What are the entry requirements for Antarctica and the Arctic?

We oftentimes get asked about visa, insurances and entry fees for Polar Expedition Cruises.

Passports: Ensure you have a valid passport with at least six months' validity beyond your return date. Your passport details are crucial for trip preparations, and accuracy is key—make sure your booking information matches your passport exactly. For peace of mind, carry a copy of your passport's photo page and leave another copy with trusted contacts at home.

Visas: When embarking on Polar Expedition Cruises, departure usually occurs from countries like Chile or Argentina for Antarctica, and from Denmark, Iceland, Canada, etc., for the Arctic. Meeting the entry requirements of these countries is crucial. If extending your journey and visiting additional destinations, research visa requirements for each location. To find out if you need a visa for a country, we recommend https://www.passportindex.org/

Entrance Fees and Taxes: While there are no specific entrance fees for Antarctica or the Arctic, note potential small departure taxes or airport fees at domestic airports within South America, typically ranging from US$5-10 per person. Expect these fees mainly at major airports like El Calafate, Ushuaia, and Lima.

Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for all Polar Expedition Cruises. Your policy should cover medical expenses, hospitalization, evacuation, repatriation, and emergency travel. Carefully review coverage limits and claims procedures in your policy. Considering trip cancellation insurance is advisable to safeguard against potential cancellation fees. Find more detailed information about this crucial aspect here.