10 Reasons to Visit Antarctica Now

Wildlife, history, breathtaking scenery – there are countless reasons why a visit to Antarctica should be on the top of your list. Here are ten of our favorites:

 10 Reasons to Visit Antarctica Now

1. It’s Like Nothing You’ve Ever Seen Before

Antarctica makes an unforgettable impression on all who travel there. Unplug from the online world and immerse yourself in a one-of-a-kind wilderness. This is a destination that your family will never forget.

2. Wildlife

The fact that Antarctica is relatively uninhabited means that the wildlife there have no fear of humans. The penguins especially are extremely curious, and you will likely be approached by these unofficial ambassadors of Antarctica. You can see many different species of penguins, from the small black-and-white Adelie to the orange-trimmed King. Further south, you may also catch a glimpse of whales and seals in their natural habitat and breeding grounds. 

3. History of Exploration

Antarctica has a rich history of explorers and adventurers daring to make the trek to traverse this unknown land. See the remnants of an old whaling station on South Georgia and drink a toast at the grave of Ernest Shackleton, who led his stranded expedition to safety without losing a single man.

4. Science

As we all know, Antarctica is an important place for scientific discovery. Scientists are one of the few people who actually will live on Antarctica for any period of time. In addition to studying climate change, the clean air, stable weather, and absence of light pollution makes Antarctica one of the best places in the world for astronomers to study. This also means that casual stargazers visiting Antarctica will have the chance to see the night sky like no other place on Earth.

5. An Ever-Changing Landscape of Ice

The icebergs in Antarctica are unlike any other landscape in the world. No two icebergs are the same, and you will be amazed at the sight of dozens of them surrounding you on all sides. Due to global climate change, Antarctica’s rising sea levels and rising water temperatures are rapidly changing the continent and creating an immediate impact on this delicate, unique ecosystem. These changes make it all the more urgent to experience Antarctica now while you can still see this amazing landscape.

10 Reasons to Visit Antarctica Now

6. Photography

The captivating landscapes, drastic lighting, majestic icebergs, and curious animals all make for an unparalleled opportunity to take a photograph. Whether you’re a passionate wildlife photographer or just a passenger hoping to capture photos to take home to show friends and family, the pictures that you take here will be unlike any other.

 

7. Adventure

For those adventure lovers and adrenaline seekers, Antarctica is the ultimate destination. This remote location truly feels like another world. There is no evidence that anyone has ever stepped foot on this continent until the last couple of centuries, so you and your shipmates are truly breaking new ground on your explorations. In addition to exploring one of the most untouched places on the planet, you can also kayak through the arctic waters and hike on the expansive icy terrains.

8. Check It Off Your Bucket List!

Antarctica is the definition of a bucket-list destination. It’s remote, adventurous, unlike any other place, and not many people have ever been there. Additionally, for many people Antarctica is their seventh and final continent to visit!

9. Discover Onboard An Expedition Cruiser

There are now specific ships built for cruising in Antarctica, so take advantage of these new cruisers and enjoy the ultimate expedition through Antarctica. One of our favorite companies, A&K, has crafted smaller ships that have more flexibility in ice-strewn waters. Smaller ships also mean that everyone gets to go on every excursion, and every stateroom offers a private balcony!

10. There’s a Sale on Antarctica!

One of our favorite companies to work with in Antarctica – Abercrombie & Kent – is having a fantastic sale on their 2018 Antarctica tours! Their experienced expedition team will make all the difference in your journey. The team onboard your A&K expedition has gained unique insights through years, even decades, of working and exploring in these polar regions. Furthermore, each expedition has onboard lecturers that deliver lively presentations on a range of topics from the history of polar exploration to the migratory habits of seabirds. If you’ve ever considered traveling to Antarctica, now is the time! Contact your West University Travel advisor for more information.

West University Travel

10 Reasons to Visit Antarctica Now