Livingston Island

The first Antarctic landfall for most expeditions

Livingston Island — Glaciated peaks and mixed penguin colonies

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Hannah Point Wildlife colony

Rich landing with chinstrap and gentoo penguins, plus a few macaronis.

Best time: Nov–Feb — Breeding season concentrates several penguin species in one spot.

Things to do:

• Explore the volcanic rock formations and lava flows
• Observe penguin colonies on the black sand beaches
• Photograph the unique dark volcanic landscape
• Examine fossilized remains and geological evidence

Walker Bay Beach

Volcanic beach of eroded rock formations and lounging elephant seals.

Best time: Nov–Mar — Summer haul-outs bring seals ashore along the dark-sand beach.

Things to do:

• Cruise the scenic bay observing icebergs and wildlife
• Watch elephant seals and fur seals on coastal areas
• Photograph glacial outflows and ice formations
• Document bird species in the marine environment

Juan Carlos I Station Research base

Spanish summer research station beneath the island's ice-capped mountains.

Best time: Dec–Feb — The base runs only in high summer when access is possible.

Things to do:

• Visit the Spanish Antarctic research and logistics base
• Tour modern research facilities and equipment
• Meet scientists and learn about current projects
• Discuss Spain's Antarctic territorial interests and science

Byers Peninsula Wildlife colony

Protected ice-free peninsula rich in wildlife and archaeological relics.

Best time: Nov–Feb — Early summer offers active wildlife and firmer, snow-free ground.

Things to do:

• Trek across the ice-free Antarctic terrain
• Observe rare tundra vegetation and moss gardens
• Photograph the barren landscape and geological features
• Study unique Antarctic soil and climate conditions

Deception Island Viewpoint

Active volcanic geothermal site near Livingston Island in South Shetlands.

Best time: Nov–Feb — Unique combination of volcanic geology and accessible warm water thermal pools.

Things to do:

• Bathe in natural geothermal pools
• Walk volcanic black sand beaches
• Explore volcanic crater and research stations

From the notebook

Snow began falling sideways just as we reached the colony, and the penguins seemed entirely unbothered, tucked low against a wind that had my hands numb inside two glove layers. Our guide pointed out a leopard seal patrolling offshore, a dark shape cutting slow figures through water the color of gunmetal.

Arriving

• Fly into USH · Ushuaia, Argentina — Board in Ushuaia; cross the Drake Passage to the South Shetlands.
• SIM Argentine SIM/eSIM before departure; no signal at sea.
• Money Carry pesos and USD; onboard costs are prepaid.