Do not travel to Antarctica due to COVID-19. Exercise increased caution in Antarctica due to environmental hazards posed by extreme and unpredictable weather.

Read the Department of State’s COVID-19 page before you plan any international travel.  

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has not issued a Travel Health Notice for Antarctica due to COVID-19, indicating an unknown level of COVID-19. Your risk of contracting COVID-19 and developing severe symptoms may be lower if you are fully vaccinated with an FDA authorized vaccine. Before planning any international travel, please review the CDC's specific recommendations for vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers.

The U.S. government is unable to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Antarctica as the U.S government does not have an embassy or consulate in Antarctica.

Read the country information page.

If you decide to travel to Antarctica:

• Visit the CDC’s webpage on Travel and COVID-19.
• Obtain comprehensive medical insurance that includes medical evacuation.
• Travel with a professional guide or organization.
• Contact the Department of State’s Office of Ocean and Polar Affairs for information at Antarctica@state.gov.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter.
• U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.

Last Update: Reissued with updates to COVID-19 information.