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
Swoop 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 Specialist
How does snowshoeing in Antarctica work?
Snowshoeing in Antarctica
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
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.
Snowshoeing at Cuverville in Antarctica in November
Voyages with snowshoeing
Price Match Promise - We’ll match any price you find elsewhere for the same trip
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
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Paddleboarding 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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