Antarctica: Frequently Asked Questions

In theory, any of the world's time zones could be used in Antarctica. When Hurtigruten goes to Antarctica, we sail from South America and operate with CET (Central European Time) -5 hrs. This time difference is in operation during the South American summer season.

Argentinian pesos are used in Argentina, Chilean pesos are used in Chile. US dollars may be exchanged into local currency at either banks or Money Exchange kiosks, at the open market exchange rate of the day. Some shops might accept US cash, though this is not a common practice. You can also withdraw cash from ATM's using your credit card and PIN code.

 

When visiting the Falkland Islands, local pounds (FIP) are used as well as pound sterling. When landing in Antarctica, some bases do accept USD cash only. In Port Lockroy, the following currencies are accepted: GBP, USD, Euro, and major credit cards (for purchases above 100 USD).

For visitors this fact comes with a set of obligations – the most important and general is to leave no traces behind. The Antarctic Treaty and IAATO prohibiting more than 100 people to be ashore simultaneously strictly regulate human traffic in Antarctica. All guests will be given instructions on how to behave when on shore in Antarctica. Antarctic Treaty Recommendation XVIII-1 and IAATO guidelines are mandatory and must be followed.

 

Apart from trips included in the program, we offer a selection of additional excursions. Most excursions can be booked on beforehand or on board. Pre and post excursions in Buenos Aires & Ushuaia can also be booked at Hospitality desks at Emperador Hotel and NH City Hotel Buenos Aires subject to availability.

 

All excursions are subject to availability. Unfortunately, excursions are not adapted for handicapped travelers.

List of possible landing sites in Antarctica

According to IAATO regulations and to avoid any transmission of diseases to the vulnerable eco-system in Antarctica, we ask our travellers to bring clean clothes to wear ashore. For more information, see equipment list.

Yes. Please ensure that your passport is valid for more than six months after you return to your home country. Remember to check if you require a visa.

In case of a medical emergency in Antarctica the only method of evacuation is by plane to the city of Punta Arenas, Chile, as there are no hospital facilities in Antarctica. This is very expensive and dependent on favorable weather conditions. Therefore, comprehensive travel/health insurance policy that also covers medical evacuation is obligatory.

 

IAATO MEDICAL QUESTIONNAIRE: To comply with IAATO and Hurtigruten AS regulations all guests must have completed the IAATO medical questionnaire including a confirmation of fitness to travel from your doctor. The completed questionnaire must be present ed to the ship’s doctor upon embarkation. Guests without the completed questionnaire will be refused embarkation.