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 FeedTravel Tips
Nov 24, 2023Friendly Like Me App Helps Families Find Accessible Travel Options
Friendly Like Me, available for Apple and Android devices, is a first-of-its-kind app designed with the more than 33 percent of Americans who may need special accessibility accommodations while on family travel in mind.
Sponsored Content
Unearth Seoul’s Hidden Gems
Filled with hidden treasures waiting to be discovered, Seoul invites travelers to unearth its many gems, and Seoul Tourism Organization is here to help travelers do just that. Through thoughtfully created initiatives like the Theme Tourism County Competition, Seoul Tourism Organization works closely with local districts to identify and showcase what makes each district unique and charming in all seasons.
Slideshow
Nov 23, 20236 Pies from Around the World to Try on Family Travels
It’s time to start dreaming of your next family trip. Here’s some destination inspiration for you. Take a visual journey through these pies from around the world, and maybe you’ll be inspired to take that next trip for a delicious slice.
Travel Tips
Nov 22, 2023New Hilton Report Shows What All Ages Want from Travel
Trying to plan a multigen trip? You may anticipate trouble finding a travel destination, activities and more to appeal to every member of your crew. However, a new report from Hilton found there are certain experiences all travelers want right now, regardless of generation.
Sponsored Content
United Airlines Celebrates its First Class of United Aviate Graduates
As the only major U.S. airline to own a flight school, United Airlines already hit a major milestone, and now the carrier celebrates another important — and historic — step as the inaugural class of United Aviate Academy pilots graduates, leading the next generation of aviators. The 51 students in the graduating class were majority, at 80 percent, women and people of color — another stride toward United’s goal of training 5,000 new pilots by 2030 with half women or POC.
Multigenerational
Nov 21, 202310 Resorts & Hotels Around the World with Festive Celebrations 2023, Part 2
With the holiday season upon us, resorts all over the world pull out all the stops to bring the joy of the holidays to family travelers of all ages. Here are five more resorts to check out this holiday season:
ShareThis