by Mackensie Cornelius

Created on: October 05, 2008   Last Updated: May 15, 2009

While tourism may have broken the boundaries of our planet, with the first space tourists taking flight in 2001, you don't have to be a billionaire for surreal views of Earth.
Antarctica's landscape has inspired awe in even the most jaded of travelers and offer something for everyone, whether backpackers on a shoestring budget or seniors looking for a luxurious view of this natural paradise. Think you can't travel Antarctica cheap? There is a huge variation in tour prices based on amenities, type of ship, and activities offered. Standby tickets are available in Ushuaia for as much as a 40% markdown, with the best chances of scoring a ticket in December and February or March.

You will likely travel to Antarctica by ship, although some air packages are available for short visits.
Almost all cruises leave from Ushuaia, Argentina, but look out for the occasional expedition leaving from Australia or New Zealand. Tours are typically 9-11 days but can be extended for weeks. The longer the tour, the more land time and the more opportunity to visit islands along the way. The islands are where you will see most of the wildlife on this trip.
Seabirds are the most prevalent as Antarctica's summer produces "plankton blooms" which attract hundreds of species, including one of the world's largest birds, the Wandering Albatross. Of course, you can expect to see Antarctica's most famous creatures, the penguins, as they settle into their breeding season. Leopard and fur seals are also a big attraction. Most spectacular of all, however, are the dozen whale species that live in or migrate through this area, which is an internationally recognized whale sanctuary.

Do your research before you go as hundreds of tour operators offer varying packages, often catering to niche groups such as birdwatchers or photography enthusiasts.
There is no quintessential Antarctica travel guide, and no cookie cutter Antarctica tourist, find the group that offers exactly what you dream of and don't skimp on this trip of a lifetime.
For adventure Antarctica travel finding a small tour will guarantee more time on land- responsible tours never let more than 100 people on land at a time, so large groups would have to take turns (check with the International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators IAATO for more information). From kayaking and diving, to camping and ice climbing, Antarctica has it all. Look out for opportunities to train and practice before you take the trip though- so you can spend less time worrying about your skill and more time enjoying the jaw dropping views.

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