Curator’s statement
Traveling to Antarctica on the National Geographic Endurance was a life-altering experience. Witnessing the sheer beauty and grandeur of ancient icebergs, walking among Gentoo and Chinstrap penguins, and watching a humpback whale breach from the quiet stillness of our Zodiac are moments forever etched in my memory. The raw, untouched wilderness left me in awe—a reminder of nature’s magnificence.
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Things to do in port
Kayaking among the glaciers in the pristine waters of Antarctica
Zodiac cruising among icebergs: This was one of my favorite parts of the voyage. Each day brought a new adventure. Gliding through icy waters in a small Zodiac boat, while weaving around colossal icebergs was an exhilarating experience.
Hiking on the seventh continent: Few people can say they’ve stood on Antarctica. Whether it’s a landing on the Antarctic Peninsula or one of the South Shetland Islands, stepping onto this pristine land is a once-in-a-lifetime moment.
Seeing penguins in the wild: Watching colonies of Adelie, Chinstrap, and Gentoo penguins waddling, nesting, and diving into icy waters was an incredible sight to see.
Spot whales and seals: The captain and crew are excellent at pointing out these beautiful creatures. Spotting them from the deck or in the Zodiacs was an unforgettable experience.
Participate in a polar plunge: If you’re feeling brave, take the plunge into the frigid Southern Ocean. It’s a chilly, fun, and priceless experience that makes for great photo opportunities.
Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing: One of the benefits of voyaging with National Geographic is their commitment to maximizing every possible experience. When conditions allow, they offer unique opportunities like snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and extended hikes—giving you the chance to engage with the landscape in a more active, immersive way.
Daily recap in the ship’s lounge: One of my favorite parts of each day was gathering in the ship’s lounge for the daily recap. The National Geographic team of experts shared highlights from the day’s adventures and gave insightful previews of what was to come. Their deep knowledge, professionalism, and passion made every recap engaging—a perfect blend of education and storytelling in a relaxed, welcoming setting.
Enjoy a relaxing dip in the hot tub on the ship’s top deck: This was a fun way to end each day.
Places to eat & drink in port
Incredible pastry selection at Ramos Generales El Almacén
While on the Endurance, there are two main restaurants from which to choose:
Restaurant Two Seven Zeroº: A more formal option that offers a panoramic 270-degree view while you dine. The restaurant provides waiter service for lunch and dinner, with a different menu each day.
C. Green’s: Named after Shackleton’s cook, this is a casual dining spot offering breakfast, light lunches, and afternoon tea.
Buenos Aires
Anchoita: contemporary restaurant specializing in Argentine cuisine. One of the best in BA!
Don Julio: bustling steakhouse, voted one of the world’s top 50 restaurants. They do offer a delicious vegetarian option.
Santiago
Borago: fine dining experiences offering Chilean cuisine. Voted one of South America’s best restaurants.
Ushuaia
Ramos Generales El Almacén: A wonderful cafe to have breakfast (delicious pastries and coffee) or lunch before you board your ship.
Need to know
Pack smart & don’t overpack: Leave your fancy clothes and shoes at home. Lindblad-National Geographic provides high-quality parkas and offers boot and equipment rental options, so focus on layering basics: thermal underwear, fleece mid-layers, waterproof pants, and moisture-wicking socks. *Do bring shoes that are easy to slip on or off.
Bring the right camera gear: You don’t need a pro setup to capture stunning shots, but a good zoom lens or binoculars makes a huge difference. Bring extra memory cards and batteries—the cold drains them fast.
Use the packing list they provide: National Geographic sends a comprehensive packing guide—follow it closely. It's curated by people who’ve done these trips dozens of times.
Prepare for motion at sea: Crossing the Drake Passage can be rough. Bring seasickness bracelets, medication, or patches, and start using them before you feel queasy. Most ships also have a doctor on board just in case.
Attend the onboard briefings: The daily recaps and lectures from naturalists, scientists, and photo experts are a highlight of the trip. They help deepen your appreciation of what you’re seeing and experiencing.
Don’t skip the optional activities: Whether it’s kayaking, snowshoeing, or the polar plunge, these extras make the trip even more memorable. You don’t have to be an athlete—just open to adventure.
Disconnect and be present: Internet is limited and slow. Use it as an excuse to unplug, journal, reflect, and really absorb your surroundings. This is one of the last truly wild places on Earth.
Get to know the expedition team: The naturalists, photographers, and guest experts are amazing people with incredible stories and knowledge. Ask questions—they love to share.
Travel Advisor
Kelly Arcella
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Antarctica page.