Antarctica
About Antarctica
| Currency | None (None) |
| Language | There is no official language. Different languages may be spoken at different research stations. Major languages include Russian, English, German, Norwegian, Swedish and Spanish. |
| Capital | None |
Antarctica, located almost entirely below the Antarctic Circle, is Earth’s most southern continent. Covering approximately 14,000,000 km2, Antarctica it is the fifth-largest continent on the globe. Approximately 98% of the territory is covered in ice.
Seven countries have made claims to the territory, but not all these claims are recognized by other countries and some of these claims overlap. In an attempt to establish a legal framework for the continent and its use, the Antarctic Treaty was signed in 1959 by 12 nations. The treaty does not deny claims to the land, nor does it recognize these existing claims. Instead it states that Antarctica shall be used for peaceful purposes, for scientific research and for international cooperation. It also states that scientific information gained on the continent must be exchanged freely between nations, and between nations and international agencies such as the UN. Today, 53 nations have signed the treaty and 30 countries operate research stations on the continent. It is this treaty that forms the basis of the Antarctic Treaty System which governs Antarctica.
There is no indigenous population of Antarctica, however researchers from around the world maintain permanent research stations on the continent. Approximately 1,000 people live and work on the continent in the winter, while approximately 5,000 people live and work on the continent in the summer.
Antarctica is the coldest, driest and windiest continent on Earth. It also has the highest average elevation; the average elevation is between 2000m-4000m above sea level.
Despite the inhospitable weather conditions, tourist companies based abroad have established a small tourism industry for Antarctica. In 2014-2015, approximately 36,700 tourists visited the continent, most on commercial ships or private yachts. Commercial fishing also contributes to Antarctica’s small economy. There is no Antarctic currency. U.S. dollars, Pound Sterling and Euro are accepted in some areas.
There are no diseases to report, nor vaccinations required for Antarctica. Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date.
Recommended Vaccinations For Antarctica
For Some Travellers
Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) Vaccine
A dose of Measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is recommended for all travellers over 6 months of age.
Rabies Vaccine
Vaccination against rabies is generally recommended for travellers involved in outdoor activities.
Recommended Medications For Antarctica
There are no recommendations for Antarctica at this time.
Diseases To Be Aware of for Antarctica
For Some Travellers
Measles
There is no known risk of Measles in this country. However, there may be a risk of acquiring the disease when sharing close living quarters with people from many different places on a cruise ship or other modes of transportation.
Rabies
Rabies has not been reported in this country. Travellers are considered to be at a low risk. However, bats may carry the disease. Travellers involved in outdoor activities (e.g., campers, hikers, bikers, adventure travellers, and cavers) may have direct contact with rabid bats, and other infected mammals. Those with occupational risks (such as veterinarians, wildlife professionals, researchers) and long-term travellers and expatriates could be at risk.
Safety & Security in Antarctica
Personal Safety
It is strongly advised to only travel to Antarctica as part of a scientific research expedition or with a reliable tour group. Depending on the expedition, and the traveller’s citizenship, a permit may be required.
Antarctica is an extreme environment. Always prepare for poor weather and rough seas when travelling to Antarctica. Travel may be delayed or cancelled because of severe weather. Always wear proper clothing and footwear, with good foot grip for the challenging outdoor conditions. Always keep your valuables in a sealable, dry bag when going ashore and only remove them when you are well on land. Come prepared with the food, equipment and clothing you will need to be self-sufficient during your visit. Travellers should note that there are strict guidelines for visiting Antarctica. Do not interfere with Antarctic wildlife or vegetation. Keep at a safe distance from wildlife and do not attempt to approach or feed them. Walk only on designated tracks to reduce vegetation damage. Do not interfere with scientific research. Leave no trace of your visit.
Ensure travel insurance is purchased before departing as there are no emergency medical facilities on the continent. In the case of a medical emergency, evacuation will likely be required. There are no diseases to report, nor vaccinations required for Antarctica. Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date.
Areas To Avoid
The territory is inaccessible during winters (March-October). During the Austral summer (November-February) prevailing westerly winds and lack of sheltered anchorage, may make travel difficult
