Antarctica is the ultimate travel trophy, and while it doesn’t have a government to issue official visas or entry stamps, that doesn’t mean you can’t get a souvenir for your passport. If you’re heading to the White Continent, here’s how you can get a coveted Antarctica passport stamp.
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Ushuaia: The Gateway to Antarctica
For most travellers, Ushuaia (Argentina) is the jumping-off point for an Antarctic adventure. Known as the southernmost city in the world, this Patagonian town is not just a departure point but a destination in its own right. Before embarking on your journey, take time to explore Tierra del Fuego National Park, ride the End of the World Train, or visit the Museo del Fin del Mundo to learn about the region’s indigenous and exploration history.
Before you even set sail, you can get a unique Antarctica-themed passport stamp at the Tourist Information Office in Ushuaia. Located near the port, this office offers special stamps featuring penguins, maps, or other Antarctic motifs – as well as stamps claiming Argentina’s sovereignty on the Falklands islands. It’s a fun way to mark the beginning of your journey south.
Port Lockroy: The Most Famous Antarctica Passport Stamp
One of the best-known places to get an Antarctica passport stamp is Port Lockroy, a historic British base on Goudier Island. Operated by the UK Antarctic Heritage Trust, this former research station now serves as a museum and post office, where you can send postcards from Antarctica. They also offer an official British Antarctic Territory passport stamp, making it a must-visit stop for passport collectors.
If your itinerary includes Port Lockroy, as is the case for many of our Antarctica cruises, make sure to bring your passport ashore. As of 2025, the base is expected to remain open to visitors during the summer season, but accessibility depends on weather conditions and your expedition operator.
Sending a Postcard from Antarctica
One of the coolest souvenirs from Port Lockroy is a postcard sent from the world’s southernmost post office. You can purchase postcards and stamps at the base, and they will be postmarked from Antarctica. However, due to the extreme remoteness, delivery can take weeks or even months, depending on when supply ships can transport the mail back to civilization. If you want to send a postcard to yourself or loved ones, make sure to write it on the spot and drop it in the designated mailbox before leaving!
Other Potential Stamping Locations
While Port Lockroy is the most famous, other research bases occasionally offer passport stamps. Some Chilean and Argentinian stations, such as Base Esperanza or González Videla Base, and America’s Palmer Station may stamp your passport if they are open to tourists during your visit. However, access is never guaranteed, so consider Port Lockroy your safest bet for an Antarctica passport stamp. Weather conditions and operational status can affect your ability to get your passport stamped.
The other bases are worth a visit, though. Base Esperanza is a permanent, year-round Argentine research station and the only civilian settlement in Antarctica. It features various facilities, including a museum, church, restaurant, shop, and public phone booth. The base is notable for being the birthplace of Emilio Palma, the first person born in Antarctica.
Disclaimer about Novelty Stamps
These stamps are notofficial entry stamps and may cause issues at some border controls. Some immigration officers may view them as unofficial markings in your passport, so it’s best to request the stamp on a spare page or carry a separate travel notebook if you’re concerned about potential complications.
If you’re planning an Antarctic adventure in 2025, don’t miss the chance to add one of the world’s rarest and most exciting passport stamps to your collection!
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