Should you travel to Antarctica? That is a question thousands of travelers ask themselves. Every year only about 40,000 people in the world go to Antarctica. That may seem like a lot of people, but 5 MILLION people go to the Vatican every year – so, in reality, it’s not that many. While many people want to visit, there are plenty of reasons why you shouldn’t travel to Antarctica.
We traveled on Hurtigruten which was a great cruise company, not too large so we could make landings consistently, and they were very knowledgeable. Learn more about my experience with Hurtigruten. Other than the people that were on this ship, I know three other people who have been to Antarctica. That got me thinking – why DON’T people go there? Then I realized, there are five really good reasons why people shouldn’t travel to Antarctica.
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1. The beaches are PACKED.
You know when you get somewhere and there’s a ton of people, blankets, and umbrellas and you’re trying to figure out where to sit? Yeah, Antarctica is a lot like that. The sheer number of penguins on the beach means you’re always on the lookout so you don’t accidentally bump into one (or five).
Penguins are everywhere!
2. No peaceful waters.
You could just be hanging out during a lecture, learning about history, watching the mountains pass by and then out of NOWHERE, an orca comes out of the water. The lecture stops (I mean, come on, I was learning about the first explorers to the continent!) and everyone runs outside to see the commotion. This was instantaneous. I was in a dress because I was expecting to stay inside for the lecture – but I wasn’t about to miss the opportunity to see one of my favorite animals in the wild! So I went out, bare legs and all, and stayed out there the entire time. Sure, couldn’t feel my hands, but my pictures are pretty cool!
The orcas killing a minke whale, interrupting my lecture!
3. Wayyy too much sun.
I mean seriously – it should be illegal to have that much sunshine in one place. One day of 14 with clouds. What is that? No rainy days! (It is a desert after all.) Don’t forget to pack sunglasses if you’re sensitive to the sun.
4. There are no computer screens or television.
I mean, if you can’t binge Netflix, what’s the actual point? You can go hiking, kayaking, hang out with penguins, nature spotting, and even swimming. But who likes being outside? Doing things in nature? Gross. When you travel to Antarctica, nature is king – so take it all in. If you don’t like engaging with nature, then you really shouldn’t travel to Antarctica.
Crabeater seal (they don’t actually eat crabs)
5. Sure, go camping, no s’mores though.
I’ve been camping my whole life and literally the most important reason is smores and campfire desserts. Do you know what isn’t allowed in Antarctica? Campfires. (or bathrooms. You have to use a portable one, and only for #1). If you’re expecting a traditional camping experience, then you probably shouldn’t travel to Antarctica (or go camping there).
Our bathrooms for #1 only – snow mounds for privacy
Read More About Antarctica
- How to Plan a Trip to Antarctica
- 40+ (Unedited) Photos to Inspire You to Visit Antarctica
- 30 Fun Facts about Antarctica
- Taking a Polar Plunge in Antarctica
- Camping on the Ice in Antarctica
- Traveling to Antarctica with Hurtigruten
- Ethical Animal Tourism Posts on Antarctica
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Nice and witty! Definitely caught my attention lol. Great blog..
Haha thank you!
Ahh yes, being crowded onto a beach with an endless sea of penguins sounds like a nightmare. Totally doesn’t sound amazing and like something any animal lover would love!
Absolutely not when you think about all the poop 😉 Haha!
Antarctica is firmly on my bucket list, for all the reasons you list why maybe someone shouldn’t go!
Haha! Well if you like all of these reasons then you should ABSOLUTELY visit. It’s definitely worth every penny! Feel free to ask me any questions – I’d go back every year if I could afford it. 🙂
Cool plot twist haha!
Howling at this. I have finally booked antartica. this had me in stiches.
The beaches are packed! 😂 These sound like all the right reasons to visit Antarctica!
Lol, you really had me in the title but it sounds great! I didn’t realize 40,000 people visited annually. I might have to look into it! Thanks!
Brilliant spin! I loved this post and I want to visit Antartica so badly!
I still wanna go! What a fun post about Antarctica hahaha must be amazing to witness all its beauty!
It’s truly a magical place to visit! I hope you get to experience it!
Haha! I love your take on this 🙂
I love how this was written! Camping in Antarctica is definitely on my bucket list; love the photos.
Worst night sleep of your life – but definitely worth it!
Haha, this is hilarious! I think I would love to visit a beach packed with penguins. Antarctica seems like such an incredible place to visit, with so much untouched beauty. Thanks for sharing your experience!
After everything, they were pretty considerate beach go-ers. They do like to poop wherever they want though haha
It’s on my bucket list and you definitely didn’t talk me out of it, lol. I don’t know though…no smores….that’s a tough one!!
It’s tough with no s’mores, but the views are so worth it I promise 😉