Expeditions to Antarctica

2008-01-29 10:18:31

( Travel )



Antarctica, a Little-Known Frontier

The southernmost continent of the world is also the least known, and Antarctica today still remains unoccupied by human residents except for temporary science groups. Its most famous occupants are penguins, as well as seals and various sea birds. About 98% of the continent is covered by a huge thick ice sheet, and holds about 70% of the world's fresh water. Mean temperatures during summer average about ten degrees Celsius near the coast, but can drop to minus eighty degrees in winter.

In fact, the continent had only been discovered and explored during the nineteenth century. Because of a treaty signed by twelve nations, no country owns any part of the continent, and any Antarctic expeditions are for scientific research and study. Instead, several nations like the United States have established research stations in various places around the continent.

Expeditions to Antarctica for Tourists

Recently, guided expeditions to Antarctica have been organized not just to accommodate scientists and researchers, but tourists as well.

In most cases, you have to fly from your country of origin to a major airport in Chile or Argentina, and then take another flight to the southernmost city of South America.

From there, you will join scientists and naturalists on a cruise ship to the coasts of Antarctica. Cruise ships to Antarctica have all the amenities you want in a luxury cruise, with the added benefit of being able to interact with scientists and naturalists on board, who will fill you with facts and findings about the continent and its resources.

Perhaps the most intriguing part of the expedition is that you can go on the shore with real explorers as your guides. You can have a face-to-face encounter with Antarctica's wildlife, particularly penguins and sea lions, right in their natural habitats.

How to Book Expeditions to Antarctica

You can check for special expeditions to Antarctica via the Internet. Several travel companies, like Lindblad Expeditions, have periodic organized trips. Expeditions to Antarctica usually last several weeks, especially if you want to include side trips to other places in South America or Australia.

A typical Antarctica expedition is not cheap, since it costs several thousands of dollars. But if you have the money to spare and are genuinely interested in learning more about Antarctica, the benefits you will receive from this unique lifetime experience will outweigh the costs.


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