Camping in Antarctica
An Antarctic expedition cruise is already a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so why not make it even more memorable? Both HX Expeditions and Quark Expeditions offer a polar adventure like no other: spending the night in a tent beneath the stars in Antarctica. As you curl up in your toasty sleeping bag, the trials and tribulations of day-to-day life will fade away as a blazing sunset paints the snow amber and gold, the only sounds the wind outside your tent, the gentle creaking of the ice beneath you, the soulful echoes of whale song all around.
With just a thin tent separating you from the starlit landscape and untamed elements of the end of the earth, camping in Antarctica takes the idea of reconnecting with nature to a whole new level, and unsurprisingly, it’s an incredibly in-demand activity. Sadly, the cruise lines aren’t able to accommodate every guest on a camping excursion, so a lottery system will determine which guests have the opportunity to play polar explorer for the night. Bonne chance!
There are no physical restrictions regarding who can participate in an Antarctic camping experience, so if you think you’d enjoy it—put yourself forward!
What is the experience like?
The likes of Scott, Amundsen and Nordenskjold had top-of-the-range equipment (for the time) and so will you. You don’t need to worry about lying awake all night, teeth chattering, toes numb, as the equipment provided to you will more than meet Antarctic standards for camping in the snow. Morning will bring an awe-inspiring Antarctic sunrise, before you’ll take down camp (in line with strict environmental guidelines around leaving no trace) enjoying a special breakfast, and being taken back to the ship on a Zodiac.
What should I wear? What should I bring?
Whilst on your camping trip, the cruise line will provide you with a tent, insulated sleeping bag, and sleeping pad. You should wear warm clothing and plenty of layers, including thermals, a fleece, hat, scarf, gloves and rubber boots. You may also wish to bring a refillable water bottle, hand warmers, a camera, a pillow, an eye mask and a backpack to carry everything.
Where can I camp in Antarctica?
You will camp in Antarctica, with the exact location determined by weather conditions. De Mo Point, South Georgia, and the South Shetland Islands are all popular camping spots.
Other activities
