Tour to Antarctica - How Ukrainians can visit edge of Earth in 2025

Antarctica is the only continent without a permanent population, capital, army, or politics. Its status is regulated by the Antarctic Treaty, signed in 1959. It prohibits any military activity, the extraction of minerals, and allows only scientific research.

Although there are no visas or border controls, it is impossible to access the continent independently without an organized trip — tourist, research, or volunteer. Here are a few ways to get to Antarctica:

Option 1: Tourism in Antarctica

There are several tour options for travelers, most of which start from Ushuaia, Argentina. You can choose between a sea cruise and a combined air-sea route.

Main options:

• Classic cruise: A journey by ship with landings on the coast

• Fly & Cruise: A flight to King George Island, followed by the sea portion of the journey

• Expedition tour: Participate in observations and mini-field research

For these types of trips, you will need a passport, and depending on the chosen route, a visa for Argentina or Chile. You will also need a medical certificate and a vaccination card. Additionally, travel insurance with extended coverage will be required.

Approximate cost:

• Budget options: from USD 7,000

• Standard tours: USD 10,000 - 15,000

• Premium level: up to USD 25,000

Be aware of the high risks of seasickness, as the Drake Passage, through which the route to Antarctica passes, is considered one of the most turbulent in the world.

There are also restrictions on landings, with no more than 100 people allowed on the shore at a time. It’s also important to pay attention to the tour operators – they must be members of IAATO.

Blue ice covering Lake Friksell in the Transantarctic Mountains (Photo: Wikipedia)

Option 2: Scientific expedition

Ukraine has its own research station, Akademik Vernadskyi, which operates in Antarctica year-round. Each year, a new team for the national expedition is formed.

How to apply:

• Watch for announcements on the NANC website - uac.gov.ua

• Submit your candidate application

• Pass a medical examination, psychological testing, and interview

• If selected, participate in training sessions

Eligible participants include:

• Scientists: meteorologists, biologists, geologists, physicists

• Technical specialists: diesel engineers, IT professionals, electricians, chefs

• Medical personnel (with first aid experience)

Advantages of this trip include not only full funding for the journey but also a monthly salary (around $1,000–1,500). Besides the financial aspects, you'll have the opportunity to participate in a real scientific mission.

However, traveling to Antarctica requires high stress resilience and physical endurance. In addition, this island is covered with ice and snow, so prepare for isolation, cold, and limited comfort.

Akademik Vernadskyi Station (Photo: Wikipedia)

Option 3: Volunteer programs

Some international research stations in Antarctica recruit volunteers and technical staff to support their operations. This can include logistics, kitchen work, environmental monitoring, and more.

Priority in this option is given to citizens of the country that funds the station. The selection process is complex, competition is high, and travel expenses are often only partially covered.

Key points to consider before the trip:

• Essential gear includes thermal underwear, boots, face protection, and gloves.

• A medical check-up is mandatory before the trip. It is important to ensure that there are no chronic health conditions.

• Be aware that there will be little to no communication during the trip. Consider purchasing a satellite phone if needed.

Pay attention to your environmental safety and familiarize yourself with all rules. The most important ones: no littering, no touching animals or plants.

Emperor Penguins in Antarctica (Photo: Wikipedia)

Sources: Wikipedia, Quark Expeditions, Oceanwide Expeditions, Antarctica21, Secretariat of the Antarctic Treaty.