Hiking & Snowshoeing in Antarctica

Hiking and snowshoeing in Antarctica are both fun and cost effective ways to see more of this glittering continent, and a great workout to boot. They’re open to everyone with a good level of fitness and typically don’t carry any extra cost. No prior snowshoeing experience is required.

While hiking excursions are offered throughout the Antarctic season, snowshoeing is at its best in November and December when the snow cover is heaviest. At this time snowshoeing can actually be the preferred way to get around, and has less impact on local wildlife.

How does it work?

Hiking & Snowshoeing in Antarctica

Both hiking and snowshoeing are group activities, led by expert mountain guides. You’ll be ferried to shore as a group at the beginning of the excursion, from where your guide will dictate the route. Excursions typically last 2-3 hours in duration, but will be judged on general fitness levels of the group.

The mountainous topography of the Peninsula limits the chance for longer hikes everyday, however popular hiking places like Deception Island and Orne Harbour mean they are possible. South Georgia actually offers better walking opportunities, of which the most famous is the final leg of Shackleton’s historic journey trek from Fortuna Bay to Stromness.

Snowshoeing is an easy (and sometimes necessary) way of exploring the coastline of the Antarctic Peninsula - just strap them on and go! It’s not technically challenging and with a few pointers from your guide, most people quickly get the hang of them. Snowshoes are provided and will be issued to you once onshore; walking poles are also available on some ships.

How much does it cost?

The great thing about hiking using ‘shanks pony’ is that it doesn’t cost you anything. Plus, snowshoeing on many ships is an optional activity which doesn’t attract an additional cost.

When hiking/ snowshoeing is charged as an additional cost, expect to pay around $200 per person.

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Swoop says

Technically undemanding and definitely worth the extra physical effort for the views alone, hiking and snowshoeing in Antarctica are fantastic low-cost, optional activities. Make sure you pack your camera!

Voyages with Hiking & Snowshoeing

Special Offers:Swoop has access to the widest range of offers and can help you find the right trip, cabin, & price.

Antarctic Basecamp Adventure

The ultimate Antarctic adventure, this trip is specifically for the active traveller. Spend 7 days kayaking, hiking, camping, mountaineering and snowshoeing, all included in the price. A medium-sized expedition ship acts as your floating ‘basecamp’. Great value for money backed…

  • 13 Days
  • $10,200
Onto the Antarctic Ice

With three medium-sized expedition ships to pick from and regular departure dates throughout the season, this well-priced voyage is a popular option. Across striking landscapes and icy seas, your company includes penguins, seals, whales and skuas. For the adventurous, optional…

  • 10-13 Days
  • $10,050
Original Fly & Cruise Expedition Cruise

Travel with the pioneers of fly & cruise Antarctic voyages, flying in both directions and bypassing a 2-day sail on the Drake Passage. Regular departure dates (Dec - Feb) to choose from. Explore Antarctica aboard a trusty 68-passenger expedition ship…

  • 8 Days
  • $11,495
Antarctic Explorer

The great strength of this trip is choice – a wide selection of departure dates and optional adventure activities available on a sleek purpose-built 138 passenger expedition ship. Spend four full days exploring Antarctica. Enjoy daily shore landings and zodiac…

  • 11 Days
  • $13,995
Original Fly & Cruise Luxury Adventure

Fly over the Drake Passage in just 2 hours, both to and from Antarctica. ​Ideal for those ​wanting a high comfort level, but ​who have limited time or ​are ​anxious sailors. ​An outstanding program, successfully operated for over 15 seasons.​…

  • 8 Days
  • $15,995
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What our customers think of Hiking & Snowshoeing in Antarctica

Really enjoyed both the hiking and snowshoeing. Very capable and personable guides. Always felt safe. Read the full review

Travelled: November 2023

Fiona McConnell - Canada

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Whenever we went out, I always felt extremely safe and happy, whether that be in zodiacs, kayaking, mountaineering or snow shoeing. Read the full review

Travelled: December 2019

Sarah Gillett - Switzerland

We especially enjoyed the snowshoeing/trekking and were glad that we signed up early. It made many of the excursions very special for us. Every day had a memorable landscape or wildlife experience. Read the full review

Travelled: February 2019

Cary Poropatich - United States Of America

It lived up to our expectations. The trip was the right choice as the activities were perfect for our needs. I would highly recommend for those that would like to feel what Antarctica is about. Read the full review

Travelled: December 2018

Josie & Carmen Castro - Canada

The highlights for me were the whaling station at Grytviken and Shackleton's grave, and being able to hike the ridges above our landing sites. In regard to the wildlife, the vast quantity of wildlife, and how close you are to it, leaves you speechless. Read the full review

Travelled: November 2018

James Jarman - United States Of America

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I really enjoyed the amount of time I spent walking around amongst the penguins, seals and birds. There were times where I would just sit on a rock (or in the snow!), close my eyes, and absorb everything. I'll never forget the feeling of the first time I stepped on land and saw the penguins. Read the full review

Travelled: December 2017

Christine & Rollence Patugan - United States Of America

The reservation team has done a great job, they are patient and answered a lot of questions from me. Read the full review

Travelled: January 2017

Feng Zheng - China

Review:

Hiking & Snowshoeing: FAQs

  • How fit do I need to be?

    To be able to enjoy, rather than struggle and hold the group up, you need to be in good physical fitness.

  • Are there any age limitations?

    Apart from a possible minimum age limit on some ships, there’s no age limit - it's very much open to everyone who would like to.

  • Can I go off on my own?

    The answer is definitely ‘No’ - Antarctica presents special challenges and in the interests of safety, hiking and snowshoeing operate only as group excursions led by experienced mountain guides and independent exploring is not possible.

What else happens on an Expeditionary Cruise?

Read Swoop’s Guide to find out more about what you’ll do on an Antarctic cruise.

Find Out More

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With over 150 years of Antarctic experience between us, we can help guide you to exactly the right trip for you.

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