tourism

2023 Monitoring Report on the German Strategy for Adaptation to Climate Change

The Antarctic Peninsula and parts of West Antarctica have a favourable climate by Antarctic standards. This is why many human research and tourist activities take place there. Together with measurable climate change these are the reasons why this region is also especially threatened by the introduction and spread of non-native species.

King George Island is the largest of the South Shetland Islands, and because of its accessibility from South America, now hosts 14 research stations and field huts of about one dozen nations. Construction and operation of these stations requires a great deal of logistical activities which impact the environment. Environmental monitoring will help to detect and solve problems.

The reasons for travelling to the Antarctic are as varied as the possibilities to do so. We have compiled information on the following pages to help you plan your journey to the Antarctic in accordance with the high environmental standards in effect and to apply for your permit with us.

Antarctica was only first discovered in the early 19th century – no human had ever set foot on the southernmost continent before that. Even today, there are no permanent settlements aside from scientific stations. The people who travel to the Antarctic today are researchers, tourists or journalists.