By: Ding
As a travel enthusiast, there are always a few ultimate dreams in one’s heart. From the nearby Angkor Wat in Cambodia and the Taj Mahal in India, to the faraway Mirror of the Sky in Bolivia, and even the mysterious Antarctica — all could be on your dream list. Jetour will hold a 26-day tour package at the end of January 2016 (already confirmed), covering South America and Antarctica. The trip includes a chartered Antarctic flight over the Drake Passage and a five-night voyage aboard the Ocean Nova, spending a full four days in Antarctic waters — definitely an unforgettable experience for participants. DCFever has also invited Henry Lo, founder of the "Travel.Photography" Facebook page, along with Jetour travel specialists, to host a "Journey to Antarctica & South America — Travel & Photography Seminar," giving everyone a head start on photography and travel information about South America and Antarctica.
Sign up for the "Journey to Antarctica & South America — Travel & Photography Seminar"
Photo by auwu
To see the stunning reflection of the "Mirror of the Sky," you need some luck — weather is the key factor. The rainy season, from around December to February of the following year, is the only time you might get to witness this!
There are no direct flights from Hong Kong to South America, and the journey takes anywhere from 20 to 30 hours. Geographically, South America is the closest continent to Antarctica, so most Antarctic tours pass through South America. The most common departure point is Ushuaia in Argentina, but this Jetour tour is more unique, including Colombia, Bolivia, and even Chile in the itinerary. After visiting the Mirror of the Sky, you’ll then head to Antarctica, seeing both dream destinations in one trip.
South American culture is vibrant and diverse. Whether it’s Colombia, known as the coffee kingdom, Bolivia with its Mirror of the Sky, or Chile with its many unique architectural wonders — each offers its own charm. Antarctica has long been a dream destination for many travelers. Beyond its iconic icebergs, crystal-clear waters, and adorable penguins, what else does Antarctica have to offer?
This time, Fever Travel is specially hosting the “Journey to Antarctica & South America — Travel & Photography Seminar.” They’ve invited Henry Lo, founder of the “Travel.Photography” Facebook page, to share insights on polar photography equipment, glacier composition, and hands-on shooting experience and tips. Jetour travel specialists will also provide trip details, so you can be well-prepared when heading to the polar regions for photography.
However, no matter how you choose to go, traveling to Antarctica doesn’t come cheap. Before your trip,it’s worth considering whether it’s right for you. Here are some helpful tips.
1) Itinerary Planning
On the market, Antarctic tours range from just over 10 days to a full month, with departures generally between December and February each year. Typically,there are several types of Antarctic itineraries to choose from:
- Ship-based Landings
- Scenic Flights for Aerial Views
- Flight-based Landings
Ship-based landings are the most common option. Departing from Ushuaia, Argentina, these trips take about 9–11 days. The advantage is that they are relatively more affordable, but be prepared for rough seas.According to experienced guides, nine out of ten passengers may end up feeling seasick. However, as an “entry-level” Antarctic trip,this remains the most common choice. Some may opt to depart from Australia or New Zealand,where several sightseeing flights to Antarctica are available each year.But be aware that the cheapest economy seats might only have middle seats, making it harder to enjoy the views. The third option is more expensive:flying directly to landing sites, avoiding the bumpy ship ride, though you may still take a ship after landing.This is arguably the most premium way to visit Antarctica.
Most tour packages focus on Argentina and Antarctica, but some special ones also include Bolivia.
Besides the Mirror of the Sky, Bolivia’s Lake Titicaca is also well worth a visit. Located at an altitude of 3,000 feet, the lake spans over 8,000 square kilometers, making it the largest freshwater lake in South America. Taking a traditional totora reed boat to visit the indigenous Uru people is a unique experience.
Most standard itineraries focus primarily on Argentina and Antarctica.Because Argentina is essential for ship-based landings. Some more distinctive tours also include Colombia, Bolivia, and even Chile,letting you explore the coffee kingdom while seeing the Mirror of the Sky, ticking off multiple dream destinations. More importantly, they handle Bolivia visa arrangements, saving you the hassle of entry formalities.
2) Weather and Physical Condition
Antarctic temperatures are mild in spring and summer from November to February each year, with an average daily temperature of around 0°C to -5°C, which is relatively comfortable and not physically demanding. Before departure, you need to fill out a medical questionnaire,to ensure safety. However, the highest point in Antarctica exceeds 4,800 meters, with an average elevation of about 1,800 meters. Additionally, the ozone hole is located above Antarctica, and daylight hours are long, so remember to bring sunscreen.
3) "Fulfilling a Dream"
If taking a bus tour to Europe in the 1980s was once a dream come true,then traveling to Antarctica nowadays can also be considered a dream fulfilled.Some things, if not done now, will never be done in a lifetime. If you also have a dream of visiting Antarctica,and time and resources permit, why not give it a try? As the saying goes, live in the moment—being able to experience it with "feeling"is also a kind of blessing.
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Photo by Harvey Chung
Recommended Itinerary
Jetour — 26-Day Antarctic Exploration Tour
Reason for Recommendation
— Take an Antarctic charter flight for shore excursions, saving time while also enjoying aerial views of Antarctica
— 5 nights of shore time, staying in Antarctica for a full 4 days, allowing ample time
— The itinerary includes Colombia, Bolivia, and Chile, offering unique experiences
— Handle Bolivia visa applications, eliminating entry hassles
Sign up for the "Explore Antarctica & South American Photo Lecture"
More about the Itinerary
Jetour’s 26-Day Antarctic Exploration Tour first flies to Colombia, then visits Bolivia to adjust to the time difference and acclimate to the environment, followed by a cruise to Antarctica, and finally returns via Chile.
Departure Date: January 29, 2016
Inquiry Phone: 3180 9966
Inquiry Website: http://www.jetour.com.hk/
Photo by auwu 
Most tour packages focus on Argentina and Antarctica, but some special ones also include Bolivia.
Besides the Mirror of the Sky, Bolivia’s Lake Titicaca is also well worth a visit. Located at an altitude of 3,000 feet, the lake spans over 8,000 square kilometers, making it the largest freshwater lake in South America. Taking a traditional totora reed boat to visit the indigenous Uru people is a unique experience.
