Where you will visit will depend on where and how you set off from your starting point in South America. The ice channels of the Antarctic Peninsula, the South Shetland Islands, filled with rookeries of penguins, and across the Drake Passage are amongst some of the most common stops along the expedition route and are amongst the just some of the highlights of Antarctica's attractions. The Falkland Islands and South Georgia, long off the radar for travellers, are now also increasingly popular for their uniquely pristine beauty.

This region has never been so accessible to explore, with travel to the region having developed a lot over the last 20 years.

NEXT STEPS

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Adelie Penguins: These penguins are very cute, found on the Antarctic mainland and the South Shetlands. 

Albatross: Black browed albatross can be found on the Falkland Islands, wandering albatross can be found on Prion Island. 

Chinstrap Penguins: Chinstraps can be see in close proximity on the South Orkney Islands. 

Emperor Penguins: These enormous feathered friends can be seen only on the Antarctic Peninsula on very special safaris. 

Gentoo Penguins: Gentoo penguins are playful, often found surfing in the waters of the Falkland Islands and South Georgia. 

Ice Formations: The best ice formations are found around the mainland in places such as Paradise, and off the coast of South Georgia. 

King Penguins: The largest colony of king penguins can be found on Salisbury Plains, South Georgia.

Rockhoppers: Curious looking birds, these inquisitive chaps are best seen on the Falkland Islands. 

Seals: Elephant seals and fur seals can be found on most landings (if not all) on South Georgia.

Shackleton’s Grave: The grave of famous explorer, Shackleton, is found in Grytviken, South Georgia.