start to show off a little more breaching, spy hopping and lobtailing.
Visiting Antarctica in March
high season
If cetaceans are of more interest than fluffy baby penguin chicks then March is a fabulous time to travel. Before they start heading north the whales begin to congregate together, so the opportunity to see large groups together increases. Wilhelmina Bay is situated along the west coast of Graham Land between Reclus Peninsula and Cape Anna and is one of the best places to see groups of humpback whales. As the summer draws to a close and the whales are refuelled on krill they are more playful, increasing the chances of them putting on a spectacular display for visitors.
Visiting Antarctica in April
low season
Visiting Antarctica in May
low season
Visiting Antarctica in June
low season
Visiting Antarctica in July
low season
Visiting Antarctica in August
low season
Visiting Antarctica in September
low season
Visiting Antarctica in October
medium season
October is the start of the Antarctica season and the first opportunities for cruises as the ice starts to break up. Penguins such as Adelie, gentoo and chinstrap start to come ashore and pair up for mating. Southern elephant seals are breeding (Aug – Nov), which means you have a better chance of seeing them hauled out on the beeches. October is a great time to see their adorable pups.
Visiting Antarctica in November
medium season
With the sun low in the sky and icebergs at their largest November can be a great time for photographers. It marks the egg-laying when the female penguins can be seen waddling around with their eggs. It is also the end of the breeding season for elephant seals.
Visiting Antarctica in December
high season
Peak season really starts to get going in December, as the penguin chicks start to hatch in the middle of the month. The summer brings with it over 20hrs of sunlight giving you the maximum amount of daylight to discover this incredible destination. Towards the end of the month popularity with travellers grows and so too prices. If you wish to travel over Christmas or New Year make sure you get in contact with us early, so as not to be disappointed. Many of our clients book with us 1-2 years in advance.