Do I need a visa or entry permit for South Georgia?
South Georgia requires an Entry Permit , which is not the same thing as a tourist visa. The electronic scheme started on 1 August 2025 and applies to all visitors unless they fall within a narrow official exemption. For a normal expedition cruise passenger, your operator or travel agent can usually
When should I apply for the South Georgia entry permit?
At least 8 days before your intended arrival date. Miss that and a £50 late fee applies, and applications submitted 3 days or fewer before arrival will not be approved at all. Because Antarctic itineraries move with weather and ice, coordinate the timing with your cruise operator rather than working
Do I need a permit to travel to Antarctica on a cruise?
Not personally, on a standard organised expedition cruise. The operator handles the voyage’s advance notifications, environmental approvals and operating authorisations. That doesn’t mean Antarctic tourism is unregulated. It runs under the Antarctic Treaty System and the national laws implementing i
How long does my passport need to be valid for an Antarctica cruise?
There’s no single Antarctica-wide six month rule, but you have to satisfy several standards at once. South Georgia requires validity through your permit period plus 4 weeks. Falkland Customs and Immigration recommends at least 6 months remaining at entry. Your gateway countries, your airline and you
What should I pack for an Antarctica expedition cruise?
Pack for wind, water and changing activity levels rather than for constant extreme cold. Your excursion system is a moisture-wicking base layer, one or two adjustable midlayers, and a genuinely waterproof and windproof outer layer. Waterproof pants are the one item to treat as mandatory unless your
What should I not pack for an Antarctica cruise?
Leave behind cotton as your main excursion layer, water-resistant pants standing in for waterproof ones, untested footwear, and bulky formal clothing the ship doesn’t ask for. Also skip loose accessories that blow away, unnecessary single-use plastic, and any equipment you can’t clean thoroughly for
Do I really need waterproof pants for an Antarctica cruise?
Yes, and this is the item to get right. Waterproof pants may be required for every Zodiac operation and landing, and they handle sea spray, rain, wet snow, damp Zodiac tubes and wet landings. Water-resistant hiking pants and most softshells are not a substitute. Look for the word waterproof rather t
Do I need sunscreen on an Antarctica cruise?
Yes, and more than you’d think. Cold weather does nothing to reduce ultraviolet exposure, and sunlight reflects hard off snow, ice and water, so you’re getting it from below as well as above. Cover face, ears, neck and the underside of your nose, and reapply on long outings. We’d suggest SPF 50 on t
Do I need polarised sunglasses or ski goggles in Antarctica?
Polarised sunglasses with strong UV protection are essential. Snow, ice and water throw an enormous amount of glare and the bright conditions run for many hours in the polar summer. Use a retainer so they survive the wind and Zodiac boarding, and bring a spare if you depend on prescription lenses. S
Do I need different clothing for South Georgia and the Falklands?
Same waterproof and layered system, but expect more walking and rougher ground. South Georgia and the Falklands can be windy, wet, muddy and uneven, with longer hikes than a typical Peninsula landing. Reliable traction, calf-high socks, proper waterproof pants and a daypack all matter more here.