Why Travellers Are Choosing Antarctica Over Beaches, Cities And Deserts

It was once a place reserved for scientists and extreme adventurers. But now, Antarctica is everywhere - from Instagram reels to YouTube vlogs to influencer travel diaries. This remote continent has become a surprising favourite among seasoned travellers who have ticked off almost everything else. You will now find videos of penguins moving in slow motion, drone shots of icy plains, and brave travellers taking a dip in freezing waters - all shared across social media. Antarctica, once dismissed as too remote or too wild, is now one of the world's most desired bucket list destinations. So, what is it about this frozen frontier that is attracting global attention? Here is a look.

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1. Antarctica Is Still One Of The Most Untouched Places On Earth

Photo: Pexels

In a world that rarely slows down, Antarctica offers something hard to find - absolute quiet. Apart from the cracking of ice and the soft sound of penguins, there is nothing else. No traffic, no notifications, no distractions. It is not just peaceful - it feels like stepping into a film set. The Antarctic Treaty ensures that the entire region stays protected. The result? A rare chance to witness nature exactly as it exists, untouched by human interference. Very few places on Earth offer this kind of clarity and purity.

2. Wildlife Is Everywhere, And You Are In Their World

Photo: Unsplash

Remember those wildlife documentaries from school? The ones with whales rising out of the ocean, penguins sliding over ice, and seals resting on snowbanks? That is just another day in Antarctica. This is one of the few places where animals roam freely, completely unbothered by human presence. You do not have to squint through binoculars - penguins walk past you. With trained guides and strict wildlife regulations, travellers can see these animals in their natural habitats without disrupting them. For wildlife enthusiasts, this is the kind of access that feels surreal.

3. The Digital Detox Feels Like A Deep Clean For The Brain

Most expedition cruises in Antarctica have little to no internet. That is not a flaw - it is a feature. No doomscrolling, no group chats, no sudden “urgent” emails. Days pass where your only job is to notice the way light changes on the ice or to sit in silence watching an iceberg drift past. It is one of the few travel experiences today where you truly switch off. For many, this turns out to be the most rewarding part of the trip. It is a mental reset, without needing a yoga mat or a spa robe.

4. The Landscape Is Like Stepping Into Another Planet

Photos do not prepare you for what Antarctica really looks like. You will see icebergs that glow blue, snowy plains stretching endlessly, and sharp-edged peaks piercing through the fog. The whole place feels cinematic - some corners seem like Mars, others like a minimalist painting. As you sail through narrow passages or spot golden light bouncing off the snow at midnight, you will wonder why more people are not rushing here. If you enjoy photography, it is a dream. If you do not, the memories are still guaranteed to stay vivid.

5. Getting There Is Not As Difficult As It Used To Be

Photo Credit: Pexels

Once upon a time, the idea of travelling to Antarctica meant roughing it like an explorer. Now, you just need to pack a warm jacket and some excitement. Expedition cruises operate from Argentina, Chile, and New Zealand, making the journey far more accessible. Some trips even allow you to skip the infamous Drake Passage by flying over it. Yes, it is still a premium experience - but there are now options that cater to different interests, including eco-conscious tours, photography expeditions, and wellness-themed voyages.

How To Travel To Antarctica From India

1. What is the best time to visit Antarctica?

The summer months - from November to February - are the best time to travel. Wildlife is most visible, temperatures are less extreme, and conditions allow for safe navigation.

2. How much does a trip to Antarctica cost?

A typical trip can cost anywhere from ₹4,33,000 to ₹12,86,880 per person. Costs vary depending on your itinerary, cruise operator, and level of comfort. Booking last-minute or shared cabins may lower the price.

Photo: Pexels

3. Do travellers need a visa to visit Antarctica?

While Antarctica itself does not require a visa, you will need to follow the visa rules of your departure country, usually Argentina or Chile. All travellers must also follow environmental guidelines strictly monitored by tour operators.

4. What is the route to Antarctica from India?

Travellers from India usually fly to Buenos Aires (Argentina) or Punta Arenas (Chile). From there, they can board cruise ships or take fly-cruise options to reach Antarctica.

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5. Is Antarctica safe to visit?

Yes, as long as you travel with a licensed operator that follows strict safety standards. All expeditions are led by trained experts, and ships are equipped to handle unpredictable weather. Safety is always the top priority in all itineraries.