Antarctica in December
The summer sun bathes the continent in 20-24 hours of daylight in December, making it a popular time to visit. It's also a busy time for the penguin rookeries as the chicks begin …
5 Reasons to Visit Antarctica in November
- The penguins populations in the rookeries are swelling and the birds are busy nest-building and courting
- Extensive snow cloaks Antarctica in a ‘pristine whiteness’. Sea ice is still prevalent and at its most impressive
- Fantastic photo opportunities - amazing sunsets, noctilucent clouds and spring flowers blooming in the Falklands
- Weddell and fur seals are busy mating, while in South Georgia elephant seal beach masters patrol their recently won harems
- Albatross, marine fulmars and petrels fly the Drake Passage while blue-eyed shags return to Antarctica
Antarctica in November
Walking on fast ice
Orne Harbour
Leopard seal on an ice floe
A frozen bay where a ship has recently 'parked up'
Setting up camp in November
Whalers Bay, Deception Island, South Shetland Islands
Mountaineering above Paradise Bay in November
Nesting chinstraps, Baily Head, South Shetlands
Walkers at Portal Point
Sunset, Lemaire Channel (aka 'Kodak Alley')
Swoop says
November is colder and more unpredictable weather-wise, with less fauna, but the pluses include the chance of walking on sea ice, ideal conditions for snow shoeing, good cabin availability and great prices.
Our Top Trips in November
What our customers think of Antarctica in November
Brilliant itinerary. Early season cruise was fantastic with lovely snow and ice to enjoy. Expedition staff were uniformly excellent with wide areas of knowledge and expertise. Everyone worked smoothly together to get us all ashore quickly, efficiently and safely. The Captain added to our enjoyment by giving us unexpectedly close-up experiences of polar ice.
Travelled: November 2017
Colin & Jacqui - UK
The ship was luxurious and the food, drink and service of an extremely high quality. The staff supporting trips from the ship were of a high calibre and the lecturers well informed. Nothing was too much trouble for anyone.
Travelled: November 2017
Jennifer - UK
Review:
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 November trips for each year in the carousels below.
Antarctica Cruises November 2023
Antarctica Cruises November 2024
Antarctic Travel in November: FAQs
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What's the weather like in Antarctica in November?
November is typified by colder, less predictable weather. Snow isn't uncommon on South Georgia, but makes for great photo opportunities.
Average temperatures:
- Antarctic Peninsula: 28 degrees F ( -2 degrees C)
- South Georgia: 41 degrees F ( 5 degrees C)
- The Falklands: 46 degrees F (8 degrees C)
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What wildlife can I see in Antarctica in November?
Spring has sprung in Antarctica and wildlife numbers begin increasing, particularly with the return of the penguins. On the Antarctic Peninsula the Adelie, Chinstrap and Gentoo penguins are busily engrossed in nest building, pebble stealing and courtship displays in their vast rookeries.
Humpback whales may be sighted on the Drake Passage on their annual migration south to gorge in Antarctica's krill-rich waters. To the northeast, South Georgia is an exciting place in November as the beaches are packed with rowdy elephant seals offering a visual feast you won't get at any other time of the year.
There are somewhat fewer king penguins in the rookeries, but they are still in their many, many thousands.
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Is it cheaper to visit Antarctica in November?
November is traditionally perceived as a 'shoulder season' month which is reflected in lower prices than in high season (mid-December - early February). Savings by the canny traveller can definitely be made by opting to travel in November, which in our book is a really exciting time to go to Antarctica.
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Can I fly to Antarctica in November?
The airstrip on King George Island in the South Shetlands only becomes operational from 1st December, so this month the only way to access Antarctica is by ship, sailing across the Drake Passage.
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What additional activities are available?
November is a fantastic month for the active traveller as the snow is at its best, offering ideal conditions for snowshoeing and backcountry skiing. Camping is possible, as is kayaking, but both are chilly.
Still unsure about when to travel?
Antarctica in January
January is the peak of the Antarctic summer, so you'll enjoy magical 20+ hours of sunlight each day. These extra daylight hours gives you more time each day to explore,…
Antarctica in February
February's the time for sailing all the way to the Polar Circle, the Sun's rays through December and January having weakened the pack ice significantly enough to allow for …
Antarctica in March
March marks the end of the travel season to Antarctica. You'll be able to enjoy the mesmerising colours of blooming green and pink algae against the water and ice, as well as …
Undecided on When to Travel?
Read Swoop's guide on choosing the best month and year for you, with advice on how to plan your perfect Antarctic voyage.
Ready 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 50 years of Antarctic experience between us, we can help guide you to exactly the right trip for you.
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