Antarctica Survival Guide
Book Contents
Download PDF
Resources
World Map

CHAPTER 12:
RESPECT THE RULES

  1. INTRODUCTION
  2. WHEN TO TRAVEL
  3. JOB OPPORTUNITY
  4. TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS
  5. HOW TO GET THERE
  6. WHAT TO PACK
  7. HYGIENE + SELF-CARE

  8. FOOD AND WATER
  9. CONNECT TO THE WORLD
  10. HOMESICKNESS
  11. EMERGENCIES
  12. RESPECT THE RULES


Antarctica is a continent rich of untouched terrain, wildlife, and pristine resources. When you are visiting the continent, it is important to make sure to respect its rules. Visiting Antarctica is a privilege and the development of the Antarctic Treaty serves as a rule book for visitors and expeditioners. The number one rule is to maintain peace and preserve as much of Antarctica’s natural resources as possible.

There are many opportunities to witness wildlife in Antarctica. Wildlife encompasses the famous Emperor penguins, seals, whales, grass, insects, and more. During your visit, it is incredibly important to go by the rule “look, but don’t touch”. Bacteria and germs are easily transmittable between humans and wildlife, who have never come in contact with foreign bodies. As with wildlife, do not touch artifacts or any designated areas that are kept off from non-authorized personnel.

The last thing you want to do during your visit is litter. Picking up after yourself is important because we don’t want to infiltrate Antarctica’s land with our germs and foreign bacteria. Always dispose of your trash and waste in the designated areas, and if you are not near a base camp, hold your waste with you until you reach an area with proper disposal systems.