Best Time to Visit Antarctica

Travel Season: November • December • January • February • March

November to March is the travel season in Antarctica, as warmer temperatures, endless daylight, and peak wildlife activity create the perfect conditions for an adventure tour of the continent. During these months, penguins hatch their eggs, whales feed in the water, and seals lounge on the ice.

Travelers cannot plan a trip during a low season, as tours are not possible outside of the summer travel window. One may consider November and March as shoulder-season months, considering peak tourism happens between December and February. That said, any time between November and March offers the conditions and accessibility that make an Antarctic experience possible.

Typically, we recommend traveling in January as Antarctica is one of the best places to visit in January and this provides the best conditions. It is the warmest month in Antarctica and, though average temperatures hover around 43°F, this is far more manageable than when it drops to 32°F and below.

Best Month: January

January is the best time to visit Antarctica for good weather as it is the warmest month of the year.

Temperatures average 43°F, the skies are typically clear, and the sun does not set. These factors provide the ideal weather circumstances for outdoor activities like boat tours, hiking, wildlife viewing, canoeing, and more.

Best Months: January • February • March

Travelers visiting in January, February, and March can appreciate the stunning landscapes and wildlife activity, snapping photos of snowcapped mountains, giant glaciers, and fluffy penguin chicks flocking the islands. This time of year provides perfect opportunities to explore the vast and remote wilderness, take guided hikes and boat tours, and visit research stations.

You may also be fortunate to witness the magical light shows of the Aurora Australis, also known as the Southern Lights, on trips in March, when the spectacle becomes more prominent. Additionally, emperor penguins typically begin courtship in March.

Best Months: January • February

January and February are the best months in Antarctica for hiking enthusiasts, as they are the warmest months of the year. During these months, adventure enthusiasts can enjoy more comfortable and safe exploration of the pristine wilderness. From solo hikes to guided mountaineering expeditions, you can experience the rugged, snow-covered terrain when the conditions are best for trekking.

From scaling ice-capped mountains to trekking through the rolling hills and valleys, you'll be surrounded by breathtaking vistas and the chance to encounter local wildlife, such as penguins, seals, and whales, whether you're a seasoned hiker or seeking a new challenge in January and February.

Best Months: November • December • January

Antarctic skiing expeditions typically run between November and January, as the ice begins to melt in summer, the surface snow is perfect for tackling the slopes, and the clear skies provide the best visibility.

Though cold, the summer temperatures are more conducive to outdoor exploration, making skiing a thrilling activity between November and January among travelers searching for gentle slopes or steep faces for a remarkable mountaineering experience.

Best Months: November • December • January • February • March

The best time to visit Antarctica for wildlife spotting is any time during the travel season, from November to March. During these months, the continent comes alive with penguins, seals, and whales.

Whether you are interested in observing the famous penguin colonies, witnessing the grace of whales as they breach the water, or watching seals basking in the sun, wildlife populations are at their highest during this time and visitors can take advantage of guided tours, wildlife watching cruises, and other excursions to get up close and personal with the Antarctic animals.

Learn more: Nature & Wildlife Tours, Vacations, and Safaris

Best Months: November • March

The ideal time to visit Antarctica if you're looking to avoid crowds is during the months of November and March.

Most travelers arrive in Antarctica in January to take advantage of the continent’s warmest month of the year, making November and March appealing options for escaping the height of tourist activity.

Best Months: January

January, being the warmest month, is the best time for families with children to visit Antarctica. During this time of the year, outdoor activities are more manageable, inviting parents and their kids to experience the thrill of witnessing penguins, seals, and whales in their natural habitat.

This advice considered, family trips to Antarctica in January are not without their challenges. The weather is still incredibly cold and many activities, like hiking and kayaking, require travelers to be of a high fitness level. Should you wish to travel as a family, an expedition operator will do their best to tailor your experience to the unique requirements of your group.

Learn more: Family Vacations & Tours • Family Vacation Travel Guide

Best Months: November • December • January

For couples seeking a romantic getaway, the months of November through January in Antarctica offer breathtaking landscapes and intimate experiences. The warmer weather and clear skies provide the perfect backdrop for couples to explore the beauty of the ice and snowcapped mountains, serene glaciers, and sparkling waters teeming with marine wildlife.

During these months, you and your partner can enjoy each other's company in the peace and quiet of this remote wilderness. Whether it's a cozy picnic surrounded by snow-covered peaks or an exhilarating ski adventure down pristine slopes, the stunning scenery of Antarctica will be the ultimate backdrop for your romantic journey in November, December, or January.

Learn more: Romantic Vacations & Tours for Couples • Honeymoon Travel Guide

Best Months: January • February

January and February are the best times of the year for senior citizens to visit Antarctica. These months offer a serene and tranquil environment, with warmer weather conditions than the rest of the year. This makes it easier for seniors to explore and appreciate the stunning natural scenery Antarctica has to offer.

With the calm weather, senior citizens can take their time to visit the various wildlife habitats, where they can observe penguins, seals, and whales in their natural surroundings. This is the perfect opportunity for seniors to unwind, relax, and indulge in a slower pace of life.

Learn more: Tours & Vacations for Senior Travelers • Travel Guide for Senior Citizens

Antarctica is a destination unlike any other, offering a unique and breathtaking experience that can only be found at the bottom of the world. From wildlife watching to adventure sports and everything in between, the best time to visit Antarctica depends on what type of experience you're looking for. You can learn more in our guide on the top 8 things to do in Antarctica.

No matter what time of year you choose to visit, Antarctica is sure to leave a lasting impression. To help you plan the trip of a lifetime, be sure to take a look at our Antarctica travel guide or browse our customizable Antarctica cruises, tours, and vacations.