For centuries, adventurers from all over the world have gone to extreme lengths, and have faced harsh elements, to reach the last frontier: Antarctica. This southernmost continent is a virtually uninhabited mass of ice and snow.  So, on its surface, it doesn’t sound like a popular place for a vacation, right? Well, look again!  Come with us and explore the jaw-dropping, mythic beauty of the rugged landscape of Antarctica. Come and see the largest glaciers and icebergs in the world. Come with us and be awed by wild Antarctica!

Still need convincing? Here are just a few of the most impressive sites that you will not want to miss on the continent! 

1. Walk among thousands of penguins!

Without a doubt, one of the most spectacular experiences that Antarctica offers its visitors is the chance to get up-close and personal with some of the most incredible wildlife in the world. And what could be more fun than being surrounded by a giant colony of penguins? 

Antarctica is the number one destination in the world to view these amazing animals, as some of the world's largest penguin populations reside here. Antarctica, along with the Southern Ocean Islands, such as the Falkland Islands and South Georgia, are home to a variety of penguin species, most notably the yellow-crowned Emperor penguin, the Chinstrap penguin, the Adelie penguin, and the (aptly named) Rockhopper penguin. 

From the Antarctic Peninsula, to South Georgia, to the Drake Passage and Macquarie Island, Antarctica offers visitors the once-in-a-lifetime chance to walk among massive penguin colonies. When else will you get to be an arms-length from thousands of penguins? 

Needless to say, this activity is a must-do for all visitors to this wondrous place! 

2. Take a polar plunge at Deception Island 

Though Antarctica does not typically evoke images of bathing suits or dips in the sea, the polar plunge into the waters of Whalers Bay on Deception Island is practically a rite of passage for Antarctic adventurers. Located in the South Shetland Island archipelago, Deception Island is actually a caldera of an active volcano.

The volcanic activity causes the warm, black sand send to steam up in the air, and it heats the water, making the temperatures at Deception Island  much higher than other parts of the Antarctic. But don't get us wrong--it's still PLENTY cold! But the experience is worth it! 

Of course, if you're not into swimming in Antarctic waters, there is plenty more to experience on Deception Island. The island is home to one of the largest penguin colony in the world: the Chinstrap penguins. Over 100,000 mating pairs live and breed on the island--the sheer number will take your breath away! Along with the penguins live 7 other species of sea birds, as well as a variety of seals. There is much to explore on Deception Island!

3. Kayak with Whales

What could be more incredible than getting to spot spectacular whales from water-level? Visitors to Antarctica get to do just that! Imagine paddling lesiurely through smooth waters, gazing up at some of the largest glaciers and icebergs in the world, and spotting a large humpback whale flap its giant tail as it cruises by! Sea kayaking gives you the opportunity to see some of the world's largest animals up close! The Antarctic waters are home a variety of whale species, from humpbacks to minke whales to Orcas.To say that this is a humbling experience would be an understatement!

4. Zodiac through the Sea Ice

Explore the secret corners of Antarctica where a large ship can't go! Hop on a zodiac (a small, but very sturdy, inflatable boat) and cruise through the sea ice and icebergs! By doing so, you can catch glimpses of the more shy (and more remote) wildlife that lives in Antarctica. Watch elephant seals and penguins hunt for food in the chilly sea (and maybe even pop up beside you and say hello!) while you gaze up at snow-capped mountains and giant blocks of ice. Riding through the ice is certainly and unforgettable experience!

5. Take a tour of a cutting-edge research facility

Antarctica is the site of some of the world's most cutting edge research. From meteorology to biology, ecology, and seismology, these facilities are full of fascinating information--and even more fascinating people! TAke a tour of one of these spectacular sites, and learn about some of the current research being performed by top scientists from around the globe.And, if you visit the Vernadsky Research Base on Galindez Island, make sure to stop by the post office and send a letter from the southernmost post office in the world!

Of course, these experiences only scratch the very surface of Antarctica! From camping under the stars to helicopter rides to mountain treks and blood-red waterfalls (yes, you read that right!), Antarctica is full of mystery, beauty, and unparalleled wildlife. 

The only question now is--when are you joining us? 

Post written by: Grace Klopp