Penguins and glaciers and icebergs, oh my! Pro tips and incredible sights to see in the Antarctic, including Drake Passage, Graham Land, Port Lockroy, Palmer Station, Deception Island, Half Moon Island and Paradise Bay.

Penguin looks out at icebergs and large cruise ship in the Antarctic — A cruise through the Antarctic isn’t for the faint of heart — but could be the trip of a lifetime.

If you’re an adventure seeker, the Antarctic Peninsula is the ultimate extreme destination. The Antarctic Peninsula, also known as Graham Land or Palmer Peninsula, is the northernmost part of Antarctica and part of the larger West Antarctic Peninsula. It lies about 600 miles south of South America.

The landscape is mountainous, and there are numerous volcanoes in the region. You can expect to see a wide range of wildlife, including emperor penguins, killer whales and seals.

“Altitude sickness might not be something you think of when visiting the Antarctic, but the highest point is 2.5 miles above sea level.”

Taking an Antarctic Peninsula cruise is the best way to explore this remote, inhospitable region.

Large cruise ship offshore of Antarctic Peninsula, where a person in yellow coat and backpack walks — This isn’t your typical cruise, that’s for sure!

Essential Tips for an Antarctic Peninsula Cruise

Find the right time to go.

The best time to take a cruise to the Antarctic Peninsula is during the austral summer, which runs from November to March. During this period, the weather is more stable and the days are longer.

Sunsets can last up to three hours — making for some spectacular photographs.

Plus, you’re more likely to see wildlife, as animals are more active during the summer. The first penguin chicks hatch in mid-December, so if you want to catch a glimpse of them, this is the ideal time to go. The whales also begin to arrive in mid-December, and there are plenty of them in January. The ice thins a bit, too, allowing tourists to explore farther south.

Antarctic cruise ship in ice-filled water — A luxury cruise ship plies the ice-filled water of the Antarctic.

Choose the right cruise.

Luxury cruise ships are popular as they offer a variety of itineraries and amenities such as all-suite accommodations, fine dining and experienced guides. However, don’t just settle for any cruise. Conduct ample research to decide if a large or small boat is more suitable for your needs.

A top factor to consider when choosing an Antarctic Peninsula cruise is your budget. You should decide first how much you’re willing to spend. You don’t want to go too high and break the bank, but you also don’t want to go too low and risk a subpar experience. With these criteria in mind, you can narrow down your options and find a cruise that best fits your budget and interests.

Pack properly.

The Antarctic Peninsula is cold and windy, so it’s essential to pack the right clothes for the trip. Bring lots of layers and wear waterproof winter gear.

Don’t forget sun protection, as the sun can be very strong even during the cold season.

Bring several pairs of gloves, a hat, a scarf and sunglasses to protect yourself from the elements. Ensure your clothing is comfortable and non-bulky so you can easily move around during shore visits.

Finally, if you’re an amateur photographer, bring enough memory cards and batteries for your camera.

Pro tip: Pack a power strip, as the cabins on cruise ships usually have limited electrical outlets.

Waves crashing over the bow of a large ship while crossing the Drake Passage — The roughest stretch of water is the Drake Passage — one of the most turbulent areas in the world.

Prepare for rough seas.

Be ready to face the unique challenges of sea travel, including:

The Drake crossing: To reach the peninsula, your cruise ship will cross the Drake Passage, where the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans meet. This is one of the roughest stretches of sea in the world. So you never know if you’re going to experience the turbulent “Drake shake” or the tranquil “Drake lake.” I recommend contacting your doctor for any advice before you go and packing enough anti-seasickness medication for this stretch.

Altitude sickness: It might not be something you think of, but the highest point in Antarctica is 2.5 miles (over 4,000 meters) above sea level. On top of that, the average temperature in summer is around -13°F. Drier air, less oxygen, intense cold and harsh winds can trigger altitude sickness. The best thing to do is to drink lots of water to keep yourself hydrated.

Know the Antarctic regulations.

To minimize environmental impact on the peninsula, the cruise industry participates in detailed environmental assessments. They also must obey international maritime laws and coordinate itineraries through pre-season planning.

While in the Antarctic Peninsula, you have to follow International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) guidelines:

Protect the wildlife.
Respect restrictions in protected areas.
Keep the peninsula pristine.
Respect scientific research stations.

Gorgeous blue skies, waters and icebergs in Antarctica — Thanks to the plays of light in the Antarctic, you can end up with some gorgeous photos.

Photographing the Antarctic Peninsula

There’s no shortage of picturesque views in the Antarctic Peninsula. Here are my tips to capture spectacular photos:

During the polar summer, from November to February, the sun stays above the horizon and never sets — a phenomenon known as the midnight sun. Take advantage of the unusual plays of light to take pictures of the same features from different angles and at different times of day.
To capture more focused and vibrant photos, use the color contrast between land and sea. The turquoise water will provide an eye-catching backdrop for pictures with icebergs and wildlife.
You don’t want your camera to freeze during the expedition, so keep it warm in an insulated case.

Red tents set up in the snow on the Antarctic Peninsula — For the brave, there are outdoor activities on the Antarctic Peninsula, including camping.

Adventure Activities on an Antarctic Peninsula Cruise

Here are some activities to look forward to on the Antarctic Peninsula:

Kayaking: Kayaks are a great way to explore the nearby glaciers and islands up close and personal. Just make sure there are lifejackets and drysuits for this adventure.

Scuba diver with head out of the water by ice formations in the Antarctic — Believe it or not, diving is an option in the Antarctic.

Diving: For certified divers, you can go 20 meters beneath the surface of the icy water. That should be deep enough to see the fascinating sea life. Whether you can dive largely depends on the weather conditions.

Camping: Camp overnight in Antarctica under the stars for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Just be sure to bring thermal underwear, breathable down jackets, turtlenecks, thick socks, and thermal under-gloves or warm mittens.

Hiking and mountaineering: Take guided hikes to explore some of the most stunning landscapes in the world. For experienced climbers, there are also challenging mountains to scale. Pack a pair of sturdy boots with rigid soles. Your tour operator will provide climbing gear, such as ropes.

Two gentoo penguins in the foreground, with large group of other penguins on the snowy slopes of Antarctica — Let’s face it: Penguins, like these gentoos, are a big draw of this region.

Sights to See on an Antarctic Peninsula Cruise

Landscapes and Wildlife

Some of the natural wonders to look forward to seeing in Antarctica include:

Unique landscapes: There are many volcanic beaches, frozen tundras and ice caves to explore. Also, melting snow exposes a rugged mountain chain that’s habitat for interesting plant life and invertebrates.

Penguins on the rocks by iceberg-filled water of the Antarctic — In addition to penguins, look out for seals, whales and other seabirds.

Wildlife: The Antarctic Peninsula has numerous wildlife species, including majestic whales and albatrosses and other seabirds. You’re sure to see different types of penguins, including the gentoo, chinstrap and Adélie penguins, as well as crabeater, leopard and Ross seals.

Calving glacier with parts crashing down into Neko Harbor — Neko Harbor is a good spot to try to catch a calving glacier as it sheds massive chunks of ice.

Glaciers: Witness the beauty of massive glaciers, from those towering above Lemaire Channel to the calving ones in Neko Harbor, which shed massive chunks as they go through valleys and deep fjords. Those pieces that have broken off? We call them icebergs.

Snow-covered rock formation in Lemaire Channel, Antarctica — Lemaire Channel

Giant icebergs: The Antarctic Peninsula is home to some of the world’s largest and most spectacular icebergs. These floating giants are awe-inspiring sights not to be missed.

Red buildings of the Paradise Bay Research Station, with people outside on the snow of the Antarctic Peninsula — Paradise Bay Research Station

Must-Visit Locations on an Antarctic Peninsula Cruise

Deception Island

First discovered by seal hunters in 1820, the island was named for the way it deceived explorers — both by its concealed entry point, called Neptune’s Passage, and by its seemingly safe harbor, Port Foster, which sits within an active volcano. The harbor is actually a caldera, where the top of the volcano collapsed and gives the island its ringlike shape.

More than 50% of the island is covered by thick glaciers and is home to various wildlife species. The harbor and its black sand beaches are popular destinations for tourists and scientists alike. There are also hot springs, where visitors can take a dip in the 98.6ºF water.

Half Moon Island

Half Moon Island is home to many penguins, seals and seabird species. Part of the South Shetland Islands, Half Moon boasts incredible views made even more spectacular by its crescent shape.

Paradise Bay

Paradise Bay is a popular cruise ship destination and one of the two main Antarctic ports. It’s rich in wildlife, including penguins, seals and whales. It is also home to a research station where visitors can learn more about the Antarctic environment. On a clear day, you can see the snow-covered peaks of Adelaide Island in the distance.

Historical Sites

Visit abandoned research stations, such as Palmer Station and Port Lockroy, to learn about the history of human exploration and habitation in Antarctica.

These sites offer a fascinating glimpse into the past, with artifacts and photographs from many decades ago providing insight into what it was like to be a scientist in the Antarctic.

Breathtaking Sunrises and Sunsets

Finally, don’t miss the breathtaking sunrises and sunsets in Antarctica. Get up early to catch the first light of dawn and watch as the sky changes colors from pastel shades to deep orange-red.

At night, witness the mesmerizing beauty of the stars twinkling above the icy landscape. It’s an experience you’ll never forget! –Kayla Gallocher

Icebergs in the Antarctic, with purplish sky and water — The white of icebergs and glaciers contrast sharply with the beautiful blues and purples of the sky and water.

The largest rainforest on Earth cleans our air and water. But it’s rapidly being destroyed. Here are 3 ways you can help save the Amazon Rainforest — including an ethical visit.

The largest rainforest on the planet helps keep our air and water clean.

As the world’s biggest rainforest, the Amazon has several functions crucial to our planet’s environmental health. Alarmingly, it’s also one of the foremost victims of the climate crisis. In 2022 alone, 430 square kilometers of the Amazon was destroyed. That’s over 126 times the size of Central Park in New York City.

The Amazon, which produces one-fifth of the Earth’s oxygen, is being cut down at an alarming rate.

Why We Need the Amazon Rainforest

While it comprises only 2% of the world’s landmass, the Amazon is responsible for producing 20% of the oxygen on the planet. One of its primary functions is to sequester carbon — or, in other words, gather large amounts of carbon dioxide and convert them to oxygen. Carbon sequestration benefits us by cleaning air and water sources. The process can even control flooding. This is why the Amazon is rightfully known by the moniker “the Lungs of the Earth.”

Unfortunately, the forest and its inhabitants continue to struggle against several issues. The foremost challenge it faces today is rapid deforestation due to agriculture, mining, logging and construction.

Ultimately, assertive legislation is key to reversing the damage done to the Amazon. This was made clear when Brazil’s deforestation policies in the mid-2000s eased the rate of destruction in the rainforest, according to a study by the University of Arizona.

Yet, while policies play a crucial role in saving the Amazon, there are many ways for you as an individual to contribute to its preservation.

A satellite image that shows the deforestation of the Amazon — the same image from less than a decade ago would have been all dark green.

3 Ways to Help Save the Amazon

In Brazil, beef is raised for consumption on land that was once part of the Amazon.

1. Practice mindful consumption.

The majority of deforestation efforts come about due to the production of items like paper, wood and beef.

Minimize your use of paper to help reduce the demand for its production. You can also check for an FSC label to find out if your paper was sourced ethically and doesn’t threaten endangered animals that rely on trees for survival.

Brazil, where 60% of the Amazon is located, is also a major producer of beef. The biggest beef producer in the region, JBS S.A., raises cattle from deforested Amazon land. On the whole, around 70% of the Amazon is deforested to raise cattle for beef. While not everyone wants to be a vegetarian, you can reduce consumption to help decrease the demand for beef production.

Consider volunteering for groups like the Rainforest Action Network that protest against the stealing of indigenous lands and the deforestation of the Amazon.

2. Connect with advocates and organizations.

There are countless grassroots organizations and initiatives dedicated to preserving the Amazon. For instance, the Rainforest Action Network (RAN) successfully pushed Burger King to stop using rainforest beef.

You can join local groups in your area or support larger ones like the RAN or Amazon Watch. They can use your help in their efforts to call out and boycott businesses that support deforestation in the region.

If you want to visit the Amazon, make sure you go through a group that focuses on preservation of this valuable natural resource.

3. Make an ethical trip to the Amazon.

If you want to see Amazon for yourself, be sure to do so in an ethical and respectful manner. After all, just like the Daintree Forest in Australia, the Amazon is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. To visit the Amazon ethically, look for accommodations that work with environmental preservation initiatives. These providers offer guides and activities that immerse you in the Amazon’s biodiversity. And you might even end up lending a hand to their preservation efforts!

Two adorable squirrel monkeys in the Amazon — These adorable critters, known as squirrel monkeys, are just some of the wildlife you could see in the Amazon.

The paper and beef industries are destroying the largest rainforest on Earth. Do your part to help stop these atrocities.

The Amazon and its rapid degradation is of urgent concern. As it is responsible for several processes that keep the environment in good health, everyone should be involved in helping preserve it. –Alyson Yesha Corbett