MileHacker Logo
Activities & Experiences

Outdoor Adventures

The Antarctic Peninsula invites a range of outdoor adventures. Daily activities connect you deeply with this pristine environment.

Exploration Activities

Zodiac Cruising

Daily exploration of coastlines and ice formations. These cruises bring an intimate perspective of the icy landscape.

Landings

Excursions ashore on ice-free areas. Walk among penguin colonies or visit historical sites. All follow strict IAATO guidelines.

Polar Plunge

An optional activity for the brave! Participants briefly jump into the icy Antarctic waters. This thrilling experience often comes with a certificate.

Optional Water & Snow Activities

  • Kayaking/Sea Kayaking is an optional activity, usually for an additional fee.
  • Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) offers another optional water activity.
  • Camping is an optional overnight experience from select operators. Camping gear is provided.
  • Snowshoeing on gently sloping terrains happens during some landings.

Photography

  • An ongoing activity throughout your trip.
  • Abundant landscape photo opportunities.
  • Wildlife photography chances.
  • Bring a good camera and telephoto lens.

Zodiac Cruising Details

  • Expedition staff use sturdy inflatable boats.
  • Explore coastlines and navigate ice formations.
  • Get incredibly close to wildlife.
  • Often without landing for close-up views.

Landings Details

  • Walk among bustling penguin colonies.
  • Visit historical sites like old whaling stations.
  • Experience profound silence and vastness.
  • All adhere to strict IAATO guidelines.

Important Note: Environmental Protection

All activities adhere to strict regulations. These support minimal environmental impact and respectful wildlife viewing.

Cultural Immersion

Cultural immersion here differs from traditional tourism. It centers on learning about the continent and its science from experts.

Learning from Experts

  • Daily lectures from expert naturalists, scientists, historians, and photographers.
  • Topics cover Antarctic history, geology, glaciology, ornithology, marine biology, and climate science.
  • Citizen science programs offer opportunities to contribute to research.
  • Interactions with expedition staff who share their knowledge.

Not Applicable Cultural Activities

Cultural Performances & Ceremonies

Cultural performances and traditional ceremonies are not applicable in Antarctica.

Community-Based Tourism

Community-based tourism initiatives are not applicable in Antarctica.

Language Learning & Festivals

Language learning opportunities and cultural festivals are not applicable for Antarctica itself.

Relaxation & Wellness

Even in this active environment, opportunities for relaxation exist onboard. Facilities like gyms, saunas, and hot tubs support well-being.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Entertainment is typically limited to educational presentations and social gatherings. The natural spectacle of the midnight sun forms a evening show.

Shopping & Markets

Shopping opportunities are limited but offer unique souvenirs onboard or at Port Lockroy. Departure ports also have local crafts.

Relaxation & Wellness

Even in this active environment, opportunities for relaxation and wellness exist on board your expedition ship.

Onboard Facilities

  • Many ships offer gyms for staying active.
  • Saunas are available for warming up after an outing.
  • Hot tubs offer relaxation with a view.
  • Some ships include small spas offering massages.

Mindful Activities

Observation Lounges

Relaxing spaces with large windows present comfortable vantage points to watch the scenery and wildlife pass by.

Deck Walks

Enjoy fresh, crisp air and stunning views from the ship's open decks. This presents a simple yet profound way to connect with the environment.

Quiet Contemplation

The serene environment naturally supports quiet reflection and appreciation for the surroundings.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Onboard Entertainment

Entertainment typically limits to educational presentations, documentaries, and social gatherings in the ship's lounge or bar.

Nightlife Focus

The "nightlife" centers on camaraderie with fellow passengers and staff, sharing stories and photos from the day's adventures.

Natural Spectacle

The natural spectacle of the midnight sun (early/mid-season) or spectacular sunsets (late season) often presents the best evening show.

Shopping & Markets

Shopping opportunities are limited but offer unique souvenirs. Remember to shop ethically.

Souvenir Options

  • Most ships have a small gift shop selling souvenirs and expedition clothing.
  • Port Lockroy offers unique souvenirs and postcards with an official Antarctic postmark.
  • Departure Ports (Ushuaia, Punta Arenas) have shops for last-minute gear and local crafts.
  • Souvenir recommendations include Antarctic-themed clothing, postcards, and local crafts.

Ethical Shopping & Customs

Ethical Guidelines

Ensure purchases support local communities in departure ports and come from authorized vendors following IAATO guidelines.

Prohibited Items

Do not remove any natural items (rocks, feathers, bones) from Antarctica, as this is strictly prohibited.

Shipping & Customs

Items purchased at Port Lockroy ship from there. For other purchases, standard international shipping and customs rules apply upon return.

Onboard Gift Shop

  • Small shop on most ships.
  • Expedition clothing available.
  • Branded apparel and books.
  • Basic necessities for purchase.

Port Lockroy Post Office

  • Historic British base.
  • Unique souvenir opportunity.
  • Mail postcards from Antarctica.
  • Official Antarctic postmark.

Departure Port Shops

  • Ushuaia and Punta Arenas have shops.
  • Purchase last-minute gear.
  • Find local souvenirs.
  • Crafts from Argentina or Chile.

Additional Activity Details

Kayak & SUP Gear
  • All equipment is provided.
  • Guidance from experienced staff.
  • Waterproof dry bag for electronics is needed.
Camping Logistics
  • Sleep in bivvy bags on the snow.
  • Warm sleeping bags are provided.
  • All required equipment is included.

Activity Planning Considerations

Optional activities like kayaking or camping often come with an additional fee. Book these far in advance due to limited availability.

Activity Planning Summary

Core Activities

  • Daily Zodiac cruises for intimate wildlife encounters.
  • Shore landings for exploring diverse terrains.
  • Abundant photographic opportunities of landscapes and wildlife.
  • Onboard lectures from expert naturalists and scientists.

Optional & Onboard Experiences

  • Kayaking, SUP, and camping are optional activities for immersion.
  • The Polar Plunge offers a thrilling, memorable experience.
  • Onboard facilities like gyms and saunas support relaxation.
  • Limited shopping is available onboard and at Port Lockroy for souvenirs.