Antarctica is seeing a surge in tourists, and scientists are raising concerns about the risks that come with more visitors to one of the world’s most fragile environments.
In 2024, more than 80,000 tourists set foot on the icy continent, with another 36,000 viewing it from ships. Experts estimate that number could triple or quadruple over the next decade, potentially reaching 400,000 visits a year. This is as more ice-capable ships enter service and costs come down.
Many visitors are drawn by “last chance tourism” – wanting to see Antarctica’s glaciers, penguins, whales and icebergs before climate change alters them forever. NASA data shows the continent has been losing around 149 billion metric tonnes of ice per year since 2002.
But the growing numbers are raising serious concerns. A recent outbreak of hantavirus on board the Dutch cruise ship MV Hondius, which visited Antarctica in April, has put a spotlight on the health risks of polar travel.
Disease isn’t the only worry. Scientists are concerned that tourists could accidentally bring in invasive species – even tiny seeds, insects or microbes trapped in the laces of their boots.
Strict rules are already in place. Visitors must vacuum and scrub their shoes and gear before going ashore, stay away from wildlife, and avoid touching the ground unnecessarily.
However, some experts say the Antarctic Treaty needs to be updated to better reflect today’s tourism levels. “Activity needs to be regulated appropriately, as you would with any of the world’s sensitive and precious ecological sites,” said Claire Christian of the Antarctic and Southern Ocean Coalition.
