1. The cold

It might seem strange that this one tops our list, but there’s something utterly unique about this particular brand of cold. As anyone who’s visited Antarctica will tell you, there's something about being in a truly cold environment that energises your brain. As long as you're dressed for the weather, you won't be uncomfortable, and you'll be amazed at how quickly you adjust. You may even remember the Antarctic chill as one of the best parts of your trip.

If you’re wondering what to wear during your time on Antarctica, don’t worry – we’ve thought of everything.

2. Sense of Adventure

Adventure is at the very heart of an Antarctic cruise. Unlike holidays spent sunbathing and al fresco dining, here you’ll be kayaking, hiking and exploring one of the planet’s most untouched environments. Of course, there’s always time for cocktails and relaxation once you get back to the ship.

3. Part of History

Antarctica’s reputation for extreme weather keeps away all but the most adventurous travellers and, as a result, very few people have ever visited the continent at all. With most holiday destinations, you’ll experience something that millions have seen before. Here in Antarctica, you're part of its story.

4. A world away

The vast emptiness of the southernmost continent cannot be exaggerated. When you travel to Antarctica, it's just you, your shipmates and the scientists and long-term travellers you meet in settlements along the way. Not only has Antarctica never had an indigenous population, there's no evidence to suggest that anyone ever set foot there until the early 1820s.

5. Another planet

Gabrielle Walker, an environmental scientist who has visited Antarctica to study the effects of climate change, describes the continent as being almost alien.

"The first time I went there," she said in a video about her travels, "it's like walking on another planet. It's just ice and rock - no trees, no plants, no anything else."

If you’ve ever been fascinated by the thought of exploring an uninhabited world. Antarctica is your alien landscape right at home.

6. The wildlife

That remarkably uninhabited quality means that the wildlife in Antarctica – particularly the penguins – have no fear of humans. They've never experienced predators on land, so they're confident and curious, making travelling to Antarctica the best opportunity to get up close with everyone's favourite flightless bird.

In addition to penguins, there are whales and seals to observe in their natural habitats. Spend time observing their vast feeding and breeding grounds for a real glimpse into their lives in the wild – something no zoo or aquarium can ever truly reveal.

7. Scientific wonders

From a scientific perspective, Antarctica is one of the most exciting places in the world. There are scientific bases to visit, such as on Paradise Bay and, while it’s a prime destination for those studying climate change, it's also a favourite spot for astronomers. The clear air, stable weather and absence of light pollution make the South Pole one of the best places in the world to stargaze, giving scientists a clearer picture of the universe around us. It also gives travellers the opportunity to view a night sky unlike any other.

8. Incomparable Icebergs

You've never seen icebergs like those in Antarctica. As your ship draws closer to the frozen continent, the concentration of these floating structures increases. They come in all shapes and sizes and no two are alike – as you’ll see when they’re towering above you on all sides as you sail by.

9. A photographer's dream

Landscapes like these inspire even the most casual photographer. For anyone with an eye for beauty, Antarctica presents the opportunity of a lifetime. From its curious creatures to the captivating scenery, this continent will give you the chance to take incredible pictures unlike any you've ever shot before. For those with ambitions to hone their craft, it’s an amazing opportunity to grow as an artist and develop your eye for the extraordinary.

Now that you have 9 reasons to travel to Antarctica, it’s time to find a few more of your own. There are many different Antarctica cruises to choose from, including our Highlights of Antarctica expedition on the MS Roald Amundsen or the MS Fridtjof Nansen – the perfect opportunity to experience everything this enigmatic continent has to offer.