Landing at Pleneau Island to visit Gentoo penguin rookery
Acrobatic Humpback whale, Wilhelmina Bay
The Post Office & Gift Shop at Port Lockroy
Adult Chinstrap penguins with chicks
Camping in Antarctica
Large Iceberg approaching Antarctica
Sea kayaking
Sunset at Cape Tuxen, after encountering Adelie penguins on Yalour Islands
Early season Antarctic sunset
There is a price premium if you choose to travel in January, but for the favourable weather conditions and off-the-scale wildlife encounters we think it's well worth the investment. You will need to book early.
Special Offers:Swoop has access to the widest range of offers and can help you find the right trip, cabin, & price.
4.3 out of 5
Travelling aboard this modern 134-passenger ship with its 200-degree observation lounge and spacious cabins, spend 4 full days exploring Antarctica’s extraordinary icebergs and wildlife. Optional camping and kayaking, while Ushuaia hotel accommodation and a parka jacket are included in the…
4.5 out of 5
The ultimate Antarctic adventure, this trip is specifically for the active traveller. Spend 7 days kayaking, hiking, camping, mountaineering and snowshoeing, all included in the price. A medium-sized expedition ship acts as your floating ‘basecamp’. An excellent deal backed up…
5 out of 5
Sail south to the iconic Polar Circle for 7 full days exploring the highlights of the Antarctic Peninsula as part of an epic 14-day adventure. Pre-voyage hotel night in Ushuaia and a 3-in-1 parka jacket are included. An optional one-off…
4.7 out of 5
Fly over the Drake Passage in just 2 hours, both to and from Antarctica. Ideal for those wanting a high comfort level, but who have limited time or are anxious sailors. An outstanding program, successfully operated for over 15 seasons.…
We were extremely lucky with the weather.. we got to do everything thing we were supposed to. Read the full review
Travelled: January 2020
Susan Tinkler - Australia
I could not have asked for better service than Swoop provided. You answered all my questions and concerns and provided me with all trip details and requirements.
Travelled: January 2018
Al & Natalia - Florida
Excursions were the highlights of the trip. I can't point a finger to any of them saying that one was the best. They were all fantastic!
Travelled: January 2018
Zoltan & Stephen Nemeth - Florida
For me, the highlight was crossing the Antarctic circle. Unbelievable landscapes and wildlife.
Travelled: January 2018
Tony & Penny - Mississippi
Review:
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 January trips in the carousel below.
Special Offers:Swoop has access to the widest range of offers and can help you find the right trip, cabin, & price.
4.7 out of 5
By offering time saving flights, extended time in Antarctica and the chance to reach the Polar Circle, this 10-day voyage maximises the polar experience. Minimum travel time and maximum exploring time and all the benefits of only 76 people…
4.3 out of 5
Travelling aboard this modern 134-passenger ship with its 200-degree observation lounge and spacious cabins, spend 4 full days exploring Antarctica’s extraordinary icebergs and wildlife. Optional camping and kayaking, while Ushuaia hotel accommodation and a parka jacket are included in the…
Travelling on board a modern, state-of-the-art 5* ship with only 200 people, this voyage combines the best of both traditional and expedition cruising. Spend 5 days exploring the Antarctic Peninsula in comfort. All-inclusive pricing means luxury at an affordable…
Fast-tracking your arrival into Antarctica by flying and skipping the Drake Passage means a compressed journey of only 2 hours before embarking on your spacious and well-appointed 148 guest expeditionary ship. Touches other travellers have appreciated include the onboard National…
Soak up the Antarctic Peninsula's spectacular wildlife and landscapes from the ultra comfort of a modern, luxury ship. Balance time exploring ashore with sumptuous relaxation on board, where the highly trained onboard team caters to your every need. With the…
4.6 out of 5
Explore the White Continent aboard one of the polar fleet's newest additions, a state-of-the-art expedition vessel combining adventure with comfort. As well as being limited to only 130 passengers, there’s a wide range of optional activities on this classic Antarctic…
Journey beyond the Antarctic Circle in real comfort aboard a state-of-the-art expedition ship. Spend an extended period of 7 action-packed days exploring the Antarctic Peninsula. Attractive comprehensive transfer package from Buenos Aires available on select departures. Wide choice of optional…
Experience Antarctica from a hybrid diesel-electric ship with reduced fuel consumption, lower CO2 emissions and quieter sailing. Off-ship exploration, including optional kayaking and camping, is complemented by educational lectures, citizen science workshops, and crafts sessions. Relax in outdoor jacuzzis while…
Embark on this 28-day epic voyage to the Ross Sea, the 'Heart of Antarctica', experiencing the immensity of the Ross Ice Shelf and remoteness of this little-visited region. Includes privileged visits to Scott's and Shackleton's historic huts and research bases…
4.8 out of 5
For those seeking a high level of onboard comfort without formality or stuffiness, the relaxed atmosphere on this expedition is an ideal match. Smooth logistics with chartered domestic flights makes for a stress-free journey to and from Antarctica. The calming…
4.6 out of 5
If you’re keen to fly to Antarctica instead of sailing, this 8-day trip is ideal, with a choice of dates in December and January. Travel on outstanding modern expedition ships with a maximum of 140 passengers. Active adventurers can enjoy…
Looking to climb the highest peak of the Great White Continent? Over 12 days, this expertly guided trip will help you complete your 7 Summits challenge, beginning and ending with flights between Chile and Antarctica and everything taken care of…
4.5 out of 5
The ultimate Antarctic adventure, this trip is specifically for the active traveller. Spend 7 days kayaking, hiking, camping, mountaineering and snowshoeing, all included in the price. A medium-sized expedition ship acts as your floating ‘basecamp’. An excellent deal backed up…
4.6 out of 5
A cost-effective Antarctic adventure. This itinerary is also ideal for those with limited time wanting to combine Antarctica with time exploring Patagonia. Sailing one way and flying back, you get to combine two iconic places: Antarctica and Cape Horn. Note,…
Travelling aboard a modern, custom-built expedition ship with luxury amenities, all you need to do is sit back and enjoy the adventure as you speed through the Southern Ocean. The all-inclusive price – with outstanding food – is excellent value…
Sail to the White Continent aboard one of the most luxurious ships currently available. Unsurpassed comfort and true 5* service are this operator’s hallmarks. From the discreetly attentive service and French-inspired cuisine to the beautifully appointed public areas, this is…
Combining the twin advantages of flying to Antarctica with travelling on one of the polar fleet’s smallest and most advanced vessels, this voyage is hard to beat. Added benefits include an extra day or two on the Peninsula than usual,…
4.7 out of 5
Fly over the Drake Passage in just 2 hours, both to and from Antarctica. Ideal for those wanting a high comfort level, but who have limited time or are anxious sailors. An outstanding program, successfully operated for over 15 seasons.…
4.7 out of 5
Travelling on board this extremely comfortable ship, explore the highlights of the peninsula with a top class expedition team. Spacious cabins, delicious cuisine and optional adventure activities all help create this ideal marriage of comfort and…
4.3 out of 5
Spend 6 full days exploring Antarctica with the Polar Circle at 66 degrees south as your most southerly objective, on board one of the most exciting new vessels. A maximum of just 130 passengers, with spacious cabins, state-of-the-art technology and…
4.8 out of 5
Travel with the pioneers of fly & cruise Antarctic voyages, flying in both directions and bypassing a 2-day sail on the Drake Passage. Regular departure dates (Dec - Feb) to choose from. Explore Antarctica aboard a trusty 67 passenger expedition…
4.9 out of 5
For adventurers prioritising real comfort and ease of travel, this is a great option. Journey in style aboard a state-of-the-art expedition ship, with heli-sightseeing available on select departures for a unique bird's-eye view of Antarctica. Plus, the comprehensive transfer package…
4.3 out of 5
A rare and popular voyage which flies to Antarctica in just two hours, then sails back across the Drake Passage, maximising both expediency and experience. Spend 5 to 7 days exploring Antarctica on a small, purpose-built expedition ship, with kayaking…
4.6 out of 5
A classic 10-day voyage to the White Continent. Perfect for those wanting great value and comfortable accommodation. Sail aboard a purpose-built X-bow expedition ship with an average of 175…
4.8 out of 5
With three medium-sized expedition ships to pick from and regular departure dates throughout the season, this well-priced voyage is a popular option. Across striking landscapes and icy seas, your company includes penguins, seals, whales and skuas. For the adventurous, optional…
With a wide range of departure dates and a great choice of optional adventure activities to choose from, this itinerary offers flexibility and variety. Spend 4 full days exploring Antarctica with your experienced team of naturalist guides from the comfort…
Travelling in January, at the height of the Austral summer, when weather and wildlife are arguably at their optimum, spend 15 days aboard a comfortable 114-passenger expedition ship as you make your way south to bisect the intangible Polar…
4.7 out of 5
This impressive voyage combines all the comfort and speed of flying in both directions with extended time in Antarctica (7 full days), allowing you to head south towards the remote Antarctic Circle. Explore from the comfort of your outstanding purpose-built…
For those travellers looking for seamless travel on a trip that is hassle-free and all-inclusive, this is the perfect option. Skip over the notorious Drake Passage on a comfortable two hour flight to Antarctica, then travel onboard a state-of-the-art mega…
4.5 out of 5
For an unparalleled Polar Circle experience spending 8 full days in Antarctica, choose this trip. Head south when penguin and whale activity is at its peak, accompanied by a highly experienced team. This elegant 139-passenger ship combines true comfort and…
Travelling onboard a modern 5* expedition ship for only 21 days, this trip makes Antarctica’s remote Ross Sea so much more accessible. While the vessel's all-inclusive creature comforts and speed make sailing days pass by comfortably, the remoteness, wildlife and…
This fantastic trip covers all the must-see highlights of an extended Antarctic expedition. With 21 nights aboard, venture far south past vast icebergs to cross the Antarctic Circle before taking in the wildlife paradise of South Georgia's jaw-dropping king penguin…
4.6 out of 5
Travelling aboard a state-of-the-art small ship and accompanied by unparalleled onboard expertise, expeditionary cruising doesn’t get much better. Regular departures throughout the season and a choice of three outstanding ships renowned for their comfort, enhanced safety features and spirit of…
Special Offers:Swoop has access to the widest range of offers and can help you find the right trip, cabin, & price.
4.7 out of 5
By offering time saving flights, extended time in Antarctica and the chance to reach the Polar Circle, this 10-day voyage maximises the polar experience. Minimum travel time and maximum exploring time and all the benefits of only 76 people…
4.3 out of 5
Travelling aboard this modern 134-passenger ship with its 200-degree observation lounge and spacious cabins, spend 4 full days exploring Antarctica’s extraordinary icebergs and wildlife. Optional camping and kayaking, while Ushuaia hotel accommodation and a parka jacket are included in the…
Combining the twin advantages of flying to Antarctica with travelling on one of the polar fleet’s smallest and most advanced vessels, this voyage is hard to beat. Added benefits include an extra day or two on the Peninsula than usual,…
Retrace the path of famed French explorer Jean-Baptiste Charcot on a luxurious icebreaker. Heading further south than most expedition vessels can attempt, you'll venture below the Antarctic Circle. Spend an impressive 9 days exploring with the expert expedition team, immersing…
4.6 out of 5
A classic 10-day voyage to the White Continent. Perfect for those wanting great value and comfortable accommodation. Sail aboard a purpose-built X-bow expedition ship with an average of 175…
4.6 out of 5
If you’re keen to fly to Antarctica instead of sailing, this 8-day trip is ideal, with a choice of dates in December and January. Travel on outstanding modern expedition ships with a maximum of 140 passengers. Active adventurers can enjoy…
4.7 out of 5
Fly over the Drake Passage in just 2 hours, both to and from Antarctica. Ideal for those wanting a high comfort level, but who have limited time or are anxious sailors. An outstanding program, successfully operated for over 15 seasons.…
With a wide range of departure dates and a great choice of optional adventure activities to choose from, this itinerary offers flexibility and variety. Spend 4 full days exploring Antarctica with your experienced team of naturalist guides from the comfort…
4.6 out of 5
Travelling aboard a state-of-the-art small ship and accompanied by unparalleled onboard expertise, expeditionary cruising doesn’t get much better. Regular departures throughout the season and a choice of three outstanding ships renowned for their comfort, enhanced safety features and spirit of…
For a truly 5 star Southern Ocean experience, this is the voyage to consider. Cosseted aboard the most luxurious, all-inclusive expedition ships currently in Antarctica, enjoy outstanding cuisine, impeccable service and daily guided…
4.2 out of 5
On a long voyage with so many days at sea, the journey is made more enjoyable aboard this comfortable, well appointed 4* ship with its capacious cabins and dedicated staff. Choice of 17-23 day departures per season, with optional kayaking…
Journey beyond the Antarctic Circle in real comfort aboard a state-of-the-art expedition ship. Spend an extended period of 7 action-packed days exploring the Antarctic Peninsula. Attractive comprehensive transfer package from Buenos Aires available on select departures. Wide choice of optional…
Soak up the Antarctic Peninsula's spectacular wildlife and landscapes from the ultra comfort of a modern, luxury ship. Balance time exploring ashore with sumptuous relaxation on board, where the highly trained onboard team caters to your every need. With the…
4.8 out of 5
With three medium-sized expedition ships to pick from and regular departure dates throughout the season, this well-priced voyage is a popular option. Across striking landscapes and icy seas, your company includes penguins, seals, whales and skuas. For the adventurous, optional…
A hassle-free trip including charter flights in South America and a short 2-hour plane hop to the White Continent. Bypassing the Drake Passage's unpredictable waters, you’ll travel on a luxury all-inclusive vessel with 5 full days exploring Antarctica. Between off-ship…
Experience Antarctica from a hybrid diesel-electric ship with reduced fuel consumption, lower CO2 emissions and quieter sailing. Off-ship exploration, including optional kayaking and camping, is complemented by educational lectures, citizen science workshops, and crafts sessions. Relax in outdoor jacuzzis while…
4.7 out of 5
This impressive voyage combines all the comfort and speed of flying in both directions with extended time in Antarctica (7 full days), allowing you to head south towards the remote Antarctic Circle. Explore from the comfort of your outstanding purpose-built…
4.5 out of 5
This voyage stands out by visiting the Antarctic Peninsula first and keeping the wonders of South Georgia for the second half. You’ll travel on board one of the most exciting new polar ships with spacious cabins, state-of-the-art technology and optional…
4.5 out of 5
The ultimate Antarctic adventure, this trip is specifically for the active traveller. Spend 7 days kayaking, hiking, camping, mountaineering and snowshoeing, all included in the price. A medium-sized expedition ship acts as your floating ‘basecamp’. An excellent deal backed up…
Embark on this 28-day epic voyage to the Ross Sea, the 'Heart of Antarctica', experiencing the immensity of the Ross Ice Shelf and remoteness of this little-visited region. Includes privileged visits to Scott's and Shackleton's historic huts and research bases…
Fast-tracking your arrival into Antarctica by flying and skipping the Drake Passage means a compressed journey of only 2 hours before embarking on your spacious and well-appointed 148 guest expeditionary ship. Touches other travellers have appreciated include the onboard National…
4.9 out of 5
Join this classic Southern Ocean voyage, with a choice of two 21-day departures in the season. Travel aboard a generously proportioned 134-passenger expeditionary ship, undertake daily landings, with camping and kayaking for the…
4.6 out of 5
A cost-effective Antarctic adventure. This itinerary is also ideal for those with limited time wanting to combine Antarctica with time exploring Patagonia. Sailing one way and flying back, you get to combine two iconic places: Antarctica and Cape Horn. Note,…
4.7 out of 5
Travelling on board this extremely comfortable ship, explore the highlights of the peninsula with a top class expedition team. Spacious cabins, delicious cuisine and optional adventure activities all help create this ideal marriage of comfort and…
Share the magic of this Ross Sea voyage with just 130 fellow explorers aboard one of the newest expedition ships. Equipped with cutting-edge stabilisers and an X-bow, this vessel is perfectly designed with comfort in mind. Your trip includes ample…
Encounter a diverse blend of history, landscapes and epic wildlife with an impressive 12 days of off-ship exploring the Falklands, South Georgia and Antarctica. A pre-voyage Santiago hotel stay and domestic charter flights are included for maximum convenience and value.…
4.8 out of 5
Travel with the pioneers of fly & cruise Antarctic voyages, flying in both directions and bypassing a 2-day sail on the Drake Passage. Regular departure dates (Dec - Feb) to choose from. Explore Antarctica aboard a trusty 67 passenger expedition…
4.8 out of 5
For those seeking a high level of onboard comfort without formality or stuffiness, the relaxed atmosphere on this expedition is an ideal match. Smooth logistics with chartered domestic flights makes for a stress-free journey to and from Antarctica. The calming…
If you’re undecided between sailing or flying to Antarctica, why not choose both with this combination trip? A two hour flight south provides fast access to the White Continent, then after four incredible days of exploring, you’ll sail back across…
An epic 23-day voyage which packs in an astonishing 7 days in Antarctica, 4 days in wildlife-rich South Georgia and the Antarctic Circle at 66 degrees south. It's very rare to find a trip combining all three places. Limited departure…
Travelling on board a modern, state-of-the-art 5* ship with only 200 people, this voyage combines the best of both traditional and expedition cruising. Spend 5 days exploring the Antarctic Peninsula in comfort. All-inclusive pricing means luxury at an affordable…
4.5 out of 5
With a good choice of departure dates through the season across three medium-sized ships, this 19-22 day trip stands out for its value for money and the broad range of cabin categories available, including Quads, which are…
A chic Scandi-style vessel with an informal onboard atmosphere is your launchpad for this wildlife-rich expedition covering the dramatic trifecta of the Falklands, South Georgia and Antarctica. Smooth domestic travel logistics in Argentina are woven into the inclusive itinerary for…
Enjoy the best of both worlds by sailing south, experiencing the journey across the Drake Passage and the elation of spotting your first iceberg, then expedite your return to civilisation by plane at the end. In between, spend four days…
An innovative itinerary exploring some of Antarctica’s most inaccessible locations by ship, zodiac and helicopter. The most extensive expedition of its kind, this voyage takes in the wildlife paradise of South Georgia and rarely visited South Sandwich Islands. True adventurers…
4.3 out of 5
For maximum time in Antarctica with flights both ways, this trip really stands out. An extended fly & cruise voyage spending eight full days actually in Antarctica onboard a small, state-of-the-art expedition ship. Optional kayaking & polar…
Sail to the White Continent aboard one of the most luxurious ships currently available. Unsurpassed comfort and true 5* service are this operator’s hallmarks. From the discreetly attentive service and French-inspired cuisine to the beautifully appointed public areas, this is…
Travelling aboard a modern, custom-built expedition ship with luxury amenities, all you need to do is sit back and enjoy the adventure as you speed through the Southern Ocean. The all-inclusive price – with outstanding food – is excellent value…
The most time-efficient trip for combining the top highlights of the Southern Ocean: the dramatic Antarctic Peninsula and the wildlife mecca of South Georgia. Travelling on a comfortable, ice-strengthened expedition ship you'll experience everything from king penguin rookeries to vast…
Travelling in January, at the height of the Austral summer, when weather and wildlife are arguably at their optimum, spend 15 days aboard a comfortable 114-passenger expedition ship as you make your way south to bisect the intangible Polar…
Travelling onboard a modern 5* expedition ship for only 21 days, this trip makes Antarctica’s remote Ross Sea so much more accessible. While the vessel's all-inclusive creature comforts and speed make sailing days pass by comfortably, the remoteness, wildlife and…
4.3 out of 5
Spend 6 full days exploring Antarctica with the Polar Circle at 66 degrees south as your most southerly objective, on board one of the most exciting new vessels. A maximum of just 130 passengers, with spacious cabins, state-of-the-art technology and…
Swoop has catered for travellers of every group size. Whether you’re adventuring solo or bringing a group of over 100. We can help.
It's the height of summer in Antarctica with temperatures averaging 43 degrees F / 6 degrees C and the weather is generally stable, with plenty of sunshine and blue skies.
Average temperatures across the continent:
January is a very active month for wildlife in Antarctica. The fluffy, mega cute penguin chicks are growing rapidly and parents are taking it in turns to go out to sea to fish for their ever demanding offspring. Observe the comical "feeding chases" as the hungry chicks chase their parents along the shoreline for more food.
Whales are seen this month in increasing numbers, particularly humpback and minke, but also orcas who are very impressive if you catch them hunting.
January is 'high season' and the busiest month in Antarctica. The weather and wildlife are arguably at their best, and it's a very popular time for those travellers who live in the Northern Hemisphere to take a holiday, which means you need to book early (12-18 months in advance).
As such there is an approximately 20-25% premium for choosing to travel at this time, over shoulder season rates.
Yes, charter flights from Punta Arenas in Chile to Antarctica begin in early December and operate through to mid-February.
With the arrival of high summer, the opening up of the ice allows kayakers to cover more ground, while +21 hours of daylight a day provides an interesting experience for overnight campers out on the ice.
In November Antarctica opens its arms to the season's first visitors. You'll not only enjoy the excitement of walking on virgin snow, but you'll also appreciate its beauty as you …
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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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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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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 …
Discover MoreRead Swoop's guide on choosing the best month and year for you, with advice on how to plan your perfect Antarctic voyage.
We'll spend some time listening to your aspirations, then discuss the kind of experience that might suit you.
Next we'll discuss the options, shortlist the best trips for you and present you our impartial recommendations.
We'll place a 24 hour hold on your preferred option - without obligation - whilst we talk through the details.
With over 100 years of Antarctic experience between us, we can help guide you to exactly the right trip for you.
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