Things to do in Antarctica

Vacationing in Antarctica offers many unique and exciting sights. The continent’s pristine climate offers a variety of experiences for adventure seekers. Here are some of the best things to do in Antarctica. 

Exploring Antarctic Wildlife 

One of the fun things to do in Antarctica is to see the unique wildlife. Penguins, seals, and whales are the stars of the show. You can see colonies of penguins up close, seals relaxing on the ice, and sharks breaking through the icy waters. These events create unforgettable memories and fantastic photo opportunities.

Kayaking the icebergs and Zodiac Cruise

For a more adventurous experience, kayaking on the tall glaciers and zodiac sailing are must-dos. Paddling through ice-enclosed, pristine water creates an almost unfitting sense of majesty and solitude. Enjoy a Zodiac cruise with knowledgeable naturalists guiding you and get up close and personal with the ice and wildlife.

Exploring the historical sites

There has been a lot of exploration done in Antarctica. Visits to historic sites such as the cabin of early explorers such as Ernest Shackleton and Robert Falcon Scott offer a glimpse into the past. These enclosures allow first-time travelers to explore the harsh conditions of this frozen land.

Ice skating and snowshoeing

Exploring the continent on foot is another beautiful experience. Guided ice walks, and snowshoe tours take you through some of the most spectacular scenery. 

Camping 

For a truly immersive experience, some tours offer the chance to camp overnight on Antarctic ice. This tour allows you to experience the serene beauty of the continent away from the ship, under the midnight sun or sea stars.

Best Time to Visit Antarctica

Planning a trip to Antarctica involves considering when is the best time to visit Antarctica. Below is some useful information on the climate of Antarctica, which will help you decide when to travel to this beautiful peninsular region.

November through December

Early in the season, Antarctica begins to come out of a long winter. This time of year is ideal for pristine landscapes, with plenty of fresh snow to explore. It also marks the beginning of the breeding season for penguins and other wildlife, providing vibrant scenes of courtship and nest-building.

From January to February

For wildlife lovers, mid-winter is the best time to visit Antarctica. This is when you can see baby penguins frolicking and seal pups playing. The weather is a bit warmer and the ice is beginning to break up, making navigation easier.

March

Late summer is the best time for whale watching, as these majestic creatures are in great numbers. The days start to get shorter, but the sunsets and sunrises are spectacular. It is also a quieter time with fewer tourists, making for a more peaceful experience.

Best Places to Visit in Antarctica

Antarctica is a huge region and has many great tourist spots and attractions. Here is a list of some of the top places to visit in Antarctica during your vacation.

South Shetland Islands

The South Shetland Islands are close to the Antarctic Peninsula and are often the first stop on many trips. They offer large groups of penguins, seals and a variety of wildlife. Deception Island, with its unusual volcano, is one of the attractions.

The Antarctic Ocean

The Antarctic Ocean is the most accessible part of the continent and boasts stunning landscapes, tall glaciers and an abundance of wildlife. It is a top destination for its stunning scenery and opportunities for activities such as kayaking and ice skating.

Lemare Channel 

Known as the "Kodak Gap," Lemaire Channel is one of the most photographed spots in Antarctica. The narrow river is surrounded by high mountains and often filled with glaciers, providing excellent views.

Ross Island

Home to Mount Erebus, the world’s most active volcano, Ross Island is steeped in exploration history. Here, you can see historic huts from earlier expeditions and large colonies of Adélie penguins.

Weddell Sea 

The Weddell Sea is known for its huge glaciers and pristine landscapes. It is rarely visited by tourists and offers a remote and untouched experience. Sea ice considerations make this a challenging but rewarding place.

South Georgia and the Falkland Islands

South Georgia and the Falkland Islands are often included in extended Antarctic trips, providing incredible wildlife experiences. South Georgia has large king penguin colonies and a rich history of whaling.

Travel Tips

Below are the essential Antarctica travel tips to ensure your well-being and safety while traveling in a world of adventure.

Put on the right clothes

The weather in Antarctica can be extreme, so it’s important to pack appropriate clothing. Layering is important to stay warm. Bring thermal base layers, insulated jackets, waterproof outer layers, and warm accessories like hats, gloves and scarves.

Health and Safety

Make sure you are healthy before you travel, as medical facilities are limited. Consider travel insurance that covers emergency evacuation. Follow the safety precautions provided by your tour guide, especially when kayaking or hiking. Keep sea sickness medicine on hand as you cross the Drake's passage; It may be a good remedy if  you are prone to nausea.

Respect the environment

Antarctica is a pristine place, and minimizing your impact is important. Follow wildlife care guidelines, keep your distance from the animals, and avoid disturbing their natural behavior. Leave nothing behind and take all the garbage back with you.

Photography tips

Bring extra batteries and memory cards, as cold weather can quickly cause battery failure. Pack your cameras in a waterproof, airtight bag. Early morning and evening light provide the best conditions for stunning photos.

Explore Ushuaia 

Ushuaia, the gateway to Antarctica, is often called the "end of the world", where about 90% of Antarctic shipping departs. In the summer, this picturesque Argentinian city becomes a bustling tourist destination. Add a few more nights to fully experience its charm and rich activities.

Leisure-Way

Antarctica is a continent that few can claim to have experienced. Isolated in the Southern Ocean and covered by an average thickness of 1.9 kilometers of ice, a trip to Antarctica is unlike any other. This includes necessary planning and analysis; You want to make sure you get the most out of your once-in-a-lifetime trip. So, if you’re ready for the adventure of a lifetime in Antarctica, you’re in the right place. At Leisure, we specialize in customizing your Antarctica adventures to suit your tastes and interests. Whether you want to explore incredible wildlife, immerse yourself in the history of the early explorers, or kayak with whales, we can create the perfect itinerary for you.

Antarctica is a wild and relatively undiscovered continent compared to the rest of the world. However, it is fast becoming the ultimate trip for new travelers. Although there are flights to Antarctica, the only natural way to see Antarctica is by cruise or ship, which often explores the Antarctic Ocean. There are numerous opportunities to get up close and personal with everything Antarctica offers.

Lesiure's Antarctic cruises and tours are the ultimate way to visit the white continent in comfort, safety, and style. Thousands of travelers trust our cruise experts to help them choose the perfect cruise itinerary for Antarctica. Contact us to learn more about our unique packages, and let us create an unforgettable experience tailored just for you.

FAQs

Can tourists go to Antarctica?

Yes, tourists can go to Antarctica. Travel to the continent is usually done through tours and organized cruises, which adhere to strict environmental guidelines in addition to the pristine surroundings.

Can Indian citizens travel to Antarctica?

Yes, Indian citizens can visit Antarctica. They can join a list of tours and cruises from various countries, including Argentina and Chile, which are common departure points for Antarctic expeditions

Can you vacation in Antarctica?

Yes, you can vacation there after finding out hte best time of year to visit Antarctica. While not a traditional holiday destination, organized tours, and luxury cruises offer a unique and memorable travel experience in this remote and beautiful part of the world