If you are looking for a unique place to travel, you might want to consider Antarctica. Despite being one of the coldest places on earth, its resilient wildlife makes it a great place to observe nature. However, Antarctica is considered one of the oldest landscapes in the world and is used primarily as a center for scientific research. As such, there are very strict rules when visiting the South Pole, which are listed below.
Do not walk on lichen
When people picture Antarctica, it’s mostly endless snow with a few rocks showing. But plants do grow in Antarctica. There are several types of grass, moss, and lichen. As you can imagine, it takes a long time for them to grow, as even in the summer the air temperature can be below -20 degrees Celsius. Avoid stepping on them and stick to the snow instead. Lichens aren’t abundant, but they are vital to the Antarctic ecosystem.
Don't get a parasite
There are very strict hygiene rules in Antarctica. Everything you take with you must be thoroughly washed, disinfected and checked every day. Beware of worm infestation, which you are exposed to everywhere.
Observe animals from the side
Most of the rules for watching animals are pretty simple: keep your distance, stay calm, and don’t feed the animals. Watch your step, as lichens can contain bird eggs. There is one unusual rule about penguins. While guides insist that it is a very rare occurrence, penguins sometimes jump on tourist boats. Despite their cute and cuddly appearance, most penguins can cause significant damage to a person in self-defense.
Help the whale
As you’ve probably figured out, most wildlife regulations emphasize that animals should be left alone to have as little human contact as possible. However, there is one instance where this rule can be relaxed: when a marine animal, such as a whale, gets caught in fishing gear. While you may not be able to help directly (only experienced crew members on your expedition should attempt to free any trapped animal), you are required to take a photo for your tour operator, record your coordinates, and capture the appearance of the entangled victim. The photos will help identify the animal, and the records you make may help reduce these types of incidents in the future.
Don't take a gun with you
Do not, under any circumstances, bring a gun or any explosive device to Antarctica. Antarctica is considered a peace zone.
There are no souvenirs here.
Everyone loves to have a souvenir from their travels. However, taking anything from Antarctica is prohibited. This includes rocks, feathers, bones, eggs, and any kind of biological material, including soil. Taking anything else is research. If you are lucky enough to find something of scientific interest, such as a fossil, note its location, take a photo, and then leave it there.
Do not disturb historical landmarks
Antarctica has "historical" sites in the form of old bases and now abandoned huts that were once used by explorers and scientists. Like any monument, you shouldn't get too close to them. In an emergency, they can be used.
Assemble your ash pan
There are many rules about keeping Antarctica clean. The obvious ones are things like no littering or graffiti. Water pollution is also considered a big problem. However, if you are a smoker, there is an additional rule: you need to collect all the ashes, especially on sea trips.
