Polar Expeditions

One of the Top 10 Bucket List Adventures by 10Adventures

Imagine standing at the edge of the Earth, surrounded by towering glaciers, drifting icebergs, and an otherworldly silence broken only by the distant call of a seabird or the crackle of shifting sea ice. Polar expeditions are more than just trips, they are modern-day journeys of exploration. Whether you venture north to the raw Arctic or south to the pristine Antarctic, you’ll find yourself in one of the last untouched wildernesses on the planet.

A polar expedition is not for the faint of heart. It’s for the dreamers, the adventurers, the lifelong learners. These journeys take you to places few people will ever see, offering encounters with rare wildlife, starkly beautiful landscapes, and a powerful sense of isolation and wonder. It’s a place where you’ll feel small, yet deeply connected to the vastness of the world around you.

Why People Choose Polar Expeditions as a Bucket List Trip

Polar expeditions have captured the imagination of explorers for centuries. Today, they continue to draw adventurers looking for an experience unlike any other. Here’s why people add a polar expedition to their bucket list:

The polar regions are some of the most untouched places on Earth. Massive glaciers, snow-covered peaks, and expansive ice fields create an environment that feels more like another planet than our own. It’s the ultimate escape from civilization.

From polar bears and walrus in the Arctic to penguins and whales in the Antarctic, the polar regions offer incredible opportunities to see wildlife that thrive in extreme conditions. These are some of the rarest and most dramatic wildlife encounters on Earth.

Many travelers are drawn to these regions by the legacies of iconic explorers like Ernest Shackleton, Roald Amundsen, and Robert Falcon Scott. Following in their footsteps offers a chance to relive the golden age of polar exploration and reflect on the human spirit of discovery.

While modern expeditions are safe and well-equipped, they still offer a sense of adventure and resilience. Simply being in these remote areas - crossing icy waters or hiking across frozen terrain - is a rewarding challenge.

Where to Go on a Polar Expedition

Polar expeditions span both hemispheres, offering very different but equally awe-inspiring experiences. Whether you’re heading to the Arctic Circle in the far north or crossing the Southern Ocean to Antarctica, there are incredible adventures awaiting you.

The Arctic

The Arctic offers a dynamic landscape of frozen seas, icy fjords, and rugged tundra. Unlike the Antarctic, the Arctic is inhabited by Indigenous communities, adding a rich cultural layer to your adventure. Wildlife includes polar bears, narwhals, walrus, and Arctic foxes, and expeditions often take place via ice-hardened ships or remote hiking routes.

Antarctica

The southernmost continent is the most remote and pristine place on the planet. With no permanent human population and landscapes dominated by snow, ice, and massive icebergs, Antarctica offers an unmatched sense of solitude. Expect to see emperor penguins, orcas, seals, and towering glaciers rising from the sea. Most trips depart from Argentina and are ship-based, offering opportunities for landings and zodiac excursions.

Canada

Canada’s Arctic is vast and rugged, with a deep sense of isolation that defines the experience. Travelers can explore the Northwest Passage, a legendary sea route navigated by early explorers. In Nunavut and the high Arctic islands, expect to see Inuit communities, migrating caribou, and elusive polar bears. Expeditions may include ship-based voyages, cultural visits, and wildlife watching in some of the most remote regions of the country.

Iceland

While best known for its volcanoes and geothermal wonders, Iceland’s northern coast opens the door to Arctic adventure. It’s a launching point for journeys into the high Arctic and offers shorter expeditions to the fjords and coastal regions of Greenland. In summer, Iceland’s endless daylight and wildlife activity make it a perfect base for adventurous travelers.

Norway

Norway is one of the most accessible ways to experience the Arctic. The Svalbard archipelago, located halfway between mainland Norway and the North Pole, is a crown jewel of Arctic exploration. Known for its towering glaciers, reindeer herds, and reliable polar bear sightings, Svalbard combines wild landscapes with the comforts of Nordic hospitality.

Greenland

Greenland offers a rare blend of Arctic beauty and Indigenous culture. Towering icebergs, colorful settlements, and immense glaciers create a dramatic backdrop. Travelers often explore the coastline by ship, with opportunities to hike, kayak, and visit remote Inuit villages. It’s one of the best places to witness the impact of climate change and learn from those who live in these fragile environments.

Argentina

Argentina is the primary gateway to Antarctica. From Ushuaia, the world’s southernmost city, adventurers set sail across the Drake Passage toward the Antarctic Peninsula. This route offers dramatic seascapes, sightings of penguin colonies, and an overwhelming sense of entering another world. Argentina also offers opportunities to extend your journey with hiking or cultural explorations in Patagonia.

When to Go on a Polar Expedition

Timing is everything when it comes to polar travel. The best times to visit vary by hemisphere and destination:

Arctic (Canada, Iceland, Norway, Greenland)

• May to September is the main season for Arctic expeditions.
• June and July offer 24-hour daylight and vibrant wildlife activity, including migrating whales and nesting seabirds.
• August and September tend to have calmer seas and better access to ice-free areas, making it ideal for navigation.

Antarctica (via Argentina)

• November to March is the Antarctic summer and the only window for most expeditions.
• November offers pristine snowy landscapes and dramatic light.
• December and January are peak months for wildlife. Expect baby penguins and active whales.
• February and March are best for whale watching and deeper ship access due to retreating sea ice.

Frequently Asked Questions about Polar Expeditions

Yes. Tours are run by highly trained professionals using specialized equipment and protocols to ensure safety, even in extreme environments.

Not necessarily. There are different types of expeditions; some are ship-based with minimal activity, while others include hiking or kayaking. We help you choose the right trip for your ability.

Thermal layers, waterproof outerwear, sturdy boots, and accessories like gloves and hats are essential. Many tours provide or rent specialized gear.

Yes! In the Arctic, depending on the timing, you may witness the magical aurora or experience continuous daylight.

Polar bears live in the Arctic, and penguins are found in the Antarctic. Both offer memorable wildlife viewing opportunities.

Some tours are suitable for families, but age limits vary. Contact us to find a family-friendly expedition.

Modern expedition ships are comfortable and well-equipped, with daily briefings, expert talks, and delicious meals. Some even have hot tubs and saunas.

Trips can range from 7 to 20+ days depending on the region and itinerary.

Expect limited or no connectivity. A polar expedition is a chance to truly disconnect and be present.

These trips fill up quickly. We recommend booking 6 to 12 months in advance for the best selection of routes and cabins.

Planning a Polar Expedition Tour

Planning a polar expedition can feel overwhelming - these aren’t your average vacations after all! From securing the right gear to arranging flights, permits, and transfers, there’s a lot to think about. That’s where 10Adventures comes in.

We take the stress out of planning, so you can focus on the adventure ahead. Our team will help you choose the right destination, find the perfect tour, and handle every detail of your journey. Whether you dream of watching penguins march across Antarctic ice or spotting a polar bear from your ship’s deck, we’re here to make it happen.

Contact a travel advisor and let us help you experience the magic of Earth’s polar frontiers - one unforgettable moment at a time.