The first time I visited Antarctica, I was overcome by the raw nature and exceptional beauty the world’s southernmost (and least visited) continent offers. Towering icebergs, vast glaciers, and curious wildlife are ever present throughout the voyage.
If you have yet to travel to Antarctica, it’s one of the few places I have visited that offers full immersion in the natural world and is incomparable to other destinations.
If you plan to visit Antarctica in 2025, you’re in for a treat. This guide will help you discover some of my favourite destinations and hidden gems that make this icy wilderness a must-see place.
Whether you choose the well-travelled Antarctic Peninsula or the lesser-visited Ross Sea region, each location in Antarctica offers unique sights and experiences.
Imagine watching emperor penguins up close on a Weddell Sea icebreaker cruise or Zodiac cruising through Antarctica’s iceberg-filled waters. These are just a few activities that will bring you closer to nature.
Travelling to Antarctica is not just about reaching the destinations, but also about the journey itself. It’s a rare opportunity to slow down, breathe in the freshest air on the planet, and immerse yourself in adventure activities that draw you into the natural world.
With proper planning (and that’s where we come in), your 2025 Antarctic voyage will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience filled with exploration, learning, and immersive natural beauty.
The Antarctic Peninsula is often called the gateway to Antarctica due to its accessibility to expedition ships and captivating landscapes. This northernmost part of the continent is one of the most popular spots for visitors. Here, you can witness breathtaking views of towering icebergs, jagged mountain peaks, and expansive glaciers.
As the interior of Antarctica is a frozen desert, the animals that migrate to Antarctica during the summer live close to the coastline. The Peninsula is an excellent area for wildlife viewing, with many opportunities to see different species of penguins, seals, and whales in their natural habitats. Landing sites on the Peninsula allow you to set foot on the continent and explore this unique environment firsthand with expert polar guides.
The South Shetland Islands are an island chain located approximately 60 miles North of the Antarctic Peninsula. The islands are often the first land you will sight in Antarctica after the 2-day sailing across the Drake Passage, and usually your first stopping-off point. Depending on the conditions whilst crossing the Drake, they could provide some much-needed respite!
The South Shetland Islands are known for their rich biodiversity, which makes them a favourite among wildlife watchers. You’ll find yourself up close to vast colonies of Chinstrap, Gentoo, and Adélie penguins and numerous seal species and seabirds.
The islands are also home to scientific research stations, which offer a glimpse into the work conducted in this remote part of the world.
Visiting the South Shetland Islands is an excellent introduction to the beauty of Antarctica’s wildlife before sailing further south to the Peninsula.
Deception Island is one of my favourite destinations in Antarctica. This volcanic island is shaped like a ring, with a large flooded caldera forming a natural harbour that can’t be seen from the sea (hence the name). Its narrow entrance is aptly named Neptune’s Bellows due to the wind that blows through it. It’s one of the few places in the world where ships can sail directly into the centre of a volcano.
The island’s volcanic activity has created unique landscapes, including black sand beaches and steaming geothermal springs (A perfect place for a polar plunge!). Deception Island also has a rich history, with remnants of old whaling stations and scientific outposts scattered around the caldera. Exploring this volcanic hotspot provides a fascinating look into the geologic forces that shape our planet.
Lemaire Channel is often dubbed the “Kodak Gap” because of its stunning photographic opportunities. This narrow channel, flanked by towering cliffs and glaciers, offers some of the most beautiful scenery in Antarctica. Sailing through the Lemaire Channel provides a sense of being surrounded by towering ice walls, often reflected perfectly in the calm waters. This picturesque setting is a favourite for capturing breathtaking photos of the Antarctic landscape, making it a must-visit spot for any photography enthusiast.
One of the wildlife highlights of any Antarctic trip is the chance to see emperor penguins in their natural habitat. These majestic birds, the largest penguin species, overwinter in Antarctica.
Unlike other penguins, Emperor Penguins live further inland, making them harder to see than other species. The reward of visiting emperor penguin colonies allows you to observe their intriguing social structure, from the care of chicks to the impressive courtship rituals. Seeing a large group of emperor penguins huddling together on the ice is an unforgettable experience and a rare opportunity to witness one of nature’s most remarkable spectacles.
Top Tip: Emperor Penguins live in isolated areas and are usually only seen on specialist expeditions. If you want to see Emperor Penguins, please ask us, and we will recommend the best expeditions.
The Ross Ice Shelf is the largest in Antarctica, spanning an area roughly the size of France. This colossal floating ice platform is a key feature of the continent’s landscape and is crucial to the Antarctic ecosystem. Visitors to the Ross Ice Shelf can witness its vast expanse of ice, towering ice cliffs, and the dramatic calving of icebergs into the sea. The sheer scale and beauty of the Ross Ice Shelf make it a unique natural wonder and a highlight for anyone exploring Antarctica’s icy frontier.
Top Tip: To visit the Ross Sea Ice Shelf, choose an expedition to East Antarctica.
Paulet Island is a remote spot that offers a unique penguin-viewing experience. This tiny volcanic island is home to one of the largest colonies of Adelie penguins. It is an extraordinary sight to watch thousands of penguins bustling about, building nests, and caring for their chicks. The island’s rocky terrain and historic ruins of the Nordenskiöld expedition hut add to its intriguing character. Paulet Island is an ideal location for those who want to witness the lively behaviour of penguins in a relatively undisturbed environment.
Pleneau Island, also known as the Iceberg Graveyard, is renowned for its captivating array of icebergs. The island’s shallow waters cause icebergs to become stranded, creating a surreal landscape of towering ice sculptures. Each iceberg varies in shape, size, and colour, offering countless photographic opportunities. Exploring this area by Zodiac boat allows you to navigate around the icebergs and appreciate their intricate details up close. Pleneau Island is a hidden gem that showcases the mesmerizing beauty of Antarctica’s frozen wonders.
Port Lockroy is a historic site on Goudier Island that provides a fascinating glimpse into Antarctica’s past. Once a British research station, it now serves as a museum and post office, managed by the United Kingdom Antarctic Heritage Trust. Visitors can explore the well-preserved buildings, learn about the lives of early polar researchers, and even send postcards from the world’s southernmost post office. The site also features a small colony of gentoo penguins, making it a charming blend of history and wildlife. Port Lockroy is a must-visit for those interested in the human history of Antarctica.
Zodiac excursions are a staple of Antarctic exploration, allowing travellers to explore the continent’s remote corners and get close to nature. These inflatable boats are perfect for getting close to icebergs, navigating through narrow channels, and landing on isolated shores.
Wildlife safaris conducted via Zodiac can bring you face-to-face with penguins, seals, and sometimes even whales. Expert polar guides and naturalists provide insights into the ecosystem and ensure safe interactions with wildlife.
Zodiac excursions are included on all expeditions and add an element of excitement and discovery to any Antarctic trip.
Kayaking in Antarctica offers a unique, close-up perspective of the icy landscape. Paddling through calm, iceberg-dotted waters allows you to explore places larger vessels cannot reach. Kayakers can glide past towering ice cliffs and quiet bays and even spot wildlife like seals and penguins swimming nearby. This activity combines the thrill of adventure with the peacefulness of the Antarctic environment, creating a memorable experience for anyone willing to venture into the chilly waters.
Top Tip: Kayaking is an optional activity on many of our expeditions. To find the best kayaking adventures, please ask us, and we will recommend the best expeditions for kayaking.
For those seeking an immersive experience, camping on the Antarctic ice is an unparalleled adventure. Spending a night under the polar sky amidst the silent, icy wilderness provides a deep connection to the environment. Campers are equipped with specialized gear to stay warm and safe. This activity offers the rare opportunity to witness Antarctica’s vast, untouched beauty at night, possibly even spotting the Southern Lights. Camping on the ice is ideal for adventurers looking to add a touch of wilderness to their Antarctic journey.
Top Tip: Camping is an optional activity available on select expeditions. To find the best camping trips in Antarctica, please ask us.
Antarctica has awe-inspiring landscapes, unique wildlife, and unforgettable adventures. Each location offers its own set of wonders, from iconic landmarks like the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands to hidden gems such as Paulet Island and Port Lockroy. The pristine environment and the array of activities, including kayaking amidst icebergs and overnight camping, make it a destination like no other.
For a truly unforgettable experience, plan your journey to include both well-known sites and lesser-visited areas.
Whether you encounter the beauty of the Lemaire Channel, observe emperor penguins in their natural habitat, or explore the vast Ross Ice Shelf, each moment spent in Antarctica will leave a lasting impression. There is, indeed, no place like it.
So, are you ready to embark on your Antarctic adventure in 2025? Join North Pole Cruises and explore the wonders of this icy continent. Our specialized small ship and luxury expedition cruises ensure you experience the best of what Antarctica has to offer. Book your Antarctica cruise now and start your unforgettable journey to the last frontier!
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