5 Reasons to Visit Antarctica in December
- The start of summer - up to 22 hours of daylight and sunnier days means more time for exploring
- The density of wildlife is increasing - penguin rookeries are at full capacity, while seal and whale sightings become common
- Penguin chicks begin to hatch, first in the Falklands, and then from mid-December on the Peninsula
- December marks the arrival back in Antarctic waters of hungry humpback whales from tropical waters
- Access to the landing sites becomes easier in December and breakup of ice allows wider exploration
Antarctica in December
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Approaching Neptune's Bellows, Deception Island, South Shetlands
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Paradise Bay
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Nesting chinstraps, Baily Head, South Shetland Islands
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Tidal Pools in December
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Diving Humpback whale, Melchior Islands
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Commuting chinstraps, Half Moon Bay in December
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Zodiac cruising in Pleneau Bay's iceberg graveyard
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Camping above Almirante Brown (Argentine) research station, Paradise Bay
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Sea Kayaking in January
Our Top Trips in December
Swoop Says
Antarctica in December 2016 with John from Swoop
What our customers think
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Mind blowing, once-in-a-lifetime trip. I would go back in a heartbeat. It far exceeded any expectations I had and I absolutely fell in love.
Deidre New York December 2017
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It exceeded our expectations and I would recommend it to everyone wanting to go visit Antarctica. We had a really wonderful time. So glad we flew!
Lori Texas December 2017
Alex says
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Its action stations in the penguin rookeries in December with the chicks about to hatch. Peek into the nests or listen out for the 'keening' sound they make - it's like looking for Christmas presents.
Alex Mudd Polar Specialist
Antarctic Travel in December: FAQs
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What's the weather like in Antarctica in December?
December is typically marked by sunshine and blue skies with increasing hours of daylight. Temperatures are reaching their warmest, as the height of the summer sets in. Glaciers calve, whales return from the tropics, and research activity increases. However, this is Antarctica and the odd whiteout can still occur. You'll want to bring warm clothing and base layers, with the following average daily temperatures:
- Antarctic Peninsula: 30 degrees F (-1 degrees C)
- South Georgia: 41 degrees F (5 degrees C)
- The Falklands: 46 degrees F (8 degrees C)
These regions experience the mildest climate in Antarctica, further inland and at higher elevations, the weather is far more extreme.
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What wildlife can I see in Antarctica in December?
By December the penguin rookeries are at full capacity and the birds are busy incubating their precious eggs. Hatching time differs on the Antarctic Peninsula between the three penguin species, and also different geographical location, but the later in December the better chances you have of seeing newly hatched chicks and hearing the particular 'keening' noise they make.
Weddell, Crabeater and Leopard seals are commonly sighted in December in good numbers, typically hauled up on ice floes. Find out more about Antarctic wildlife by visiting our dedicated page.
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Is it cheaper to visit Antarctica in December?
The key thing to note in December is that around mid-month (it differs between boat operators) the pricing steps up as high season begins. Those aware of this price watershed and who are flexible on dates can benefit from the best of both worlds: (a) travelling in the first two weeks of December under high season conditions, and (b) but at the lower shoulder season pricing.
'High season' is reflective of the better weather, more plentiful wildlife, longer days for exploring and sheer popularity, and runs from mid-December through to late February.
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Can I fly to Antarctica in December?
Yes, charter flights from Punta Arenas in Chile to Antarctica begin in early December when the Chilean airfield on King George Island resumes operations. Flights operate through to mid-February.
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What additional activities are available?
With the arrival of high summer, the opening up of the ice allows kayakers to cover more ground, while +21 hours of daylight a day provides an interesting experience for overnight campers out on the ice.
Snow conditions are usually good enough for snowshoeing up to Christmas, but can become challenging after that.
Antarctica Cruises - December
Antarctica Cruises December 2019
By December, the Antarctic summer is in full swing. Long days for exploring, hatching penguin chicks and the return of humpbacks all mark the beginning of High Season.
Antarctica Cruises December 2020
Join the increasing numbers of penguins, seals and whales enjoying the region's long sunny days and summer warmth.
Antarctica Cruises December 2021
It's high summer and the penguin rookeries are fully populated and in full swing, while humpbacks are starting to arrive and seals are sighted more regularly.
Ready to plan your Antarctic adventure?
With over 50 years of Antarctic experience between us, we can help guide you to exactly the right trip for you.