Antarctica is a land of hyperboles and extremes. Located in the far south of the world, Antarctica is an ice-clad continent that grows more than double in size during the winter months, a season where all but the most determined abandon the land. In the winter, perpetual darkness swathes the region, and falling temperatures drop to a low of -90oC. Port Martin, with average wind speeds of 64km/h, is the windiest place in the world. Though Antarctica has the biggest store of freshwater on earth, it is also the driest continent. The water is stored as an ice shelf that raises the continent up to an average elevation of 7000ft, creating stunningly beautiful icebergs, endless glaciers and pristine landscapes of ice. The peak of summer raises temperatures up to 10oC and constant daylight offers ample time to visit the local inhabitants, including seals and penguin colonies. Extremely hardy and adventurous types can tackle Mount Vinson, the tallest peak in Antarctica and one of the world’s 7 summits. On the way back, stop over at Deception Island, where bubbling hot springs offer a relaxing soak amidst towering ice shelves.
Log In