Over the years many people have risked their lives to travel Antarctica, document its wildlife, and conduct research. Ultimately the efforts of these early explorers made it possible for researchers, naturalists, and people just like you and I to visit this incredible place.
A news clippings from the early 1900s stated:
Men wanted for hazardous journey. Low wages, bitter cold, long hours of complete darkness. Safe return doubtful. Honour and recognition in event of success.
Nowadays traveling to Antarctica is much more accessible and comfortable.
I am here in Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world and the starting point for nearly all expeditions to Antarctica. Many people wonder, how do you actually get to Antarctica? Is it safe? Is it cold? The list of questions goes on and on...
While there are a few airstrips on Antarctica, one of the of the few ways to travel there is by Polar expedition ship, commonly known an ice breaker. There is a short period of time in which you can visit (November to March), because is summer season in the Southern Hemisphere and the ice has melted enough to navigate a ship.
On the ship there are nice cabins (usually 100+ of them), a large dining hall, a lounge, and even a library. You travel with an expedition team, who are expert researchers in the wildlife, plant life, geology, and so many other unique subjects.
Normally half your days are spent at sea, but there are actually a lot of things to do. Watching for birds, spotting whales, gazing at Icebergs, dining on delicious meals, and learning from expert researchers are just a few of the activities.
You may also visit many islands near Antarctica actually do not have ice (such as the Falkland Islands/Islas Malvinas, and South Georgia) some of the best places to see large King Penguin Colonies!
How did I survive 3 weeks in Antarctica? By hanging out with penguins, experiencing stunning landscapes, and climbing atop massive Icebergs.
If you could travel to Antarctica, would You?
Travel to Antarctica
Based on its remote location, Antarctica is a destination without much native food. While there may be few main dishes, we recommend trying all of them for the full experience! Here’s a sneak peek into what you can expect to eat when you head to the arctic: