Camping in Antarctica
Go camping in Antarctica to fall asleep beneath the polar night sky and wake up in the morning to a stunning glacial landscape.
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5 reasons to go snowshoeing in Antarctica
- You can roam higher up and farther afield than in your muck boots alone, resulting in heart-rending views of the White Continent
- Excursions last between 90 minutes and three hours – long enough for you to reach untouched snow ready and waiting to be imprinted with your tracks
- As no experience is necessary, and usually just a moderate level of fitness is required, snowshoeing in Antarctica is an accessible activity suited to most people
- It’s one of the most cost-effective polar excursions, typically included in the price of an Antarctic cruise and a highly affordable add-on when offered as a paid extra
- It has less impact on local wildlife compared to wearing muck boots alone as you'll avoid making deep holes in the snow that penguins can become trapped inside
Maddison says
The hardest thing about snowshoeing? Strapping on the shoes! Yet they're easy to walk in once you get used to them. And while other guests in muck boots constantly sank into the fresh snow, I managed to get so far from shore that my ship looked like a tiny speck on the horizon.
Maddison Clare Antarctica Sales Specialist
How does snowshoeing in Antarctica work?
Snowshoeing is usually a group activity, led by expert mountain guides. You’ll be ferried to shore at the beginning of the excursion and your expedition team member will dictate the route. Excursions typically last two to three hours but will be judged on the group’s general fitness levels.
Snowshoeing is an easy (and sometimes necessary) way of exploring the coastline of the Antarctic Peninsula. With a few pointers from your guide, usually given on board the ship during a pre-excursion briefing, you'll quickly get the hang of it.
You’ll put on snowshoes while layered up and having restricted movement, which can be tricky. But they’re easy enough to walk in – similar to skis but not as heavy.
Who does Antarctic snowshoeing suit?
- People with a generally good level of fitness
- Absolute beginners as no experience is needed
- Anyone who wants to get further into Antarctica's interior
Is snowshoeing safe?
Snowshoeing is a group activity led by expert guides. It's not a risky excursion and the expedition team takes safety seriously, so you'll be in little danger.
What our customers think of snowshoeing in Antarctica
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
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
Review:
What will you see while snowshoeing in Antarctica?
Snowshoeing is all about experiencing Antarctica through a different lens. Typically, you can go beyond the usual restrictions and venture out into pristine wilderness, travelling higher up and further away than muck boots alone can carry you.
It’s also about your senses – snowshoeing in Antarctica can be a meditative experience as you kick your feet forward, hearing nothing but the rhythmic crunch of the snow underfoot as you take in the surrounding vastness.
Voyages with snowshoeing
Special Offers:Swoop has access to the widest range of offers and can help you find the right trip, cabin, & price.
4.3 out of 5
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’. An excellent deal backed up…
- 13 Days
- $10,550
4.6 out of 5
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
4.7 out of 5
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 67 passenger expedition…
- 8 Days
- $11,495
4.3 out of 5
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
4.6 out of 5
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
4.5 out of 5
Antarctic Peninsula Explorer
Explore the White Continent aboard one of the newest additions to the polar fleet, a state-of-the-art expedition vessel combining adventure with comfort. As well as being limited to only 130 passengers, there’s also a wide range of optional activities on…
- 12-15 Days
- $12,795
4.3 out of 5
Crossing the Antarctic Circle
Spend 6 full days exploring Antarctica with the Polar Circle at 66 degrees south as your most southerly objective, on board one of the most exciting new vessels. A maximum of just 130 passengers, with spacious cabins, state-of-the-art technology and…
- 13-14 Days
- $16,195
4.5 out of 5
66 Degrees South Fly Cruise
By offering time saving flights, extended time in Antarctica and the chance to reach the Polar Circle, this 10-day voyage maximises the polar experience. Minimum travel time and maximum exploring time and all the benefits of only 76 people…
- 10 Days
- $15,995
4.5 out of 5
Discover South Georgia, Antarctica and Falklands
This voyage stands out by visiting the Antarctic Peninsula first and keeping the wonders of South Georgia for the second half. You’ll travel on board one of the most exciting new polar ships with spacious cabins, state-of-the-art technology and optional…
- 19-25 Days
- $22,595
4.5 out of 5
South Shetland Islands & Antarctica Voyage
A classic 10-day voyage to the White Continent. Perfect for those wanting great value and comfortable accommodation. Sail aboard a purpose-built X-bow expedition ship with an average of 175…
- 9-12 Days
- $10,195
3.6 out of 5
Explore the Antarctic Peninsula
Travelling aboard a state-of-the-art small ship and accompanied by unparalleled onboard expertise, expeditionary cruising doesn’t get much better. Regular departures throughout the season and a choice of three outstanding ships renowned for their comfort, enhanced safety features and spirit of…
- 12 Days
- $16,810
5 out of 5
Encounter the Antarctic Circle
An extended voyage to the peninsula with 6 full days exploring the White Continent. Your comfortable 175 passenger ship will sail towards 66 degrees south in pursuit of the remote Antarctic Circle. An ice-strengthened PC6 hull allows your vessel to…
- 12 Days
- $10,995
With complimentary kayaking, camping and snowshoeing included, this trip will appeal to adventurous travellers keen to take in the best of the Antarctic Peninsula. A comfortable ship, high calibre guiding and great value for money to…
- 13 Days
- $10,545
Ideal for active travellers with an adventurous spirit. The voyage cost includes the chance to kayak past sculptural icebergs and spend a night open-air camping in Antarctica. Dip below the surface with a unique snorkelling activity and snowshoe past waddling…
- 15 Days
- $16,995
Sail on a 5* icebreaker to Antarctica’s remote Weddell Sea region. Custom-built with cutting-edge nautical technology, this tough yet elegant vessel is designed to tackle the notoriously icy conditions. Your expert guides and Photo Ambassador will scan the spectacular ice…
- 14 Days
- $30,850
Retrace the path of famed French explorer Jean-Baptiste Charcot on a luxurious icebreaker. Heading further south than most expedition vessels can attempt, you'll venture below the Antarctic Circle. Spend an impressive 9 days exploring with the expert expedition team, immersing…
- 16 Days
- $27,290
Planning your Antarctic snowshoeing excursion
When to go snowshoeing
Antarctic snowshoeing is at its best in November and December when the snow cover is heaviest. It's sometimes offered after these months, but if it's an activity you're determined to tick off your bucket list, we recommend travelling in the early season.
How much does it cost?
Snowshoeing is a free optional activity on a handful of voyages, including the Antarctic Basecamp Adventure. When charged as an additional cost, expect to pay between $85 to $200 per person.
What to pack for Antarctic snowshoeing
Your snowshoes will be loaned to you once you’re on shore, so you won’t need to bring a pair. Walking poles are also available on most ships, but if you need these to feel more stable, we’d recommend packing your own.
Otherwise you'll wear the kit you'd usually wear on landings: base layers, muck boots, a hat, sunglasses, waterproof trousers and an expedition jacket.
When to book
We always recommend booking your Antarctic snowshoeing trip at least a year in advance to make sure you get the best choice of cabin on the best ship for you. Our polar experts are happy to chat through all the options available.
How to book
When you start planning your trip by reaching out to one of our Antarctic specialists, tell them you’d like to go snowshoeing. Your polar expert will be able to recommend itineraries that include this memorable activity.
Swoop says
Technically undemanding and definitely worth the extra physical effort for the views alone, snowshoeing in Antarctica is a fantastic low-cost optional activity. Make sure you pack your camera!
Antarctic snowshoeing: FAQs
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How fit do I need to be to go snowshoeing in Antarctica?
Snowshoeing on snow-covered terrain can be a little strenuous, so your level of physical fitness should be moderate to good.
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How long do snowshoeing excursions last?
Anywhere between an hour and three, depending on the weather and conditions.
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Are there any age limits for snowshoeing in Antarctica?
It depends on the ship you're travelling on, but when there's an age limit it's typically 12 years old and over.
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Can I go off on my own while snowshoeing?
No – Antarctica presents special challenges, and in the interests of safety, snowshoeing operates only as group excursions led by experienced mountain guides. Independent exploring is not possible.
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Can I go hiking in Antarctica?
South Georgia offers better trekking opportunities than Antarctica. The most famous multi-day option traces the final leg of Shackleton’s historic journey from Fortuna Bay to Stromness.
More Adventure Activities in Antarctica
Kayaking in Antarctica
Imagine the swish of water as it passes your hull or the clack of brash ice against your paddle blade. Skim past penguin rookeries and seals sleeping on passing ice floes.
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Paddleboarding in Antarctica
Paddleboarding has taken the adventure world by storm and is one of the fastest growing sport activities, so why not in Antarctica?
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Scuba Diving in Antarctica
Sink below the Southern Ocean's pristine waters and immerse yourself in another world.
Discover MoreReady to plan your Antarctic adventure?
1
Listen
We'll spend some time listening to your aspirations, then discuss the kind of experience that might suit you.
2
Match
Next we'll discuss the options, shortlist the best trips for you and present you our impartial recommendations.
3
Reserve
We'll place a 24 hour hold on your preferred option - without obligation - whilst we talk through the details.
With over 100 years of Antarctic experience between us, we can help guide you to exactly the right trip for you.
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