When you are thinking of adventure and fun you need to look for destinations that can make a difference.
Antarctica is one of the unique destinations that can offer you experiences that no other place on the planet can offer. It would be safe to say that Antarctica is not just any travel destination - it's a journey into the last great wilderness on Earth.
The sheer remoteness of this icy continent disconnects you from the modern world immersing you into a different world altogether. Even if you have never visited Antarctica before you would want to put this destination on your bucket list. With Wildfoot Travel you can focus on how you can make the most of your visit to Antarctica memorable.
However, it is also essential that you have clarity on how you want to spend your time exploring this frozen continent. Here you can explore towering icebergs, vast glaciers and unique wildlife that can make your experience better.
Here are some of the essential places you must explore when visiting Antarctica for the first time.
1. Deception Island
When you are planning to explore Antarctica you would want to explore some surreal locations that offer awe-inspiring scenery. Deception Island is among the most fascinating places in Antarctica that you shouldn't miss. This offers you a rare opportunity to step inside an active volcano.
While on the surface it looks like a horse-shaped island, Deception Island is not what it seems. When you are visiting Antarctica you would want to make sure that you take time to visit this island and explore the black sand beaches and various abandoned buildings and structures. You can also enjoy a dip in the geothermal waters. This allows you to enjoy a polar plunge in the warm waters of Antarctica.
2. Lemaire Channel
Commonly known as the Kodak Gap, Lemaire Channel remains one of the most beautiful places in Antarctica that you shouldn't miss. If you are visiting the frozen continent for the first time you would want to capture this place on your camera. Flanked by towering snow-covered mountains and massive icebergs, this is one of the most scenic passages in Antarctica.
As you cruise slowly cruises through the landscape you can see the reflection of the landscape in the still crystal-clear waters. If you are into photography you must bring along your camera to capture some of the breathtaking landscapes that are hard to find elsewhere. While you are here you can also spot penguins and orcas in the water that would keep you engaged on your trip. Lemaire Channel is also among the must-see attractions in the Antarctic Peninsula that you should not miss when visiting the continent.
3. Paradise Bay
As the name suggests, Paradise Bay is nothing short of paradise for landscape lovers and nature enthusiasts. This is one of the top places that you must have on your list when visiting Antarctica for the first time. Surrounded by dramatic cliffs and colossal glaciers this bay is one of the common locations that most cruise companies offer.
While you are here you would want to focus on doing more outdoor activities that would keep you engaged. You can visit and explore the iconic Almirante Brown Research Station where you can climb a short hill for a panoramic view of the bay. Also, you can do some kayaking in the crystal-clear waters and watch playful seals and penguins going on with their daily business.
4. Neko Harbour
One of the places in Antarctica that you can explore on foot is Neko Harbour. This is a great place that allows you to explore the landscape and wildlife in Antarctica. Nestled along the coast of the Antarctic Peninsula, this bay offers stunning views of glaciers calving into the sea.
While you are here you can also enjoy watching gentoo penguins handling their daily activities. You can disembark from your cruise ship, explore the harbour on foot and even go for a hike. This is a great way to explore the panoramic views of the harbour, icebergs and surrounding mountains. Having the right packing list for Antarctica would ensure that you have the right protection to keep you from the cold as you explore this harbour on foot.
5. Mount Erebus
Apart from Deception Island, you would also want to add Mount Erebus to your list. This is the world's southernmost active volcano and therefore many visitors make sure that they visit it when they are touring Antarctica. Located on Ross Island, this massive volcano constantly emits plumes of steam and even has a lava lake at its summit.
While you cannot hike the volcano unless you are heading for scientific expeditions, you can always admire the sheer grandeur and power of this mountain. While you are here you can explore various scientific research stations and learn more about what is being discovered and how this mountain is changing daily.
6. Cuverville Island
Home to one of the largest colonies of gentoo penguins in Antarctica, Cuverville Island is a must-visit destination. This is a great place for wildlife enthusiasts as they get the opportunity to get close to these penguins. During the breeding season, the island's rocky shores are filled with thousands of penguins which is a spectacle you should not miss.
You can keep a distance and see them waddle and dive into the frigid waters. If you are into wildlife photography you can always bring along your camera for some interesting shots. Apart from penguins, you can also look out for leopard seals and even humpback whales.
7. Elephant Island
If you are interested in history you would not want to miss a visit to the iconic Elephant Island. This island is best known for its connection with the legendary survival story of Ernest Shackleton and his crew who were stranded here for months before the help arrived. While you are here you can explore various remnants that reveal more about the survival story.
Located on the edge of the Antarctic Peninsula, this rugged island can provide you with amazing landscapes and views. However, the rough weather conditions here make this place a challenge to visit. If the weather is fine you can always focus on visiting this place that offers a unique blend of history, nature and geography.
8. Ross Ice Shelf
While you are heading for a cruise tour of Antarctica you would also want to have Ross Ice Shelf on your list. This is one of the best places in Antarctica that offers impressive formations of ice shelves.
As you stand on the deck of your cruise you can watch ice sheets floating hundreds of meters above the water and stretching as far as your eye can see. This ensures that you can make the most of your time and holidays in Antarctica.
