Why a Sea Voyage to the Falklands (Malvinas) & South Georgia Should Be Your Next Big Adventure

Even if you’ve already traveled to Antarctica with us on an Air-Cruise like travel writer Camila Rikli and photographer Tere Pérez, there are still more thrilling destinations to explore on an Antarctica21 adventure!

In 2022, travel writer Camila Rikli and photographer Tere Pérez traveled with Antarctica21 on a Classic Antarctica Air-Cruise and experienced awe-inspiring moments that left them forever changed. “Every moment in Antarctica was an encounter with nature in its purest form: vast, raw, and humbling,” says Camila. “The silence and stillness of the landscape were unlike anything we had ever experienced, leaving a lasting impression on us and reminding us of the extraordinary beauty of our planet.”

After letting the life-changing experience settle, the travelers were eager to experience even more wonders of this polar region two years later. “Having tasted the thrill of Antarctica, we were drawn to the diversity and depth of the region’s other ecosystems,” says Camila. 

That’s why the duo chose to travel with us on a Sea Voyage to the Falkland Islands and South Georgia in October 2024, which offered them an irresistible blend of rugged terrain, unique wildlife, and fascinating history.

In Camila’s own words, learn why visiting this polar region was a natural next chapter in this duo’s polar adventures!

“The draw of South Georgia’s vast king penguin colonies, elephant seals, and the Falklands’ distinct character was impossible to ignore. This trip was an opportunity to explore the rich history of these remote places. The islands hold stories of early explorers, such as Ernest Shackleton, who braved unimaginable challenges in these harsh conditions. They also showcase the resilience of wildlife thriving in extreme environments and the complex relationship between nature and human activity. It was a chance to offer a deeper understanding of the remarkable narrative of this region.

Recommendation for Travelers Post-Antarctica
I would totally recommend this trip! The Falklands (Malvinas) and South Georgia provide a broader, more textured description of the Southern Ocean. For those who’ve been captivated by Antarctica, this region offers a complementary yet distinct perspective: more wildlife diversity, rich history, and contrasting sceneries.

Antarctica vs. Falklands (Malvinas) & South Georgia
Landscape: Antarctica impresses with its icy and untouched stillness. In contrast, South Georgia and the Falklands (Malvinas) offer a vibrant display of life, with green landscapes and beaches home to seals and penguins.

Wildlife: In Antarctica, you encounter large penguin colonies and spot whales and some seals. South Georgia offers more diversity with albatrosses, elephant seals, and the remarkable King Penguins.

Experience: Antarctica stands out for its otherworldly, icy landscapes and sense of isolation. The Falklands (Malvinas) and South Georgia, however, offer a different kind of experience. These regions combine rich wildlife with a strong historical connection. From penguin colonies to the remnants of early exploration, they provide a more hands-on and diverse opportunity to explore both nature and history.

Our Favorite Falklands (Malvinas) & South Georgia Experience
Witnessing the staggering colony of King Penguins in Saint Andrew´s Bay, South Georgia—thousands of them gathered in an endless stridency of sound and movement, was almost surreal.

Antarctica in October
We embarked on this expedition in October 2024. During this time of year, we observed several unique patterns in wildlife behavior that added a distinctive element to the experience. Elephant seals were birthing and nurturing their pups, creating lively and noisy scenes along the beaches. Albatrosses were also beginning their nesting season, offering a glimpse into their fascinating courtship displays. The timing allowed us to witness these natural events up close, making the journey memorable and enriching.

Our Favorite Wildlife Encounter
One of the most unforgettable wildlife encounters we experienced occurred during sunrise at Gold Harbour. As the first light illuminated the stunning landscape, we witnessed a dramatic scene unfold on the beach. Male elephant seals, enormous and imposing, were engaging in territorial disputes, roaring and lunging at each other to assert dominance. The combination of the golden glow of the morning and the raw power of these animals made the moment remarkable. It was nature at its most vivid—both beautiful and intense.

Why We Loved Our Expedition Team
The guides shared a wealth of knowledge throughout the journey, enhancing every part of the expedition. One particularly fascinating lesson was about the ongoing conservation efforts in South Georgia. They explained the measures taken to eradicate invasive species like rats, which had threatened native bird populations for decades. Hearing about the success of these initiatives and seeing the thriving wildlife firsthand made it clear how impactful these efforts have been.

Perks of Traveling Aboard Magellan Explorer
The Magellan Explorer stands out as a modern and well-designed vessel. The cabins are spacious and comfortable, offering all the amenities needed to relax after a day of exploring. The ship’s eco-conscious engineering adds another layer of appreciation, knowing that efforts are being made to minimize its environmental impact in the region.

The dining experience was another highlight. Every meal was carefully prepared and served in a dining area with panoramic views, making it easy to enjoy the scenery even during downtime. One feature that deserves special mention is the observation deck. It became a favorite spot for many passengers, especially for those unplanned moments like a surprise whale sighting or just soaking in the vastness of the Southern Ocean. The ship’s design ensures you never miss out on the incredible views, no matter where you are on board.

Last but not least, two moments stand out vividly from our trip. During the day, we set out with the expedition team to search for whales. The guides shared their expertise on spotting techniques and identifying behaviors, which made the experience even more engaging. Another night, we were treated to an entirely different spectacle: the southern lights. The auroras illuminated the sky with mesmerizing colors, casting a surreal glow over the surroundings. Standing in the quiet of the night, watching this natural light show, was an unforgettable experience.

This journey reaffirmed the magic of exploration. This trip was mainly about connecting with nature, history, and ourselves. Exploring the Falkland Islands and South Georgia are experiences that will stay with us forever.”