Aurora Expeditions has some tips for the best months to explore Antarctica, based on clients’ interests, as the countdown begins for its 2026/27 Antarctic season, which kicks off 24 Oct.
For keen photographers, Oct and Nov are the two months to set sail, when there is heavy pack ice, clean snow, strong contrast and luminous sunsets. It’s also when the penguins return to their colonies to court and nest, and is the only window for camping on the ice, snowshoeing and ski touring.
Suggested voyages over this time include the 22-day Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctic Peninsula, departing Ushuaia 24 Oct.
For adventure seekers, Dec and Jan are the go-to months, when daylight is at its maximum and temperatures are at their warmest (around a toasty 0-1°C).
Over these months, there is more time for Zodiac and kayak excursions, polar plunges are a little more tempting and, as sea ice retreats, more landing sites open up and the Drake Passage usually settles. Agents can recommend departures such as the 23-day Antarctica Complete on 17 Dec, sailing ex Ushuaia.
. . . Wildlife
Wildlife lovers should look to Feb and Mar, when large amounts of krill attract humpback, minke and fin whales and orcas. It’s when penguin chicks take their first swims, and leopard seals may be spotted. Itineraries over this time include the 13-day Spirit of Antarctica: Whale Migration on 13 Mar, ex Ushuaia.
. . . The Line-up
Aurora Expeditions’ 2026/27 season will offer 27 voyages across Greg Mortimer, Sylvia Earle and Douglas Mawson, these exploring the Antarctic Peninsula, Antarctic Circle, Weddell Sea, South Georgia, Falkland Islands, Ross Sea and East Antarctica.
Season highlights include six ‘special edition’ expeditions covering photography, activities, science and women-only exploration, as well as a Ross Sea Odyssey expedition that departs Hobart on 14 Dec. See details HERE.
