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Antarctica, the icy and pristine continent at the bottom of the world, offers a travel experience like no other. This remote and untouched wilderness is a paradise for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts. Embark on an expedition cruise, navigating through ice-filled waters and witnessing towering glaciers calving into the sea. Feel the thrill of stepping foot on the seventh continent, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes of snow-capped mountains, immense icebergs, and vast expanses of ice. Encounter incredible wildlife, including penguins, seals, and whales, in their natural habitat, creating unforgettable memories.
In addition to its natural wonders, Antarctica offers unique activities that make the journey truly remarkable. Take part in kayaking excursions, paddling through icy channels and getting up close to marine life. For the ultimate adventure, try polar plunges, where you can dip into the freezing Antarctic waters for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Immerse yourself in the serenity of this isolated environment, far from the hustle and bustle of civilization, and gain a profound appreciation for the Earth's last true wilderness. Antarctica is a destination that captivates the imagination and provides an extraordinary travel experience that will leave you in awe of its raw beauty.
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One of the many unique things about Antarctica is that it doesn’t have a capital city, nor does it have a native human population with cities and towns like other continents you may have visited.
When travelling on an Antarctica expedition, you will most likely be staying on board an expedition ship. The food you eat will depend on the tour you embark on. Most trips to Antarctica are able to cater to different dietary needs and provide delicious and nutritious meals.
Antarctica has an extremely cold and dry climate. In coastal areas, winter temperatures tend to range from -10°c to -30°C, whilst summer temperatures hover around 0°C and can reach up to 9°C. In the mountainous regions, temperatures drop below -60°C in winter and -20°C in summer. Precipitation in Antarctica is difficult to measure, but it falls as snow. As one of the driest deserts in the world, the interior receives only 50 to 100 millimetres of water (in the form of snow) annually.
No visa is required due to the Antarctica Treaty but there is a permit that needs to be obtained. If you are travelling by a cruise ship, it is likely your operator will obtain this permit. It is advised you check this with your operator prior to departure.
You will need to present a valid passport upon boarding a cruise ship or plane to Antarctica.
English is the most commonly spoken language in Antarctica. You may hear other languages spoken among the diverse group of countries present as a result of the global scientific exploration and tourism in the region.
Most expedition ships and research stations have their own power generation systems, which typically run on diesel fuel or other renewable energy sources such as wind or solar power. These systems ensure a reliable supply of electricity for scientific research, accommodations and other operational needs.
Check the power requirements and availability in your specific accommodation as adaptors or converters may be needed to match the voltage and plug types used in your home country.
Antarctica is governed by a unique legal framework established through international agreements and treaties. The primary treaty governing the region is the Antarctic Treaty System (ATS), which sets out regulations and guidelines for the preservation and peaceful use of Antarctica for scientific research and international cooperation.
Minimise environmental impact. Visitors are expected to adhere to strict guidelines regarding wildlife conservation, waste management and protection of historic sites.