Antarctica’s Hidden Gems

Antarctica and its surrounding islands are home to some of the planet’s most breathtaking wonders. This includes tailor-maid tours to Falkland Islands and South Georgia, as well as Snow Hill Island. Indeed, these remote destinations offer unparalleled opportunities to witness dramatic landscapes and abundant wildlife. Visit these untouched wildernesses that few places on Earth can rival with Ker & Downey.

The Falkland Islands

Falkland Islands trips offer an extraordinary blend of wildlife, history, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, or simply seeking solitude, this destination provides a one-of-a-kind experience.

• “The Galapagos of the South Atlantic”: The Falklands are home to abundant wildlife, including five species of penguins, black-browed albatrosses, sea lions, elephant seals, and dolphins. The lack of terrestrial predators allows for close encounters with animals in their natural habitats. The islands are often referred to as the "Galapagos of the South Atlantic" due to their biodiversity and accessibility for eco-tourists.
• Rugged Landscapes: The windswept terrain features dramatic cliffs, white sandy beaches, rocky shores, and unique stone runs flowing down hillsides. Each island offers distinct scenery—from untouched beaches on Sea Lion Island to the bird haven of Carcass Island.
• Rich History: The Falklands’ history spans centuries of maritime adventures, shipwrecks, farming traditions, and the 1982 conflict between Argentina and the UK. Stanley's attractions include the Christ Church Cathedral with its iconic Whalebone Arch and the Falkland Islands Museum, which brings the island's past to life.
• Community-Centric: With a population of just over 3,000 people, the Falklands exude a sense of community and tranquility rarely found elsewhere.

How to Reach the Falkland Islands

• By Air: Most flights land at Mount Pleasant Airport on East Falkland. Flights are available from Santiago, Chile or from RAF Brize Norton in England.
• By Sea: Join an expedition cruise ship that departs from Ushuaia in Argentina, then crosses the Drake Passage to reach Antarctica.
• Once You’re There: Island hop! Small planes operated by FIGAS (Falkland Islands Government Air Service) provide transport between inhabited islands.
• Seasonal Timing: November-February is considered the best for visiting due to warmer temperatures and longer days, making them ideal for outdoor activities. These are also the best months for wildlife viewing and to see some chicks!

South Georgia Island

Nestled in the remote Southern Ocean, South Georgia Island is a sub-Antarctic destination that feels like stepping into a real-life nature documentary. If you're an adventure seeker, wildlife enthusiast, or history aficionado, tours to Falkland Islands and South Georgia should be at the top of your travel list.

• Penguins Galore, and More: South Georgia Island boasts some of the largest king penguin colonies in the world, with over 150,000 breeding pairs at St. Andrew’s Bay alone. It’s also home to elephant seals, fur seals, albatrosses, and endemic species like the South Georgia pintail (a carnivorous duck) and the South Georgia pipit (the only songbird in Antarctica). The sheer density of animals makes every visit unforgettable.
• Stunning Setting: The island's terrain is dominated by towering snow-capped mountains, glaciers, fjords, and craggy coastlines. The central mountain ranges, such as the Allardyce Range, rise dramatically from the sea, creating breathtaking vistas at every turn. Iconic spots like Salisbury Plain and St. Andrew’s Bay provide a backdrop of glaciers against sprawling penguin colonies.
• Exploration History: South Georgia has a fascinating human history tied to exploration and whaling. Grytviken, once a bustling whaling station, now serves as a historical site with a museum and the grave of Sir Ernest Shackleton, the Antarctic explorer who famously sought refuge on this island during his ill-fated Endurance expedition.
• Isolation and Serenity: With no permanent population beyond a small group of researchers and government staff, South Georgia offers unparalleled tranquility. Its remoteness ensures that only a few thousand visitors experience its wonders each year.

How to Reach South Georgia Island:

• By Sea: The only way to access South Georgia is by ship. Most visitors arrive as part of an expedition cruise that typically depart from Ushuaia, Argentina.
• Seasonal Timing: October through March offers milder weather and optimal wildlife activity including penguin chicks and seal pups.

Snow Hill Island

Snow Hill Island, a remote and snow-blanketed island in the Weddell Sea, is one of Antarctica’s most extraordinary destinations. Indeed, its isolation, dramatic landscapes, and unparalleled wildlife encounters make it a bucket-list location for intrepid travelers.

• Emperor Penguins: The island hosts one of the few accessible emperor penguin colonies in Antarctica, with up to 10,000 breeding pairs. Visitors can observe these majestic birds in their natural habitat, a rare opportunity given the colony’s remote location.
• Historic Significance: The island is home to Nordenskiöld House, the oldest surviving hut in Antarctica, built during the 1902 Swedish Antarctic Expedition. As such, this historic site offers a glimpse into early polar exploration.
• Untouched Wilderness: Unlike more frequented Antarctic destinations, Snow Hill Island remains pristine. Indeed, it boasts towering icebergs, icy fjords, and minimal human impact.

How to Reach Snow Hill Island

• Expedition Cruises: Most travelers reach the island via specialized polar expedition ships departing from Ushuaia, Argentina. These cruises first traverse the Drake Passage before entering the Weddell Sea.
• Helicopter Access: Due to thick sea ice, the emperor penguin colony is often accessible only by helicopter. Therefore, many exclusive ships use onboard helicopters to ferry small groups to the rookery.
• Seasonal Timing: The best time to visit Snow Hill Island is November–December, when penguin chicks are present. However, weather and ice conditions dictate accessibility.

Book Tours to Falkland Islands and South Georgia

For those seeking an unforgettable Antarctic adventure, these islands offer a rare blend of wildlife, history, and untouched beauty—a true journey of a lifetime.

So, don't wait. Contact Ker & Downey today to discuss tours to Falkland Islands and South Georgia and beyond. We will create a custom journey just for you. For even more travel inspiration, follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and X.

All photos courtesy of Quark Expeditions