5 Reasons to Visit Antarctica in November

  1. The penguins populations in the rookeries are swelling and the birds are busy nest-building and courting
  2. Extensive snow cloaks Antarctica in a ‘pristine whiteness’. Sea ice is still prevalent and at its most impressive
  3. Fantastic photo opportunities - amazing sunsets, noctilucent clouds and spring flowers blooming in The Falklands
  4. Weddell and Fur seals are busy mating, while in South Georgia rowdy beach master Elephant seals are fighting
  5. Albatross, marine fulmars and petrels fly the Drake Passage while Blue-eyed shags return to Antarctica
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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

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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Sunset over icebergs, Antarctica
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What our customers think

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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.

Colin & Jacqui UK November 2017

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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.

Jennifer UK November 2017

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Probably the highlight (there were many) was landing on the continent. Other highlights: thousands of penguins, many whales, hundreds of birds. Mountains covered with snow. Icebergs everywhere, some that rolled, looking very wet, some with a dusting of snow that looked like powder sugar and some with seals laying in the sun.

Bob California November 2017

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It was majestic and moody and beautiful.

Ryan George United States Of America November 2017

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The trip actually exceeded expectations, thanks to the superb organisation and energy of the crew, combined with a relatively small and friendly group of passengers in such a spectacular place.The ship could not be bettered.

Sheryl & John New Zealand November 2017

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It was magnificent. We very much appreciated the assistance provided by Swoop and the recommendations - particularly our cabin chosen by Alex. The organisation of the crew every day to get everyone on shore was exceptional. Everyone provided excellent service; it could not have been better.

Prue & Dominique Australia November 2017

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Going early in the season gave us pristine snowy landscapes. We had the unique opportunity to see a lone emperor penguin. Getting out onto the sea ice and so close to massive icebergs was fantastic.

Janet California November 2017

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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 2021

Antarctica Cruises November 2022

Antarctic Travel in November: FAQs

  • 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:

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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 December

Viewing humpback whales off the Melchior Islands, Antarctica

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 …

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Antarctica in January

Emperor penguin with fluffy chick, South Georgia, Antarctica

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,…

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Antarctica in February

Majestic iceberg in the Crystal Sound, Polar Circle, Antarctica

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 …

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Antarctica in March

Taking a Zodiac ride to Pleneau Bay, 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 …

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