Antarctica is home to some of the world’s most unique wildlife and experiences on earth.
Have a read below to find out some of our favourite Antarctic experiences.
Spend time with penguins
The most popular thing to do is spend time with the penguins; you can walk among massive colonies and even see penguin chicks if you go at the right time of year. There are 6 different penguin species found across Antarctica, from the Falkland Islands and South Georgia, to the Antarctic Peninsula itself.
Zodiac Exploration
Cuising in a zodiac, a small boat with room for 8 – 12 guests, means you can explore some of Antarctica’s most narrow passages and get up close to some incredible icebergs. This is also a great way to spot seals and sea lions. Zofdiacs are often used to get you from your expedition ship to the land for walking activities as well.
Swimming at Deception Bay
Deception Bay is a prime site for swimming in Antarctica. This site, actually the caldera of a volcano, is generally warmer and you can find the world’s largest chin strap penguin colony here.
Diving & Snorkelling
As you can imagine, diving or snorkelling in Antarctica is unlike doing it anywhere else in the world. To dive you must be qualified and experienced in cold water diving. No fears if you are not qualified, you can snorkel the icy clear waters instead. As well as some incredible marine life, sometimes you can even dive or snorkel with fur seals, the icebergs and landscapes look equally as impressive from under the water.
Kayaking & Camping
Within the safer locations, both of these activities are available on certain itineraries. Kayaking offers a more personal encounter with the Antarctic land, rather than being in a zodiac with 7 – 11 other people. Camping allows you to really get involved with the area, sleeping out in the true icy wilderness among the amazing wildlife.
Photography & Natural Beauty
Antarctica is home to some of the most outstanding beauty you will see, perfect for photography. Places such as the Lemai Channel, where the ice=strewn mountain and icebergs reflect perfectly in calm waters will give you some of the best photos of your trip. Of course, the wildlife is great for photographing too. Specialist photo tours may also be available where on-board mentors will spend time with you, improving your technique through one-to-one help and workshops, ensuring you get the best shots possible during your trip.
Send yourself a postcard
Unbelievably there are post offices in Antarctica. The post office and museum at Port Lockroy sits among a big penguin colony and stunning icebergs. From here you can post yourself or a loved one a postcard, don’t expect it to be there when you return though as it can take about 3 months to arrive.
Ski-trekking in South Georgia
This adventure for true explorers follows the historic footsteps of Shackleton across the island from 1916. Along with mountain guides you will attempt to traverse South Georgia, unsupported and self-sufficient. This ski-trek covers between 40 and 50 kilometres.
Find out more on wildlife in Antarctica.