Getting Around Antarctica

Air

There are no scheduled domestic air services. Aircraft are used by national Antarctic programmes and specialist expedition operators to reach research stations, field camps and remote areas of the continental interior. Tourist flights within Antarctica are arranged as part of organised expeditions rather than as point-to-point public transport.

Air Note

Flights are highly dependent on weather, visibility and runway conditions, and delays are common. Travellers on fly-in expeditions should allow considerable flexibility in their schedules.

Road

Antarctica has no public road network. Tracks and marked routes exist around some research stations and bases, where specialised vehicles such as tracked vehicles, snowmobiles and other over-snow transport are used for scientific and logistical operations. Visitors travelling into the interior normally use transport provided by their expedition operator.

Rail

Water

Small inflatable boats, commonly known as Zodiacs, are the principal means of travelling between expedition ships and landing sites. They are also used for cruises among icebergs, along coastlines and in areas where passengers remain on the water to observe scenery and wildlife. Landings and boat excursions depend on weather, sea ice and local conditions.

Some expedition operators offer activities such as kayaking, usually under the supervision of specialist guides and subject to weather and sea conditions. Visitors must follow expedition staff instructions and maintain appropriate distances from wildlife.