Antarctica Travel Guide

Antarctica is the coldest and driest continent in the world and has the highest average elevation. It is also the most southern continent and has been barely touched by humans. This continent offers breathtaking scenery and tremendous and unique wildlife. It is almost completely covered in ice and is hive of scientific research with scientists studying climate change and the hole in the ozone layer amongst other things. Living within the pristine beauty and serenity of Antarctica are various species of seals, penguins and birds that are native to the frozen continent.

Tourism to Antarctica is limited to a few specialist operators as travel is generally restricted to organised scientific expeditions. Private expeditions must be totally self supporting and permission may be required from various authorities in order to land on the continent. It is governed by the 1958 Antarctic Treaty which establishes the continent as a peaceful and cooperative international research zone. Private travel to Antarctica is usually by commercial sea voyages with shore visits, specially mounted land expeditions or sightseeing by air.

This continent has no significant land plant life and no native land mammals, reptiles or amphibians. However it is home to many fish, marine animals, many species of migratory birds and penguins. Antarctica is a desert of huge sheets, shelves and packs of ice which cover nearly all of the continent plus the surrounding waters. There is hardly any snowfall or rain throughout the year. The primary destinations for those visiting Antarctica are Anver Island/Anvord Bay and South Shetland Islands. Here you can take advantage of some of the best wildlife viewing in the world or you can become a budding astronomer and gaze up at the cosmos and delight in an exceptionally clear night full of stars. Those who visit this ethereal landscape will be reminded of the awesome and savage power of nature.