Antarctica is the southernmost and coldest continent in the world. It holds a unique allure that continues to attract adventurers to explore the remote wilderness and fascinating landscapes. With its diverse wildlife and untouched scenery, a trip here provides a once-in-a-lifetime experience. 

There are plenty of amazing things to do in Antarctica, making it great for a range of travellers. Whether you plan to explore the towering icebergs and the icy glaciers or partake in activities such as ice climbing and snowboarding, there’s something here for all. 

You will also discover a plethora of places to go in Antarctica, all of which have something unique to offer. From the beauty of Deception Island to the fascinating research stations, plus much more, you’ll find yourself needing more time just to experience it all. If you’re looking to explore the depths of Antarctica, keep reading as we have everything you need to know below!

To help make the most out of your trip, it is important to learn more about what to do in Antarctica. Luckily enough, we’ve already done the research for you and have provided plenty of amazing recommendations throughout this article. 

Whether you have been to Antarctica before or are visiting for the first time, there’s an array of places to see and things to do for all types of explorers. 

Try Camping Under the Stars

One of the best free things to do in Antarctica is to go camping under the stars. This provides visitors with an unparalleled adventure, alongside a true bucket list experience. Due to the remote nature, you’ll find yourself surrounded by stunning icy landscapes and a sky with the clearest stars you’ll ever see. 

As the temperatures are freezing in Antarctica, you’ll need to make sure you embark on this journey fully equipped. Things like bivy sacks and warm clothing are essential, it’s also important to try this camping experience with those who are knowledgeable and aware of the safety precautions. 

Explore Deception Island 

When looking for some of the best places to visit in Antarctica, there’s nowhere quite like Deception Island. Here you can explore one of the most intriguing and captivating parts of the continent and somewhere that brims with adventure. 

Situated in the south Shetland Islands archipelago, Deception Island provides visitors with unique terrains and fascinating history. Spend some time exploring the horseshoe-shaped caldera and learn more about the island’s whaling and scientific background. There are also warm geothermal springs here, providing a contrast to that of the surrounding icy landscapes. 

If you’re looking for somewhere with dramatic scenery, intriguing history and extraordinary topography, a trip to Deception Island won’t disappoint. 

Climb the Tallest Mountain in Antarctica

Antarctica’s Vinson Massif is something not to miss during your trip. This is one of the world’s 7 summits and provides visitors with a truly unique experience. Sitting at around 4,897 metres in height, the sheer size of this magnificent mountain is sure to impress. 

Climbing Vinson Massif provides a once-in-a-lifetime expedition and is surrounded by magnificent icy vistas across remote plains. However, the extreme conditions here can make this quite a challenge so it’s important to plan your trip with experienced guides who can ensure you tackle this mountain safely. You can find an array of tour groups that will take you up the mountain. We also recommend allowing around 14 days for this adventure. 

Enjoy a Kayaking Excursion

Kayaking might not be the first thing that comes to your mind when you think about fun things to do in Antarctica. However, there are plenty of excellent ways to hit the icy waters when visiting here. 

For those looking for a unique activity, kayaking in Antarctica should be at the top of your list. This is an incredible way to witness whales and penguins in their natural habitat, all whilst being surrounded by dramatic scenery. 

If you’re worried about the temperatures during your kayaking trip, tour companies in Antarctica ensure that you are fully kitted out in the right gear. With dry suits and cold water kayaks, you’re sure to enjoy all that this fascinating excursion has to offer, all whilst keeping warm! 

Take a Polar Plunge

Head to the impressive glacial lakes where you can immerse yourself in the cold waters as part of an exhilarating activity in Antarctica. This unique type of adventure takes visitors to beautiful parts of the continent to test both resilience and stamina by submerging into icy waters. Upon embarking on this experience, you will also witness lakes surrounded by impressive natural beauty and breathtaking landscapes. 

It’s vital that visitors only try polar plunges with the support of experienced guides. They will help ensure that you have the right equipment to partake in this activity safely. With insulated dry suits and protection against ice-cold temperatures, you’re sure to get a thrill when trying a polar plunge in the depths of Antarctica. 

Marvel over the Whales

For those in pursuit of what to see in Antarctica, the wildlife should certainly be on your itinerary. The continent is home to some of the world’s most impressive natural wonders, including whales. There are plenty of opportunities to spot these remarkable giants as you spend some time around the waters in Antarctica, however, some sites are better than others for catching a glimpse of these incredible creatures. 

You can either partake in a kayaking experience where guides will take you to some of the hotspots for spotting orcas and humpback whales. Alternatively, visitors can embark on a cruise in Antarctica that will allow them to marvel over the incredible groups of whales as they gracefully make their way through the waters. 

No matter which way you decide to see the whales in Antarctica, you’re sure to create memories to last a lifetime while embarking on this voyage. 

Experience Scuba Diving

One of the best activities in Antarctica for thrill seekers is a scuba diving adventure. This provides you with an unmatched opportunity to get up and close with some of the magnificent marine life that calls this place home. 

With crystal clear waters and impressive icebergs, there’s nowhere on earth that compares to scuba diving in Antarctica. There are plenty of spots to enjoy this activity, however, a diving trip is not for beginners here. With freezing temperatures and risky conditions, prior experience is needed before joining a diving excursion in Antarctica. 

Send a Postcard from Port Lockroy

A trip to Port Lockroy allows you to visit the world’s most southern post office, providing you with one of the best attractions in Antarctica. This is a great way to not only experience the most unique places on Earth but also another opportunity to get up and close with the friendly gentoo penguins, as there are plenty of them at Port Lockroy! 

We recommend taking a postcard on your trip, that way you can send something back home from one of the most secluded places in the world. 

Meet the Penguins

Another exceptional wildlife experience in Antarctica is a trip to see the penguins. This provides visitors with a heartwarming journey and something that shouldn’t be missed when on your trip here. There are several species of penguins in Antarctica, providing plenty of opportunities to spot these resilient birds. 

Whether you’re looking to hang out with the Adelie, Emperor, Rockhopper, Chinstrap, Gentoo or Macaroni, each of these lovely birds allows guests to encounter some of Antarctica’s finest wildlife. What’s more, they are also used to human interaction and are pretty fearless, so you might find yourself closer to them than you had anticipated! 

With plenty of excellent penguin tours available, the best way to experience these beautiful animals in their natural habitat is by exploring with a knowledgeable guide. This way you can learn more about the species, alongside the conditions they live in. 

Visit a Research Station

When planning Antarctica attractions for your trip, be sure to include the research stations on your itinerary. These are some of the best ways to learn more about science, climate research, biology and astronomy throughout the continent. 

During your trip to the research stations, you can engage in conversations with researchers who will explain some of the cutting-edge technologies and findings. Guests can witness firsthand the work that goes into preserving this beautiful and remote part of the world, providing a unique experience for all. 

What’s more, these stations are also located in beautiful settings, surrounded by raw beauty, allowing you to immerse yourself in even more of the impressive landscapes in this fascinating part of the world.

Hike to the South Pole

Hiking to the South Pole in Antarctica provides the ultimate adventure, even for the most avid of explorers. The journey will push both your mental and physical boundaries, providing a challenging experience for those seeking an unmatched voyage. As you hike through some of the most extreme conditions on Earth, you will find yourself overcoming obstacles and breaking boundaries.

However, the challenge of hiking to the South Pole is more than rewarding. As you push through this journey, you will encounter some of the most incredible natural wonders. With desolate landscapes and utter silence, this trip allows you to experience a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, leaving you with lasting memories. 

Upon arrival at the South Pole, you will uncover one of the best places to visit in Antarctica. This journey allows you to push your limits, all whilst connecting with the outstanding nature that this incredible part of the world has to offer. 

Cross the Drake Passage

One of the best things to see in Antarctica is most definitely the crossing of the Drake Passage. Visitors often get to this remote part of the world by ship, meaning that this iconic passage is often part of your journey. 

Drake’s Passage is known for having some of the roughest seas, as it is where the Atlantic, Pacific and Southern seas unite. The lack of landmass in the area also adds to the intensity of the waters, providing a choppy ride for those passing through. However, the weather also determines the severity of the sea, so it is possible to travel through safely, all whilst experiencing the famous water beneath the ship.  

It also serves as a passage for those arriving from civilization into the untouched wilderness that surrounds Antarctica. As it marks the start of incredible expeditions for many, it is certainly worth a visit for those exploring this incredible part of the world.

People often associate Antarctica’s remote nature with there being little to do here. But, as you can see from the recommendations above, there is more than enough to enjoy throughout this outstanding continent. 

Whether you’re looking to get up and close with the incredible wildlife, aim to explore some of the most remote parts of the world, or simply want to immerse yourself in pristine wilderness and natural beauty, Antarctica has something for all. A trip here provides unforgettable memories and unique experiences, so it never fails to deliver. 

If you’re looking for more incredible adventures around the world, Backpacker Boy has an excellent selection of travel guides to help plan your break. Browse the collection and get ready to embark on some astonishing journeys.