The Most Thrilling Adventures In Antarctica
The Most Thrilling Adventures in Antarctica
Explore the natural beauty of the last untouched continent – Antarctica. View spectacular mountains, get close to large colonies of penguins and indulge in awe-inspiring scenery.
Some of the adventures on this list may sound crazy, but they make for some really great bragging rights! I mean, who else can say they camped out in Antarctica under the stars? Jumped in the continent's freezing cold water just for fun? Or, completed a marathon in their harsh weather conditions?
With only about 35,000 tourists visiting each year, why not make yourself one of them? Create new memories, face your fears and challenge yourself on these thrilling adventures.
Go for a swim at Deception Island
Deception Island is known as one of the most incredible islands on the planet and for good reason. It's an active volcano with steaming beaches, glaciers and a flooded caldera. Imagine floating in a hot spring surrounded by a snowy, cold landscape. You can do this at Deception Island.
Take a Zodiac Cruise
Hop in a small inflatable rubber boat and cruise around Antarctica. Navigate through rocky waters and capture views of places regular boats can't access. Also enjoy spectacular wildlife views – seals, penguins, whales and more. Overall, enjoy the breathtaking scenery.
Go Camping
Grab your thermal sleeping bag and bivy sack; dress warm and experience the thrill of Antarctica by camping out under the stars. Listen to the crackling of the glaciers, the gentle sound of the water, view incredible wildlife, and watch the sunset over the horizon.
Visit the Lemaire Channel
Lemaire Channel is one of the top tourist destinations in Antarctica. It's a steep-sided channel that's approximately 5,250ft wide, runs for about seven miles and is located between the mountains of Booth Island. The scenery is said to be absolutely incredible.
Polar Plunge
Okay, so jumping into ice cold water sounds crazy, but, according to visitors it's totally worth it. One person said: "It was an amazing experience. The water was incredibly cold, and oddly enough the air was not so bad once you got out. Coming out of the water it's as if a hazy film has been cleared from your mind that you didn't even realize was there before. You can try to 'be here, now' all you want, but it's not half as effective as a good quick freeze to put your mind squarely in your surroundings."
Go Kayaking
Hop into a kayak and explore Antarctica from a whole new perspective. Glide through the icy waters, pass by icebergs and capture views of wildlife from up close. Make sure you bring a waterproof camera, as you will want to take tons of pictures.
Run the Antarctic Ice Marathon
Imagine being able to say you ran a marathon in Antarctica – now that's something to brag about! The Antarctic Ice Marathon will take place on Nov. 24, 2016. It's located a few hundred miles from the South Pole at the foot of the Ellsworth Mountains. If you prefer a half-marathon, opt for the Frozen Continent Half-Marathon instead.
Cross the Drake Passage
Cross the world's roughest seas on a cruise ship through Drake Passage. It connects the southwestern part of the Atlantic Ocean with the southeastern part of the Pacific Ocean. View a variety of Antarctica's sea creatures – whales, dolphins and penguins, just to name a few.
Hike through the mountains
Now that you have experienced Antarctica from the ground; why not view it from above? The best months to hike are December and January, when the weather is the warmest. One of the most popular mountains to climb is Mt Vinson.
Go on a helicopter ride
For the most spectacular view of Antarctica and its gorgeous landscape, take a helicopter ride. Witness tons of wildlife, incredible beaches and glacier views from above.