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Antarctica Travel Guide for Your Trip-of-a-Lifetime

• Posted by by Wanderful Team
• February 28, 2020
• 8 minute read

This Antarctica travel guide was created for all our Wanderful women and allies taking this adventurous journey! Wanderful partnered with Intrepid Travel to bring 100 Wanderful women and allies aboard an 11-day journey around this magical landscape.

While some of the details in this guide are specific to our journey, there is also ample information for any Antarctica traveler!

Traveling to Antarctica is no simple feat. While there are a variety of options for cruises, solo travel is virtually impossible and land-based adventures are rare.

Our Antarctica trip with the fabulous folks at Intrepid Travel, who are experts in adventure group travel and polar expeditions, provides a responsible way to travel.

Interested in joining our Antarctica adventure? Book your spot now!

Intrepid Travel has been taking folks to Antarctica for years — to massive praise and approval. As one solo female traveler wrote “If Antarctica is a dream of yours, make it happen as soon as possible. It is truly the journey of a lifetime. You’ll leave the white continent feeling fulfilled, accomplished, in awe of our planet, and with a special bond to the special souls that accompanied you.”

If that’s not enough of a ringing endorsement, then read on to learn what you can see and do an epic adventure to Antarctica.

Looking for travel inspiration? Wanderful is a global community for travel-loving women. Connect with us !

Antarctica Travel Guide

Travel to Antarctica is highly restricted due to its remote nature and multi-national agreements. Since Antarctica is not owned by any nation, it is instead governed by treaties. Traveling to Antarctica is therefore only done with authorized companies and responsible guides.

This Wanderful Antarctica trip will be departing on 11 January 2023. Yes, the trip is booked TWO years out! 

The reason for such advance planning is, primarily, due to the costs involved. Wanderful wants as many community members and allies to join us as possible, so we scheduled a full two years to try to help folks plan their budget as best they can. 

The trip will take place on Intrepid’s 200-seat Ocean Endeavour , with 100 spots reserved for Wanderful friends, family (over age 15), and community from around the world. 

Wanderful travelers will also benefit from special community activities while onboard and — as we lead up to the trip — we’ll help you get ready, meet travel buddies, and save for this unique journey.

If you’ve been dreaming of visiting Antarctica, now is the time. Wanderful and Intrepid Travel are offering the trip-of-a-lifetime! Here is the full Antarctica itinerary…

Day 1: Ushuaia, Argentina

Our travel to Antarctica actually begins in Ushuaia, Argentina, which is the world’s southernmost city. Often called “the end of the world” Ushuaia will host you on your first night and you will be briefed at the hotel to prepare for embarkation the next day.

Day 2: Ushuaia – Embarkation Day

We will board the Ocean Endeavour, settle into our cabins, and begin cruising down the stunning Beagle Channel, named for Charles Darwin’s ship. The channel transects the Tierra del Fuego archipelago in the extreme south of South America. As the ship pulls away from the port, there’s always an air of anticipation! 

Wave goodbye to Argentina, knowing that the next time you see land, you’ll be staring at The White Continent herself.

Days 3-4: Drake Passage

The time has come to cross the Drake Passage, the legendary body of water named after English explorer Sir Francis Drake.

If the conditions are right, enjoy some time out on deck to spot dolphins, orcas or perhaps albatross. Or take advantage of the Ocean Endeavour’s fantastic facilities, including a heated saltwater pool, saunas, gym, library, and yoga classes all available. 

Safety briefings and a comprehensive lecture program occur throughout the journey, delivered by experts in Antarctica’s history, geology, and biology. 

Note that the Drake Passage can be rough at times, so anyone prone to seasickness may want to take precautionary measures. This passage can change dramatically, even called Drake Lake when it’s calm and smooth.

Rough waters aren’t reason enough to avoid this adventure – you may have very smooth sailing all the way through! And the Ocean Endeavour is well-equipped for maintaining balance and calm.

Days 5-8: Antarctic Peninsula

Once the Antarctic Convergence is left in your wake, we will begin our four incredible days of exploring the Antarctic Peninsula. 

From the landscape to the wildlife, from the adventurous activities to the educational opportunities…these four days will inevitably be life-changing! 

Days 9-10: At Sea

The return journey to Ushuaia will be filled with moments of sharing photographs with fellow travelers, continuing your wildlife spotting, and enjoying the final lectures from your polar experts. You can also bask in the benefits of this beautiful vessel, maximizing your time at sea with utter relaxation.

Day 11: Ushuaia – Disembarkation Day

Bid farewell to your new friends and carry these incredible memories away with you. Whether you head straight home or extend your journey around Tierra del Fuego or beyond, Ushuaia is your final port of call after an Antarctica adventure!

Best Time to Travel to Antarctica

Travel to Antarctica can only be done during the summer months, which are the winter months for the northern hemisphere. The sailing season for Antarctica begins at the end of October, though the peak season is December and January.

January is the warmest month in Antarctica, which is also — technically — a desert! Because Antarctica receives such little rainfall each year, it is actually a desert. 

During the peak season, you can expect around 20 hours of daylight. Temperatures are at their highest, but don’t expect summer warmth! You can expect -5 to 5℃ (23 – 41℉) for this time of year. 

Since this is the best weather time in Antarctica, you can also expect to see the highest number of visitors. While travel to Antarctica is fairly restricted, there will still likely be other ships out and about during these peak months. While this shouldn’t impede your adventure, you should still know the likelihood of seeing other vessels. 

Wildlife sightings can change based on the time of your visit as well. Migrations and mating affect what you might see at any given time. February and March, for example, are actually best for whale watching, with humpback and sperm whales quite common, in addition to orcas.

Antarctica Travel Cost

Antarctica travel is not cheap. Due to its remoteness and the inevitable costs involved with such a trip, this journey is — understandably — considered to be a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. 

Costs range based on the amenities of your expedition. For the most basic of Antarctica travel options, you can expect to pay at least $5,000. For more mid-range trips, these costs are typically around $9,000 – $13,000. 

The costs reflect the unique nature of this journey. Consider the following unusual aspects:

• Antarctica is most commonly reached by a charter flight to King George Island or a 2-day ship crossing from Argentina
• A ship undertaking such a challenging journey requires a large, professional crew
• A journey to Antarctica is highly restricted to preserve the delicate ecosystem there
• The ships allowed to sail through this challenging area must be equipped for the various natural obstacles, including having ice-breaking capacity

Additional costs you need to consider for your Antarctica travel include your international flights, which need to include flights to Ushuaia for this particular itinerary.

Your costs are inclusive of your accommodations and meals, plus all educational opportunities and most excursions. Additional excursions you might opt to include, as well as drinks, will be charged separately. 

Also remember to budget for tips for the hardworking crew! While optional, gratuity is considered to be standard for such an adventure.

Intrepid offers a suggestion of $13 – $15 per day for the ship’s crew and hospitality staff, plus $3 – $5 per day for your expedition team. The actual amounts are, of course, up to your discretion.

Things to Do in Antarctica

Travel to Antarctica can include a wide variety of experiences that are unique to this incredible landscape and location. While you can kayak and swim anywhere in the world, doing so around the Antarctica Peninsula is a rare feat!

Here are some of the top things to do in Antarctica during your trip…  

Wildlife Encounters

Wildlife encounters in Antarctica are a massive draw to such a remote location. Similarly to the Galapagos Islands, the wildlife in Antarctica don’t tend to fear human interaction.

This can lead to some awe-inspiring moments of being in close proximity.

It is very important to note that you must keep a respectful distance. A general rule is to stay at least 5 meters/15 feet away from any birds, seals, or other wildlife.

Try to keep noise to a minimum so as not to disturb their natural environment. And take care not to surround any animals – be aware of the others in your group in relation to the wildlife.

Some animals you might encounter in Antarctica include up to 7 species of penguin, up to 6 species of seal, up to 7 species of whale, and countless birds. Keep an eye out for the notable albatross! Take a look at the wildlife you might spot right here .

Landscape Wonders

Antarctica travel is focused around the astounding views and landscape of the Great White Continent. You will enjoy stunning vistas from the ship and from your zodiac, as well as many opportunities to explore the landscape itself.

Exact landing sites will be based upon the weather and other conditions of the day. 

As a nearly pristine environment, Antarctica must be protected so these views can be enjoyed by future generations as well.

Any time you will explore on land, you will wear special boots. These are provided for you and will be decontaminated after every excursion to avoid cross-contaminating seeds, plants, soil, or bacteria between locations.

Of course, global rules of leaving no trace and taking no souvenir apply here, too. Never leave anything behind, including engraving anything into rocks. And never take anything with you — leave it exactly as you found it. 

Finally, take care where you place your feet, including your tripod feet! Some rocks on the Antarctica Peninsula are covered in moss or lichen that is delicate and takes years to grow. 

Intrepid Travel focuses on responsible travel, especially for travel to Antarctica.

Learn all about their business standards and expectations for travelers right here .

On-Board Learning

A key element of traveling to Antarctica is learning more about this incredible continent. On board the ship, you can partake in a wide variety of lectures on topics ranging from wildlife to glaciers and more. These learning sessions enhance your experience and help you truly maximize this once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Kayaking Adventures

Kayaking is an optional excursion that could possibly get you up close and personal with wildlife. It’s also a great way to be active while on the water! Overall, a trip to Antarctica does not require a high fitness level. Adding a kayak adventure can get your blood flowing and warm you up a bit!

Polar Snowshoeing

Another optional excursion you can pre-book is a polar snowshoe adventure. If you love hiking and have a moderate level of fitness, this is a fantastic way to explore more and really delve into the landscape here on The White Continent. 

Zodiac Boating

Any time you leave the ship for an excursion, you will be heading out on a zodiac. These sturdy inflatable boats carry small groups for better flexibility and maneuverability. You’ll have great adventures via these expeditions!

Take the Polar Plunge!

You might have done a polar plunge on New Year’s Day before. But there’s nothing quite like jumping into the freezing cold sea around Antarctica, surrounded by glaciers and icebergs! Take the real polar plunge and prove to yourself just how brave you can be.

Extending Your Trip

On top of all the amazing things you can do while traveling to Antarctica, you can also take advantage of ending up at the end of the world. Ushuaia is often referred to as the end of the world as the world’s southernmost city. Before or after your adventure to Antarctica, you can opt to extend your trip and explore the region.

Easy access to the stunning Tierra del Fuego should certainly be tempting. With ample outdoor adventures to enjoy, this stunning landscape makes the long international flights well worthwhile.

If all else fails, this is the land of amazing red wine and steak! Get your fill before heading back home to tell everyone about your incredible adventures.

Are you ready to join us on the adventure of a lifetime?!

Book your spot to travel to Antarctica . You won’t regret it!

Wanderful Team

We are the Wanderful Team, helping connect women travelers everywhere. Join our international membership community of globally-minded women to connect, learn, share, and celebrate! Visit sheswanderful.com/join

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Antarctica VLOG: What It’s Like Aboard an Expedition Ship!

Antarctica Vlog

It’s here! Our first video taking you behind the scenes of our Antarctic expedition cruise.

We filmed this at sea while on our way from South Georgia to Antarctica  to give you a look at our cabin, daily schedule and more!

If you enjoy the video, please give it a ‘like’ and subscribe on Youtube :) Thank you!

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Curious about exploring the Antarctic? Read all about our itinerary, landings and cruise experience with the travel guides below.

Visiting the Falkland Islands – Trip Planning Checklist

We explored both the Falklands and South Georgia on a cruise with Poseidon Expeditions. Expedition cruising is unique – landings depend on wind and wave levels so every trip is different! On our voyage, we had the opportunity to land at beautiful, remote sites on both East and West Falkland and see penguins, seals and bird life up close.

If you're interested in booking an Antarctic cruise, Poseidon is offering our readers up to a 15% off discount on select voyages. Email us for more info!

Getting Around |  The Falklands is a remote place. Since we explored via cruise, our transportation and accommodation were taken care of in style. If exploring on your own, you can book helicopter service or airfare on the national carrier FIGAS.

Insurance |  You don't want to risk injury in one of the most remote places of the world! Airlifts to a hospital from the Antarctic can cost a fortune, so it is mandatory to purchase travel insurance of least $200,000 for expedition cruising. Luckily, we didn't have any incidents but better to be safe than sorry! Get a quote for your trip here .

  You Might Also Enjoy:  

Antarctica Vacation Planning

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Antarctica VLOG : A Day at Sea on Board an Expedition Cruise!

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Falklands Travel Tips

9 Beautiful Places to Visit in the Remote Falkland Islands

The Best Things to See & Do in Port Stanley

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A Visit to South Georgia : Ice, Isolation & Incredible Wildlife

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Solo Female Travel in Antarctica: I Did It and Loved It!

Is it even possible for a woman to travel alone to Antarctica? Absolutely! I did so and I’m very proud that I’ve now traveled solo on all seven continents. Now, I’m not talking about actually going to Antarctica completely alone, on a raft, without any support. That would be suicidal. The only people who get […]

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Kayaking in Antarctica: Everything You Need to Know

Kayaking in Antarctica is one of the most badass, unique, and special things I’ve ever done while traveling. Antarctica is wild, moving, and breathtaking, and there’s no better way to experience the continent than as close to the water as possible. I traveled to Antarctica with Quark Expeditions, who sponsored my trip, in March 2018.

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A Typical Day on an Antarctica Expedition Cruise

What’s a typical day like in Antarctica? What do you do? How do you spend your time? How cold is it, anyway?! I’ve gotten so many questions about Antarctica, but what I’ve really wanted to write about is what a typical day in Antarctica is really like. First things first: anyone who has been to

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My Favorite Moments in Antarctica

My trip to Antarctica was one of the most moving and inspiring journeys I’ve ever taken. Without a doubt, Antarctica is the best place I’ve ever been, as well as the most beautiful. I’ve written about how Antarctica shattered my ego, changing me as a traveler and a human. But as profound as that was,

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A Smart Antarctica Packing List (What to Wear in Antarctica)

Before I left on my Antarctica cruise, I was so stressed out figuring out my Antarctica packing list! What if I forgot something critical? You can’t exactly run to Target when you’re at the bottom of the world! Luckily, I soon learned that Antarctica packing doesn’t have to be complicated. You tend to wear the

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Antarctica and the Traveler’s Ego

I thought I would come back from Antarctica in triumph, my fists raised in exultation. Hey, I can say I’ve been to seven continents now! And you know the Polar Plunge? I did it WAY south of the Antarctic Circle! Also, here are dozens of adorable photos of me surrounded by penguins! Instead, I’m returning from

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The Top Bloggers You Should Follow If You Want to Travel to Antarctica

Antarctica. The final frontier. The most remote and difficult continent to visit. The ultimate travel adventure.

Although human beings have colonized most of the world, we have yet to permanently set up shop in Antarctica. This frozen continent is only accessible from November to March and it has no towns or villages – just a few odd expedition huts and research stations spread out across the icy wilderness.

However, although there are very few people in Antarctica, there are no shortage of living things. This continent is alive with wildlife and many species thrive here, including whales, seals, penguins, albatrosses and many more.

If you want to travel Antarctica it is not as easy as just catching a train or a cheap flight. You’ll need to embark on  a thrilling expedition into this icy world. As soon as you step foot on the continent of Antarctica, you will be left awestruck by the building-sized icebergs, the craggy mountains, the blinding white expanses of ice and snow and the incredible blue of the sky. It’s incredibly quiet and peaceful and the air smells more pure than anywhere else in the world.

If you are planning to travel Antarctica, the best way to research this destination before you go is to read the blogs of travelers who have actually been there .

I love doing this, as these bloggers are sharing their real experiences. They will be able to offer you first-hand travel stories that will inspire you and allow you to anticipate what your experience will be like. They will also be able to offer priceless advice from their own experience that you can use for your Antarctica trip.

So, here are some fantastic bloggers that you should start following right now if you are planning to travel Antarctica.

Want to Travel Antarctica? These Bloggers Show You How

Nellie from wildjunket.

Nellie Huang is a passionate travel writer and her blog, WildJunket, is an excellent travel resource. I highly recommend you follow it if you haven’t already.

Nellie has written a lot about her adventures in Antarctica. She took a freezing polar plunge , went penguin spotting , sailed through the Drake Passage and went on a cruise through Lemaire Channel – one of the most photogenic parts of Antarctica.

Nellie’s great well-written posts will give you more of an idea of what to expect when you travel to Antarctica… and her gorgeous photos will get you excited for the trip.

Megan from Mapping Megan

Megan is an Australian journalist who has been traveling the world for several years with her American husband Mike, a photographer. Megan’s blog is awesome and she has a ton of great Antarctica content to read before your trip. She says that even though many people rave about Antarctica, it was actually better than she expected. “It is one of the rare destinations which actually exceeds and surpasses the hype.”

It’s obvious that Megan loved Antarctica – she writes about it with a lot of passion and excitement. She offers some very useful tips for travel in Antarctica . She has also created a guide to the Must-Do Activities in Antarctica , such as kayaking, wildlife watching, camping, photography, snowshoeing and more.

Plus, before your Antarctica trip you should also read her guide The Best Way to Start Planning an Antarctica Trip – which contains advice on what clothing to wear, how to deal with seasickness and more.

Alesha and Jarryd from NOMADasaurus

Alesha and Jarryd are travel writers and photographers who have been traveling around the world together since 2008. Their travel blog is incredibly inspiring and is packed with great posts. They were just in Antarctica earlier in 2017, so they can tell you first-hand what it was like

If you are interested in adventure travel experiences on your Antarctica trip, you can read about their adventures kayaking at Cierva Cove on the Antarctic Peninsula . They even went camping in Antarctica and had vodka shots in the southernmost bar in the world , an active research base. Here is a link to all of their Antarctica blog posts , so that you can read up before your trip!

Tracie from Tracie Travels

Tracie and her friend Jen want on an exciting journey to travel Antarctica and wrote a great blog post with some truly stunning photos . They did the journey via cruise ship, so you can get an idea of what kinds of views are possible from the decks of the ship. They were even lucky enough to see some whale pods and even some whales mating.

Tracie’s photos are simply gorgeous and they will really stir your excitement for your Antarctica trip. Tracie also wrote a guest post over on Mapping Megan about how she got a cruise ship job that allowed her to get paid to travel to Antarctica .

Matt from A Luxury Travel Blog

In this post 8 Exciting Ways an Antarctica Cruise Might Change Your Life , Matt Schwachofer explains why the Antarctic continent is unlike any other travel destination:

“Maybe it’s the unique wildlife, perhaps it’s the knowledge that you are days away from anything resembling civilization… whatever the cause, visiting the Antarctic is a bit like blasting off for a whole other world.”

In another blog, 9 Interesting Facts about Antarctica , he explains that this travel destination has a portion of every single time zone in the world. However, this means that time zones are a bit useless anyway. After all, the summer and winter seasons are either dark or light all day, so it doesn’t really matter what time it is!

Dave and Deb from ThePlanetD

Dave and Deb are impressive travelers and bloggers. A Canadian couple, they began traveling in 2007 and these days their blog is one of the biggest in the travel niche. They are very, very inspiring and anytime you are heading anywhere, I highly recommend reading any blog posts they have published about the destination.

So, of course Dave and Deb have been to Antarctica and they have written some really inspiring and helpful stuff about it .  Here are a few of their best Antarctica posts:

Antarctica Expedition Explained – What to Do on Continent #7

11 of the Best Things to Do in Antarctica

How to Pack for An Antarctica Cruise

A Zodiac Tour of Pleneau Bay, Antarctica

Follow these bloggers before you go to Antarctica.

I truly believe that reading blogs by travelers who have actually been there is one of the best ways to get an impression of what a destination will be like – especially for somewhere like Antarctica which is so far off the beaten path. 

These are some great examples from travel bloggers who have really traveled to Antarctica and have written about their experiences there. Follow them, read their posts and even try reaching out to them on social media if you have specific questions – you can really learn a lot that will help you prepare for your trip!

Have any other great blogs and resources about how to travel Antarctica? Share them in the comments below!

Kelly Dunning

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A complete guide to Antarctica

Updated On 9th March, 2024

Antarctica is a remote, precious and pristine continent. A place untouched by humans, pure to the core and like no other I’ve witnessed on this planet.

Antarctica was the experience of a lifetime and I will never forget it. I jumped onboard a ship operated by Albatross Expeditions and in this blog post, I will share my experience of Antarctica with you. I will share the best things to do in Antarctica along with my top tips and honest review of this adventure.

Honestly, it was  ‘Am I here?’  moments over and over again. As I hiked across the thick compacted snow on the Antarctic Peninsula, I continued this surreal conversation with myself, rhetorical questions; ‘Am I here? Yes, Is this Antarctica? Yes’. 

‘Am I actually in one of the remote places on the planet? Are those real whale blows on the horizon amidst the 100 or so icebergs?’

An epic adventure; each day was greeted by iceberg castles outside the porthole window, each evening dinner accompanied by tail flukes from humpbacks and each beautiful day was filled with zodiac cruising and treks amongst Earth’s precious wildlife.

So, if you’re a nature or wildlife enthusiast, you’re in for a treat. My name is Kate from  Catch Cait  and I’m here to share with you some of the most beautiful moments as well as key tips and tricks for your journey down south to the phenomenal wonder that is Antarctica.

Getting to Antarctica

The best / easiest way depends really on your budget and your exact location. I had been travelling from Texas, United States for literally a year before I even arrived at ‘fin del Mundo’, quite literally, the end of the world. I have been backpacking and hitchhiking for a long time, so below is an insight into how I did it.

The town I bought my ticket in was Ushuaia, Argentina and while I sat for days looking at departing ships, wondering how would I get there without spending thousands, I eventually concluded, it’s either now or never. I was banking on a possible marriage with a captain, however that never came to fruition so I just bit the bullet and bought the ticket.

I spent a few days shopping around at different operators in the small town of Ushuaia. I eventually found a great deal, for a 17-day trip, which would stop at South Georgia, also known as The Galapagos of the Polar region. Your choice of itinerary depends on your desires. I chose this one as I am super passionate about wildlife, therefore South Georgia was the place to go. However, you can choose other voyages like crossing the circle, that one is really if you are an iceberg fanatic.

Budgeting for Antarctica

Ok, so yes, you must have savings to get to Antarctica. This is a must. Most voyages set you back thousands, anywhere from 6000-20000 and above. This is influenced by expedition type, operator, and how far in advance you buy your ticket. The best thing is, once onboard, food is inclusive and the company I took even included boots, a stunning Antarctica jacket and a memoir book for capturing all those amazing moments. 

Just be sure to read the small print beforehand.

The expedition included stops at the Great Wall Chinese Base Station, 3-4 days in the Antarctic Peninsula and a final 3-4 days in South Georgia & the Sandwich Islands. The ship was the Ocean Atlantic, with an ice-class rating of 1B, operated by Albatross Expeditions. 

An amazing crew, a stylish ship, huge buffets; deserts, sushi, homemade cakes each day and would you believe, a champagne celebration on entering the Antarctic circle. I couldn’t quite get the swing of this luxurious style. I had been staying in hostels for so long and then landed on this sort of titanic feel of an atmosphere; lounges, dining rooms, piano bars, beautiful clear windows where one could watch the diversity of wildlife from their dining table. It was all a bit surreal, to be honest. 

We had a sauna, gym and teatime with delicious scones each day at 4 pm, oh and not to forget the surprise chocolates on the bed at night. It felt super cosy to be wrapped up in white robes amid Antarctica eating handmade chocolates. 

As I think back, I am smiling, it was full of those moments, you know, where you have to pinch yourself over and over again.

Accommodation on board:

Before you choose your accommodation, consider what your priorities are if you are prone to seasickness.

The travel agencies will normally offer different types of berths and cabins, however, be assured that the more choosy you get, the more you pay. I wanted the most economical option so I took a two-berth cabin on the lower end of the ship. Please also remember you spend very little time in the berth, so I didn’t see a point in forking out loads of money when all I would do is sleep there. On another side note, they may pop you in with a random stranger, so again, make sure you are comfortable sharing. Ask all these questions beforehand.

Regarding bedding and comfort, I loved my cabin; had a view of icebergs and whale blows at the base of the ship, it was epic. The days were long and exploring/adventuring was the highlight each day. One day, we did get really bad weather and had to abort a mission. The weather is quite temperamental on that side of the world. See the photos below. We had to make it back to the ship real quick. Hot showers and warm blankets made the frozen continent’s weather doable and comfortable.

The berth was super luxurious, with plenty of comforts; robes, slippers, nice lighting and TV which played beautiful wildlife documentaries. There was also a speaker in each cabin,

Where our expedition leader would wake us each morning with our itinerary for the day. I always remember that, the morning call, the daily temperatures, the lectures, the crossing distance overnight and the fun adventures of the day. I smile remembering this.

Getting around Antarctica

This is an interesting topic, as you pretty much are ship-bound for most of the journey. However, depending on your expedition, you will more than likely have 1-2 outings each day, along with lectures and fun events. There is so much to do onboard, you most certainly will not be bored. There is even a library, plenty of books 🙂

The transport for the adventure outings was done by zodiacs, and small powerboats, ideal for navigating the icy waters of the Southern Ocean. If we were travelling long distances on particular days, there were plenty of wildlife lectures organised, including games nights, and karaoke and you could even pop to the sauna, gym or yoga sessions.

The Zodiacs are very comfortable boats. You would depart the ship on the lowest level, boots on, and down the stairs into the polar paradise. There was a structured system for leaving the ship to ensure the full safety of all passengers. We also had ship ‘identity’ cards whereby we would scan on each departure and entry. This ensures we don’t leave anyone on the white continent. Although I quite liked the idea of staying amongst the cute penguin colonies.

Eating and drinking whilst in Antarctica:

If you’re anything like my mum, who had no idea about Antarctica, and her first reaction was ‘What are you going to eat ?’, then not to worry, there is so much food on board, you might even have trouble coming off the ship. I can honestly tell you, the majority of us were on diets by the end of it. We had huge buffets, endless choices, and the most diverse array of flavorful desserts. We also had an a la carte menu to celebrate the journey at the end as well as an outdoor BBQ, (yes it was pretty cold) and a cooking class. It was amazing and the food was top quality. You could also bring snacks if you wanted but there were strict regulations about what you could and couldn’t bring onto the Antarctic Continent. 

We attended mandatory briefings several times throughout the expedition to ensure no flora or fauna would be disturbed. After all, it is the only continent worldwide where indigenous humans have never inhabited. Some scientists live there during the summer months. Fortunately, we did have the opportunity to visit the Chinese base station and it was super cool to view their housing, land vehicles and artefacts. I even got my passport stamped. That was amazing!

Top things to do in Antarctica…

1. swim. do the polar plunge..

Jump from the maiden ship into the iceberg-rich waters. An unforgettable moment and a shot of vodka once back on board.

2. Get a picture with the most epic, vibrant coloured King Penguin. 

Tip : Don’t ever approach wildlife, just bend down, stay still and allow them to come to you.

3. Do some yoga on the top deck.

Whilst you may think being on a ship for three weeks is lovely and relaxing, I also craved movement. Gym and Yoga sessions set me up for the day. Also, it’s pretty cold down there, so you have to find ways to heat up.

4. Make friends with the people around you.

This journey is once in a lifetime. I was a solo backpacker, so it was nice to spend some precious moments with like-minded folk. The crazier the company, the more fun, I believe.

5. Slide down the Antarctic Peninsula.

The location we docked had some beautiful mountainous terrain and a perfectly laid-out snow slide. It was epic, give a little scream and it’s that much more fun.

6. Attend a church service in South Georgia, Grytviken.

This was an unplanned event. We landed when the local navy was docked in the harbour. I went straight to the old Norwegian church to hear the male choir songs. It was a rather unusual experience, although I did enjoy it, I just didn’t expect to be on a Sub-Antarctic Island listening to the navy sing such beautiful melodies.

7. Visit the captain’s deck, if permitted, to whale watch.

Luckily on our trip, the captain was super kind and invited passengers to observe the oncoming whale flukes, blows and many birdlife, including albatrosses.

8. Have a drink/cocktail in the piano bar and listen to some harmonious melodies.

The rocking motion, iceberg views and feeling within your soul will not be beaten.

9. Visit the whaling station, and old ruins and take a guided tour of Grytviken.

So much history lies here and it is vitally important that we, as humans, dependent on the ocean, understand the implications the whaling years had upon our marine life. It is quite eerie to visit a place where thousands of whales were slaughtered, however super extraordinary to experience it and learn from it.

10. Attend a cooking class, or whatever is on schedule on the ship’s itinerary.

Not every day will you have the opportunity for an outdoor adventure, so take up the other ones on offer. This one I try to make dumplings, but the ladies just laugh. They said it didn’t appear to be a dumpling, although I’m still quite proud and you know, the movement of the ship had an influence.

11. Get a seal Selfie.

Millions of seals line the coasts of South Georgia, so it’s a must to get a selfie with one. Be aware though, these seals are not as friendly as they look. They do chase you, don’t worry though, we had some pre-training on how to defend ourselves should one approach us in a non-friendly manner.

12. Make friends with the dining staff on your boat

Imagine, these guys are working season round, so maybe 6 months plus away from their families at sea. It’s such a nice gesture to be amicable and it made the journey more enjoyable for them too. This was Alvin, he used to sing songs at dinner, and this one was dedicated to me. Oh my, I was a bit shy, if I’m honest.

13. Pretend you’re a penguin. 

These memories will last for a lifetime so why not smile and be a bit playful? Here is me, pretending to be a real-life penguin. Can you tell the difference?

14. Whale watching is a MUST.

To be honest, I didn’t sleep a whole lot of hours on board. I was too excited. I wanted to capture as many moments as I could. When the sun was rising, I was making my way to the upper deck and boy did I get a good glimpse of wildlife. Sometimes, there was not a soul to be seen, just the captain’s crew. Oh my, lots of snoring below, hehe.

15. Be present.

This expedition flew by and like time, it did not stop. It’s so important to practice mindfulness, especially when experiencing such life-changing experiences. I took some moments once docked on the islands to fully appreciate what was in front of me; eyes, ears, nose, all senses engaged. I still can feel the presence and power behind each one of these photos. I hope that you can too 🙂

16. Record, write, and document as much as you can.

This is essential, otherwise, where would memories go? So much of life gets buried within the busyness of our minds. I made it a priority of mine to write in my diary each night; experiences, wildlife encounters, feelings and of course, gratitude. We also had no access to the internet, however, sometimes there was a WhatsApp connection, so, at a very odd time, I would update my status there.

“If Antarctica were music it would be Mozart. Art, and it would be Michelangelo. Literature, and it would be Shakespeare. And yet it is something even greater; the only place on earth that is still as it should be. May we never tame it.” ― Andrew Denton

Have you ever been to Antarctica?

What questions do you have? Any tips? We’d love to hear from you.

Love Kate  from  Catch Cait

You can see more of Kate’s adventures on her Instagram  here.

Did you find this post helpful? I’d love you to share it with me.

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I’M MOLLIE AND I STARTED THIS BLOG BACK IN 2013 WHEN I HEADED OUT ON MY FIRST BACKPACKING ADVENTURE. 

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How to Visit Antarctica

From how to get there to what to pack, here's what you need to know about visiting Antarctica.

Meena Thiruvengadam is a lifelong traveler and veteran journalist who has visited more than 50 countries across six continents. Her writing has appeared in The Wall Street Journal , Departures , TripSavvy , and other publications.

There is at least one place left on earth where you really can disconnect: Antarctica.

There is no mobile phone service. There are no town squares, no restaurants, and no tourist traps. The local "airports" are really just ice or gravel landing strips.

Antarctica is nearly twice the size of Australia and mostly covered with a thick sheet of ice. It's one of the most remote destinations in the world and the trip of a lifetime for many travelers. It's also easier to travel to Antarctica than one might think.

Lars-Eric Lindblad first took a group of 57 visitors to Antarctica in 1966. "At that time it was more or less like accomplishing a moon landing," his son Sven-Olof Lindblad said. "In those days, we were not as prepared as we are now. There were no satellite ice charts. You were not that different navigationally from the early explorers."

Even now it can be hard to really understand Antarctica. It is the coldest and windiest place on earth and, by some measures, the driest. It has no currency of its own. It is a desert with no trees, no bushes, and no permanent residents. More meteorites are found in Antarctica than in any other place in the world.

"Antarctica is about the wildest place you can go on the planet," Lindblad said.

It's also an increasingly popular place to visit. According to the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators , tourism more than doubled from 2010 to 2020.

"The conversation around climate change has elevated people's interest and created a sense of urgency," Lindblad said.

The Best Times to Go to Antarctica

The Antarctic travel season lasts from November through March, the Antarctic summer. Temperatures are often below freezing at this time of year, especially in the continent's interior, but they can reach as high as 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

The best time for penguin spotting is late December or early January. Wait too long and previously pristine penguin colonies get dirty and smelly, said Nik Horncastle , a regional specialist with Audley Travel. For peak whale watching, try February or March.

Other activities, including snowshoeing, kayaking, skiing, camping, snorkeling, diving, and visits to historic sites from earlier expeditions, can be experienced throughout the season.

How to Get to Antarctica

One of the more common routes to Antarctica is by ship via Ushuaia, a city at the southern tip of Argentina. Several companies, including Hurtigruten Expeditions , Quark Expeditions , and Lindblad's namesake Lindblad Expeditions , specialize in Antarctic and polar cruising, offering journeys that range in length from just over a week to a full month and beyond.

On board, expect to mingle with scientists, naturalists, historians, and underwater specialists. "The onboard experience is a conversation around where you are and what does this place mean," Lindblad said. Internet service via satellite is available but comes with a hefty price tag.

Antarctica is one place where smaller boats offer a big advantage. "We don't recommend a boat over 200 people," Horncastle said. "Big boats can only stop at a few sites."

That said, if you want to visit Antarctica on a traditional cruise line, many major carriers can get you there — often on vessels that adhere to that fewer-than-200-guests rule of thumb. Some more affordable lines, like Norwegian and Royal Caribbean , stick to "cruise-only" itineraries, which sail along the Antarctic coast (and offer great views in the process) but don't allow disembarkation on the continent. A number of others, though, from Viking Cruises and Disney Cruise Line to Ponant and Silversea , take passengers right into the Antarctic interior, thanks to on-shore excursions and ships with icebreaker capabilities.

Booking an Antarctica Expedition

Expect to spend between $6,000 and $50,000 to visit Antarctica, depending on the length of the trip and the level of luxury you seek.

"It's an expensive trip," Horncastle said — but there are options if you're traveling on a budget.

Intrepid Travel and G Adventures both specialize in affordable trips to Antarctica, and neither requires single supplements for solo travelers. If you don't feel the need to set foot on the continent, you can also opt for a sightseeing flight. These flights, which cut costs by flying over Antarctica without stopping there, are available from most major cities in Australia at prices that start around $1,200 per person.

To both fly over and step onto the continent, Antarctica21 combines a two-hour flight from Chile with cruises that passengers can board in Antarctica. While this option doesn't give visitors the chance to cruise the famous Drake Passage, it does save time and minimize the risk of seasickness.

"The Drake Passage is a crossing full of unpredictable conditions," said Antarctica21's Francesco Contini. "When the crossing is rough, passengers tend to be not very comfortable."

Packing List for Antarctica

• Knee-high waterproof boots
• Waterproof pants
• A warm parka
• Waterproof gloves
• Warm base layers
• Extra socks
• A tight-fitting beanie
• A warm scarf
• A camera and lenses
• Seasickness medication

20 of The Coolest Things to Do in Antarctica: The “White Continent”

by Aileen Adalid Things to Do , Antarctica , Cruises & Sailing 28 comments

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A trip to Antarctica is undoubtedly the journey of a lifetime for most travelers — after all, it’s a remote grandeur that is unmatched when it comes to natural vistas and pristine wilderness! But unlike what most people think, a trip to this southerly part of the world is NOT just all about cruising because through responsible IAATO -approved expedition providers, there is a gradual increase of exciting and unique things to do in Antarctica that are a fit for just about anyone.

I had the amazing chance to visit Antarctica with Hurtigruten last December and it was absolutely the most awe-inspiring adventure that I have ever done in my life. Up to this day, I still can’t shake off the wonderful encounters and memories that I’ve made!

So if I’ve managed to pique your interest, below are just some of the most epic experiences that you can do when you’re in the ‘White Continent’ — with or without a cruise expedition ship. Plus, depending on your interest (may it be mild or extreme) there is surely enough for you to do here!

NOTE : Wanna know when is the best time to visit Antarctica? Read here for a complete list of FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions).

Table of Contents

Things to Do in Antarctica

1. get close to antarctic animals.

This is certainly one of the experiences that everyone aims to do when they get to set foot in Antarctica!

First and foremost, the penguins: there are 7 adorable penguin species that you can find in and around the continent, and I assure you, you  will see them no matter the time or month that you come. Also, in order to not stress these incredible creatures, everyone is advised to keep a 5-meter distance but I guarantee you: given how curious the penguins are, there will be so many instances wherein they will voluntarily walk up to you!

Other superb Antarctic animals that you can get up close to are whales and seals.

During my adventure with Hurtigruten , I managed to see a big pod of finback whales aside from a couple of orcas and humpbacks. If you’re lucky, you can even witness more of them! Meanwhile, seals number a lot, especially in South Georgia and there are 5 types in total which you will likely find in an expedition: crabeater, fur, elephant, leopard, and weddell.

READ : Antarctic Animals: Types of Wildlife to Spot During an Antarctica Cruise

– – –

2. Witness almost a million penguins!

I suggest (or I insist) that you choose an Antarctic cruise that makes a stopover to the sub-Antarctic island of South Georgia  (e.g.: Hurtigruten’s 20-day expedition ).

Why so…? Because if you land in South Georgia, you will have the best wildlife experience in your entire life — guaranteed!

Not to mention, the beauty of this island is truly unparalleled. Besides, when you land in St. Andrew’s Bay, you’ll be blown away by the  huge colony of king penguins that number almost a million!

Personally, it was an extremely surreal moment when I finally saw tons of these penguins huddled together whilst their chirping circulated through the air like a loud orchestra. In short: I’m pretty sure that this sight will leave a mark on you; therefore I dearly recommend that you put this high on your list of things to do in Antarctica! (You can see more of my experience in my vlog series above this post).

3. Experience overnight camping

It’s not every day that you can have the chance to go camping in the most extreme and southern place in the world — so when the opportunity presents itself, I urge you to give this a try!

It won’t be the most comfortable camping escapade given the cold conditions and the strong winds on the continent, but it will surely make for a memorable exploit still. Rest assured, as long as you come with an IAATO tour provider , your safety will be guaranteed!

But if I say so myself, my camping experience in Antarctica was pleasant and warm, thanks to the high-quality assistance and equipment that was given to us by Hurtigruten .

READ : Camping in Antarctica ~ A Unique Overnight Experience

4. Kayak in Antarctic waters

After you’ve explored the icy terrain and said hello to the penguins or seals as a part of your things to do in Antarctica, it’s time to explore the waters! Besides, kayaking is the best way to get super close to gigantic glaciers, icebergs, and whales.

Anyhow, no matter your skill level, it’s absolutely possible to go kayaking in Antarctica. However, it helps to remember to stay cautious — additionally, it helps that you’ve had prior experience of kayaking too since this activity will require a good sense of balance from you.

Either way, the waters will be calm and there will be professional guides who will be with you at all times. Besides, your safety will always be of utmost importance, so no sweat!

5. Go inside a volcano

Photo by: Shutterstock

The South Shetland Islands are a group of islands at the tip of the Antarctic Peninsula (or the northernmost part of mainland Antarctica) and there you will find the unique Deception Island because it is the caldera (volcanic ‘crater’) of an active volcano.

Yep, you read that right — it’s the crater of an active volcano! How’s that for an amazing Antarctic adventure?

First things first, entering here will be quite exhilarating. To give you some background, a portion of the wall of the volcanic caldera in Deception Island had collapsed long ago which resulted in the flooding of its interior — therefore, access to this interior is only through a 200 metre-wide (660 feet) entrance known as Neptune’s Bellows.

There is even a rock in the middle just under the water; plus, the area to one side is also foul. So you can just imagine how our ship had only 100 meters (330 feet) with which to navigate! Rest assured, we got in safely (of course!)

Once inside, you can even explore the protected black sand bay of Deception Island where you can witness some research stations as well as learn about its past whaling stations. But if I may say so, one of the best things you can do here is to…

6. Do a polar plunge!

I mean… I was already in Antarctica AND I was even inside a volcano, so why not do the first polar plunge of my life in the freezing waters of this unique location?! …

Aaah, I can still feel the chill!

Some cruise companies let their guests do a polar plunge by jumping off a ledge on the ship, but on my trip with Hurtigruten , we were given the opportunity to do it from the Pendulum Cove beach on Deception Island. (So yes, I did a polar plunge “inside” an active volcano — and I even got a certificate for it! How’s that for being ‘extreme’? Haha.)

TRIVIA :  There was a time when you can dig holes in the sand (since the sand IS warm in Deception Island) so you can enjoy a ‘hot spring’ by the bay; however, this is NO longer allowed under the Antarctic Treaty. Hence, people’s perception that there are hot springs in Deception Island is NOT true; and believe me, even if it was still allowed to do that, there is no way that your plunge won’t be cold.

You can also do a polar plunge in Whalers Bay of Deception Island, but the upside of doing it in Pendulum Cove is that once you get back on the beach after your swim, you’ll get to enjoy brief moments of warm sand on your feet.

Of course, I immediately dipped in the ship’s hot outdoor jacuzzi after my polar plunge — after all, I needed to remind my body how it felt to be warm again!

READ : Polar Plunge ~ The Day I Swam in Antarctica’s Icy Waters!

7. Try snowshoeing or hiking

You will definitely be given a lot of opportunities to go hiking or snowshoeing — not only in Antarctica but also in the sub-Antarctic islands that you will be stopping in (as dependent on your cruise expedition tour provider).

As someone who is into hiking, this was one of the things to do in Antarctica that I really enjoyed; after all, it gives you access to places and sights that other guests wouldn’t have the possibility of seeing if they didn’t opt for this extra activity. (Other than the fact that it makes for some good exercise.)

NOTE : It is VERY important to wear shades or sunglasses while in Antarctica because there is such a thing as ‘snow blindness’. Don’t forget to put sunscreen either because the UV rays here are harsher than normal given its southerly location.

8. Enjoy cruising around with zodiac boat tours

When you’re a part of an Antarctica cruise expedition, there will be a lot of chances for you to go on extra or optional excursions such as going on the zodiac or polarcirkel boat tours.

These small yet sturdy boats are basically used to ferry people either ashore or on other kinds of adventures in order to get as close as possible to the scenes and wildlife around you.

Simply put: this is one of the things to do in Antarctica that will bode well as an alternative for people who are not too confident with their kayaking skills. Don’t worry about the elements though because your cruise tour operator will make sure that you’re tucked in securely and that you’re wearing the right gear that will protect you from the harsh cold winds and water.

Hence, all that you need to do is to stay alert and keep a look out for any penguins jumping up and down in the water, seals gliding in the water, whales popping out from their swim, and more!

9. Send a postcard from the Penguin Post Office

The Penguin Post Office in Port Lockroy is the world’s most southerly post office and it is typically run by a staff of 4 — humans; unfortunately, NOT penguins… but the post office IS surrounded by about 3,000 gentoo penguins!

There might be some other stops during your cruise expedition where you’ll get to buy and send postcards, such as the Arctowski research station on King George Island; but I say, Port Lockroy is the post office in this world that you shouldn’t miss as part of your things to do in Antarctica. Ultimately though, your loved ones will simply get the surprise of their life when they receive your postcards all the way from Antarctica!

The stamps here cost only $1 each and you can buy your postcards there or on your cruise ship.

TRIVIA :  During Operation Tabarin in 1944, the British set up two bases in the Antarctic Peninsula to establish a permanent presence in the Antarctic. They set up Base A at Port Lockroy and Base B at Whalers Bay, Deception Island. Since its restoration in 1996 by the Antarctic Heritage Trust (AHT), Base A on Goudier Island at Port Lockroy has become one of the most visited sites in Antarctica. It now operates as a museum, kept as it was in the 1950s, as well as a post office and souvenir shop with all proceeds going to the AHT, a non-profit organization dedicated to conserving this and other historical huts in Antarctica.

10. Cross the infamous Drake Passage

Photo by Karsten Bidstrup / Hurtigruten

Another option for reaching Antarctica is by plane; but for sure, the most common way for visiting is by cruise ship.

Speaking of which, I would suggest doing the latter because apart from it being cheaper, it will also give you a shot at experiencing the infamous Drake Passage!

What’s up with this Drake Passage? Well, it is said to be the world’s roughest seas given that it is where the Atlantic, Pacific, and Southern seas converge. There aren’t any nearby landmass either so the currents here meet with NO resistance, resulting in it being the choppiest waters in the world.

But of course, one’s exploit here can either be called ‘ Drake Lake ’ or ‘ Drake Shake’ as dependent on weather conditions. In my case, it was somewhere in the middle: it was swaying more than usual, but it was manageable — nevertheless, it’s quite cool to have the bragging rights of crossing and ‘surviving’ this famous body of water.

11. Learn more about Antarctica through scientists

This is yet again another one of those things to do in Antarctica that I definitely enjoyed and was thankful for!

You see, all IAATO operators are encouraged to provide ways of enriching and educating guests about the environment of Antarctica and its protection — so with ships like Hurtigruten, there were FREE educational programs or lectures available every day wherein everyone was free to participate or not. They let us learn more about the wildlife and the places we were visiting, and they were even delivered by the expedition team that was made up of expert geologists, marine biologists, historians, and ornithologists among many others!

If I happen to have any specific requests, I was also always free to approach any of the staff scientists on board or on shore. With that in mind, doesn’t it just make a trip to Antarctica enriching?

NOTE :  Alternatively, you can go a step further and work in Antarctica as a scientist or support staff! A quick search online will take you to some job listings for this. Anyhow, it helps to note that there are more people interested in working in Antarctica than there are actual job openings available.

12. Try scuba diving

Diving under Antarctic waters will be like no other dive out there, so if you’re a seasoned driver, this is an activity that you CANNOT afford to miss when in the ‘White Continent’. After all, it is said that with the combination of the sunlight and the ice formations, the water wonderland that you’ll see will have a constant shifting of spectacular colors!

Regrettably… this isn’t something anyone can do because inexperienced divers will only be a danger to themselves and to others too. Even if the dive isn’t so technical, due to the unpredictable conditions, this is only limited to experienced or advanced divers.

NOTE : To be a part of this diving expedition, you must be a trained and certified scuba diver with an internationally-recognized certificate, have prior adventures in cold water dives and dry-suit diving, have at least 20 dives, and a completed diver’s logbook .

13. Climb the tallest mountain in Antarctica

If you have the goal of climbing the world’s 7 summits, Antarctica’s Vinson Massif is a peak that you’ll have to concur.

Technically speaking, it’s not so difficult to go up this 4,897-meter mountain but given the extreme Antarctic environment, you would need to have reasonable experience and training beforehand.

Called the “ top of the bottom of the world “, there are several tour groups offering the service of taking you on this expedition which takes at least 14 days. Needless to say… this is an adventure I’m unqualified for — but, I still wish that someday I will be able to do it because I’m sure it will be such an amazing endeavor!

14. Go trekking to the South Pole

If time is not an issue and you’ve got grand polar ambitions of going to both ends of the Earth, there are companies out there that do treks to the South Pole.

But a word of caution : if you think that scuba diving and climbing Vinson Massif as things to do in Antarctica are already extreme, then trekking to the South Pole will be far crazier.

Besides, this expedition will require a humongous amount of commitment — emotionally, financially, and physically (and there’s even a chance you might not reach it). Yet of course, if you’re up for the challenge, this will be a journey that will be a memorable achievement!

15. Run a marathon

If you’re a marathon runner or ultra-athlete who’s looking for the next big challenge or activity to tick off on your list, then the famous Antarctic Ice Marathon should be put under your radar!

It will be a formidable race on the continent with an average windchill temperature of -20C and an altitude of 700 meters but you bet that it will be a unique and fulfilling feat.

NOTE : Registration fee is about $18,000+ inclusive of roundtrip flights to the Antarctic interior, accommodation, food, running paraphernalia and photos. It’s also possible to do a half marathon during this event.

16. Hit the slopes!

If what you want is the ultimate snow-sports expedition, nothing beats exploring Antarctica by skiing or snowboarding on its grand slopes!

Nowadays, there are several Antarctic tour operators that give skiing enthusiasts the chance to do a bucket list activity in this remote location.

Now, of course, to be a part of an adventure like this, you don’t really need to be a pro athlete — but you will need to at least have a reasonable level of fitness, some prior training, and capability in ski touring. Similarly, snowboarding is something that you can do too while you’re exploring the wild corners of Antarctica!

17. Visit a research station

There are NO permanent residents in Antarctica and there are only two transient groups that go there: either tourists or researchers. Speaking of which, as a tourist to the ‘White Continent’ you can get to have the exclusive chance of visiting some of the active research stations on the continent!

There are two famous stations that I know of and they are:

• Henryk Arctowski Polish Antarctic Station : one of the most visited scientific stations, mostly because it is readily accessible and the Polish staff is friendly. Established in 1977, the station is managed by the Polish Academy of Sciences and its main research areas include marine biology, oceanography, geology, geomorphology, glaciology, meteorology, climatology, seismology, magnetism, and ecology. Visitors are free to come in and talk to the scientists; plus, the station’s official stamp is available for use by anyone on their passport or on postcards.
• Vernadsky Research Base:   Found in Marina Point on the Argentine Islands, this Ukrainian Antarctic Station has several buildings, but the most famous part of them all would be their lounge which is considered to be the southernmost public bar in the world! People used to have the chance to purchase a $3 shot of horilka or a Ukrainian alcoholic beverage here, but it ended in 2016. Anyhow, you can still mingle with the amazing Ukrainian scientists on site and have a tour of the whole base. .

18. Cruise through the scenic Lemaire Channel

Lemaire Channel is an 11-kilometer strait (or a naturally-formed navigable waterway) in Antarctica that is often called the “ Kodak Gap “. As you might already know, “ Kodak ” is one of those famous film brands and the reason why Lemaire Channel was nicknamed as such is because this place is just so ridiculously photogenic.

I swear, when we passed by this strait’s calm waters, we could NOT stop taking pictures of the snow-capped mountains, steep cliffs, and icebergs that surrounded us!

As one of Antarctica’s top tourist destinations, going through this channel is a standard part of a cruise itinerary, but the only hindrance to possibly seeing it are the icebergs in the water — if they’re too many, you might not be able to pass! However, if you get to do so, it will absolutely be a sight that you will forever remember.

This was actually the last landscape that we saw in Antarctica and it was surely a great way to end our journey!

19. Practice your photography skills (or hone them!)

It’s absolutely difficult to take a bad photo in Antarctica — it’s just so photogenic, no matter the weather or the time!

So go and snap away crazy; but indeed, if you want to improve your skills, this will be the best place to start.

After all, most cruise tour operators (such as  Hurtigruten ) provide photography classes that are handled by their onboard professional photographer. As such, this will give you the perfect opportunity to hone your skills! Don’t worry though because anyone is certainly free to approach the said photographer to ask for tips on capturing the best shots possible.

Ain’t that a treat as one of the things to do in Antarctica?

20. Visit nearby islands

If you ask me, it will be a shame to visit Antarctica without stopping by some of its Antarctic and sub-Antarctic islands. Therefore, if you get the chance to go to this far-off destination, you must surely take the opportunity to stop by some of the places like the Falkland Islands, South Georgia, South Orkney, and more!

For instance, you can enjoy the gorgeous landscapes in the Falkland Islands that are filled with penguins of different species as well as other wild birds.

But I guess the island that I love the most would be South Georgia  because of its rugged yet stunning vistas! Not to mention, it holds several colonies of fur seals, elephant seals, and king penguins. (As I’ve already mentioned previously, it was here that I got to see a colony of king penguins that numbered almost a million and it was truly a spectacle!).

READ : South Georgia ~ A Breathtaking Antarctic Hub for Wildlife Viewing!

Antarctica Travel F.A.Q.

Given that you will be staying on a ship, it will depend on the tour or expedition provider that you are sailing with. Kindly inquire with them, or better yet, just bring a universal adapter for your trip.

You might think that December would be the worst time to go, but it actually is the best time because it’s one of the ‘warmer months’ in Antarctica! In fact, Antarctica’s summer season is from November to March with temperatures averaging at only about 0°C to 8°C (with close to 24 hours of sunlight).

Antarctica is obviously NOT a budget destination given how most cruise expeditions start at a price of $5,000 per person. However, there’s the possibility of paying only $4,000 if you manage to get a last-minute deal in Ushuaia (the main starting point of cruise ships in Argentina) during November or December. This option is only ideal if you have the time and patience to wait for a chance to come by — which they say can be quite rare. Yet again, it’s worth a shot! For a more hassle-free experience, naturally, it’s better to book in advance.  Hurtigruten ‘s expeditions usually start at $5,000  per person (my 20-day expedition’s cost starts at $17,000).

There is a LOT to take note of: from seasickness medicine to the proper clothing. For a complete list, read this comprehensive article:  Antarctica Cruise Packing List .

Want a detailed Antarctica travel guide?

For more info about how to get to Antarctica, which provider to book with, visas, etc. — come and read my Antarctica Itinerary guide !

There definitely are an array of activities in Antarctica that will cater to just about any kind of traveler.

All in all, I hope this list helped give you a better idea of what the continent can offer so that you could soon jumpstart on your epic adventure. Enjoy!

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I’m excited to experience camping in antartica. i love your blog.

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People Go Snorkeling in Antarctica? (Spoiler: We Did!)

You CAN go snorkeling in Antarctica! I know what you’re thinking. We’re crazy. Antarctica is the coldest place on the planet and the last thing that comes to mind is getting in the water during a visit.

Truth be told, from the moment we learned about it, we wanted to do it. It is the ultimate bucket list experience! Was it cold? Yes. Would we do it again? Absolutely!

As PADI Advanced Open Water SCUBA divers, we have been scuba diving and snorkeling all around the world. We love to be in the water. That said, most of our snorkel locations tend to be in the tropics and in warm water.

Although there was this one time, we snorkeled the Silfra Fissure in Iceland . That experience required a dry suit and was in cold water. Oh, and we may or may not have jumped out of our kayaks in Greenland for an icy swim, too.

Compared to those experiences, Antarctica was next level. The amount of gear needed, medical clearances, and ice water to the face is incomparable.

Be sure to check out our Ultimate Antarctica Travel Guide

Snorkeling in Antarctica – The Facts

Table of Contents

How Cold is the Water in Antarctica, Really?

Snorkeling in Antarctica presents a unique challenge due to its frigid waters, which often range from -1.9°C to 5°C (28.6°F to 41°F), influenced by the Antarctic Circumpolar Current. The high salinity and extreme cold require specialized gear like dry suits and thermal layers to prevent hypothermia.

The marine ecosystem, including krill and other species, adapts to these cold waters, with krill thriving in temperatures of -1.5°C to 2°C (29.3°F to 35.6°F). Understanding that the Antarctic Bottom Water forms in regions with water temperatures around -1.9°C (28.6°F) highlights the complexities of the underwater environment.

In summary, it’s cold. Really cold! And that is something to prepare for. Both physically and mentally.

How to Book a Snorkel Trip in Antarctica

Snorkeling in Antarctica requires professional guidance. Reputable tour operators provide safety equipment, including dry suits, gloves, hoods, and snorkeling gear. They also ensure that participants adhere to strict guidelines to minimize environmental impact and protect the delicate ecosystem.

The Snorkeling Program was offered as an optional activity during our 21-Day Antarctica & South Georgia Expedition . Unlike we’re all used to with other destinations, you cannot book just one snorkeling trip in this situation. You were either in the whole program or you did not snorkel.

This meant all gear was fitted at the start of our trip and we were able to develop a deep bond with our small snorkel group during our 21-day trip. People were not coming and going, and we really valued this. We all had the same training and experiences, and we could trust each other when we were in the water.

The cost for this program is $835 for this long itinerary. It’s not cheap but it was worth every penny. We had the potential to snorkel every day in both Antarctica and South Georgia, oftentimes twice in one day.

Something worth noting, we were still able to participate in every landing and zodiac ride, in addition to being able to snorkel. It really was an exceptional way to experience Antarctica and South Georgia!

Aurora Expeditions is the only company currently offering a snorkeling program on their regular Antarctica departures. This puts them in a unique position to deliver an enhanced experience in the polar regions.

Our trip was booked and organized by the amazing team at  Adventure Life . They work closely with many operators in the Antarctica space, including Aurora Expeditions, and are Expert Trip Planners who help streamline the trip planning process and save you hours of time researching the best options.

Snorkel Gear for Cold Water – What We Wore

The frigid waters of Antarctica demand specialized gear. A dry suit is essential to prevent hypothermia. It seals out the icy water while keeping you dry. Along with the drysuit, we wore thermal layers to provide extra insulation against the extreme cold.

Aurora Expeditions provided us with top-notch equipment. The dry suits were top-brand and in good condition. They also provided us with thick mm neoprene gloves, booties, and a hood.

This gear is specifically designed for the extreme cold, allowing us to stay comfortable and safe while exploring the icy underwater world. The snorkeling gear included heavy-duty fins, a mask, and a snorkel tube.

Underneath all of that, we were advised to wear our wool thermal layers, fleece or down pants, and multiple pairs of thick wool socks on our bottom half. On the top half, more wool thermal layers, a fleece layer, and a down layer. At the time it seemed like overkill, but we needed it!

What is There to See Underwater in Antarctica?

Antarctica’s marine ecosystem is surprisingly diverse and unveils a captivating array of cold-adapted marine species. We encountered curious Antarctic Fur seals, agile penguins, and intricate underwater plant life.

The underwater world is rich with foundational krill swarms, sustaining the entire food web, and I literally squealed with delight when I was able to see them in the water during our first snorkel! Delicate sea anemones, cold-water sponges, and soft corals added splashes of color and texture.

While not as diverse as tropical waters, species like the Antarctic toothfish, various fish species, and resilient jellyfish thrive in this unique environment.

Observing these cold-loving creatures, along with invertebrates like starfish and sea spiders, offered us a rare glimpse into the remarkable adaptations that allow life to flourish in the icy waters of Antarctica.

We did not enter the water with any whales, but we did enjoy several amazing zodiac encounters! And no, we didn’t worry about encountering orcas or sharks.

Of course, every interaction was passive. We were instructed to always maintain a safe distance to avoid disturbing the wildlife. If you couldn’t abide by those rules, you weren’t allowed to snorkel.

Lastly, we enjoyed some amazing ice snorkels. This included brash ice and icebergs. It was crazy to see them under the water, as they are very vibrant and large. We had so much fun climbing on the ice and splashing back into the water!

The Leopard Seal Law

Ok, it’s not a real law but you might have noticed that we didn’t add Leopard seals to our outline of the many things you can see while snorkeling in Antarctica. This isn’t because it isn’t possible. Rather, it’s due to what we like to call the Leopard Seal Law.

Seeing as this sea-loving mammal is an apex predator in Antarctica – this means the top of the food chain – most snorkeling programs will avoid them. Our experience with Aurora Expeditions was that if a Leopard seal was spotted during any scouts or zodiac cruises, we were unable to snorkel in that location.

They can be very assertive and playful, which can pose a threat to someone that isn’t trained to be around them. They also have very sharp teeth and like to bite everything!

There were only 2 instances where this affected our snorkel outings, but we were happy to stay in the zodiac and take photos instead.

How to Prepare for Antarctica Snorkeling

Antarctic snorkeling demands mental resilience. The cold water can be physically and mentally taxing, so be prepared for the shock of the temperature. Focusing on the unique sights and experiences will help you overcome the initial discomfort.

The first time is the worst. This is what I have told everyone. You don’t really know what to expect, so it can be nerve-wracking. You also can’t really prepare for how cold the water will feel on your face! While the rest of your body is covered, your face is not and that takes some getting used to.

Given the extreme conditions, Aurora Expeditions requires you to consult a doctor and obtain medical clearance to participate in the Antarctica snorkeling program. Additionally, their team includes medical professionals who are ready to assist if needed during the trip.

How Safe is Snorkeling in Antarctica?

Safety is important to Aurora Expeditions, and they’ve implemented several rules that ensured our safety while participating in the snorkeling program.

Firstly, every outing was cleared by both the head captain of the ship and the Expedition Leader. If they didn’t sign off, nobody snorkeled. They assessed the weather, wind, and currents, and then consulted with the snorkel guides before giving the green light.

Each landing or zodiac operation has a time limit, so the snorkel group was the first off the ship. We would put our dry suits on before leaving the ship and wear them for the entire duration of the outing.

The typical allotted time for snorkel operations was around 40 minutes. This included the time to gear up with hoods, gloves, and snorkel gear before getting in the water. This would leave roughly 20 – 30 minutes to snorkel.

This was plenty of time before getting cold. I would say our average snorkel was around 15 minutes and we never stayed longer than 30 minutes. This was the ship rule.

Snorkel Safety in the Water

Before getting in the water, our snorkel guides would radio the bridge with our location – always in view of the ship – and advise the number of snorkelers going in the water. The same would happen once everyone was securely back in the zodiac.

If any of us sprung a leak, and yes it happened, we were to notify the snorkel guide and immediately leave the water. Being wet in that kind of cold is dangerous and we all paid close attention to this.

The only time I leaked was when I accidentally bunched up my wrist seal while putting on my gloves. I did not notice that my arm was wet while in the water because you can still feel the cold through the dry suit. It was a weird phenomenon.

Lastly, we had a no-judgment group rule. If someone was feeling cold, we would speak up, all get out of the water, and return to the ship. We also had the option to just get back on the zodiac and wait.

Underwater Photography Pointers

Underwater photography in Antarctica is challenging due to low visibility and cold conditions. Camera batteries also drain fast from cold water, so you need to take all of your photos as fast as possible.

We also had many issues with cameras freezing up or getting too fogged to use. The air temperature was considerably warmer than the water!

We used a GoPro and our iPhone 14 Pro Max for photos and video. Another snorkeler in our group had an underwater housing for his DSLR. We all suffered from the same challenges.

Working in those conditions was never consistent, despite all our underwater experience. We did manage to get some great photos and videos but missed a lot too.

My biggest piece of advice is to make sure you master your equipment before trying to use it underwater in Antarctica as that will provide the best opportunities when things work right.

Environmental Responsibility for Snorkelers

One of the hallmarks of Aurora Expeditions is their dedication to responsible tourism. They strictly adhere to guidelines that protect the delicate Antarctic ecosystem. You can trust that your adventure will have minimal impact on the environment.

That said, it was extremely important for all of us to adhere to the Leave No Trace principles : avoid touching or disturbing marine life, respect the guidelines set by your tour operator, and ensure that our presence left minimal impact.

You should also check out our guide on How to Visit Antarctica Responsibly .

Reasons to Consider an Antarctica Snorkeling Adventure

Snorkeling in Antarctica is certainly an extreme adventure, and we’ve met so many people who have said they would never try it. However, it can truly be a life-changing experience, for more than one reason.

Unique Marine Life: Antarctica’s underwater world is teeming with remarkable marine life that can’t be found anywhere else on the planet. Snorkelers have the chance to encounter seals, penguins, krill, jellyfish, and a variety of fish species adapted to the extreme cold.

Pristine Environment: Antarctica remains one of the last untouched frontiers on Earth. The opportunity to explore its untouched underwater ecosystem allows you to witness nature in its purest form, unspoiled by human interference.

Immersive Adventure: Snorkeling in Antarctica is an immersive experience that enables you to be a part of this frozen realm, rather than merely observing from a boat.

Sense of Accomplishment: Overcoming the challenges of snorkeling in frigid waters and experiencing the Antarctic environment firsthand creates a sense of accomplishment and resilience that stays with you long after the journey ends.

Unconventional Exploration: Antarctica is often associated with icy landscapes, but its underwater wonders are less known.

Wildlife Interaction: Share the waters with curious seals, agile penguins, and other creatures adapted to the cold.

Bucket List Experience: Snorkeling in Antarctica is a true bucket list item that few people get to check off.

Environmental Consciousness: Experiencing the fragility of the Antarctic environment firsthand can foster a deeper understanding and appreciation for conservation efforts.

Personal Growth: The challenges of snorkeling in Antarctica – both physical and mental – push individuals out of their comfort zones, fostering personal growth, adaptability, and resilience.

Final Thoughts on Snorkeling in Antarctica

Snorkeling in Antarctica isn’t just an activity – it’s an extraordinary journey that will leave a permanent mark on your life.

Aurora Expeditions gave us a rare chance to explore a world hidden beneath the icy surface. With their expertise, commitment to responsible tourism, and dedication to our safety, we had the privilege to enjoy an experience that few others ever will.

Watch our In-Depth Antarctica & South Georgia Vlog

You might also like:

• 26 Epic Things to Do in Antarctica
• Best Time to Visit Antarctica
• 121 Antarctica Facts
• 34 Antarctica Cruise Tips For First-Time Visitors

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Travel planning resources, about lina stock.

Lina is an award-winning photographer and writer that has been exploring the world since 2001. She has traveled to 100 countries on all 7 continents. Member: SATW, NATJA, ATTA, ITWA

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The Best Travel Vloggers on YouTube in 2022

If you’re anything like me, your YouTube home feed includes a lot of travel stories, with food and travel vloggers, around the world explorers, van life channels, and outdoor adventurers.

Watching travel videos helps me decide where to travel next in the world, and what exactly to do once I get there.

In person travel around the world is difficult with the pandemic right now, so I’ve loved watching travel adventures virtually from my favorite YouTubers. It’s a wonderful way to mentally escape the stress and uncertainty of the last year.

YouTube has more than 2 billion (yes, that’s billion with a b ) monthly logged in users. If you’re a prospective travel vlogger, getting your videos on YouTube can be as easy as filming a video, editing with a video editor , and uploading. Because getting started on YouTube can be so simple, that’s meant plenty of vloggers, with interesting stories to tell, are on the platform.

Many of my favorite vloggers introduce viewers to bucket list travel adventures around the world, while others stay closer to home.

Several travel bloggers on this list, like Kara and Nate, made the transition from around-the-word travel videos to van life during the pandemic. Others have bought and renovated isolated cabins, while others continue their adventures locally.

I enjoy watching their current adventures, but it’s also a great time to dig back in the archives and watch older videos. I even check out a few classic travel TV shows from time to time!

The Best Travel YouTube Channels

Check out some of our favorite YouTube travel channels. We think these are the some of the best travel vloggers on YouTube right now.

Kara and Nate 2.1 Million YouTube Subscribers

I just found Kara and Nate’s channel in the last year. It’s fantastic, and I wish I’d found it sooner! Kara and Nate are a husband and wife team from Nashville Tennessee, who traveled to 100 countries before travel slowed down in 2020.

The production quality of this channel is fantastic, with high quality videography, and great audio as well. These days, they’re making content driving through the USA in a van, with plenty of stops at interesting accommodations and attractions along the way.

Favorite video: We Slept Outside in Antarctica

Eamon and Bec 782K YouTube subscribers

Eamon and Bec are a Canadian couple that I started watching when they were travelling around Europe and Morocco in their self converted Sprinter van. There’s plenty of gorgeous content on here about their travels, their vegan recipes (they even have a vegan cookbook), and life on the road.

These days, Eamon and Bec are vlogging about renovating their cabin in the woods of Ontario, Canada.

Favorite travel video: How to Winter in the Canadian Wilderness

Foresty Forest 245K YouTube subscribers

Foresty Forest is the real deal, if you’re interested in bicycle touring, ascending mountains, and the great outdoors. His crockpot makes frequent appearances, with simple home cooked meals made in the van.

This is old school YouTube, without paid sponsorships, or paid reviews.

You’ll find yourself singing the insanely catchy theme song, “ Foresty Forest, he lives in a van… Foresty Forest! “

I always catch myself smiling when there’s a new Foresty Forest upload.

Favorite video: Living in a Minivan During Freezing Temperatures

Christian Schaffer – 70K subscribers

Christian makes her living as an outdoor adventure and travel photographer, and was a former Abercrombie model and retail manager.

As you’d expect, her travel videography is beautiful, but the channel is also packed full of thoughtful, intelligent tips about van life, making money, and life in general.

Favorite video: Van Life | Parking and Solo Female Safety

The Wild Card: Tom Green 267K YouTube subscribers

Bet you didn’t expect to find Tom Green on this list!

Tom is best known as a comedian, whose career started on MTV in the 1990s. He’s known for quirky and often pretty juvenile comedy like the Bum Bum Song , the Slutmobile , and Hollywood films Road Trip and Charlie’s Angels, as well as being married to Drew Barrymore in the early 2000s.

These days, Green seems a lot more introspective, as he’s vlogging his van life with his adorable dog, Charlie. Green’s still a quirky mix, with gorgeous cinematography, visits to stunning and out of the way places, musical offerings, and rambling, free-form live streams.

Favorite video: Lost Ancient City In America – Tom Green Visits Chaco Culture National Historical Park – Van Life

Slim Potatohead 129K YouTube subscribers

Slim Potatohead is something of an outlier among travel vlogs.

There’s definitely good videography and storytelling here, but this is not the vlog for you if you’re looking for fast paced, high excitement travel. Slim meanders along on his adventures, and it often seems like very little happens in a given blog. That said, he’s definitely an authentic voice that’s well worth checking out.

He travels pulling a small older trailer, spending plenty of time off grid in nature. Older videos feature the USA and Mexico, but these days he’s focusing on travel within Canada. There are videos on frugal camper renovations, camping spots, and plenty of exploring and meandering.

Favorite travel video: Latitude High: The Arctic Circle Campout

Mark Wiens 7.28 Million YouTube subscribers

Enthusiastic and energetic, Mark Wiens is a food vlogger who shares about South East Asia from his home base in Bangkok, Thailand.

I was first introduced to Mark’s Migrationology blog back in 2012, and I’ve loved following his transition to being one of YouTube’s most popular food and travel vloggers.

He features plenty of street food videos, with a strong focus on Thai food and travel.

Favorite video: Extreme Thai Street Food – CRAZY TOM YUM Late-Night Food Tour in Bangkok, Thailand!

Tyler and Todd 77K YouTube subscribers

Tyler and Todd are one of my absolute favorite channels. They’re funny, engaging, and have absolutely gorgeous videography and solid audio.

They’re a Canadian couple who travel with their adorable dogs Charlie and Eddy.

Because of the pandemic, they’re currently not traveling, but I’ve loved following along as they make a home in Nova Scotia, building an off grid cabin.

Incredibly personable and funny, they’re a treat to watch each week.

Favorite video: Gay Couple’s Routine | Living in an RV full time

Vancity Vanlife 145K YouTube subscribers

Vancity Vanlife features Chrome and his adorable bulldog pup, Cruz.

Chrome is a former professional DJ, so this is a fantastic channel if you love great music and great audio. As a former DJ, he has a fantastic voice for audio.

He uploads almost every day, and this channel is a throwback to early daily vlogs of YouTube. Videos are based mostly around Vancouver, British Columbia, but he does sojourn around Canada and into the USA when he’s able. It’s a great channel to get a feel for daily van life realities.

Favorite video: Winter Van Life In The Frosty Canadian Mountains… Is It Lonely Out Here?

Drew Binsky 2.34 Million YouTube subscribers

Drew, an American YouTuber, is definitely an engaging, entertaining presence on YouTube. He’s also controversial, as he continued traveling during the pandemic, and he’s garnered criticism for visiting countries like North Korea.

This is the type of channel that you’ll likely either love or hate.

Favorite travel video: He is the Ice Man (Wim Hof)

Project Amber 57K YouTube subscribers

Project Amber follows the adventures of a UK vlogger and his adorable Spaniel puppy, Lance as they travel in a converted ex-ambulance.

There’s plenty of great content in the archives that features road trips around the UK and Europe.

The man and dog duo just bought off-grid land in Portugal, and I’m looking forward to watching his local Portuguese adventures.

Favorite video: VAN TOUR – Ex-Ambulance Turned Offgrid Home on Wheels, with Log Burner & Upstairs Bedroom

Lost in Europe

Ash Pollard of Lost in Europe is a 27 year old photographer from Leicester/England.

As the channel title suggests, he mostly features van travel around Europe. There’s some gorgeous videography here, and I’ve loved his time in Scotland, as well has his new content on van life in the winter.

Favorite video: Winter Snow Storm Living In A Van / Arctic Van Life

Bald and Bankrupt 2.66 Million subscribers

Bald and Bankrupt follows the adventures of English travel vlogger Benjamin Rich, who mostly focuses on visiting post-Soviet states.

This channel is much more about meeting everyday people, and getting to know them and their lives, than cinematic scenes and views. It’s great entertainment, and I love that it focuses on getting to know people.

Like Drew Binsky, Rich has travelled during the pandemic. Rich was hospitalized for nine days for coronavirus in July 2020 in Serbia, which was not under lockdown at the time. He admitted that he was “blasé” about the pandemic, and has cautioned his viewers to take the pandemic seriously.

Favorite video: Inside The Belarus Chernobyl Zone

These are just some of my top picks for the best travel vlogs on YouTube channel to follow in 2022! I hope you enjoy watching their videos as much as I do.

Do you have any top travel vloggers suggestions that we missed? Let us know in the comments below.

Some really good travel Vloggers in the list! Thanks for the compilation!

travel vlogging is an emerging activity and i am also thinking of starting it in in dubai visit.

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Why are these emperor penguin chicks jumping from a 50-foot cliff?

The first-of-its-kind footage, taken in January 2024 via drone, captures a rare event that may become more common as sea ice declines and penguins are forced to adapt.

Like a group of teenagers crowding at the top of a cliff, waiting to see if someone will be brave enough to jump into the lake first, hundreds of months-old emperor penguins gather at the top of an Antarctic ice shelf towering roughly 50 feet above the sea.  

Motivated by hunger, the fledglings peer over the edge, as if considering whether they might survive a polar plunge from such a height.

Then one bird goes for it.  

Some of the onlookers crane their necks to watch it plummet and splash into the icy water below. Seconds later, the chick surfaces and swims away—off to fill its belly with fresh fish, krill, and squid. Gradually, other fledglings follow, tumbling and flapping wings built for traversing water, not air.

Filmmakers producing a documentary series called Secrets of the Penguins , which will debut on Earth Day 2025 on National Geographic and Disney+, captured the extraordinarily rare scene by drone in January in Atka Bay, on the edge of the Weddell Sea in West Antarctica . It’s the first video footage of emperor penguin chicks leaping from such a high cliff, according to scientists.

“I cannot believe they caught it on film,” says Michelle LaRue, a conservation biologist based at the University of Canterbury in Christchurch, New Zealand. LaRue, who did not witness the jump, had visited Atka Bay to consult on the film crew’s third year of documenting emperor penguin behavior, from egg laying to chick fledging.

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Ordinarily, emperor penguins nest on free-floating sea ice that thaws and blows away each year, not on the ice shelf, which is firmly attached to the land. But lately, some colonies have been nesting on the shelf. Scientists theorize that the shift could be related to increasingly earlier seasonal thawing of the sea ice caused by climate change .

The International Union for Conservation of Nature lists the world emperor penguin population , estimated to be about 500,000 birds, as near threatened due in large part to how climate change is impacting its icy realm.   (Read more about the bleak future for emperor penguins.)

In early January 2024, in the final weeks before the sea ice broke up at the end of the Southern Hemisphere summer, filmmakers spotted   a group of chicks that LaRue thinks were likely raised on the ice shelf waddling north toward the cliff. Curious about where they were headed, the filmmakers dispatched a drone for a bird’s-eye view. Gradually, more chicks joined the dawdling group, growing in numbers until there were a couple hundred standing at the top of the bluff.

‘I’m gonna have to go’

Gerald Kooyman , a research physiologist who has spent more than five decades studying emperor penguins in Antarctica, says he has only seen such an event once—more than 30 years ago.

“Drifting snow had formed a gently sloping ramp from the sea ice onto a grounded iceberg, and a flock of departing chicks had marched up the ramp onto the berg,” Kooyman writes in his book Journeys with Emperors , published in November 2023.

“They were stopped by a 20-meter [roughly 67-foot] cliff over a sea that was sometimes open water and other times crowded with ice floes.” Over the course of a couple days, almost 2,000 chicks assembled at the ledge.

“Finally, they started walking off the cliff,” writes Kooyman, an emeritus professor with the Center for Marine Biotechnology and Biomedicine at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography in California.

“Not jumping or leaping, just stepping out and falling head over heels, sometimes doing two flips before hitting the water with a resounding plop.” (See more incredible photos of emperor penguins.)

This phenomenon is rare, say scientists who monitor penguins from satellites in space. Peter Fretwell , a British Antarctic Survey scientist who has studied satellite imagery of the Atka Bay emperor colony for several years, occasionally sees penguin tracks going north toward that cliff. He theorizes that the chicks in January may have followed one or two vagrant adults that “went the wrong way, basically.”

Juvenile emperors usually fledge from the sea ice, hopping just a couple feet into the ocean. But these fledglings found themselves in a tricky location for entering the water while likely feeling extremely hungry, the scientists say. Their parents had already gone to sea, sending the message that it’s time for them to fish for themselves, and the chicks had been sitting tight waiting for their sleek, waterproof adult feathers to grow in, replacing their down.

“When they get to this cliff face, they’re like, ‘Alright, I see the ocean and I need to get in there,’” LaRue says. “This does not look like a fun jump, but I guess I’m gonna have to go.”

Resilient birds

While the scientists do not think the cliff-jumping incident was directly related to climate change warming Antarctica, Fretwell says the continuing decline of sea ice on the continent may force more emperors to breed on ice shelves, therefore making the behavior more common in the future.

Scientists have been concerned about the sudden decrease in Antarctic Sea ice since 2016 and the likely dire consequences for emperor penguins’ long-term survival.

“We estimate that we could lose the whole population by the end of the century,” Fretwell says. “It’s heartbreaking to think that the whole species may be gone if climate change continues on the path that it’s on at the moment.”

LaRue remains hopeful about the emperors’ ability to adapt, and she considers the recent high dive caught on film a testament to their hardiness.

“They’re incredibly resilient,” she says. “They have been around for millions of years; they’ve seen lots of different changes in their environment. It’s a question of how rapidly they’re able to deal with the changes that are happening—and how far they can be pushed.”

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