Argentina is a bicontinental territory, comprising part of the American continent and part of the Antarctic continent. Ushuaia, the capital of Tierra del Fuego, Antártida e Islas del Atlántico Sur is recognized as the most active gateway to the white continent, as hundreds of tourist cruises dock at its port during the Antarctic tourism season, which begins in October and ends in mid-April. To preserve the environment and cooperation on this continent, the Antarctic Treaty was signed in 1959, which strictly determines and regulates all activities that can be carried out there. No civilians live here permanently, but scientific, technical, military, and teaching personnel are stationed at the various Antarctic Bases, conducting scientific research and promoting international cooperation. The Argentine Antarctic Sector extends between the meridians 74° W and 25° W, the parallel 60° S, and the South Pole. The Argentine Republic administers thirteen (13) bases in Antarctica, seven (7) of them are permanent -operational all year round- and the rest are temporary -operational only in summer.
Datos importantes
Filming in Antarctica is not a simple task. Due to logistical issues, it's impossible to consider a traditional fiction shoot with large technical teams taking place on the white continent. However, it is possible to consider filming that requires small teams. It's also important to keep in mind that the season when filming can be done is during the summer, when temperatures are not so harsh. To reach Antarctica, the ideal option is to rent a private sailboat departing from the port of Ushuaia, as it will provide complete freedom of movement. It's important to note that these rentals are extremely expensive and their demand must be anticipated well in advance, as they often have trips scheduled one or two years ahead. Another option to reach the white continent is aboard one of the official missions that travel to Antarctica fulfilling military or scientific functions. In this case, it must be taken into account that it is not easy to secure a spot, as these missions are highly sought after. Achieving this can take several years, and if successful, it's unlikely to secure a place for more than one or two people. Furthermore, the trip will be conditional on the mission's itinerary and schedule. Finally, one might consider the possibility of boarding a tourist cruise departing from Ushuaia and touring Antarctica. In this case, the filming possibilities will also be tied to the cruise's itinerary, but it may be the most accessible way to arrive. In all cases, it is recommended to contact the National Antarctic Directorate and/or the Argentine Antarctic Institute, both of which depend on the Argentine Foreign Ministry. In summary, filming in Antarctica is a difficult but not impossible task. Achieving it depends on having a solid production plan and not getting discouraged along the way.