Skiing, Penguins, Paddling, Photography

Want to feel like a true explorer? Antarctica ticks all the boxes. 

Imagine kayaking through mirror-like waters next to towering icebergs, camping on the snow listening to whale blows, hiking or snowshoeing to beautiful vistas, watching penguins feed their chicks, Zodiac cruising past seals on ice, or flying in a helicopter over pristine landscapes that few humans have ever witnessed*.

And yes, it’s even possible to ski in Antarctica.

Experienced skiers can choose from ski or snowboard touring from expedition ships in the Antarctic Peninsula, where you can carve fresh tracks with breathtaking ocean views, to ski mountaineering or cross-country expeditions in the continent’s interior. 

For the ultimate challenge, you can ski the “last degree” to the South Pole—a once-in-a-lifetime achievement.

But here’s the thing: Antarctica is so much more than just a holiday. 

Beyond the incredible landscapes and adventure, Antarctica is a classroom like no other. If you go, it is essential that you attend every lecture, ask questions, and dive deep into understanding its fragile ecosystem and rich history. 

This isn’t just a trip—it’s an opportunity to transform from a visitor to an informed advocate, returning home to share the critical importance of protecting one of the planet’s most important wilderness areas.

If you are interested in visiting Antarctica, navigating the options can feel overwhelming. With seemingly identical trips online, how do you choose?

I can help. With almost two decades of experience as an Expedition Guide in Antarctica, I offer more than typical travel advice– I share insider expertise and boots-on-the-ground insight for each option, matching you with the best trip for your personal goals. You’ll get the most accurate information, ensuring you are fully prepared and only traveling with operators who I’d confidently recommend to my own friends and family. 

As you plan your Antarctic adventure, here are five things to keep in mind:

1. If skiing or snowboarding is your main priority, be aware that only certain companies offer these activities, and group sizes are typically small. Plan in advance to secure your spot.
   
2. Adventures like snowshoeing, kayaking, and camping are offered by more companies and are very popular. Spaces are limited and may not be available for last minute bookings.
   
3. If you decide to do an expedition cruise, opt for a ship with less than 200 guests, which will maximize your time off of the ship exploring either in Zodiacs or on land. 
   
4. One of the most important things to look for in an itinerary is the number of days you will have the ability to get off the ship to explore. I call these “operation days”. The more “operation days” the better, since weather is unpredictable and distances are far. If you want help deciphering itineraries, join the group “Antarctica Travel – from Bucket List to Booked” where there is a ton of info about stuff like this, as well as where to go, and how to choose the right trip for you.
   
5. Antarctica is unlike any other destination.There is no guarantee that you will go to specific places or see certain animals. The wind and ice dictate everything and you can expect plans to change and activities to possibly be canceled. No two trips are ever the same-embrace the joy of the journey!
    

Curious to learn more? Or ready to transform your Antarctic dreams into reality? 

I invite you to join my online communities where we share all things Antarctica.

In “The Antarctic Experience” our members share their photos, videos, and experiences, as well as share news and learn about Antarctica.

For personalized travel advice, insider tips from myself and other expedition guides, as well as private access to a variety of webinars about expedition travel to Antarctica, “Antarctica Travel – from Bucket List to Booked” is the place to be.

And if you are overwhelmed or just want some free one-on-one help to find the perfect expedition for you, filling out this trip planner will get you in touch with my friends, partners, and polar travel specialists – all of whom are expedition guides like myself having worked in Antarctica for decades on the actual voyages you might consider. 

Of course, you are also welcome to email me directly at lori@oceanlori.com with any questions – I’d be thrilled to guide you! 

*Fun Fact: In the 2023-24 season, just 0.00155% of the world’s population—124,262 visitors—explored Antarctica, with only 81,038 setting foot on the continent. Will you be next?

With two decades of experience as an expedition guide, speaker, and photographer, Lori Gross is dedicated to educating people about Antarctica—whether they dream of visiting or simply want to learn more. She also helps travelers choose their best trip through expert guidance, insider info, and personalized support. Join the adventure at www.theantarcticexperience.com and sign up for our mailing list to stay connected with all things Antarctica.