Visiting Antarctica During the COVID-19 Era: Key Information for Travelers

If you're considering a trip to Antarctica during the ongoing pandemic, here's what you need to know and expect for a safe journey amid COVID-19 restrictions.

Essential Information

Antarctica saw its first COVID-19 cases in late December 2020. While UK scientists followed strict quarantine protocols when they arrived in November 2020, tourism to the continent is still limited.

What’s Available to Visitors

A vast, frozen wilderness at the southernmost tip of the Earth, Antarctica has seen a surge in visitors in recent years. Travelers now cross the Drake Passage from South America to experience its expansive penguin colonies, majestic whales, and elusive seabirds.

Eligibility for Travel

As Antarctica serves as a scientific research zone, specialized teams resumed work on the continent starting in late 2020. Although tourism isn't prohibited, access is mostly by ship, and with many cruises currently suspended, it's extremely difficult to visit at the moment.

What Are the Current Restrictions?

Although Antarctica itself is not bound by COVID-19 restrictions due to its international governance, travelers must comply with the entry requirements of Chile and Argentina, as these countries are the main points of access to the continent.

Chile is currently welcoming both international and local travelers. All visitors must complete a Travelers Affidavit. While a negative PCR or antigen test is no longer required upon arrival, some travelers may still be selected for random testing.

Though not mandatory, a negative PCR test is recommended for visitors while Chile remains under 'Alert Level 1'.

Starting April 14, travelers no longer need to apply for the Chilean 'Pase de Movilidad' (Mobility Pass) through the MeVacuno website to enter the country.

Argentina has reopened its borders to all travelers, who must complete an electronic 'sworn statement' form within 48 hours before their trip. This requirement is waived for residents and nationals.

There are no current vaccination mandates for travelers entering Argentina, but unvaccinated visitors are advised to take a COVID-19 test within 24 hours of arrival.

CDC Travel Advisory for the US

Level Unknown: Ensure your COVID-19 vaccinations are up to date before traveling to Antarctica. If you're not fully vaccinated, it’s advisable to postpone your travel.

Helpful Resources

Chilean Government Entry Affidavit

Official COVID-19 Guidelines from Argentina

Our Most Recent Coverage

Dinogo Travel addresses frequently asked questions about Antarctica and explores what the future may hold for this enigmatic continent. In May, the world’s largest iceberg broke off from Antarctica, and in February, a massive iceberg larger than New York City calved near a UK research station. In December 2020, Antarctica became the last continent to be impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, when 36 individuals tested positive at a Chilean research base. Prior to that, Dinogo Travel reported on life in Antarctica, virus-free, despite the global pandemic.