MileHacker Logo
Digital & Print Resources

Digital Resources

Essential Apps

  • Weather Apps

    AccuWeather, The Weather Channel for transit cities.

  • Offline Maps

    Google Maps or Maps.me for Ushuaia or Punta Arenas.

  • Compass/GPS

    General orientation tool on your device.

  • Currency Converter

    Manage expenses in local pesos.

  • Connectivity Apps

    Stay connected during transit periods.

Useful Websites

Print Resources

Recommended Guidebooks

Good reference books on polar regions and their wildlife.

Comprehensive Field Guides

Detailed guides for identifying birds and mammals.

Historical Accounts

Reading about Antarctic history deepens your journey.

Pre-Trip Insights

Essential Knowledge

  • Antarctic Wildlife
  • Antarctic History
  • IAATO Guidelines
  • Watch Documentaries

Further Preparation

  • Home Preparation
  • Financial Readiness
  • Physical Readiness
  • Emergency Contacts

Arrival & Onboard Details

First Steps

  • Clear immigration and customs.
  • Transfer to pre-booked accommodation.
  • Attend cruise pre-departure briefing.
  • Last-minute shopping.

Onboard Life

  • Ship amenities exploration.
  • Daily expedition briefings.
  • Meet expedition team.
  • Deck walks and wildlife spotting.

Preparation Tips

  • Familiarize with city area.
  • Confirm embarkation details.
  • Withdraw local currency.
  • Consider a local SIM card.

Safety & Travel Logistics

Emergency & Medical Information

Emergency Numbers

  • Onboard: Ship medical staff and leader.
  • Argentina (Ushuaia): Police: 101, Ambulance: 107.
  • Chile (Punta Arenas): Police: 133, Ambulance: 131.
  • Embassy/Consulate: Keep contact for your nationality.

Medical Facilities

  • Hospitals and clinics in Ushuaia/Punta Arenas.
  • Limited medical facilities on ships.
  • Prescription medications in original containers.
  • Doctor visit before travel recommended.

Lost Document Procedures

  • Immediately contact your embassy/consulate.
  • Digital and physical copies of documents.
  • Passport valid 6 months beyond return.
  • Bank/credit card companies notification.

Arrival Logistics

First Steps

  • Clear immigration and customs.
  • Transfer to pre-booked accommodation.
  • Attend cruise pre-departure briefing.

Orientation Strategies

  • Familiarize yourself with the city.
  • Confirm ship embarkation details.
  • Withdraw local currency.

Departure Checklist

Souvenirs & Shipping

  • Purchase desired souvenirs.
  • Inquire about shipping options.
  • Understand VAT refund procedures.

Pre-Departure Timing

  • Follow disembarkation schedule precisely.
  • Arrive early at the airport.
  • Prepare for your return trip.

Important Reminders

Pre-Trip Actions

  1. Pack using the layering strategy.
  2. Prepare digital and physical document copies.
  3. Charge all electronics fully.
  4. Inform emergency contacts of your itinerary.
  5. Notify bank and credit card companies.

On-Site Actions

  1. Follow expedition guide instructions.
  2. Stay hydrated and nourished.
  3. Observe wildlife from a distance.
  4. Protect the environment.
  5. Engage with local experiences.

Preparation Highlights

Insurance First

Secure comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation.

Book Early

Antarctic expedition cruises sell out far in advance.

Health Matters

Consult your doctor for vaccinations and health checks.

Safety Protocols

Follow all instructions from your expedition ship's crew in the event of any natural hazards (e.g., severe weather, unexpected ice conditions).

Further Exploration & Learning

Visual Journeys

Nature Documentaries

  • Our Planet: Frozen Worlds

    Features incredible footage of Antarctic wildlife.

  • Frozen Planet

    A comprehensive series on the polar regions.

  • March of the Penguins

    A beloved documentary focusing on Emperor penguins.

Human Stories

  • Antarctica: A Year on Ice

    Offers a glimpse into life at research stations.

  • Polar Exploration Films

    Inspiring accounts of human endurance in the extreme south.

  • Expedition Logs & Diaries

    Historical footage and firsthand accounts.

Cultural Engagement

Music & Art

Consider classical pieces that evoke grand landscapes or serene environments.

Online Communities

Join groups dedicated to polar travel, ask questions, share experiences.

Language Learning

Learn basic Spanish for transit cities.

Language Skills

Spanish for Transit

  • Basic phrases
  • Greetings
  • Numbers
  • Directions

Learning Tools

  • Duolingo app
  • Babbel lessons
  • Phrasebooks
  • Online courses

Deepening Knowledge

Antarctic Ecology

  • Wildlife behavior
  • Ecosystems
  • Climate science
  • Conservation efforts

Expedition Insights

  • Onboard lectures
  • Zodiac excursions
  • Landing sites
  • Photography tips

Enhance Your Journey

Engaging with resources before your trip deepens your appreciation for Antarctica.