Sites of interest

The South Shetland Islands are an archipelago located in the South Antarctic Ocean, and north of the great Antarctic Peninsula, as part of the highest, driest and coldest continent on the planet. The beauty of this remote destination is created by its imposing glaciers, magnificent channels and the impressive fauna that inhabits the area. Livingston Island is a surprising spot where you will find a great variety of species – your attention will be captivated by Chinstrap, Gentoo and the magnificent Macaroni penguins, with their distinctive orange/yellow crests. Elephant seals, Antarctic Giant Petrels and Snowy Sheathbill are also to be seen.

An impressive volcano, still considered active and famous for its incomplete crater which is at sea level. Sailing and walking in this zone can result in a fabulous experience. One of the greatest attractions of this island is the combination of rock towers that come out of the sea. This amazing geological formation is known as “Neptune’s Bellows”. In this outstanding place, whose shape is like a horseshoe, the warm coastal waters can get close to 65°C, in contrast with the freezing surrounding waters in this corner of the world. Here you will also visit Whalers Bay, where we will see the remains of a former whaling station.

Known for being one of the most beautiful spots in the area and this is why it is also known as the “Kodak Gap”, due to the impression it produces among the tourists, making them take innumerable photographs of nature at its best. If the weather allows and the channel is not blocked by the ice that is typical of this inhospitable corner of the world, you will see playful seals that rest on wandering icebergs, as well as Minke whales that are frequently found in these cold waters.

Upon arrival, you will find yourself on a small island dominated by a great amount of lichen growth and deep moss on the rocks, the only botanical species that you can find on the surface of Antarctica. As part of the scenery you will see various birds, such as Wilson Petrel, South and Brown Skuas. Here you will be delighted with one of the largest colonies of Gentoo penguins.

A wide bay located on the southwestern point of Wiencke Island. This site was used by whalers almost one century ago. There is an old British scientific base which is now a museum. Nowadays it is not unusual to see Minke and Humpback whales cruising along the coast.

From Paradise Bay you will be able to enjoy one of the most magnificent views that the Antarctic territory has to offer. Splendid scenes of glaciers and mountains are enhanced by fascinating fauna, such as Gentoo Penguins and Minke Whales.

The volcanic origin of this island gives it a very particular surface formation. On it you will find Chinstrap and Gentoo penguins, Antarctic Blue Eyed Shags and Skuas. In this area you may find the distinguished looking Weddell Seal and some Elephant Seals that occasionally visit the island.