If you’ve ever dreamed of once-in-a-lifetime family travel to Antarctica, you aren’t alone. After all, it is one of the world’s last unspoiled frontiers, and you can take part in amazing adventures like kayaking among humpback whales.
But, like many others, you may be stumped where to begin planning. Arming yourself with some key tips and information will not only make your dreams come true but also create a vacation the family will never forget.
Decide on the best way for your family to travel. While it is possible to visit the continent by plane, it is not environmentally friendly and there are few options. Air travel allows you to take a shorter trip and avoid a few days at sea, but the cost is often higher. This makes cruising to Antarctica a better option with lower overall costs and more freedom to choose your travel dates.
Whichever travel option you choose, book through a licensed tour operator. Antarctica has no official government, no official language (although Russian and English are commonly spoken) and no official currency. That also means no travel visa is required, but you still have to have permission to visit, something your tour operator will arrange.
Only scientific expeditions are allowed on the continent during winter months, so plan your trip during the summer. Keep in mind, though, below the equator, summer means November–April. Early in the season is the best time to view the landscape, but if you want to see plenty of wildlife, like humpback whales and emperor penguins, wait until later in the season when the waters are warmer and wildlife is more active.
Many tour providers for Antarctica share similar sentiments: This is a great trip for families, but it’s best to wait until the kids are old enough to take an active interest in the adventure. The destination is rugged, as is the journey, so when kids are interested and able to participate in the educational aspects of the trip, the result is a vacation that is not only easier on parents but also more rewarding for the whole family.
Read This Next
#WhereverFamily
Insta FeedHotels
Apr 14, 2025Have a Family Spring Escape in Napa Valley at The Meritage
Napa Valley isn’t just for wine lovers; family travelers will be delighted to find out there is plenty for them to experience, as well. The Meritage Resort and Spa leads that charge by offering experiences the whole family will enjoy every Saturday in April.
Sponsored Content
Madrid: A Destination for All Ages
However one is traveling, what matters is having fun and creating unforgettable memories. Among many ways to travel, multigenerational trips — on which grandparents, parents and children get to spend quality time together — are gaining popularity. Setting out on this sort of adventure? Madrid has something to offer everyone!
Hotels
Apr 14, 2025Beaches Resorts Announces Nearly $1 Billion in Expansion Plans
Family travelers have reason to celebrate: Family all-inclusive vacation brand Beaches recently announced plans to invest almost $1 billion in expansion in the next five years. New destinations for Beaches locations include Barbados; Exuma, The Bahamas; Jamaica; and Turks and Caicos.
Multigenerational
Apr 11, 2025Sea Island, The Broadmoor and Windstar Cruises Launch Honeymoon Package
Start your new life as family travelers with this new collaboration from Sea Island, The Broadmoor and Windstar Cruises. Couples who celebrate their wedding at either Sea Island or The Broadmoor have the unique chance to take advantage of significant savings on a seven-night, all-inclusive honeymoon cruise to the islands of French Polynesia with Windstar.
Kids
Apr 11, 2025Coachella, But Make It Kid-Sized at LEGO Festival in California
Upcoming Coachella weekends might not be on family travelers' radars, but LEGOLAND California is making sure all feel included with its first-ever LEGO Festival, offering California visitors and locals a kid-friendly alternative to Coachella. Little travelers can expect as much excitement, fun and entertainment as a real music festival.
Travel Tips
Apr 10, 2025Should Kids Go to Medieval Torture Museums?
Whether gruesome scenes are right for your child’s age and nightmare level is a parental decision. But before your family travels to Europe this summer, there’s something you should know about these “museums” that have popped up in almost every city with a castle or a medieval past.
ShareThis