Antarctica is home to one of the most stunning landscapes on the planet – and one of the most extreme. When you take a trip to Antarctica, to the most remote point on the planet, you’ll have the opportunity to see remarkable vistas of ice and sea, blue and white and a kaleidoscope of scopes between. Ice bridges, frozen landscapes, and phenomenal ice tunnels. Despite the harshness of the land and the most extreme conditions on earth, and perhaps because of it, you’ll see some of the most amazing natural features on the planet.
Though ice and snow loom large on the horizon, Antarctica features a wide range of other sights as well. Mount Erebus, the southernmost volcano on the planet, is situated on Ross island. This is an active volcano, 3,800 meters high and one of the only places on the planet where you can find an active lava lake. Since it’s also one of the most remote, this is a sight that few people will have the opportunity to see within their lifetime. Steam rises from the summit and scientists have found that the caldera was occupied by numerous organisms that survive in the intense volcanic heat.
Another phenomenal site is the Blood Falls. This is a waterfall nearly five stories high, flowing into Lake Bonney from the spectacular Tyler Glacier. It’s not the size that makes it remarkable, though. The water pouring down the falls is blood red, courtesy of the high salinity and iron content of the trapped lake from which the water flows. Once again, scientists have discovered a teeming ecosystem in this lake, despite the lack of light, heat, or oxygen. This is one of the most striking natural features on the planet and has captivated researchers and visitors alike since its discovery in 1911.
Here’s another gem: the fifth ocean on the planet. If you’re like most of us, you were taught in school that there are four oceans on earth: the Atlantic, Pacific, Indian, and Arctic. Well, as of 2000, it was agreed that the waters around the entire continent constitute the Southern ocean. The water is dark enough to be nearly black, standing in stark contrast to the white breakers. This is a majestic body of water comprised of the southern parts of the Indian, Atlantic, and Pacific Oceans. In addition to the sheer beauty, this ocean is also extremely important for the ecology of the planet. It carries powerful currents that drive ocean circulation and currently absorbs nearly 15% of the world’s carbon dioxide emissions. This is one of the phenomenal sites that you are guaranteed when you take an Antarctica cruise.
If you’d like to know more about Antarctica trips or how best to see the southern lights, feel free to contact us. We run some of the most amazing tours on the planet to bring you face to face with the wonders of the world.
