Guide to Traveling in Polar Regions
Explore Antarctica
Antarctica is arguably one of most pristine and unique destinations in the world. But what can it truly offer to travelers?
With visitor numbers rising on the White Continent, many people are now experiencing it for the first time.
10 Cool Facts about Antarctica
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The icy wilderness of Antarctica combines adventure with a commitment to preserving its pristine beauty. From its imposing ice sheets to its rich marine life, here are ten astonishing facts about this frozen wonderland that are worth exploring. Each fact shines a light on the most remote and enigmatic continent on Earth.
1. Antarctica’s Immense Scale
The Antarctic covers approximately 20 per cent of the Southern Hemisphere, making it the fifth-largest continent in terms of total area. It is almost three times the size of Australia.
2. Antarctica’s Unique Inhabitants
Antarctica is a unique continent that does not have a native human population. The region is a busy outpost for a variety of research scientists. The number of scientists conducting research varies throughout the year, from about 1,000 in winter to around 5,000 in summer.
Scottish cartographer John George Bartholomew first used “Antarctica” as the continent’s name, meaning “opposite the poles”. Photo| Ultima Antarctic Expeditions
3. Land Beyond Claims: The Antarctic Treaty’s Peaceful Governance
No one owns Antarctica. It is governed by the Antarctic Treaty supported by 53 countries. It established that the region will remain politically neutral. No nation or group of people can claim any part of the Antarctic as territory and countries cannot use the region for military purposes or to dispose of radioactive waste. Research can only be done for peaceful purposes.
4. The Colossal Antarctic Ice Sheet
The Antarctic Ice Sheet dominates the region. It is the largest single piece of ice on Earth. The ice surface dramatically grows in size from about three million square kilometres at the end of summer to about 19 million square kilometers by winter. Experts estimate that 90% of the world’s ice and 70% of Earth’s freshwater is frozen in Antarctica.
5. Antarctica, the Ultimate Desert
Antarctica is a desert with an extremely cold, dry climate. It is the driest continent on earth and one of the driest deserts in the world.
6. Summits of Solitude: Antarctica’s Towering Peaks
Antarctica has several mountain summits. A few of these summits reach altitudes of more than 4,500 meters (14,764 feet). The elevation of the Antarctic Ice Sheet itself is about 2,000 meters (6,562 feet) and reaches 4,000 meters (13,123 feet) above sea level near the centre of the continent.
Explore the extreme landscapes of Antarctica. Photo| Ultima Antarctic Expeditions
7. Antarctica’s Extreme Temperatures
Winter temperatures along Antarctica’s coast generally range from -10° to -30°C (14° to -22°F). During the summer, coastal areas hover around 0°C (32°F) but can reach temperatures as high as 9°C (48°F). Most of the area experiences 24 hours of sunlight during the summertime and 24 hours of night during the winter.
8. The Unique Timekeeping of Antarctica
Time zones work differently in Antarctica. Both the north and south poles of the Earth are outside the boundaries of an official time zone, and as such, they are considered to be in all time zones. This is because the longitude lines that are used to separate the individual time zones converge at the two poles. To keep track of time, most scientists stationed in Antarctica choose to observe the zone where they live.
9. Vital Waters: The Crucial Role of Antarctic Currents
The waters surrounding Antarctica are a key part of the “ocean conveyor belt,” a global system in which water circulates the globe based on density and currents. Without the aid of the oceans around Antarctica, Earth’s waters would not circulate in a balanced and efficient manner.
10. Marine Metropolis: The Rich Biodiversity Beneath Antarctic Waters
The waters surrounding Antarctica are among the most diverse on the planet. Upwelling allows phytoplankton and algae to flourish. Thousands of species, such as krill, feed on the plankton. Fish and a large variety of marine mammals thrive in the cold Antarctic water, depending on krill for their survival.
Experience land-based travel to the Seventh Continent, featuring unbelievable excursions!
5 Things to Know About Visiting the Most Remote Continent
Is an Antarctic Expedition on your bucket list?
It’s hard to know when and where to start planning a visit to the World’s most remote continent.
Ultima Antarctic Expeditions, experts in polar travel backed by two decades of experience in taking scientists and researchers to the seventh continent, has the intel you’re looking for.
Here are the five key things to consider before taking an unforgettable Antarctic expedition.
1. When is the best time to visit Antarctica?
The best time to explore Antarctica is from November to early February during the Antarctic Austral summer. This period offers long days filled with 24-hour daylight and more favorable temperatures, typically ranging from 0 to -10 degrees Celsius. You can visit an emperor penguin colony in November and December, during the peak of their breeding season, and witness the adorable chicks in their fluffy downy plumage as they prepare to leave the colony for their first swims. Ultima’s exclusive deep-field journeys cater to all ages and fitness levels, featuring expertly crafted itineraries to maximize your Antarctic.
2. Where do Antarctic expeditions begin?
Only a select few have the chance to explore the remote regions of Antarctica. Our expeditions commence in Cape Town, South Africa, providing a smooth transition from one of the world's top tourist destinations to the core of the frozen continent. A flight to Antarctica takes less than six hours, significantly reducing travel time compared to traditional and more arduous sea routes from South America. Prior to your unforgettable adventure, you will receive essential information during our comprehensive safety and guest induction briefings boarding our specially chosen aircraft, accompanied by researchers and scientists en route to Antarctica. Yet, nothing can truly prepare you for the thrill of the journey ahead!
3. What types of expeditions are available, and can I customise them?
Whether you're enthusiastic about photography wildlife or seeking an adventurous experience hiking to ice walls or biking across a frozen glacier, we offer tailor-made expeditions. Our expedition options include a 7-day South Pole and Emperor Penguins Expedition, a 7-day Emperor Penguins Expedition, and the 24-hour Ultima Day, perfect for celebrating milestones or special occasions. Additionally, we are excited to announce the exclusive Mountains of Dronning Maud Land photographic expedition for the 2025-2026 season.
Customization is definitely an option!
4. What can I anticipate regarding accommodations and meals?
What can I anticipate regarding accommodations and meals? All Expeditions come with polar gear, round-trip flights, ground transfers, luxurious polar accommodations, gourmet meals crafted by a private chef, and beverages. The Oasis Camp features a harmonious blend of sleek Scandinavian design with eco-friendly, modern functionality. intimate sanctuary accommodates 14 guests, offering private suites that can be tailored for couples, families, or solo travellers. Every detail at Oasis is thoughtfully designed to ensure a comfortable experience. Prepare for the creature comforts found in the world's finest retreats, with a highly skilled team committed to providing pampering and attentive service, especially after an exciting day of exploration.
5. How can I get ready for an Antarctic expedition
Getting ready for an Antarctic expedition is part of the thrill! To ensure a smooth journey, here’s how you can prepare for this extraordinary adventure:
-Maintain good physical health to enhance your experience.
-Make sure your passport is valid for international travel.
-Provide you with polar clothing gear, so you’ll be well-prepared for the weather.
-Please familiarize yourself with all environmental protocols to help preserve its beauty.
-Review the itinerary and safety guidelines for your peace of mind and safety.
1. Extraordinary Emperor Penguins
To land on a vast remote ice shelf and quietly approach an Emperor Penguin colony many thousands strong is an extraordinary experience. Emperors congregate for breeding in extremely inaccessible locations visiting a very rare privilege.
This November, as summer nears, Emperor Penguin chicks will be in their downy “Biggles suits” and growing in size after surviving the harsh winter.
During your expedition, you’ll visit a remote colony on the edge of the Nivl Ice Shelf, offering an intimate opportunity to quietly observe and capture stunning images of these remarkable creatures.
“If the weather allows we’ll aim to stay into the evening to capture Emperors in beautiful light against a backdrop of icebergs frozen into the sea ice.”
Five Magical Moments in Dronning Maud Land
Exciting Places to Discover in 2025
Read on to be inspired by a journey that blends the awe of untouched nature with the comfort and luxury of a modern-day, seamless Antarctic expedition, flying into Antarctica direct from beautiful Cape Town.
2. Extraordinary views
In Dronning Maud Land every flight is unforgettable
The expansive views over the ice are incredible, giving one a true sense of the isolation and stark beauty of the frozen continent. Truly humbling.
“A reminder of just how vast and untouched this continent truly is. We have some incredible flights in store and the pilots love to facilitate views for all.
For those lucky enough to join one of the expeditions, the aerial views offer a rare perspective that underscores Antarctica’s sheer scale and stark beauty in a way that’s impossible to grasp from the ground.
3. Exploring the neon blue Ice Tunnel Near the Schirmacher Oasis
Ice caves are not uncommon in the polar regions, but few compare to the otherworldly glow of the ice tunnel abutting the Schirmacher Oasis,
I’ve seen many ice features in both the Arctic and Antarctic, but nothing quite like this. The tunnel’s walls pulse with an electric blue, casting an ethereal light that photographers dream about.
Antarctica is a playground for the extraordinary, with expeditions suited to all fitness levels.
This hidden gem of Schirmacher Oasis is tucked away, just a short distance from Oasis Camp. It offers a chance to experience the incredible artistry of nature, shaped over millennia by freezing temperatures and relentless winds.
4. Relishing the Opulence of the Experience
After a day spent discovering some of the most stunning ice landscapes on the planet, returning to the exceptional hospitality of Oasis base camp feels like a true indulgence. Settling into our cozy accommodations and enjoying a warm, hearty meal after a day of adventure reminds me of the resilient explorers who came before us. It's hard to believe how the innovations of recent decades allow us to these remarkable places in such comfort.
Experience an Unforgettable Adventure From witnessing Emperor Penguins flourishing in the icy landscape to exploring the vibrant glow of an ice tunnel, and reflecting in the presence of towering mountains, these experiences will linger in your memory long after return home. Embrace the breathtaking splendor of Antarctica in a safe, contemporary, thrilling manner. Unveil the enchantment of Antarctica in every shimmering and sunlit summit.
why this Nordic nation is recognized as one of the safest and most peaceful places on the planet—here’s how to plan your ideal trip!
The best time to visit Iceland depends on what you want to experience.
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Summer (June to August) offers the Midnight Sun, with nearly 24 hours of daylight, and temperatures hovering between 50 to 55 degrees. It’s perfect for exploring hiking trails, waterfalls, and other outdoor adventures. It’s also the season for puffin spotting and road trips around the Ring Road.
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Winter (November to March) is the ideal time to go for a chance to spot the Northern Lights and soak in geothermal hot springs surrounded by a snow-covered landscape. Though colder and darker, winter also offers unique activities like ice caving and glacier hiking.
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Shoulder seasons in May and September bring fewer crowds, mild weather, and a chance to see both lush landscapes and early auroras.​​​
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How to Get There
Icelandair offers direct flights from several major U.S. airports—including New York City, Boston, Chicago, and starting in April, Nashville—to Reykjavik, often with affordable fares. This makes visiting Iceland, or even adding a multi-day stopover en route to another European destination with Icelandair Stopover, a budget-friendly option.
International airports
Keflavík International Airport (KEF) is 48km west of Reykjavík.
Travelling around Iceland is best done by car, with the iconic Ring Road (Route 1) providing a picturesque 828-mile loop that links key destinations such as Reykjavik, Akureyri, Vik, and Höfn.
You can easily rent a car at the airport or downtown Reykjavik.
"If you plan to drive, familiarize yourself with local traffic regulations; one rule that often surprises visitors is the requirement to keep your headlights on at all times." Additionally, be cautious of shortcuts suggested by Google Maps, as they may lead you to roads unsuitable for tourists or the less adventurous.
For those staying in Reykjavik, the city boasts a dependable and budget-friendly public bus service called Strætó, which connects to Keflavík International Airport (KEF) and the city centre.
If you're looking to venture beyond, guided tours, domestic flights, and ferries to remote areas like the Westfjords and various islands are great options.
Internal flights provide easy access to the Westfjords, Westmann Islands, Akureyri (for the north coast and Lake Myn), and Egilsta∂ir in the eastern part of the country.
During the summer, comfortable buses connect Iceland's main towns, although service is limited from September to May.
While car rentals can be expensive, they offer a fantastic way to explore, as there is just one major road that circles the island.
New visitors are encouraged to explore the Golden Circle, a 186-mile journey featuring stops at Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and the Gullfoss waterfall. Consider renting a car or booking a tour, and don't forget to include stops at Kerið Crater Lake, the Friðheimar tomato greenhouse, and Efstidalur II, a dairy farm along the way, where you can enjoy delicious ice cream made from milk.
Iceland's largest UNESCO World Heritage site, Vatnajökull National Park, covers 14 percent of the country and boasts Europe's largest glacier, alongsidees, ice caves, waterfalls, and expansive lava fields. Visitors can embark on thrilling glacier hikes, explore stunning blue ice caves, or admire the massive icebergs drifting in the many deep glacier lagoons.
Roughly 250 miles north of Reykjavik, the Westfjords is a remote region of Iceland known for rugged fjords, stunning waterfalls, and abundant hot springs. (It’s also home to Saltverk, the Icelandic sea salt made using geothermal energy, which makes a nice souvenir.)
Reykjavik, Iceland’s lively capital, a treasure trove of museums and galleries, geothermal pools, and diverse restaurants, all framed by stunning natural landscapes. Its blend of urban allure and closeness to remarkable sights like the Golden Circle and Blue Lagoon makes it a must-visit destination on any trip to Iceland.
Egilsstaðir, the largest town in East Iceland, serves as a gateway to Hallormsstaðaskógur, the country's largest forest, and the enchanting Lagarfljót lake, famous for its mythical sea serpent, the Lagarfljót Worm. This town is the perfect starting point for discovering the pristine landscapes and rich folklore of the Eastfjords.
Iceland's largest town in the secluded Westfjords boasts stunning fjord landscapes and a lively cultural atmosphere, hosting two of the nation’s renowned music festivals: the Ísafjörður Rock Festival and the Við Djúpið Music Festival.
