Antarctica: the fabled White Continent, one of the world’s last remaining wilderness regions.
It is an untamed territory of wild, natural beauty, as well as a land of superlatives: the world’s fifth largest continent, the coldest place on earth, with the highest average altitude and the lowest humidity.
The continent is devoid of a permanent human population, although what it lacks in the human factor, it more than makes up for in mammals, birds, marinelife and scenery.
Best Antarctica Tour Operators
Travel in Antarctica
From stunning views to unbelievable wildlife, a cruise-ship expedition to the great arctic really is the trip of a lifetime, and one to consider experiencing to learn more about everything from climate change to glaciers.
Most Antarctic cruises depart from Ushuaia, Argentina and takes a return trip to the remote Antarctic Peninsula via the South Shetland Islands. A huge variety of wildlife inhabits this part of Antarctica including gentoo penguins and leopard seals.
Leaving the world’s southernmost city, Ushuaia, the MV Ushuaia cruises through the Beagle Channel and on through the ocean towards the infamous Drake Passage, home to a phenomenal variety of seabirds and a fantastic opportunity for whale spotting. Along the way Zodiac expeditions explore the geology, history and geography of the area.
South Shetland Islands are a haven for several species of penguin (Gentoo are pictured, left, with two Chinstraps), Antarctic fur seals, cormorants and petrels, as well as killer and humpback whales, and hot springs for those who fancy an al fresco spa.
Sailing through iceberg-strewn waterways past gleaming turquoise glaciers, the first glimpse of this utterly unique land is the rugged grey and black mountains of the pristine and spectacular Antarctica Peninsula.
At this time of year the frozen continent is enjoying its austral spring, a time for breeding as the days lengthen. When the UK is at its wintry darkest, these penguins will be sunbathing in 24-hour days.
How many people do you know that have had the opportunity to go to Antarctica? Not many? Maybe it’s time to pack your bags and be amongst the first of your circle of friends to visit this icy paradise.