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

Looking at diving humpback whales from the Zodiac, Melchior Islands, Antarctica

Diving Humpback whale, Melchior Islands

Chinstrap penguin chicks at their nest, Antarctica

Chinstrap penguin colony

Kayaking amongst Antarctic icebergs

Looking out over tidal pools in Antarctica in December

Tidal pools in December

Approaching Neptune's Bellows, Deception Island, South Shetlands, Antarctica

Paradise Bay, Antarctica

A colony of nesting chinstrap penguins at Baily Head, South Shetland Islands, Antarctica

Nesting chinstraps, Baily Head, South Shetland Islands

Zodiac cruising in Pleneau Bay's iceberg graveyard, Antarctica

Camping above Almirante Brown (Argentine) research station, Paradise Bay, Antarctica

Sea kayaking

Swoop says

For those who like to have their cake and eat it, early December is a great time to travel. Warmer weather, long days to explore and maximum wildlife encounters, but at lower Shoulder Season pricing.

Our Top Trips in December

Antarctica at Christmas

A fantastic time to visit the 7th continent, for a guaranteed white Christmas! Enjoy festive hosting onboard your expedition vessel, as well as plenty of wildlife sightings to keep your experience magical. The weather is excellent in the festive time period, and with penguin chicks beginning to hatch, you'll certainly have lots of photographs to treasure your time at the end of the world.

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Solar Eclipse 2021

If there is anything that could arouse more awe and mystery than travelling to the southernmost continent, it may just be experiencing a solar eclipse take place over the vast white wilderness. An extraordinary event that will next occur again in 75 years, on the morning of 4th December 2021 the moon will completely cover the sun, bestowing viewers in Antarctica with a surreal few minutes of total darkness. Our solar eclipse itineraries have been carefully planned to ensure you reach the path of totality, at exactly the right time.

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What our customers think

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

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

Getting to see so much unique wildlife up close was definitely one of the highlights of the trip, aside from the amazing landscapes.

Mark Jongewaard United States Of America December 2019

The landscape was beautiful. I wanted to go early in the season to see white - snow, icebergs, clear landings. And I definitely saw that!

Angie Minnesota December 2016

We had an absolutely amazing honeymoon in Antarctica. One I'm sure we'll never forget. Highlight was the wildlife and the staff; we learned so much and had so much fun. I would definitely recommend including South Georgia/Falklands for those people that can afford the time and budget. Thanks for all your help!

Tish & Obadiah Massachusetts December 2017

You have this idea that you’re going to freeze to death before you go but that’s not the case.

Donald Emeigh United States Of America December 2019

The wildlife was more than I could have ever dreamed. The first day we were surrounded by over 20 + humpback whales breaching and feeding in Fournier bay.

Katie Salva United States Of America December 2019

The wildlife and landscapes are amazing! The kill of the seal by a group of Orcas was the highlight of the entire trip.

Laina Ho Canada December 2018

I loved having so many opportunities to spend time on the ice with the wildlife. The views, quiet, calm, and amazing wildlife was incredible.

Mukund Shenoy United States Of America December 2019

Definitely have the waterproof outerwear, but we did not experience the extreme cold. Layers were very important, you'll only need one layer on some days and other times need a winter coat. Always have sunscreen!

Kevin Duncan United States Of America December 2019

Have recommended Swoop to all our friends; more than happy with your service before, after and during our trip.

Pauline Australia December 2017

Most memorable moment was seeing penguins for the first time as we were on the mountaineering walk. Chinstrap penguins - they were so close! 🥰

Sarah Gillett Switzerland December 2019

Fantastic experience, would recommend to anyone interested in wildlife and the history of the area. Great informal atmosphere with no cocktail parties. Expedition staff were generally excellent.

David & Jill UK November 2017

Know which year you want to travel?

If you know when you want to explore the White Continent you can find your perfect trip on our specially dedicated year pages:

Alternatively you can browse the December trips for each year in the carousels below.

Antarctica Cruises December 2021

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
$12,995
1-Dec-2021
9 other departures

Antarctica in December

5 Reasons to Visit Antarctica in December