[2025] 11 Best Things to Do at the South Pole, Antarctica (Top Picks!)

By mi2748514@gmail.com Jul 26, 20250

Ever Dreamed of Visiting the Bottom of the Earth?

What if you could step foot where very few humans ever have? The South Pole, located in the heart of Antarctica, is one of the most extreme and remote destinations on Earth. Yet, it calls out to those brave enough to chase once-in-a-lifetime adventures. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a scientist-at-heart, or someone who just craves untouched beauty, this icy wilderness offers more than just snow and silence.

Let’s dive into the [2025] 11 Best Things to Do at the South Pole, Antarctica (Top Picks!) and uncover why this frozen frontier is one of the coolest places—literally and figuratively—to explore this year.

1. Stand at the Geographic South Pole

You can’t visit Antarctica without standing at the literal bottom of the planet. This iconic spot is marked with a ceremonial red-and-white striped pole surrounded by international flags. Visitors often take photos while pointing in all directions—because every way is technically north from here!

Besides the Instagram-worthy shots, standing at the South Pole is a surreal experience that few can claim. It’s a moment where you’re completely disconnected from the rest of the world and fully immersed in Earth’s rawest environment.

2. Visit the Amundsen–Scott South Pole Station

If you’ve ever wondered how humans survive in such harsh conditions, the Amundsen–Scott Station will give you answers. Operated by the United States since 1956, this high-tech research base is a marvel of engineering and resilience.

While general tourists aren’t allowed inside the main labs, special expeditions often include guided tours of the outer facilities and visitor center. Here, you can learn about the ongoing scientific studies on climate change, astronomy, and glaciology.

3. Experience 24-Hour Sunlight (or Darkness!)

Depending on the time of year you visit, the South Pole either basks in continuous daylight or endures months of pitch-black darkness. During the austral summer (November to January), the sun doesn’t set for weeks, offering perfect conditions for exploration.

This phenomenon is not only visually fascinating but also mentally stimulating. Watching the sun circle the sky without dipping below the horizon feels like stepping into another dimension.

4. Go on a Scenic Flight Over the Polar Plateau

Not everyone reaches the South Pole by land. Many adventurers opt for a scenic flight that offers panoramic views of the endless icy desert. Flights from Union Glacier or Punta Arenas in Chile provide breathtaking aerial tours that showcase massive glaciers, mountain ranges, and crevasse fields.

You’ll gain a whole new appreciation for Antarctica’s vast, untouched beauty from above. It’s the perfect mix of adventure and luxury for those short on time.

5. Camp Overnight on the Ice

Want to feel like a true explorer? Try camping overnight in one of the coldest places on Earth. Several adventure tour operators now offer “polar camping” experiences with heated tents and survival gear.

You’ll sleep under a sky painted with auroras or glowing with the midnight sun. While it may sound extreme, it’s perfectly safe when done with professionals—and it will leave you with bragging rights for life.

6. Capture Rare Wildlife Photographs

Though the South Pole itself is not home to abundant wildlife, the journey to reach it offers incredible opportunities to spot unique Antarctic animals. Emperor penguins, snow petrels, Weddell seals, and skuas can often be seen along the coast and ice shelf regions.

Bring a high-zoom lens and be patient—Antarctica rewards those who wait. Capturing these creatures in their natural habitat is a dream for wildlife photographers and nature lovers alike.

7. Join a Ski the Last Degree Expedition

For those looking for the ultimate challenge, “skiing the last degree” is one of the most rewarding things to do at the South Pole. This adventure involves skiing the final 60 nautical miles (111 km) to reach the geographic pole.

With expert guides and full logistical support, you’ll navigate through challenging terrain, altitude, and freezing temperatures. It’s not for beginners, but it’s an unforgettable accomplishment that tests your spirit and endurance.

8. Watch the Southern Lights (Aurora Australis)

While the Northern Lights often steal the spotlight, the Southern Hemisphere has its own dazzling display—the Aurora Australis. These green and pink ribbons of light dance across the polar sky during the Antarctic winter months (March to September).

Due to the extreme location, witnessing the Southern Lights at the South Pole is rare but magical. The colors are vivid and the silence is surreal, creating a spiritual experience unlike any other.

9. Explore Ice Caves and Sculptures

Some expedition routes allow for brief detours to naturally formed ice caves and pressure ridges. These shimmering formations are carved by shifting glaciers and compressed snow, resulting in otherworldly shapes and tunnels.

You’ll walk through glowing blue corridors, frozen arches, and bubble-filled walls that sparkle under the sun. With safety gear and guided tours, it’s an awe-inspiring side trip you’ll never forget.

10. Learn About Heroic Age Explorers

Every step at the South Pole is steeped in history. You’ll hear legendary tales of Roald Amundsen, the first person to reach the Pole in 1911, and Robert Falcon Scott, who perished with his team in a tragic race against time.

Many expeditions offer storytelling sessions, mini-lectures, and even visits to replica camps. You’ll leave with a deeper respect for those who paved the way through unimaginable conditions over a century ago.

11. Collect Your South Pole Certificate

As a memento of your journey, most expeditions provide an official South Pole certificate. It’s a small but meaningful reward that recognizes your effort in reaching this remote and unforgiving destination.

Display it proudly—it’s not every day you travel to the most southern point on Earth!

Is the South Pole Worth Visiting?

Absolutely, yes! The South Pole is not your typical vacation spot. There are no cities, no hotels, and no Wi-Fi. But what it lacks in comfort, it makes up for in mystery, silence, and once-in-a-lifetime memories.

Whether you’re standing at the bottom of the Earth, camping on ancient ice, or skiing the last degree, every moment here is pure magic. If you crave experiences that go beyond postcards and selfies, the South Pole in 2025 should be at the top of your bucket list.