WHEN TO VISIT ANTARCTICA One of Antarctica’s greatest draws is that no two trips to the area are ever the same. In fact, visiting at different points in the austral summer offers entirely new and unique experiences each time.
EARLY SEASON
WHAT TO EXPECT • Visitors in November and December experience the reawakening of Antarctica after the long winter. • Icebergs are at their greatest mass and range from snow white to aquamarine. • Pack ice is beginning to melt and the 18 million square kilometers of the Southern Ocean that had frozen over opens up. • Landscape photography is at its best, as the days grow longer and the natural light illuminates glaciers and snow scapes not yet marred by animal activity.
WILDLIFE TO SPOT • Southern elephant seals and Weddell seals emerge onto sea ice to molt and bask under the Austral skies. • Penguins partake in their courtship rituals and begin to nest. • Orcas return to the waters surrounding Antarctica for the summer feeding season and can be seen near landing sites.
Photo Credit: (top) Samantha Crimmin, (bottom left & right) David Merron
12 | QUARKEXPEDITIONS.COM
Powered by FlippingBook