The remote region of Antarctica is a photographer's paradise. From stunning ice statues and breath-taking reflections to peppy penguins and unique marine mammals there will be something to catch your photographic eye at every turn.
The rugged wilderness landscape is unlike anything you will experience anywhere else in the world. Sprawling icescapes seem to stretch for miles and seeing tabular icebergs towering above you will leave you astounded. Although the wildlife in Antarctica is truly unhabituated, the penguins appear completely unfazed by human presence which enables photographers close-up encounters without disturbing the peace.
When to go?
For photographers, without doubt, the best time to travel is early in the Antarctic season. This is when the landscape and wildlife it at its most pristine and you will be able to capture images showing incredible ice formations and penguins set against a classic white backdrop. Typically this is the time that most of the professional images you see of Antarctica are taken. Travelling later in the season the snow and ice recede leaving grey stone backdrops and the penguin colonies are dirty and muddy. Our when to go section breaks down by month what you can expect to find in Antarctica.
What type of ship to choose?
The best type of ship for photographers exploring the polar regions are small ships with less than 100 passengers on board; in Antarctica only 100 people are allowed to land on shore at any one time so travelling in a smaller group allows everyone to experience longer shore landings at the same time without waiting in turn.
Another important feature of ships travelling to Antarctica is stablisation. Very small ships lack stability making for uncomfortable sea crossings. Ideally choose a ship with a good stabilisation system for comfort during crossings such as the infamous Drake Passage and while navigating inshore waters.
Although there are plenty of exciting shore landings and wildlife encounters in Antarctica, as you are venturing to such a remote location, there are inevitable days at sea throughout your trip. During these journeys it is important you have facilities on board to keep you entertained. Some small ships to Antarctica still manage to fit in an on-board gym, spacious and comfortable communal areas and even sauna and heated plunge pool
Finally, considering the ice class of your ship is essential, especially earlier in the season. Choose ships with high ice classes to ensure close access to iconic wildlife locations and breath-taking landscapes.
The sub-Antarctic Falkland Islands and South Georgia are home to some of the most unique and abundant wildlife on earth. With beaches covered in fur seals, elephant seals, and hundreds of thousands of penguins, it’s one of the most incredible scenes you can experience. Antarctica itself is an incredible icescape with towering icebergs, migratory whales and an array of endemic wildlife.
From 14500 per person
A classic adventure exploring Antarctica and the South Shetland Islands. Spot a wide variety of whales, penguins and gigantic icebergs; as well as spending some time exploring the surprisingly vibrant grasslands of the South Shetland Islands.Classic Antarctica Adventure
From 9500 per person
Follow in the wake of Shackleton and Scott on this once in a lifetime safari to Antarctica and the Ross Sea. Explore untouched, rugged and wild landscapes, all relatively unexplored, in search of penguins, seals and much more.Antarctica Ross Sea Expeditions
From 28500 per person
An incredible journey flying into the Great White Continent and sleeping on the ice in a camp made using aerospace technology. Spend your days hiking and ice-climbing and of course visiting the Emperor Penguin colony in Spring just as the chicks are stepping off their parents' feet. Starting in Cape Town, you fly down to the world’s largest desert, Antarctica; where upon arrival you settle into one of the most luxurious camps you can find in the Polar Regions. Each day of your safari you will be able to choose from a range of activities, taking it as easy as you like, or packing your days with adrenaline-charged adventures. Enjoy trekking, exploring ice tunnels and hikes of the surrounding mountains. Fly to Atka Bay, home to a breeding colony of Emperor penguins, the largest penguin species in the world. These incredible animals stand at up to 1.3 metres in height, and weigh in at up to 45kg, you’ll truly appreciate them as they wander around you. This safari is for those who want to experience the Antarctic continent without compromising on luxury.
From 67500 per person
Important things to consider
An encounter with a whale is one of the most memorable experiences out there, catching eye-contact always brings a sense of understanding between the two species, creating a connection and memory that will last long after your encounter ends.
Read more about Whales
The remote region of Antarctica is a photographer's paradise. From stunning ice statues and breath-taking reflections to peppy penguins and unique marine mammals there will be something to catch your photographic eye at every turn. The rugged wilderness landscape is unlike anything you will experience anywhere else in the world.
Read more about Antarctica Photography
Widely heralded as one of the world’s most understated wildlife sanctuaries, the sheer isolation of this island is just part of its appeal. A wonderland of snow, ice and inquisitive wildlife, South Georgia offers its visitors magnificent and pristine scenery.South Georgia
Read more about South Georgia
Become one of only a few guests to ever stay at the most luxurious camp in the Polar Regions. The camp has a very easy and friendly feel to it and is run to strict environmental guidelines to minimise the impact on the environment. Accessible only by private charter flight, and with space for just 12 guests, Whichaway Camp is a once in a lifetime experience.
Read more about Whichaway Camp
You hear them before you see them. A loud and almost brash call that alone would be shrill enough to make you jump. As the Emperor penguins call out to each other it sounds almost like a welcoming song
Read more about the migration
Set parallel to the Antarctic Peninsula, across a stretch of ocean of 540 kilometres, this archipelago is formed of some 20 islands and islets, first discovered in February 1819.
Read more about the South Shetland IslandsWhy NWS is the leading choice for photographers
We are the travel outfitter of choice for many professional wildlife photographers because we understand what they need from a trip. We have access to the very best Antarctic departures across a range of leading ships and will work with you to ensure you are on the best possible expedition for your requirements.
