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<title>Hospitality and Travel Insights &amp; : Environment</title>
<link>https://www.flyingcarpetnews.com/rss/category/environment</link>
<description>Hospitality and Travel Insights &amp; : Environment</description>
<dc:language>en</dc:language>
<dc:rights>Copyright © 2023&amp;2026 Flying Carpet News &amp; Hospitality &amp;amp; Travel Insights. All Rights Reserved. Call Free: 0800 53 003 53.</dc:rights>

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<title>Virgin Atlantic&amp;apos;s Pioneering Flight: A Leap Towards Sustainable Aviation</title>
<link>https://www.flyingcarpetnews.com/virgin-atlantics-pioneering-flight-a-leap-towards-sustainable-aviation</link>
<guid>https://www.flyingcarpetnews.com/virgin-atlantics-pioneering-flight-a-leap-towards-sustainable-aviation</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Virgin Atlantic has marked a historic milestone with its successful 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) flight landing in New York City. This flight stands as a testament to SAF&#039;s capability as a safe alternative to traditional jet fuel, showcasing compatibility with modern engines, airframes, and fuel infrastructure. ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Wed, 29 Nov 2023 13:02:14 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>virgin, virgin atlantic, virgin 100, flight, atlantic, transatlantic, sustainable, sustainability, environment, green fuel, aviation, future, technology, tech, newtech, traveltech, aviatech, new technology, new technologies, futuretech, air travel, travel, tourism, richard branson, technological advancement, breakthrough</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Shai Weiss, CEO of Virgin Atlantic, emphasises that Flight100 is a breakthrough, demonstrating that SAF can serve as a safe, drop-in replacement for fossil-derived jet fuel. This achievement underscores SAF's pivotal role in decarbonising long-haul aviation. However, Weiss highlights a crucial challenge — the insufficient availability of SAF. To scale up production, substantial investment, regulatory certainty, and government-backed price support mechanisms are imperative. Flight100 boldly asserts, "If you make it, we'll fly it."</p>
<p>SAF, derived from waste products, emerges as a key player in decarbonising long-haul aviation and aligning with the New Zero 2050 initiative. Offering CO2 lifecycle emissions savings of up to 70%, SAF mirrors the performance of traditional jet fuel, emphasising its potential to reshape the aviation industry's environmental impact.</p>
<p>Richard Branson, the visionary founder of Virgin Atlantic, reflects on the spirit of innovation and the continuous pursuit of improvement since the airline's inception in 1984. Branson's presence on Flight100, alongside his daughter Holly, symbolises a commitment to pushing boundaries — from carbon fiber aircraft to sustainable fuels.</p>
<p>Despite SAF representing less than 0.1% of global jet fuel, Flight100 illuminates the challenge of scaling up production. Current fuel standards permitting only a 50% SAF blend in commercial jet engines highlight the need for swift policy and investment actions. The call is for industry and government collaboration to foster a thriving UK SAF industry.</p>
<p>Flight100 goes beyond showcasing SAF capabilities. Consortium partners, including ICF, Rocky Mountain Institute, Imperial College London, and the University of Sheffield, support research on non-carbon emissions. The study aims to enhance understanding of SAF's effects on contrails and particulates, contributing valuable data to the industry and aiding contrail forecasts in flight planning.</p>
<p>The SAF used in Flight100 is a distinctive dual blend — 88% Hydroprocessed Esters and Fatty Acids (HEFA) supplied by AirBP and 12% Synthetic Aromatic Kerosene (SAK) supplied by Virent, a subsidiary of Marathon Petroleum Corporation. HEFA is derived from waste fats, while SAK is sourced from waste plant sugars. This blend is essential for achieving the required aromatics for engine function in 100% SAF.</p>
<p>Virgin Atlantic's commitment to sustainable aviation extends beyond Flight100. Operating one of the youngest and most fuel-efficient fleets globally, the airline has a 15-year track record of leading SAF development at scale. However, collective efforts from the industry and government are necessary to establish a robust UK SAF industry and meet the ambitious target of 10% SAF in aviation by 2030. This pursuit promises significant social and economic benefits, with an estimated contribution of £1.8 billion in Gross Value Added to the UK and the creation of over 10,000 jobs.</p>
<p>Virgin Atlantic's Flight100 represents a monumental step forward in sustainable aviation, underscoring the potential of SAF to revolutionise the industry and contribute to a greener, more environmentally conscious future.</p>]]> </content:encoded>
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<title>Overtourism &amp;apos;a bigger sustainability challenge than decarbonising aviation&amp;apos;</title>
<link>https://www.flyingcarpetnews.com/overtourism-a-bigger-sustainability-challenge-than-decarbonising-aviation</link>
<guid>https://www.flyingcarpetnews.com/overtourism-a-bigger-sustainability-challenge-than-decarbonising-aviation</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Former Abta chair Martin Brackenbury tells WTM London overtourism has become the industry’s biggest barrier to becoming truly sustainable ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Fri, 10 Nov 2023 12:32:46 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Overtourism, bigger, sustainability, challenge, than, decarbonising, aviation</media:keywords>
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<p dir="ltr">Decarbonising aviation has given way to overtourism as the biggest barrier to travel and tourism becoming a truly sustainable industry, former Abta chair Martin Brackenbury has said.</p>
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<p dir="ltr">Speaking at WTM London on Wednesday (8 November), Brackenbury said he was nonetheless confident the aviation sector would achieve its net-zero goals sooner than currently expected owing to the huge technological advances the industry has made in recent years.</p>
<p dir="ltr">“I think we will get there and, in many ways, more quickly than we had anticipated,” he said, speaking as part of WTM London’s Sustainability Summit. “However, the same cannot be said for overtourism as, at the global level, there’s no blueprint for tackling the issue.” </p>
<p dir="ltr">Brackenbury said the industry was not at a stage where partners from all sides can engage in dialogue to make sure destinations are not overwhelmed by hordes of tourists. “I still see that as a very large barrier,” he added. “We haven’t found a way of doing it – both politically and practically – that actually works all over the world.”</p>
<p dir="ltr">Meanwhile, South African Tourism acting chief executive Nombulelo Guliwe was another to address the panel discussion, titled “Breaking Barriers: Travellers demand better, more sustainable holidays, how can we deliver?”. Guliwe said customers currently lacked the knowledge to define what constitutes sustainable tourism.</p>
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<p dir="ltr"><span>“Our data shows consumers haven’t clearly defined what responsible tourism or sustainable tourism is for them,” she said. “Part of doing our work is making sure we feed the information and educate [travellers] about what responsible tourism is.”</span></p>
<p dir="ltr">Visit Flanders chief strategist Vincent Nijs said that if tourism wants to become sustainable, it needs to measure profit not only in economic terms, but also in social terms. </p>
<p dir="ltr">“You can’t only look at the tourists and businesses, you have to involve your residents too,” Nijs said. “We want to strengthen [tourism] as a positive driver for the benefit of inhabitants, entrepreneurs and visitors.”</p>
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<title>20 Reasons to Travel to Antarctica Now (Before It Changes)</title>
<link>https://www.flyingcarpetnews.com/20-reasons-to-travel-to-antarctica-now-before-it-changes</link>
<guid>https://www.flyingcarpetnews.com/20-reasons-to-travel-to-antarctica-now-before-it-changes</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Original content owned &amp; copyrighted by Green Global Travel.
There are more opportunities to travel to Antarctica today than there ever have been before, but most people still relegate this trip to the “someday” category. A bucket list destination for many nature lovers, Antarctica is a remote and isolated continent full of inspiring natural wonder. It’s widely regarded as one of the most strikingly Keep Reading
The post 20 Reasons to Travel to Antarctica Now (Before It Changes) appeared first on Green Global Travel. ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Mon, 06 Nov 2023 16:17:14 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Reasons, Travel, Antarctica, Now, Before, Changes</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Original content owned & copyrighted by Green Global Travel.</p>
<p>There are more opportunities to travel to Antarctica today than there ever have been before, but most people still relegate this trip to the “someday” category.</p>
<p>A <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/worlds-largest-deserts-world-travel-bucket-list/"><strong><span>bucket list destination</span></strong></a> for many nature lovers, Antarctica is a remote and isolated continent full of inspiring natural wonder.</p>
<p>It’s widely regarded as one of the most strikingly beautiful places on the planet, with pristine landscapes and a wealth of <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/indian-animals-indian-wildlife-species/"><strong><span>wildlife</span></strong></a> thriving in one of the last corners of the <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/earth-day-facts-history/"><strong><span>Earth</span></strong></a> that development hasn’t truly touched.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>But with a rapidly warming climate changing the ice-covered landscape and limited space to satisfy an ever-increasing tourism demand, those who wait might find themselves too late to see the continent at its best.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>The following are 20 great reasons to travel to Antarctica now, before your personal “someday” never comes.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p><em><strong>READ MORE: </strong></em><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/what-is-ecotourism-history-principles-of-responsible-travel/"><strong>What Is Ecotourism? (The History & Principles of Responsible Travel)</strong></a></p>
<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-12407" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/icebergs-in-antarctica/img_4043-2/" rel="attachment wp-att-12407"><img decoding="async" fetchpriority="high" class="size-full wp-image-12407" src="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_40431.jpg" alt="Midnight Sunset in Antarctica" width="648" height="431" srcset="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_40431.jpg 648w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_40431-300x200.jpg 300w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_40431-600x400.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 648px) 100vw, 648px"></a><figcaption class="wp-caption-text">Midnight Sunset in Antarctica</figcaption></figure>
<h2>Reasons to Travel to Antarctica Guide</h2>
<ol>
<li><strong>The Antarctic Islands</strong></li>
<li><strong>Antarctic Wildlife</strong></li>
<li><strong>Penguins </strong></li>
<li><strong>Seals </strong></li>
<li><strong>Whales</strong></li>
<li><strong>Dolphins</strong></li>
<li><strong>Birds of Antarctica </strong></li>
<li><strong>The Adventure </strong></li>
<li><strong>Hiking</strong></li>
<li><strong>Kayaking</strong></li>
<li><strong>Visiting a Scientific Research Base</strong></li>
<li><strong>Zodiac Rides</strong></li>
<li><strong>Camping on the Ice</strong></li>
<li><strong>Taking the Polar Plunge</strong></li>
<li><strong>Unique Antarctica Photo Opportunities </strong></li>
<li><strong>Luxury Small Ship Cruising</strong></li>
<li><strong>Exploring a Relatively Untouched Frontier</strong></li>
<li><strong>Because the Climate is Changing</strong></li>
<li><strong>The Price Mirrors the Temperature</strong></li>
<li><strong>The Future of Antarctic Tourism is Uncertain</strong></li>
</ol>
<p><em><strong>READ MORE: </strong></em><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/going-green-earth-day-tips/"><strong>60 Earth Day Tips You Can Use Every Day</strong></a></p>
<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-9958" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/antarctica-polar-plunge-freakout/img_4284/" rel="attachment wp-att-9958"><img decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-9958" src="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_4284.jpg" alt="Weddell Seal in Antarctica" width="648" height="432" srcset="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_4284.jpg 648w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_4284-300x200.jpg 300w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_4284-600x400.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 648px) 100vw, 648px"></a><figcaption class="wp-caption-text">A Weddell Seal Waves at the Ocean Nova ship from a nearby Iceberg</figcaption></figure>
<h3><b>1. Travel to the Antarctic Islands</b></h3>
<p>While the mainland is often the primary attraction for people traveling to Antarctica, Antarctic cruises also take in many <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/polynesian-islands-polynesian-triangle/"><strong><span>fascinating islands</span></strong></a>.</p>
<p>These sub-Antarctic islands can be just as much a highlight of your trip, as they’re teeming with wildlife and a diverse landscape that ranges from ice shelves to volcanos.</p>
<p>The famous Falkland Islands are a true wildlife haven where you can see several species of penguin you won’t find on the mainland (including the Rockhopper, Magellanic, and Macaroni penguin).</p>
<p>Charles Darwin actually spent more time on the Falkland Islands than he did in the <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/galapagos-birds-galapagos-cruise/"><strong><span>Galapagos islands</span></strong></a>, because these islands are so rich in a diverse array of <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/arctic-animals-birds-mammals-whales/"><strong><span>polar wildlife</span></strong></a>.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/facts-about-elephants-world-elephant-day/"><strong><span>Elephant</span></strong></a> Island<b> </b>is much closer to the Antarctic Peninsula. Here travelers get to see first-hand the place where Ernest Shackleton and his crew sought refuge from the <a href="https://www.coolantarctica.com/Antarctica%20fact%20file/History/Shackleton-Endurance-Trans-Antarctic_expedition2.php">shipwreck of the Endurance</a>.</p>
<p>The <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/isla-de-ometepe-nicaragua-island/"><strong><span>island</span></strong></a> is also home to a large colony of Chinstrap and Gentoo penguins, as well as the colossal elephant seal (this is actually one of the best places in the world to find them). <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>And then you have Deception Island, which boasts an active volcano and a <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/most-colorful-beaches-for-your-world-travel-bucket-list/"><strong><span>black sand beach</span></strong></a> in the middle of Antarctica’s icy waters.</p>
<p>This is where many travelers choose to take the polar plunge, briefly swimming in the frigid sea before burying themselves in the warm sand of the geothermal volcano.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p><em><strong>READ MORE: </strong></em><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/best-exotic-islands-to-visit/"><strong>The 30 Best Exotic Islands to Visit (World Travel Bucket List)</strong></a></p>
<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-10341" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/penguins-of-antarctica-photo-gallery/img_3827/" rel="attachment wp-att-10341"><img decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-10341" src="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_3827.jpg" alt="Mating Chinstrap Penguins in Orne Harbour, Antarctica" width="648" height="432" srcset="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_3827.jpg 648w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_3827-300x200.jpg 300w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_3827-600x400.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 648px) 100vw, 648px"></a><figcaption class="wp-caption-text">A Mating Pair of Chinstrap Penguins</figcaption></figure>
<h3><b>2. Antarctic Wildlife</b></h3>
<p>Wildlife is obviously one of the biggest reasons to visit Antarctica. Despite being the most remote and isolated continent, this is a paradise for a number of species that thrive in a place where human presence has never taken off.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>Antarctic animals roam freely, and visiting the continent feels a bit like you’re living out a David Attenborough <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/the-top-10-oscar-nominated-environmental-documentaries/"><strong><span>documentary</span></strong></a>. Most of the <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/animals-that-live-in-the-amazon-rainforest/"><strong><span>animals</span></strong></a> here have no fear of close contact with humans.</p>
<p>In fact, many of them can be very curious. Penguins will often approach as you walk along the <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/best-beach-gear-for-national-beach-day/"><strong><span>beaches</span></strong></a>, Humpback whales will surface within 50 feet of your boat, and seals will saunter nearby.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>Unfortunately, there are an array of threats to the Antarctic environment, including climate change, overfishing, pollution, and the exploitation of natural resources.</p>
<p>Next, we’ll examine a few of the prominent species of Antarctic wildlife you can still see now.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p><em><strong>READ MORE: </strong></em><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/antarctic-animals-on-antarctica-cruise/"><strong>30 Antarctic Animals You Can See on an Antarctica Cruise</strong></a></p>
<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-10352" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/penguins-of-antarctica-photo-gallery/img_5123/" rel="attachment wp-att-10352"><img decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-10352" src="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_5123.jpg" alt="Baby Gentoo Penguin Chicks in Antarctica" width="648" height="432" srcset="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_5123.jpg 648w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_5123-300x200.jpg 300w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_5123-600x400.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 648px) 100vw, 648px"></a><figcaption class="wp-caption-text">Mama Gentoo Penguin in Antartica with Two Baby Chicks</figcaption></figure>
<h3><b>3. </b><b>Antarctic </b><b>Penguins<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b></h3>
<p>The charismatic penguins of Antarctica are always a highlight of any trip to the frozen continent. These funny, flightless <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/birds-of-iceland-an-introductory-guide/"><strong><span>birds</span></strong></a> are the most common animal you’ll see in Antarctica, with some colonies more densely populated than your average small city.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>The Emperor Penguin, with its bright yellow plumage and impressively tall stature, is one of the most iconic symbols of the South Pole. But they tend spend most of their time inland, which is usually out of reach for most Antarctic cruises.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>You will, however, see thousands of Chinstrap, Adelie, and Gentoo penguins. While these more diminutive species may not have the same star quality as the Emperor or King penguin, you may find their personalities more endearing.</p>
<p>Especially the little penguin chicks, which are often seen during the peak of Antarctica’s cruise season (<a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/atlanta-christmas-events/"><strong><span>December</span></strong></a> through February).</p>
<p><em><strong>READ MORE: </strong></em><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/penguins-of-antarctica-photo-gallery/"><strong>PHOTO GALLERY: Penguins of Antarctica</strong></a></p>
<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-9931" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/?attachment_id=9931" rel="attachment wp-att-9931"><img decoding="async" class="wp-image-9931 size-full" src="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_42961.jpg" alt="Crabeater Seal Yawning on an Iceberg in Antarctica" width="648" height="432" srcset="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_42961.jpg 648w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_42961-300x200.jpg 300w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_42961-600x400.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 648px) 100vw, 648px"></a><figcaption class="wp-caption-text">Crabeater Seal Yawning on an Iceberg in Antarctica</figcaption></figure>
<h3><b>4. </b><b>Antarctic </b><b>Seals<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b></h3>
<p>There are six different types of seals in Antarctica. While they tend to spend a lot of their time feeding <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/cancun-underwater-museum/"><strong><span>underwater</span></strong></a>, you’ll have a great chance to spot many of them sunning themselves on rocky shorelines or resting on top of ice floes.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>The largest and most spectacular species is the Elephant seal, and places like Elephant Island offer the chance to get up close and personal with the massive beasts.</p>
<p>Since they often weigh in excess of 8,000 pounds, they’re very slow moving, which makes for easy photo opportunities.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>Also keep an eye out for the Crabeater Seal, the cute Weddell Seal, and the Antarctic fur seal. Keep your distance from the fiercest of the lot, the Leopard seal, which is known to prey on penguins.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p><em><strong>READ MORE: </strong></em><strong><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/weird-animals-around-the-world/">70 Cool & Weird Animals from Around the World (An Epic Guide)</a></strong></p>
<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-10714" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/whales-that-live-in-antarctica/img_4827/" rel="attachment wp-att-10714"><img decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-10714" src="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_4827.jpg" alt="Humpback Whale in Antarctica" width="648" height="432" srcset="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_4827.jpg 648w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_4827-300x200.jpg 300w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_4827-600x400.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 648px) 100vw, 648px"></a><figcaption class="wp-caption-text">Eye-to-Eye with a Humpback Whale in Antarctica</figcaption></figure>
<h3><b>5. </b><b>Antarctic </b><b>Whales</b></h3>
<p>Antarctica truly puts the rest of the world to shame when it comes to whale watching: You can spot 10 different species of whales here.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>And when we say “spot,” we don’t mean merely catching glimpse of a tail off the in the distance through your binoculars. We mean drying off from the spray, because a Humpback whale has breached within a few hundred feet of your boat.</p>
<p>The reason you’ll find such a high concentration of whales in Antarctica?</p>
<p>The massive swarms of krill that live in these waters. Look out for the Minke whale, <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/blue-whale-facts/"><span><strong>Blue whale</strong></span></a>, Sperm whale, Southern right whale, and Humpback whale, all of whom are motivated by the invitation of a buffet feast! <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p><em><strong>READ MORE: </strong></em><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/whales-that-live-in-antarctica/"><strong>Seeing Whales That Live in Antarctica: A Dream Come True!</strong></a></p>
<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-10711" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/whales-that-live-in-antarctica/img_3945/" rel="attachment wp-att-10711"><img decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-10711" src="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_3945.jpg" alt="Antarctic Killer Whales in Antarctica" width="648" height="431" srcset="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_3945.jpg 648w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_3945-300x200.jpg 300w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_3945-600x400.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 648px) 100vw, 648px"></a><figcaption class="wp-caption-text">Our First Sighting: Antarctic Killer Whales</figcaption></figure>
<h3><b>6. Dolphins</b></h3>
<p>If you’re a fan of cetaceans, you’ll be pleased to find an abundance of dolphins in Antarctica as well.</p>
<p>Dusky <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/maui-dolphin/"><span><strong>dolphins</strong></span></a> are the most commonly seen species, especially around <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/the-end-of-the-world-ushuaia-argentina/"><strong><span>Ushuaia, Argentina</span></strong></a> as you’re navigating the Beagle Channel at the start and/or end of your cruise.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>You should also keep a keen eye out for the Orca. While commonly known as the killer whale, the orca is actually the world’s largest species of <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/captive-dolphin-facilities/"><strong><span>dolphin</span></strong></a>.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>It has been estimated that more than 70,000 killer whales live in the oceans around Antarctica. If you’re lucky you might be lucky enough to catch sight of a hunt, which they often do in partnership as a pod.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p><em><strong>READ MORE: </strong></em><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/cool-weird-ocean-animals-around-the-world/"><strong>30 Cool & Weird Ocean Animals Around the World</strong></a></p>
<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-42125" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/travel-to-antarctica/south-polar-skua/" rel="attachment wp-att-42125"><img decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-42125" src="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/South-polar-skua.jpg" alt="Birds in Antarctica" width="690" height="440" srcset="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/South-polar-skua.jpg 690w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/South-polar-skua-300x191.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 690px) 100vw, 690px"></a><figcaption class="wp-caption-text">South Polar Skua via Canva</figcaption></figure>
<h3><b>7. Birds of Antarctica<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b></h3>
<p>Antarctica is a fantastic destination for anyone with a love of <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/birds-in-the-amazon-rainforest/"><strong><span>birds</span></strong></a> (or at least a healthy fascination). The continent is home to over 100 million seabirds, which are also scattered throughout the sub-Antarctic islands.</p>
<p>You’ll find fascinating species such as the aforementioned penguins, fulmars, petrels, prions, and the Southern royal albatross.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>While the albatross is an iconic species (its 9.5- to 11-foot wingspan is the largest of any bird on the planet), it’s the South Polar Skuas you should really watch out for.</p>
<p>The skua is a bulky brown seabird that often strategically chooses to nest around penguin colonies. This enables them to swoop in unexpectedly and feed on eggs and newborn chicks.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p><em><strong>READ MORE: </strong></em><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/where-penguins-live/"><strong>5 Places Where Penguins Live (& Best Times to See Them There)</strong></a></p>
<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-10178" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/how-do-you-get-to-antarctica-without-crossing-drake-passage/img_3390/" rel="attachment wp-att-10178"><img decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-10178" src="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_3390.jpg" alt="Teniente R. Marsh Airport, Antarctica" width="648" height="354" srcset="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_3390.jpg 648w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_3390-300x164.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 648px) 100vw, 648px"></a><figcaption class="wp-caption-text">On the Ground at King George Island’s Teniente R. Marsh Airport in Antarctica</figcaption></figure>
<h3><b>8. The Antarctica Adventure<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b></h3>
<p>Antarctica is one of those rare, remote destinations where the process of getting there is a huge part of the adventure.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>The <a href="https://www.cntraveler.com/stories/2015-05-21/through-the-drake-passage-what-its-like-to-cross-the-worlds-roughest-seas">Drake Passage</a> is widely considered one of the most turbulent stretches of ocean you’ll ever cross.</p>
<p>However, tourism flights to Antarctica have recently been introduced. Because of unpredictable weather conditions plan on adding a few extra days to your itinerary to arrive and depart.</p>
<p>Once you get there, the adventure never ends. Next, we’ll take a look at the huge range of incredibly cool things to do in Antarctica.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p><em><strong>READ MORE: </strong></em><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/how-do-you-get-to-antarctica-without-crossing-drake-passage/"><strong>How Do You Get To Antarctica Without Crossing The Drake Passage?</strong></a></p>
<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-19175" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/?attachment_id=19175" rel="attachment wp-att-19175"><img decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-19175" src="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/564518_558257944202151_174638906_n.jpg" alt="Travel Fashion: Wearing Eddie Bauer in Antarctica" width="648" height="620" srcset="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/564518_558257944202151_174638906_n.jpg 648w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/564518_558257944202151_174638906_n-300x287.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 648px) 100vw, 648px"></a><figcaption class="wp-caption-text">Hiking in Antarctica Bret Love & Mary Gabbett</figcaption></figure>
<h3><b>9. </b><b>Antarctica </b><b>Hiking</b></h3>
<p>Most people who travel to Antarctica want to set foot on the continent, so <strong><span>hiking</span></strong> its icy landscape is a huge draw. It doesn’t matter how in shape you are: There are <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/hiking-corcovado-national-park-costa-rica/"><strong><span>hiking opportunities</span></strong></a> for practically every fitness level, and most of them are non-technical.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>Whether you’re taking a short walk across a volcanic beach rocky or hiking up a short hill to a glacial lookout, the scenery that surrounds you is so stunning that you won’t even notice the exercise.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>After all, in what other destination on Earth will you have a chance to trek across an ice shelf to a beautiful bay filled with glistening icebergs, passing through the middle of a massive penguin colony along the way?</p>
<p><em><strong>READ MORE: </strong></em><strong><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/letter-to-my-younger-self/">50+ Pieces of Advice I Would Include in a Letter To My Younger Self</a></strong></p>
<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-42139" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/travel-to-antarctica/antarctica-kayaking/" rel="attachment wp-att-42139"><img decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-42139" src="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Antarctica-Kayaking.jpg" alt="Kayaking in Antarctica" width="690" height="440" srcset="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Antarctica-Kayaking.jpg 690w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Antarctica-Kayaking-300x191.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 690px) 100vw, 690px"></a><figcaption class="wp-caption-text">Kayaking in Antarctica via Canva</figcaption></figure>
<h3><b>10. </b><b>Antarctica </b><b>Kayaking</b></h3>
<p>If you’ve never <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/kayaking-hiking-the-dolomites-in-italy/"><strong><span>kayaked</span></strong></a> in the open sea before, Antarctica is a magical place to do it for the first time. It’s also one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the exceptional scenery you see from the ship.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>As you <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/best-canoe-trips-world-travel-bucket-list/"><strong><span>paddle</span></strong></a> through the area’s icy waters, you’ll get up close to towering icebergs and have a chance to explore inlets that are too small for the cruise ship to navigate.</p>
<p>You may find yourself face to face with penguins, whales, and/or seals, getting a rare chance to see them at eye level as they swim alongside you.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>Kayaking is typically a limited activity that you may have to book as an extra. It’s well worth booking in advance if it’s something you really want to do, as this is a popular activity, and the spaces often fill up quickly.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p><em><strong>READ MORE: </strong></em><strong><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/harmful-traditions-cultural-practices/">15 Harmful Traditions & Cultural Practices Tourists Should Never Support</a></strong></p>
<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-42141" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/travel-to-antarctica/almirante-brown-station-argentine-antarctic-base-scientific-research-station-2/" rel="attachment wp-att-42141"><img decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-42141" src="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Almirante-Brown-Station-Argentine-Antarctic-Base-Scientific-Research-Station-1.jpg" alt="Almirante Brown Station, Argentine Antarctic Base & Scientific Research Station" width="690" height="440" srcset="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Almirante-Brown-Station-Argentine-Antarctic-Base-Scientific-Research-Station-1.jpg 690w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Almirante-Brown-Station-Argentine-Antarctic-Base-Scientific-Research-Station-1-300x191.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 690px) 100vw, 690px"></a><figcaption class="wp-caption-text">Almirante Brown Station, Argentine Antarctic Base & Scientific Research Station via Canva</figcaption></figure>
<h3><b>11. Visiting an </b><b>Antarctica </b><b>Scientific Research Base</b></h3>
<p>Visiting a <a href="https://www.worldatlas.com/articles/30-countries-with-antarctic-research-stations.html">scientific research base</a> is an unexpected highlight of most Antarctic cruise itineraries. Roughly 30 <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/safest-countries-in-the-middle-east-for-americans-to-visit/"><strong><span>countries</span></strong></a> have scientific research bases set up across Antarctica.</p>
<p>The scientists based there are continuously studying the climate, <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/worlds-best-wildlife-parks-wildlife-tours/"><strong><span>wildlife</span></strong></a>, and geology of the region. And while some might resemble a run-down shack on a hillside, others are slick, modern villages the size of a <a href="https://blueridgemountainstravelguide.com/best-small-towns-in-north-carolina/">small town</a>.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>Most cruises to Antarctica offer the chance to visit a couple of research bases, allowing you to walk around the facilities and chat to the staff who work on the base.</p>
<p>This is a great opportunity to gain insight into the realities of human life in Antarctica. It’s from here that you’ll be able to send postcards to friends and family, drink at an Antarctic bar, or add unique stamps to your passport.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>These bases are considered the territory of the country that runs them, so you can easily visit <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/chilean-wildlife-torres-del-paine-national-park-chile/"><strong><span>Chile</span></strong></a> and Russia (and get those cool stamps) in the same day.</p>
<p>Because the political and economic priorities of these countries may shift over time, it’s a good idea to travel now for this experience, while Antarctic research still receives a good deal of funding!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p><em><strong>READ MORE: </strong></em><strong><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/galapagos-islands-animals-photo-gallery/">30 Amazing Galapagos Islands Animals</a></strong></p>
<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-12398" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/icebergs-in-antarctica/img_3574/" rel="attachment wp-att-12398"><img decoding="async" class="wp-image-12398 size-full" src="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_3574.jpg" alt="Icebergs in Antarctica" width="648" height="432" srcset="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_3574.jpg 648w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_3574-300x200.jpg 300w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_3574-600x400.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 648px) 100vw, 648px"></a><figcaption class="wp-caption-text">Zodiac Ride next to Icebergs in Antarctica</figcaption></figure>
<h3><b>12. </b><b>Antarctica </b><b>Zodiac Rides</b></h3>
<p>While Zodiacs are generally used as a practical way of transporting travelers from ship to shore, these small, motorized rubber <a href="https://blueridgemountainstravelguide.com/lake-blue-ridge-boat-rentals-cabin-rentals-camping-fishing/">boats</a> also make for great cruising on their own.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>Zodiac adventures allow travelers to access more remote <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/things-to-do-in-tenerife-canary-islands/"><strong><span>islands</span></strong></a>, go ashore on beaches, and cruise through channels that are too small for a full-sized ship.</p>
<p>But unlike a kayak, a Zodiac has the power to take off quickly if you spot whales or other <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/best-national-parks-in-the-world-wildlife/"><strong><span>wildlife</span></strong></a> in the distance.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p><em><strong>READ MORE: </strong></em><strong><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/how-to-avoid-products-with-palm-oil/">How To Avoid Products With Palm Oil (Including Your Favorite Brands)</a></strong></p>
<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-42140" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/travel-to-antarctica/ice-camp-over-ice-flow-in-antarctica/" rel="attachment wp-att-42140"><img decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-42140" src="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Ice-Camp-over-Ice-Flow-in-Antarctica.jpg" alt="Camping in Antarctica" width="690" height="440" srcset="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Ice-Camp-over-Ice-Flow-in-Antarctica.jpg 690w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Ice-Camp-over-Ice-Flow-in-Antarctica-300x191.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 690px) 100vw, 690px"></a><figcaption class="wp-caption-text">Camping in Antarctica via Canva</figcaption></figure>
<h3><b>13. Camping on </b><b>Antarctica </b><b>Ice</b></h3>
<p>While your cruise ship may have all the luxuries of home– a comfy bed, hot shower, entertainment, prepared foods– some adventurous travelers willingly trade all of that for a night out on the Antarctic ice.</p>
<p>Camping in Antarctica is an incredible way to immerse yourself in the landscape and experience the type of bare-bones accommodation that explorers like Ernest Shackleton endured.</p>
<p>Your camping gear will be provided, but that doesn’t mean you should expect to be issued a tent. Many Antarctic camping excursions require you to hike to the top of a <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/kenai-fjords-glacier-lodge-kenai-fjords-national-park-tours/"><strong><span>glacier</span></strong></a> and dig yourself a hole!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>Of course, you’ll be given a sleeping bag, a mat, and a waterproof bivvy bag, settling down as an ocean of stars emerge above.</p>
<p>It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience to watch as the midnight sun sets and allow yourself to be engulfed by the continent’s vast silence. You may wake up to the sounds of ice calving off nearby glaciers, or penguins calling out for their mates.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p><em><strong>READ MORE: </strong></em><strong><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/what-is-glamping-luxury-camping/">What is Glamping? (A Introductory Guide to Luxury Camping)</a></strong></p>
<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-38674" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/antarctica-polar-plunge-freakout/photo-by-andre_belem-2/" rel="attachment wp-att-38674"><img decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-38674" src="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/Photo-by-Andre_Belem.jpg" alt="Bret Love & Mary Gabbett Taking the Polar Plunge in Antarctica" width="643" height="458" srcset="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/Photo-by-Andre_Belem.jpg 643w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/Photo-by-Andre_Belem-300x214.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 643px) 100vw, 643px"></a><figcaption class="wp-caption-text">Bret Love & Mary Gabbett Taking the Polar Plunge in Antarctica</figcaption></figure>
<h3><b>14. Taking the Polar Plunge in </b><b>Antarctica</b></h3>
<p>A swimsuit may not be the first thing you think to pack for Antarctica, but the Polar Plunge is a long-held tradition among adventurous travelers.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>Jumping in for a brief dip into sub-freezing cold waters is considered a rite of passage for Antarctic explorers.</p>
<p>Depending on your Antarctic cruise itinerary, you may have the chance to jump from your ship or swim out from the shore of the beach at Deception Island.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>When your warm skin hits those 29º Fahrenheit waters, the adrenaline rush actually prevents you from going into shock.</p>
<p>Thankfully, you won’t spend more than a few seconds in the water, and there’s often a shot of liquor on hand to warm you up as you get out.</p>
<p><em><strong>READ MORE: </strong></em><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/antarctica-polar-plunge-freakout/"><strong>Mary’s Hilarious Freakout During the Polar Plunge in Antarctica</strong></a></p>
<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-11175" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/sponsorships/eddiebauer-antarctica/" rel="attachment wp-att-11175"><img decoding="async" class=" wp-image-11175" src="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/EddieBauer-Antarctica.jpg" alt="Eddie Bauer First Ascent Jackets in Antarctica" width="306" height="438" srcset="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/EddieBauer-Antarctica.jpg 229w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/EddieBauer-Antarctica-209x300.jpg 209w" sizes="(max-width: 306px) 100vw, 306px"></a><figcaption class="wp-caption-text">Antarctica Photo Spot</figcaption></figure>
<h3><b>15. Unique Antarctica Photo Opportunities<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b></h3>
<p>In this era of Instagram, it’s increasingly rare to come home with <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/before-they-pass-away-jimmy-nelson-photographer/"><strong><span>unique vacation photos</span></strong></a>.</p>
<p>From the Grand Canyon and the Eiffel Tower to the Taj Mahal, many of the world’s most iconic destinations suffer from <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/effects-mass-tourism-overtourism-destroying-destinations/"><strong><span>overtourism</span></strong></a> and the landmarks have been photographed to death.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>But, for now, Antarctica remains a relatively off-the-beaten-path destination that few have had the privilege of visiting. Around 45,000 people travel to Antarctica each year, compared to the five million who visit the aforementioned attractions annually.</p>
<p>So you can take pride in photographing scenes most people have never seen before, such as ice calving from glacier or a kayaker moving through the water in the shadow of a humpback whale.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>These days almost everyone throws their photos up on social media after a trip.</p>
<p>But the pictures you take in Antarctica are the type you’ll actually want to print or possibly even make a photo book from. They’re memories you’ll want to revisit for the rest of your life.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p><em><strong>READ MORE: </strong></em><strong><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/best-festivals-in-the-world/">The 20 Best Festivals In The World (For Your World Travel Bucket List)</a></strong></p>
<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-12401" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/icebergs-in-antarctica/img_4285/" rel="attachment wp-att-12401"><img decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-12401" src="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_4285.jpg" alt="Antarctica Cruise Ship with Crabeater Seal on an Iceberg" width="648" height="432" srcset="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_4285.jpg 648w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_4285-300x200.jpg 300w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_4285-600x400.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 648px) 100vw, 648px"></a><figcaption class="wp-caption-text">Antarctica Cruise Ship with Crabeater Seal on an Iceberg</figcaption></figure>
<h3><b>16. Luxury Small Ship Cruises in </b><b>Antarctica</b></h3>
<p>Whether it’s high-rise apartments replacing family homes or a shrinking amount of leg space in economy, the trend these days seems to be about maximizing profits by cramming in as many bodies as possible.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>Many destinations are now buckling under the strain of mass tourism, but thus far Antarctica has yet to fall prey to it. Still, with Antarctic tourism numbers tripling in the past 20 years, who knows how much longer that will be the case?</p>
<p><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/small-ship-cruises-world-travel-bucket-list/"><span><b>Small ship cruises</b></span></a>– which are generally limited to less than 200 passengers– allow for a much more intimate and immersive experience. It also gives you the chance to enjoy true luxury, and it’s also better for the <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/facts-about-deforestation-effects-on-the-environment/"><strong><span>environment</span></strong></a> than massive cruise ships.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>Life onboard today’s best Antarctic cruise ships is the opposite of the conditions the early explorers had to endure.</p>
<p>You’ll have access to luxury spas, fitness rooms, fine dining, fully stocked libraries, expert guest lecturers, and outdoor hot tubs that allow you to literally soak in the view.</p>
<p><em><strong>READ MORE: </strong></em><strong><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/best-caribbean-islands-to-visit/">20 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit (If You Love Nature & Hate Crowds)</a></strong></p>
<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-12402" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/icebergs-in-antarctica/img_4756/" rel="attachment wp-att-12402"><img decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-12402" src="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_4756.jpg" alt="Exploring the Icebergs Around Spert Island, Antarctica" width="648" height="432" srcset="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_4756.jpg 648w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_4756-300x200.jpg 300w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_4756-600x400.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 648px) 100vw, 648px"></a><figcaption class="wp-caption-text">Exploring the Icebergs Around Spert Island, Antarctica</figcaption></figure>
<h3><b>17. Exploring a Relatively Untouched Frontier</b></h3>
<p>Despite the increase in travelers to Antarctica over the last few decades, it’s by far the world’s least visited continent.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>This is one of the biggest reasons to visit now: Antarctica is one of the rare places in the world that still feels largely untouched by man. When you go there, you feel like an intrepid explorer as opposed to a typical cruise ship passenger.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>As you’re hiking across vast glaciers, with penguins hopping alongside you and icebergs dotting the horizon, it hits you that you’re doing things that go beyond the realms of typical travel.</p>
<p>It’s something that very few people in the world have ever had the chance to do, which makes the experience feel truly special.</p>
<p><strong><em>READ MORE: </em><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/interesting-facts-about-snow-leopards/">40 Interesting Facts About Snow Leopards</a></strong></p>
<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-12404" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/icebergs-in-antarctica/img_4609/" rel="attachment wp-att-12404"><img decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-12404" src="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_4609.jpg" alt="Icebergs Near Spert Island, Antarctica" width="648" height="432" srcset="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_4609.jpg 648w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_4609-300x200.jpg 300w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_4609-600x400.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 648px) 100vw, 648px"></a><figcaption class="wp-caption-text">Close-Up Views of Icebergs Near Spert Island, Antarctica</figcaption></figure>
<h3><b>18. Because the Climate is Changing</b></h3>
<p>The effect of climate change in Antarctica is more obvious than in other parts of the world. This is not the same Antarctica that Shackleton and Mawson explored a century ago. And in as little as 5 to 10 years, science suggests it won’t be the same as it is today.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>Temperatures in the Antarctic Peninsula have risen by 5º Fahrenheit since 1950. In fact, Antarctica is warming more rapidly than any other region on earth, making it one of the destinations most vulnerable to the effects of climate change.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>The oceans surrounding Antarctica continue to rise as large ice shelves like the Larsen-C break off, and the continent’s largest glaciers continue to recede.</p>
<p>Warming oceans mean that Antarctic ice is melting at an alarming rate– five times faster than it should.</p>
<p>A large part of the continent is gradually disappearing, and in the future major ice breaks could cause huge issues for visiting cruise ships.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p><em><strong>READ MORE: </strong></em><strong><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/lessons-quotes-from-the-lorax/">10 Eco Lessons in Quotes from the Lorax (Dr Seuss’s Classic)</a></strong></p>
<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-12399" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/icebergs-in-antarctica/img_3623/" rel="attachment wp-att-12399"><img decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-12399" src="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_3623.jpg" alt="Icebergs in Antarctica" width="648" height="432" srcset="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_3623.jpg 648w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_3623-300x200.jpg 300w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_3623-600x400.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 648px) 100vw, 648px"></a><figcaption class="wp-caption-text">Smooth Waters Made For Mirror-Like Reflections of Icebergs in Antarctica</figcaption></figure>
<h3><b>19. The Price Mirrors the Temperature</b></h3>
<p>As the temperature in Antarctica continues to rise, so does the cost of visiting. This is the result of rising fuel costs, as well as an increased demand for tourism to the region.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>In order to preserve the pristine environment, Antarctic <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wildlife-conservationists-animal-rights-activists/"><strong><span>conservation</span></strong></a> laws limit the number of cruise ships and passengers allowed to sail through at any one time.</p>
<p>Since the season for available departures is already such a small window (late October through March), increased tourism demand makes availability more limited.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>Some small ship cruises are already starting to fill up more than a year in advance, and these days most sail at full capacity. So with every year that passes, not only does the price increase, but it may become harder and harder to book a spot.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p><em><strong>READ MORE:</strong></em><strong><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/tlingit-art-culture-history-alaska/">30 Facts About Tlingit Art, Culture & the History of Alaska’s Native Tribes</a></strong></p>
<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-10339" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/penguins-of-antarctica-photo-gallery/img_3727/" rel="attachment wp-att-10339"><img decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-10339" src="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_3727.jpg" alt="Chinstrap Penguin Above Orne Harbour, Antarctica" width="648" height="432" srcset="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_3727.jpg 648w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_3727-300x200.jpg 300w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_3727-600x400.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 648px) 100vw, 648px"></a><figcaption class="wp-caption-text">Chinstrap Penguin Above Orne Harbour with tourist ship in background</figcaption></figure>
<h3><b>20. The Future of Antarctic Tourism is Uncertain</b></h3>
<p>The governing bodies who regulate Antarctic tourism, such as the IAATO, have strict regulations in place in order to ensure that all tourism is undertaken responsibly, without any adverse effects to the local environment.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>But some environmentalists have argued that the most responsible thing we can do for Antarctica is not to travel there at all.</p>
<p>While this faction is quite small, there is always the future possibility that, for the sake of conservation, visitor numbers may be further restricted or cut off entirely.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>So, as the preservation of Antarctica has become a matter of global importance and international treaties like the Paris Agreement have been enacted to address global warming, the future of travel to Antarctica remains uncertain.</p>
<p>If you don’t visit Antarctica soon, it simply may not be an option when your “someday” finally comes. <b><i>–by Megan Jerrard courtesy <a href="https://greentravelmedia.com/">Green Travel Media</a>, all photo by Bret Love & Mary Gabbett unless otherwise noted.</i></b></p>
<p>BIO: <i>Megan Jerrard is an Australian Journalist and the founder and Senior Editor of </i><a href="https://www.mappingmegan.com/"><b><i>Mapping Megan</i></b></a><i>, an award-winning travel blog bringing you the latest in adventure travel from all over the globe.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></i></p>
<p> </p>
<p>The post <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/travel-to-antarctica/">20 Reasons to Travel to Antarctica Now (Before It Changes)</a> appeared first on <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/">Green Global Travel</a>.</p>]]> </content:encoded>
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<title>Southwest Airlines Partners with USA BioEnergy for 680 Million Gallons of Sustainable Aviation Fuel</title>
<link>https://www.flyingcarpetnews.com/southwest-airlines-partners-with-usa-bioenergy-for-680-million-gallons-of-sustainable-aviation-fuel</link>
<guid>https://www.flyingcarpetnews.com/southwest-airlines-partners-with-usa-bioenergy-for-680-million-gallons-of-sustainable-aviation-fuel</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Southwest Airlines has entered into a significant offtake agreement with USA BioEnergy for up to 680 million gallons of neat sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). Over a 20-year term, once blended with conventional jet fuel, this SAF could yield the equivalent of 2.59 billion gallons of net-zero fuel, resulting in a reduction of 30 million metric tons of CO2 emissions. ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Mon, 06 Nov 2023 16:16:56 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Southwest, Airlines, Partners, with, USA, BioEnergy, for, 680, Million, Gallons, Sustainable, Aviation, Fuel</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Southwest Airlines Co. (“Southwest”) announced an offtake agreement with USA BioEnergy, LLC (“USA BioEnergy”), for up to 680 million gallons of neat sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). Over the term of the 20-year agreement, once blended with conventional jet fuel, the SAF could produce the equivalent of 2.59 billion gallons of net-zero1 fuel and avoid 30 million metric tons of CO2.</p>
<p>Southwest® plans to begin purchasing SAF from USA BioEnergy’s facility near Bon Wier, Texas, as early as 2028. Additionally, as part of the offtake agreement, Southwest and USA BioEnergy have established a long-term strategic relationship offering Southwest the opportunity to purchase up to another projected 180 million gallons of SAF per year from future planned production facilities.</p>
<p>“This offtake agreement with USA BioEnergy marks important progress in the development of our SAF portfolio and furthers our goal to replace 10 percent of our total jet fuel consumption with SAF by 2030,” said Michael AuBuchon, Managing Director Fuel Strategy and Management at Southwest Airlines. “We look forward to the opportunity to grow our strategic relationship with USA BioEnergy and potentially purchase more SAF from them in the future.”</p>
<p>“Our agreement with Southwest Airlines is a perfect fit because it aligns Southwest’s goal of reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2050 and USA BioEnergy’s goal of becoming the leading producer of carbon-negative fuel,” said David Prom, Chairman of the Board, Co-Founder of USA BioEnergy. “USA BioEnergy is excited to work with Southwest on this initial project and, potentially, future sites we may add in our pipeline.”</p>
<p>Southwest recognizes the critical role that commercially viable SAF will play in the carrier’s strategy to achieve its near-term and long-term carbon goals and is taking action to forge relationships across the aviation value chain to proactively address the challenges on the path to its goal of net zero carbon emissions by 2050. For more on the carrier’s SAF strategy, visit southwest.com/SAF.</p>
<p>Net zero is determined by a fuel with a carbon intensity of zero (0) gCO2e/MJ or lower on a lifecycle basis.</p>]]> </content:encoded>
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<title>5 Ways to Connect with Wildlife Researchers on Australia Vacations</title>
<link>https://www.flyingcarpetnews.com/5-ways-to-connect-with-wildlife-researchers-on-australia-vacations</link>
<guid>https://www.flyingcarpetnews.com/5-ways-to-connect-with-wildlife-researchers-on-australia-vacations</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Original content owned &amp; copyrighted by Green Global Travel.
This post is brought to you in partnership with Australian Wildlife Journeys. But our opinions remain our own, and we will never compromise the integrity of our responsible travel mission.   For most of us, a dream vacation to Australia conjures up images of one-of-a-kind wildlife that is endemic to the continent, as well as Keep Reading
The post 5 Ways to Connect with Wildlife Researchers on Australia Vacations appeared first on Green Global Travel. ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Tue, 31 Oct 2023 00:12:14 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Ways, Connect, with, Wildlife, Researchers, Australia, Vacations</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Original content owned & copyrighted by Green Global Travel.</p>
<p><em><strong>This post is brought to you in partnership with Australian Wildlife Journeys. But our opinions remain our own, and we will never compromise the integrity of our responsible travel mission.</strong></em></p>
<p> </p>
<p>For most of us, a dream vacation to Australia conjures up images of one-of-a-kind wildlife that is endemic to the continent, as well as the array of ocean animals that swim offshore.</p>
<p>A trip Down Under simply wouldn’t be complete without some sort of sensational animal spotting.</p>
<p>Australian vacations can be an equally amazing opportunity to spot these amazing animals while also helping the wildlife conservationists working to preserve them for future generations to enjoy.</p>
<p>When you pursue <strong><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/australian-wildlife-encounters/">Australian wildlife encounters</a></strong> with conservationists as your guides, the experience automatically comes with a wealth of interesting knowledge and know-how.</p>
<p>After all, these passionate folks spend their professional lives studying and protecting the animals they love!</p>
<p>In short, meeting up with wildlife conservationists adds an unforgettable element to any vacation to Australia. Their professional guidance adds so much more appreciation for the animals and color to the experience.</p>
<p>Fortunately, it’s an easy thing to do. Lots of environmental organizations offer awesome options for traveling Australia while also putting money towards the conservation of Australian animals.</p>
<p><a href="https://australianwildlifejourneys.com/">Australian Wildlife Journeys</a> is a fantastic place to begin the search, and what follows is a guide to five of their top conservation-focused tours…</p>
<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-41308" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/australian-wildlife-encounters/big-animal-encounters-australia-1/" rel="attachment wp-att-41308"><img decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-41308" src="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/big-animal-encounters-Australia-1.jpg" alt="Big Animal Encounters - Humpback Whales" width="690" height="342" srcset="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/big-animal-encounters-Australia-1.jpg 690w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/big-animal-encounters-Australia-1-300x149.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 690px) 100vw, 690px"></a><figcaption class="wp-caption-text">Humpback Whales in Hervey Bay courtesy of Ultimate Hervey Bay Whale Watching</figcaption></figure>
<h3>1.Ultimate Hervey Bay Whale Watching</h3>
<p>Queensland’s warm, shallow Hervey Bay is the first official Whale Heritage Site in the world. Thousands of Humpback Whales visit its waters every year between July and October.</p>
<p>The Humpback Whales in Hervey Bay are renowned for being extraordinarily active. Breaches, tail slaps, and whale songs are very common here.</p>
<p>Hervey Bay is famed for its whale “muggings,” which is when whales are so curious that they stay near the vessel. By regulation, captains must wait for them to be at least 100 meters away before using the engines.</p>
<p>This bay is part of the Great Sandy Marine Park, so it also has plenty of Sea Turtles, Dolphins, Dugongs, and sea birds to see during your visit.</p>
<p>The Pacific Whale Foundation is an international NGO that has been conducting research in Hervey Bay for 30+ years now. In 2011, Pacific Whale Foundation Eco-Adventures Australia was founded as a subsidiary.</p>
<p>All proceeds from Australian whale watching tours hosted by PWFEAA go to support researching Dolphins and Whales, educating children about marine life, and conserving oceans around the world.</p>
<p>Led by Dr. Barry McGovern, their <a href="https://australianwildlifejourneys.com/wildlife-operator/pacific-whale-foundation-eco-adventures-australia/tour/ultimate-hervey-bay-whale-watching">Ultimate Hervey Bay Tour</a> is a 3-hour journey that departs three times a day during the season.</p>
<p>The trip includes using underwater hydrophones for listening to whale songs live, with Dr. McGovern helping to explain the sounds in their songs.</p>
<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-40474" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/australian-wildlife-adventures/australian-sea-lion-and-crested-terns/" rel="attachment wp-att-40474"><img decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-40474" src="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Australian-Sea-Lion-and-Crested-Terns.jpeg" alt="Australian Sea Lion and Crested Terns on Kangaroo Island, Australia" width="690" height="461" srcset="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Australian-Sea-Lion-and-Crested-Terns.jpeg 690w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Australian-Sea-Lion-and-Crested-Terns-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Australian-Sea-Lion-and-Crested-Terns-600x400.jpeg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 690px) 100vw, 690px"></a><figcaption class="wp-caption-text">Australian Sea Lion & Crested Terns, photo courtesy Exceptional Kangaroo Island</figcaption></figure>
<h3><strong>2. Pelican Lagoon Research Centre on Kangaroo Island</strong></h3>
<p>Kangaroo Island is Australia’s third largest island, measuring 93 miles at its longest by 56 miles at its widest. </p>
<p>Over a third of Kangaroo Island is protected by national and conservation parks, so vacationing in Australia doesn’t get much wilder than this.</p>
<p>Much of the island’s habitat is woodland and mallee, a type of low-growing eucalyptus. It provides ideal homes for all sorts of wildlife, including Kangaroos, Wallabies, Echidnas, and Bandicoots.</p>
<p>The island is also a top spot for <strong><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/birdwatching-in-australia/">birdwatchers visiting Australia:</a></strong> Over 260 species of bush birds, water birds, and raptors have been seen in the region.</p>
<p>Exceptional Kangaroo Island is an award-winning tour operator with 30+ years of service. Their guides are connected throughout the island, offering visitors plenty of wildlife between stories, local wines, and fine meals.</p>
<p><a href="https://australianwildlifejourneys.com/wildlife-operator/exceptional-kangaroo-island/tour/kangaroo-island-immersion">Kangaroo Island Immersion</a> and <a href="https://australianwildlifejourneys.com/wildlife-operator/exceptional-kangaroo-island/tour/kangaroo-island-wildlife-photography-expedition">Kangaroo Island Wildlife Photograph Tours</a> are two of Exceptional Kangaroo Island’s tours that include visits to Pelican Lagoon, a seawater lagoon on the island’s northern end.</p>
<p>The Pelican Lagoon Research & Wildlife Centre has been a bastion of Echidna research on Kangaroo Island.</p>
<p>Interested participants can take a bush walk with Dr. Peggy Rismiller, an Echidna expert who has been working with these elusive loners since 1988.</p>
<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-41310" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/australian-wildlife-encounters/endemic-australian-animals-platypus-1/" rel="attachment wp-att-41310"><img decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-41310" src="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/endemic-australian-animals-Platypus-1.jpg" alt="Endemic Australian-animals - Duckbilled Platypus" width="690" height="360" srcset="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/endemic-australian-animals-Platypus-1.jpg 690w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/endemic-australian-animals-Platypus-1-300x157.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 690px) 100vw, 690px"></a><figcaption class="wp-caption-text">Duckbilled Platypus courtesy of FNQ Nature Tours</figcaption></figure>
<h3><strong>3. Australian Quoll Conservancy in Far North Queensland </strong></h3>
<p>Far North Queensland is perhaps <u>the</u> place to go as an animal enthusiast visiting Australia. The wet tropics there are teeming with wildlife, making it a once-in-a-lifetime <strong><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/animals-in-panama/">vacation in Australia for animal</a></strong> lovers.</p>
<p>This region is dominated by the Cape York Peninsula, which is accessed from the city of Cairns.</p>
<p>The area boasts three UNESCO World Heritage Sites– the Great Barrier Reef, the Wet Tropics of Queensland, and Riversleigh. There are also a whopping 70 Australian National Parks!</p>
<p>Animals commonly seen in Far North Queensland include Saltwater Crocodiles, Duck-billed Platypuses, Tree Kangaroos, Flying Foxes, Wallabies, and Southern Cassowaries.</p>
<p>FNQ Nature Tours offers a <a href="https://australianwildlifejourneys.com/wildlife-operator/fnq-nature-tours/tour/quolls-daintree-tropical-wetlands">4-Day Nature, Wildlife, & Conservation Safari</a> that tours the Wet Tropics Heritage site.</p>
<p>Guests on the tour will hook up with Alberto Vale, the president of the Australian Quoll Conservancy, which works to save all four of Oz’s species of Quoll.</p>
<p>Quolls are carnivorous, nocturnal marsupials endemic to Australia and Papua New Guinea. The Tiger Quoll (a.k.a. Spotted Quoll) is native to Far North Queensland, and other spots along Australia’s East Coast.</p>
<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-40281" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/great-places-to-see-wildlife-in-australia/killer-whales-in-bremer-canyon-australia-photo-courtesy-naturaliste-charters/" rel="attachment wp-att-40281"><img decoding="async" class="wp-image-40281" src="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Killer-Whales-in-Bremer-Canyon-Australia-photo-courtesy-Naturaliste-Charters-1024x768.jpeg" alt="Killer Whales in Bremer Canyon Australia photo courtesy Naturaliste Charters" width="690" height="518" srcset="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Killer-Whales-in-Bremer-Canyon-Australia-photo-courtesy-Naturaliste-Charters-1024x768.jpeg 1024w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Killer-Whales-in-Bremer-Canyon-Australia-photo-courtesy-Naturaliste-Charters-300x225.jpeg 300w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Killer-Whales-in-Bremer-Canyon-Australia-photo-courtesy-Naturaliste-Charters-768x576.jpeg 768w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Killer-Whales-in-Bremer-Canyon-Australia-photo-courtesy-Naturaliste-Charters-320x240.jpeg 320w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Killer-Whales-in-Bremer-Canyon-Australia-photo-courtesy-Naturaliste-Charters.jpeg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 690px) 100vw, 690px"></a><figcaption class="wp-caption-text">Killer Whales in Bremer Canyon Australia photo courtesy Naturaliste Charters</figcaption></figure>
<h3><strong>4. Explore Marine Biology with Naturaliste Charters</strong></h3>
<p>Australia gets tons of attention for its unique land-based fauna, but Aussie wildlife isn’t just terrestrial. This is the “island continent,” after all, and the waters around it are incredibly rich with marine mammals.</p>
<p>Whales are a big attraction for many Australia visitors, and most tours that seek out Whales also get a nice dose of Dolphins, Seals, Sharks, and massive seabirds.</p>
<p>In our experience, a trip to Australia isn’t complete without a few aquatic detours along the way!</p>
<p>Some of the whales frequently spotted along the Australian seashore include Orcas, Humpback Whales, and Southern Right Whales. Blue Whales and Minke Whales are also known to brush past Western Australia.</p>
<p>Naturaliste Charters offer up a trio of awesome whaling tours on the continent’s west coast:</p>
<ol>
<li><a href="https://australianwildlifejourneys.com/wildlife-operator/naturaliste-charters/tour/bremer-canyon-killer-whale-expedition">Bremer Canyon Killer Whale Expedition</a> specializes in Orcas from January through April. Over 100 “Killer Whales” return to the Bremer Canyon every year.</li>
<li><a href="https://australianwildlifejourneys.com/wildlife-operator/naturaliste-charters/tour/dunsborough-whale-watching">Dunsborough Whale Watching</a> looks for Humpbacks, Southern Right Whales, and those massive Blue Whales from late August through November.</li>
<li><a href="https://australianwildlifejourneys.com/wildlife-operator/naturaliste-charters/tour/augusta-whale-watching">Augusta Whale Watching</a> shows off Australia’s Humpback Whales from May to August, with high hopes of seeing calving Southern Right Whales in July and August.</li>
</ol>
<p>Marine biologist Bianca Uyen teaches Naturaliste Charters’ guests about using facial recognition programs for identifying individual whales, as well as recording the movements of Blue Whales.</p>
<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-41321" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/australian-wildlife-encounters/koala-encounters-australia/" rel="attachment wp-att-41321"><img decoding="async" class="wp-image-41321" src="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Koala-encounters-Australia-820x1024.jpg" alt="Koala encounters Australia" width="512" height="640" srcset="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Koala-encounters-Australia-820x1024.jpg 820w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Koala-encounters-Australia-240x300.jpg 240w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Koala-encounters-Australia-768x959.jpg 768w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Koala-encounters-Australia.jpg 1027w" sizes="(max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px"></a><figcaption class="wp-caption-text">Koala encounters courtesy of Echidna Walkabout Nature Tours</figcaption></figure>
<h3><strong>5. Echidna Walkabout Nature Tours </strong></h3>
<p>East Gippsland is where the cold Southern Ocean meets the warm Southern Pacific at the eastern corner of the state of Victoria. This combination creates one of the most diverse ecosystems in one tiny area.</p>
<p>East Gippsland has an alpine area in Snowy River National Park, giant eucalyptus groves, lush rainforests, and bird-laden estuaries in the Gippsland Lake District. All this diversity in landscape, of course, means lots of unique animals for visitors to see.</p>
<p>In this region, Parrots, Cockatoos, and Cuckoos are common. Kangaroos and Wallabies are often seen hopping about. Koalas and Possums play in the trees, while Wombats and Quolls explore the forest floor. </p>
<p>Mungo National Park is a <strong>UNESCO World Heritage Site </strong>famed for the historic Mungo Lady and Mungo Man, as well as the incredible wildlife that lives there. In our opinion, it’s one of the top Australia vacation spots.</p>
<p>Echidna Walkabout Nature Tours has been guiding visitors through these regions for decades now, and the founders of the company are also expert conservationists.</p>
<p>On their <a href="https://australianwildlifejourneys.com/wildlife-operator/echidna-walkabout-nature-tours/tour/mungo-outback-journey">Mungo Outback Journey</a>, Roger Smith leads guests through Mungo National Park, pointing out the effects of climate change while exploring riverine ecosystems and spotting Kangaroos, Emus, Parrots, and more.</p>
<p>Janine Duffy hosts folks on the Koala Recovery Experience and Post Bushfire Surveys in the East Gippsland region, involving travelers in their important conservation work. <strong><i>–by Jonathon Engels; all photos provided by Australian Wildlife Journeys</i></strong></p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wildlife-researchers-australia-vacations/">5 Ways to Connect with Wildlife Researchers on Australia Vacations</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/">Green Global Travel</a>.</p>]]> </content:encoded>
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<title>5 Places Where Penguins Live (&amp;amp; Best Times to See Them There)</title>
<link>https://www.flyingcarpetnews.com/5-places-where-penguins-live-best-times-to-see-them-there</link>
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Penguins are one of the most popular animals on the planet, and have been ever since movies like March of the Penguins and Happy Feet came out in 2005-2006.  But how much do you know about these beloved flightless birds? Do you know where penguins live, what they eat, how fast they can swim, or that they Keep Reading
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<pubDate>Tue, 31 Oct 2023 00:12:13 +0000</pubDate>
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<p>Penguins are one of the most popular animals on the planet, and have been ever since movies like <a href="https://amzn.to/3rvJvTk"><em>March of the Penguins</em></a> and <a href="https://amzn.to/3RL7pEL"><em>Happy Feet</em></a> came out in 2005-2006. </p>
<p>But how much do you know about these beloved <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/flightless-cormorant-mating-dance-galapagos-islands/"><strong><span>flightless birds</span></strong></a>? Do you know where penguins live, what they eat, how fast they can swim, or that they date back more than 60 million years?!</p>
<p>The 17 different species of penguins can be found on every continent in the Southern Hemisphere– Africa, Antarctica, Australia and South America.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>While most people associate these funny flightless waterfowl with the cold climate of Antarctica and the sub-Antarctic islands, they’re also seen as far north as the coasts of Namibia, Brazil, and the <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/galapagos-islands-animals-ecotourism-adventure/"><strong><span>Galapagos Islands</span></strong></a>.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>Read on for a look at the broad variety of places around the world where penguins live, as well as the best times of year to see them there…</p>
<p><em><strong>READ MORE: </strong></em><strong><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/cool-weird-ocean-animals-around-the-world/">30 Cool & Weird Ocean Animals Around the World</a></strong></p>
<p></p>
<h2>Where Do Penguins Live Guide</h2>
<ol>
<li><strong>Antarctica & The Antarctic Islands</strong></li>
<li><strong>Australia/New Zealand</strong></li>
<li><strong>Argentina/Chile</strong></li>
<li><strong>Galapagos Islands</strong></li>
<li><strong>South <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/countries-in-southern-africa-worth-visiting/">Africa</a></strong></li>
</ol>
<p><em><strong>READ MORE: </strong></em><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/weird-animals-around-the-world/"><strong>70 Cool & Weird Animals Around the World (An Epic Guide)</strong></a></p>
<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-10352" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/penguins-of-antarctica-photo-gallery/img_5123/" rel="attachment wp-att-10352"><img decoding="async" fetchpriority="high" class="size-full wp-image-10352" src="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_5123.jpg" alt="Baby Gentoo Penguin Chicks in Antarctica" width="648" height="432" srcset="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_5123.jpg 648w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_5123-300x200.jpg 300w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_5123-600x400.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 648px) 100vw, 648px"></a><figcaption class="wp-caption-text">Mama Gentoo Penguin in Antartica with Two Baby Chicks, photo by Bret Love & Mary Gabbett</figcaption></figure>
<h2><b>1. ANTARCTICA & THE ANTARCTIC ISLANDS</b></h2>
<p>If you’ve ever seen <a href="https://amzn.to/3LQ3P8K"><i>March of the Penguins</i></a>, you probably imagine the penguins of Antarctica all huddled together is massive colonies to shield their eggs from a blinding blizzard.</p>
<p>While that’s certainly a reality of life for some penguin species, it’s much easier for travelers to visit them during the <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/antarctica-polar-plunge-freakout/"><strong><span>Antarctic</span></strong></a> summer, when daytime temperatures often get into the 40s.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/how-do-you-get-to-antarctica-without-crossing-drake-passage/"><strong><span>Antarctica</span></strong></a> is home to four different species of Penguin, each of which has their own preferred habitat.</p>
<p>Emperor Penguins typically breed on pack ice and shelf ice (usually between the 66° and 77° south latitudes). But several breeding colonies have been found on land in recent years, including one at Amundsen Bay and another at Taylor Glacier in Victoria Land.</p>
<p>Chinstrap Penguins, Gentoo Penguins, and Adelie Penguins are all closely related and commonly seen.</p>
<p>Look for them nesting on rocks relatively close to shore on both the mainland and numerous Antarctic and sub-Antarctic islands, including the Danger Islands, the Falklands, and <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/grytviken-south-georgia-island/"><strong><span>South Georgia Islands</span></strong></a>.</p>
<p>The King Penguin is second only to the Emperor Penguin among the world’s largest penguins. They’re also one of the most plentiful penguin species, with an estimated 2.3 million breeding pairs.</p>
<p>Though you won’t see them on the mainland, they can be found on sub-Antarctic islands such as South Georgia, the Kerguelen Islands, Crozet Island, Prince Edward Islands, and more.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p><em><strong>READ MORE: </strong></em><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/penguins-of-antarctica-photo-gallery/"><strong>PHOTO GALLERY: Penguins of Antarctica</strong></a></p>
<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-41738" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/where-penguins-live/king-penguins-in-the-falkland-islands/" rel="attachment wp-att-41738"><img decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-41738" src="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/King-Penguins-in-the-Falkland-Islands.jpg" alt="King Penguins in the Falkland Islands" width="690" height="440" srcset="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/King-Penguins-in-the-Falkland-Islands.jpg 690w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/King-Penguins-in-the-Falkland-Islands-300x191.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 690px) 100vw, 690px"></a><figcaption class="wp-caption-text">King Penguins in the Falkland Islands</figcaption></figure>
<h3><b>WHEN TO SEE PENGUINS IN ANTARCTICA</b></h3>
<p>Because of their location in the extreme southern part of the planet, the climate of Antarctica and the Antarctic Islands are relatively inhospitable to humans for the vast majority of the year.</p>
<p>But summer in the Southern Hemisphere, which lasts from December through March, finds daily high temperatures soaring into the 40s (and occasionally even the 50s).</p>
<p>The region gets almost 24 continuous hours of daylight during this time, allowing plenty of time to explore the highlights of Antarctica.</p>
<p>The melting away of coastal ice makes shore landings considerably easier. It’s also a great time to see baby penguin chicks at their fuzziest, snuggling against their mom to sleep or feasting on regurgitated tidbits from her gullet.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>Cruising Antarctica, South Georgia & the Falkland Islands allows you to see Gentoo, Magellanic, and Rockhopper Penguins in the Falklands; King and Macaroni Penguins in South Georgia; a massive Chinstrap Penguin colony on Elephant Island; and Adelie, Chinstrap, and Gentoo Penguins on the Antarctic Peninsula.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>Of course, there will also be plenty of other <strong><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wildlife-researchers-australia-vacations/">Antarctic wildlife</a> </strong>along the way, from Humpback Whales and Orcas and numerous species of seals to seabirds such as albatross, kelp gulls, giant petrels, skuas, and more.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p><em><strong>READ MORE: </strong></em><strong><a class="row-title" href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/antarctic-animals-on-antarctica-cruise/" aria-label="“30 Antarctic Animals You Can See on an Antarctica Cruise” (Edit)">30 Antarctic Animals You Can See on an Antarctica Cruise</a></strong></p>
<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-41734" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/where-penguins-live/fairy-penguin-or-little-penguin/" rel="attachment wp-att-41734"><img decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-41734" src="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Fairy-Penguin-or-Little-Penguin.jpg" alt="Fairy Penguin or Little Penguin" width="690" height="440" srcset="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Fairy-Penguin-or-Little-Penguin.jpg 690w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Fairy-Penguin-or-Little-Penguin-300x191.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 690px) 100vw, 690px"></a><figcaption class="wp-caption-text">Fairy Penguin or Little Penguin</figcaption></figure>
<h2><b>2. AUSTRALIA/NEW ZEALAND</b></h2>
<p>Once you get away from Antarctica, most of the places where penguins live are rocky islands and dry, <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/worlds-largest-deserts-world-travel-bucket-list/"><strong><span>desert</span></strong></a>-like environments where their inability to fly doesn’t make them vulnerable to land-based predators.</p>
<p>Though most people think of <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/australian-national-parks/"><strong><span>Australia</span></strong></a> as dry and dusty, it’s also home to the Little Penguin, which is affectionately known locally as the Fairy Penguin due to its diminutive size.</p>
<p>These adorable beauties can be found across the continent’s southern coast, including Sydney’s North Harbour, <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/tasmanian-devils-endangered-species-spotlight/"><strong><span>Tasmania</span></strong></a>, Victoria, and countless nearby islands (including, naturally, Penguin Island).</p>
<p>In <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/ecotourism-attractions-in-new-zealand/"><strong><span>New Zealand</span></strong></a>, they’re called Little Blue Penguins (or <i>kororā</i> among the <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/polynesian-culture-food-music-history-more/"><strong><span>Māori people</span></strong></a>).</p>
<p>New Zealand is also home to the Yellow-Eyed Penguin (mainland, Auckland, Campbell, and Stewart Islands); Fiordland Penguin (Open Bay, South, and Stewart Islands); and Snares Penguin (a crested species found only in the Snares Islands).</p>
<p>Royal Penguins– which have the colorful crest of a Macaroni Penguin, but a white face and chin– inhabit the waters all around Antarctica.</p>
<p>But they generally only breed on New Zealand’s sub-Antarctic Macquarie Island, where you’ll find several hundred thousand mating pairs.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p><em><strong>READ MORE: </strong></em><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/weird-cute-australian-animals/"><strong>20 Weird & Cute Australian Animals</strong></a></p>
<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-41737" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/where-penguins-live/yellow-eyed-penguin/" rel="attachment wp-att-41737"><img decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-41737" src="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Yellow-Eyed-Penguin.jpg" alt="Yellow-Eyed Penguin" width="690" height="440" srcset="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Yellow-Eyed-Penguin.jpg 690w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Yellow-Eyed-Penguin-300x191.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 690px) 100vw, 690px"></a><figcaption class="wp-caption-text">Yellow-Eyed Penguin</figcaption></figure>
<h3><b>WHEN TO SEE PENGUINS IN NEW ZEALAND</b></h3>
<p>The southern coast of New Zealand’s South Island may not be as cold as Antarctica, but temperatures can get as low as 14º Fahrenheit in winter (July is the coldest month).</p>
<p>So it’s best if you can plan your visit in January or February, the warmest months in the southern hemisphere. The average temperature then is around 48º, with highs often reaching into the 60s.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>When you’re packing, remember <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/new-zealand-sea-lion-conservation-comeback/"><strong><span>New Zealand</span></strong></a> can have four seasons in one day. Though temperature variations during the day aren’t typically extreme, the weather can change quickly with cold fronts or high winds blowing in.</p>
<p>Expeditions to the Sub-Antarctic Islands of New Zealand often explore South Island highlights such as Fiordland National Park as well as the Aucklands, Campbell, Macquarie, the Snares, Stewart, and more.</p>
<p>Travelers can hope to see colonies of Gengtoo, King, Rockhopper, and Royal Penguins, as well as endemic species such as Snares and Yellow-eyed Penguins.</p>
<p><em><strong>READ MORE: </strong></em><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/australian-road-trips/"><strong>10 Awesome Australian Road Trips (For Your World Travel Bucket List)</strong></a></p>
<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-41736" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/where-penguins-live/southern-rockhopper-penguin/" rel="attachment wp-att-41736"><img decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-41736" src="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Southern-Rockhopper-Penguin.jpg" alt="Southern Rockhopper Penguin" width="690" height="440" srcset="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Southern-Rockhopper-Penguin.jpg 690w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Southern-Rockhopper-Penguin-300x191.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 690px) 100vw, 690px"></a><figcaption class="wp-caption-text">Southern Rockhopper Penguin</figcaption></figure>
<h2><b>3. ARGENTINA/CHILE</b></h2>
<p>The southernmost countries in South America– a.k.a. <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/things-to-do-in-patagonia-south-america/"><strong><span>Patagonia</span></strong></a>– are home to four different penguin species.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>Humboldt Penguins (a.k.a. Peruvian Penguins) are found on the continent’s west side, from Chile all the way up to the coast of Peru.<span class="Apple-converted-space">  </span>They’re named after the cold water current in which they swim (which was named for explorer Alexander von Humboldt).</p>
<p>You can<span class="Apple-converted-space">  </span>identify them by the white border that runs from behind their eyes and around their ear-coverts, joining at the throat. They’re closely related to Magellanic Penguins, with whom they share some range.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>Named after the famous Portuguese explorer, Magellanic Penguins have a massive range that extends from southern <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/atacama-desert-chile-driest-place-on-earth/"><strong><span>Chile</span></strong></a> and <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/the-end-of-the-world-ushuaia-argentina/"><strong><span>Argentina</span></strong></a> to the Falkland Islands and as far north as Rio de Janeiro, <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/shark-week-recife-brazil/"><strong><span>Brazil</span></strong></a>.</p>
<p>You may spot them swimming in large flocks, diving up to 50 meters to feed on cuttlefish, squid, krill, and other crustaceans. You’ll also like see vast breeding colonies, with nests about 5 meters apart under bushes or in burrows.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>The Southern Rockhopper Penguin, one of two Rockhopper subspecies, is the smallest of the crested penguins. They’re typically found on the islands off the coasts of Argentina and Chile as well as the Falklands.</p>
<p>(Their Eastern Rockhopper cousins are found on the subantarctic islands, including the Aucklands, Campbells, Crozets, Prince Edward, and Macquarie.)</p>
<p>The King Penguin is most commonly associated with the sub-Antarctic islands. But there’s also an impressive colony in Tierra del Fuego, where they have their own protected sanctuary (Pingüino Rey Park).<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p><em><strong>READ MORE: </strong></em><strong><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/things-to-do-in-patagonia-south-america/">The 20 Best Things to Do in Patagonia (South America)</a></strong></p>
<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-41735" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/where-penguins-live/magellanic-penguins-2/" rel="attachment wp-att-41735"><img decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-41735" src="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Magellanic-Penguins.jpg" alt="Magellanic Penguins" width="690" height="440" srcset="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Magellanic-Penguins.jpg 690w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Magellanic-Penguins-300x191.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 690px) 100vw, 690px"></a><figcaption class="wp-caption-text">Magellanic Penguins in Patagonia Argentina</figcaption></figure>
<h3><b>WHEN TO SEE PENGUINS IN PATAGONIA</b></h3>
<p>As with Antarctica and <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/australian-wildlife-encounters/"><strong>Australia</strong></a>, summer (December through March) is arguably the best time to visit Argentina and Chile.</p>
<p>It can still get down to freezing temperatures at night, but days are mostly sunny with occasional gusts of strong wind. The further north you go into <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/planning-patagonia-trip/"><strong><span>Patagonia</span></strong></a>, the warmer it usually is in the spring and autumn months.</p>
<p>Some <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/what-is-ecotourism-history-principles-of-responsible-travel/"><strong><span>eco-tour</span></strong></a> companies offer Patagonia expeditions that visit <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/torres-del-paine-national-park-chile/"><strong><span>Torres del Paine National Park</span></strong></a>, Tierra del Fuego, and cross the Strait of Magellan. You’ll likely see a King Penguin colony, a Magellanic Penguin colony, and countless other <a href="https://blueridgemountainstravelguide.com/birds-of-tennessee/">bird species</a> along the way.</p>
<p>Immersive Patagonia overlanding experiences may also include visits to the accessible King Penguin colony at Parque Pinguino Rey, as well as a boat ride to the famous Magellanic Penguin rookery on Magdalena Island.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p><em><strong>READ MORE: </strong></em><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/best-places-to-visit-in-south-america/"><strong>The 20 Best Places to Visit in South America</strong></a></p>
<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-18127" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/swimming-with-galapagos-penguins-video/swimming-with-galapagos-penguins/" rel="attachment wp-att-18127"><img decoding="async" class="wp-image-18127" src="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/Swimming-with-Galapagos-Penguins.jpg" alt="Bret Love of Green Global Travel Swimming with Galapagos Penguins" width="690" height="531" srcset="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/Swimming-with-Galapagos-Penguins.jpg 905w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/Swimming-with-Galapagos-Penguins-300x231.jpg 300w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/Swimming-with-Galapagos-Penguins-768x591.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 690px) 100vw, 690px"></a><figcaption class="wp-caption-text">Bret Love of Green Global Travel Swimming with Galapagos Penguins</figcaption></figure>
<h2><b>4. GALAPAGOS ISLANDS</b></h2>
<p>Located some 850 miles from mainland <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/otavalo-ecuador-indigenous-andean-roots/"><strong><span>Ecuador</span></strong></a>, the <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/facts-about-the-galapagos-islands/"><strong><span>Galapagos Islands</span></strong></a> is one of the only places in the world where travelers have a fairly decent chance to swim with penguins.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>Though they’re the most rare and endangered penguin species on the planet, you’re virtually guaranteed to see Galapagos Penguins on the western islands of <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/galapagos-islands-genovesa-island-fernandina-island/"><strong><span>Fernandina</span></strong></a> and Isabela (especially around Tagus Cove).</p>
<p>But you may also see small populations on Floreana, northern <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/galapagos-santa-cruz-island-espanola-island/"><strong><span>Santa Cruz</span></strong></a>, and <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/galapagos-islands-isabela-island-santiago-island/"><strong><span>Santiago Island</span></strong></a>. You’ll usually see them sunning themselves on the shore, or shooting like rockets underwater in search of a snack.</p>
<p>My favorite encounter came during a cruise off the coast of <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/galapagos-north-seymour-island-bartolome-island/"><strong><span>Bartolome</span></strong></a>, which is home to Pinnacle Rock. A pair of curious penguins hopped into the water beside our group of snorkelers, and swam with us for 20+ minutes!</p>
<p>If you do get an opportunity to go <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/swimming-with-galapagos-penguins-video/"><strong><span>swimming with Galapagos Penguins</span></strong></a> during your visit to the islands, you’re VERY lucky: Our local guide said it had only happened to her once in 17 years of working in the archipelago!</p>
<p><em><strong>READ MORE: </strong></em><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/galapagos-islands-animals-photo-gallery/"><strong>30 Amazing Galapagos Islands Animals</strong></a></p>
<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-18107" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/swimming-with-galapagos-penguins-video/galapagos-penguin/" rel="attachment wp-att-18107"><img decoding="async" class="wp-image-18107" src="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/Galapagos-Penguin-1024x683.jpg" alt="Galapagos Penguin Cooling Himself in the Midday Sun" width="690" height="460" srcset="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/Galapagos-Penguin-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/Galapagos-Penguin-300x200.jpg 300w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/Galapagos-Penguin-768x512.jpg 768w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/Galapagos-Penguin-600x400.jpg 600w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/Galapagos-Penguin.jpg 1350w" sizes="(max-width: 690px) 100vw, 690px"></a><figcaption class="wp-caption-text">Galapagos Penguin Cooling Himself in the Midday Sun by Bret Love & Mary Gabbett</figcaption></figure>
<h3><b>WHEN TO SEE PENGUINS IN THE GALAPAGOS</b></h3>
<p>Of all the places in the world where travelers can hope to see penguins in the wild, the Galapagos Islands is the one where weather considerations are not a major factor.</p>
<p>Due to its location on the Equator, the archipelago is fairly warm all year round, with high temperatures in the 70s to 80s and lows rarely dipping below 65º.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>But if you want to swim with Galapagos Penguins, consider the water temperatures. They’re at their lowest– averaging 70-71º– from July through September, with an average of 76 to 77º from January through April.</p>
<p>But even when the water is cool, most snorkeling tours come with insulated wetsuits to ensure your comfort.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>Many tours of the archipelago Darwin made famous include daily snorkeling opportunities. And with stops at Isabela, Fernandina, and Bartolome, you’re virtually guaranteed to see the world’s rarest penguins!</p>
<p><strong><em>READ MORE: </em><a class="row-title" href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/galapagos-birds-galapagos-cruise/" aria-label="“Secrets to Swimming With Galapagos Penguins” (Edit)">Galapagos Birds: 25 Spectacular Species You Can See on a Galapagos Cruise</a></strong></p>
<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-41733" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/where-penguins-live/african-penguins/" rel="attachment wp-att-41733"><img decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-41733" src="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/African-Penguins.jpg" alt="African Penguins" width="690" height="440" srcset="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/African-Penguins.jpg 690w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/African-Penguins-300x191.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 690px) 100vw, 690px"></a><figcaption class="wp-caption-text">African Penguins in South Africa</figcaption></figure>
<h2><b>5. SOUTH AFRICA</b></h2>
<p>When most people think of South Africa, they tend to think of <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/ladysmith-black-mambazo-on-nelson-mandela-graceland-50-years-as-south-africas-cultural-ambassadors/"><strong><span>Nelson Mandela</span></strong></a>, <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/the-25-best-national-parks-in-africa-for-wildlife-safaris/"><strong><span>Big 5 wildlife safaris</span></strong></a>, and the scenic wine country around Cape Town.</p>
<p>But the country’s coastlines are also home to the African Penguin, which has become increasingly popular with tourists in recent years.</p>
<p>Their habitat spreads all the way around the southern coast from Algoa Bay, near Port Elizabeth, up to northern <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/national-parks-in-namibia/"><strong><span>Namibia</span></strong></a>, with colonies on both the mainland and 24 different islands (including the Penguin Islands).</p>
<p>Boulders Beach, near Simon Town, is one of the best places to see them. And because the colony is habituated to human presence, it is also possible to swim with penguins there.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>Sadly, like its Galapagos cousin, the African Penguin is currently endangered due to exploitation, oil spills, and depletion of their favorite prey, anchovy and sardines.</p>
<p>Their total population is down from 1.5 million in the early 20th century to just over 50,000 today. So, if you do see these penguins in the wild, please be respectful and keep your distance from their nests.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p><em><strong>READ MORE: </strong></em><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/safest-countries-in-africa-to-visit/"><strong>The 20 Safest Countries in Africa to Visit</strong></a></p>
<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-41739" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/where-penguins-live/where-do-penguins-live-guide/" rel="attachment wp-att-41739"><img decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-41739" src="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Where-Do-Penguins-Live-Guide.jpg" alt="" width="690" height="440" srcset="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Where-Do-Penguins-Live-Guide.jpg 690w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Where-Do-Penguins-Live-Guide-300x191.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 690px) 100vw, 690px"></a><figcaption class="wp-caption-text">African Penguin at sunset</figcaption></figure>
<h3><b>WHEN TO SEE PENGUINS IN SOUTH AFRICA </b></h3>
<p>Much like the Galapagos, <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/things-to-do-in-uganda-the-pearl-of-africa/"><strong>South</strong> <strong>Africa’s</strong></a> weather is generally good no matter what time of year you choose to visit.</p>
<p>Temperatures in <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/kruger-national-park-entrance-fee/"><strong><span>Kruger National Park</span></strong></a> during the dry season (April to September) range from the high 40s<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>at night to the mid-80s during the day. But June is the coldest month in Cape Town, with average temperatures of 55º.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>If you want a chance of swimming with African Penguins on the country’s southwest coast, visit in February (the hottest month, with an average temperature of 73°) or late August/September, when highs are in the low 70s.</p>
<p>Some South African eco-tours take visitors all across the continent’s southernmost country, from Cape Town east to Tswalu Kalahari Game Reserve and the traditional safari experience of <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/african-photo-safaris-amboseli-national-park-timbavati-game-reserve/"><strong><span>Timbavati Game Reserve</span></strong></a>.</p>
<p>Look for one that includes a visit to the African Penguin colony at Stoney Point, as well as the “oceanic Big 5” at Walker Bay in Gansbaai. <b><i>–Bret Love<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></i></b></p>

<a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/where-penguins-live/where-do-penguins-live/"><img width="1000" height="1500" src="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Where-do-Penguins-Live.jpg" class="attachment-full size-full" alt="5 Places Where Penguins Live and Best Times to See Them There including info on types of penguins and specific islands where you can find them. | where do penguins live | where are penguins found | are penguins endangered | penguins live where | where live penguins | where do emperor penguins live | penguins live in | do penguins live in antarctica | are there penguins in antarctica | where are penguins |where does penguins live | are there penguins in africa | are there penguins in australia" decoding="async" srcset="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Where-do-Penguins-Live.jpg 1000w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Where-do-Penguins-Live-200x300.jpg 200w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Where-do-Penguins-Live-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Where-do-Penguins-Live-768x1152.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px"></a>
<a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/where-penguins-live/where-are-penguins-found/"><img width="1000" height="1500" src="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/where-are-penguins-found.jpg" class="attachment-full size-full" alt="5 Places Where Penguins Live and Best Times to See Them There including info on types of penguins and specific islands where you can find them. | where do penguins live | where are penguins found | are penguins endangered | penguins live where | where live penguins | where do emperor penguins live | penguins live in | do penguins live in antarctica | are there penguins in antarctica | where are penguins |where does penguins live | are there penguins in africa | are there penguins in australia" decoding="async" srcset="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/where-are-penguins-found.jpg 1000w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/where-are-penguins-found-200x300.jpg 200w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/where-are-penguins-found-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/where-are-penguins-found-768x1152.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px"></a>

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<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/where-penguins-live/">5 Places Where Penguins Live (& Best Times to See Them There)</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/">Green Global Travel</a>.</p>]]> </content:encoded>
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<title>The Oberammergau Passion Play in Bavarian Germany</title>
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<description><![CDATA[ Original content owned &amp; copyrighted by Green Global Travel.
The life and death of Jesus Christ– the religious leader said to be born of a virgin, who performed miracles throughout his life, and whom the Romans crucified for his beliefs story has been performed since 1634 as the Oberammergau Passion Play.  Jesus of Nazareth became the central figure of Christianity, in which he’s believed to Keep Reading
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<pubDate>Tue, 31 Oct 2023 00:12:13 +0000</pubDate>
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<media:keywords>The, Oberammergau, Passion, Play, Bavarian, Germany</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Original content owned & copyrighted by Green Global Travel.</p>
<p>The life and death of Jesus Christ– the religious leader said to be born of a virgin, who performed miracles throughout his life, and whom the Romans crucified for his beliefs story has been performed since 1634 as the Oberammergau Passion Play.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>Jesus of Nazareth became the central figure of Christianity, in which he’s believed to have been the long-awaited Messiah (Christ) that the Old Testament had prophesied.</p>
<p>After his tragic, untimely death, his spiritually driven life inspired four gospels written by his apostles and defined many of Christianity’s central doctrines and teachings.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>Nearly 2000 years after his crucifixion, the story of Jesus Christ continues to be re-enacted around the <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/easter-origins-10-things-wikipedia-wont-tell-you/"><span><strong>Easter</strong></span></a> holiday every year, all across the Christian world.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>But once every 10 years in a small Bavarian town, a <a href="https://www.passionsspiele-oberammergau.de/en/home">truly unique event</a> occurs: An entire German village of over 2,000 people takes to the stage.</p>
<p>It’s known as the Oberammergau Passion Play, and the massive production has become world renowned, drawing over half a million people who travel to see the biggest, most elaborate passion play in the world.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p><em><strong>READ MORE: </strong></em><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/german-christmas-cookies-lebkuchen-recipe-gingerbread/"><strong>German Christmas Cookies- Lebkuchen Recipe (aka German Gingerbread)</strong></a></p>
<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-41596" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/oberammergau-passion-play-bavarian-germany/old-town-oberammergau/" rel="attachment wp-att-41596"><img decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-41596" src="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Old-Town-Oberammergau.jpg" alt="Old Town Oberammergau Germany" width="690" height="440" srcset="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Old-Town-Oberammergau.jpg 690w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Old-Town-Oberammergau-300x191.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 690px) 100vw, 690px"></a><figcaption class="wp-caption-text">Old Town Oberammergau</figcaption></figure>
<h2>Oberammergau Passion Play Guide</h2>
<ul>
<li><strong>The Passion of Jesus Christ</strong></li>
<li><strong>The Crucifixion </strong></li>
<li><strong>The Passion Play In Oberammergau Germany</strong></li>
<li><strong>The History Of The Oberammergau Passion Play</strong></li>
<li><strong>Oberammergau Passion Play History</strong></li>
<li><strong>Things To Do in Oberammergau, Germany</strong></li>
</ul>
<p><em><strong>READ MORE: </strong></em><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/best-cultural-festivals-around-the-world/"><strong>The 20 Best Cultural Festivals Around the World</strong></a></p>
<p><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/oberammergau-passion-play-bavarian-germany/the-passion-of-jesus-christ/" rel="attachment wp-att-41592"><img decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-41592" src="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/THE-PASSION-OF-JESUS-CHRIST.jpg" alt="passion play in oberammergau" width="690" height="440" srcset="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/THE-PASSION-OF-JESUS-CHRIST.jpg 690w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/THE-PASSION-OF-JESUS-CHRIST-300x191.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 690px) 100vw, 690px"></a></p>
<h3><b>THE PASSION OF JESUS CHRIST</b></h3>
<p><a href="https://www.catholiceducation.org/en/culture/catholic-contributions/the-passion-of-jesus-christ.html">The Passion of Jesus Christ</a> refers to the final period of his life, from the moment when he triumphantly entered Jerusalem to cheering crowds on Palm Sunday up until his crucifixion on Mount Calvary.</p>
<p>In this case, the term <i>passion</i> refers to an account of the physical suffering and death of a Christian martyr (from the Latin <i>passio, </i>which means “to endure” or “to suffer”).<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>Christ’s passion is considered among Christians to be <i>the </i>passion, and centers around the climatic event of his suffering on the cross, culminating in his ultimate sacrifice and salvation.</p>
<p>Passion plays are reenactments of important life events, and the Passion of Jesus has been brought to life in many forms of art throughout history.</p>
<p>You can see it portrayed in ancient frescoes, in stained glass windows, and inspiring books and films (including Mel Gibson’s controversial 2004 biblical drama, which graphically portrayed the violent brutality of Christ’s suffering).<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>The Passion of Christ as we know it today has been taken from accounts recorded in the Bible’s books of Matthew (26:36–27:56), Mark (14:32–15:41), Luke (22:39–23:49), and John (18:1–19:37).</p>
<p>Collectively, it tells the story of Jesus’ arrest, trial, suffering, and death. It does not typically include the details of his resurrection.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>The story begins the night prior to his crucifixion and covers events such as his agony in the Garden of Gethsemane, his betrayal by Judas Iscariot, abandonment and denial by his disciples, and his arrest by the Sanhedrin priests.</p>
<p>It also covers his trials: The Gospels record that seven different trials took place at the hands of the Roman and Jewish authorities who ruled Israel at the time, though the most famous was his ultimate trial before Pontius Pilate.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p><em><strong>READ MORE: </strong></em><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/symbols-of-christmas-history-meaning/"><strong>30 Symbols of Christmas: The History & Meaning of Traditional Christmas Decorations</strong></a></p>
<p><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/oberammergau-passion-play-bavarian-germany/the-crucifixion-of-jesus-christ/" rel="attachment wp-att-41593"><br>
<img decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-41593" src="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/THE-CRUCIFIXION-of-Jesus-Christ.jpg" alt="Oberammergau Germany passion play" width="690" height="440" srcset="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/THE-CRUCIFIXION-of-Jesus-Christ.jpg 690w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/THE-CRUCIFIXION-of-Jesus-Christ-300x191.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 690px) 100vw, 690px"></a></p>
<h3>THE CRUCIFIXION </h3>
<p>The final part of the Oberammergau Passion Play is arguably the most difficult to watch, as it portrays the increasingly violent beatings Jesus received, and his final hours spent nailed on the cross.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.biblicalarchaeology.org/daily/biblical-topics/crucifixion/roman-crucifixion-methods-reveal-the-history-of-crucifixion/">Roman crucifixion</a> at the time involved three nails, with one driven into each hand (or wrist), and one through both ankles as a way to secure the person’s feet. While Jesus hung from the cross, Roman soldiers pierced his sides.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>This passion narrative is commemorated around the world during Holy Week– the week before Easter, starting on Palm Sunday– which is the most solemn week of the year for Christians.</p>
<p>Countless churches, schools, and communities remember the passion, death, and resurrection.</p>
<p>On Good Friday, people flood into Catholic churches to participate in liturgy, listen to scripture, join street processions, and come together in prayer and hymn to honor Christ’s sacrifice for our sins.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>Holy week traditions take place annually all around the globe, and many feature performances of Christ’s passion.</p>
<p>But the Bavarian town of Oberammergau Germany has a truly unique tradition, and once every ten years hosts the largest known (and longest-running) passion play in the world.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p><em><strong>READ MORE: </strong></em><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/fun-christmas-eve-traditions-around-the-world/"><strong>25 Christmas Eve Traditions Around the World</strong></a></p>
<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-41591" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/oberammergau-passion-play-bavarian-germany/passion-play-oberammergau-germany-stage/" rel="attachment wp-att-41591"><img decoding="async" class="wp-image-41591 size-full" src="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Passion-Play-Oberammergau-Germany-stage.jpg" alt="Passion Play Oberammergau stage courtesy of Passion Play Oberammergau" width="690" height="263" srcset="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Passion-Play-Oberammergau-Germany-stage.jpg 690w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Passion-Play-Oberammergau-Germany-stage-300x114.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 690px) 100vw, 690px"></a><figcaption class="wp-caption-text">Passion Play Oberammergau stage photo by Kienberger courtesy of Passion Play Oberammergau</figcaption></figure>
<h3><b>THE PASSION PLAY IN OBERAMMERGAU GERMANY</b></h3>
<p>Taking place just once every decade, the Oberammergau Passion Play is the largest amateur stage production in the world. Only residents of Oberammergau, Germany are allowed to take part, or people who were born and raised there.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>Around 2,000 locals (including 450 children) participate in bringing Christ’s story to life, which is almost half the total population of the town!</p>
<p>The production takes place in an open-air setting over the course of eight hours (from 2:30 PM to 10:30 PM, with a 3-hour break for dinner), and is a massive event that attracts more than 500,000 visitors to Oberammergau.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>This play is performed more than 100 times over the course of five months, from May to October, and recounts the last five days of Jesus’ life.</p>
<p>All members of the cast are fully committed to their characters and dedicated to achieving authenticity. The entire cast stops shaving and cutting their hair months in advance (even local police are excused from clean-shaven regulations).</p>
<p>The passion play has taken place in Oberammergau every decade for the last 400 years, and participants dedicate a full year of their lives to preparing for the production. </p>
<p>From the main speaking parts to the production team and extras, the cast members are all ordinary people. But you won’t be able to tell they’re amateurs: The production is so realistic, it’s easy to forget you’re watching a play.</p>
<p>Its original script was based on four manuscripts from the 15th and 16th centuries, though it has been adapted and modernized a bit over the decades.</p>
<p>The play you see today combines dramatic dialogue, choral music, and <i>tableaux vivants</i>– static scenes from the Old Testament recreated by motionless actors (the word is <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/weird-foods-the-french-consider-delicacies/"><strong><span>French</span></strong></a> for “living picture”) while being narrated.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p><em><strong>READ MORE: </strong></em><strong><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/christmas-traditions-around-the-world/">90 Christmas Traditions Around the World</a></strong></p>
<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-41594" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/oberammergau-passion-play-bavarian-germany/cemetary-in-oberammergau-germany/" rel="attachment wp-att-41594"><img decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-41594" src="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Cemetary-in-Oberammergau-Germany.jpg" alt="Cemetary in Oberammergau Germany" width="690" height="440" srcset="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Cemetary-in-Oberammergau-Germany.jpg 690w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Cemetary-in-Oberammergau-Germany-300x191.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 690px) 100vw, 690px"></a><figcaption class="wp-caption-text">Cemetary in Oberammergau Germany</figcaption></figure>
<h3><b>OBERAMMERGAU PASSION PLAY HISTORY</b></h3>
<p>Oberammergau Passion Play history dates back to 1634, when the town’s first known production was mounted.</p>
<p>From 1618 to 1648 the Thirty Years War ravaged central <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/best-places-to-spend-christmas-in-europe/"><strong><span>Europe</span></strong></a>. There was widespread poverty, sickness, and starvation, and hundreds of thousands of people died as the result of Bubonic Plague.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>Desperate to ease their suffering, the people of Oberammergau made a solemn vow in 1633 that they would stage a play every 10 years to commemorate the passion of Christ if God would save them from the plague.</p>
<p>Legend has it that shortly after this vow was made, the local death rate sharply declined. Those who were already afflicted quickly recovered, and there were no further cases of the plague reported.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>Believing they’d been spared, the townspeople kept their promise: During Pentecost in 1634, they staged the first passion play on the graves of those who had fallen victim to the plague.</p>
<p>Their pledge to continue producing the play once every decade has been kept, with few exceptions (including a cancellation in 1940 due to WWII, and a postponement of the 2020 schedule due to COVID).</p>
<p>But the venue and script has evolved over the years, and a state-of-the-art theatre capable of seating 4,700 people now houses the production.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>The Passion continually evolves to reflect the times. Christian attitudes towards Jewish people during the Nazi era saw anti-semitic themes introduced, with the Jews blamed for the death of Christ. But the script has since been revised.</p>
<p>In 2000, the 41st production of the play saw the greatest revision of the script since 1860, with nearly 2,000 new costumes and 28 new production designs.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>This also marked a new era of inclusivity in terms of casting.</p>
<p>Up until that point, only Christian citizens of Oberammergau had been permitted to take part. But in 2000 this regulation was revoked to allow Muslim residents to participate.</p>
<p>In 2010 the play was re-scripted once again, and new compositions were created to involve music as a more fundamental part of the performance.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>The show was also extended into the evening, and a new movable stage roof introduced (the stage itself is still open air, but seats are now under a roof cover in case of rain). </p>
<p>It is likely that the passion of Christ was acted out before the 1600s, even in Oberammergau Germany.</p>
<p>Pastor Joseph A Daisenberger writes in his village chronicles that the community’s pledge “didn’t intend to introduce a new, formerly unfamiliar custom, but to preserve an age-old custom for all eternity by promising to perform it regularly.”<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>Preserving the history of the Oberammergau Passion Play is clearly a major point of pride for the community, and roles often run in the family.</p>
<p>Some local families are able to trace their ancestors’ participation back for centuries, and it is not uncommon for up to four generations to take part in a production at any one time!</p>
<p><em><strong>READ MORE: </strong></em><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/celebrate-new-year-traditions-around-the-world/"><strong>50 Ways to Celebrate New Year Traditions Around the World</strong></a></p>
<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-41595" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/oberammergau-passion-play-bavarian-germany/rotkappchenhaus-with-luftlmalerei-painting-in-oberammergau/" rel="attachment wp-att-41595"><img decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-41595" src="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Rotkappchenhaus-with-Luftlmalerei-Painting-in-Oberammergau.jpg" alt="Rotkappchenhaus with Luftlmalerei Painting (Little Red Riding Hood house) in Oberammergau Germany" width="690" height="440" srcset="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Rotkappchenhaus-with-Luftlmalerei-Painting-in-Oberammergau.jpg 690w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Rotkappchenhaus-with-Luftlmalerei-Painting-in-Oberammergau-300x191.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 690px) 100vw, 690px"></a><figcaption class="wp-caption-text">Rotkappchenhaus with Luftlmalerei Painting (Little Red Riding Hood house) in Oberammergau</figcaption></figure>
<h3><b>THINGS TO DO IN OBERAMMERGAU, GERMANY</b></h3>
<p>Oberammergau is a charming Bavarian town nestled in the breathtaking mountain landscapes of the Bavarian Alps. And while the passion play is the biggest feather in the area’s cap, there are plenty of other things to do in Oberammergau Germany.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>For travelers interested in nature, the village sprawls along the Ammer River Valley, which offers scenic hikes and challenging climbing opportunities.</p>
<p>There are around 150 different <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/best-hiking-trails/"><span><strong>hiking trails</strong></span></a> throughout Oberammergau, but one of the most popular is the trail to the summit of Kofel, one of the town’s most prominent landmarks.</p>
<p>The round-trip hike only takes about 90 minutes, but this is a rocky peak that is quite steep and does require good <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/womens-hiking-running-walking-shoes/"><strong><span>hiking shoes</span></strong></a>. Alternatively, you can take a chairlift that carries you directly to the picturesque summit.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>Truly adventurous type will enjoy taking the <a href="https://kolbensattel.de/en/alpine-coaster">Alpine Coaster</a> at the Kolbensattel. With breathtaking views of the valley and white-knuckle curves, this is one of the world’s largest toboggan runs.</p>
<p>The 1.6-mile steel track snakes around 73 bends at speeds of up to 25 mph, and includes a 1,300 foot drop. The track starts at 1,258 meters, and at its highest point you’ll be 4 meters above the ground.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>Oberammergau also has a long history of traditional arts and crafts, and is celebrated for its traditional woodcarvings, intricate frescoes, and façade paintings.</p>
<p>Bavarian themes (such as fairytales) and biblical scenes are painted on many buildings, a tradition that began about two centuries before street art started becoming a trend elsewhere. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>Taking a walk down local streets and through neighborhoods feels like stepping into a storybook. Referred to as <i>Luftlmalerei </i>in German, the buildings are covered in stories and characters painted in bright lively colors.</p>
<p>Local churches typically have the finest displays of woodcarving worked into their décor. Religious sites worth noting include the Ettal Monastery and the <a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/top-unesco-world-heritage-sites-in-the-world/"><strong><span>UNESCO World Heritage</span></strong></a>-listed Wieskirche pilgrimage church, which is located about 30 minutes outside of Oberammergau.</p>
<p>If you find yourself visiting the town when the passion play isn’t running, you can still take a tour of the theatre and explore museum exhibits that tell the story of each performance since 1634.</p>
<p>Costumes and props that have appeared in previous plays are on display, and you can also catch historic films of previous productions. Tours are held in German every day at 2 PM and 4 PM, and there’s a daily tour in English at 11 AM. <b><i>–by Meg Jerrard</i></b></p>
<p><b>BIO:</b> <i>Megan Jerrard is an Australian journalist and the founder of </i><a href="https://www.mappingmegan.com/"><b><i>Mapping Megan</i></b></a><i>, an award-winning travel blog bringing you the latest in adventure travel from all over the globe.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></i></p>

<a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/oberammergau-passion-play-bavarian-germany/passion-play-oberammergau-2/"><img width="1000" height="1500" src="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/passion-play-oberammergau-1.jpg" class="attachment-full size-full" alt="The Oberammergau Passion Play in Bavarian Germany including info about the play, history and things to do in Oberammergau Germany. | berammergau passion play | passion play oberammergau | best month to see oberammergau passion play | oberammergau passion play history | oberammergau germany passion play | passion play germany oberammergau | passion play in oberammergau germany | passion play theatre oberammergau |" decoding="async" srcset="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/passion-play-oberammergau-1.jpg 1000w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/passion-play-oberammergau-1-200x300.jpg 200w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/passion-play-oberammergau-1-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/passion-play-oberammergau-1-768x1152.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px"></a>
<a href="https://greenglobaltravel.com/oberammergau-passion-play-bavarian-germany/oberammergau-passion-play-history/"><img width="1000" height="1500" src="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/oberammergau-passion-play-history.jpg" class="attachment-full size-full" alt="The Oberammergau Passion Play in Bavarian Germany including info about the play, history and things to do in Oberammergau Germany. | berammergau passion play | passion play oberammergau | best month to see oberammergau passion play | oberammergau passion play history | oberammergau germany passion play | passion play germany oberammergau | passion play in oberammergau germany | passion play theatre oberammergau |" decoding="async" srcset="https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/oberammergau-passion-play-history.jpg 1000w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/oberammergau-passion-play-history-200x300.jpg 200w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/oberammergau-passion-play-history-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://greenglobaltravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/oberammergau-passion-play-history-768x1152.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px"></a>

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