Have you ever wondered what people actually do on an Antarctica tour? Sure, the scenery is awe-inspiring and the weather is cold, but what more does this continent have in store for the intrepid traveller?
Actually, Antarctica is a treasure trove of untapped potential, especially for adventure seekers. Here we take a look at some of the ‘cool’ things to get up to while exploring the south pole.
Kayaking
Kayaking on the open sea is indeed an exciting experience made even more thrilling when you throw some icebergs into the mix.
Paddling in Antarctica is one of the best things you can do with your time. Propelling yourself through the icy waters and dodging colossal icebergs adds to the thrill of your experience while the scenery and tranquility gives you a unique perspective on your place in the universe.
Camping
Imagine spending the night under a star-filled sky in Antarctica. This is possible as many cruise operators offer travellers the chance to experience Antarctica at night.
You get sleeping bags, sleeping pads and a bivy sac to enjoy a truly magical outdoor experience. Hope for a clear sky and you will see the most beautiful colours painted across you with orange, pink, purple and red hues.
While spending a night inside a cosy cabin may seem like a better idea for some of you, this is definitely an opportunity that should not be missed.
Wildlife Watching
Antarctica is known for its extreme weather conditions. Cold, dry and windy; you can expect it all, and only the toughest animals can withstand these conditions and call Antarctica its home.
However wildlife spotting should be high on your list of to-do activities while in Antarctica. You may see penguins waddle through the snow, humpback whales breaching in the ocean, seals barking to each other and sea birds soaring high above.
And what about polar bears? You won’t see them here; what many people don’t know is that they are only found in the Arctic.
Snowshoeing
Antarctica offers plenty of hiking and snowshoeing activities that should not be forgotten about. This not only gives you the opportunity to stretch your legs, but to take in your beautiful surroundings as well.
Snowshoeing is a popular choice for visitors from November to January as there is the most snow on the ground.
Photography
From icebergs to hump back whales, dramatic landscapes and captivating scenery, Antarctica is a photographer’s dream destination.
No self-respecting photographer will travel to this icy continent without coming fully prepared, although anyone is encouraged to take as many photos as humanly possible!
Many cruise and expedition companies even offer photography programs for budding shutterbugs.
Ice Diving
Does diving under the depths of Antarctica’s ice sound appealing to you? Then you should give ice diving a try. See leopard seals and penguins in their natural habitat as you plunge to icy depths for the most exhilarating experience.
Some operators offer diving programs for those interested in the sport, although you will need to be dry suit certified and have experience diving in cold conditions.
Polar Plunge
Imagine stripping down and running into the icy grip of the Antarctic sea. This is a popular activity on the shores of Deception Island, where many a brave traveller has experienced the thrill of the Polar Plunge.
The shores of the island are thermal and sometimes very hot; therefore running into the chilly water will be an experience to remember. Most people only make it a couple of seconds in the water before seeking refuge on the thermal shore.
DON’T FORGET TO PACK THESE FOR YOUR CRUISE: CLICK PHOTO ↓
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Photo credits: Whale watching by Sherly Clarke.
8 Comments
While exciting, most these activities remind me of all the reasons I am not a fan of winter. (Cold) However, the wildlife spotting and photography would be worth spending the time in the cold. I just don’t have any desire to get into the water – no polar plunge or ice diving for me.
Haha well yes, it is definitely quite cold! Though tours to Antarctica only operate during summer, so while it’s still an icy world down there, the sun shines reasonably brightly, and I recently came home with sunburn! It’s definitely worthwhile :D!
I am like Rhonda. But Antarctica is such a unique place I gotta go to get those pictures!!!
Absolutely – the photography is unique! Which is not something we can easily claim for many places these days!
Camping? Wow, that would be super cool. I never even thought about camping at Antarctica. No photos or videos from the polar plunge? Ha. I heard about people running marathons there, too!
Camping indeed! Soon to publish a post about our experience – hopefully coming soon! Haha and jump over to your Facebook page for a video of the polar plunge – though hope you’re not easily offended by course language :D!
You just described my dream trip! I’ve wanted to go to Antarctica for nearly a decade (the price tag trips me up) but I’m only interested if I can solidly turn it into an adventure trip. This is a great mix of activities!
It’s definitely not a cheap trip, but is absolutely worthwhile if you set up a plan to save :) And yes, we were only interested in the adventure trips too – not worthwhile traveling all that way if you can’t get off the cruise!