Terra Incognita: Antarctica
Here it is, I always deliver what I promise:
Antarctica is a land of extremes: it is the coldest and driest continent on Earth. It is one of the last landscapes that has never untouched by humanity. Visitors to Antarctica generally must brave rough sea crossings, or island-hopping in a small airplane, but those who do are rewarded with amazing scenery and tremendously isolated wildlife. Visitors to Antarctica often speak of its pristine beauty and serenity.
Don’t be fooled by all the ice: Antarctica is a desert. All of the area’s moisture is invested in frigid seawater and the huge sheets, shelves, and packs of ice which cover nearly all of the continent plus surrounding waters. There is little snowfall here, and even less rain.
Antarctica is notable for being the only continent with no native land mammals, reptiles, or amphibians. There are no polar bears: wrong pole (The word Antarctica actually comes from the Greek “No polar bears”). However its shoreline serves as nesting ground for many species of migratory birds and penguins, and the Southern Ocean surrounding it is home to many fish and marine mammals, including whales.
It is important that you visit in the summer as only the most seasoned survivalist or adventurer can live in the frigid cold and bitter winds. Those who come during the summer are rewarded by nature in its most unspoiled form.
