Frequently Asked Questions

Most travellers will first fly to the South American city of Ushuaia, where most Antarctic cruises depart from. However, there are a select number of cruises that depart each year from New Zealand and travel to the region of East Antarctica and the sub-Antarctic Islands.

The number of people on board varies depending on the ship but the majority of our ships carry between 90-180 passengers. Small ship expeditions are ideal for maximising your time off the ship and on the ice, ideally with two excursions each day. 

Most ships depart from South America (Ushuaia, Argentina or Punta Arenas, Chile), so you can also combine your cruise with a summertime adventure in Patagonia, Buenos Aires, or Santiago. However, some Antarctic ships depart from New Zealand or Australia. 

Chimu Adventures are the Antarctica specialists, an Associate Member of the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators, and a Certified B Corporation. We offer the largest range of vessels, an experienced, expert team of Polar guides, and comprehensive, flexible itineraries, tailoring each itinerary to make your Antarctic cruise unique and unforgettable.

Shore landings are included in all of our Antarctic cruises and two shore or zodiac excursions are usually planned per day, weather conditions permitting.

The sub-Antarctic islands are a true paradise for wildlife! The wildlife observed will vary based on the islands visited, the time of year, and the weather conditions, but commonly-seen species include elephant seals, albatross, and many penguin species, including Gentoo, rockhopper, Snares crested, and the yellow-eyed penguin. You may also see fur seals, whales, and shearwaters.
 

Most ships offer Wi-Fi connectivity for an additional fee. Due to Antarctica's remote location, mobile phone service is generally unavailable. 

Chimu Adventures is a certified B Corporation and members of IAATO, the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators. We believe in reducing our footprint as we travel and protecting our environment. In Antarctica, always follow biosecurity protocals, avoid bringing single use plastics, ensure you abide by al wildlife distance guidelines, and learn from your expedition guides about the issues impacting Antarctica, including ways you can give back once you return home. 

Your Antarctic expedition cruise offers many activities, including twice-daily (weather permitting) zodiac cruises and shore landings, wildlife watching, photography opportunities, onboard lectures, and citizen science programs. Optional activities, available at an additional cost, may include kayaking, ice camping, and paddle boarding

Yes! Each season, we have many solo travellers of all ages and genders travel with us to Antarctica. It's easy to make friends over afternoon tea or a casual cocktail in the ship's lounge, so most travellers who arrive alone quickly make friends. Some ships also reserve restaurant seating for solo travellers who would like to dine with others.

At times, the Drake Passage can produce turbulent seas, but our vessels are built for maximum stability and comfort to ensure that even in rough conditions, sea and motion sickness are kept to a minimum at all times. We also have a host of services and facilities available should symptoms befall you. It also might be possible to fly over the Drake Passage, so speak to one of our Destination Specialists for more information.

All of our tours are 100% tried and tested to ensure that when you travel with us, you’re doing so in a controlled and safe environment with trained experts. We consistently monitor weather conditions and will always provide you with the best possible adventure without risk of injury to you or the vessel. While some activities may need to be rescheduled or cancelled due to weather, every effort is made to have a contingency plan should such conditions become a reality during your expeditions. We’ve been the experts in Antarctic travel for over 20 years and use our vast experience and knowledge when picking the vessels we sell to provide you with an adventure that’s unforgettable for all the right reasons.

Chimu has access to a wide range of Polar expedition vessels and itineraries, so if you don’t see a trip that catches your eye, please give us a call, email, or chat with us. We have access to many more Antarctica deals than the ones on our website, so we’re happy to do the work to travel to Antarctica for the best possible price. We can include international flights, insurance, transfers, and everything else you need for your journey.

The Antarctic season runs during the Southern Hemisphere summer months, from late October through March. Any time during the season will bring amazing opportunities to see icebergs, wildlife, and incredible landscape and glacier views. 

Chimu specialise in small-ship Polar cruising and work with a range of handpicked vessels that take fewer than 200 passengers. Smaller ships offer more opportunities to get off the ship and on the ice, taking part in twice-daily shore landings and optional activities like kayaking and ice camping. We have over 20 years of Antarctic experience, so our Destination Specialists are here to help you find the perfect Antarctic ship for your schedule, budget, and interests. 

The Antarctic expedition cruise season runs from late October through March, but each month of the season is amazing for wildlife, icebergs, and landscapes—you can’t go wrong, no matter when you travel.

Expedition cruises to South Georgia and the Falklands depart in the Southern Hemisphere summer months, generally between late October through March. This time of year brings mild weather, longer days, and lots of wildlife activity. 

The team at Chimu Adventures are true Antarctic experts, with over 20 years of experience in the Polar regions. We can help you select the perfecrt small-ship expedition ship, taking into account your schedule, budget, interests, and preferred style of travel. 

Luxury cruises are modern, purpose-built vessels designed to offer five-star luxury to guests. Imagine fine dining, champagne, a decadent onboard spa, and turndown service each night. Some ships also offer butler service, scenic helicopter flights, and sleek architectural designs, matched by chic interior styling. Alongside your luxury experience, you’ll still enjoy twice-daily excursions and lots of expedition activities, like citizen science programs and shore landings. 

Your Antarctic expedition cruise fare includes everything you need for an immersive experience, including your cabin, all meals, twice-daily excursions, citizen science programs, and the support of your experienced expedition team. Some ships also include alcoholic beverages with dinner and may also include a jacket that’s yours to keep. 

Arctic cruises sail within Northern Hemisphere summer, so the best months to visit the Arctic are between late May and September. 

Depending on the region being visited, Arctic cruises depart from a range of locations, including Reykjavic, Oslo, Copenhagen, and Longyearbyen. 

Planning an Arctic cruise can be complex, with many destinations and ships to choose from. The experienced team at Chimu is here to help you get started. We have access to a wide range of Arctic cruises, many more than listed on our website, so please reach out and we can talk you through the best choices for your interests, schedule, and budget. We can also package together everything else you need, including international flights, transfers, travel insurance, and hotel stays before or after your cruise.

Greenland expedition cruises operate within the Northern Hemisphere's summer months, generally from June until September. 

On your Arctic expedition cruise, you’ll enjoy the cool summer temperatures, generally not as cold as you may have experienced in Antarctica. As a rough guide, daytime temperatures may range from 0°C/32°F up to highs of 10-19°C/50-66°F. Layers are key when it comes to packing for your Arctic expedition cruise, allowing you to adjust throughout the day. 
 

Chimu Adventures is a certified B Corporation and true Arctic experts. We offer a large range of vessels, an experienced, expert team of travel enthusiasts, and comprehensive, flexible itineraries, helping each traveller find not only the perfect cruise for the budget, schedule, and interests, but we can also arrange flights, insurance, transfers, and any additional hotel stays before or after your cruise. 

Arctic expedition cruises follow different itineraries, but some of the most popular routes visit Svalbard, Iceland, Canada's Northwest Passage, and Greenland. 

Chimu specialise in small-ship cruising to the Arctic, with each ship taking fewer than 200 passengers. This allows for a more immersive experience and also a reduced environmental impact.

It's always possible to see polar bears in the Arctic, but never a certainty. A Svalbard cruise often provides good chances for polar bear viewing, but there are very strict guidelines in place to ensure ships keep a safe distance from the animals.

Arctic cruises range in duration from around 7-21 nights, depending on the destinations visited. 

Seeing the Northern Lights is always a possibility on Arctic cruises, espeically in September on clear nights. 

Your Arctic cruise will vary, based on your destinations, but often Arctic cruises include lots of wildlife, bird, and whale viewing, visits to local Inuit communities and fishing villages, and zodiac excursions to view icebergs, glaciers, and fjords. 

Most ships offer Wi-Fi connectivity for an additional fee. Due to the Arctic's remote location, mobile phone service may not always be available. 

Meals are of a very high standard on Arctic cruises. Menus are prepared by an executive chef and may include hot and cold breakfast, a buffet lunch, and a three-course dinner, but can cater to all dietary requirements. Some ships include beer, wine, and soft drinks with dinner.

While wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, the remote and untouched landscapes of Svalbard are usually a reliable place to observe many Arctic species. It’s home to Svalbard reindeer, Arctic foxes, colonies of walruses, whales, seals, thousands of migratory seabirds nesting on coastal cliffs and a polar bear colony.

The Northwest Passage is a historic maritime sea route that connects the Atlantic and Pacific via the Arctic, traversing through parts of northern Canada. A Northwest Passage expedition cruise offers unique glaciers and landscapes, diverse wildlife sightings, and meaningful visits to Inuit communities. 

A high level of fitness is not necessary for Arctic cruise passengers, but you need to be in good health as although there is generally a doctor on board the ship, you may be a long way from any other medical assistance. The majority of activities are focused around shore excursions and zodiac cruising and so you need to be able to climb into and out of the inflatable zodiacs from both the ship and the shore. On shore landings you may need to negotiate uneven and slippery ground. Shore excursions generally involve some walking, but we can provide more details about travel to specific Arctic destinations. 

Yes, Arctic cruising is very popular with solo travellers. With most ships taking less than 200 passengers, it's easy to meet people onboard at the welcoming evening, lectures, or during meals. 

Planning an Arctic cruise can be complex, with many destinations to choose from. We know budget is an important factor when planning a cruise, so let the experienced team at Chimu help you get started. We have access to a wide range of Arctic deals, many more than listed on our website, so please reach out and we can talk you through the best choices for your budget and schedule. 

A luxury expedition cruise is the ideal way to experience the Arctic in comfort and style. We can help you find the perfect luxury Arctic cruise, featuring balconies or upgraded cabin types, fine dining, and onboard spa and wellness facilities.

A vast continent like South America can be overwhelming, so we recommend starting with a few key regions. Many first-time visitors may spend anywhere from 1-3 weeks, but it all comes down to where you want to go and your schedule. You can also easily add on a few days before or after your Antarctica cruise. 

The dry season months of April through October is the best time to visit Machu Picchu. However, it is open year-round, with the exception of the Inca Trail, which often closes in February each year for essential maintainance. 

Chimu are South American experts with over 20 years’ experience in the region. Our Signature South America itineraries have been refined, simplified, and perfected our itineraries over two decades to give you the ultimate experience in each location, including not just major highlights but also smaller, locally owned attractions and markets. Each trip is a blend of guided and independent travel, with local English-speaking staff on the ground in each location to help whenever needed. 

November through March is the best time to visit Patagonia, with long days and warm weather ideal for hiking, sightseeing, or cruising the fjords. While some areas also offer skiing in the Southern Hemisphere winter months, many lodges and tourism operators shut down in the off-season.

Depending on your nationality, a visa may be required to visit some countries in South America. Your Chimu Destination Specialist can provide more information at the time of booking. 

We recommend that you visit your doctor or a traveller’s medical centre for current information specific to those countries that you will be travelling through, as each country has its own requirements for vaccinations.
As a general guide, you may need vaccines for yellow fever, especially for jungle areas, hepatitis – both A and B, typhoid, diphtheria, cholera, and tetanus. 

Most Australian travellers fly to South America via Santiago, with several airlines offering direct flights from major capital cities. Santiago is a major hub that makes it easy to connect to your final destination and you'll find English speaking staff who can assist with your transfers. 

Yes, Chimu requires all travellers to have comprehensive travel insurance. This is essential for your peace of mind as well, ensuring you won't be out of pocket if you need emergency medical care, have issues with lost luggage or cancelled flights, or if any personal items are damaged. 

Yes, it's easy to add on travel before or after your Antarctic cruise. Popular South American destinations with Antarctic cruise travellers include Buenos Aires, Patagonia, Iguazu Falls, and the Galapagos Islands, to name a few. 

Many travellers and photographers, are drawn to the South American continent for its incredibly unique wildlife. Where you decide to visit will depend on what wildlife you hope to see, but in general, some of the best South American destinations for wildlife include the Amazon, the Galapagos Islands, the Brazilian Pantanal. South America is also a dream for bird watching, in particular places like Colca Canyon, the Cloud Forests of Ecuador, and the Amazon River.

The Galapagos Islands are renowned for their wildlife with vast numbers and varieties found on the islands and in the waters surrounding the islands. There are whales, sharks, dolphins, sea lions and fur seals, bird species too numerous to mention ranging from blue-footed boobies and frigatebirds to penguins and hummingbirds, giant tortoises, turtles, iguanas and lava lizards. Some species are seen only at certain times of the year.

Spanish is the most commonly spoken language in South America, so it helps to know a little bit. However, in the major tourist areas, you can almost always find English-speaking assistance. Your local Chimu guides will also be fluent in English and will be there to assist.

Chimu’s Signature South America itineraries offer the perfect blend of independent and supported travel, including your accommodation, transfers, internal flights, as specified, and a range of different tours and excursions with local English-speaking guides, depending on the itinerary. Some meals are included as well. 

Yes, you can easily find Wi-Fi in most major areas in South America, including your hotels. In some remote destinations, such as the Galapagos, internet connectivity may be limited or available as an additional charge. 

Tipping guidelines vary from country to country, but it's always appreciated. Your Chimu Destination Specialist can provide specific information regarding tipping, depending on your destinations. 

Chimu Adventures is a certified B Corporation and a strong believer in supporting the local communities we visit. We integrate off-the-beaten path experiences, such as guided walks, local artisan visits, rural excursions, and family-style dinners to enrich trips, support local communities and help spread tourism more equitably. We also work with local guides and locally sourced products in Latin America to deliver authentic knowledge, cultural insights, and high-quality experiences to our travellers. 

The vast continent of South America has so much to offer travellers! If you love the vibrant energy of big cities, check out Buenos Aires, Rio, or Santiago. Some of the top destination for wildlife include the Amazon River, the Pantanal, and the Galapagos Islands. For history and culture, you might enjoy Machu Picchu, Cusco, Quito, and Cartagena. 

The level of fitness needed will depend on the South America tour that you choose to take in terms of countries to be visited and the types of activities to be included in your itinerary. Many parts of South America are at altitudes above 2000 metres, where there is a risk of altitude sickness. Altitude sickness effects everyone differently and usually has nothing to do with your general fitness level, but we highly recommend acclimatizing at altitude before taking strenuous treks or walks. However, it's definitely possible to experience South America and have an amazing time, no matter your fitness levels. 

Most South American countries recognise that tourism plays an important part in their economies and governments have taken great steps in the last few years to change South America’s poor security image. You will find a strong police presence in the towns, cities and sites most frequently visited by tourists. However, always minimise security risks with a few basic precautions, such as leaving valuables at home, keep your bag and camera securely attached, use only taxis with official identification, and avoid visiting remote areas on your own.

There is a risk of altitude sickness in places like the Andes Mountains, Lake Titicaca, and the Atacama Desert. Altitude sickness affects everyone differently and usually has nothing to do with your general fitness level, but we highly recommend acclimatising at altitude before taking strenuous treks or walks. If you do plan to include a trek whilst you are in Peru, particularly in the Andean highlands, then the fitter you are the easier you will find the trek.