How To Travel To Antarctica?

Antarctica being the last frontier of the world is the southernmost continent which is characterized by remoteness, extremes and wilderness. Antarctica is a place that many people can only dream about and which has been described as a destination that deserves to be called one in a lifetime. From watching whales and seals at close quarters when swimming alongside or around icebergs to actually touching the great ice sheet it is a journey that can only be described as an adventure of a lifetime.

But I would like to clarify that planning a trip to Antarctica is by no means easy and is a process that is very well thought out. Here is a guide on how you can travel to this icy wilderness.

Choose An Antarctica Cruise

One of the most popular and accessible ways to get to Antarctica is by using a cruise ship. Very few companies offer Antarctica cruise expeditions and the ones that do have their starting point in Ushuaia, Argentina. For these, the main itineraries are 10-20 days, during which, crossing the Drake Passage, one gets to the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands. While choosing the cruise, it is advisable to go for small ship cruises since the ships can sail through ice and the cruise line must have an expedition team on board. Find out the best time to sail, which is during the Antarctic summer, from November to March.

Obtain Relevant Licenses and Documents

It is important to note that Antarctica is governed by the Antarctic Treaty System; thus, people require some permits and formalities before they visit the continent. IAATO has certain requirements which include the IAATO Passenger Forms which all passengers need to complete and sign. The paperwork shall be coordinated by the tour operator of your choice below. Please make sure that you have a passport valid for 6 months before the date you plan to travel. You may also require certain tests or vaccinations especially if you want to set foot on Antarctica.

Wrap Appropriate for Polar Climates

Proper packing for an Antarctic cruise is very crucial. Make sure you have rain and windproof jackets and trousers, tops, gloves, warm and insulated shoes, caps and goggles. It is advisable to layer your clothes so that one can easily shed or put on an extra cloth when the need arises. These are some things that one should not forget; thermal wear, hiking clothes, anti-seasick tablets and any prescribed medicine that may be required. Don’t forget waterproofing your electronic devices too. Ensure that your luggage complies with other general cruise luggage policies.

Understand Activities And Excursions

In the case of Antarctica, there is a range of daily tours and undertakings to check out depending on the climate once you get on board the cruise. Using inflatable Zodiac boats, typical activities include, landing, trekking and visiting research facilities and penguin colonies. Shore excursions can include kayaking, cross country skiing, mountaineering, over night camping and much more. Choose activities according to the fitness level that one can comfortably undertake. These include the Lemaire Channel, Paradise Harbour and the Antarctic Peninsula that is already abuzz with scientific research stations.

The rules to follow when conducting research in Antarctica is a guideline that needs to be followed.

Yes, Antarctica is distant but it does have a code and laws to conserve the sensitive ecosystem and these must be obeyed. Ensure that you do not in any way infringe on the natural habitat of any wildlife in Antarctica. Minimize distances from penguins and seals and refrain from uttering loud sounds around the species. Avoid polluting water sources, leaving litter behind or encroaching on archaeological sites or structures. In this case, do as your guides instruct you at all times to ensure as much sustainability during your Antarctic sojourn.

Be Prepared For Eventualities

Due to the harsh weather that is experienced in the Antarctica, it is normal to experience some form of delay or disruption in the course of the trip. Expect that there will be changes to the schedule because of storms, swells or blocked sea ice that will not allow a vessel to get to the intended landing. Health care is almost non-existent so ensure that you carry with you all your required medicines. It is also wise to take adequate cash for any incidences that may arise and for any hitches on the road. Make sure that travel insurance for Antarctica is renewed timely. Finally, be prepared for the uncertainty and fluctuations and embrace them as a part of the once in a lifetime opportunity.

To visit the great white continent is a dream that comes through and is one of the best experiences one can undertake. Though there is a lot of preparation that goes into an Antarctic cruise, the rewards are indeed worth it – getting to explore the last frontier of Earth through ice tunnels on ice, literally, glorious glaciers and electrifying blue icebergs. Following guidelines to maintain low impact, you shall see seals, whales, and healthy penguin rookeries set off by glaciers and around the clock polar nights. Hence, begin preparing your dream Antarctica adventure today!

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